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4 <br /> } physical developments related to the underground mining of coal are <br /> more extensive than at the Maxwell Mine. These include the east and <br /> west mine portals with accompanying buildings and related activities; <br /> and the refuse disposal areas resulting from nearly 30 years of mining. <br /> These structures, activities and refuse areas occupy approximately <br /> 180 acres within a strip which straddles the Middle Fork for a distance <br /> of nearly two miles. The Allen is about 3. 5 miles upstream from the <br /> Maxwell . The midpoint of mine activity is roughly 1.5 miles west of <br /> the confluence of the Middle and North Forks at Vigil , Colorado. <br /> Mining Activities <br /> The assessment of existing and potential impact on fish and wild- <br /> life resources requires consideration of human activities within, or <br /> proximate to the areas of concern. Potential for impact is quite <br /> different for the two mines. <br /> The Allen Mine began operation in 1952 and has operated continuously <br /> since that time. At the present there are approximately 500 employees <br /> working three 8-hour shifts five days per week. Future operations depend <br /> on the economy and demands for steel products. It is anticipated that <br /> the Allen will continue operations in excess of 10 years. At present, <br /> activity is confined mostly to the east portal , where miners enter and <br /> exit the mine, and coal is removed. Most of the activity at the west <br /> portal involves entry and exit of mine safety inspectors and maintenance <br /> personnel . No coal is removed from this portal . Air intake shafts <br /> and exhaust portal fans operate at both portals. <br />