2012-05-22_REVISION - C1981012 (2)

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(303) 866 -3567 ext. 8107. From: Hansen, Sidney L - MSHA [mailto: Hansen .Sidney @DOL.GOV] Sent: Thursday, May 17, 2012 4:01 PM To: - MSHA Cc: Binns, Janet; Hernandez, Daniel; Davis, Allyn C - MSHA; Knepp, William P - MSHA Subject: New Elk and DRMS Ron I met with three Members from DRMS today and several issues involving refuse piles were discussed 1. We discussed your recent Citation issued for refuse being steeper than 1.5h:1v. The mine has submitted Minor Revision No. 117 for permit C- 01981 -012. That permit seeks to remove refuse from the current location and place it at a temporary location." This temporary location used to be a stockpile, but it has since been cleaned off. It was my interpretation that the minimum size is not defined in the regulations and that the mine would need to comply with MSHA regulations for the new location. This is a relatively easy plan that could be formulated by the operator if it is built according to the standards — no plan approval is necessary, but they need to submit information as to its location. It is their understanding that the material in the pile is composed of "incombustible rock." The State would like to have our comments by the open of business on Tuesday, 5- 22 -12. This application for the permit by the state is dated May 15, 2012, and is in your inbox. The contact person at the state is Janet Binns, 303 - 866 -3567. 2. We also discussed TR64 and TR65. The state will be writing a deficiency letter, provide us with a copy and requests comments by June 1, 2012. TR64 involves development of a shaft to the underground workings which will likely be a bored hole, slashed to a large diameter. We have not received a 77.1900 plan for this, but they would like a copy of our response letter to the mine once they submit a plan and the review is completed. (This will not be your concern, Ron). FYI, Any refuse that is placed underground is a concern of the state. TR65 involves placing refuse on top of at least one portal canopy near the Allen Mine fan installation on the south -west end of the abandoned mine. The main concern with this permit application is that the canopy could crush, causing issues to the foundation. This could be relevant with 75.2150).