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production include the quantity of calcite present, and the reactivity of the pyrite. <br /> In conclusion, the paste-pfl test, conducted under oxidizing conditions, indicates <br /> that only a small proportion of the overburden is likely to produce acid. Acid that <br /> is produced will quickly be neutralized. During the mining process,WFC tests the <br /> overburden. If and when acidic layers are encountered, they will be mixed with <br /> non-acidic layer to neutralize any acid forming effects. <br /> Potential impacts of replaced spoil on groundwater quality: The analysis of <br /> geochemical controls on groundwater quality suggests that the water chemistry <br /> and concentrations of most elements of concern are controlled by rnineralogic <br /> reactions that will resist changes in water chemistry. Production of acid may <br /> occur in very local settings and is probably most prevalent in the coal which will <br /> be mined. Calculations indicate that neutralization of the acid will occur rapidly <br /> with mixing of water, or with movement of acidic water into calcite-bearing <br /> rocks. Also, the analysis conducted indicates that chemical changes are not likely <br /> to occur. <br /> Effects of mining on the local geomorphology: Impacts from mining on the local <br /> geomorphology will belong term, but appear to be of minimal significance. The <br /> reestablished reach of the drainage which will be mined will result in a shorter, <br /> slightly stepper stream channel. The potential for increased sediment loads in the <br /> drainage(once pond 007 is removed)should be offset by the stable banksides and <br /> the relatively small change in overall gradient. The increased runoff and <br /> consequent erosion potential on disturbed basins in the mining area due to the <br /> temporary loss of topsoil stricture should be of minimal significance. Contour <br /> ripping, mulching and revegetation have been demonstrated to minimize soil <br /> erosion and will be used to mitigate the increased runoff potential until the topsoil <br /> structure is developed. <br /> Effects of sediment ponds on channel characteristics and downstream users: <br /> Potential impacts of sediment pond 007 on downstream users will involve possible <br /> reductions in flow due to impounded water. The water augmentation plan <br /> discusses the available water which will be used should impacts be identified. <br /> WFC currently has rights to a sufficient quantity of water to supply all users <br /> associated with the mining activities, plus an additional quantity of water that can <br /> be used to mitigate any impact to downstream users. <br /> Effects of sediment pond discharge on surface water quality: The effects of <br /> sediment pond diversions on surface water quality will be negligible because the <br /> structure has been designed to minimize impacts to the hydrologic balance. The <br /> diversion involves such minor areas of disturbance that chemical and sediment <br /> changes in the flow will be unmeasurable. <br /> 18 <br />