2012-01-05_REVISION - C1980005 (8)

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IX. Coal Mine Waste Since mining operations have ceased, the generation of coal mine waste is not anticipated at the Seneca II Mine. X. Backfilling and Grading Details of the backfilling and grading plan at the Seneca II Mine are found in Volume 10, Tab 12 and Volume 12, Tab 13 of the permit application. A backfilling and grading timetable is presented on Exhibit 13 -2, and in the permit application. All areas affected by surface coal mining operations, except specifically exempted by the Division, were returned to approximate original contour as shown on Exhibit 12 -9. This includes the drainage channels which were returned to approximate original locations to help maintain appropriate downstream water rights. The spoil was cast by the dragline into the adjacent open pit and compacted by the reclamation equipment. All spoils were graded, highwalls reduced and spoil piles and depressions eliminated except those depressions that existed prior to mining. Cut and fill terraces were not proposed at the Seneca II Mine. The following findings were made regarding backfilling and grading practices at the mine: 1. The applicant requested additional time for backfilling and grading following coal removal in an area strip mine. A detailed written analysis under 2.05.4(2)(c) demonstrated that additional time was necessary based on coal production rates. Therefore, the Division approved the additional time for the Wolf Creek and Wadge pit areas, and the non -coal waste disposal site. The Wadge pit area was reclaimed within 180 days of initial disturbance, but was regraded within 4 spoil ridges of the active pit. This delay was necessary because of production rates and pit sequencing. In some cases, it took four spoil rows to create sufficient spoil area to allow final grading to "daylight" and blend into the surrounding topography. All highwalls have been regraded at the Seneca II Mine site. The Division approved backfilling, grading and final reclamation of Auger Area E to be completed in 1998. The solid waste disposal site, a previously mined Wadge area pit was still being utilized for mining operations at that time. Reclamation of the solid waste disposal site has been completed. (4.14.1) 3. Small depressions in the backfill were used to minimize erosion, create or enhance wildlife habitat, conserve soil moisture, and promote revegetation. Seneca Coal Company has included in the postmine grading operation the use of very small swales. (4.14.2(3)). 24