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Investigations were directed at identifying the alluvial valley floor characteristics <br /> of Apache Canyon. The canyon is not considered an AVF because of the absence of <br /> subirrigation. CMLRD has made a negative determination of the Ciruela Canyon based on <br /> size criteria. <br /> Investigations were also directed at identifying the alluvial aquifers of Apache and <br /> Ciruela Canyons. The alluvial well data indicate limited pockets of water located in areas <br /> of bedrock outcrops and canyon constrictions. These pockets are limited in size and do <br /> not exhibit continuous lateral connection. Thus, by definition Apache and Ciruela <br /> Canyons do not contain alluvial aquifers. <br /> Surface water resources have been quantified through monitoring studies. The <br /> results of these studies indicate that both Apache and Ciruela Canyons are ephemeral <br /> streams. These canyons flow in response to significant storm events. Flows in these <br /> canyons have been shown to be a limited and minimal resource. Since this resource is <br /> limited, secondary or retreat mining even in the worst case would not significantly impact <br /> the surface water regime in and adjacent to the permit boundary. <br /> Apache, Ciruela and Purgatoire Valley essential hydrologic function will be <br /> preserved. Purgatoire Valley preservation is based on 50% extraction. Surface water and <br /> ground water resources are insignificant in Apache and Ciruela Canyons. As such, the <br /> surface water and ground water resources of these canyons do not supply the Purgatoire <br /> Valley with significant recharge capacity. Impacts of mining on the hydrologic balance <br /> would not be detectable in the short term or long term. <br /> -10- <br />