2011-03-22_PERMIT FILE - C1981022A (2)

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After review of the project proposal, all proposed activities appear to be consistent with lease terms. In addition, through correspondence with Oxbow, they have stated that no variances or relief from lease stipulations are required in this permit action. Forest Service internal review identified specifics on the following stipulations on lease COC- 61357: (2) Riparian Zones A 1/8 mile buffer zone (660 ft.) Will be protected on either side of the riparian zones (or a buffer zone may be established in accordance with the surface management agency guidelines). No surface disturbances, except surface subsidence, will be permitted within these buffer zones unless no practical alternatives exist. All unavoidable . surface, disturbances will require approval of the BLM and /or USES authorized officer. The BLM or USFS will coordinate with the USFWS and CROW to determine the type and extent of allowable variances. A site specific analysis will determine if this stipulation will apply. None of the twelve methane drainage wells or access roads are located in known riparian areas. The FS Watershed Conservation Practices Handbook also has specific measures for the water influence zone adjacent to perennial and intermittent streams. None of the methane drainage wells or access roads are adjacent to perennial or intermittent streams, although several access roads and pads could come in close proximity to riparian areas. Any disturbances in those areas would be consistent with the measures outlined in the WCP. (3) Drill sites, degasification boreholes, ventilation shafts or any other surface disturbances will not be located on slopes in excess of 60 percent or in areas of high geologic hazard A review of a 30 -meter digital elevation model indicated that all slopes in this portion of the lease area are less than 40 %. No roads and well pad will be located in areas considered high geologic hazard. (4).No surface occupancy or use is. allowed on the lands defined as a wetland, floodplain or riparian area. None of the twelve methane drainage wells or access roads will be located in riparian areas. (6) If new road access is required for construction of degasifieation boreholes or ventilation shafts, now acccsscs will be obliterated. Until obliteration, all new access will be closed to the public. Long term access will be by foot and horse. Conditions are identified to require decommissioning by obliteration all new temporary access roads and drill pads, and to close new access roads to the public. Other lease stipulations, such as subsidence studies, water monitoring, cultural survey, etc. have been met. IV. Conditions The required reviews resulted in identifying that the following conditions are needed to protect Federal resources: 10