U.S. Department of the Interior

Bureau of Land Management

Rock Springs Field Office February 2004

Draft

Environmental Assessment for the

Proposed Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease-ByApplication and Associated Rights-of-Way,

Sweetwater County, Wyoming
MISSION STATEMENT

It is the mission of the Bureau of Land Management to sustain the health, diversity, and

productivity of the public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future

generations.

BLM/WY/PL-04/009+1320


DRAFT

ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT

FOR THE PROPOSED TEN MILE RIM COAL

LEASE-BY-APPLICATION AND ASSOCIATED RIGHTS-OF-WAY,

SWEETWATER COUNTY, WYOMING

WY-040-EA04-060

As Applied for by Bridger Coal Company

(Federal Coal Lease Application WYW-154595)

Prepared for

Bureau of Land Management

Rock Springs Field Office

Rock Springs, Wyoming

In Cooperation with

Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and

Enforcement/Western Regional Coordinating Center

Denver, Colorado

This Environmental Assessment was prepared by TRC Mariah

Associates Inc., an environmental consulting firm, with guidance,

participation, and independent evaluation of the Bureau of Land

Management (BLM). The BLM, in accordance with Title 40 Code

of Federal Regulations, Part 1506(a) and (b), is in agreement with

the findings of the analysis and approves and takes responsibility

for the scope and content of this document.

February 2004
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease ES-1

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

On September 28, 2001, Bridger Coal Com pany (BCC) filed an application with the Bureau of

Land Management (BLM) for federal co al reserves located adjacent to th e existing Jim Bridger

Mine in north-central Sweetwater County, W yoming. On February 11, 2003, BCC filed a

modified application with th e BLM at th e W yoming State Office in Cheyenne for a redu ced

lease area. Th is application was made pursuant to provisions of the lease-by-application (LBA)

regulations found in Title 43 Code of Federal Regulation (C.F.R.) 3425.1. The tract applied for,

known as the Ten Mile Rim Tract (TMRT), contains federal-, state-, and private-owned coal

reserves. The BLM ass igned the federal le ase area cas e number WYW-154595. In addition to

the federal LBA action, the project would also require BLM to issue a right-of-way (ROW )

associated with the LBA for a portion of a new powerline required for the project. The ROW

applications would be m ade pursuant to Title 43 C.F.R., Part 2800, that govern the federal

approval and issuance of ROW applications.

The TMRT area and the associated ROW would be located north of Interstate 80, approxim ately

10 mi north of Point of Rocks, approxim ately 25 m i east of Rock Springs, and approxim ately

70 mi west of Rawlins, W yoming. The TMRT area is located in the area adm inistered by the

BLM Rock Springs Field Office.

BCC proposes to lease federal coal for a new underground m ine located adjacent to the existing

Jim Bridger Mine, a su rface coal m ine operation. Accord ing to LBA docum ents submitted by

BCC, the coal would be required to provide fuel to the nearby Jim Bridger Power Plant for an

additional 15 to 20 years. The surface ownership pattern within the TMRT area is checkerboard,

where even-numbered sections are owned by the federal government, odd-numbered sections are

privately owned, and select even-num bered sections are owned by the State of W yoming. The

Jim Bridger Mine has an approved mine and reclamation plan and permit (No. 338-T5) issued by

the Wyoming Department of Environm ental Quality/Land Quality Div ision (WDEQ/LQD) and

other pertinent perm its and approvals issued by other federal, state, and local regulatory

agencies. As part of the fede ral coal-leasing process, BLM will evaluate the tract configu ration

and m ay add or subtract federal coal to avoi d bypassing federal coal or to otherwise achieve
ES-2 Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

maximum econom ic recovery. BLM will also evalu ate the app lication to define the

characteristics of the federal coal reserves and to evaluate the fair m arket value of the tract. No

vertical shafts or inclines would be required to access the coal reserves. According to BCC,

underground access to the coal reserves within the TMRT area would b e gained through access

from the existing highwall area at Ram p 14 of the existing surface m ine. Under the P roposed

Action, no new m ine facilities (such as v entilation shafts o r support equipm ent) would be

required within the TMRT area. Associated m ine support facilities (e.g., buildings, roads,

overland conveyor, powerlines, etc.) would be located on lands that the applicant currently has

legal access rights to or where legal access would be secured.

In addition, the Proposed Action would include the approval of one associated ROW for a

segment of a new powerline. This associated facility would be located outside of and near to the

TMRT, and this ROW would be necessary for im plementation of the Proposed Action. The

Federal Land Policy and Management Act of 1976 (FLPMA), as am ended (43 United States

Code [U.S.C.] §1701 et seq.), and promulgating regulations found in Title 43 C.F.R., Part 2800,

govern the federal approval and issuance of ROW applications for facilities such as the proposed

powerline.

Before the federal governm ent m ay hold a com petitive coal leas e sale or issue the as sociated

ROW grant, the BLM m ust analyze the potential environmental impacts of issuing a lease or

ROW grant in accordan ce with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). To assess

potential im pacts of the Proposed Action, BLM conducted internal BLM and public scoping.

Public scop ing was in itiated on Novem ber 15, 2001, and conclud ed on Decem ber 31, 2001.

Based on public and BLM internal scoping comm ents, BLM has decided to prepare an

environmental assessm ent (EA) for the Propos ed Action. BLM also determ ined that no

additional public scoping was necessary or required as a result of the applicant' s 2003 revised

application and reduction in the size of the TMRT LBA area. This EA is prepared pursuant to

NEPA, as amended (42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.), its im plementing regulations found in Title 40

C.F.R. Part 1500–1508, BLM's National Environmental Policy Act Handbook (H-1790-1) (BLM

1988), BLM' s desktop reference Overview of BLM's NEPA Process (BLM 1996a), and
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease ES-3

Considering Cumulative Impacts Under the National Environmental Policy Act (Council on

Environmental Quality [CEQ] 1997).

This EA assesses the environm ental im pacts of the Proposed Action and the No Action

Alternative. The Proposed Action is strictly defined as the leasing of the federal coal reserves

located within the TMRT and the granting of one ROW for a segment of powerline (required for

the Proposed Action) that would cross federal lands. This EA assesses the potential

environmental im pacts of these actions on federal lands but also includes the potential

environmental impacts associated with the con struction and m ining activities that would occur

on private- and state-owned lands. W hile som e of these associated activ ities would occur on

privately owned lands, they are described as connected actions under NEPA regulations and

analyzed in this EA.

The Proposed Action would com ply with all relevant federal, state, and local laws and

regulations. In addition, the Proposed Action would b e operated in acco rdance with federal

Mine Safety and Health Adm inistration (MSHA) and W yoming Departm ent of Employm ent,

Division of Mine Inspections and Safety rules and regulations.

Several alternatives were identified and reviewed during the preparation of this EA. However, at

the conclusion of the review, the EA team screened out all of the alternatives, except for th e No

Action Alternative, as not feasible and not warranting further analysis in this EA. The Proposed

Action and the No Action Alternative are analyzed in detail in this draft EA.

Proposed Action

Under the Proposed Action, coal on federal lands within the TMRT would be offered for lease at

a com petitive s ale, sub ject to s tandard BLM coal leas e stipulations. An es timated 44 m illion

tons of in-place coal reserv es exist within the federal lands in the T MRT area, and an estim ated

121.5 million tons of in-place coal reserves exist within the entire TMRT area (including federal,

state, and private mineral rights) that would be mined over an approximate 15- to 20-year period.

Because the TMRT is located with in an area of check erboard coal ownership (a pattern of
ES-4 Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

alternating sections of federal, state, and private mineral rights), the use of federal land is needed

for optimal mine development. Under the Propos ed Action, all coal with in the TMRT would be

mined utilizing underg round longwall m ining technologies, and a m inimal amount of surfacedisturbing activities would occu r. A m ajority of the add itional surface-disturbing activities for

mine-related facilities (i.e., su rface support facilities, powerline, o verland conveyor, and access

road) would occur within areas that have already been disturbed within the existing Jim Bridger

Mine lease and m ine perm it area. An exception would be for a separate electric powerline

required for underg round m ining equipm ent and su rface support facilities. These areas are

discussed in more detail later in this chapter.

Underground mining operations would begin at the highwall near Ram p 14 where continuous

mining machines would be utiliz ed to establish the m ain entry and working room for longwall

mining equipm ent. Once adequate panel d evelopment has taken place, underground longwall

mining equipm ent would be assem bled and put into service. Under the P roposed Action,

longwall mining would accoun t for a m ajority of the coal m ined from the TMRT. Estim ated

production from the underground m ine could range from 4.5 to 5.5 m illion tons per y ear at full

production for the next 15-20 years. Once the coal is m ined, it would be loaded onto an electric

conveyor system and transported directly to the Jim Bridger Power Plant, located approxim ately

4-5 mi south of the TMRT.

No Action Alternative

Under the No Action Alternativ e, the TMRT coal lease app lication would be rejected and the

area con tained in the applica tion would no t be offered for com petitive coal sa le at th is tim e.

However, rejection of th e application would not affect the already leased and perm itted surface

mining activity at the Jim Bridger Mine. For the purpose of this analysis, the No Action

Alternative assumes that the TMRT would not be m ined in the imm ediate future. This

assumption is highly speculative since private minerals within the project area may be developed

without the development of the federal minerals. However, this approach is not preferred by the

applicant, has no t been d iscussed with the BLM, and would not be utilized as the No Action

Alternative. The purpose of the No Action Alte rnative is to allow a comparison of the economic
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease ES-5

and environmental consequences of mining these lands versus not mining them. Not leasing this

land in a configuration ass ociated with the ex isting Jim Bridger surface coal m ine at this tim e

may result in a bypass of federal coal, which m ay not be in the general public' s best financial

interest. However, selection of the No Action Alternative would not preclude the possibility of

subsequent leasing of these lands as a stand-alone underground m ine as described in Section

2.3.1.

Under the No Action Alternativ e, the Propo sed Action would not be selected and BLM would

not offer the federal coal within the TMRT le ase area for sale. As a result, BCC' s ability to

sustain historic coal production levels would be lim ited to the rem aining coal reserves located

within the existing leas e area that would be econom ically recoverable using existing surface

mining operations and highwall mining methods. Undoubtedly, there would be a decrease in the

amount of coal m ined at the Jim Bridger Coal Mine with a correspond ing reduction in the

number of miners em ployed at BCC. BCC would continue to produce coal at som e reduced

level as long as the costs were com petitive with m arket alternatives for th e Jim Bridger Power

Plant. BCC has not com pleted a detailed analysis of the No Action Alternative m ining scenario

and does not have specific information on how long surface mining operations could continue or

how many workers would be required for on-going m ining and reclamation operations under the

No Action Alternative.

In addition, representatives for the ad jacent Jim Bridger Power Plant would need to secu re

alternative coal supplies from non-BCC sources for the power plant. These coal supplies would

likely be transported by rail to the plan t on th e existing railroad spur line from Union Pacific

Railroad Company's main line located near Point of Rocks, Wyoming.

Direct and Indirect Impacts

BLM resource sp ecialists h ave determ ined that six of the 13 critical elem ents of the hum an

environment are not present in the area, are no t affected by the P roposed Action or alternatives

of this EA, and are not discussed further. Seven critical elem ents (air quality; cultural resources;

Native Am erican religious concerns; TEC&P species; wastes [hazardous and solid]; water
ES-6 Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

quality; and wetlands/riparian areas) are present in the proposed project area, may be affected by

the Proposed Action or alternatives, and are discussed in detail in this EA.

Based on comm ents received from the public during a BLM-sponsored open hou se for the

Proposed Action on January 17, 2002, and additional existing inform ation concerning the

proposed project area, BLM resou rce specialists have determined that this EA will also an alyze

potential im pacts of the Proposed Action and alternatives on geology and geologic hazards,

minerals (solid and fluid), health and safety (transportation), land resources and use, noise,

rangeland and livestock grazing, recreation, socioeconom ics, soil resources, special status flora

and fauna, vegetation, wild horses, and wildlife. Other resources (e.g., forested area/products,

paleontology, visual resources, water rights, etc.) have been determined not to be affected by the

proposed project and are therefore not analyzed in detail in this EA.

Based on the discussion presented above and in acco rdance with BLM NEPA regulations and

policies, the following resource area/topics will be addressed in this EA: air quality and noise;

cultural resources; geology and geologic hazards; health and safety (transportation); land

resources and use; minerals (solid and fluid); Native American religious concerns; rangeland and

livestock grazing; recreation; socioeconom ics; soil resources; TEC&P and BLM-sensitive

species; vegetation (including invasive species); wastes (hazardous and solid); water resources;

wetlands/riparian areas; wild horses; and wildlife.

Air pollutant emissions would occur from construction of the m ine facilities and from selected

mine and reclam ation operations associated with the Proposed Action. Air em issions and air

pollutant im pacts are lim ited by state and federal regulations, standards, and im plementation

plans established under the Clean Air Act and are adm inistered within W yoming by

WDEQ/AQD. Chapter 6 of the WAQS&R requires all proposed air pollu tant emission sources,

including coal m ining operations, to undergo a pe rmitting review and, if necessary, to obtain a

construction permit prior to construction or operation of the source. Chapter 3 of the W AQS&R

specifies general em issions standards for ne w and existing sources, and Chapter 2 of the

WAQS&R addresses am bient air quality standards. Additional state or federal program s may

apply, to a proposed source, if certain em issions and other thresholds are m et or exceeded. One
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease ES-7

such program is the PSD perm it program (als o adm inistered by W DEQ/AQD) that requires

major sources to perform additional analyses, including Best Available Control Technology and

Air Quality-Related Values analyses for federal Class I Areas. The Proposed Action, in

combination with existing Jim Bridger Mine operations, would be classified as a m inor source

and therefore would not be subject to the PSD perm it program. The Proposed Action would be

subject to W DEQ/AQD construction and operating perm it requirements and would be required

to operate in com pliance with em ission standards and am bient air quality standards. Based on

the discussion presented in the EA, no violations of applicable federal o r state air qu ality

regulations would occur.

Under the Proposed Action, hum an-related noise would increase above existing background

levels; however, a majority of the mining activities would occur between 200 and 1,000 ft below

the ground level and therefore would not be audible to the casual observer located within the

TMRT. The highest level of noise associated with the Proposed Action would likely occur at or

near th e m ine portal and surface suppo rt facility at Ram p 14. In addition, ongoing su rface

mining and reclam ation operation s, and th e accom panying noise, would continu e at the J im

Bridger Mine. As a result, noise from the Proposed Action would likely be less than surface

mining operations and would not be distinguishable from the existing level of background noise

in the area. In addition, there are no residences, schools, or noise-sensitive hum an recep tors

within the TMRT or the CIAA. The nearest re sidence to the TMRT would be m ore than 8 m i

west in the town of Superior. It is unlikely that underground mining operations would be audible

or would adversely affect residents in Superior.

Under the Proposed Action, 59 acres within the TMRT may be physically disturbed as a result of

the repair of surface cracks due to subsidence. An additional 28 acres lo cated away from the

TMRT area would be disturbed due to the cons truction of associated support facilities (e.g.,

overland conveyor system, powerline, access road). In order to p rotect and m itigate potential

impacts to NRHP-eligible sites (including the Point of Rocks to South Pass wagon road) within

the TMRT area, BCC would enter into a cultural resource programm atic agreement with BLM,

OSM, WDEQ/LQD, and Wyom ing State Historic Preservation Office. This agreem ent would

identify specific survey, testing, protection, and m itigation measures that would be implemented
ES-8 Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

by BCC to address and protect NRHP-eligible historic and prehistoric sites within the TMRT

area. The p rogrammatic agreement would dem onstrate compliance with all app licable cultural

resource laws and regulations.

Under the Proposed Action, BLM Class III surveys would be conducted on those areas that are

located outside of the TMRT, have not been previously surveyed, and would be physically

disturbed by the construction activities. All historic and prehistoric resources that are potentially

eligible for the NHRP that could be adversely affected by the Proposed Action would be

protected from disturbance or would be app ropriately mitigated if the s ite could not b e avoided.

Where necessary and appropriate, site-specific mitigation m easures would be d eveloped and

implemented in accordance with the current cultural resource protection plan contained in BCC's

approved WDEQ/LQD permit. The site-specific m itigation measures would also be dev eloped

and implemented with the concurrence of the BLM, OSM, WDEQ/LDQ, and the Wyoming State

Historic Preservation Office.

The primary impact of the Proposed Action on geology would be the rem oval of approximately

44 m illion tons of in-p lace federal co al rese rves included in the total of approxim ately

121.5 million tons of in-place federal, private, and state coal reserves from the TMRT area.

Under the Proposed Action, there would be a slight lowering of elevation within a majority of

the TMRT. The amount of subsidence that reaches the surface depends on such factors as time,

depth of mining, thickness of the coalbed extracted, thickness and strength of the overlying rock,

and any previous m ining of overlying coalbeds (U.S. Departm ent of Energy 1995). BCC

anticipates that 85% of the m ined-out coal area m ay eventually be eviden t at the su rface by a

slight lowering (6.0-9.5 ft) of elevation. Based on the experience from other underground

operations being conducted by PacifiCorp (BCC is a subsidiary of PacifiCorp), BCC expects that

it would take approxim ately 3-4 weeks for s ubsidence caused by the longwall m ining of the

TMRT to initially reach the surface. In addition, BCC expects subsidence ac tivities to be

substantially complete within 2 years of th e completion of m ining operations at any particular

location.
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease ES-9

Material overlying the mains would generally rem ain intact at the original elevation, while the

remaining mined longwall panel areas would settle . The surface would g radually settle over the

longwall coal panel area following the completion of mining operations. While the area located

above the longwall coal panels would subside, the settling would cause little or no surface

disturbance (e.g., surface cracks, channel displacement, etc.) that would require corrective action

(i.e., reclamation and revegetation) by BCC. This assessm ent is based on other longwall m ining

operations conducted in Wyoming. Therefore, for the purpose of this EA, it will be assumed that

1% (or 59 acres) of the su rface area with in the TMRT would be im pacted over the LOM to a

point that would require corrective action (i.e., repair and rev egetation of surface cracks). If the

project area were completely flat, the final topographic surface would be composed of ridges and

basins. However, com bined with the natural undulations of the topographic surface, the

subsidence within the TMRT would generally not be noticeable to the causal observer.

Local surface water d rainage pa tterns with in the TMRT could be disrupted by subsiden ce.

Therefore, besides th e 59 acres of estim ated subsidence that would need to be reclaim ed, BCC

would be responsible for repairing and revegetating any drainage channel affected by

subsidence-related disturb ance with in th e TMRT in acco rdance with W DEQ/LQD rules and

regulations.

There may be slightly increased soil erosion due to subsid ence. Soil loss would o ccur primarily

due to wind and water erosion. W ind and water erosion would eventually reduce the relief due

to the subsidence. Soils would be locally affect ed if cracks develop at the surface. BCC would

be responsible for repairing and revegetation any area affected by subsidence-related disturbance

within the TMRT in accordance with WDEQ/LQD rules and regulations.

Vegetation would not be directly disturbed unless subsidence cracks form ; however, BCC would

repair and revegetate any area affected by subs idence-related disturbances within th e TMRT in

accordance with W DEQ/LQD rules and regulations. Indirect impacts would occu r because the

new topography would alter local soil m oisture regimes, which m ay eventually affect species

distribution within the TMRT. The new topography m ay also alter snow distribution and thus
ES-10 Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

moisture accum ulation patterns, which m ay ev entually caus e gradual perm anent changes to

vegetation communities.

Under the Proposed Action, approxim ately 10-75 tem porary construction workers would be

employed from approximately mid-2005 through the end of 2007, and an additional 50 m iners

may eventually be em ployed at the Jim Bridger Mine. Both tem porary and full-time employees

would travel to the mine site either in individual vehicles, vans, or buses. As a result, the number

of individual vehicles, vans, and buses would not greatly increase from the existing num bers of

vehicles that currently utilize Interstate 80 or W yoming State Highway 377. It also follows that

there would not be a large increase in the number of traffic accidents on both roads.

In addition, construction and new miners would travel on access roads controlled and maintained

by BCC, and drivers would be required to com ply with posted speed lim its. The public would

not have access to the working portions of the m ine and these access road s. The ex isting mine

access roads would be m aintained according to approp riate transportation standards in order to

handle the estimated 180 to 250 miners that would eventually work at and travel to the proposed

underground mine. The actual number of vehicles that would utilize these roads at any one tim e

cannot be accurately estimated but would be based on the average number of workers per vehicle

and the number of employees that would be working in any specific work shift (the mine would

generally be operated 24 hours per day 7 days per week).

Under the Proposed Action, landownership and m ineral ownership would not change. Other

current land uses within the TMRT (i.e., lives tock grazing, wildlife habitat, and dispersed

recreation) would continue at their current levels, unaltered and unaffected by the Proposed

Action. However, current land uses in the approxim ate 28 acres that would be disturbed by the

proposed construction of the m ine facilities (e.g., overland conveyor, powerline, etc.) would be

temporarily unavailable for livestock grazing, wildlife habitat, and/or recreational use. However,

once m ining operations have been com pleted, facilities rem oved, and the disturbed area

reclaimed, previous land uses would be available.
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease ES-11

There are no known producing oil, gas, or coalbed m ethane wells or fields within the TMRT or

the CIAA, and the poten tial for near-term mineral development, besides coal, within the TMRT

is moderate to low (BLM 1997a, 2003b). Coalbed methane testing conducted by BCC within the

TMRT area indicates that there is no evidence of econom ic reserves of coalbed m ethane in any

of the four holes that were drilled by BCC ( BLM 2003b; PacifiCorp 2003). Given the lack of

existing coalbed m ethane development within th e TMRT and the lack of any proven reserves

from the Deadm an coal zone or even th e CIAA, it is no t possib le to estim ate the los s of any

potential coalbed methane reserves that may potentially be present with the LBA area.

In addition, there are no active lo catable mineral (e.g., precious metals, bentonite, etc.) mines or

economically recoverable deposits of locatable m inerals within the TMRT or the CIAA, and

there are no claim s for locatable m inerals within the TMRT or CIAA (BLM 1996b). There are

also no construction aggregate quarries (a saleab le m ineral) within the TMRT or the CIAA;

however, the BLM has identified several sand and gravel deposits along the western boundary of

the CIAA (BLM 1996b). Due to the lim ited size and remoteness of these deposits outside of the

TMRT area, it is unlikely that these deposits would be developed in the near-term and therefore

would be unaffected by the Proposed Action.

Exploration, including seismic testing, for and developm ent of oil, gas, coalbed m ethane,

locatable minerals, and salable m inerals may continue to b e permitted by the BLM within the

TMRT in accordance with app licable regulations and as long as exploration wou ld not interfere

with ongoing coal mine development and operations.

No sites of Native Am erican religious concer n are known to occur within the T MRT; if such

sites o r lo calities are identified at a later date , they would be taken in to consideration by the

BLM and would be addressed in accordance with applicable rules, regulations, and policies.

Approximately 5 AUMs may potentially be tem porarily d isplaced by reclam ation operations

associated with the repair of the surface cracks due to subsidence. This would accoun t for less

than 0.006% of the utilized AUMs within the Rock Springs grazing allotm ent. This

displacement would be short-term (i.e., less than 10-20 years after recl amation operations have
ES-12 Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

been completed) and would be m itigated by tim ely implementation of reclamation operations.

Reclamation and revegetation ope rations would be conducted in accordance with and approved

by W DEQ/LQD. There would be no perm anent disp lacement of lives tock as a resu lt of the

Proposed Action. Noise from the underground m ining operation would be m inimal, and noise

from the m ine portal and surface support facilities would be sim ilar to the existing noise b eing

generated at the J im Bridger Mine; therefore, th ere would be no d isplacement of livestock from

the project area due to increased noise.

Under the Proposed Action, recreation opportunities within the TMRT would be discouraged but

would not be restricted. Hunting and other dispersed recreational activities that currently occu r

within the TMRT project area would likely continue and would not be altered or impacted by the

Proposed Action.

The Continental Divid e dissects th e TMRT LBA area; however, no segm ents or routes of the

CDNST have been designated by the BLM along the southern branch around the Great Divide

hydrologic drainage basin.

It is likely that most of the specialized temporary construction workers would come from outside

of the Sweetwater County area. However, wi th underground longwall-type m ining operations

currently being conducted at the trona mines located west of Green River, it is possible that some

of the additional miners may be hired from within the existing workforce.

Projected revenue to the State of W yoming is estimated at $93.5 m illion from mining the entire

TMRT area, of which $33.9 m illion would be genera ted from mining of the federal co al, based

on $1.10 per ton of coal sold and including incom e from severance tax, property and production

taxes, sales and use taxes, and W yoming's share of federal royalty payment (Borden et al. 1994).

Locally, mining of coal from the TMRT area would help stabilize m unicipal, county, and state

economies.
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease ES-13

Existing infrastructure in Sweetwater County (e.g., housing, utilities, schools, hospitals, etc.)

would be adequate to accommodate the limited additional temporary construction and permanent

mining jobs created by Proposed Action.

Direct impacts to soils would include the rem oval of vegetation, exposure of the soil, m ixing of

soil horizons, loss of topsoil productivity, soil com paction, and increased susceptibility to wind

and water erosion. These im pacts m ay, in tu rn, result in increased runoff, erosion, and

sedimentation to the any receiving water sy stem. Short-term control of surface runoff and

sedimentation would be accomplished by implementation of alternate sediment control measures

required by the WDEQ/LQD and described in the mine plan portion of the Proposed Action.

Federally listed TEC&P species with th e potential to occur in the p roject area are black-footed

ferret and bald eagle and no impacts are expected.

All BLM-sensitive species likely to occur with in the TMRT and vicinity have been identified.

BLM-sensitive species documented in or in the vicinity of the TMRT include white-tailed prairie

dog, white-faced ibis, ferruginous hawk, greater sage-grouse, long-billed curlew, burrowing owl,

sage thrasher, loggerhead shrike, Brewer' s sparrow, m ountain plover, northern leopard frog,

Great Basin spadefoot, Nelson's milkvetch, and mystery wormwood (WNDD 2003). Most of the

BLM-sensitive species likely to occur within the TMRT are m obile enough that they would

likely not be affected by the Proposed Action.

While it may be possible that in dividual white-tailed prairie dogs or burrowing owls that live in

areas directly affected by m ine-related subsidence m ay be adversely affected by the Proposed

Action, the im pacts would be lim ited to few indi viduals and would not have an adverse im pact

on their populations. In addition, the project area would not contribute to the need to list

additional species under the provisions of the federal Endangered Species Act.

Direct im pacts to vegetation due to the Proposed Action include the rem oval of existing

vegetation comm unity from the disturbed area. In turn, vegetation rem oval would result in

increased runoff, erosion, and sedim entation to the any receiving water system s. Short-term

control of surface runoff would be accomplished by implementation of alternate sediment control
ES-14 Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

measures required by the W DEQ/LQD and described in the m ine and reclam ation plan of the

Proposed Action. In addition, long-term control of surface runoff would be accom plished by

successful implementation of the reclamation plan described in the Proposed Action.

As part of the W DEQ/LQD permit to m ine, BCC would be responsible for the developm ent of

mine subsidence and reclam ation plans that would include detailed inform ation concerning the

amount of anticipated sub sidence, m itigation m easures to prevent o r m inimize the im pacts of

subsidence, mitigation measures to prevent, lessen, or mitigate material damage or loss of value

of physical property in the area, a subs idence monitoring and mitigation plan, and a reclam ation

plan to address reclamation and revegetation requirements on affected areas. Following the

completion of reclamation operations, the revegetated areas would be monitored at least annually

for five years by BCC and W DEQ/LQD to assess the subsidence and the adequacy or need for

additional reclam ation and revegetation effort s. Subsidence and erosional features would be

monitored and appropriate corrective actions instituted if conditions warrant. Additional ero sion

control features would be em ployed as needed and as directed by W DEQ/LQD. All m itigation

and corrective actions would be conducted in accordance with the approved WDEQ/LQD mine

permit.

Solid waste such as garbage and other discarded solid m aterials would be collected at a

designated collection site and disposed of at an approved solid waste management facility. Solid

waste would not be imported or disposed of within the TMRT area. Spills of petroleum products

may occur during m ining due to periodic equipm ent maintenance and/or accidents. Petroleum -

contaminated soils would be disposed of in an approved facility capable of accepting such waste.

All nonhazardous material would be disposed of in accordance with appropriate local, state, and

federal regulations.

Direct impacts to surface water resources would include an increase in runoff, wind and water

erosion, and sedim entation to th e any receiv ing system as a result of surface disturbance,

removal of vegetation, exposure of the soil to the elem ents, and soil com paction. Ephem eral

channels may also be im pacted as a res ult of subsidence that may cause limited head-cutting or

ponding within affected channels. Short-term control of surface runoff would be accom plished
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease ES-15

by im plementation of alternate sedim ent control m easures required by th e W DEQ/LQD and

described in the m ine plan portion of the Proposed Action. However, there would be no

temporary or perm anent depletion of surface wate r resources. In addition, long-term control of

surface runoff would be accom plished by successful im plementation of the reclam ation plan

described in the Proposed Action. Reclam ation and revegetation procedures would be designed

to reduce the susceptibility of disturbed areas to soil erosion in both the short-term and for the

life of the project.

No perennial streams would be directly impacted by the underground mining activities, and there

would be no depletion of surface water resources . Therefore, no additional m itigation measures

beyond those already included in the Proposed Action would be required.

Under the Proposed Action, BCC would require approxim ately 100,000 to 500,000 gallons of

water per day from the Deadman coal zone for dust suppression and equipment washdown and at

the surface support facilities. In add ition, approximately 5,915 acres of coal aquifer (the sam e

one that would be mined) would be temporarily removed during mining.

Drawdown of the coal aquifer would occur throughout the life of the m ine and would likely

mimic groundwater drawdown patterns currently observed as a result of BCC' s surface coal

mining operation. The drawdown lim it of the D eadman coal zone would likely continue to

extend northwest of the ex isting su rface m ine operation. In addition, a lim ited am ount of

drawdown would also occur in the Lance Formation and Fort Union Formation overburden. The

amount of drawdown would depend upon num erous hydrogeologic factors including the am ount

of hydraulic connectivity betw een the various form ations. There are no known groundwater

appropriations within the vicinity of the TMRT, except those currently held by BCC.

After mining operations have been com pleted, aquifers would begin to recharge, although the

recharge rate would dep end on the specific phy sical characteristics of the replaced aqu ifer

(Deadman coal zone) and the indirectly impacted aquifers (the Fort Union Formation overburden

and the Lance Formation). It may require 100 years or m ore for postmine groundwater levels to
ES-16 Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

recharge to premine levels (BLM 2003b). Im pacts due to aquifer drawdown would last for 100

years or more beyond the life of the mine; however, these impacts would not be permanent.

The closest surface expression of groundwater to the TMRT is at Radar Springs, app roximately

1 mi northwest of the TMRT. However, based upon the slope of the coal beds that would be

impacted by the Proposed Action and knowledge gained at the existing Jim Bridger Mine and

local geologic m aps, the proposed underground m ine would be located down-gradient of Radar

Springs and most likely is not connected to Radar Springs and would not impact Radar Springs.

There are no jurisdictional or nonjurisdictional wetlands within the TMRT. The Proposed

Action would have no im pacts on wetland resources, and permit coverage from the U.S. Army

Corps of Engineers would not be required.

Direct impacts to wild horse populations would result from th e temporary loss of 87 acres of

habitat due to v egetation rem oval; disp lacement of wild horses du e to d isturbance by

project-related activities; direct mortality due to construction-related activities; and an increased

likelihood of vehicle/animal collisions due to increased vehicle traffic. Impacts to vegetation due

to disturbance would be lim ited in part due to the fact that the 87 acres of disturbance would be

spread over a larger area and would not occur in a single block of disturbance. In addition, the

population of wild horses within the GDBW HMA is within the BLM m anagement level for this

area, and there would be no impacts to the local wild horse numbers.

Direct im pacts to big gam e would result from the loss of habitat due to v egetation rem oval;

displacement of wildlife due to di sturbance by project-related activities; direct m ortality due to

construction-related activities; increased mortality due to poaching and harassm ent; and an

increased likelihood of vehicle/anim al collisions due to increased traffic in the area. Due to the

depth of the m ining operations, noise from the underground m ining operations would be

minimal; therefore, no big gam e would be expected to be displaced from within the TMRT due

to noise.
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease ES-17

Approximately 1,726 acres or 30% of the TMRT area would be located within crucial

winter/yearlong pronghorn antelope range. However, a majority of the TMRT area (70%) would

be located in winter/yearlong habitat. Im pacts to pronghorn antelope due to vegetation rem oval

would be lim ited due in part to the fact th at the 87 acres of project-related disturbance would

occur in sm all amounts over a large area. In addition, only 30 acres of the disturbance would

occur within crucial winter/y earlong range. Therefore, there would be no im pacts to the

population of pronghorn antelope within the Red Desert herd unit due to the Proposed Action.

The TMRT does not contain any crucial winter m ule deer or elk range. Once construction

activities and reclam ation operations are com pleted and suitable vegetation habitat is reestablished, mule deer and elk would likely reoccupy the ROWs and areas within the TMRT that

are impacted by subsidence. Therefore, there would be no im pacts to either m ule deer or elk

populations due to the Proposed Action.

Direct impacts to rap tors include mortality due to electrocutions and collisions with powerline

structures. It is unlikely that raptor populations would be im pacted by the Proposed Action;

however, individual birds m ay be impacted. Several raptor nests are locat ed in the TMRT area;

however, no raptor nests were documented within the ROW areas.

Direct impacts to greater sage-g rouse and other upland gam e birds include loss of breeding and

nesting habitat, wintering areas, and possibly strutting grounds (leks); displacem ent due to

increased hum an activity; and collisions with vehicles and/or powerlines. Indirect im pacts

include the displacement due to noise, ground vibrations, and/or subsidence. The BLM requires

special m itigation m easures if greater s age-grouse leks are lo cated within 0.25 m i of any

proposed surface disturbance.

Only approximately 1% (59 acres) within the TMRT m ay be physically disturbed as a result of

reclamation operations to repair cracks due to subsidence, and it is possible, but unlikely, that

one or more of the three greater sage-grouse leks within the TMRT m ay be physically im pacted

by these operations. In order to m inimize potential impacts to g reater sage-grouse with in the

TMRT, reclamation operations would be conducted in accordance with standard BLM mitigation
ES-18 Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

measures outlined in th e EA and W DEQ/LQD requirem ents specified in the m ine and

reclamation permit application prepared by BCC. BLM, WDEQ/LQD, and WGFD would

carefully evaluate the need for and exten t of any surface-distu rbing activity that would occu r

within 1 mi of any greater sage-grouse lek. Priority would be given to m inimizing any physical

disturbance to greater sage-grouse leks.

Due to the depth of underground mining operations (i.e., 200 ft to 1,000 ft below the surface) and

the limited amount of blasting, noise and /or ground vibrations at the su rface within the TMRT

due to mining operations would be m inimal compared to nearby surface co al mining operations.

Subsidence would also occur with in the longwall coal panel ar eas. However, there is no

documented or anecdotal evidence of im pacts of noise, ground vibration, or subsidence from

underground mining operations on greater sage-grouse behavior.

Cumulative Impacts

Cumulative impacts result from the incremental impacts of an action added to other past, present,

and reasonably foreseeable future actions, regardless of who is responsible for such actions.

Cumulative im pacts m ay result from individually m inor, but collectively significant, actions

occurring over a period of tim e (40 C.F.R. 1508.7). The boundary of individual CIAA areas for

this EA are based on the specific resource being discussed and evaluated.

Cumulative im pacts to all of the environm ental resources evaluated in this EA would not be

important because there are no pas t, present, or reasonable foreseeable future actions th at, when

combined with the Proposed Action, would result in impacts beyond those that already exist or

have already been identified and discussed in Chapter 4.0 of this EA.
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease i

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Page

1.0 INTRODUCTION................................................................................................................. 1

1.1 BACKGROUND....................................................................................................... 1

1.2 PURPOSE AND NEED ............................................................................................ 5

1.3 CONFORMANCE WITH LAND USE PLANS AND RELATIONSHIP TO

STATUTES, REGULATIONS, AND OTHER PLANS ..................................... 7

1.3.1 BLM Resource Management Plan ............................................................. 7

1.3.2 Existing NEPA Documents........................................................................ 9

1.3.3 Review of Select Permits, Approvals, and Authorizations........................ 10

1.3.3.1 OSM Requirements..................................................................... 10

1.3.3.2 WDEQ Requirements.................................................................. 11

1.3.3.3 Wyoming State Engineer's Office (WSEO) Requirements......... 11

1.3.3.4 Wyoming Office of State Lands and Investment (WOSLI)

Requirements................................................................................ 12

1.3.3.5 Sweetwater County Requirements .............................................. 12

1.3.4 Public Involvement .................................................................................... 12

2.0 THE PROPOSED ACTION AND ALTERNATIVES......................................................... 15

2.1 PROPOSED ACTION .............................................................................................. 15

2.1.1 Overview .................................................................................................... 15

2.1.2 Mine Permit and Other Required Permits/Approvals ................................ 17

2.1.3 Resource Recovery and Protection Plan .................................................... 18

2.1.4 Description of the TMRT Area .................................................................. 18

2.1.5 Mine Plan ................................................................................................... 19

2.1.5.1 Location and Description of Additional Mine Facilities ............ 20

2.1.5.2 Mine Equipment.......................................................................... 27

2.1.5.3 Nature of Coal and Coal Reserves .............................................. 30

2.1.5.4 Mining Methods .......................................................................... 31

2.1.5.5 Mine-Water Discharge and Treatment........................................ 36

2.1.5.6 Water Requirements.................................................................... 36

2.1.5.7 Control of Toxic, Hazardous, and Solid Waste Materials .......... 36

2.1.5.8 Subsidence and Associated Reclamation ................................... 38

2.1.5.9 Reclamation of Mine Facilities ................................................... 39

2.1.5.10 Avoidance of Public Nuisance and Endangerment................... 40

2.1.5.11 Employment .............................................................................. 42

2.1.5.12 Cultural Resource Protection .................................................... 43

2.1.5.13 General Environmental Protection............................................ 44

2.2 NO ACTION ALTERNATIVE ................................................................................ 44
ii Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

TABLE OF CONTENTS (CONTINUED)

Page

2.3 ALTERNATIVES CONSIDERED BUT ELIMINATED FROM DETAILED

STUDY................................................................................................................. 46

2.3.1 Hold a Competitive Sale of Federal Coal Lands that Would

Maximize the Potential for a New Stand-alone Mine.............................. 46

2.3.2 Smaller Sale Area....................................................................................... 48

2.3.3 Larger Sale Area (Originally Applied-for LBA Tract).............................. 48

2.3.4 Postpone Competitive Lease Sales............................................................. 49

2.3.5 Hold a Competitive Sale of Federal Coal Lands as a Continuation of

Existing Surface Coal Mining Operations ............................................... 50

3.0 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT ............................................................................................ 53

3.1 LOCATION, SETTING, AND HISTORICAL USE................................................ 53

3.2 CRITICAL ELEMENTS........................................................................................... 54

3.3 AFFECTED RESOURCES....................................................................................... 57

3.3.1 Air Quality and Noise ................................................................................ 57

3.3.1.1 Air Quality .................................................................................. 57

3.3.1.2 Noise ........................................................................................... 60

3.3.2 Cultural Resources ..................................................................................... 62

3.3.3 Geology and Geologic Hazards ................................................................. 64

3.3.4 Health and Safety (Transportation)............................................................ 67

3.3.5 Land Resources and Use ............................................................................ 67

3.3.6 Minerals (Solid and Fluid) ......................................................................... 68

3.3.6.1 Leasable Solid Minerals (Coal)................................................... 68

3.3.6.2 Leasable Fluid Minerals (Oil, Gas, and Coalbed Methane)........ 70

3.3.6.3 Locatable Minerals...................................................................... 72

3.3.6.4 Salable Minerals.......................................................................... 72

3.3.7 Native American Religious Concerns........................................................ 72

3.3.8 Rangeland and Livestock Grazing ............................................................. 73

3.3.9 Recreation .................................................................................................. 73

3.3.10 Socioeconomics........................................................................................ 77

3.3.11 Soil Resources.......................................................................................... 78

3.3.12 TEC&P and BLM-sensitive Species........................................................ 79

3.3.12.1 Introduction ............................................................................... 79

3.3.12.2 Federally Listed Animal and Plant Species .............................. 81

3.3.12.3 BLM-sensitive Animal and Plant Species................................. 84

3.3.13 Vegetation (Including Invasive Species) ................................................. 84

3.3.14 Wastes (Hazardous and Solid) ................................................................. 88

3.3.15 Water Resources....................................................................................... 89

3.3.15.1 Surface Water Resources .......................................................... 89

3.3.15.2 Groundwater Resources ............................................................ 91
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease iii

TABLE OF CONTENTS (CONTINUED)

Page

3.3.16 Wetlands/Riparian Areas ........................................................................ 92

3.3.17 Wild Horses............................................................................................. 92

3.3.18 Wildlife.................................................................................................... 95

3.3.18.1 Big Game.................................................................................. 95

3.3.18.2 Other Mammals........................................................................ 102

3.3.18.3 Raptors ..................................................................................... 105

3.3.18.4 Upland Game Birds.................................................................. 107

3.3.18.5 Other Birds ............................................................................... 107

3.3.18.6 Amphibians, Reptiles, and Fish ............................................... 110

4.0 ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES........................................................................... 111

4.1 AIR QUALITY AND NOISE.................................................................................. 112

4.1.1 Air Quality ................................................................................................ 112

4.1.1.1 Proposed Action ......................................................................... 112

4.1.1.2 No Action Alternative ................................................................ 116

4.1.1.3 Residual Impacts ........................................................................ 116

4.1.1.4 Cumulative Impacts.................................................................... 116

4.1.2 Noise ......................................................................................................... 118

4.1.2.1 Proposed Action ......................................................................... 118

4.1.2.2 No Action Alternative ................................................................ 119

4.1.2.3 Residual Impacts ........................................................................ 119

4.1.2.4 Cumulative Impacts.................................................................... 119

4.2 CULTURAL RESOURCES .................................................................................... 120

4.2.1 Proposed Action ........................................................................................ 120

4.2.2 No Action Alternative ............................................................................... 121

4.2.3 Residual Impacts ....................................................................................... 121

4.2.4 Cumulative Impacts................................................................................... 122

4.3 GEOLOGY AND GEOLOGIC HAZARDS............................................................ 122

4.3.1 Proposed Action ........................................................................................ 122

4.3.2 No Action Alternative ............................................................................... 126

4.3.3 Residual Impacts ....................................................................................... 126

4.3.4 Cumulative Impacts................................................................................... 126

4.4 HEALTH AND SAFETY (TRANSPORTATION)................................................. 127

4.4.1 Proposed Action ........................................................................................ 127

4.4.2 No Action Alternative ............................................................................... 128

4.4.3 Residual Impacts ....................................................................................... 129

4.4.4 Cumulative Impacts................................................................................... 129

4.5 LAND RESOURCES AND USE............................................................................. 129

4.5.1 Proposed Action ........................................................................................ 129

4.5.2 No Action Alternative ............................................................................... 130
iv Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

TABLE OF CONTENTS (CONTINUED)

Page

4.5.3 Residual Impacts ....................................................................................... 130

4.5.4 Cumulative Impacts................................................................................... 130

4.6 MINERALS (SOLID AND FLUID)........................................................................ 131

4.6.1 Proposed Action ........................................................................................ 131

4.6.2 No Action Alternative ............................................................................... 133

4.6.3 Residual Impacts ....................................................................................... 133

4.6.4 Cumulative Impacts................................................................................... 134

4.7 NATIVE AMERICAN RELIGIOUS CONCERNS ................................................ 134

4.7.1 Proposed Action ........................................................................................ 134

4.7.2 No Action Alternative ............................................................................... 134

4.7.3 Residual Impacts ....................................................................................... 135

4.7.4 Cumulative Impacts................................................................................... 135

4.8 RANGELAND AND LIVESTOCK GRAZING ..................................................... 135

4.8.1 Proposed Action ........................................................................................ 135

4.8.2 No Action Alternative ............................................................................... 136

4.8.3 Residual Impacts ....................................................................................... 137

4.8.4 Cumulative Impacts................................................................................... 137

4.9 RECREATION......................................................................................................... 138

4.9.1 Proposed Action ........................................................................................ 138

4.9.2 No Action Alternative ............................................................................... 140

4.9.3 Residual Impacts ....................................................................................... 141

4.9.4 Cumulative Impacts................................................................................... 141

4.10 SOCIOECONOMICS ............................................................................................ 142

4.10.1 Proposed Action ...................................................................................... 142

4.10.2 No Action Alternative ............................................................................. 144

4.10.3 Residual Impacts ..................................................................................... 145

4.10.4 Cumulative Impacts................................................................................. 145

4.11 SOIL RESOURCES............................................................................................... 146

4.11.1 Proposed Action ...................................................................................... 146

4.11.2 No Action Alternative ............................................................................. 147

4.11.3 Residual Impacts ..................................................................................... 147

4.11.4 Cumulative Impacts................................................................................. 147

4.12 THREATENED, ENDANGERED, CANDIDATE, PROPOSED, AND

SENSITIVE SPECIES ........................................................................................ 148

4.12.1 Proposed Action ...................................................................................... 148

4.12.1.1 Black-footed Ferrets................................................................. 148

4.12.1.2 Bald Eagle ................................................................................ 149

4.12.1.3 BLM-sensitive Species.............................................................. 149

4.12.2 No Action Alternative ............................................................................. 150
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease v

TABLE OF CONTENTS (CONTINUED)

Page

4.12.3 Residual Impacts ..................................................................................... 150

4.12.4 Cumulative Impacts................................................................................. 151

4.13 VEGETATION (INCLUDING INVASIVE SPECIES) ........................................ 151

4.13.1 Proposed Action ...................................................................................... 151

4.13.2 No Action Alternative ............................................................................. 154

4.13.3 Residual Impacts ..................................................................................... 154

4.13.4 Cumulative Impacts................................................................................. 154

4.14 WASTES (HAZARDOUS AND SOLID) ............................................................. 155

4.14.1 Proposed Action ...................................................................................... 155

4.14.2 No Action Alternative ............................................................................. 156

4.14.3 Residual Impacts ..................................................................................... 156

4.14.4 Cumulative Impacts................................................................................. 157

4.15 WATER RESOURCES.......................................................................................... 157

4.15.1 Surface Water Resources ........................................................................ 157

4.15.1.1 Proposed Action ....................................................................... 157

4.15.1 2 No Action Alternative .............................................................. 158

4.15.1.3 Residual Impacts ...................................................................... 159

4.15.1.4 Cumulative Impacts.................................................................. 159

4.15.2 Groundwater Resources .......................................................................... 160

4.15.2.1 Proposed Action ....................................................................... 160

4.15.2.2 No Action Alternative .............................................................. 162

4.15.2.3 Residual Impacts ...................................................................... 162

4.15.2.4 Cumulative Impacts.................................................................. 163

4.16 WETLANDS AREAS............................................................................................ 164

4.16.1 Proposed Action ...................................................................................... 164

4.16.2 No Action Alternative ............................................................................. 165

4.16.3 Residual Impacts ..................................................................................... 165

4.16.4 Cumulative Impacts................................................................................. 165

4.17 WILD HORSES ..................................................................................................... 166

4.17.1 Proposed Action ...................................................................................... 166

4.17.2 No Action Alternative ............................................................................. 167

4.17.3 Residual Impacts ..................................................................................... 167

4.17.4 Cumulative Impacts................................................................................. 167

4.18 WILDLIFE............................................................................................................. 168

4.18.1 Proposed Action ...................................................................................... 168

4.18.1.1 Big Game.................................................................................. 168

4.18.1.2 Other Mammals........................................................................ 170

4.18.1.3 Raptors ..................................................................................... 171

4.18.1.4 Upland Game Birds.................................................................. 172
vi Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

TABLE OF CONTENTS (CONTINUED)

Page

4.18.1.5 Other Birds ............................................................................... 174

4.18.1.6 Amphibians, Reptiles, and Fish ............................................... 175

4.18.2 No Action Alternative ............................................................................. 175

4.18.3 Residual Impacts ..................................................................................... 175

4.18.4 Cumulative Impacts................................................................................. 176

4.19 MITIGATION MEASURES.................................................................................. 184

4.20 IRREVERSIBLE AND IRRETRIEVABLE COMMITMENT OF

RESOURCES...................................................................................................... 189

4.20 SHORT-TERM USE OF THE ENVIRONMENT VERSUS LONG-TERM

PRODUCTIVITY ............................................................................................... 190

5.0 RECORD OF PERSONS, GROUPS, AND GOVERNMENTAL AGENCIES

CONTACTED................................................................................................................. 191

6.0 REFERENCES..................................................................................................................... 193

APPENDIX A: STANDARD COAL LEASE FORM AND SPECIAL LEASE

STIPULATIONS

LIST OF FIGURES

Page

Figure 1.1 General Project Location...................................................................................... 2

Figure 2.1 Mineral Ownership Within the TMRT ................................................................ 16

Figure 2.2 Typical Surface Support Facilities Layout........................................................... 22

Figure 2.3 Major Transportation Systems ............................................................................. 23

Figure 2.4 Powerline System................................................................................................. 25

Figure 2.5 Proposed Mine Access Roads .............................................................................. 28

Figure 2.6 Typical Continuous Mining Equipment............................................................... 31

Figure 2.7 Typical Longwall Panel with Main Entry and Submain Entry............................ 32
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease vii

LIST OF FIGURES (CONTINUED)

Page

Figure 2.8 Typical Longwall Mining System....................................................................... 34

Figure 2.9 Close-up of Major Components of Longwall Mining System............................ 35

Figure 2.10 Typical Trough Subsidence Due to Longwall Mining........................................ 35

Figure 3.1 Air Quality CIAA................................................................................................ 61

Figure 3.2 Location of the Point of Rocks to South Pass Wagon Road ............................... 65

Figure 3.3 Surface Landownership in the TMRT Area and Vicinity................................... 69

Figure 3.4 Oil and Gas Potential Within the TMRT and Vicinity ....................................... 71

Figure 3.5 Livestock Grazing Allotment Within the TMRT Area and CIAA ..................... 74

Figure 3.6 Location of CDNST ............................................................................................ 76

Figure 3.7 Soil Map Units Within the TMRT and CIAA..................................................... 80

Figure 3.8 Major Vegetation Communities Within the TMRT and CIAA (as of

January 2000) ...................................................................................................... 87

Figure 3.9 Surface Water Drainages and Features Located Within the TMRT and

CIAA ................................................................................................................... 90

Figure 3.10 Potential Wetlands Located Within the TMRT and CIAA (as of 1983)............. 93

Figure 3.11 Great Divide Basin Wild Horse Herd Management Area................................... 94

Figure 3.12 Pronghorn Antelope Range Within the TMRT................................................... 97

Figure 3.13 Pronghorn Antelope Range Within the CIAA .................................................... 98

Figure 3.14 Mule Deer Range Within the TMRT and Vicinity ............................................. 100

Figure 3.15 Mule Deer Range Within the CIAA.................................................................... 101

Figure 3.16 Elk Range Within the TMRT and Vicinity ......................................................... 103

Figure 3.17 Elk Range Within the CIAA ............................................................................... 104

Figure 3.18 Raptor Nests Within the TMRT and Vicinity..................................................... 106
viii Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

LIST OF FIGURES (CONTINUED)

Page

Figure 3.19 Greater Sage-grouse Leks Within the TMRT ..................................................... 108

Figure 3.20 Greater Sage-grouse Leks Within the CIAA ...................................................... 109

LIST OF TABLES

Page

Table 1.1 Potential Federal, State, and Local Agencies and Authorizing Actions,

TMRT LBA Project, 2003 ................................................................................. 6

Table 2.1 Description of TMRT......................................................................................... 19

Table 2.2 Acres Affected by the Proposed Action............................................................. 20

Table 2.3 Typical Major Equipment .................................................................................. 29

Table 3.1 Critical Elements of the Human Environment ................................................... 55

Table 3.2 Selected National and Wyoming Air Quality Standards.................................... 58

Table 3.3 Comparison of Measured Noise Levels with Commonly Heard Sounds,

TMRT and CIAA, 2003 ..................................................................................... 63

Table 3.4 Federal Threatened, Endangered, Proposed, and Candidate Species and

Their Potential Occurrence Within the Proposed Project Area, 2003 ............... 82

Table 3.5 BLM Sensitive Species and Habitat Preference, Rock Springs Field

Office, TMRT and CIAA, 2003......................................................................... 85

Table 3.6 Major Vegetation Communities Within the TMRT and CIAA ......................... 88

Table 4.1 Acres of Disturbance by CIAA for Big Game Species....................................... 177

Table 5.1 Record of Persons, Groups, and Governmental Agencies Contacted................. 191

Table 5.2 List of Preparers .................................................................................................. 192

Table 5.3 List of Contributors and Reviewers .................................................................... 192
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease ix

LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS AND ACRONYMS

APLIC Avian Power Line Interaction Committee

AQD Air Quality Division

AUM Animal unit month

BCC Bridger Coal Company

BLM Bureau of Land Management

BTU British Thermal Unit

CD/GWII Continental Divide/Greater Wamsutter II

CDNST Continental Divide National Scenic Trail

CERCLA Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability

Act of 1980

C.F.R. Code of Federal Regulations

CIAA Cumulative impact analysis area

CO Carbon monoxide

dBA A-weighted decibels

DFP Desolation Flats natural gas field development project

EA Environmental assessment

EIS Environmental impact statement

EPA U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

FEMA Federal Emergency Management Agency

FLPMA Federal Land Policy and Management Act of 1976

GDBWHMA Great Divide Basin Wild Horse Herd Management Area

kV Kilovolt

LBA Lease-by-application

LOM Life-of-mine

LQD Land Quality Division

MER Maximum economic recovery

MLA Mineral Leasing Act of 1920

MSDS Material Safety Data Sheets

MSHA Mining Safety and Health Administration

MW Megawatt

NAAQS National Ambient Air Quality Standards

NEPA National Environmental Policy Act

NMHCs Nonmethane hydrocarbons

NO2 Nitrogen dioxide

NOX Nitrogen oxide

NPDES National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System

NRCS Natural Resources Conservation Service

NRHP National Register of Historic Places

OSM Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement

P.M. Principal Meridian

PM2.5 Particulate matter less than 2.5 microns in diameter
x Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS AND ACRONYMS (CONTINUED)

PM10 Particulate matter less than 10 microns in diameter

ppm Parts per million

PSD Prevention of Significant Deterioration

R2P2 Resource Recovery and Protection Plan

RMP Resource Management Plan

ROD Record of Decision

ROW Right-of-way

SARA Superfund Amendments and Reauthorization Act of 1976

SCS Soil Conservation Service

SHWD Solid and Hazardous Waste Division

SMCRA Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act of 1977

SO2 Sulfur dioxide

SPCCP Spill Prevention, Control, and Countermeasure Plan

TDS Total dissolved solids

TEC&P Threatened, endangered, candidate, and proposed

TMRT Ten Mile Rim Tract

TSS Total suspended solids

U.S.C. United States Code

USDOC U.S. Department of Commerce

USFWS U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

VOC Volatile organic compounds

WAAQS Wyoming Ambient Air Quality Standards

WAQS&R Wyoming Air Quality Standards and Regulations

WDEA Wyoming Division of Economic Analysis

WDEQ Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality

WGFD Wyoming Game and Fish Department

WNDD Wyoming Natural Diversity Database

WOGCC Wyoming Oil and Gas Conservation Commission

WOSLI Wyoming Office of State Lands and Investment

WQD Water Quality Division

W.S. Wyoming Statute

WSEO Wyoming State Engineer's Office
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

1.0 INTRODUCTION

1.1 BACKGROUND

On September 28, 2001, Bridger Coal Com pany (BCC) filed an application with the Bureau of

Land Management (BLM) for federal coal reserves located adjacent to the existing Jim Bridger

Mine in north-central Sweetwater County, Wyoming. On February 11, 2003, BCC filed a

modified application with the BLM at the W yoming State Office in Cheyenne for a reduced

lease area (refer to Figure 1.1). This application was m ade pursuant to provisions of the leaseby-application (LBA) regulations found in Title 43 Code of Federal Regulations (C.F.R.)

3425.1. The tract applied for, known as the Ten Mile Rim Tract (TMRT), contains federal-,

state-, and private-owned coal reserves. The BLM assigned the federal lease area case num ber

WYW-154595. In addition to the federal LBA action, the project would also require BLM to

issue a right-of-way (ROW ) associated with the LBA for a portion of a new powerline required

for the project. The ROW applications would be made pursuant to Title 43 C.F.R., Part 2800,

that govern the federal approval and issuance of ROW applications.

The TMRT area and the associated ROW would be located north of Interstate 80, approxim ately

10 mi north of Point of Rocks, approxim ately 25 m i east of Rock Springs, and approxim ately

70 mi west of Rawlins, W yoming (refer to Figur e 1.1). The TMRT area is located in the area

administered by the BLM Rock Springs Field Office.

BCC proposes to lease federal coal for a new underground m ine located adjacent to the existing

Jim Bridger Mine, a surface coal m ine operation. According to LBA docum ents submitted by

BCC, the coal would be required to provide fuel to the nearby Jim Bridger Power Plant for an

additional 15 to 20 years. The surface ownership pattern within the TMRT area is checkerboard,

where even-numbered sections are owned by the federal government, odd-numbered sections are

privately owned, and select even-numbered sections are owned by the State of W yoming.

(Section 2.0 further describes surface and m ineral ownership.) The Jim Bridger Mine has an
2 Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

Figure 1.1 General Project Location.
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease 3

approved m ine and reclam ation plan and perm it (No. 338-T5) issued by the W yoming

Department of Environmental Quality/Land Quality Division (W DEQ/LQD) and other pertinent

permits and approvals issued by other federal, state, and local regulatory agencies. As part of the

federal coal-leasing process, BLM will evaluate the tract configuration and m ay add or subtract

federal coal to avoid bypassing federal coal or to otherwise achieve m aximum econom ic

recovery. BLM will also evaluate the application to define the characteristics of the federal coal

reserves and to evaluate the fair market value of the tract. No vertical shafts or inclines would be

required to access the coal reserves. According to BCC, underground access to the coal reserves

within the TMRT area would be gained through access from the existing highwall area at Ram p

14 of the existing surface m ine. Under the Proposed Action, no new m ine facilities (such as

ventilation shafts or support equipm ent) would be required within the TMRT area. Associated

mine support facilities (e.g., buildings, roads, overland conveyor, powerlines, etc.) would be

located on lands that the applicant currently has legal access rights to or where legal access

would be secured. These facilities are described in m ore detail in Chapter 2.0 of this

environmental assessment (EA).

The federal governm ent maintains a policy to en courage private industry to develop and m ine

domestic energy reserves in an economically and environmentally sound manner. The Secretary

of the Interior has the responsibility to carry out this policy. Since the passage of the Mineral

Leasing Act of 1920 (MLA), as am ended, the U.S. Departm ent of the Interior, through its

implementing agency, the BLM, has been charged with administrating a leasing program that

would allow the private sector to mine federally owned coal reserves. Therefore, pursuant to the

MLA, "it is the continuing policy of the federal governm ent in the national interest to foster and

encourage private enterprises in 1) the deve lopment of economically sound and stable dom estic

mining, minerals . . . industries, 2) the orderly and econom ic development of dom estic mineral

resources, reserves . . . to help assure satisfaction of industrial, security, and environm ental

needs" (BLM 2001a:4). This policy is reaffirm ed in the BLM' s 2001 plan for the

implementation of the national energy policy (BLM 2001a).
4 Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

In addition, the Proposed Action would include the approval of one associated ROW for a

segment of a new powerline. This associated facility would be located outside of and near to the

TMRT, and this ROW would be necessary for im plementation of the Proposed Action. The

Federal Land Policy and Management Act of 1976 (FLPMA), as am ended (43 United States

Code [U.S.C.] §1701 et seq.), and promulgating regulations found in Title 43 C.F.R., Part 2800,

govern the federal approval and issuance of ROW applications for facilities such as the proposed

powerline.

Before the federal governm ent m ay hold a com petitive coal lease sale or issue the associated

ROW grant, the BLM m ust analyze the potential environm ental im pacts of issuing a lease or

ROW grant in accordance with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). To assess

potential im pacts of the Proposed Action, BLM conducted internal BLM and public scoping.

Public scoping was initiated on Novem ber 15, 2001, and concluded on Decem ber 31, 2001.

Based on public and BLM internal scoping com ments, BLM has decided to prepare an EA for

the Proposed Action. BLM also determ ined that no additional public scoping was necessary or

required as a result of the applicant' s 2003 revised application and reduction in the size of the

TMRT LBA area. This EA is prepared pursuant to NEPA, as am ended (42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.),

its im plementing regulations found in Title 40 C.F.R. Part 1500–1508, BLM' s National

Environmental Policy Act Handbook (H-1790-1) (BLM 1988), BLM' s desktop reference

Overview of BLM's NEPA Process (BLM 1996a), and Considering Cumulative Impacts Under

the National Environmental Policy Act (Council on Environmental Quality [CEQ] 1997).

This EA assesses the environmental impacts of the Proposed Action and appropriate alternatives,

including the No Action Alternative. The Proposed Action is strictly defined as the leasing and

mining of the federal coal reserves located w ithin the TMRT and the granting of one ROW for

the construction of a segm ent of powerline (required for the Proposed Action) that would cross

federal lands. This EA assesses the potential environm ental impacts of these actions on federal

lands but also includes the potential environm ental impacts associated with the construction and

mining activities that would occur on privately owned lands. W hile some of these associated
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease 5

activities would occur on privately owned lands, they are described as connected actions under

NEPA regulations and analyzed in this EA.

The BLM will use this analysis to make a decision whether or not to hold a com petitive, sealedbid lease sale and to issue a coal lease for the fe deral coal within the TMRT area. If a lease sale

is held, a lease will be issued to the highest bidde r, if a federal sale panel determ ines that the

highest bidder m eets or exceeds the fair m arket value as determ ined by BLM' s econom ic

evaluation and if the U.S. Departm ent of Justice determines that there are no antitrust violations

if the lease is issued to the highest bidder.

The Office of Surface Mining Reclam ation and Enforcement (OSM) is a cooperating agency on

the EA and will use this analysis to make decisions related to mining federal coal in this tract.

The Proposed Action would com ply with all relevant federal, state, and local laws and

regulations. Table 1.1 lists the potential authoriz ing actions required for project com pliance. In

addition, the Proposed Action would be operated in accordance with federal Mine Safety and

Health Adm inistration (MSHA) and W yoming Departm ent of Em ployment, Division of Mine

Inspections and Safety rules and regulations.

1.2 PURPOSE AND NEED

Coal production at the Jim Bridger Mine is slowing because existing privately and federally

leased coal reserves are becom ing too deep and uneconom ical to be recovered utilizing

conventional surface m ining m ethods (i.e., draglines). As a result, additional m inable coal

reserves are needed to m eet production requirem ents. Representatives of BCC plan to

supplement the decreasing supply of surface-m ined coal with the addition of adjacent

underground mining operations. The development of underground mining operations next to the

existing surface m ine would allow BCC to utili ze many of the existing support system s at the

Jim Bridger Mine (e.g., roads, overland conveyor, adm inistrative and m aintenance facilities),

thereby minimizing costs and disturbance to the environment.
6 Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

Table 1.1 Potential Federal, State, and Local Agencies and Authorizing Actions, TMRT

LBA Project, 2003.

Agency Nature of Action

U.S. Bureau of Land Management NEPA compliance

Coal lease

ROW easement

Lease authorization and surface use

U.S. Office of Surface Mining Reclamation

and Enforcement

Cooperating agency for NEPA compliance

Prepare mining plan decision document

Mine permit review

Assistant Secretary of the Interior Mineral Leasing Act of 1920 mine plan approval

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Review of potential impacts on federally listed

threatened, endangered, and candidate species

Wyoming Office of State Lands and

Investment

Coal lease on state land

Wyoming Department of Environmental

Quality, Land Quality Division

Permit to mine coal

Wyoming Department of Environmental

Quality, Air Quality Division

Amendment to air quality permit to operate

Wyoming Department of Environmental

Quality, Water Quality Division

National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System

(NPDES) permit

Storm Water Pollution Prevention permit and plan

Construction permit for drinking water system

Wyoming State Engineer's Office Surface water appropriation permit(s)

Groundwater appropriation permit(s)

Wyoming Game and Fish Department Review of potential impacts on game and fish

resources, including state-sensitive species

Wyoming Industrial Siting Counsel Review proposed project relative to applicable

Industrial Site Act regulations

Wyoming State Historic Preservation Office Consultation with BLM and review of potential

impacts on cultural resources

Sweetwater County Planning and Zoning

Department

Approval of land use change

Sweetwater County Road and Bridge

Department

Approval for powerline crossing of county road and

special use permit for new road intersection with

County Road 15

Sweetwater County Health Department Construction permit for septic system
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease 7

The Proposed Action is needed to allow the leasing and subsequent mining of federal coal within

the TMRT, and the approval of the associated federal ROW is necessary to facilitate said coal

mining for the nearby Jim Bridger Power Plant for the generation of electricity.

The Jim Bridger Mine started operations in 1971 and annually m ines approxim ately 5 to 6

million tons with approxim ately 350 em ployees. Since startup, m ore than 150 m illion tons of

coal have been m ined at the Jim Bridger Mine (W yoming State Geological Survey 1998). The

Jim Bridger Mine has been the prim ary supplier of coal to the nearby Jim Bridger Power Plant.

Depending on num erous factors such as electric load requirem ents, the power plant burns

approximately 9 m illion tons of coal per year (W yoming State Geological Survey 1998). The

Jim Bridger Power Plant will be obtaining the rem ainder of its required coal from other sources.

BCC indicates that the additional coal reserves w ithin the TMRT area will be needed within the

next 2 years in order for the company to meet fuel supply requirements for the power plant.

1.3 CONFORMANCE WITH LAND USE PLANS AND RELATIONSHIP TO

STATUTES, REGULATIONS, AND OTHER PLANS

1.3.1 BLM Resource Management Plan

The Green River Resource Managem ent Plan (RMP) and Record of Decision (ROD) (BLM

1997a) allows for coal leasing and developm ent. The Green River RMP provides land use

guidance for coal leasing within the project area. The exploration and developm ent of solid

leasable minerals (i.e., coal) is subject to the appropriate level of environm ental analysis. The

BLM Green River RMP and ROD (1997a:13) states:

The objective for management of the federal coal resources in the planning area is

to provide for both short- and long-range developm ent of federal coal, in an

orderly and tim ely m anner, consistent with the policies of the federal coal

management program, environmental integrity, national energy needs, and related

demands.

With appropriate lim itations and m itigation requirem ents for the protection of other resource

values, all BLM-adm inistered public lands and federal coal lands in the Green River planning
8 Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

area, except for those identified as closed, are open to coal resource inventory and exploration to

help identify coal resources and their development potential.

Federal coal lands within the Coal Occurrence and Development Potential area (that include the

TMRA area) are open to further consideration for coal leasing and developm ent (i.e., new

competitive leasing, em ergency leasing, lease m odification, and exchange proposals, under the

Federal Coal Management Program) with appropriate and necessary conditions and requirements

for protection of other land and resource values and uses. In addition, the LBA process would

conform with BLM coal developm ent objectiv es within the Green River-Ham s Fork Coal

Region.

The relevant management action from the Green River RMP and ROD (BLM 1997a:137) states

in part:

Federal coal lands within the Coal Occurrence and Developm ent Potential area

(about 422,000 acres) are open to further consideration for coal leasing and

development (i.e., new com petitive leasing, em ergency leasing, lease

modifications, and exchange proposal, under the Federal Coal Managem ent

Program) with appropriate and necessary conditions and requirem ents for

protection of other land and resource values and uses.

The Coal Occurrence and Developm ent Potential area is subject to continued field

investigations, studies, and evaluations to determine if certain methods of coal mining may occur

without having a significant long-te rm impact on wildlife, cultural, and watershed resources, in

general, and on threatened and endangered plant and anim al species and their essential habitats,

in particular. Such investigations, studies, and evaluations may be conducted on an as-needed or

case-by-case basis in reviewing individual coal leasing or developm ent proposals (e.g., m ine

plans) or, if opportunities or needs arise, area-wide studies m ay be conducted. These studies

include keeping resource databases current (e.g., where existing raptor nests becom e abandoned

or where new raptor nests become established, etc.), analysis of effects to wildlife and threatened

and endangered species habitats and populations, and the cum ulative effects of m ining

operations and other activities in the area. Consu ltation with other agencies (e.g., U.S. Fish and
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease 9

Wildlife Service [USFWS], Wyoming Game and Fish Department [WGFD], etc.) with interested

parties, and with industry will occur as needed or required.

A portion of the proposed powerline would require the issuance and approval of a ROW grant

from the BLM and would be in conform ance with the Green River Resource Area RMP and

ROD. The relevant m anagement objective from the Green River Resource Area RMP (BLM

1997a:128) states:

The objective for the m anagement of the lands and realty program are to:

1) manage the public lands to support the goals and objectives of other resource

programs; 2) respond to public demand for land use authorizations; and 3) acquire

administrative and public access where necessary.

The Green River RMP also states, "Public lands will be m ade available throughout the planning

area for rights-of-way perm its and leases (for utility and transportation system s)" (BLM

1997a:86).

1.3.2 Existing NEPA Documents

Existing NEPA documents that may be related to the proposed project includes the following:

• the BLM Green River RMP and environm ental im pact statem ent (EIS) (BLM

1992, 1996b),

• the BLM Green River RMP and ROD (1997a),

• air quality analysis from the BLM Continental Divide/W amsutter II natural gas

project EIS (BLM 1999a, 1999b),

• air quality analysis from the Desolation Flats natural gas field developm ent

project (DFP) draft EIS (BLM 2003a),

• the BLM coal exploration drilling project EA of the TMRT (2001b),

• the BLM Jim Bridger Power Plant flue gas de-sulfurization pond expansion

project EA (2002a), and

• the BLM final EIS for the regional and site specific coal developm ent for

southwest Wyoming (BLM 1979b).
10 Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

The BLM Green River RMP and ROD, referenced in Section 1.3.1 above, presents the

management plan currently being adm inistered in this RMP. This EA is tiered to the BLM

Green River RMP (BLM 1992, 1996b, 1997a). The Green River RMP provides planning and

objectives for the m anagement of public lands in the BLM Rock Springs Field Office Area,

including the leasing of solid mineral materials and issuance of ROW grants.

1.3.3 Review of Select Permits, Approvals, and Authorizations

Described below are a few of the m ajor perm its, approvals, and authorizations that would be

required of BCC prior to the initiation of underground m ining operations within the TMRT area.

These descriptions do not address every regulatory or adm inistrative requirement and provide

only a brief overview of som e of the perm its, approvals, and authorizations required for the

Proposed Action. All permits, approvals, and authorizations listed in Table 1.1 would have to be

addressed by the appropriate regulatory agencies.

1.3.3.1 OSM Requirements

The Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act of 1977 (SMCRA), as am ended, gives the

OSM primary responsibility to administer programs that regulate surface coal m ining operations

and the surface effects of underground coal m ining operations in the U.S. Pursuant to

Section 503 of SMCRA, the W DEQ/LQD developed and the Secretary of the Interior approved

WDEQ/LQD's perm anent regulatory program . This approval authorizes W DEQ/LQD to

regulate surface coal m ining operations and the surface effects of underground coal m ining on

private and state lands within the State of Wyoming.

Pursuant to the cooperative agreem ent, federal coal lease holders in W yoming m ust subm it a

permit application to OSM and WDEQ/LQD for all proposed mining and reclamation operations

on federal lands in the state. W DEQ/LQD reviews the permit application package to ensure that

it complies with the approved W yoming state perm anent program and other state statutes. If it

complies, W DEQ/LQD issues the applicant a perm it to conduct coal m ining operations (i.e.,
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease 11

permit to mine coal). OSM and other federal ag encies review the permit application package to

ensure that it contains the necessary inform ation for com pliance with the coal lease, the MLA,

NEPA, and other applicable federal laws and their attendant regulations. OSM recommends one

of the following to the Assistant Secretary of the Interior, Land and Minerals Managem ent:

(1) approval of the MLA m ine plan, (2) approval of the MLA m ine plan with conditions, or

(3) disapproval of the MLA m ine plan. Before m aking a recom mendation regarding the m ine

plan, OSM obtains input from certain other federal agencies, including the appropriate federal

surface management agency.

WDEQ/LQD enforces the environmental performance standards and permit requirements during

the m ine's operation and has prim ary authority in environm ental em ergencies. OSM retains

oversight responsibilities for this enforcement. The surface management agency (i.e., BLM) has

authority in em ergency situations in which W DEQ/LQD or OSM inspectors cannot act before

environmental harm or damage occurs.

1.3.3.2 WDEQ Requirements

As discussed above, the W DEQ/LQD adm inisters and regulates surface coal m ining and

reclamation operations and the surface effects of underground coal m ining operation in

accordance with SMCRA and the Wyoming Environmental Quality Act. The W DEQ/LQD

reviews and approves all proposed m ining and reclam ation plans under its jurisdiction. In

addition, other W DEQ divisions (i.e., W ater Quality Division [W QD] and Air Quality Division

[AQD]) would review specific portions of the pr oposed mine and reclam ation plan, and, if the

plans conform to and com ply with applicable rules and regulations, specific environm ental

permits would be issued by the appropriate agency.

1.3.3.3 Wyoming State Engineer's Office (WSEO) Requirements

The W SEO is responsible for adm inistering and regulating water resources within W yoming,

including issuing permits and appropriations for all surface- and groundwater resources and the
12 Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

adjudication of water rights issues and disputes. The W SEO would review specific applications

filed by BCC for the appropriation of surface water and groundwater that would be utilized for

the Proposed Action. The WSEO would issue permits and appropriations in accordance with the

applicant's needs and available water resources.

1.3.3.4 Wyoming Office of State Lands and Investment (WOSLI) Requirements

The WOSLI is responsible for the adm inistration and leasing of all subsurface m inerals on State

of Wyoming lands. As of March 1, 2001, BCC had applied for and received a lease (State Lease

#0-040779) for state-owned coal located in Section 36, T22N, R101W . In addition to securing

the state lease, BCC has also secured a lease from the owner of the private coal reserves within

the TMRT.

1.3.3.5 Sweetwater County Requirements

Sweetwater County administers land use within the county in accordance with the approved land

use plan, issues road encroachm ent authorizations, special use perm its for roads, and issues

permits for septic systems. BCC would apply for all necessary permits, land use changes, and/or

authorizations from the appropriate Sweetwater County agency or departm ent for the specific

program to be undertaken.

1.3.4 Public Involvement

On Novem ber 9, 2001, pursuant to NEPA regulations, BLM released a scoping notice to the

public. In addition, a Scoping Notice was published in the Federal Register on Decem ber 21,

2001. Ten com ment letters were received in re sponse to the scoping notice. In addition to

releasing the scoping notice, BLM held a pub lic meeting on December 12, 2001. As a result of

BLM, OSM, and public input, the following issues and agency concerns have been identified:

• subsidence;

• existing oil and gas leases that overlap the LBA area and potential for concurrent

development;
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease 13

• wildlife considerations including potential affects to fossorial wildlife (e.g.,

white-tailed prairie dogs, burrowing owls) and greater sage-grouse;

• listed species and species proposed for listing, candidate species, m igratory birds,

and wetland or riparian areas;

• protection of ephemeral drainages;

• socioeconomic impacts including workforce and housing requirements;

• possible impact to Point of Rocks water source;

• possible effects of construction activity and blasting on residences and businesses

located in Point of Rocks; and

• maintaining public access to public lands around the mine and power plant.
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease 15

2.0 THE PROPOSED ACTION AND ALTERNATIVES

2.1 PROPOSED ACTION

2.1.1 Overview

As discussed in Chapter 1, BCC has m odified their original LBA area to reduce the am ount of

federal coal acreage based on exploratory core drill results. The following Proposed Action

reflects these changes. Under the Proposed Action, coal on federal lands within the TMRT

would be offered for lease at a com petitive sale, subject to standard and special BLM coal lease

stipulations (refer to Appendix A). An estim ated 44 million tons of in-place coal reserves exist

within the federal lands in the TMRT area, and an estim ated 121.5 million tons of in-place coal

reserves exist within the entire TMRT area (including federal, state, and private m ineral rights)

that would be m ined over an approxim ate 15- to 20-year period. Because the TMRT is located

within an area of checkerboard coal ownership (a pattern of alternating sections of federal, state,

and private mineral rights), the use of federal land is needed for optimal mine development (refer

to Figure 2.1). Under the Proposed Action, all coal within the TMRT would be m ined utilizing

underground longwall m ining technologies, and a m inimal am ount of surface-disturbing

activities would occur. A majority of the additional surface-disturbing activities for mine-related

facilities (i.e., surface support facilities, powerline, overland conveyor, and access road) would

occur within areas that have already been disturbed within the existing Jim Bridger Mine lease

and m ine perm it area. An exception would be for a separate electric powerline required for

underground mining equipment and surface support facilities. These areas are discussed in m ore

detail later in this chapter.

Underground mining operations would begin at the highwall near Ram p 14 where continuous

mining machines would be utilized to establish the m ain entry and working room for longwall

mining equipment. Once adequate working room has been established, underground longwall

mining equipm ent would be assem bled and put into service. Under the Proposed Action,
16 Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

Figure 2.1 Mineral Ownership Within the TMRT.
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease 17

longwall mining would account for a m ajority of the coal m ined from the TMRT. Estim ated

production from the underground m ine could range from 4.5 to 5.5 m illion tons per year at full

production for the next 15-20 years. Once the coal is mined, it would be loaded on to an electric

conveyor system and transported directly to the Jim Bridger Power Plant, located approxim ately

4-5 mi south of the TMRT.

2.1.2 Mine Permit and Other Required Permits/Approvals

Under the Proposed Action, BCC (if the successful bidder) would collect and analyze detailed

baseline environmental information for the TMRT and associated ROW area. The m ine permit

amendment application would be prepared in accordance with W DEQ/LQD rules, regulations,

and guidelines. W hereas Chapters 3.0 and 4.0 of this EA presents generalized environm ental

baseline information for the TMRT area, the m ine permit amendment application would include

detailed site-specific baseline inform ation collected during field surveys for cultural resources,

soils, vegetation, wildlife, hydrology, etc., including a m ine and reclam ation plan. The

application would also include site-specific m onitoring and m itigation m easures, as well as

detailed calculations for the reclam ation perf ormance bond. The am ount of the reclam ation

performance bond would be reviewed and, if appropriate, approved by W DEQ/LQD to ensure

that the m ine operator (i.e., BCC) com plies with all the requirem ents of the Wyoming

Environmental Quality Act and the W DEQ/LQD perm it and that reclam ation requirem ents

would be met.

Under W DEQ/LQD perm itting regulations, the public would be provided with several

opportunities to comment on the m ine and reclamation permit amendment application prior to a

final decision on the permit application by WDEQ/LQD.

BCC (if the successful bidder) would also prepare all necessary inform ation and would apply for

any required permits/approvals including but not limited to those presented in Table 1.1. Mining

operations would not begin within the TMRT until all required perm its/approvals are obtained

from the appropriate regulatory agencies.
18 Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

2.1.3 Resource Recovery and Protection Plan

As part of the Proposed Action, BCC (if the successful bidder) would prepare a detailed

Resource Recovery and Protection Plan (R2P2) for BLM. The R2P2 would describe how the

proposed operation would m eet MLA requirem ents for due diligent developm ent, production,

resource recovery and protection (i.e., efficient recovery of the federal coal reserves), continued

operation, maximum economic recovery, and the rules prom ulgated in Title 43 C.F.R. Part 3480

for the life-of-mine (LOM). MLA requires that, before conducting any federal coal development

or mining operations on federal coal lease, the operator must submit an R2P2 within 3 years of

the effective date of the lease. The lessee is obligated to m ine the lease according to the

approved R2P2, respective lease terms, and appropriate rules and regulations.

2.1.4 Description of the TMRT Area

The TMRT area is located in portions of T21N, R100W ; T22N, R100W ; T21N, R101W ; and

T22N, R101W ; 6th Principal Meridian (P.M.) in Sweetwater County, W yoming. The TMRT

includes approxim ately 5,916 acres, of which 2,242 acres of coal reserves are owned by the

federal government and administered by the BLM, 640 acres of coal reserves are owned by the

State of W yoming and adm inistered by the W OSLI, and 3,034 acres of coal reserves are

privately owned (refer to Figure 2.1). A detailed description of m ineral and surface ownership

for the TMRT is presented in Table 2.1. A com bined estimated 121.5 m illion tons of federal-,

state-, and private-owned in-place coal reserves are located within the entire TMRT. A m ore

accurate estimate of federal coal reserves would be included in the tract sale notices, if this EA is

approved and if a com petitive sale is held. The Proposed Action assum es that the applicant

(BCC) would be the successful bidder if a com petitive sale is held. This EA has been prepared

on the basis of the mining operations proposed by BCC.
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease 19

Table 2.1 Description of TMRT.1

Legal Location Acres Mineral Owner Surface Owner

T21N, R100W

Section 6: Lots 8-14, S2NE, SENW, E2SW, SE 649.88 BLM BLM

T22N, R100W

Section 30: Lots 5-8, E2W2, E2 633.56 BLM BLM

Section 31: Lots 1-4, E2W2, E2 633.36 UPLRC RSGA

T21N, R101W

Section 1: Lots 1-4, S2N2, S2 640.16 UPLRC UPLRC

Section 3: Lots 1 and 2, S2NE 160.03 UPLRC UPLRC

T22N, R101W

Section 25: All 640.00 UPLRC UPLRC

Section 26: Lots 1-16 639.22 BLM BLM

Section 27: E2 320.00 UPLRC UPLRC

Section 34: Lots 1, 2, 6, 7, 8, and 13, NESE,

SWSE

319.52 BLM BLM

Section 35: All 640.00 UPLRC UPLRC

Section 36: All 640.00 State BLM

Total Combined Acreage 5,915.73

Mineral Lease Acreage by Owner 640.00 State

2,242.18 BLM --

3,033.55 UPLRC --

Total 5,915.73

1 BLM = federal, Bureau of Land Managem ent; RSGA = private, Rock Springs Gr azing Association; State =

State of Wyoming; UPLRC = private, Union Pacific Land Resources Corporation (succeeded in interest by

Anadarko Land Corporation).

2.1.5 Mine Plan

The mine plan includes inform ation about the proposed m ine facilities (including the associated

facilities necessary to m ine the coal); m ine equipment; background inform ation about the coal

reserves; information about the m ining methods; and associated activities such as treatm ent of

mine-water; water requirem ents; control of toxic, hazardous, and solid wastes m aterial;

subsidence and associated reclam ation; reclam ation of m ine facilities; avoidance of public

nuisance and endangerm ent; em ployment; and general environm ental protection requirem ents.

As with most underground coal m ines, surface disturbance would be lim ited to the construction
20 Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

of associated facilities (such as the surface support facilities, overland conveyor system , access

road, and powerlines) and areas disturbed due to m ine subsidence. BCC (if the successful

bidder) would utilize both previously undisturbed and disturbed areas for the construction of the

associated facilities. Approxim ately 28 acres of new disturbance (i.e., previously undisturbed

areas) and 37 acres of existing disturbed area (i.e., previously disturbed areas) would be utilized

for the construction of the associated facilities. In addition, an estim ated 59 acres of new

disturbance (i.e., previously undisturbed areas) would be disturbed due to the repair of potential

subsidence from underground m ining (refer to Table 2.2). Therefore, a total of 124 acres of

disturbed and undisturbed area would be affected by the Proposed Action--37 acres of previously

disturbed area would be affected and 87 acres of previously undisturbed areas would be affected

(refer to Table 2.2).

2.1.5.1 Location and Description of Additional Mine Facilities

Prior to the initiation of underground m ining operations, additional m ine facilities would be

required and would be constructed. These facilities include surface support facilities, an

Table 2.2 Acres Affected by the Proposed Action.

Location of Proposed Disturbance1

Component of Proposed Action

Previously

Disturbed Areas

(acres)

Previously

Undisturbed Areas

(acres)

Total

(acres)

Surface support facilities 15 0 15

Overland conveyor system and temporary staging area 20 23 43

Powerline and temporary staging area 2 2 4

Mine access roads 0 3 3

Surface disturbance due to underground mining 0 59 59

Total by Category 37 87 124

1 Includes areas located inside and outside of the existing mine permit area.
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease 21

overland conveyor, a powerline, and access roads. All of the associated facilities would be

constructed within the existing BCC m ine permit boundary, except for 6 acres required for a

segment of the powerline that requires an ROW application and is discussed later in this section.

Surface Support Facilities. The proposed surface support facilities would be located within the

previously disturbed area of the Jim Bridger Mine, so there would be no new disturbance as a

result of these facilities. An appropriately sized area (approxim ately 15 acres) would be graded

and leveled on the nearby spoil pile to allow the construction of the required surface support

facilities. The surface facilities that would be lo cated on the north side of Ram p 14 and would

include an office, a warehouse, an employee bathhouse, a lighted parking area, a material storage

area, associated structures such as water storage and treatm ent equipment, an electric substation,

a diesel fuel tank, and a septic system with septic tanks and absorption field for the treatm ent of

waste water from the bathhouse and office. A conceptual layout of the underground m ine

surface support facilities is presented in Figure 2.2 and would be located as illustrated on Figure

2.3.

Overland Conveyor System. A covered electric overland conveyor system would be utilized to

transport the coal from the underground operations to the Jim Bridger Power Plant.

Approximately 17,000 ft of the new overland conveyor (60- or 72-inch wide) would be

constructed from the m ine portal at Ram p 14 to the existing Truck Dum p Station #2 (refer to

Figure 2.3). From Truck Dum p Station #2, the existing overland conveyor system would

transport the coal the rem aining 20,000 ft to th e Jim Bridger Power Plant. Installation of the

proposed overland conveyor system would be com pletely within the existing Jim Bridger Mine

lease and permit area; therefore, no additional ROW grants from the BLM or other parties would

be required for construction of the proposed overland conveyor system.

Assuming the full 100-ft wide construction area would be disturbed by construction activities,

approximately 7,000 ft (or 16 acres) of the ne w 17,000-ft overland conveyor system would be

located on previously disturbed lands and approxim ately 10,000 linear ft (or 23 acres) of new

conveyor system would be located on previously undisturbed land.
22 Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

Figure 2.2 Typical Surface Support Facilities Layout.
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease 23

Figure 2.3 Major Transportation Systems.
24 Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

The new overland conveyor system would be si milar to the existing overland conveyor system

utilized at the Jim Bridger Mine. Use of th e overland conveyor system would greatly reduce

particulate em issions (i.e., dust) typically generated during the transportation of coal by haul

trucks. The coal would also be sprayed with a light coating of water and/or water-based dust

suppressant agent, and the use of semicircular metal covers on the overland conveyor and the use

of enclosed transfer points would further reduce coal dust emissions from the operation.

Construction activities would be conducted utilizing standard construction techniques and

equipment. Construction of the new overland conveyor system would involve the following:

• salvaging available topsoil from areas that have been previously undisturbed by

other mining or mining-related activities,

• construction of a road-type surface for placement of the conveyor components,

• excavations for concrete footings for conveyor transfer points and anchors, and

• installation of major conveyor components (attached to the side of the conveyor)

and the installation of the electrical and control system.

In addition, a temporary construction staging area, located near Ram p 14, would be required for

a single (4-acre) material staging area. The temporary material staging area would be located on

a previously disturbed area and would not result in any new disturbance.

Powerline. Approxim ately 38,500 ft (7.3 m i) of new and upgraded 34.5-kilovolt (kV)

distribution powerline would be required for the Proposed Action to feed surface support

facilities and underground m ining equipm ent. The approxim ate location of the new and

upgraded 34.5-kV distribution powerline is illustrated on Figure 2.4. Starting at the existing Jim

Bridger Substation located southwest of the Jim Bridger Power Plant, approxim ately 7,000 ft of

existing Bridger to Superior 34.5-kV powerline would be upgraded with new phase and neutral

conductors. At a power pole structure locat ion near the SE1/4 SE1/4 of Section 35, T21N,

R101W, a new direct-feed electrical tap would be constructed from the existing Bridger to

Superior transmission powerline. From the new tap, approxim ately 31,500 ft of new 34.5-kV
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease 25

Figure 2.4 Powerline System.
26 Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

powerline would be constructed to the proposed Surface Support Facilities area located in

Ramp 14. An electric substation would also be installed at the Surface Support Facilities area

located at Ramp 14.

Approximately 4,900 ft of the new powerline would cross BLM-administered land in Section 36,

T21N, R101W. This portion of the proposed powerline would be located outside of the BCC

WDEQ/LQD m ine perm it boundary or existing federal lease area and would require a ROW

from the BLM (refer to Figure 2.5). Assum ing a 50 ft-wide ROW , this segm ent of new

powerline would require a ROW grant for approximately 6 acres from the BLM. The remaining

26,600 ft of the new distribution powerline between the new segm ent and Ram p 14 would be

located within the existing federal coal lease and m ine perm it area, and no additional ROW

grants from the BLM would be required. BCC would obtain any necessary easem ents from the

appropriate nonfederal landowners for all powerline segm ents not located on BLM-administered

land.

The proposed electrical service equipm ent would be sim ilar in design to the existing 34.5-kV

system located at the Jim Bridger Mine. The proposed distribution powerline and hardware

would be designed, constructed, operated, and m aintained in conform ance with the National

Electrical Safety Code and other applicable codes and standards, Mitigating Bird Collisions with

Power Lines: The State of the Art in 1994 (APLIC 1994), and Suggested Practices for Raptor

Protection on Power Lines: The State of the Art in 1996 (Avian Power Line Interaction

Committee [APLIC] 1996).

Construction of the proposed powerline and m odification of the existing powerline would be

conducted utilizing standard electrical construction techniques and equipm ent, would only

involve use of wheeled vehicles driving along the ROW , and would not involve any topsoil

salvaging operations. The only area to be physically disturbed by the proposed powerline would

be located where individual power pole structures and anchors would be installed. The new

powerline would result in approxim ately 2 acres of total new disturbance. Modifications to the
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease 27

Jim Bridger substation would occur within th e existing fenced substation area and would not

result in any new or additional disturbance.

In addition, a temporary construction area, located near the Jim Bridger Mine office and shop

complex, would be required for a single (2-acre) m aterial staging area. The tem porary material

staging area would be located on a previously disturbed area and would not result in any new

disturbance.

Mine Access Roads. Access to the surface support facility would be prim arily from existing

public and private roads. From Point of Rocks, construction workers and m iners would travel

north approxim ately 8 m i on W yoming State Highway 377 and then transition on to County

Road 15 for approximately 1 mi. At this point, BCC would construct a new 0.4-mi long segment

of road that would tie into BCC's existing m ine road system (refer to Figure 2.5). The new

access road segm ent would reduce traffic congestion and im prove safety around BCC's office

and shop com plex. BCC would obtain a special use perm it from the Sweetwater County Road

and Bridge Departm ent, and the road would m eet all appropriate road design standards.

Assuming the road disturbance would be approxim ately 50 ft wide, the new access road would

result in approximately 3 acres of new disturbance.

Construction workers and m iners would then enter the BCC m ine property through a access

control point and travel north approxim ately 4.2 m i on the existing m ine road to the proposed

surface support facilities located at Ram p 14 (refer to Figure 2.3). In order to im prove public

safety, the general public would not be allowed to enter the operational portion of the Jim

Bridger Mine.

2.1.5.2 Mine Equipment

Table 2.3 lists the typical types of equipm ent that would be used under the Proposed Action

during construction, exploration, m ine operations, and reclam ation. The specific num ber and
28 Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

Figure 2.5 Proposed Mine Access Roads.
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease 29

Table 2.3 Typical Major Equipment.

Continuous Mining Equipment Longwall Mining System General Mining Equipment

continuous miners face conveyor diesel tow vehicles

shuttle cars shearer compressors

roof bolters shield supports transformers

feeder breakers stage loader/crusher 60-inch wide conveyors

rock dusters lump breaker 60-inch wide drives

power centers transformer 72-inch wide conveyors

scoops scoop forklift 72-inch wide drives

belt takeup petito mule welders

shield haulers mantrips

shield carrier motor grader

shearer carrier tracked dozer

mobile tailpiece water trailer

stage crusher gravel trailer

lighting/communications material trailer

rock duster battery section scoop

electrics/power center

belt takeup

load-haul-dump (LHD)

equipment

forklift

bobcat-type front end loader

communications equipment

power distribution equipment

coal analyzer

rock dusters

water pumps

ventilation fan and motor
30 Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

equipment manufacturers and models would be determined as the project schedule is developed.

Construction equipment (e.g., motor graders, cranes, backhoes, flatbed trucks, forklifts, pickups,

etc.) and construction personnel would only be on-site during construction of the specific

facilities or equipment (e.g., the longwall mining system).

2.1.5.3 Nature of Coal and Coal Reserves

Existing data on coal resources within the TMRT have been developed from numerous surface

exploration drill holes. The data indicate a good-quality coal resource with approxim ately

121.5 million tons of in-place underground-m inable coal. Up to seven coal seam s are present

within the proposed TMRT area; however, only the D-41 coal seam of the Fort Union Formation

is econom ically recoverable using underground m ining m ethods. The D-41 coal seam has a

thickness that would allow a m ining height ra nging from 7 to 11 ft and a heat content of

approximately 9,000 to 9,500 British Therm al Units (BTUs) per pound. W ithin the TMRT, the

minable coal is approxim ately 200 to 1,000 ft below ground surface. Sulfur content is

approximately 0.6% (1.2 pounds sulfur dioxide [SO2] per million BTU) and, with blending at the

Jim Bridger Power Plant, it would be com patible with SO2 requirements specified in the federal

Clean Air Act, as amended (42 U.S.C. §7401 et seq.) (Wyoming State Geological Survey 1998).

Should the lease be issued, additional exploration drilling may be completed within the TMRT to

further delineate the volum e and quality of coal to be m ined. Exploration drilling would be

conducted in accordance with BLM standard environm ental stipulations. If exploration drilling

is required prior to the approval of the W DEQ/LQD mine permit amendment, BCC would apply

for a coal exploration permit and would conduct drilling in accordance with applicable BLM and

WDEQ/LQD rules and regulations. All drill holes would be abandoned and reclaim ed in

accordance with applicable BLM and W DEQ/LQD rules and regulations. Based on the existing

exploration drill hole data, BCC proposes to start underground m ining at the highwall area of

Ramp 14 within the existing BCC surface mining operation.
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease 31

2.1.5.4 Mining Methods

During the first 2 years of underground m ine development, most of the effort would be devoted

to the establishment of the main mine entry and gateroads (a gateroad is a roadway that provides

access to the working panel). The main entry will be started at the highwall located at Ram p 14.

The m ain entry and gateroads would be cut into the highwall utilizing continuous m ining

machines equipped with rotating drum s with bits that cut coal directly from the exposed coal

face (refer to Figure 2.6) and then load it onto a conveyor or into shuttle cars that haul it to a

electric conveyor. The continuous mining equipment could then cut around individual blocks of

coal, referred to as longwall panels (refer to Figure 2.7). In addition to the establishm ent of

longwall

Figure 2.6 Typical Continuous Mining Equipment.
Figure 2.7 Typical Longwall Panel with Main Entry and Submain Entry.
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease 33

panels, the continuous m ining equipment is utilized to establish gateroads with pillars for roof

support and entryways to the panels for equipment access and air ventilation. Each panel would

be approximately 750 to 850 ft wide and ra nge from 10,000 to 15,000 ft long. Once the initial

panels have been developed, a longwall mining system would be installed.

While the continuous m ining equipment continues to develop gateroads, entries, and longwall

panels, the longwall m ining system would m ine the exposed coal face of each panel. The

longwall mining system would be equipped with a shearer that has two rotating drums for cutting

the coal, a self-advancing hydraulic roof support system , and a conveyor to transport the coal

(refer to Figures 2.8 and 2.9). The rotating drum would move down and up along the coal face,

cutting approximately 24-36 inches of coal with each pass. BCC expects to rem ove a minimum

height of 7 ft to a m aximum of 11 ft of coal from the D-41 coal seam . The hydraulic roof

support system would automatically move towards the receding coal face, and the roof would be

allowed to cave into the mined-out areas (refer to Figure 2.10).

Cut coal would fall onto an armored face conveyor to be transported to a headgate belt conveyor

and out to the surface via the m ain entry, where it would be autom atically transferred onto

another electric covered conveyor system that would transport the coal to the power plant

stockpile (refer to Figure 2.9). At the end of each pass, the drum would continue in the opposite

direction for another pass.

The underground mine would be ventilated with a blowing fan system located at the mine portal,

and BCC does not anticipate the need for any vertical ventilation shafts to the surface of the

TMRT area.

Estimated production for the underground m ine may range from 4.5 to 5.5 m illion tons per year

at full production for the next 15 to 20 years, depending upon geologic and econom ic conditions

from the underground operation. Total production from surface and underground m ining

operations at BCC is expected to rem ain at approxim ately 6.2 m illion tons per year but would

depend on coal supply requirements of the Jim Bridger Power Plant.
34 Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

Figure 2.8 Typical Longwall Mining System.
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease 35

Figure 2.9 Close-up of Major Components of Longwall Mining System.

Figure 2.10 Typical Trough Subsidence Due to Longwall Mining.
36 Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

2.1.5.5 Mine-Water Discharge and Treatment

Excess mine water not needed for dust suppression and not used at the surface support facilities

would be pum ped into an existing W DEQ-approved holding pond where the water would be

monitored and discharged into the Deadm an W ash drainage channel if it m eets approved

National Pollutant Discharge Elim ination System (NPDES) discharge standards. This activity

would be conducted as part of ongoing mine dewatering operations conducted at the Jim Bridger

Mine and in accordance with BCC's existing NPDES discharge permit issued by WDEQ/WQD.

2.1.5.6 Water Requirements

Depending on coal production, approxim ately 100,000 to 500,000 gallons of water per day

would be utilized for dust suppression and e quipment washdown and at the surface support

facilities. W ater would be provided either from underground m ine dewatering operations or

from existing water wells located within the Jim Bridger Mine. All water sources would be

permitted by the WSEO.

2.1.5.7 Control of Toxic, Hazardous, and Solid Waste Materials

Acid-Forming/Toxic Materials. Acid-forming or toxic materials are not expected to be created

or encountered during mining operations.

Hazardous Materials and Waste. BCC has reviewed the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's

(EPA's) Consolidated List of Chem icals subject to Reporting Under Title III of the Superfund

Amendments and Reauthorization Act of 1976 (SARA) (as am ended) and EPA' s List of

Extremely Hazardous Substances as defined in Title 40 C.F.R. Part 355 for hazardous substances

proposed for use in this project. BCC m aintains a f ile containing Material Safety Data Sheets

(MSDS) for all chemicals, compounds, and/or substances that are or would be used during m ine

development, mining, and reclamation. Hazardous m aterials anticipated to be used or produced

during the implementation of the Proposed Action fall into the following categories:
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease 37

• fuels - gasoline (potentially containing benzene, toluene, xylene, methyl tert-butyl

ether, and tetraethyl lead) and diesel fuel;

• combustion em issions - nitrogen dioxide (NO 2), carbon m onoxide (CO), and

nonmethane hydrocarbons (NMHCs);

• coolants/antifreezes;

• lubricants - grease (potentially containing com plex hydrocarbons and lithium

compounds) and motor oil;

• paints;

• solvents;

• powerline emissions - ozone and NO2; and

• wood preservation for powerline poles.

BCC and its contractors would com ply with all applicable federal laws and regulations. BCC

and its contractors would handle and store all hazardous substances in an appropriate m anner to

prevent contamination of soil and water resources. Any release of hazardous substances (leaks,

spills, etc.) in excess of reportable quantities, established in Title 40 C.F.R. Part 117, would be

reported as required by the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and

Liability Act of 1980 (CERCLA), as am ended. If a releas e of a reportable quantity of any

hazardous substances occurs, a report would be furnished to W DEQ and all other appropriate

federal and state agencies. Prior to construction of any facilities associated with the Proposed

Action, inventories of hazardous chem ical categories pursuant to Section 312 of the SARA, as

amended, would be updated.

Unanticipated release events (such as spills or leaks) are always possible; however, BCC is

committed to all planning and em ergency procedures regarding spill prevention, reporting, and

cleanup standards required by local, state, and federal laws and regulations should an incident

occur.

Fuel Storage. During the construction phase of the Proposed Action, fuel storage would be

provided from the existing Jim Bridger Mine facilities. Upon com pletion of construction
38 Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

activities, a perm anent fuel storage facility w ould be provided at the Surface Support Facilities

(refer to Figure 2.2). In addition, m obile fuel tr ucks would be used to service and fuel m ine

equipment. All fuel storage facilities and e quipment would be constructed and operated in

accordance with all applicable state and federal regulations. Prior to the im plementation of the

Proposed Action, BCC would update the m ine's existing Spill Prevention, Control, and

Countermeasure Plan (SPCCP), as necessary, in accordance with Title 40 C.F.R. Part 112.

Disposal of Nonhazardous Materials (Solid and Nonsolid). Portable toilets would be provided

for workers on-site and at the proposed change house located at Ram p 14, and the waste would

be properly disposed of through the septic system or at an approved waste disposal facility on an

as-needed basis. Solid waste such as garbage and other discarded solid m aterials would be

collected at a designated collection site and disposed of at an approved solid waste m anagement

facility. Solid waste would not be im ported or di sposed of within the TMRT area. Spills of

petroleum products m ay occur during m ining due to periodic equipm ent m aintenance and/or

accidents. Petroleum-contaminated soils would be disposed of at an approved facility capable of

accepting such waste. All nonhazardous m aterial would be disposed of in accordance with

appropriate local, state, and federal regulations.

2.1.5.8 Subsidence and Associated Reclamation

As each coal panel is m ined out, the longwall system , including the roof support equipm ent,

would advance toward the receding coal face, and the roof located above the m ined-out coal

panel area would be allowed to cave into th e m ined-out area (refer to Figure 2.10). The

collapsed material provides considerable support for the overlying strata, but the strata would

eventually settle, leading to subsidence on th e surface. Although inevitable, trough subsidence

caused by longwall m ining is generally uniform and m ore predictable than subsidence due to

room-and-pillar mining (U.S. Department of Energy 1995).

As part of the WDEQ/LQD permit to mine, BCC would be responsible for the developm ent of a

mine subsidence plan that would include detailed calculations concerning the am ount of
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease 39

anticipated subsidence, m easures to be taken to prevent or m inimize the im pacts of subsidence,

measures to be taken to prevent, lessen, or m itigate material damage or loss of value of physical

property in the area, and a subsidence monitoring and mitigation plan.

In accordance with W DEQ/LQD rules and regulations, the surface areas located above

underground-mined areas would be m onitored annually and for a m inimum of 5 years after the

completion of underground m ining operations. This would allow BCC and W DEQ/LQD to

assess subsidence and the adequacy or need for reclam ation effort. BCC would be responsible

for the repair of areas of surface subsidence for a period of 5 years following com pletion of

mining operations as directed by W DEQ/LQD (W DEQ/LQD Rules and Regulations, 2002,

Chapter 7, Section 2. [a][iv]). Reclam ation of areas of subsidence that require corrective action

would be initiated after the subsidence has occurre d and it has been determ ined that corrective

actions are required. Areas of subsidence and erosional features would be m onitored and

appropriate corrective actions (i.e., reclam ation and revegetation efforts) instituted if conditions

warrant. Additional erosion control features would also be em ployed as needed. All m itigation

and corrective actions would be conducted in accordance with the approved W DEQ/LQD mine

permit and as directed by WDEQ/LQD.

2.1.5.9 Reclamation of Mine Facilities

The postm ining land use would continue to be livestock grazing and wildlife habitat.

Reclamation of mine facilities (i.e., surface support facility, powerlines, overland conveyor, etc.)

would begin when underground m ining operations have been com pleted. All support facilities

associated with the Proposed Action would be dismantled and removed and the land reclaimed in

accordance with the approved mine and reclamation permit issued by WDEQ/LQD.

Permanent reclamation procedures for areas located within the existing Jim Bridger Mine would

typically include disassem bly and relocation of underground m ining equipm ent, rem oval and

demolition of mine facilities (buildings, conveyors, powerlines, etc.), backfilling and grading of

overburden, topsoil replacem ent, and revegetation operations (e.g., seeding and m ulching
40 Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

operations). WDEQ/LQD would approve permanent reclamation seed mixtures and seeding and

mulching rates. W DEQ/LQD is responsible for reviewing and approving all m ine and

reclamation plans prior to the initiation of actual m ining operations. BCC would utilize only

weed-free reclamation materials (e.g., seed, mulch).

BCC would be required to post a reclam ation perform ance bond for all areas physically

disturbed by m ining operations (including areas of repaired subsidence) with the State of

Wyoming to ensure that it com plies with all the reclam ation requirements of the W DEQ/LQD

permit and that reclamation requirements are met. Once mining and reclamation operations have

been com pleted, BCC would follow reclam ation bond release procedures specified by

WDEQ/LQD. Reclamation bond release procedures for an underground coal m ine are identical

to surface coal m ines, including the 10-year bond release period after the com pletion of

permanent reclamation operations, and they require that a stable land form exists on disturbed

areas and that revegetation standards have been m et. W DEQ/LQD would release the full

reclamation performance bond after strict reclam ation standards have been m et and the public

has been provided an opportunity to comment.

2.1.5.10 Avoidance of Public Nuisance and Endangerment

Nearby Dwellings. As specified under Wyoming Statute (W.S.) 35-11-406 (m)(viii), the director

of the W DEQ can deny a perm it to m ine if the a ffected lands lie within 300 ft of any existing

occupied dwelling, hom e, public building, school, church, com munity or institutional building,

park or cemetery, unless the landowner' s consent is obtained. There are no occupied dwellings,

homes, public buildings, schools, churches or institutional buildings, parks, cem eteries, or

community centers within 300 ft of the proposed TMRT area. The nearest occupied dwellings,

homes, public buildings, schools, churches or institutional buildings, parks, cem eteries, or

community centers are located approxim ately 8 mi west of the TMRT in the com munity of

Superior.
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease 41

Normal Operating Hours. Mine operations within the TMRT would be identical to the existing

Jim Bridger Mine: 24 hours per day, 7 days per week, 52 weeks per year except for designated

holidays. Holidays would generally be excluded from the operations schedule. Additionally, the

mine would be scheduled for 2 weeks per year idle tim e for annual vacations. Maintenance

activities would still continue during mine idle times.

Entrance Sign. An entrance identification sign would be posted and m aintained at all m ajor

entrances into the existing Jim Bridger Mine and the TMRT area. The sign would contain the

name, address, and telephone number of the operator, the name of the local authorized agent, and

the WDEQ/LQD permit number of the operation.

Blasting Plan. Limited blasting would be required with underground mining operations. Blasting

operations would also continue as needed for the existing surface m ining operations in

accordance with applicable WDEQ/LQD and federal Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco, Firearm s, and

Explosives regulations. Blasting operations conducted in association with the Proposed Action

would be m uch smaller in size than those currently associated with the existing surface m ining

operation.

Fire Control. BCC m aintains a fire engine, water trucks, and dozers that m ay be utilized in the

event of an equipment fire or wildfire. BCC also has established procedures to respond to and to

combat fires. All em ployees are trained in the use of hand-held fire extinguishers, and

appropriate personnel are trained in the specific use of other firefighting equipment.

Weed Control. Designated or prohibited noxious weeds on lands within the TMRT area would

be controlled. In general, the following procedures would be instituted.

• Land disturbance would be kept to a minimum during the mining process.

• BCC will utilize only certified weed-free m ulch and seed during reclam ation

operations.

• Chemical herbicides m ay be used to control noxious or prohibited weeds. The

local weed and pest agency would be contacted, and the problem would be
42 Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

addressed in com pliance with appropriate regulations. If required, a Pesticide

Use Plan would be prepared and approved by W DEQ/LQD and BLM prior to

application of pesticides.

Prevention of Endangerm ent. Mining operations would be conducted in a m anner intended to

prevent or minimize endangerment to the public safety and hum an and animal life. The TMRT

area would continue to be utilized for livesto ck grazing; therefore, public access to the TMRT

and the m ine highwall portion of the lease area ca nnot be com pletely restricted or elim inated.

However, in accordance with the Wyoming Environmental Quality Act and OSM regulations,

mine entrance signs would be posted on all m ajor roads leading on to the TMRT area, and m ine

employees would be instructed to watch for unauthorized personnel and to notify m ine

management if unauthorized personnel are observed within the TMRT.

Since the TMRT would be incorporated into an existing W DEQ/LQD permit area, speed lim its

would be established for the TMRT area to prom ote safe conditions for the public and to

decrease potential encounters with grazing animals and wildlife. Currently, speed within the Jim

Bridger Mine is lim ited to 45 m i per hour due to the conditions in the area. All construction

workers, contract haulers, and miners would be advised of the speed limit.

2.1.5.11 Employment

Under the Proposed Action, approxim ately 10-75 tem porary construction workers would be

required to construct the powerline, the covered conveyor, and support m ine facilities and to

assemble mining equipment. Construction operations may start in mid-2005 and would continue

through the end of 2006; however, precise dates would depend upon the overall project schedule,

weather conditions, and the approval of all required regulatory permits and authorizations.

Current surface-mining operations at the Jim Bridger Mine utilize approximately 350 employees.

Under the Proposed Action, there would be a transition of som e employees between jobs while

operations are conducted at both the surface and underground m ining operations. After the
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease 43

initial startup of underground m ining operations (including developm ent of m ain entries,

gateroads, and initial longwall production), the projected number of underground employees may

range from 180 to 250. However, the total number of employees would depend upon production

levels from both the surface and underground mining operations. The total number of employees

may range between 250 and 400 employees. Therefore, under the Proposed Action it is possible

that there could be a net increase of approximately 50 employees at the BCC.

2.1.5.12 Cultural Resource Protection

Under the Proposed Action, BCC (if the successful bidder) would enter into a cultural resource

programmatic agreem ent with BLM, OSM, W DEQ/LQD, and W yoming State Historic

Preservation Office. This agreem ent would specify survey, testing, protection, and m itigation

measures that would be im plemented by BCC to address and protect National Register of

Historic Places (NRHP)-eligible historic and prehistoric sites within the TMRT area. The

programmatic agreem ent would dem onstrate com pliance with all applicable cultural resource

laws and regulations.

In addition, BLM Class III surveys would be conducted on those areas that are located outside of

the TMRT, have not been previously surveyed, and would be physically disturbed by the

construction activities. All historic and prehistoric resources that are potentially eligible for the

NHRP that could be adversely affected by the Proposed Action would be protected from

disturbance or would be appropriately m itigated if the site could not be avoided. W here

necessary and appropriate, site-specific m itigation m easures would be developed and

implemented in accordance with the current cultural resource protection plan contained in BCC's

approved WDEQ/LQD permit. The site-specific m itigation measures would also be developed

and implemented with the concurrence of the BLM, OSM, WDEQ/LDQ, and the Wyoming State

Historic Preservation Office.

BCC would also com mit to the following: if any cultural resources are discovered during

construction or reclamation operation, work in the area of the discovery would be halted, and the
44 Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

appropriate regulatory agency would be notified and appropriate treatm ent plans would be

implemented. BCC em ployees would be instructed that they would be working on both private

and public land and not to search for, scavenge, or rem ove any cultural resources found while

working on the project.

2.1.5.13 General Environmental Protection

Existing federal and state rules and regulations that require extensive m onitoring and mitigation

for all underground coal m ines in W yoming would be applied to this project to m itigate the

environmental consequences associated with coal m ine development and operations. Under the

Proposed Action, BCC would be required to conduct detailed environm ental studies in

accordance with W DEQ/LQD rules and regulations prior to perm it issuance and would be

required to conduct environmental monitoring and mitigation if the permit would to be approved.

In addition, the public would have several opportunities to com ment on the permit application if

the Proposed Action would be approved. Therefore, for the purpose of th is EA, it is assum ed

that BCC would adhere to applicable sections of Chapters 4 and 7 of W DEQ/LQD's Coal Rules

and Regulations (W DEQ/LQD 2002) and BLM' s mitigation guidelines described in the Green

River RMP for surface-disturbing activities (BLM 1997a). In addition, this analysis assum es

standard and special coal lease stipulations would apply (refer to Apppendix A).

In addition to specifying perm it requirem ents, W DEQ/LQD rules and regulations also outline

general and specific environm ental protection perform ance standards for underground coal

mining operations. These applicable rules and regulations would be adhered to on

BLM-administered lands, private lands, and state-owned lands.

2.2 NO ACTION ALTERNATIVE

Under the No Action Alternative, the TMRT coal lease application would be rejected and the

area contained in the application would not be offered for com petitive coal sale at this tim e.

However, rejection of the application would not affect the already leased and perm itted surface
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease 45

mining activity at the Jim Bridger Mine. For the purpose of this analysis, the No Action

Alternative assum es that the TMRT would not be m ined in the im mediate future. This

assumption is highly speculative since private minerals within the project area (refer to

Figure 2.1) may be developed without the developm ent of the federal m inerals. However, this

approach is not preferred by the applicant, has not been discussed with the BLM, and would not

be utilized as the No Action Alternative. The purpose of the No Action Alternative is to allow a

comparison of the econom ic and environm ental consequences of m ining these lands versus not

mining them. Not leasing this land in a configur ation associated with the existing Jim Bridger

surface coal m ine at this tim e may result in a bypass of federal coal, which m ay not be in the

general public's best financial interest. Howeve r, selection of the No Action Alternative would

not preclude the possibility of subsequent leas ing for these lands as a stand-alone underground

mine as described in Section 2.3.1.

Under the No Action Alternative, the Proposed Action would not be selected and BLM would

not offer the federal coal within the TMRT lease area for sale. As a result, BCC' s ability to

sustain historic coal production levels would be lim ited to the rem aining coal reserves located

within the existing lease area that would be econom ically recoverable using existing surface

mining operations and highwall mining methods. Undoubtedly, there would be a decrease in the

amount of coal m ined at the Jim Bridger Coal Mine with a corresponding reduction in the

number of m iners em ployed at BCC. BCC would continue to produce coal at som e reduced

level as long as the costs were com petitive with m arket alternatives for the Jim Bridger Power

Plant. BCC has not com pleted a detailed analysis of the No Action Alternative m ining scenario

and does not have specific information on how long surface mining operations could continue or

how many workers would be required for on-going m ining and reclamation operations under the

No Action Alternative.

In addition, representatives for the adjacent Jim Bridger Power Plant would need to secure

alternative coal supplies from non-BCC sources for the power plant. These coal supplies would

likely be transported by rail to the plant on the existing railroad spur line from Union Pacific

Railroad Company's main line located near Point of Rocks, Wyoming.
46 Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

2.3 ALTERNATIVES CONSIDERED BUT ELIMINATED FROM DETAILED STUDY

Several alternatives were identified and reviewed during the preparation of this EA. At the

conclusion of the review, the EA team screened out the following alternatives as not feasible and

not warranting further analysis in this EA.

2.3.1 Hold a Competitive Sale of Federal Coal Lands that Would Maximize the Potential

for a New Stand-alone Mine

This alternative assumes that the BLM would award the TMRT lease to a successful bidder but

not the current applicant. Since there are no adjacent m ines that could incorporate the coal

reserves into an existing lease, the successful bidder (assum ing it would not be the current

applicant) would be required to establish a new stand-alone mine. Due to the depth of the coal

(200-1,000 ft below the surface) within the TMRT, it is assumed that the tract would be too deep

for surface mining and would, therefore, have to be mined utilizing underground technologies.

A new stand-alone underground m ine would require considerable initial capital expenses,

including the construction of new external transportation facilities (e.g., rail loop or paved access

road), surface facilities (e.g., coal-processing facilities, coal-loadout facilities), internal

transportation facilities (e.g., conveyors or haulroads), utilities and com munication facilities

(e.g., powerline, transformers, water wells, telephone lines), and support buildings (e.g., offices,

shop, change house, and warehouse). In addition to the above item s, vertical shafts or inclined

ramps would be necessary to provide access to the targeted coal seam s because a stand-alone

operation would not be able to access the highwall portal located within the Jim Bridger Mine.

In addition, the increased recovery of the rem aining coal resource on the existing Bridger coal

lease (accessible only from the TMRT area) would not be accom plished because these coal

reserves have already been leased to BCC and could only be econom ically recovered by

underground mining methods. However, if the federal coal reserves within the TMRT area were

to be leased to another bidder (not the current applicant), the underground reserves located

within the existing Jim Bridger lease area and near the TMRT area would likely be bypassed.
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease 47

This would result in a total potential loss of reserves of more than 5 million tons of federal, state,

and private coal reserves, with the subsequent loss of revenue to the federal and state

governments.

A new stand-alone mine would also require extensive environmental baseline data collection and

permitting efforts that would take 2 to 4 y ears to com plete. The new underground coal m ine

would also have to com pete for custom ers with established m ining operations in the im mediate

area (e.g., Bridger Mine, Leucite Hills Mine, and Black Butte Mine) and the region (e.g.,

Wyoming Powder River Basin). No other com panies have expressed an interest to the BLM in

coal exploration or development activity in the TMRT. As a result of these constraints, it would

be difficult to anticipate exactly how another co mpany would physically m ine and transport the

coal to market.

In order to help offset the considerable initial capital expenses of a new m ine and to attract the

serious attention of another bidder, the BLM would likely have to consider enlarging the TMRT.

The enlarged tract would be offered for com petitive sale, subject to standard and special lease

stipulations. A successful bidder for the enlarged tract would still face the sam e initial facility

development costs and m arket considerations discussed above. Furtherm ore, enlarging the tract

enough to make it attractive for a new m ine start may lower the fair market value of the coal per

ton and would likely result in a lower bonus bid per ton paid to the federal governm ent. For

these reasons, it is unlikely that the TMRT or an enlarged TMRT would attract additional

bidders interested in starting a new m ine. Therefore, this alternative was elim inated from

consideration and is not analyzed in detail in this EA.

In the event that the successful bidder for the fede ral coal reserves within the TMRT area is not

the current applicant, the successful bidder would be required to subm it detailed m ine

development inform ation to the BLM, including m ine and transportation plans and m ine and

support facility requirem ents. The BLM would then utilize this inform ation to undertake

additional environmental analysis in compliance with NEPA because any new mine facilities not

associated with the Proposed Action have not been addressed in the current EA.
48 Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

2.3.2 Smaller Sale Area

Under this alternative, the BLM would lease only approxim ately one-half of the identified

federal coal reserves within the TMRT. Sp ecifically, the E1⁄2 of Section 34, T22N, R101W , and

all of Section 6, T21N, R100W , would be the only federally owned coal lands included in this

alternative. This alternative would also include Sections 35 (privately owned coal lands) and

36 (state-owned coal lands), T22N, R101W, and Section 31 (privately owned coal lands), T22N,

R100W. Leasing of only one-half of the proposed tract m ay have the effect of m aking the

project, as a whole, uneconom ic because of the extensive capital investm ents necessary to start

an underground mine of the same capacity and with only one-half the coal reserves anticipated in

the Proposed Action. In addition, the applicant m ay feel that the risk of leasing one-half of the

tract would be too high, due to a lack of fl exibility in the mine plan when mine plan

modifications become necessary. Mine plans are evolving docum ents, and there is no way of

knowing precisely the nature of the deposit until the initiation of actual mining operations.

Therefore, this alternative is determ ined not econom ically feasible, was elim inated from

consideration, and is not analyzed in detail in this EA.

2.3.3 Larger Sale Area (Originally-Applied-for LBA Tract)

Under this alternative, the BLM would lease approxim ately three times as much of federal coal

as identified in the current TMRT LBA, area and the size would be sim ilar to the originallyapplied-for LBA Tract. The larger TMRT LBA area was identified during the initial public

scoping of this EA that was released to the public in Novem ber 2001. However, results of

additional exploration drilling conducted with in a larger TMRT LBA area by the current

applicant during 2001 to 2003 indicated that the quantity and quality of coal within the larger

TMRT LBA area was unacceptable and would not justify proceeding with the leasing process for

the larger LBA area at this tim e. It is possible that the successful bidder of the lease sale m ay

apply for a subsequent lease or lease modification if the proposed LBA were leased and mined.
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease 49

Therefore, this alternative is determ ined not econom ically feasible, was elim inated from

consideration, and is not analyzed in detail in this EA. The elim ination of this alternative from

the detailed analysis in this EA would not result in the perm anent bypass of any federal coal

reserves.

2.3.4 Postpone Competitive Lease Sales

Under this alternative, the sale of the federal coal reserves within the TMRT would be postponed

more than 5 years on the assum ption that coal prices would rise in the future, thus increasing the

fair market value of the tract and resulting in a higher bonus bid when the coal is sold.

There are two sources of revenue to federal and state governm ents from the leasing and m ining

of federal coal: a bonus bid paid at the tim e the coal is leased and a royalty paym ent (based on

8% of the gross value of the coal) is collected when the coal is sold. The royalty paym ent is the

larger of the two incom e sources, and since it is collected when the coal is sold, a m echanism is

already in place for government revenues to increase if prices rise.

Although postponing the lease sale until prices rise m ay conceivably result in a higher bonus bid

paid for the tract, it would not necessarily result in higher royalty paym ents. It typically takes

several years to lease and perm it a coal tract, a nd coal prices would not necessarily rem ain high

until the coal is actually mined if a sale is postponed until the prices increase.

There is also the econom ic concept of net pres ent value of m oney; that m eans that future

economic values m ust be financially discounted due to the effect of inflation and that m oney

earned today is more valuable than undetermined revenues earned in the future because it can be

invested at a known rate. Therefore, unless coal prices are expected to increase and stay at these

higher levels, it is in the governm ent's best financial interest to lease the coal tract today instead

of waiting an unspecified period of time in hopes that the price of coal will increase in the future.
50 Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

Current surface m ining operations at BCC are nearing their econom ic limits and will likely be

completed within approxim ately 5 years. At that tim e, permanent reclamation operations will

proceed within the entire mine area, including the area in and around Ramp 14 and highwall area

where the potential surface support facilities would be located. If there are no definitive plans or

prospects to leave the Ram p 14 area and associated highwall area open, BCC would be required

by W DEQ/LQD to perm anently reclaim this area. If these areas are perm anently reclaim ed

before underground m ining operations are conducted in the TMRT LBA area, the cost of

reinitiating underground m ining operations would likely be m uch higher than those anticipated

under the Proposed Action. This situation would then be sim ilar to the stand-alone m ine

alternative discussed above and m ay actually result in a m ajor impact on the econom ic viability

of the entire project.

Therefore, this alternative was elim inated from consideration and not analyzed in detail in this

EA because the potential econom ic benefits are not com pletely predictable and because the

impacts of mining coal at a later time would likely be similar to stand-alone alternative discussed

above.

2.3.5 Hold a Competitive Sale of Federal Coal Lands as a Continuation of Existing Surface

Coal Mining Operations

Under this alternative, the current lease applicant would mine the federal coal reserves within the

TMRT area as a continuation of existing surf ace coal-mining operations. Underground m ining

operations would not be im plemented as described in the Proposed Action. Strip ratios (i.e., the

thickness of overburden compared to the thickness of coal) in the TMRT are much higher than in

the existing coal lease and perm it area. W hile surface m ining operations m ay be utilized to

extract the coal, it would be m uch more difficult and costly to surface m ine the high-strip-ratio

coal found in the TMRT. In addition, surf ace m ining of the TMRT would also result in

increased disturbance, environmental impacts, and costs compared to the Proposed Action. This

alternative would not be econom ically feasible given the alternative sources of coal available in

the im mediate area and region and the availability of other m ining technologies (i.e.,
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease 51

underground longwall m ining). Therefore, this alternative was found to be unreasonable and

was eliminated from consideration and is not analyzed in detail in this EA.
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease 53

3.0 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT

3.1 LOCATION, SETTING, AND HISTORICAL USE

The proposed project area is located in north-central Sweetwater County north of Interstate 80,

approximately 10 m i north of Point of Rocks, approxim ately 25 m i east of Rock Springs, and

approximately 70 m i west of Rawlins, W yoming (refer to Figure 1.1). Topography within the

proposed project area ranges from flat to rolling, dissected by sm all ephem eral drainage

channels. Elevations within the proposed project area range from a low of approxim ately 6,800

ft above mean sea level along the southwestern boundary of the property to approxim ately 7,080

ft above mean sea level along the Continental Divide near the center of the property.

The TMRT area lies on the eastern flank of the Rock Springs uplift within the Great Divide

Basin physiographic province (Knight 1994). The proposed project area also straddles the

Continental Divide, with the southern portion of the TMRT area draining into the Green River

drainage basin and the northern portion of the TMRT draining into the closed Great Divide

Basin drainage system (Blackstone 1988).

Climate in the project area is typical of high deserts of the interm ountain west (Knight 1994).

Record high and low tem peratures at the Bitter Creek weather station (approxim ately 17 m i

south of the TMRT area) are 103oF and -46oF, re spectively, with an average of approxim ately 5

days per year above 90oF. Sum mer temperatures range widely, typically with warm sunny days

and cool nights. During winter nights, tem peratures fall to 0oF or below an average of about

30 days per year. The area has approxim ately 200 days per year with m inimum temperatures at

or below 32oF, and there are an average of approxim ately 100 frost-free days a year in the northcentral Sweetwater County. The proposed project area receives approxim ately 6 to 8 inches of

precipitation per year, and the prevailing winds are from the southwest with an average annual

wind speed of approximately 12 mi per hour (Martner 1986).
54 Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

The proposed project area has historically been utilized for livestock grazing, wildlife habitat,

and recreational hunting. This area provides lim ited winter grazing for cattle, sheep, and horses.

However, stocking rates are low prim arily due to sparse vegetation (Soil Conservation Service

[SCS] 1988).

3.2 CRITICAL ELEMENTS

Critical elements of the hum an environment as defined by the BLM (1988), their status in the

proposed project area, and their potential to be affected by the Proposed Action or No Action

alternative is presented in Table 3.1. BLM resource specialists have determ ined that six of the

13 critical elements of the human environment are not present in the area, are not affected by the

Proposed Action or alternatives of this EA, and are not discussed further. Seven critical

elements (air quality; cultural resources; Native Am erican religious concerns; TEC&P species;

wastes [hazardous and solid]; water quality; and wetlands/riparian areas) are present in the

proposed project area, may be affected by the Proposed Action or alternatives, and are discussed

in detail in this EA.

Based on com ments received from the public during a BLM-sponsored open house for the

Proposed Action on January 17, 2002, and additional existing inform ation concerning the

proposed project area, BLM resource specialists have determ ined that this EA will also analyze

potential im pacts of the Proposed Action and alternatives on geology and geologic hazards,

minerals (solid and fluid), health and safety (transportation), land resources and use, noise,

rangeland and livestock grazing, recreation, socioeconom ics, soil resources, special status flora

and fauna, vegetation, wild horses, and wildlife. Other resources (e.g., forested area/products,

paleontology, visual resources, water rights, etc.) have been determ ined not to be affected by the

proposed project and are therefore not analyzed in detail in this EA.

Based on the discussion presented above and in accordance with BLM NEPA regulations and

policies, the following resource area/topics will be addressed in this EA: air quality and noise;
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease 55

Table 3.1 Critical Elements of the Human Environment.1

Element Status

Analyzed in Detail in

This EA

Air quality Potentially affected Yes

Areas of critical environmental concern Not present No

Cultural resources Potentially affected Yes

Environmental justice related issues Not present No

Farmlands (prime or unique) Not present No

Floodplains Not present No

Native American religious concerns Potentially affected Yes

TEC&P species Potentially affected Yes

Wastes (hazardous and solid) Potentially affected Yes

Water quality Potentially affected Yes

Wetlands/riparian areas Potentially affected Yes

Wild and scenic rivers Not present No

Wilderness (wilderness study areas and

wilderness areas)

Not present No

1 Adapted from the BLM NEPA Handbook H-1790-1 (BLM 1988).

cultural resources; geology and geologic hazards; health and safety (transportation); land

resources and use; minerals (solid and fluid); Native American religious concerns; rangeland and

livestock grazing; recreation; socioeconom ics; soil resources; TEC&P and BLM-sensitive

species; vegetation (including invasive species); wastes (hazardous and solid); water resources;

wetlands/riparian areas; wild horses; and wildlife.

The primary purpose of Chapter 3.0 of this EA is to provide a description of the affected area for

those resource areas or topics to be addressed. Descriptions focus on those portions of the

environment that would be affected by the Proposed Action and alternatives.
56 Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

The purpose of an EA is not only to discuss the environm ental consequences of the Proposed

Action and the No Action Alternative on the environm ental resources or topics within the actual

boundary of the proposed project area but also to discuss the cum ulative impacts relative to past,

present, and reasonably foreseeable future action within an identified cum ulative im pact

analysis area (CIAA) (Council on Environm ental Quality 1997). The boundaries of each CIAA

were defined based on the specific resource that was evaluated and the potential for im pacts

beyond the CIAA. Each CIAA is described later in Chapter 3 under the specific resource being

evaluated.

In addition, disturbances due to existing activities and reasonably foreseeable future actions have

been quantified using data input into a com puterized geographic inform ation system. Existing

disturbance has been quantified and is discussed, while disturbance due to reasonably

foreseeable future actions has been quantified and is discussed in Chapter 4. Categories of

existing disturbance include m ajor industrial facilities (e.g., Jim Bridger Power Plant, Jim

Bridger surface coal m ine, Leucite Hills surface coal m ine, Black Butte Mine); m inor industrial

facilities (e.g., communication sites, electric substations, ranches, small quarry sites); roads (e.g.,

interstate highways, state highways, county roads, unpaved roads, two-track roads); railroads

tracks; oil and gas wells and associated pad, road, and pipeline facilities; and cities (e.g.,

Superior, Point of Rocks, Rock Springs, Green River).

Numerous projects previously authorized by the BLM and currently under review by the BLM

were evaluated to determ ine if they would re sult in disturbance within any of the specific

CIAAs. Future disturbance from those projects that would or could reasonably be expected to

occur within the specific CIAAs were included in cum ulative im pact analysis. Reasonably

foreseeable future actions include the Proposed Action, the rem aining disturbance associated

with the Continental Divide/Wamsutter II Natural Gas Project, and the Vermillion Basin Natural

Gas Exploration and Production Project. In addition, disturbances related to projects current

under review by the BLM, including the DFP, th e Pacific Rim Shallow Gas Project, and the

Bitter Creek Shallow Gas Project, were also evaluated in the cumulative impact analysis.
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease 57

3.3 AFFECTED RESOURCES

3.3.1 Air Quality and Noise

3.3.1.1 Air Quality

The WDEQ/AQD has been authorized to enforce national am bient air quality standards set forth

in the federal Clean Air Act, as am ended (42 U.S.C. §7401 et seq.) through Article 2 of the

Wyoming Environmental Quality Act (W .S. 35-11-201 et seq.) and the W yoming State

Implementation Plan, which has been approved by the EPA. The W yoming and National

Ambient Air Quality Standards (WAAQS and NAAQS) set upper limits for specific air pollutant

concentrations at all locations where the public has access, expressed in m icrograms per cubic

meter ( μg/m3

). The W AAQS and NAAQS are shown in Table 3.2. W yoming Air Quality

Standards and Regulations (W AQS&R) define am bient air as "that portion of the atm osphere,

external to buildings, to which the general public has access" (W DEQ/LQD 2000b:8) Lands

within an approved mine permit boundary are not usually accessible to the general public and are

not subject to the state air quality standard s; rather, they are governed by federal MSHA

respirable dust standards and regulations designed to protect worker safety (Title 30 C.F.R. Parts

70, 72, 74, and 75 et seq.).

Ambient air concentration data collected at m onitoring sites in the region provide an indication

of existing air quality in the region. Criteria po llutant m onitoring has been perform ed in the

region for particulate matter less than 10 microns in diameter (PM10) at sites both displaced from

and predom inantly upwind of the project area. Both displaced and local upwind sites are

considered "background" m onitoring sites for this analysis, although local upwind m onitoring

sites may be impacted by local industrial operations under certain meteorological conditions. By

considering local upwind sites as background sites, a conservative range of PM 10 concentrations

are reported to reflect existing air quality in the region. These conservative m onitoring results

indicate that PM10 concentrations in the study area are below applicable W AAQS and NAAQS.
58 Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

Table 3.2 Selected National and Wyoming Air Quality Standards.

Incremental Increase Above

Legal Baseline

Air Pollutant

Averaging

Time Period

Local and Regional

Background Concentration

(μg/m3

) 1

NAAQS

(μg/m3

)

2

WAAQS

(μg/m3

)

3 PSD Class I PSD Class II

Particulate matter

<10 microns in

diameter (PM10)

24-hour 18-35 150 150 8 30

AAM4 8-10 50 50 4 17

Particulate matter

<2.5 microns in

diameter (PM2.5 )

24-hour nd5 65 65 ns6 ns

AAM nd 15 15 ns ns

Ozone 1-hour 144 235 235 ns ns

8-hour 139 157 na ns ns

Nitrogen dioxide (NO2) AAM 4 100 100 2.5 25

Sulfur dioxide (SO2) 3-hour 132 1,3007 1,300 25 512

24-hour 43 365 260 5 91

AAM 9 80 60 2 20

Carbon monoxide (CO) 1-hour 3,481 40,000 40,000 ns ns

8-hour 1,489 10,000 10,000 ns ns

1 Source of data: PM10 - data collected at Bridger Power Plant, Site 901 from Jan. 1999 to Dec. 2000; Black Butte Mine, Site

863, from Jan. 1999 to Dec. 2000 (WDE Q/AQD 2000a); and Seedskadee National Wildlife Refuge, 1989-2001 (personal

communication, April 4, 2002, with Ken Rairigh and Bob Schick, WDEQ/AQD, Chey enne, Wy oming). Ozone - data

collected near Pinedale, Wyoming, from 1997 to 1999 (EPA 2002). NO X - Green River Visibility Study, period of record

1996-1999 (personal communication, April 4, 2002, with Ken Rairigh, WDEQ/AQD, Chey enne, Wy oming). SO 2 - data

collected at LaBarge Study Area, Northwest Pipeline Craven Creek Site (personal communication, April 4, 2002, with Ken

Rairigh, WDEQ/AQD, Cheyenne, Wyoming). CO (BLM 1983). 2 NAAQS = National Ambient Air Quality Standards (adapted from 40 C.F.R. 50.5-50.12). Primary standard unless

otherwise noted. National Prim ary Standards establish the leve l of air quality necessary to protect public health from any

known or anticipated effects of a pollutant, allowing a margin of safety to protect sensitive members of the population. 3 WAAQS = Wyoming Ambient Air Quality Standard (adapted from WDEQ/AQD [2000a]). 4 AAM = annual arithmetic mean. 5 nd = no data. 6 ns = no standard. 7 Secondary standard. National Secondary Standards establish the level of air quality to protect the public welfare by

preventing injury to agricultural crops and livestock deterioration of materials and property and adverse impacts to the

environment.
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease 59

Ambient standards for particulate m atter less than 2.5 m icrons in diam eter (PM2.5) have been

defined in the WAQS&R; however, these standards would not be enforced at the state level until

EPA has com pleted an ongoing review and has determ ined to retain and enforce these

regulations. Regional m onitoring-based background values for other criteria pollutants (carbon

monoxide [CO], nitrogen dioxide [NO2], ozone, and sulfur dioxide [SO2]) have been collected at

monitoring sites in Sweetwater County, W yoming, and in northwest Colorado and are well

below applicable W AAQS and NAAQS. Am bient air quality data for all pollutants are

summarized in Table 3.2.

There are no site-specific air quality m onitors located within the TMRT area; however,

numerous air quality m onitors are located with in the CIAA and region. Based on calculated

emission, the dominant air pollutants emitted in the CIAA area are particulates (i.e., PM 10), SO2,

and NOX The largest contributors to PM 10 emissions in the CIAA area are associated with the

three industrial operations in the area, including the Jim Bridger Mine and Leucite Hills Mine

and the Jim Bridger Power Plant. Local traffic on unpaved roads also contributes to total PM 10

concentrations, as does wind erosion of exposed surfaces. Am bient concentrations of gaseous

criteria pollutants (CO, NO2, and SO2) occur primarily from mobile sources (vehicles) and from

the Jim Bridger Power Plant.

Table 3.2 shows the m aximum increase of PM 10 that is allowed by the federal Clean Air Act

under the Prevention of Significant Deterioration (PSD) regulations and adopted in Chapter 6 of

the WAQS&R. These regulations are designed to prevent significant deterioration of existing air

quality in regions cleaner than the NAAQS. Under these regulations, the am bient levels of

pollutants would be allowed to rise by specified increm ents. Prior to obtaining a perm it to

construct through the W DEQ/AQD, an em issions source m ust dem onstrate that am bient

concentrations from the proposed source plus selected regional sources are less than applicable

Class I and Class II increments.

The CIAA for air quality resources is the sam e area utilized in the Continental Divide/Greater

Wamsutter II CD/GWII (EIS), completed in 1998 (BLM 1999a, 1999b), and the DFP draft EIS,
60 Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

completed in April 2003 (BLM 2003a). These studies were utilized to analyze cum ulative

impacts at Class I and Class II areas from emissions sources in southwest W yoming, northeast

Utah, northwest Colorado and a lim ited portion of southeast Idaho (refer to Figure 3.1). The

CD/GWII and DFP EIS analyses predicted the impacts on ambient concentrations in PSD Class I

and Class II areas, the im pacts of acid deposition of sensitive lakes, and the im pacts to regional

visibility.

Class I areas, which are allowed the sm allest increment, include national parks and wilderness

areas. The nearest Class I area to the CIAA is approxim ately 52 mi north of the project area at

the Bridger Wilderness Area. All portions of Wyoming outside of Class I areas are designated as

Class II areas. The CIAA is a Class II area and is not designated a nonattainm ent area for any

pollutant by WDEQ/AQD. Class I and Class II PSD Increm ents are shown in Table 3.2, which

indicates that all am bient concentrations (all m onitored in Class II areas) are below Class II

increments.

Chapter 6 of the WAQS&R requires WDEQ/AQD to review all plans for the construction of any

new or m odified em issions source prior to the issuance of a construction perm it. In order to

obtain a construction perm it, an em issions source m ust demonstrate compliance with em issions

standards, NAAQS, W AAQS, PSD Increm ents, and other applicable air quality regulatory

requirements. If required by W DEQ/AQD, the dem onstration m ust include air pollutant

emissions from other nearby existing em issions sources to ensure that overall air quality is

quantified as part of the permitting process.

3.3.1.2 Noise

No site-specific noise level data are available for the proposed project area; however, noise in

the area is probably in the range reported for "Grand Canyon (North Rim )" (wilderness) and

"Farm in Valley" sites (W yle Laboratories 1971). The A-weighted sound pressure level, or Ascale, is used extensively in the U.S. to m easure community and transportation noise and is a
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease 61

Figure 3.1 Air Quality CIAA.
62 Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

measure of noise in A-weighted decibels (dBA), which is directly correlated with som e

commonly heard sounds. Table 3.3 presents a list of com monly heard sounds with the

corresponding noise level (Rau and Wooten 1980).

Median noise levels for the proposed project area likely range from 20 to 40 dBA in the morning

and evening and from 50 to 60 dBA in the afternoon when wind speeds are typically greatest.

These levels correspond to noise levels of a soft whisper (30 dBA), a library (40 dBA), a quiet

office (50 dBA), a sm all town (40-50 dBA), and norm al conversation (60 dBA). Traffic along

an interstate typically averages noise levels greater than 70 dBA (W yle Laboratories 1971).

Typical ambient noise levels at an operati ng surface quarry are in the 40- to 60-dBA range for a

24-hour period, and within 50 ft of the operation the m aximum noise level m ay reach or exceed

85 to 95 dBA (BLM 1997b). Mining operations at the Jim Bridger Mine, livestock grazing

operations, and wind are presently the prim ary sources of noise in the proposed project area.

Major industrial noise sources within 4 m i of the TMRT area include the Jim Bridger Power

Plant, Jim Bridger Mine, Leucite Hills Mine, and vehicular traffic. Noise-sensitive areas in

Wyoming include private residences, occupied raptor nests, and greater sage-grouse leks during

the breeding and nesting season.

Noise levels within the working m ine area are governed by federal MSHA occupational noise

standards and regulations designed to protect worker safety (Title 30 C.F.R. Parts 62 et seq.).

3.3.2 Cultural Resources

Cultural resources are the nonrenewable physical rem ains of past hum an activity and are

protected under Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 (as amended) and

the Archaeological Resources Protection Action of 1979 (as am ended). Archaeological

investigations in the Great Divide Basin indicate that hum an activity has occurred across the

landscape over the past 10,000 years, beginning during the Paleoindian period and continuing up

to the present. Throughout the prehistoric past, the area was used by highly m obile hunters and

gathers who exploited a wide variety of natural resources (Frison 1991).
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease 63

Table 3.3 Comparison of Measured Noise Levels with Com monly Heard Sounds, TMRT

and CIAA, 2003.1

Source dBA Description

Normal breathing 10 Barely audible

Rustling leaves 20

Soft whisper (at 16 ft) 30 Very quiet

Library 40

Quiet office 50 Quiet

Normal conversation (at 3 ft) 60

Busy traffic 70 Noisy

Noisy office with machines; factory 80

Heavy truck traffic (at 49 ft) 90 Constant exposure endangers

hearing

1 Source: Rau and Wooten (1980).

A BLM Class I cultural resource inventory (i.e., file search) was conducted for the proposed

TMRT area, and the file search indicates th at 39 cultural resource inventories have been

conducted within the proposed TMRT area. These projects include well pad/access road

projects, exploratory core holes projects, and block surveys for the Jim Bridger Mine. Linear

surveys include power transm ission line projects, access roads, and an inventory of the Point of

Rocks to South Pass W agon Road. Approxim ately 2,474 acres or 42% of the TMRT area have

previously been inventoried for cultural resources; however, 640 of those acres were not

surveyed to current technical standards.

Twenty-five cultural resource sites have been recorded within proposed TMRT area, including

22 prehistoric sites and three historic sites. Three of the prehistoric sites have been

recommended eligible for inclusion on the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP),

13 prehistoric sites are recommended not eligible for the NRHP, and the NRHP eligibility of the

remaining six prehistoric sites has not been determ ined. One historic site, the Point of Rocks to

South Pass W agon Road, which occurs in several sections of the TMRT area, has been

determined eligible for inclusion on the NRHP (refer to Figure 3.2); however, the eligibility of
64 Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

the individual segments of the route within the TMRT has not been determ ined. The rem aining

two historic sites have been recommended not eligible for the NRHP.

The CIAA for cultural resources includes the TMRT area and 5-m i buffer. Num erous cultural

resource inventories have been conducted within the CIAA due to the presence of the Jim

Bridger Mine, a portion of the Leucite Hills Mine, and num erous linear and block projects in the

general area. W DEQ/LQD required the BLM Class I and III cultural resource surveys be

completed for the entire Jim Bridger and Leucite Hills mine permit areas. As a result, there m ay

be a com parable number of prehistoric and histor ic sites within the unsurveyed portions of the

CIAA.

3.3.3 Geology and Geologic Hazards

The proposed TMRT is located on the eastern fl ank of the Rock Springs uplift that is an

anticlinal structure that trends north/south through the center of the Greater Green River Basin.

The uplift is asym metric to the west, so its western flank is steeper than the eastern flank. The

eastern flank of the uplift is m arine Cretaceous and non-marine Paleocene sandstones and shales

that dip eastward 5 to 10 degrees into the Great Divide Basin (Lageson and Spearing 1988; Love

and Christiansen 1985). Coal that would be mined under the Proposed Action is described as the

coal seam of the Fort Union Form ation and has a thickness of approxim ately 7-11 ft and a heat

content of approxim ately 9,000 to 9,500 BTUs per pound. Under the Proposed Action,

approximately 121.5 m illion tons of coal would be m ined over the life of the project (BCC

2003).

Surface geology within the TMRT includes four m ajor classification units, including aeolian

mixed with scattered deposits of residuum , alluvium , and slopewash; bedrock and glaciated

bedrock including volcanic necks m ixed with scattered shallow deposits of aeolian, grus,

slopewash, colluvium residuum , and alluvium ; residuum m ixed with alluvium , aeolian,
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease 65

Figure 3.2 Location of the Point of Rocks to South Pass Wagon Road.
66 Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

slopewash, grus, and/or bedrock outcrops; and playa deposits m ixed with scattered deposits of

alluvium and aeolian soils (Case et al. 1998).

The CIAA for geology and geological hazards includes the TMRT area and 4.3-m i buffer.

Surface geology of the CIAA is sim ilar to that of the TMRT and includes predominantly aeolian

mixed with scattered deposits of residuum , alluvium, and slopewash and bedrock and glaciated

bedrock including volcanic necks m ixed with scattered shallow deposits of aeolian, grus,

slopewash, colluvium residuum, and alluvium (Case et al. 1998).

The potential for seism ic activity in the TMRT area is low to m oderate. There have been no

recorded earthquakes within the TMRT; however, there have been four recorded earthquakes

within the northern portion of the CIAA over the past 20 years. Two occurred in 1975, one in

1985, and one in 1986. All of these nondam aging earthquakes ranged in magnitude between 3.3

and 3.7 on the Richter scale and would have been barely noticeable by hum an beings in the area

(Case 2000; personal com munication, March 19, 2002, with Jam es Case, W yoming Geological

Survey). The Richter scale is a quantitative measure of the m agnitude (i.e., the relative

amplitude of ground m otion caused by seism ic waves) of an earthquake, with a lower num ber

representing lower magnitude and a higher num ber representing a higher m agnitude. There are

no known or suspected active faults in the TMRT area or the CIAA (BLM 1996b), and there are

no active or historic underground m ines within the TMRT or CIAA. The nearest historic

underground m ines are located in Superior, approxim ately 8 m i southwest of the TMRT area

(outside of the CIAA) (refer to Figure 1.1). Subsidence due to underground coal m ining at

Superior has been lim ited to the area im mediately surrounding the m ines (Case 2000; personal

communication, March 19, 2002, with Jam es Case, W yoming Geological Survey). Therefore,

there is little potential for subsidence due to the historic m ining in Superior within the TMRT

area or the CIAA.

There are also no other geologic hazards (e.g., landslide areas, hydrogen sulfide-producing wells,

or wind-blown sand areas) known within the TMRT or the CIAA (BLM 1996b). There are also
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease 67

no known Special Flood Managem ent Areas designated by Federal Em ergency Managem ent

Agency (FEMA) within the TMRT or CIAA.

3.3.4 Health and Safety (Transportation)

The prim ary health and safety risks for people living, working, and traveling in the general

proposed project area are related to vehicle traffic. Surface transportation into and out of the

TMRT area would be provided by a network of prim ary and secondary roads (refer to

Figure 1.1). Specifically, prim ary public access to the TMRT is provided on Interstate 80 from

the east and west to Point of Rocks and Wyoming State Highway 377 and County Road 15 to the

Jim Bridger Mine where the public road term inates and the private road starts. From the Jim

Bridger Mine entrance, traffic is controlle d and restricted by BCC, and only authorized

personnel are allowed to enter the m ine permit area. However, the Jim Bridger Mine cannot

legally and does not restrict access to inactive portions of the m ine property where livestock

grazing occurs. W orkers accessing the underground working within the TMRT area would

travel on improved roads and haul roads to Ramp 14 where the only access to the underground

mine would be located.

According to 2000 data from the Wyoming Department of Transportation (2001), average daily

traffic for Interstate 80 between Point of Rocks exit and the Superior exit was recorded at 12,500

over a 24-hour period, and, of that total, 6,800 were recorded as all types of trucks (e.g., pickups,

semis, flatbeds, stock trucks, etc.). For W yoming State Highway 377 north of Point of Rocks,

the average daily traffic was recorded at 1,200 vehicles over a 24-hour period, and, of the total,

180 vehicles were recorded as all types of trucks (e.g., pickups, sem is, flatbeds, stock trucks,

etc.).

3.3.5 Land Resources and Use

The surface ownership pattern within and adjacent to the TMRT is checkerboard, typically

where even-numbered sections are owned by the federal government, odd-numbered sections are
68 Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

privately owned, and select even-numbered sections are owned by the State of Wyoming. Major

land uses in the TMRT area include livestock grazing, wildlife habitat, and recreation. In

addition, some activities associated with the adjacent Jim Bridger Mine are also located within

the TMRT area. These activities include coal exploration activity, vegetation study exclosures,

access roads, and a distribution powerline. BCC has obtained ROW s and/or special use perm its

for all mine-related activities located on BLM-administered land that are located off of the

federal lease area. No other ROWs or special use permits are known to have been issued within

the TMRT by BLM (BCC 2003). In addition, there are no ROW s exclusion areas within the

TMRT area (BLM 1996b).

The TMRT includes 5,916 acres, of which 2,242 acres of coal reserves (38%) are owned by the

federal government and adm inistered by the BLM, 640 acres of coal reserves (11%) are owned

by the State of W yoming and adm inistered by the W OSLI, and 3,034 acres of coal reserves

(51%) are privately owned (refer to Figure 3.2). A detailed description of m ineral and surface

ownership for the TMRT is presented in Table 2.1.

The CIAA for land resources and use is defined as the TMRT area and a 4.3-m i buffer area

around the TMRT area and includes a total of approxim ately 78,200 acres. W ithin the CIAA

there is a total of 6,308 acres of existing distur bance. Major industrial facilities account for

4,661 acres of disturbance, roads count for 385 acres of disturbance, and m inor industrial

facilities account for 1,262 acres of disturbance.

3.3.6 Minerals (Solid and Fluid)

3.3.6.1 Leasable Solid Minerals (Coal)

Coal reserves in the TMRT are contained in the Fort Union Form ation, and there are an

estimated 121.5 m illion tons of in-place underground-m inable low-sulfur subbitum inous coal

within the D-41 seam of the TMRT. The D-41 seam ranges from 7 to 11 ft in thickness. There

are other coal seams within the TMRT area, including Deadm an #5 and #6 beds; however, these

beds are m uch thinner, ranging from 2 to 5 ft in thickness, and would not be m ined under the

Proposed Action.
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease 69

Figure 3.3 Surface Landownership in the TMRT Area and Vicinity.
70 Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

The CIAA for m ineral resources includes the TMRT area and a 4.3-m i buffer area. W ithin the

CIAA, coal continues to be m ined at the Jim Bridger Mine, which m ines coal from all of the

seams discussed above. The Jim Bridger Mine rem oved approximately 5.8 million tons of coal

in 2002 from the entire mine area (i.e., not just from the CIAA).

3.3.6.2 Leasable Fluid Minerals (Oil, Gas, and Coalbed Methane)

There is a m oderate potential for oil and gas developm ent within the TMRT area; however,

historically, there has been little interest in conventional oil and gas exploration in the TMTA

(refer to Figure 3.4) (Anderson et al. 1990; BLM 2003b; PacifiCorp 2003). W hile there are

numerous federal oil and gas leases within the TMRT area, there are no producing wells. There

are three plugged and perm anently abandoned drill holes within the TMRT area, indicating that

the tract has been explored for potential oil and gas reserves (W yoming Oil and Gas

Conservation Commission [WOGCC] 2003).

The CIAA also has a m oderate potential for oil and gas developm ent (Anderson et al. 1990)

(refer to Figure 3.4). W OGCC well records for the CIAA encom passing the TMRT area

indicates that only 17 wells have been drilled, that none of these wells have reported any

production, and that there are currently no producing wells within the CIAA (refer to Figure 3.4)

(BLM 2003b; W OGCC 2003). The nearest producing well is located approxim ately 10 m i

southeast of the TMRT, outside of the CIAA.

BLM reports indicate that there is a high potential for tertiary and upper cretaceous coalbed

methane within coal seams found in both the TMRT area and the CIAA; however, there are no

producing wells in either of these areas (BLM 1996b, 2003b). During coal exploration drilling,

BCC tested four of its exploration drill holes for the presence of coalbed methane. These wells

were 1,000+ ft deep and were drilled into the Deadman coal zone of the Fort Union Formation

(the same coal zone that would be mined under the Proposed Action). Results indicate that there

was no evidence of economic reserves of coalbed methane in any of these drill holes and the

samples were essentially devoid of methane in the coal (BLM 2003b; PacifiCorp 2003). In
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease 71

Figure 3.4 Oil and Gas Potential Within the TMRT and Vicinity.
72 Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

addition, as of January 29, 2003, the W OGCC had not issued any Applications for a Perm it to

Drill coalbed m ethane wells within the TMRT or the CIAA (BLM 2003b; PacifiCorp 2003).

Based on results of coal sam ples collected from the TMRT area, coalbed m ethane content is

insufficient to support econom ic gas developm ent in this area (BLM 2003b). The nearest

coalbed methane project is located approxim ately 11 m i northwest of the TMRT but has only

produced sm all am ounts of gas, has been tem porarily shut-in, and is not producing any gas

(BLM 2003b).

3.3.6.3 Locatable Minerals

There are no active locatable m ineral (e.g., precious m etals, bentonite, etc.) m ines or

economically recoverable deposits of locatable m inerals within the TMRT or the CIAA, and

there are no leases or claims for locatable minerals within the TMRT or CIAA (BLM 1996b).

3.3.6.4 Salable Minerals

There are no active construction aggregate quarries within the TMRT or the CIAA; however,

the BLM has identified several sand and gravel deposits along the western boundary of the

CIAA (BLM 1996b).

3.3.7 Native American Religious Concerns

In accordance with the American Indian Religious Freedom Act and BLM Manual 8160-1

Handbook (BLM 1979a), num erous Native American groups including but not lim ited to Crow,

Shoshone, Com anche, Arapaho, Cheyenne, and Sioux have utilized the proposed project area

(BLM 1996b). Native Am erican tribes were consulted during the scoping period for this EA.

Tribes and/or individuals were sent certified letters requesting their com ments concerning any

religious or cultural areas within or near the TMRT area. The CIAA for Native Am erican

religious concerns in the TMRT area and a 5-m i buffer area. To date, no sites or areas of

traditional cultural interest have been identified within the TMRT or the CIAA.
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease 73

3.3.8 Rangeland and Livestock Grazing

The TMRT is located within the Rock Springs grazing allotm ent. Grazing privileges (including

federal and state grazing allotm ents) within the proposed project area are perm itted to private

individuals. Stocking rates for livestock within the proposed project area are approximately 12.5

acres per anim al unit m onth (AUM) (personal com munication, October 15, 2003, with Kevin

Lloyd, Range/Horse Specialist, BLM, Rock Springs Field Office, W yoming). Therefore, the

entire TMRT area would potentially contain approximately 473 AUMs.

The CIAA for livestock grazing is the entire Rock Springs grazing allotment which encompasses

2,135,539 acres (refer to Figure 3.5). Approxim ately 2.0% of the CIAA (43,363 acres) is

currently disturbed by roads, m ajor industrial facilities, cities, m inor industrial facilities, and

wells and associated facilities. Approximately 92% of the allotment is utilized from December 1

to May 15 by cattle and sheep, while the rem aining 8% of the allotm ent is perm itted for spring

and fall grazing. Of the 180,000 AUMs available within the Rock Springs grazing allotm ent,

usage is approxim ately 90,000 AUMs (50% of th e available AUMs) (personal com munication,

October 15, 2003, with Kevin Lloyd, Range/Horse Specialist, BLM, Rock Springs Field Office,

Wyoming).

3.3.9 Recreation

Lands within the TMRT offer som e big game hunting opportunities for antelope, mule deer, elk,

and greater sage-grouse. Secondary recreational activities within the TMRT include cam ping,

off-road use, rock and fossil hunting, and hiking. However, given the checkerboard

landownership pattern, the controlled nature of the TMRT property, the rem oteness of the

TMRT, and the availability of other m ore potentially appealing areas in the general area, these

secondary recreational opportunities appear to r eceive limited use in the TMRT. There are no

developed recreation areas within the TMRT.
74 Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

Figure 3.5 Livestock Grazing Allotment Within the TMRT Area and CIAA.
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease 75

The Continental Divide National Scenic Tra il (CDNST) was established by Congress in 1978

and covers approximately 3,100 mi from Canada to Mexico, with approxim ately 600 mi located

within Wyoming. In accordance with the 1985 U.S. Forest Service Comprehensive Management

Plan, the on-the-ground route of the CDNST attem pts stay within 50 m i either side of the

Continental Divide. In establishing officially designated segm ents of the CDNST, the BLM

attempted to located the trail on existing prim itive two-track roads or, as necessary, im proved

roads (i.e., paved roads) and to m inimize on-the-ground segm ents that are located on privately

owned land. The BLM has also entered into cooperative agreem ents with private landowners to

provide the public with legal access to those trail segments that are located on private land.

As illustrated on Figure 3.6, the Continental Divide separates approxim ately 30 m i north of the

TMRT area near a geographic feature called Oregon Buttes. The northern branch of the

Continental Divide heads east from Oregon Buttes, crosses U.S. Highway 287 toward the Ferris

Mountains, turns south, and continues past Rawlins, W yoming. The southern branch of the

Continental Divide heads south from Oregon Buttes, turns east near Superior, W yoming, crosses

through the TMRT LBA area, and then proceeds east-southeast to a point south of Rawlins

Wyoming, where the two branches m erge back into a single geographic feature. The area

located between the two branches of the Contin ental Divide is designated as the Great Divide

hydrologic basin (Knight 1994). This is a 3,865-mi2 area where water does not flow to either the

Atlantic Ocean or the Pacific Oceans (i.e., surface water will not flow out of this area) and is the

largest internally controlled drainage basin along the Continental Divide within the US.

The only BLM-designated segm ents of the CDNST in W yoming are located along the northern

branch of the Continental Divide in central W yoming. In June 2000, the BLM Lander, Rock

Springs, and Rawlins Field Offices com pleted the official designation and signing of the 165-m i

segment between W yoming State Highway 28 near South Pass City, W yoming, and the

Medicine Bow/Routt National Forest south of Rawlins, W yoming (refer to Figure 3.6). The

CDNST segment generally follows the Continenta l Divide but deviates along a 40-m i segment

north of Rawlins, W yoming. This trail segm ent crosses land owned by private individuals, the

State of Wyoming, and the federal government (administered by the BLM).
76 Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

Figure 3.6 Location of the CDNST.
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease 77

At this time, there are no BLM officially desi gnated segments of the CDNST along the southern

branch of the Continental Divide. However, there is a possibility of the future establishm ent of

an official trail along the southern branch of the Continental Divide (personal com munication,

November 12, 2003, with Jo Foster, BLM-recreation planner, Rock Springs, W yoming). Any

new route or on-the-ground segment of the CDNST that would follow the southern branch of the

Continental Divide within the TMRT LBA area would only be approximately 0.5 to 1.0 mi away

from the proposed location of the surface support facilities for underground m ining operation

and the active highwall m ining area of the exis ting surface coal m ining operations at the Jim

Bridger Mine.

3.3.10 Socioeconomics

For the purpose of this section, the CIAA is assumed to include all of Sweetwater County.

The TMRT is located in Sweetwater County. Based on the 2000 census, Sweetwater County' s

population is estimated at 37,613, a 3.1% decrease in population from 1990 (U.S. Department of

Commerce [USDOC] 2000). Total full-tim e and part-tim e employment in Sweetwater County

was 25,246 in 1998, which was composed of 25,043 nonfarm workers and 203 farm workers. In

1998, m ining accounted for 3,966 jobs, with approxim ately 4,636 workers em ployed in retail

trade, 4,203 workers em ployed by government and government enterprises, and 12,238 workers

employed in the service industry (USDOC 2000).

Annual per capita personal incom e in Sw eetwater County was $16,810 in 1990 com pared to

$25,345 in 1998--a 50.8% increase (USDOC 2000). The adjusted annual average unemployment

rate in Sweetwater County in 2002 was 4.7% (Wyoming Department of Employment 2003). The

cost of living index for Sweetwater County was 97 during the second quarter of 2002, com pared

to a statewide average for W yoming of 100 (W yoming Division of Econom ic Analysis 2003).

According to the 1990 census, the percent of all persons living below the poverty level in

Sweetwater County was 8.5%. There were 1,816 vacant housing units or a rate of 11.4% in

Sweetwater County in 2000, com pared to the statewide average vacant housing rate of 13.5%
78 Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

(USDOC 2000). In 1999, the average annual wage for coal m iners in W yoming (not including

benefits) was approximately $58,100 (Borden et al. 1994).

Rock Springs is the closest city to the project area. Most of the workforce would reside in Rock

Springs or Green River, thereby benefiting the local economy and Sweetwater County.

As discussed earlier in this EA, coal m ined at the Jim Bridger Mine is utilized to generate

electricity at the nearby Jim Bridger Power Plant. The power plant is capable of generating

1,120 megawatts (MW) of electricity and is the largest coal-fired power plant in PacifiCorp' s or

Idaho Power’s system. In addition, the Jim Bridger Power Plant and is connected to the western

power grid through a series of transmission lines. The western power grid provides electricity to

13 western states, the provinces of British Colum bia and Alberta, and a portion of northern

Mexico.

The coal mined at the Jim Bridger Mine includes m inimal transportation costs because the m ine

is less than 10 m i away from the power plant. Once m ined, the coal is hauled directly to the

power plant by truck or via an overland conveyor system . This type of m ine-mouth operation

helps minimize the cost of electricity for com mercial and residential customers. Coal purchased

by the power plant from other suppliers would have to be transported to the power plant by rail

and would include increased transportation costs that are not currently incurred for coal that is

produced at the Jim Bridger Mine.

3.3.11 Soil Resources

The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) has not published a detailed soil survey

report for the TMRT. However, the College of Agriculture at the University of W yoming has

prepared digital soil maps (at 1:100,000 scale) for southwest Wyoming including the TMRT area

and CIAA (Munn and Arneson 1998). The CIAA includes th e TMRT area and a 4.3-m i buffer.

The TMRT is prim arily com posed of typical Torriothents, loam y m ixed, m ixed (calcareous),

frigid, shallow-Typic Haplocalcids (76%, soil m ap unit SW09). The remainder of the TMRT is
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease 79

composed of 15% dune land - Typic Torripsam ments, m ixed, frigid - Typical Torriorthents,

coarse-loamy, m ixed (calcareous), shallow (soil m ap unit SW 02) and 9% Typic Haplosalids,

fine, m ixed, frigid and Typic Haplocam bids, fine-silty, m ixed, frigid (soil m ap unit SW 08)

(refer to Figure 3.7). The soils in the areas of support facilities (e.g., conveyor and powerline)

are prim arily com posed of typical Torriothents, loam y m ixed, m ixed (calcareous), frigid,

shallow-Typical Haplocalcids (SW09) and Ustic Torriorthents, coarse-loam y, mixed, frigid, and

Typic Torrifluvents, loam y-skeletal, frigid (SW 12). In addition to the soil types described

above, the CIAA also includes Typic Torrifluvents, fine-silty and fine, mixed (calcareous), frigid

(SW01); Ustic Haplargids, fine-loam y, m ixed, frigid-Ustic Haplocam bids, find-loam y, m ixed,

frigid, and Typic Natrargids, fine-loam y, m ixed frigid (SW 11); and Ustic Torriorthents,

coarse-loamy, m ixed, frigid, and Typic Torrifluents, loam y-skeletal, frigid (SW 12). Soil

information presented in this section does not include areas that have been disturbed or

developed by industrial or mine-related activities.

3.3.12 TEC&P and BLM-sensitive Species

3.3.12.1 Introduction

The federal Endangered Species Act (16 U.S.C. 1531-1543) protects listed threatened and

endangered plant and anim al species and their critical habitats. A list of federally listed

threatened, endangered, candidate, and proposed (TEC&P) species that potentially occur in the

vicinity of the proposed project was com piled from information provided by the W yoming State

Office of the USFW S and the W yoming Natural Diversity Database (W NDD) (2003) and is

presented in Table 3.4.

TEC&P species are those that have been specifically designated as such by the USFW S.

Endangered species are those that are in danger of extinction throughout all or a significant

portion of their range. Threatened species are those that are likely to becom e endangered in the

foreseeable future throughout all or a significant portion of their range. Proposed species are

those for which the USFW S has published proposed rules in the Federal Register for listing of

the species but for which a final rule has not been adopted. Candidate species are those for
80 Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

Figure 3.7 Soil Map Units Within the TMRT and CIAA.
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease 81

which the USFWS has sufficient data to list as threatened or endangered but for which proposed

rules have not yet been issued. BLM-sensitiv e species are those that m ay warrant future

designation as candidate species but available da ta are not sufficient for USFW S to make such a

designation decision; however, these species have been designated as a BLM-sensitive species

by the BLM.

3.3.12.2 Federally Listed Animal and Plant Species

Federal threatened and endangered anim al species that m ay occur in the vicinity of the TMRT

include black-footed ferret and bald eagle (Table 3.4). The yellow-billed cuckoo is a candidate

for listing. The threatened Ute ladies' -tresses is the only federally listed plant species with the

potential to occur within or in the vicinity of the TMRT.

The USFW S is currently evaluating petitions for the possible listing of the pygm y rabbit and

greater sage-grouse under the federal Endangered Species Act. In addition, the decision by the

USFWS in 2003 to not list the mountain plover is currently under review. However, at this time,

these species are not protected under the federal Endangered Species Act.

Black-footed Ferret. The black-footed ferret, a federally endangered species, was once

distributed throughout the high plains of the Rocky Mountain and western Great Plains regions

(Clark and Stromberg 1987; Forrest et al. 1985). Prairie dogs are the m ain food of black-footed

ferrets (Sheets et al. 1972), although a few black-footed ferrets have been historically collected

away from prairie dog towns (Forrest et al. 1985). The last known wild population of

black-footed ferrets was discovered in the Pitc hfork area near Meeteetse in northwest W yoming,

in 1981. Due to the fear that canine distem per would wipe out this population, all rem aining

black-footed ferrets were captured from the Pitchfork area and placed into a captive breeding

project in 1985 (W GFD 1997). The captive breeding program is designed with the objective of

reintroducing the species into suitable habitats in the wild. The nearest black-footed ferret

reintroduction area is located approxim ately 65 m i south of the TMRT in the Little Snake

Black-footed Ferret Management Area, Moffat County, Colorado.

The Black-footed Ferret Survey Guidelines for Compliance with the Endangered Species Act

(USFWS 1989) defines potential black- footed ferret habitat as any white-tailed prairie
82 Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

Table 3.4 Federal Threatened, Endangered, Proposed, and Candidate Species and Their

Potential Occurrence Within the Proposed Project Area, 2003.1

Common Name Scientific Name Federal Status2

Potential Occurrence Within

the Proposed Project Area3

Mammals

Black-footed ferret Mustela nigripes E X

Birds

Bald eagle4 Haliaeetus leucocephalus T O

Yellow-billed cuckoo Coccyzus americanus C R

Plants

Ute ladies'-tresses Spiranthes diluvialis T X

1 The Colorado pikeminnow, razorback sucker, humpback chub, and bonytail are endangered fish species found in the upper

Colorado River and could be adversely impacted by the withdrawal of groundwater associated with the Proposed Action.

Formal consultation with the USFWS will determ ine if any im pacts would occur and an appropriate discussion will be

included in the final EA. 2 Federal status:

E = listed as federally endangered.

T = listed as federally threatened.

C = candidate for listing. 3 Species occurrence:

O = occasional; this species may occur in the project area during specific times of the year and may be locally common

when suitable food is available; generally not present for extended periods.

R = rare; species may be in the project area for just a few day s or hours (e.g., stopping over during migration), or the

species has only occasionally or rarely been sighted in the project area. Encounters during the proposed action are

very unlikely.

X = unlikely; there has been no recent historical record of the species' occurrence in th e project area; probability of

encountering the species during the Proposed Action is very unlikely. 4 Proposed for removal from federal listing.

dog towns or com plexes greater than 200 acres in size with a burrow density of greater than

20 burrows per hectare (8 burrows per acre). Prairie dogs are known to occur within the

TMRT; however, prairie dog towns have not been delineated nor densities calculated.

Therefore, potential black-footed ferret habitat m ay occur within the TMRT. No recent blackfooted ferret observations have been recorded in the vicinity of the TMRT (WNDD 2003).

Bald Eagle. The bald eagle is a federal thr eatened species (down-listed from endangered and

now proposed for rem oval from federal listing) th at requires cliffs, large trees, or sheltered

canyons associated with concentrated food sources (e.g., fisheries or waterfowl concentration

areas) for nesting and/or roosting areas (Edwards 1969; Snow 1973; Call 1978; Steenhof 1978;

Peterson 1986). Bald eagles forage over wide areas during the nonnesting season (i.e., fall and

winter) and scavenge on animal carcasses such as pronghorn, deer, and elk.
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease 83

No bald eagle nests or winter roosts are known to occur in the TMRT; the lack of suitable

nesting or winter roosting habitats within the TMRT likely precludes its use for such activities

by bald eagles. The Green River, Flam ing Gorge Reservoir, Big Sandy Reservoir, and

Seedskadee National W ildlife Refuge provide the nearest favorable nesting, roosting, and

foraging habitat for bald eagles. The nearest of these areas is the Green River, approxim ately 40

mi west of the TMRT. Searches of the W NDD revealed no records of bald eagles in the vicinity

of the TMRT, including the Jim Bridger Reservoir (W NDD 2003); however, it is likely that

individual bald eagles occasionally forage in or fly through the area.

Yellow-billed cuckoo. The yellow-billed cuckoo is a federal candidate and BLM-sensitive

species. In W yoming, the yellow-billed cuckoo is a rare sum mer breeder that arrives from

wintering grounds in South Am erica late May and departs Septem ber to October. The

yellow-billed cuckoo is prim arily found in open stream side deciduous woodland with low,

scrubby vegetation under growth bordering the Bighorn, Powder, North Platte, Henry's Fork, and

Black's Fork Rivers. Cottonwood stands and willow thickets are preferred for nesting and

foraging (WNDD 2003). The yellow-billed cuckoo has been identified as potentially occurring

in the riparian areas west of the Continental Divide; however, it is highly unlikely that the

yellow-billed cuckoo occurs in the TMRT, since no riparian habitat is present and no

observations have been recorded in the vicinity (W NDD 2003). The nearest potential yellowbilled cuckoo habitat is likely located along the Green River located approxim ately 40 mi to the

west of the TMRT. The likelihood of yellow-billed cuckoo presence in the project area is

extremely low; therefore, the yellow-billed cuckoo is not expected to be im pacted by the

Proposed Action and is not discussed further in this EA.

Ute ladies'-tresses. Ute ladies' -tresses, a federal threatened species, is a perennial plant and a

member of the orchid fam ily that inhabits m oist stream banks, wet m eadows, and abandoned

stream channels at elevations of 4,500-6,800 ft (Fertig 1994; Spackm an et al. 1997). W here it

occurs in ephem eral drainages, groundwater is typically shallow (i.e., within approxim ately

18 inches of the ground surface) (personal communication, March 16, 2000, with Pat Deibert,

USFWS; personal communication, March 22, 2000, with Walt Fertig, WNDD). No suitable Ute

ladies'-tresses habitat occurs within the TMRT, and no known occurrences have been recorded in

the vicinity of the TMRT (W NDD 2003). The likelihood of Ute ladies'-tresses being present in

the project area is extremely low; therefore, the Ute ladies'-tresses is not expected to be impacted

by the Proposed Action and is not discussed further in this EA.
84 Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

3.3.12.3 BLM-sensitive Animal and Plant Species

Based on habitat preference and geographic location, num erous BLM-sensitive species are

known to occur or potentially to occur within the TMRT. Table 3.5 presents a list of

BLM-sensitive species identified by the BLM Rock Springs Field Office. BLM-sensitive animal

or plant species observed in or in the vicinity of the TMRT include white-tailed prairie dog,

pygmy rabbit, white-faced ibis, ferruginous hawk, greater sage-grouse, long-billed curlew,

burrowing owl; sage thrasher, Brewer' s sparrow, northern leopard frog, Great Basin spadefoot,

mystery wormwood, and Nelson's milkvetch (WNDD 2002).

3.3.13 Vegetation (Including Invasive Species)

Based upon 1:100,000 scale mapping, Wyoming big sagebrush is the dominant plant community

within the TMRT, along the proposed access road, along the proposed overland conveyor, and

adjacent to County Road 15 (U.S. Geological Survey 1996). W yoming big sagebrush is the

dominant plant community along a portion of the proposed overland conveyor and the proposed

powerline (refer to Figure 3.8). Dom inant species in big sagebrush plant com munity include

Wyoming big sagebrush, black greasewood, shadscale, broom snakeweed, fringed sage, Hood' s

phlox, prairie Junegrass, needle-and-thread, green needlegrass, blue gram a, bluebunch

wheatgrass, alkali sacaton, western wheatgrass, and threadleaf sedge.

The CIAA for vegetation includes the two fifth-level watersheds that drain the TMRT--Middle

Black Rock Creek and Upper Deadman Wash. Together, they have a combined drainage area of

67,815 acres (refer to Figure 3.8). Vegetation in the CIAA is com posed primarily of Wyoming

big sagebrush, greasewood fans and flats, and shrub-dom inated riparian vegetation communities

(refer to Table 3.6 and Figure 3.8). The greasewood fans and flats com munity type is generally

found along streams on fine-textured, saline upland areas and on basin fans and flats with black

greasewood comprising more than 75% of the total shrub cover. The shrub-dom inated riparian

type occurs along drainages where shrubs com prise more than 25% of the vegetative cover and

are generally comprised of black greasewood and various sagebrush species (Merrill et al. 1996).
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease 85

Table 3.5 BLM-sensitive Species and Habitat Preference, Rock Springs Field Office,

TMRT and CIAA, 2003.

Species

Common Name Scientific Name Habitat Likely1

Mammals

Long-eared Myotis Myotis evotis Conifer and deciduous forests, caves and mines

Fringed Myotis Myotis thysanodes Conifer forests, woodland-chaparral, caves and mine

Spotted Bat Euderma maculatum Cliffs over perennial water, basin-prairie shrub

Townsend's Big-eared Bat Corynorhinus townsendii Forests, basin-prairie shrub, caves and mines

Pygmy Rabbit Brachylagus idahoensis Basin-prairie and riparian shrub X

White-tailed Prairie Dog Cynomys leucurus Basin-prairie shrub, grasslands X

Wyoming Pocket Gopher Thomomys clusius Meadows with loose soil

Idaho Pocket Gopher Thomomys idahoensis Shallow stony soils

Swift Fox Vulpes velox Grasslands

Birds

White-faced Ibis Plegadis chihi Marshes, wet meadows X

Trumpeter Swan Cygnus buccinator Lakes, ponds, rivers

Northern Goshawk Accipter gentilis Conifer and deciduous forests

Ferruginous Hawk Buteo regalis Basin-prairie shrub, grassland, rock outcrops X

Greater Sage-grouse Centrocercus urophasianus Basin-prairie shrub, mountain-foothill shrub X

Long-billed Curlew Numenius americanus Grasslands, plains, foothills, wet meadows X

Yellow-billed Cuckoo Coccyzus americanus Open woodlands, streamside willow and alder groves

Burrowing Owl Athene cunicularia Grasslands, basin-prairie shrub X

Sage Thrasher Oreoscoptes montanus Basin-prairie shrub, mountain-foothill shrub X

Loggerhead Shrike Lanius ludovicianus Basin-prairie shrub, mountain-foothill shrub X

Brewer's Sparrow Spizella breweri Basin-prairie shrub X

Mountain Plover Charadrius montanus Shortgrass, great basin-foothills grassland, and

sagebrush-grasslands

X

Fish

Roundtail Chub Gila robusta Colorado River drainage, mostly large rivers, also

streams and lakes

Leatherside Chub Gila copei Bear, Snake and Green drainages, clear, cool streams

and pools

Bluehead Sucker Catostomus discobolus Bear, Snake and Green drainages, all waters

Flannelmouth Sucker Catostomus latipinnis Colorado River drainage, large rivers, streams and

lakes

Colorado River Cutthroat

Trout

Oncorhynchus clarki pleuriticus Colorado River drainage, clear mountain streams

Reptiles

Midget Faded Rattlesnake Crotalus viridis concolor Mountain foothills shrub, rock outcrop

Amphibians

Northern Leopard Frog Rana pipiens Beaver ponds, permanent water in plains and

foothills

X

Great Basin Spadefoot Spea intermontana Spring seeps, permanent and temporary waters X
86 Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

Table 3.5 (Continued)

Species

Common Name Scientific Name Habitat Likely1

Boreal (Northern Rocky

Mountain population) Toad

Bufo boreas boreas Pond margins, wet meadows, riparian areas

Spotted Frog Ranus pretiosa (lutieventris) Ponds, sloughs, small streams

Plants

Meadow Pussytoes Antennaria arcuata Moist, hummocky meadows, seeps or springs

surrounded by sage/grasslands 4,950-7,900 ft

Small Rock Cress Arabis pusilla Cracks/Crevices in sparsely vegetated

granite/pegmatite outcrops w/in sage/grasslands

8,000-8,100 ft

Mystery Wormwood Artemisia biennis

var. diffusa

Clay flats and playas 6,500 ft X

Nelson's Milkvetch Astragalus nelsonianus -orAstragalus pectinatus

var. platyphyllus

Alkaline clay flats, shale bluffs and gullies, pebbly

slopes, and volcanic cinders in sparsely vegetated

sagebrush, juniper, and cushion plant communities at

5,200-7,600 ft

X

Precocious Milkvetch Astragalus proimanthus Cushion plant communities on rocky, clay soils

mixed with shale on summits and slopes of white

shale hills 6,800-7,200 ft

Cedar Rim Thistle Cirsium aridum Barren, chalky hills, gravelly slopes, and fine

textured, sandy-shaley draws 6,700-7,200 ft

Ownbey's Thistle Cirsium ownbeyi Sparsely vegetated shaley slopes in sage and juniper

communities 6,440-8,400 ft

Wyoming Tansymustard Descurainia torulosa Sparsely vegetated sandy slopes at base of cliffs of

volcanic breccia or sandstone 8,300-10,000 ft

Large-fruited Bladderpod Lesquerella macrocarpa Gypsum-clay hills and benches, clay flats, and barren

hills 7,200-7,700 ft

Stemless Beardtongue Penstemon acaulis var. acaulis Cushion plant or Black sage grassland communities

on semi-barren rocky ridges, knolls, and slopes at

5,900-8,200 ft

Beaver Rim Phlox Phlox pungens Sparsely vegetated slopes on sandstone, siltstone, or

limestone substrates 6,000-7,400 ft

Tufted Twinpod Physaria condensata Sparsely vegetated shale slopes and ridges

6,500-7,000 ft

Green River Greenthread Thelesperma caespitosum White shale slopes and ridges of Green River

Formation 6,300 ft

Uinta Greenthread Thelesperma pubescens Sparsely vegetated benches and ridges on coarse,

cobbly soils of Bishop Conglomerate 8,200-8,900 ft

Cedar Mountain Easter Daisy Townsendia microcephala Rocky slopes of Bishop Conglomerate 8,500 ft

1 Likely to occur in or in the vicinity of the TMRT based on habitat and WNDD data (2003).
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease 87

Figure 3.8 Major Vegetation Com munities W ithin the TMRT and CIAA (as of January

2000).
88 Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

Table 3.6 Major Vegetation Communities Within the TMRT and CIAA.

Vegetation Community Approx. % Within TMRT Approx. % Within CIAA

Greasewood fans and flats -- 1

Open water -- 2

Shrub-dominated riparian -- 3

Surface mine operations -- 10

Wyoming big sagebrush 100 84

Approximately 9.6% of the CIAA (6,511 acres) has been disturbed by m ajor industrial facilities,

minor industrial facilities, wells and associated facilities, and roads.

Invasive species (i.e., noxious weeds) known to exist in the vicinity of the TMRT include

perennial pepperweed ( Lepidium latifolium), hoary cress ( Cardaria spp.), Canada thistle

(Cirsium arvense), and dalm ation toadflax ( Linaria dalmatica) (personal com munication,

October 27, 2003, with Jim Cotterm an, Sweetwate r County W eed and Pest Control, Farson,

Wyoming).

3.3.14 Wastes (Hazardous and Solid)

There are no known hazardous or solid wastes present with the TMRT. Hazardous and solid

wastes generated within the vicinity of the TMRT area include those generated and produced in

association with surface coal m ining, oil and natural gas exploration, developm ent, and

production, and activities conducted at the Jim Bridger Power Plant. Under Resource

Conservation and Recovery Act regulations, the Jim Bridger Mine and the Jim Bridger Power

Plant are both registered as a sm all-quantity generators. There are also two perm itted and active

solid waste disposal sites within the vicin ity of the TMRT area, one operated by BCC and one

operated by the Jim Bridger Power Plant (personal com munication, April 18, 2002, with Kathy

Brown, WDEQ, Solid and Hazardous Waste Division (SHWD), Lander, Wyoming).
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease 89

3.3.15 Water Resources

3.3.15.1 Surface Water Resources

The TMRT straddles the Continental Divide, with approxim ately 56% of the TMRT located

within the Great Divide Basin (this is a clos ed basin that does not flow out of W yoming) and

44% of the TMRT within the Upper Green Rive r drainage basin, a tributary of the Colorado

River (refer to Figure 3.9). There are no perennial or interm ittent streams or springs within the

proposed TMRT. The TMRT is prim arily drained by two ephem eral drainages--Middle Black

Rock Creek, located north and east of the TMRT, and Upper Deadm an Wash, located south of

the Continental Divide. Middle Black Rock Creek drains into the Great Divide Basin, while

Upper Deadman Wash drains into Bitter Creek at Point of Rocks, W yoming, and is located

within the Upper Green River Basin (refer to Figure 3.9).

The surface water that flows within Deadm an Wash is highly variable in quality depending on

the nature of the runoff. Runoff from snowmelt usually generates lower concentrations of total

dissolved solids (TDS) and total suspended solid s (TSS) than runoff from rainfall storm events.

The average water quality of Deadm an Wash meets WDEQ/WQD standards for livestock class

of use (Class III) (BCC 2003). The TDS level averages about 3,300 parts per million (ppm), pH

averages approximately 7.9, and bicarbonate averages approximately 290 ppm.

While no data are available for Black Rock Creek, water quality is expected to be sim ilar to that

of Deadman Wash.

All the ephem eral channels within the project area have been designated as having Class 4

surface water quality by W DEQ/WQD. The Class 4 designation in Chapter 1 of the

WDEQ/WQD regulations means waters that cannot support fish (WDEQ/WQD 1990).

The CIAA for surface water resources are the tw o fifth-level watersheds that drain the

TMRT--Middle Black Rock Creek and Upper Deadman Wash. Together, they have a combined
90 Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

Figure 3.9 Surface Water Drainages and Features Located Within the TMRT and CIAA.
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease 91

drainage area of 67,815 acres (refer to Figure 3.9). The CIAA includes approxim ately 93 mi of

ephemeral stream s and one large playa (512 acres). Approxim ately 9.6% of the CIAA

(6,511 acres), has been disturbed by m ajor industrial facilities, m inor industrial facilities, well

and associated facilities, and roads.

3.3.15.2 Groundwater Resources

Groundwater within the TMRT and vicinity is contained in several aquifers. Alluvial aquifers

are found in som e of the surface drainage channels and aquifers of the Fort Union Form ation

overburden, Deadman Formation coal zone, and Lance Form ation. The Fort Union Form ation

overburden is the only aquifer that is capable of a sustainable yield of approximately 1 gallon per

minute. The upper Lance Formation, located below the Fort Union Formation, is classified as an

aquitard (i.e., a leaky confining bed that transm its water at a very slow rate to or from an

adjacent aquifer), even though it is a water-bearing form ation. In som e areas, the Continental

Divide appears to affect the piezom etric surf ace of these aquifers; however, in general the

regional groundwater flow is in a northeasterly direction (BCC 2003).

The proposed underground m ine would likely intercept groundwater contained in the Deadm an

coal zone of the Fort Union Form ation. The Fort Union Form ation is approxim ately 1,500 ft

thick in the area of the TMRT. Except for wa ter used by BCC for exploration drilling, there are

no known groundwater appropriations (i.e., wate r rights) issued by the W SEO for use of

groundwater from the Deadm an coal zone aquifer within the vicinity of the TMRT. BCC has

appropriations for groundwater rights for portions of the Deadm an coal zone aquifer located

within the existing surface mining operation (BCC 2003).

The groundwater quality from wells within the BCC mine area within the Deadm an coal zone

aquifer indicates an average TDS of 1,711 ppm , bicarbonate of 664 ppm, and sulfur of 656 ppm.

The pH of the groundwater average approximately 8.0. Average water quality of the Fort Union

aquifer meets WDEQ/WQD standards for agricultural use (Class II) (W DEQ/WQD 1993; BCC

2003).
92 Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

The closest surface expression of groundwater to the TMRT is at Radar Springs, approxim ately

1 mi northwest of the tract.

3.3.16 Wetlands/Riparian Areas

A jurisdicational wetland inventory of the TMRT area was com pleted in 2002 and determ ined

that there are no jurisdictional wetlands within the TMRT area (Interm ountain Resources 2002).

While the inventory has been com pleted, it has not been form ally submitted to the U.S. Arm y

Corps of Engineers for a formal review and determination.

The CIAA for wetland resources are the two fifth-level watersheds that drain the TMRT--Middle

Black Rock Creek and Upper Deadman Wash. Together, they have a combined drainage area of

67,815 acres (refer to Figure 3.10). The CIAA includes approxim ately 100 acres of potential

wetlands that are com posed of palustrine tem porarily flooded (USW FS wetland classification

PUSA), lacustrine/limnetic (USFWS wetland classification L1) and lacustrine/littoral (USFW S

wetland classification L2). In addition, there is a total of 34 m i of ephemeral streams (USFWS

wetland classification R4SB) and adjacent wetlands (USFW S wetland classification PEM, PSS,

and PUS) (USFWS 1997) (refer to Figure 3.10). Approximately 9.6% of the CIAA (6,511 acres)

has been disturbed by m ajor industrial facilities, m inor industrial facilities, wells and associated

facilities, and roads.

3.3.17 Wild Horses

The TMRT is located within the Great Divide Basin W ild Horse Herd Managem ent Area

(GDBWHMA) (refer to Figure 3.11). The GDBW HMA encompasses 778,915 acres, of which

73% is public land. The GDBW HMA is located from the Rawlins-Rock Springs District

boundary west to the Continental Divide. The "herd-appropriate m anagement level" for the

Great Divide Basin herd is between 415 to 600 wild horses, and the herd is currently estimated to

have approxim ately 500 wild horses (personal com munication, October 30, 2003, with Kevin
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease 93

Figure 3.10 Potential Wetlands Located Within the TMRT and CIAA (as of 1983).
94 Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

Figure 3.11 Great Divide Basin Wild Horse Herd Management Area.
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease 95

Lloyd, Range Conservationist/W ild Horse Specialist, BLM, Rock Springs Field Office,

Wyoming).

The CIAA for wild horses is the GDBW HMA. Approxim ately 2.4% or 18,360 acres of the

CIAA has been disturbed. Approximately 10,674 acres within the CIAA have been disturbed by

major industrial facilities, 3,672 acres by m inor industrial facilities, 3,404 acres by roads, and

610 acres by wells and associated facilities.

3.3.18 Wildlife

Wildlife surveys (such as aerial big gam e surveys, driving surveys, greater sage-grouse lek

surveys, raptor nest surveys, etc.) have been conducted for more that 20 years at the Jim Bridger

Mine. Results of the baseline and annual m onitoring surveys are reported in perm it documents

and annual reports subm itted to WDEQ/LQD. Some of the surveys were also conducted within

a 2-m i buffer surrounding BCC's current perm it boundary that overlaps with portions of the

TMRT. Additional com plete surveys of the TMRT were conducted by BCC in 2001 during the

exploratory drilling of the TMRT. Wildlife species composition within the TMRT is anticipated

to be generally com parable to those found on the adjacent Jim Bridger Mine, except that no

water fowl and shorebirds are expected in the TMRT.

3.3.18.1 Big Game

Three big gam e species--pronghorn antelope, m ule deer, and elk--occur within or im mediately

adjacent to the TMRT. The population estim ates for big gam e herds provided below are based

upon W GFD m odels presented in the m ost r ecent annual big gam e herd unit report (W GFD

2003).

Pronghorn Antelope. Pronghorn antelope in the proposed project area belong to the Red Desert

Pronghorn Antelope Herd (herd unit 615). The Red Desert Pronghorn Antelope Herd had a 2002

postseason population estim ate of 14,000 antelope, approxim ately 93% of the population
96 Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

objective of 15,000 anim als (W GFD 2003). The 5-year (1997-2001) population average was

14,890 animals (99% of objective) (WGFD 2003).

Approximately 1,726 acres or 29% of the TMRT is habitat the W GFD has designated as crucial

winter/yearlong antelope range (W GFD 2003), and the rem aining 71% is designated as

winter/yearlong habitat (refer to Figure 3.12). The proposed new access road would be

constructed in winter/yearlong habitat, whereas the conveyor and powerline would be

constructed in crucial antelope winter range.

The CIAA for pronghorn antelope is the entire Red Desert herd unit which encom passes

approximately 2,167,479 acres (refer to Figure 3.13). Approxim ately, 85% of the CIAA is

located in winter/yearlong range, 13% is located in crucial winter/yearlong range, and 2% is

located in spring/sum mer/fall range (refer to Figure 3.13). Approxim ately 1.52% of the CIAA

(32,983 acres) has been disturbed by m ajor industrial facilities, minor industrial facilities, roads,

and well and associated facilities. W ithin the range designated as crucial winter/yearlong range,

approximately 14,101 acres have been disturbed by m ajor industrial facilities, m inor industrial

facilities, roads, and wells and associated facilities. This represents approxim ately 5.17% of all

crucial winter/yearlong range within the CIAA.

Mule Deer. Mule deer within the TMRT belong to Steam boat Mule Deer herd unit (herd

unit 430). The core of this population inhabits the canyons and mesas associated with Steamboat

Mountain and Oregon Butte north of the TMRT. Another segment of the population inhabits the

Green River riparian zone west of the TM RT. The Steam boat Mule Deer Herd had a 2002

posthunting season population estim ate of 3,100 m ule deer, approxim ately 78% the population

objective of 4,000 anim als (W GFD 2003) The 5-year (1997-2001) population average was

3,120 animals (78% of objective) (WGFD 2003).

All of the TMRT and project-related support facilities (access road, powerline, and conveyor)

would be located in habitat the W GFD has designated as winter/yearlong m ule deer range
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease 97

Figure 3.12 Pronghorn Antelope Range Within the TMRT.
98 Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

Figure 3.13 Pronghorn Antelope Range Within the CIAA.
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease 99

(WGFD 2003). No m ule deer crucial winter range occurs within the TMRT (refer to

Figure 3.13) (WGFD 2003).

The CIAA for m ule deer is the entire Steam boat herd unit, which encom passes approximately

2,553,133 acres (refer to Figure 3.14). Approxim ately, 25% of the CIAA is located in

winter/yearlong range, 8% is located in crucial winter/yearlong range, and 4% is located in

spring/summer/fall range (refer to Figure 3.15). The rem aining 62% of the CIAA does not

contain enough anim als to be im portant habitat or the habitats are of lim ited importance to this

species and is designated by the W GFD as "out" (refer to Figure 3.15). Approxim ately 1.7% of

the CIAA (44,168 acres) has been disturbed by m ajor industrial facilities, m inor industrial

facilities, roads, and well and associated facilities. W ithin the range designated as crucial

winter/yearlong range, approxim ately 3,503 acres have been disturbed by m ajor industrial

facilities, minor industrial facilities, roads, and wells and associated facilities. This represents

approximately 1.7% of all of the crucial winter/yearlong range within the CIAA.

Elk. Elk within the TMRT belong to Steam boat Elk herd unit (herd unit 426). This herd unit

occupies the area north of Rock Springs, east of Green River, south of W yoming Highway 28

and the Sweetwater River, and west of W amsutter. This unique elk herd exists alm ost entirely

on the sagebrush desert ecosystem as there is little conifer or aspen habitat available for use by

the elk that inhabit this area year-round (W GFD 2003). At the Decem ber 2002 m eeting of the

Wyoming Game and Fish Com mission, the com mission revised the population objective from

500 anim als to 1,200 anim als for the Steam boat Elk herd unit. This is an increase of 140%

above the previous population objectives as of the end 2001. The Steam boat Elk Herd had a

2002 postseason population estim ate of 1,660 elk, approxim ately 138% of the population

objective of 1,200 anim als (W GFD 2003). The 5-year (1997-2001) population average was

1,750 animals (146% of population objective) (WGFD 2003).

Approximately 70% of the TMRT is designated by the W GFD as winter/yearlong elk range

(WGFD 2003), and approxim ately 30% of the TMRT is designated as yearlong range (refer to
100 Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

Figure 3.14 Mule Deer Range Within the TMRT and Vicinity.
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease 101

Figure 3.15 Mule Deer Range Within the CIAA.
102 Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

Figure 3.16). The proposed access road and conveyor would be located within habitats that are

of limited importance to this species. No crucial winter range for elk occurs within the TMRT.

The nearest elk crucial range is located approxim ately 5.0 mi east of the proposed project (refer

to Figure 3.16).

The CIAA for elk is the entire Steam boat herd unit which encom passes approxim ately

2,649,306 acres (refer to Figure 3.17). Approxim ately 13% is located in spring/sum mer/fall

range, 11% of the CIAA is located in crucial wi nter range or crucial winter/yearlong range, 9%

in winter/yearlong range, 7% in winter range, and 2% in yearlong range (refer to Figure 3.8).

The remaining 58% of the CIAA does not contain e nough animals to be important habitat or the

habitats are of limited importance to this species and is designated by the W GFD as "out" (refer

to Figure 3.17). Approxim ately 1.6% of the CIAA (43,356 acres) has been disturbed by m ajor

industrial facilities, m inor industrial facilities, ro ads, and well and associated facilities. W ithin

the range designated as crucial winter range or crucial winter/yearlong range, approxim ately

1,873 acres have been disturbed by m ajor industrial facilities, m inor industrial facilities, roads,

and wells and associated facilities. This represents approxim ately 0.6% of all crucial winter and

crucial winter/yearlong range within the CIAA.

3.3.18.2 Other Mammals

Predators known to occur or to potentially occu r in the TMRT and CIAA are coyote, red fox,

raccoon, erm ine, long-tailed weasel, badger, western spotted skunk, striped skunk, m ountain

lion, and bobcat. Lagom orph species include desert cottontail, m ountain (Nuttall's) cottontail,

and white-tailed jackrabbit. Squirrels known to occur or to potentially occur include least

chipmunk, Wyoming ground squirrel, golden-mantled ground squirrel, and thirteen-lined ground

squirrel. Other rodents include four species of pocket gopher (northern, plains, Merriam 's, and

Great Basin), two species of pocket m ouse (olive-backed and northern), Ord's kangaroo rat, deer

mouse, northern grasshopper mouse, bushy-tailed woodrat, six species of vole (western, heather,

meadow, long-tailed, prairie, and sagebrush), and western jum ping m ouse. Bats (western
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease 103

 Figure 3.16 Elk Range Within the TMRT and Vicinity.
104 Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

Figure 3.17 Elk Range Within the CIAA.
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease 105

small-footed, long-eared, fringed, long-legged, little brown, and silver-haired) m ay also occur

(WGFD 1999).

3.3.18.3 Raptors

Raptor species known to occur or potentially to occur within the TMRT and CIAA include bald

eagle (addressed in Section 3.3.12.2), peregrine falcon, golden eagle, prairie falcon, Am erican

kestrel, merlin, Swainson's hawk, ferruginous hawk, red-tailed hawk (winter resident), northern

harrier, rough-legged hawk, great horned owl, burrowing owl, and short-eared owl (W GFD

1999; BCC 2003; BLM 2002b).

Historically, portions of the TMRT have been included in the annual raptor m onitoring surveys

conducted for BCC's current surface coal m ine operation. Raptor surveys were also conducted

in 2003 within the entire TMRT or adjacent to the TMRT to determ ine the occupancy and

productivity of individual raptor nests. Nine raptor nests are located within the TMRT; seven of

these nests were identified as ferruginous hawk nests and two were identified as red-tailed hawk

nests (refer to Figure 3.12) (BCC 2003). Only one of the nests (a red-tailed hawk) within the

TMRT was active in 2003 (BCC 2003).

The CIAA for raptors includes the TMRT area and a 2-m i buffer (30,366 acres). There are

approximately 31 raptor nest sites within the CIAA, and m any of these sites have been or are

currently being m onitored annually for occupancy and productivity by personnel from BCC for

the Jim Bridger Mine and Black Butte Coal Com pany for the Leucite Hills Mine (refer to

Figure 3.18). Of the 31 known raptor nests in the CI AA, five were determ ined to be active in

2003 (BCC 2003). W ithin the CIAA for raptors, there is approxim ately 3,536 acres of existing

disturbance; 2,667 acres of disturbance due to m ajor industrial facilities, 707 acres due to m inor

industrial facilities, and 162 acres due to roads. This represents 11.6% of the total area of the

CIAA.
106 Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

Figure 3.18 Raptor Nests Within the TMRT and Vicinity.
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease 107

3.3.18.4 Upland Game Birds

The proposed project area is located within W GFD upland gam e bird m anagement area

number 7. Mourning dove is the only upland gam e bird species other than greater sage-grouse

likely to occur on and adjacent to the proposed project area (BCC 2003).

Two greater sage-grouse leks are known to occur with the TMRT (Figure 3.19), of which one

was found to be occupied by grouse in 2003 (BCC 2003; WGFD 2003).

The CIAA for upland bird species encom passes 946,912 acres and includes portions of Upland

Game Managem ent Area 7 (W GFD 2003) and Lower Green River Basin Sage Grouse

Conservation Planning area (W GFD 2003) north of Interstate 80, east of W yoming Highway

191, and south of W yoming Highway 28 (refer to Figure 3.20). The CIAA contains 43 known

greater sage-grouse leks (W GFD 2003). Thirty-six of the leks in the CIAA were m onitored in

2003, and 16 (44%) were found to contain birds (W GFD Green River District n.d.).

Approximately 2.2% of the CIAA (20,899 acres) has been disturbed by m ajor industrial

facilities, minor industrial facilities, cities, roads, and wells and associated facilities.

3.3.18.5 Other Birds

Bird species potentially occurring within the TMRT, based upon range and habitat preference,

include com mon nighthawk, Say' s phoebe, western kingbird, horned lark, swallows

(e.g., violet-green, barn, cliff), black-billed m agpie, common raven, Am erican crow, rock wren,

mountain bluebird, loggerhead shrike, Brewer' s sparrow, vesper sparrow, savannah sparrow,

sage sparrow, lark bunting, McCown' s longspur, red-winged blackbird, western m eadowlark,

Brewer's blackbird, com mon grackle, green-tailed towhee, and brown-headed cowbird (W GFD

1999).

Since there are no perm anent surface water bodi es within the TMRT, it is unlikely that

waterfowl and shorebirds would nest in the TMRT area; however, several species of waterfowl

and wading/shore birds m ay seasonally utilize the playa located within the TMRT area, the flue

gas-desulfurization or evaporation ponds located south of the TMRT. The nearest potential
108 Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

Figure 3.19 Greater Sage-grouse Leks Within the TMRT.
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease 109

Figure 3.20 Greater Sage-grouse Leks Within the CIAA.
110 Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

waterfowl and shorebird nesting habitat is likely located along the Deadm an Wash and lakes

and ponds associated with the Jim Bridger Power Plant south of the TMRT.

The CIAA for other birds encom passes the TMRT area and a 4.3-m i buffer area around the

TMRT area and includes a total of approxim ately 78,200 acres. W aterfowl species likely to

occur in the CIAA include common loon, pied-billed grebe, horned grebe, western grebe, Clark's

grebe, eared grebe, white pelican, double-breasted corm orant, Am erican coot, Canada goose,

mallard, green-winged teal, northern pintail, blue-winged teal, cinnam on teal, northern shoveler,

redhead, ring-necked duck, goodwill, American wigeon, and common merganser (WGFD 1999).

Within the CIAA, there is a total of 6,308 acres of existing disturbance. Major industrial

facilities account for 4,661 acres of disturbance, ro ads account for 385 acres of disturbance, and

minor industrial facilities account for 1,262 acres of disturbance.

3.3.18.6 Amphibians, Reptiles, and Fish

Based on range and habitat preference, few if any amphibians or reptiles would be found within

the TMRT. Due to the lack of perm anent water bodies or perennial stream s, the TMRT would

not support any fish populations.

The CIAA for am phibians, reptiles, and fish encom passes the TMRT area and a 4.3-m i buffer

area around the TMRT area and includes a total of approxim ately 78,200 acres. Several

amphibian and reptile species are known to or m ay occur within the Deadm an W ash located

south of the TMRT area. Am phibians include tiger salam ander, western toad, striped chorus

frog, northern leopard frog, and Great Basin spadefoot, all of which m ay occur primarily in and

adjacent to aquatic habitats within the lower portions of the Deadman Wash below of the TMRT.

Reptile species include eastern short-horned lizard, racer, northern sagebrush lizard, prairie

rattlesnake, Great Basin gopher snake, western rattlesnake, and valley garter snake (BCC 2003;

WGFD 1999). None of the stream s, draws, and washes within the CIAA are known to support

any permanent fish populations (WGFD 1991). Within the CIAA, there is a total of 6,308 acres

of existing disturbance. Major industrial facilities account for 4,661 acres of disturbance, roads

count for 385 acres of disturbance, and m inor industrial facilities account for 1,262 acres of

disturbance.
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease 111

4.0 ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES

In accordance with 40 C.F.R. 1502.16, this chapter of the EA includes a discussion of the

potential environmental consequences of the Proposed Action and the No Action Alternative on

each of the affected resources. An environm ental impact is defined as a change in the quality or

quantity of a given resource due to a m odification in the existing environm ent resulting from

project-related activities. Impacts may be beneficial or adverse, m ay be a primary result (direct)

or secondary result (indirect) of an action, and m ay be perm anent and long-term or tem porary

and of a short duration. Im pacts may vary in degree from a slightly discernible change to a total

change in the environm ent. This im pact assessm ent assum es that all applicant-com mitted

measures described in the Proposed Action would be successfully im plemented. If such

measures were not implemented, additional adverse impacts may occur.

Residual impacts are impacts resulting from the Proposed Action after application of appropriate

mitigation m easures (BLM 1988). These im pacts would rem ain for som e period of tim e but

would eventually subside or would be am eliorated by natural conditions and would not be

permanent. For exam ple, increased surface water erosion would eventually be reduced after

disturbed soils are stabilized, native vegetation is planted and becom es re-established, and

stream channels are naturally stabilized. Residual im pacts are different from irreversible and

irretrievable impacts. Residual im pacts will eventually subside and would no longer result in

adverse conditions, while irreversible and irretrievable im pacts are perm anent conditions that

cannot be altered after they have occurred (e.g., the m ining and burning of the federal coal

within the TMRT area).

Cumulative impacts result from the incremental impacts of an action added to other past, present,

and reasonably foreseeable future actions, regardless of who is responsible for such actions.

Cumulative im pacts m ay result from individually m inor, but collectively significant, actions

occurring over a period of tim e (40 C.F.R. 1508.7). The boundary of individual CIAA areas for

this EA are based on the specific resource being discussed and evaluated.
112 Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

Irreversible and irretrievable commitments are discussed in Sections 4.19, and short-term use of

the environment versus long-term productivity is discussed in Section 4.20.

4.1 AIR QUALITY AND NOISE

4.1.1 Air Quality

4.1.1.1 Proposed Action

Air pollutant em issions would occur from construction of the m ine facilities and from selected

mine and reclam ation operations associated with the Proposed Action. Air em issions and air

pollutant im pacts are lim ited by state and federal regulations, standards, and im plementation

plans established under the Clean Air Act and are adm inistered within W yoming by

WDEQ/AQD. Chapter 6 of the W AQS&R requires all proposed air pollutant em ission sources,

including coal m ining operations, to undergo a perm itting review and, if necessary, to obtain a

construction permit prior to construction or operation of the source. Chapter 3 of the WAQS&R

specifies general em issions standards for new and existing sources, and Chapter 2 of the

WAQS&R addresses am bient air quality standards. Additional state and federal program s may

apply to a proposed source if certain em issions and other thresholds are m et or exceeded. One

such program is the PSD perm it program (als o adm inistered by W DEQ/AQD) that requires

major sources to perform additional analyses, including Best Available Control Technology and

Air Quality-Related Values analyses for federal Class I Areas. The Proposed Action, in

combination with existing Jim Bridger Mine operations, would be classified as a m inor source

and therefore would not be subject to the PSD permit program. The Proposed Action would be

subject to W DEQ/AQD construction and operating perm it requirements and would be required

to operate in compliance with emission standards and ambient air quality standards.

In order to assess potential im pacts of the Proposed Action, em issions have been estim ated

below.
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease 113

Construction Activities. Air pollutant em issions from construction of the Proposed Action

would be tem porary in nature and would result prim arily due to surface disturbance, travel on

unpaved roads, and diesel engine com bustion from m obile equipm ent. The prim ary air

pollutants emitted would be PM10, SO2, NOX, CO, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

New surface disturbance from construction activities associated with the Proposed Action would

total 28 acres: construction of overland conveyor (23 acres), powerline power pole installation

(2 acres), and mine access road (3 acres).

PM10 emissions from wind erosion of these disturbed areas are calculated using EPA' s AP-42

emission factor (EPA 1995) for industrial wind erosion and based on a full year of regional

meteorological data. PM 10 emissions are estimated to be approxim ately 1 ton per year from the

25-acre construction area for 1-2 years.

Construction traffic would travel to the m ine site on an existing paved road outside of the BCC

mine area (W yoming State Highway 377) and on chem ically treated existing access roads once

inside the BCC m ine area (approxim ately 5.3 m i in length). The construction workers would

make an estim ated 75 round-trips on this route per day for the duration of construction

operations. PM10 emissions from construction travel are estim ated at 0.3 tons per day (110 tons

per year) using EPA' s AP-42 emission factor for unpaved roads and a control efficiency of 50%

for watering. Emissions of NOX, SO2, CO, and VOCs would also occur from gasoline and diesel

combustion in passenger vehicles and diesel com bustion from larger trucks traveling unpaved

roads during construction of the Proposed Action.

Mine Operations. Upon commencement of mine operations, employees would travel to work via

Wyoming State Highway 377 and existing unpaved access roads (5.3 m i). Em ployees would

make approxim ately 250 round-trips on this route per day. PM 10 em issions from em ployee

travel to and from the mine are estimated to be 0.41 tons per day (150 tons per year) calculated

using EPA' s AP-42 em ission factor for unpaved roads and a control efficiency of 80% for

chemical dust suppression. PM 10, NOX, SO2, CO, and VOC em issions would also occur from
114 Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

other gasoline and diesel com bustion engines in vehicles traveling to and from the Project Area.

These m obile source em issions are not subject to state or federal air quality perm itting

requirements and are generally regulated under WAQS&R Chapter 13, Mobile Sources.

Various diesel- and gasoline-powered equipm ent would operate at the proposed underground

mine. Air pollutant em issions associated with these m obile sources include PM 10, NOX, SO2,

CO, and VOCs from diesel com bustion in underground m ining equipm ent. Am ounts of

emissions would depend on fleet com position, m aintenance, and operating conditions. In the

mine itself, m uch of the equipm ent would be operated by electricity. Vehicles operated

underground would be diesel-powered. Fugitive dust em issions would be limited by the natural

moisture content of the underground traveled surface, supplem ented by water application as

necessary. The underground mine would intake and exhaust air from the mine portal.

Under the Proposed Action, a m aximum of 5.5 m illion tons per year of coal would be loaded to

an overland conveyor that originates from the underground mine. The overland conveyor would

be 17,000 ft in length and would transport coal to the existing Truck Dump Station #2 for further

transport to the Jim Bridger Power Plant via the existing overland conveyor system . The coal

would be sprayed with water or a dust suppressant to reduce potential dust em issions. No

additional air em issions, beyond those currently perm itted, would occur from the existing

overland conveyor due to the Proposed Action. The new overland conveyor system would be

enclosed at both the transfer points and along the entire length of the conveyor. W DEQ/AQD

permits typically do not quantify em issions from covered and controlled coal conveyor

emissions and instead limit visible emissions from coal transfer operations to a 20% opacity limit

in accordance with PM 10 emission limits set forth in Chapter 3 of the W AQS&R (WDEQ/AQD

2000b). In other words, technically there would be no em issions from the overland conveyor

system.

As discussed previously, fugitive dust from vehicle travel on unpaved roads and disturbed areas

would be controlled by treatm ent with water and chem ical dust suppressants on a regular

schedule, as required by W AQS&R Section 3 (W DEQ/AQD 2000). Fugitive dust control and
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease 115

emission lim its would be outlined in the W DEQ/AQD construction perm it required for the

Proposed Action prior to construction and com mencement of operations. These control

requirements and lim its would becom e part of the facility' s operating perm it, supplemented by

reporting requirements to demonstrate that compliance with the requirements is maintained.

Mobile fuel trucks and the stationary fuel tank would be used to fuel diesel-powered equipm ent

during operations. Equipm ent fueling would result in VOC and HAP em issions from

volatilization of diesel fuel. Em issions from di esel storage and transfer are typically below

permitting and reporting thresholds at coal m ines, in part due to the inherent low volatility of

diesel fuel.

Reclamation. The prim ary source of em issions during reclam ation and revegetation operations

would be associated with the repair of surface cracks due to subsidence. For the purpose of this

EA, it is estimated that 1% of subsidence area within the TMRT area, or 59 acres, would require

surface-disturbing activities for reclam ation. PM 10 emissions for 59 acres of disturbed topsoil

over an estim ated 20-year period (2.95 acres per year) of operation were estim ated to be

approximately 1.1 tons per year, using EPA' s AP-42 em ission factor for heavy construction

operations (EPA 1995). As surface m ining operations and areas are reclaim ed and revegetated,

PM10 emissions would be expected to decrease.

Ambient Impacts. No exceedances of am bient air quality standards or Class II PSD Increm ents

are expected to occur as a result of the P roposed Action. The Proposed Action, operating in

conjunction with existing em issions sources at the Bridger Mine, would be required to com ply

with NAAQS, W AAQS, and Class II PSD Increm ents for all regulated air pollutants em itted.

The prim ary air pollutant em itted in th is coal m ining operation would be PM 10. Com pliance

with the established 24-hour and annual average PM 10 standards and increments shown in Table

3.2 would be demonstrated based on dispersion m odeling performed as part of the W DEQ/AQD

permit process.

Ambient PM10 data collected near the m ine would also serve as a dem onstration of com pliance

with these am bient standards. The m ine currently conducts am bient PM 10 m onitoring that
116 Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

measures 24-hour PM 10 concentrations in the vicinity of the m ine. This am bient m onitoring

program would be continued under the Proposed Action. Additional m onitors also collect

ambient PM10 concentrations at the nearby Jim Bridger Power Plant and Leucite Hills Mine.

Based on the discussion presented above, no violations of applicable federal or state air quality

regulations would occur.

4.1.1.2 No Action Alternative

Under the No Action Alternative, the coal lease sale would not occur, no underground m ining

operations would be conducted within the TMRT, there would be no additional developm ent in

the proposed project area, and impacts to air quality resources would remain at existing levels.

4.1.1.3 Residual Impacts

Under the Proposed Action, approximately 111 tons per year of PM10 would be generated during

construction operations and approxim ately 151.1 tons per year of PM 10 would generated during

mining and reclamation operations. As a result, there would be som e short-term deterioration to

air quality in the vicinity of the proposed m ine portal and surface support facility. However,

implementation of appropriate air quality control methods (e.g., watering and chemical treatment

of access, watering or chem ical treatm ent of coal on the overland conveyor, etc.) would

minimize and m itigate impacts to air quality resources. In addition, im pacts would be within

state-permitted air quality levels, would be localized and temporary, and would be quickly

dispersed by the wind.

4.1.1.4 Cumulative Impacts

The Continental Divide/Greater W amsutter II (CD/GWII) EIS, completed in 1998, and the DFP

draft EIS, com pleted in April 2003, analyzed cu mulative impacts at Class I and Class II areas

from em issions sources in southwest W yoming. The analyses used a "reasonable but
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease 117

conservative" approach that included the m odeling of regional sources at perm itted em ission

rates. The regional em issions inventory and CALPUFF m odeling analysis included industrial

development prior to June 30, 1995, by adding background am bient monitoring data collected

for that period to m odeled concentrations. Industrial developm ent after 1995 was explicitly

modeled in the analysis for perm itted sources in southwest W yoming, northwest Colorado, and

northeast Utah. Em issions from operation of th e Jim Bridger Mine, as it existed prior to 1995,

are assum ed to be included in the m onitored background value for that analysis. A perm it

modification approved by WDEQ/AQD in 2001 allowed increased PM10 emissions from the Jim

Bridger Mine of 157.7 tons per year. This change represents 4% of the total perm itted PM10

emissions at the m ine. Em issions from the three perm itted em issions sources in the Bridger

cumulative study area, the Jim Bridger Power Plant, the Jim Bridger Mine, and the Leucite Hills

Mine were also included in the CD/GW II cum ulative m odeling study as part of the am bient

background collected in 1995.

The CD/GWII and DFP EIS analyses predicted the im pacts on am bient concentrations in PSD

Class I and Class II areas, the im pacts of acid deposition of sensitive lakes, and the im pacts to

regional visibility. The study found no exceedances of PSD Class I increments in federal Class I

areas and no exceedances of PSD Class II increm ents in Class II areas located between those

project areas and distant Class I areas. Potential impacts to sensitive lakes were found to be well

below applicable thresholds. One of m odeled 24-hour periods at Rawah W ilderness Area PSD

Class I Area was found to exhibit a "just-noticeable change" in visibility in the CD/GW II EIS

study area, and no days were found to exhibit visibility degradation did not surpass the threshold

for in the DFP EIS study area.

In addition, construction-related air quality em issions associated with the expansion of the flue

gas de-sulfurization pond is expected to be completed by the sum mer of 2003 and would result

in no significant short- or long-term air quality impacts to the CIAA (BLM 2002a).

Therefore, cumulative impacts to air quality res ources would not be im portant because there are

no past, present, or reasonable foreseeable future actions that, when com bined with the Proposed
118 Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

Action, would result in im pacts beyond those that already exist or have already been identified

and discussed in Chapter 4.0 of this EA.

4.1.2 Noise

4.1.2.1 Proposed Action

There are no federal or state regulations governi ng environmental noise levels related to m ining

or industrial activities. However, MSHA rules regarding noise in the workplace would protect

construction workers and m iners, and BCC would com ply with all applicable noise control,

mitigation, and m onitoring requirements. All m achines utilized for the Proposed Action would

be equipped with manufacturer's recommended mufflers or other noise control devices.

Under the Proposed Action, hum an-related noise would increase above existing background

levels; however, a majority of the mining activities would occur between 200 and 1,000 ft below

the ground level and therefore would not be audible to the casual observer located within the

TMRT. The highest level of noise associated with the Proposed Action would likely occur at or

near the mine portal (with the blowing fan system ) and surface support facility at Ram p 14. In

addition, ongoing surface mining and reclamation operation, and the accompanying noise, would

continue at the Jim Bridger Mine. As a result, m ost of the noise from the Proposed Action

would be located below the existing m ine highwall, would likely be less than surface m ining

operations, and would not be distinguishable from the existing level of background noise in the

area. In addition, there are no residences, schools, or noise-sensitive hum an receptors within the

TMRT or the CIAA. The nearest residence to th e TMRT would be m ore than 8 m i west in the

town of Superior. It is unlikely that underground m ining operations would be audible or would

adversely affect residents in Superior.

Noise affects on local wildlife populations are addressed separately in the wildlife portion

(Section 4.18) of this EA.
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease 119

4.1.2.2 No Action Alternative

Under the No Action Alternative, the coal lease sale would not occur, no underground m ining

operations would be conducted within the TMRT, there would be no additional developm ent in

the proposed project area, and impacts to noise levels would remain at existing levels.

4.1.2.3 Residual Impacts

As a result of the Proposed Action, there woul d be increased noise underground within the

TMRT. The highest noise levels would generally be limited to activity near the m ine portal and

surface support facilities; however, noise levels would be com parable to or less than the existing

noise levels associated with the existing surf ace mine. BCC would com ply with all applicable

noise control, m itigation, and m onitoring requirem ents as specified by MSHA. All m achines

utilized for the Proposed Action would be equipped with m anufacturer's recommended mufflers

or other noise-control devices Noise levels would be short-term and would generally be

dispersed by the wind, and noise levels would also return to background levels when m ining

operations are not being conducted.

4.1.2.4 Cumulative Impacts

Existing land uses within the CIAA contribute to noise levels, but wind is generally the prim ary

noise source. Mining within the TMRT would not greatly increase the num ber of

noise-producing facilities within the CIAA. Noise from underground coal m ining operations,

associated surface support facilities, and road traffic would generally be masked by the wind and

noise from the existing surface m ining operations at BCC at short distances, so cum ulative

overlap of noise impacts would not be likely.

In addition, construction-related noise associated with the expansion of the flue gas

de-sulfurization pond is expected to be com pleted by the sum mer of 2003 and would result in

minimal short- or long-term noise impacts to the CIAA.
120 Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

Recreational users and grazing lessees within th e CIAA would likely not be able to identify

noise generated from the Proposed Action. Existing noise sources within the CIAA (e.g., the Jim

Bridger Mine) would generally contribute more noise than the Proposed Action.

Therefore, cumulative impacts due to noise would not be im portant because there are no past,

present, or reasonable foreseeable future actions that, when com bined with the Proposed Action,

would result in im pacts beyond those that alrea dy exist or have already been identified and

discussed in Chapter 4.0 of this EA.

4.2 CULTURAL RESOURCES

4.2.1 Proposed Action

Under the Proposed Action, 59 acres within the TMRT may be physically disturbed as a result of

the repair of surface cracks due to subsidence. An additional 28 acres located away from the

TMRT area would be disturbed due to the c onstruction of associated support facilities (e.g.,

overland conveyor system , powerline, access road). In order to protect and m itigate potential

impacts to NRHP-eligible sites (including the Point of Rocks to South Pass wagon road) within

the TMRT area, BCC would enter into a cultural resource program matic agreement with BLM,

OSM, WDEQ/LQD, and W yoming State Historic Preservation Office. This agreem ent would

identify specific survey, testing, protection, and mitigation m easures that would be im plemented

by BCC to address and protect NRHP-eligible historic and prehistoric sites within the TMRT

area. The program matic agreement would dem onstrate compliance with all applicable cultural

resource laws and regulations.

Under the Proposed Action, BLM Class III surveys would be conducted on those areas that are

located outside of the TMRT, have not been previously surveyed, and would be physically

disturbed by the construction activities. All historic and prehistoric resources that are potentially

eligible for the NHRP that could be adversely affected by the Proposed Action would be

protected from disturbance or would be appropriately m itigated if the site could not be avoided.
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease 121

Where necessary and appropriate, site-specific m itigation m easures would be developed and

implemented in accordance with the current cultural resource protection plan contained in BCC's

approved WDEQ/LQD permit. The site-specific m itigation measures would also be developed

and implemented with the concurrence of the BLM, OSM, WDEQ/LDQ, and the Wyoming State

Historic Preservation Office.

The Proposed Action, am ong other things, includes a com mitment that if any cultural resources

are discovered during construction or reclam ation operations, work in the area of the discovery

would be halted and the appropriate regulatory agency would be notified and appropriate

treatment plans im plemented. BCC em ployees would also be instructed that they would be

working on both private and public land and not to search for, scavenge, or rem ove any cultural

resources found while working on the project.

Therefore, docum ented and undocum ented cultural resources would be protected during

construction, operations, and maintenance operations, and no unm itigated cultural resources that

are eligible for listing on the NRHP would be impacted by the Proposed Action.

4.2.2 No Action Alternative

Under the No Action Alternative, the coal lease sale would not occur, no underground m ining

operations would be conducted within the TMRT, there would be no additional developm ent in

the proposed project area (beyond the existing m ining and other industrial development), and no

additional impacts to cultural resources would occur.

4.2.3 Residual Impacts

The Proposed Action would not result in any residual im pacts to identified cultural resource.

However, some loss of unidentified cultural resources sites or artifacts may occur. However, if it

becomes necessary to disturb an area within the TMRT to rem ediate subsidence-related
122 Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

reclamation problems and previously unidentified cultural resources are located, activity in the

area would be halted, the proper regulatory authority would be contacted, and appropriate

treatment of the resource undertaken to avoid impacts to NRHP-eligible cultural resource sites.

4.2.4 Cumulative Impacts

With the presence of the Jim Bridger and Leucite Hills Mines, a large area within the CIAA has

been inventoried for cultural resources, and historic and prehistoric sites have been identified.

Many of the sites have been determ ined to be eligible for the NRHP. Eligible sites within the

mine properties that would be disturbed have been treated, and other eligible sites would be

avoided. Em ployees at Jim Bridger and Leucite H ills Mines are instructed that they are not to

disturb or vandalize any cultural resource site. However, property outside of the m ines'

boundaries do not have any such protection; they m ay be accessed and potentially vandalized by

the general public.

Based on the identified reasonably foreseeable future actions, there would be no proposed

disturbance within the CIAA to cultural resources except for that associated with the Proposed

Action.

Therefore, cumulative impacts to cultural resources would not be im portant because there are no

past, present, or reasonably foreseeable future action that, when com bined with the Proposed

Action, would result in im pacts beyond those that already exist or have already been identified

and discussed in Chapter 4.0 of this EA.

4.3 GEOLOGY AND GEOLOGIC HAZARDS

4.3.1 Proposed Action

The primary impact of the Proposed Action on geology would be the rem oval of approximately

44 m illion tons of in-place federal coal reserves included in the total of approxim ately
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease 123

121.5 million tons of in-place federal, private, and state coal reserves from the TMRT area. A

more detailed discussion of impacts to mineral resources is presented in Section 4.6 of this EA.

Under the Proposed Action, there would be a slight lowering (6.0 to 9.5 ft) of elevation within a

majority of the TMRT. Based on the subsidence discussion presented in Chapter 2 of the EA

(refer to Section 2.1.5.8), BCC estim ates that the Proposed Action m ay result in the perm anent

lowering of surface elevation within the TMRT of between approxim ately 6.0 and 9.5 ft.

Subsidence would not occur over the m ain and submain entries because they would be designed

to last beyond the life of the project. Theref ore, m aterial overlying the m ains would rem ain

intact at the original elevation as the rem aining mined longwall panel areas settle. In an area

with a flat topographic surface, trough subsidence would result in a series of ridges and basin.

However, since the prem ining topographic surf ace within the TMRT is naturally undulating,

there would likely be no identifiable surface expression of any ridges or basins within the TMRT

area. After mining operations have been completed in an area, the surface would gradually settle

over the longwall coal panel areas during an approximate 2-year period.

Studies at sim ilar longwall underground coal m ines in Utah indicate that the effects of

subsidence typically do not extend more than 50 ft beyond the limits of the longwall panels (U.S.

Department of Energy 1995). Therefore, subsidence would not be expected m uch past the

underground limits of the longwall panels.

As part of the W DEQ/LQD m ine perm it application required for the Proposed Action, BCC

would be responsible for developing a subsidence plan that would include a subsidence

monitoring and m itigation plan. Subsidence from the underground m ine would have the

following effects and would be mitigated as follows.

The am ount of subsidence that reaches the surf ace depends on such factors as tim e, depth of

mining, thickness of the coalbed extracted, thickness and strength of the overlying rock, and any

previous mining of overlying coalbeds (U.S. Department of Energy 1995). BCC anticipates that

85% of the m ined-out coal area m ay eventually be evident at the surface by a slight lowering
124 Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

(6.0-9.5 ft) of elevation. Based on the corporate m ining experience from other underground

operations (i.e., Deer Creek Mine and Trail Mountain Mine in Utah) being conducted by BCC

(PacifiCorp), BCC expects that it would take approxim ately 3-4 weeks for subsidence caused by

the longwall m ining of the TMRT to initially reach the surface. In addition, BCC expects

subsidence activities to be substantially com plete within 2 years of the com pletion of m ining

operations at any particular location.

Material overlying the m ains would generally rem ain intact at the original elevation, while the

remaining mined longwall panel areas would settle. The surface would gradually settle over the

longwall coal panel area following the com pletion of mining operations. While the area located

above the longwall coal panels would subsid e, the settling would cause little or no surface

disturbance (e.g., surface cracks, channel displacement, etc.) that would require corrective action

(i.e., reclamation and revegetation) by BCC. This assessm ent is based on other longwall m ining

operations conducted in W yoming (personal com munication, April 19, 2002, with Bill Hogg,

WDEQ/LQD; April 23, 2002, with Am y Boil, W DEQ/LQD; and April 17, 2002, with Jeff

Clawson, BLM Mine Engineer). Therefore, for the purpose of this EA, it will be assum ed at 1%

(or 59 acres) of the surface area within the TMRT would be im pacted by subsidence over the

LOM to a point that would require corrective action (i.e., repair and revegetation of surface

cracks). The 1% value is likely m uch higher than would likely occur but is a reasonable

assumption for this analysis.

If the project area were com pletely flat, th e final topographic surface would be com posed of

ridges and basins. However, com bined with the natural undulations of the topographic surface,

the subsidence within the TMRT would generally not be noticeable to the causal observer

(personal communication, April 19, 2002, with Bill Hogg, W DEQ/LQD; April 23, 2002, with

Amy Boil, WDEQ/LQD; and April 17, 2002, with Jeff Clawson, BLM Mine Engineer).

Local surface water drainage patterns within th e TMRT would be disrupted by the basins and

ridges created by subsidence. Therefore, besides the 59 acres of estimated subsidence that would

need to be reclaim ed, BCC would be responsible for repairing and revegetating any drainage
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease 125

channel affected by subsidence-related disturbance within the TMRT in accordance with

WDEQ/LQD rules and regulations.

There m ay be slightly increased soil erosion from ridges into basins. Soil loss would occur

primarily due to wind and water erosion. W ind and water erosion would eventually reduce the

relief between ridges and basins. Soils would be locally affected if cracks develop at the surface.

BCC would be responsible for repairing and revegetation any area affected by subsidence-related

disturbance within the TMRT in accordance with WDEQ/LQD rules and regulations.

Vegetation would not be directly disturbed unless subsidence cracks form; however, BCC would

repair and revegetate any area affected by subsidence-related disturbances within the TMRT in

accordance with W DEQ/LQD rules and regulations. Indirect im pacts would occur because the

basin and ridge topography would alter local soil m oisture regimes, which may eventually affect

species distribution within the TMRT. The basin and ridge topography m ay also alter snow

distribution and thus m oisture accum ulation patterns, which m ay eventually cause gradual

permanent changes to vegetation communities.

Some wildlife would be affected due to changes in vegetation, but the changes would be lim ited

to the affected areas within TMRT and thus would not likely cause any noticeable im pacts to

wildlife populations. The low ridges m ay alter sm all-scale movement patterns of wildlife but

would not affect regional patterns.

There is a potential for wildlife, livestock, and individuals walking or moving through the area to

trip over or becom e injured in surface cracks; however, BCC would m onitor and prom ptly

repair and reclaim this type of surface disturbance.

Earthquake and landslide potential in the TMRT and CIAA is relatively low, so im pacts from

earthquakes and landslides would be unlikely.
126 Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

4.3.2 No Action Alternative

Under the No Action Alternative, the coal lease sale would not occur, no underground m ining

operations would be conducted within the TMRT, there would be no additional developm ent in

the proposed project area (beyond the existing m ining and other industrial developm ent), and

there would be limited impacts to geology and geologic hazards.

4.3.3 Residual Impacts

Residual impacts to geology and geologic hazards would be sim ilar to those discussed under the

Proposed Action and will not be repeated here. The major impact would be the lowering of the

topography due to subsidence within the TMRT area.

4.3.4 Cumulative Impacts

Surface and underground coal mining operations would be the only industrial activity that would

occur within the CIAA and, cum ulatively, approximately 5 to 6 m illion tons of coal per year

would be mined and utilized at the Jim Bridger Power Plant. This am ount of coal would not be

expected to change as a result of the Proposed Action, and leasing of coal within the TMRT

would continue the long-term trend within the CIAA of developm ent of public- and

private-sector coal reserves. Surface geology within the existing surface m ine area would

change slightly due to the surface m ining methods being em ployed; however, surface geology

within the TMRT would rem ain essentially unaltered, with the topography lowered by

approximately 6.0 to 9.5 ft due to anticipated subsidence. This risk of geologic hazards (e.g.,

earthquakes, landslides, floodplains, and floods) occurring within the CIAA would rem ain

unaltered as a result of the Proposed Action.

Therefore, cumulative impacts to geology and geologic hazards would not be im portant because

there are no past, present, or reasonable foreseeable future actions that, when com bined with the
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease 127

Proposed Action, would result in im pacts beyond those that already exist or have already been

identified and discussed in Chapter 4.0 of this EA.

4.4 HEALTH AND SAFETY (TRANSPORTATION)

4.4.1 Proposed Action

Under the Proposed Action, approxim ately 10-75 tem porary construction workers would be

employed from approximately mid-2005 through the end of 2007, and an additional 50 m iners

may eventually be em ployed at the Jim Bridger Mine. Both tem porary and full-time employees

would travel to the m ine site either in indivi dual vehicles, vans, or buses. Based on the average

daily trips num bers from the W yoming Departm ent of Transportation, an average of 12,500

vehicles per 24-hour period utilize Interstate 80 between Superior and Point of Rocks and 1,200

vehicles per 24-hour period utilize W yoming State Highway 377 north of Point of Rocks

(Wyoming Departm ent of Transportation 2001). If it is assum ed that the num ber of vehicles

would increase on a one-person to one-vehicle basis, the m aximum num ber of vehicles on

Interstate 80 would increase from an average of 12,500 to 12,650 over a 24-hour period (two

one-way trips per 24-hour period), and the num ber of vehicles on W yoming State Highway 377

would increase from an average 1,200 to 1,350 per 24-hour period. As a result, the num ber of

individual vehicles, vans, and buses would not greatly increase from the existing num bers of

vehicles that currently utilize Interstate 80 or Wyoming State Highway 377. It is also follows

that there would not be a large increase in the number of traffic accidents on both roads.

In addition, construction and new miners would travel on access roads controlled and maintained

by BCC, and drivers would be required to com ply with posted speed lim its. The public would

not have access to the working portions of the m ine and these access roads. The existing m ine

access roads would be m aintained according to appropriate transportation standards in order to

handle the estimated 180 to 250 miners that would eventually work at and travel to the proposed

underground mine. The actual number of vehicles that would utilize these roads at any one tim e

cannot be accurately estimated but would be based on the average number of workers per vehicle
128 Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

and the number of employees that would be working in any specific work shift (the m ine would

generally be operated 24 hours per day 7 days per week).

Due to the rem ote location of the project area, there are a series of im proved and unim proved

(dirt or two-track) roads that access the surface of the TMRT area. Underground m ining

operations would be conducted in a m anner intended to prevent and m inimize endangerment to

the public safety and hum an and animal life. The TMRT area would continue to be utilized for

livestock grazing; therefore, public access to the TMRT and the m ine highwall area cannot be

completely restricted or elim inated. However (in accordance with the Wyoming Environmental

Quality Act and OSM regulations), m ine entrance signs would be posted on all m ajor roads

leading on to the TMRT area, and m ine em ployees would be instructed to watch for

unauthorized personnel and to notify m ine management if unauthorized personnel are observed

within the TMRT.

Since the TMRT would be incorporated into an existing W DEQ/LQD permit area, speed lim its

would be established for the TMRT area to prom ote safe conditions for the public and to

decrease potential encounters with grazing animals and wildlife. Currently, speed within the Jim

Bridger Mine varies but is generally lim ited to 35 mi per hour due to the conditions in the area.

All employees would be advised of the posted speed limits.

4.4.2 No Action Alternative

Under the No Action Alternative, the coal lease sale would not occur, no m ining would be

conducted, there would be no additional developm ent in the proposed project area (beyond the

existing m ining and other industrial developm ent), and im pacts to health and safety

(transportation) issues would remain at their current levels.
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease 129

4.4.3 Residual Impacts

There would be a lim ited increase in the volum e of traffic and in the rate of traffic accidents on

Interstate 80, W yoming State Highway 377, and County Road 15 due to the Proposed Action.

Properly designed and maintained roads, increased signage on these roads, proper licensing, and

safety awareness training for em ployees by the BCC would m itigate and minimize the increased

risk to the public and mine employees.

4.4.4 Cumulative Impacts

There would be an increase in the traffic on some public roads in the immediate project area (i.e.,

Interstate 80, W yoming State Highway 377, and County Road 15) due to the Proposed Action.

However, the estimated increase in traffic would not likely create any major traffic congestion or

accident problems. Properly designed and m aintained roads, increased signage on both roads,

proper licensing, and safety awareness training for em ployees by the BCC would m itigate and

minimize the increased risk to the public and the m ine em ployees. Therefore, cum ulative

impacts to health and safety (i.e., transportation) would not be im portant because there are no

past, present, or reasonably foreseeable future actions that, when com bined with the Proposed

Action, would result in im pacts beyond those that already exist or have already been identified

and discussed in Chapter 4.0 of this EA.

4.5 LAND RESOURCES AND USE

4.5.1 Proposed Action

Under the Proposed Action, landownership and m ineral ownership would not change. Other

current land uses within the TMRT (i.e., livestock grazing, wildlife habitat, and dispersed

recreation) would continue at their current rates, unaltered and unaffected by the Proposed

Action. However, current land uses in the approxim ate 28 acres that would be disturbed by the

proposed construction of the m ine facilities (e .g., overland conveyor, powerline, etc.) would be
130 Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

temporarily unavailable for livestock grazing, wildlife habitat, and/or recreational use. However,

once m ining operations have been com pleted, facilities rem oved, and the disturbed area

reclaimed, previous land uses would be available.

4.5.2 No Action Alternative

Under the No Action Alternative, the coal lease sale would not occur, no underground m ining

operations would be conducted within the TMRT, there would be no additional developm ent in

the proposed project area (beyond the existing m ining and other industrial developm ent), and

there would be no impacts to land resources or use.

4.5.3 Residual Impacts

There would be lim ited residual im pacts to la nd resources or use due to the Proposed Action

within the TMRT; however, there would be a te mporary hiatus in non-m ining-related land use

within the approxim ately 28 acres that would disturbed for the construction of m ine support

facilities. The Proposed Action would result in lim ited short-term impact to range vegetation

and the temporary displacement of livestock grazing, wildlife habitat, and recreational use from

the ROW areas. However, once m ining and reclamation operations are com pleted, reclamation

efforts would re-establish the vegetative habitat and would m itigate any long-term im pacts to

livestock grazing, wildlife habitat, and recreational use.

4.5.4 Cumulative Impacts

Based on the disturbance calculations presented in Chapter 3, approxim ately 6,308 acres are

currently disturbed within the CIAA. This represents 8.07% of the total area within the CIAA.

reasonably foreseeable future actions (including the Proposed Action) within the CIAA would

result in an additional 109 acres of disturbance (6,417 acres of total disturbance due to existing

activities, the Proposed Action, and reasonably foreseeable future actions). This represents
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease 131

0.14% of the total area within the CIAA (78,200 acres) or 8.21% based on the total disturbance

due to existing activities and reasonably foreseeable future actions.

Once reclam ation operations are com plete on existing surface-m ined lands, they would

eventually be capable of supporting predisturbance uses. Disturbance from the Jim Bridger

Power Plant ponds, roads, powerlines, and pipelines are part of the long-term econom ic

development within the CIAA. None of the cu rrent land uses within the CIAA lim its the area's

ability to support grazing, wildlife habitat, and recreation.

Therefore, cumulative impacts to land resources and use would not be im portant because there

are no past, present, or reasonably foreseeable future actions that, when com bined with the

Proposed Action, would result in im pacts beyond those that already exist or have already been

identified and discussed in Chapter 4.0 of this EA.

4.6 MINERALS (SOLID AND FLUID)

4.6.1 Proposed Action

The primary purpose of the Proposed Action would be the m ining and removal of approximately

44 millions tons of in-place federal coal reserv es and a total of approximately 121.5 million tons

of in-place federal, private, and state coal reserv es from the entire TMRT area. All of the m ined

coal would be utilized at the nearby Jim Bridger Power Plant. Once rem oved, coal from the

D-41 coal seam within the TMRT would no longer be available.

There are no known producing oil, gas, or coalbed m ethane wells or fields within the TMRT or

the CIAA. Therefore, the Proposed Action would have no im pacts on existing oil, gas or

coalbed m ethane wells within the TMRT or the CIAA. The BLM would expect lessees to

resolve any developm ent conflicts if existing oil or gas leases within the TMRT were to be

developed while mining operations are being conducted and development conflicts arise.
132 Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

As adm inistrators of public land, including som e of those within the TMRT, the BLM has

prepared Instruction Mem orandum No. 2000-081 that indicates BLM would work to achieve

three principal goals in resolving mineral development conflicts. The three goals are:

• to protect the rights of each lessee under the terms of it lease, the MLA and the

implementing regulations, including those concerning conservation of natural

resources;

• to optimize the recovery of multiple resources; and

• to optim ize the return to the public while protecting public safety and the

environment and minimizing impacts on local communities.

The BLM prefers that these goals be achieved through agreem ent among the lessees, but BLM

would use it authority to m anage m ineral developm ent on public lands when it is necessary.

Therefore, the Proposed Action would have few, if any, im pacts on existing oil or gas leases

within the TMRT.

In addition, since there are no producing oil or gas wells and no proven oil or gas reserves within

the TMRT area and the potential for near-term oil and gas developm ent within the TMRT is

moderate, few, if any, future leases would likely be applied for in the TMRT area.

Correspondingly, there would be no im pacts on oil or gas resources due to the Proposed Action.

Any future oil and gas leases that m ight be issued would be subject to BLM’s coincidental

development stipulations.

Coalbed m ethane testing conducted by BCC within the TMRT area indicates that there is no

evidence of economic reserves of coalbed m ethane in any of the four holes that were drilled by

BCC (BLM 2003b; PacifiCorp 2003). Given the lack of existing coalbed m ethane development

within the TMRT and the lack of any proven reserves within the TMRT or even the CIAA, there

would be no loss of proven reserves of coalbed m ethane within the LBA area and no im pacts to

this resource.

In addition, there are no active locatable m ineral (e.g., precious metals, bentonite, etc.) mines or

economically recoverable deposits of locatable m inerals within the TMRT or the CIAA, and
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease 133

there are no claim s for locatable m inerals within the TMRT or CIAA (BLM 1996b). There are

also no construction aggregate quarries (a saleable m ineral) within the TMRT or the CIAA;

however, the BLM has identified several sand and gravel deposits along the western boundary of

the CIAA (BLM 1996b). Due to the lim ited size and remoteness of these deposits outside of the

TMRT area, it is unlikely that these deposits would be developed in the near-term and therefore

would be unaffected by the Proposed Action.

Exploration, including seism ic testing, for and developm ent of oil, gas, coalbed m ethane,

locatable minerals, and salable m inerals would continue to be perm itted by the BLM within the

TMRT in accordance with applicable regulations and as long as exploration activities would not

interfere with ongoing coal mine development and operations.

4.6.2 No Action Alternative

Under the No Action Alternative, the coal lease sale would not occur, no underground m ining

operations would be conducted within the TMRT, and there would be no additional development

in the TMRT area (beyond the existing mining and other industrial development). Other mineral

developments, including coal and/or oil and gas, may be proposed in the future.

4.6.3 Residual Impacts

There would be no residual im pacts to mineral resources; however, the removal of coal with the

D-41 coal seam within the TMRT, as described within the Proposed Action, would constitute an

unavoidable impact.
134 Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

4.6.4 Cumulative Impacts

Cumulative im pacts to m ineral resources would in clude large-scale rem oval of coal from the

TMRT. Access to oil, gas, and coalbed m ethane reserves m ay be tem porarily hindered due to

underground coal mine development, and the BLM would provide direction and clarification on

resolving mineral development conflicts in the unlikely event they arise. However, to date, there

have been no m ineral developm ent conflicts within the TMRT. Exploration for and

development of locatable and salable m inerals would continue to be perm itted by the BLM

within the TMRT in accordance with applicable regulations and as long as exploration would not

interfere with ongoing coal mine development and operations.

Therefore, cum ulative im pacts to solid and fluid m ineral resources would not be im portant

because there are no past, present, or reasonably foreseeable future actions that, when com bined

with the Proposed Action, would result in im pacts beyond those that already exist or have

already been identified and discussed in Chapter 4.0 of this EA.

4.7 NATIVE AMERICAN RELIGIOUS CONCERNS

4.7.1 Proposed Action

No sites of Native Am erican religious concern are known to occur within the TMRT; if such

sites or localities are identified at a later date, they would be taken into consideration by the

BLM and would be addressed in accordance with applicable rules, regulations, and policies.

4.7.2 No Action Alternative

Under the No Action Alternative, the coal lease sale would not occur, no underground m ining

operations would be conducted within the TMRT, there would be no additional developm ent in

the proposed project area (beyond the existing m ining and other industrial developm ent), and

there would be no impacts to Native American religious concerns.
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease 135

4.7.3 Residual Impacts

No residual im pacts to Native Am erican concerns are expected from im plementation of the

Proposed Action.

4.7.4 Cumulative Impacts

Cumulative im pacts to Native Am erican religious concerns would not be im portant because

there are no past, present, or reasonably foreseeable future actions that, when com bined with the

Proposed Action, would result in any impacts to Native American religious concerns.

4.8 RANGELAND AND LIVESTOCK GRAZING

4.8.1 Proposed Action

It is difficult to accurately predict if reclam ation operations would be necessary to repair surface

cracks due to subsidence or to estim ate how m any acres would be disturbed by reclam ation

operations. However, reclam ation operations associated with underground longwall m ining

operations typically disturbed only a lim ited num ber of acres within the entire m ining area

(personal com munication, March 15, 2001, with John W agner, W DEQ/LQD Cheyenne,

Wyoming). Under the Proposed Action, it is assum ed that only 59 acres (1%) within the TMRT

would be disturbed as a result of the repair of surface cracks due to subsidence. Livestock

grazing would continue to be perm itted within the TMRT and would continue uninterrupted by

underground m ining operations. Approxim ately 5 AUMs m ay potentially be tem porarily

displaced by reclam ation operations associated with the repair of the surface cracks due to

subsidence. This would account for less than 0.006% of the utilized AUMs within the Rock

Springs grazing allotm ent. This displacem ent would be short-term (i.e., less than 10-20 years

after reclam ation operations have been com pleted) and would be m itigated by tim ely

implementation of reclam ation operations. Reclam ation and revegetation operations would be

conducted in accordance with and approved by W DEQ/LQD. There would be no perm anent
136 Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

displacement of livestock as a result of th e Proposed Action. Noise from the underground

mining operation would be minimal, and noise from the mine portal and surface support facilities

would be similar to the existing noise being generated at the Jim Bridger Mine; therefore, there

would be no displacement of livestock from the project area due to increased noise.

In addition, approxim ately 28 acres of native rangeland would be disturbed during the

construction of the m ine facilities. This would potentially result in the tem porary displacement

of livestock grazing from the affected area. This would account for only approximately 3 AUMs

of the 90,000 AUMs (<0.003%) currently utilized within the Rock Springs grazing allotm ent.

Since m ost of these areas are located within the current Jim Bridger Mine, it is unlikely that

many of the permitted AUMs are regularly utilized.

Once stabilization and reclamation operations for subsidence repair and support facility rem oval

operations are com pleted, revegetation efforts would re-establish the vegetative habitat and

would mitigate any long-term impacts to range vegetation and livestock grazing. Other direct

impacts to livestock grazing would include an increased risk of accidents between livestock and

vehicles owned by BCC. Should such accidents occur, the party responsible for the accident

would be liable to provide appropriate compensation to the livestock owner.

4.8.2 No Action Alternative

Under the No Action Alternative, the coal lease sale would not occur, no underground m ining

operations would be conducted within the TMRT, there would be no additional developm ent in

the proposed project area (beyond the existing m ining and other industrial developm ent), and

impacts vegetation resources and livestock grazing operations would continue to occur at current

rates.
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease 137

4.8.3 Residual Impacts

The Proposed Action would result in the tem porary disturbance of an estim ated 59 acres within

the TMRT and 28 acres associated with the m ine support facilities and the tem porary

displacement of approxim ately 8 AUMs. However, once m ine operations are com pleted,

reclamation efforts would re-establish the vegetative habitat and would m itigate any long-term

impacts to vegetation and livestock grazing. It could take 10-20 years after reclam ation

operations have been com pleted for som e of the reclaim ed areas to have shrub conditions and

vegetation diversity comparable to predisturbance conditions.

4.8.4 Cumulative Impacts

Approximately 43,364 acres (or 2.03%) of the entire CIAA for livestock grazing is currently

disturbed. This includes approxim ately 11,256 acres of disturbance due to unim proved roads

(i.e., dirt and two-track roads), 10,736 acres due to m ajor industrial facilities, 9,246 acres due to

cities (i.e., Rock Springs, Green River, and Superior), 8,673 acres due to m inor industrial

facilities, 2,910 acres due to wells and associated facilities, and 543 acres due to Interstate 80,

state highways, and paved county roads. Total proposed disturbance due to the Proposed Action

would account for an additional 87 acres (0.004% of the total CIAA), and reasonably foreseeable

future actions would account for an additional 2,803 acres (0.13% of the total CIAA).

Approximately 2,225 acres of disturbance would be associated with wells and related facilities

and 578 acres would be associated with m inor industrial facilities. Total existing, Proposed

Action, and reasonably foreseeable future actions disturbance within the CIAA would be

approximately 46,253 acres (or 2.17% of the total CIAA).

Disturbance from the m ajor industrial facilitie s (e.g., Jim Bridger Power Plant, Jim Bridger

Mine, Leucite Hills Mine, Black Butte Mine) and wells and associated facilities are part of the

long-term econom ic developm ent within the CIAA and would not be available for livestock

grazing until the specific facility is rem oved and the land revegetated. In addition, disturbance

from cities and Interstate 80, state highways, paved county roads, and m ost dirt or two-track
138 Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

roads are also part of the econom ic infrastructure of southwest W yoming and would not be

removed in the foreseeable future. None of the current land uses within the CIAA appear to

limit the area's ability to support livestock grazing. In addition, only 50% of the available AUMs

in the CIAA are currently being utilized.

Therefore, cum ulative im pacts to rangeland and livestock grazing would not be im portant

because there are no past, present, or reasonable foreseeable future actions that, when com bined

with the Proposed Action, would result in im pacts beyond those that already exist or have

already been identified and discussed in Chapter 4.0 of this EA.

4.9 RECREATION

4.9.1 Proposed Action

Recreational activities (including activities such as big gam e hunting) within the TMRT would

be discouraged by BCC because of the potential safety hazard to the public due to ongoing

surface mining operations and the potential hazards to m ine workers that could be affected by

big game hunting. However, BCC would not be able to prohibit or restrict public access to the

TMRT area due to the lack of controlled access points and authorized ongoing activities such as

livestock grazing. As a result, BCC would not be able to prevent the public from entering the

TMRT area from the north, east, or west sides of the area. Access from the southern portion of

TMRT area would be restricted by the controlled entry points leading into the BCC m ine

facilities. However, in accordance with W DEQ/LQD regulations, signs would be posted on

main two-track roads leading into the TMRT area to inform the public that they are entering a

mine area and that authorized personnel are only allowed on the property.

Under the Proposed Action, recreation opportunities within the TMRT would be discouraged but

would not be restricted. Hunting and other dispersed recreational activities that currently occur

within the TMRT project area would likely continue and would not be altered or impacted by the

Proposed Action.
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease 139

The Continental Divide dissects the TMRT LBA area; however, no segm ents or routes of the

CDNST have been designated by the BLM along the southern branch around the Great Divide

hydrologic drainage basin. However, the BLM may designate an official route in this area in the

future (refer to Figure 3.6). If an official segment of the CDNST is developed in the TMRT area,

the BLM would have to secure legal access for th e public to cross private lands along the route

including those portions of the CDNST located within the TMRT LBA area.

Underground coal mining operations conducted under the Proposed Action would have no affect

on the public' s ability to travel along the Continental Divide. In addition, no new surface

facilities would be located within the TMRT LBA area. W ith longwall m ining operations

specified under the Proposed Action, trough-type subsidence would occur above the area where

the coal has been m ined or rem oved (refer to Figure 2.11). Trough-type subsidence would not

pose a safety concern to persons travelling along the Continental Divide. Subsidence activities

would occur gradually and would not be observed or perceived by the public.

Any new route or segm ent of the CDNST that would follow the Continental Divide within the

TMRT LBA would only be approxim ately 0.5 to 1.0 m i away from the location of the proposed

surface support facilities for underground m ining operation and the active highwall m ining area

of the existing surface coal m ining operations at the Jim Bridger Mine. Persons travelling on

any proposed segment of the CDNST that follows the Continental Divide within the TMRT LBA

may become endangered if they were to leave the trail and go sightseeing to the highwall area to

view m ining or reclam ation operations. Highwall areas can be dangerous to the public for

numerous reasons including the presence of unstable, loose, and/or sloughing m aterials. In

accordance with MSHA regulations (30 CFR Part 77.1006), only authorized personnel are

allowed access to highwall areas.

Therefore, regardless of whether the Proposed Action is approved or not or if the current

applicant is the successful bidder for the fede ral coal reserves, BCC would likely request that

BLM temporarily locate any proposed route or segm ent of the CDNST several m iles away from

the existing surface m ining operations, including the TMRT LBA area. The tem porary
140 Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

relocation of the route or segm ent of the CDNST located near the TMRT LBA area or the

existing surface coal m ining operations away from the Continental Divide would m inimize the

physical dangers to the public travelling on the trail. In addition, the temporary relocation would

also m inimize visual intrusion that the su rface m ining operations would have on the trail

viewshed and the accompanying trail experience. The temporary trail relocation would conform

with typical BLM siting criteria for the CDNST. The trail segm ent or route m ay eventually be

relocated back to the Continental Divide afte r all m ining and reclam ation operations have been

completed at the Jim Bridger Mine.

4.9.2 No Action Alternative

Under the No Action Alternative, the coal lease sale would not occur, no underground m ining

operations would be conducted within the TMRT, there would be no additional developm ent in

the proposed project area (beyond the existing m ining and other industrial developm ent), and

recreational opportunities within the TMRT project area would continue at current rates.

As discussed above, any new route or segm ent of the CDNST that would follow the Continental

Divide would only be approximately 0.5 to 1.0 mi away from the active highwall mining area of

the existing surface coal m ining operations at th e Jim Bridger Mine. Persons travelling on any

proposed segment of the CDNST that follows the Continental Divide near the active m ine area

may become endangered if they were to leave the trail and go sightseeing to the highwall area to

view m ining or reclam ation operations. Highwall areas can be dangerous to the public for

numerous reasons including the presence of unstable, loose, and/or sloughing m aterials. In

accordance with MSHA regulations (30 CFR Part 77.1006), only authorized personnel are

allowed access to highwall areas.

Therefore, even if the Proposed Action is not approved, BCC would likely request that BLM

temporarily locate any proposed route or segm ent of the CDNST several m iles away from the

existing surface m ining operations. The tem porary relocation of the route or segm ent of the

CDNST located near the existing surface coal m ining operations away from the Continental
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease 141

Divide would minimize the physical dangers to the public travelling on the trail. In addition, the

temporary relocation would also m inimize visual intrusion that the surface m ining operations

would have on the trail viewshed and the accom panying trail experience. The tem porary trail

relocation would conform with typical BLM siting criteria for the CDNST. The trail segm ent or

route m ay eventually be relocated back to the Continental Divide after all m ining and

reclamation operations have been completed at the Jim Bridger Mine.

4.9.3 Residual Impacts

There are no developed recreational facilities, w ilderness areas, etc., in the TMRT project area,

and the majority of the land is seldom used by the public except for lim ited dispersed recreation

(e.g., hunting). Therefore, no residual im pacts to recreational opportunities would occur as a

result of the Proposed Action.

4.9.4 Cumulative Impacts

There are no developed recreational areas, wilderness areas, etc., in the vicinity of the TMRT,

and the m ajority of the land is seldom used by the public for recreation except for hunting and

other dispersed recreational activities. Surface disturbances in the vicinity of the TMRT area

include the Jim Bridger Mine, Leucite Hills Mine, Jim Bridger Power Plant, several county and

numerous two-track roads, wells and associated facilities, powerlines, and pipelines.

Disturbance from these activities are part of the ongoing econom ic developm ent of the

Sweetwater County. None of the current land uses within the vicinity of the TMRT lim its the

area's ability to support recreational activities including travel on the CDNST.

Therefore, cum ulative im pacts to recreational opportunities would not be im portant because

there are no past, present, or reasonable foreseeable future actions that, when com bined with the

Proposed Action, would result in im pacts beyond those that already exist or have already been

identified and discussed in Chapter 4.0 of this EA.
142 Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

4.10 SOCIOECONOMICS

4.10.1 Proposed Action

Under the Proposed Action, approxim ately 10-75 temporary construction workers and possibly

approximately 50 m iners in addition to those employed at the existing surface m ine would be

employed at the proposed underground m ine. Construction operations would start in

approximately mid-2005 and would continue through the end of 2007; however, precise dates

would depend upon the overall project schedule, weather conditions, and the approval of all

required regulatory perm its and authorizations. The additional m iners would begin work after

construction operations have been com pleted and the m iners needed to m eet production

requirements would probably be required over the 15- to 20-year life of the operation.

It is likely that most of the specialized temporary construction workers would come from outside

of the Sweetwater County area. However, with underground longwall-type m ining operations

currently being conducted at the trona mines located west of Green River, it is possible that some

of the additional miners may be hired from within the existing workforce.

For the purpose of this analysis, it is assum ed that 25 (or 50%) of the m iners would be hired

from the existing Sweetwater County workforce and the rem aining 25 (or 50%) of the m iners

would come from outside of existing Sweetwater County workforce.

Based on the most current housing data available from the U.S. Census Bureau of the year 2000,

there are 15,921 housing units in Sweetwater County and 1,816 (11.4%) of these units were

vacant. In Rock Springs and Green River, there is a total of 13,524 housing units and 1,301

(9.6%) of these units were vacant. The hom e ownership rate is 75.1% in Sweetwater County

(U.S. Census Bureau 2003). Housing units in Ro ck Springs and Green River are a m ix of new

and historic m ulti- and single-fam ily units and there is a wide variety of m ulti-family units

(including town-hom es, condom iniums, duplexes, and apartm ent com plexes) available to

accommodate the housing needs of singles and fam ilies (Sweetwater County Econom ic
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease 143

Development 2003). In addition, there are 30 hotels/m otels and 11 private cam pgrounds/mobile

home parks in Rock Springs and Green River. Based on this inform ation, there would likely be

no shortage of housing units for the 10-75 tem porary construction works or the 25 m iners that

might relocate to the Sweetwater County area. The 25 m iners that might relocate from existing

operations would not require new housing units since they are already living in the area.

Existing infrastructure in Sweetwater County (e.g., utilities, schools, hospitals, etc.) would be

adequate to accom modate the lim ited additional tem porary construction and perm anent mining

jobs created by Proposed Action.

In 1999, the average annual wage for coal m iners in W yoming (not including benefits) was

approximately $58,100. As a result, the 50 additional m iners would generate approxim ately

$2,905,000.00 in total annual wages. Assum ing a 3.0 m ultiplier (secondary em ployment to

primary employment), it is estimated that approximately 150 jobs (full-time equivalents) may be

potentially created in the area of secondary em ployment associated, with possibly 50 additional

miners that would be em ployed under the Proposed Action (Borden et al. 1994). These jobs

would be in the areas of wholesale and retail trade, local governm ent, services, and other

business and would have an estim ated average annual wage of between $13,000 to $25,000

(Borden et al. 1994).

Assuming a 70% recovery of in-place coal reserves from underground longwall m ining

operations, approxim ately 30.8 m illion tons of federal coal would be rem oved and a total of

approximately 85 million tons of federal, state, and private coal from the entire TMRT area over

the LOM. Projected revenue to the State of W yoming is estimated at $93.5 million from mining

the entire TMRT area, of which $33.9 m illion would be generated from mining of the federal

coal, based on $1.10 per ton of coal sold and including income from severance tax, property and

production taxes, sales and use taxes, and W yoming's share of federal royalty paym ent (Borden

et al. 1994). Locally, m ining of coal from the TMRT area would help stabilize m unicipal,

county, and state economies.
144 Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

4.10.2 No Action Alternative

Under the No Action Alternative, the coal lease sale would not occur, no underground m ining

operations would be conducted within the TMRT, and there would be no additional development

in the proposed project area (beyond the existing mining and other industrial development). As a

result, BCC would have to identify, lease, and perm it other coal reserves in order stay

competitive and to m eet coal supply requirem ents. In addition, none of the financial or

employment benefits identified under the Proposed Action would be realized.

If the No Action Alternative were selected, BCC would likely not be able to sustain historic coal

production levels because the rem aining coal reserves located within the existing lease area

would becom e uneconom ical to m ine using only surface m ining operations. Therefore, it is

likely that BCC would have to use a com bination of limited surface mining methods along with

highwall m ining m ethods to produce coal at som e reduced level of production. BCC would

continue to produce coal for the Jim Bridger Power Plant as long as the production costs for coal

from the Jim Bridger Mine were com petitive with m arket alternatives. Undoubtedly, there

would be a decrease in the am ount of coal m ined at the Jim Bridger Coal Mine with a

corresponding reduction in the num ber of m iners em ployed at BCC. However, BCC has not

completed a detailed analysis of this scenar io and does not have specific inform ation on how

long surface and highwall m ining operations could continue or how m any workers would be

required for ongoing mining and reclamation operations under the No Action Alternative.

The coal mined at the Jim Bridger Mine includes m inimal transportation costs because the m ine

is less than 10 m i away from the power plant, and, once it is m ined, the coal is transported

directly to the power plant via an overland conveyor system . This type of mine-mouth operation

helps m inimize coal transportation cost to the Jim Bridger Power Plant, thus benefiting the

customers of PacifiCorp and Idaho Power Com pany (PacifiCorp owns two-thirds interest and

Idaho Power Company owns one-third interest in the Jim Bridger Power Plant). Coal purchased

by the power plant from other suppliers would likely have to be transported to the power plant
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease 145

by rail and would include increased transportation costs that are not currently incurred on the

coal that is produced at the Jim Bridger Mine.

The Jim Bridger Power Plant is capable of gene rating 2,120 MW of electricity and is the largest

coal-fired power plant in the joint owner' s pow er generation system s. In addition, the Jim

Bridger Power Plant and is connected to the west ern power grid through a series of transm ission

lines. The western power grid provides electricity to 13 western states, the provinces of British

Columbia and Alberta, and a portion of northern Mexico. If the No Action Alternative were

selected, representatives for the Jim Bridger Power Plant would need to secure additional

supplies of suitable coal from other mines in the region so that the power plant could continue to

operate. There would likely be no disruption of service or decrease in output from the Jim

Bridger Power Plant.

4.10.3 Residual Impacts

The Proposed Action would provide continuing em ployment for em ployees of BCC and would

generate millions of dollars over the life of the proposed project in wages for em ployees and tax

revenue for federal and state governm ents. There would also be no negative im pact on the local

infrastructure in Rock Springs, Green River, or the Sweetwater County area. Therefore, there

would be no unavoidable adverse im pacts to socioeconomic condition from either the Proposed

Action. The Proposed Action would provide num erous econom ic benefits to Rock Springs,

Green River, Sweetwater County, and Wyoming economies.

4.10.4 Cumulative Impacts

The Proposed Action would create 10-75 tem porary construction-related jobs and (possibly)

approximately 50 additional m ining jobs. The Proposed Action would be one additional source

of jobs in southwestern W yoming, especially Sweetwater County, and another source of tax

revenues for the federal, state, county, and m unicipal governments, both of which are desirable

outcomes from an economic development perspective. The Proposed Action would also provide
146 Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

increased economic stability for Rock Springs, Green River, Sweetwater County, and the state of

Wyoming. The current infrastructure within Sweetwater County would be capable of

accommodating the additional prim ary and secondary em ployment created by the Proposed

Action without having any adverse socioeconomic impacts.

Therefore, cum ulative adverse im pacts to so cioeconomic resources would not be im portant

because there are no past, present, or reasonable foreseeable future actions that, when com bined

with the Proposed Action, would result in im pacts beyond those that already exist or have

already been identified and discussed in Chapter 4.0 of this EA.

4.11 SOIL RESOURCES

4.11.1 Proposed Action

The Proposed Action would result in approxim ately 28 acres of initial disturbance from the

construction of m ine support facilities. In addition, an estim ated 59 acres, associated with

reclamation effort to repair surface cracks due to subsidence (i.e., 1% of the TMRT), would be

disturbed over the life of the m ine. Direct im pacts to soils would include the rem oval of

vegetation, exposure of the soil, m ixing of soil horizons, loss of topsoil productivity, soil

compaction, and increased susceptibility to wind and water erosion. These im pacts may, in turn,

result in increased runoff, erosion, and sedim entation to the any receiving water system .

Short-term control of surface runoff and sedim entation would be accom plished by

implementation of alternate sedim ent control m easures required by the W DEQ/LQD and

described in the mine plan portion of the Proposed Action.

In addition, long-term control of surf ace runoff would be accom plished by successful

implementation of the reclam ation plan described in the Proposed Action. Reclam ation and

revegetation procedures would be designed to reduce the susceptibility of disturbed areas to soil

erosion in both the short-term and for the life of the project. Im plementation of the

WDEQ/LQD-approved m ine and reclam ation plan described in the Proposed Action includes
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease 147

specific m easures to protect soil resources. These m itigation m easures include proper

construction of topsoil stockpiles (including installation of toe ditches and tem porary

reclamation), im plementation of alternate sedim ent control m easures, and the successful

implementation of the reclamation plan for the facilities construction areas and subsidence repair

areas within the TMRT.

4.11.2 No Action Alternative

Under the No Action Alternative, the coal lease sale would not occur, no underground m ining

operations would be conducted within the TMRT, there would be no additional developm ent in

the proposed project area (beyond the existing m ining and other industrial developm ent), and

existing impacts to soil resources in the proposed project area would continue to occur at current

rates.

4.11.3 Residual Impacts

The Proposed Action would result in some increased and unavoidable soil loss through wind and

water erosion. Productivity of som e disturbed soils would be reduced due to the tem porary

removal of vegetation, exposure of the soils, mixing of soil horizons, and increased susceptibility

to wind and water erosion. However, these im pacts would be m itigated by im plementation of

specific operational and reclamation procedures discussed under the Proposed Action.

4.11.4 Cumulative Impacts

Within the CIAA, a total of 6,511 acres have been disturbed; the Jim Bridger Mine and Jim

Bridger Power Plant have disturbed approxim ately 4,828 acres, other hum an-related disturbance

within the CIAA (e.g., roads and wells) has disturbed an additional estim ated 381 acres, and

minor industrial facilities have disturbed 1,302 acres. Under the Proposed Action,

approximately 87 acres would be disturbed by m ine facilities and reclam ation operations from

the repair of surface cracks due to subsidence. Based on these acreages, approximately 9.60% of
148 Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

the CIAA is currently disturbed and approxim ately 9.76% of the CIAA would be cum ulatively

disturbed by the Proposed Action and reasonably foreseeable future actions.

Disturbed surface- and underground-m ined lands would eventually (10-20 years) be capable of

supporting predisturbance uses once reclamation operations are completed. Soil resources would

be protected from long-term impacts by implementation of erosion control measures including in

the Proposed Action.

Therefore, cum ulative im pacts to soil resources would not be im portant because there are no

past, present, or reasonable foreseeable future actions that, when com bined with the Proposed

Action, would result in im pacts beyond those that already exist or have already been identified

and discussed in Chapter 4.0 of this EA.

4.12 THREATENED, ENDANGERED, CANDIDATE, PROPOSED, AND SENSITIVE

SPECIES

4.12.1 Proposed Action

Federally listed TEC&P species with the poten tial to occur in the project area are black-footed

ferret and bald eagle. Im pacts to federally listed TEC&P species due to the Proposed Action

likely would occur in direct proportion to the amount of their habitat disturbed.

4.12.1.1 Black-footed Ferrets

The TMRT contains white-tailed prairie dog--the prim ary food source for black-footed ferrets.

Therefore, any impacts to prairie dogs may result in an adverse affect to black-footed ferrets. In

order to assess the potential habitat for black -footed ferrets within the TMRT, BCC would

inventory and m ap all white-tailed prairie dog towns within 0.5 m i of the TMRT and would

identify any prairie dog towns within the TMRT. Prior to any physical disturbance to the whitetailed prairie dog town within the TMRT, BCC would consult with the BLM and would

undertake clearance surveys for black-footed ferrets as directed by the BLM in accordance with

USFWS (1989) guidelines. Results of all prairie dog town inventories and black-footed ferret
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease 149

surveys would be subm itted to the BLM and USFW S for review and approval prior to the

initiation of ground-disturbing activities. If black-footed ferrets or signs of black-footed ferrets

are found, BCC would consult with BLM and USFW S and would undertake appropriate

measures as directed by the USFW S that would m itigate any potential im pacts to black-footed

ferrets.

4.12.1.2 Bald Eagle

Underground m ining operations would not conflict with norm al bald eagle foraging or travel

behavior; however, direct impacts to bald eagles may include mortality due to electrocutions and

collisions with project-related powerline structures. As described in the Proposed Action, the

powerline would be designed, constructed, operated, and m aintained in conform ance with the

National Electrical Safety Code and other applicable codes and standards, as well as Suggested

Practices for Raptor Protection on Powerlines: The State of the Art in 1996 (APLIC 1996) and

Mitigating Bird Collisions with Powerlines: The State of the Art in 1994 (APLIC 1994).

Implementation of these standards would reduce the risk of raptor electrocutions and collisions

with powerline structures.

4.12.1.3 BLM-sensitive Species

All BLM-sensitive species likely to occur within the TMRT and vicinity have been identified in

Table 3.5 of this EA. BLM-sensitive species docum ented in or in the vicinity of the TMRT

include white-tailed prairie dog, pygm y rabbit, white-faced ibis, ferruginous hawk, greater sagegrouse, long-billed curlew, burrowing owl, sage thrasher, loggerhead shrike, Brewer' s sparrow,

mountain plover, northern leopard frog, Great Basin spadefoot, Nelson' s milkvetch, and mystery

wormwood (WNDD 2003). Most of the BLM-sensitive species likely to occur within the TMRT

are mobile enough that they would likely not be affected by the Proposed Action. However, it is

also possible that som e individuals of BLM-sensitive species m ay occur and m ay be adversely

affected by the Proposed Action. However, due to the lim ited amount and dispersed nature of

the area that would be disturbed (approxim ately 87 acres), the im pacts would be isolated to the
150 Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

specific areas that would be disturbed, and the im pacts would be im portant to the specific

populations that might occur in the project area.

Several of the BLM-sensitive species likely to o ccur in or in the vicinity of the TMRT are

fossorial in nature (i.e., they live in burrows or underground) (such as white-tailed prairie dogs)

or they utilize burrows for a portion of their breed ing period (such as burrowing owls). As such,

some individuals that m ight occur in the TMRT m ay be adversely im pacted by the Proposed

Action. Potential adverse im pacts to white-taile d prairie dogs or burrowing owls that occur in

the area directly affected by subsidence include direct m ortality, loss of suitable nesting or

burrowing habitat, or displacem ent from the burrow or nesting areas. W hile it may be possible

that individual white-tailed prairie dogs or burrowing owls that live in areas directly affected by

mine-related subsidence m ay be adversely affected by the Proposed Action, the im pacts would

be limited to few individuals and would not have an adverse im pact on their populations. In

addition, the Proposed Action would not contribute to the need to list the species under the

provisions of the federal Endangered Species Act.

4.12.2 No Action Alternative

Under the No Action Alternative, the coal lease sale would not occur, no underground m ining

operations would be conducted within the TMRT, there would be no additional developm ent in

the proposed project area (beyond the existing m ining and other industrial developm ent), and

impacts on TEC&P and BLM-sensitive species populations would continue at present levels,

with fluctuations due primarily to weather, disease, and other natural causes.

4.12.3 Residual Impacts

It is possible that individual bald eagles, bl ack-footed ferrets, and m ountain plovers and other

individual BLM-sensitive species may be impacted by the Proposed Action; however, there have

been no sightings of any bald eagles or black-footed ferrets within the TMRT project area and
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease 151

appropriate surveys and/or m itigation m easures would be im plemented. All required speciesspecific surveys and mitigation measures would also be implemented.

4.12.4 Cumulative Impacts

Cumulative im pacts to TEC&P and BLM-sensitive species would likely occur in direct

proportion to the am ount of physical im pacts that occur to habitat of the specific species.

Potential im pacts to TEC&P species due to the Proposed Action would be m inimized by

conducting species-specific surveys and the im plementation of species-specific m itigation

measures if the species are found. In addition, im pacts to individual BLM-sensitive species due

to the Proposed Action would be isolated to the specific areas that would be disturbed and the

impacts would not be detrimental to the specific populations that might occur in the project area.

There is also no information that there are or have been any important cumulative impacts to any

TEC&P and BLM-sensitive species within the vicinity of the TMRT area.

Therefore, cum ulative im pacts to TEC&P and BLM-sensitive species would not be im portant

because there are no past, present, or reasonably foreseeable future actions that, when com bined

with the Proposed Action, would result in im pacts beyond those that already exist or have

already been identified and discussed in Chapter 4.0 of this EA.

4.13 VEGETATION (INCLUDING INVASIVE SPECIES)

4.13.1 Proposed Action

The Proposed Action would result in approxim ately 28 acres of new disturbance from the

construction of m ine facilities and an estim ated 59 acres of disturbance associated with

reclamation effort to repair surface cracks due to subsidence (i.e., 1% of the TMRT). Direct

impacts to vegetation due to the Proposed Action include the rem oval of existing vegetation

community from disturbed area. In turn, vegetation rem oval would result in increased runoff,

erosion, and sedim entation to the any receiving water system s. Short-term control of surface
152 Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

runoff would be accom plished by im plementation of alternate sedim ent control m easures

required by the W DEQ/LQD and described in the m ine and reclam ation plan of the Proposed

Action. In addition, long-term control of surface runoff would be accom plished by successful

implementation of the reclam ation plan described in the Proposed Action. Reclam ation and

revegetation procedures would be designed to vegetate the disturbed area to a condition

comparable to pre-disturbance conditions a nd to m eet post-m ining reclam ation bond release

standards.

Indirect impacts to plant species would occur as a result of the subsidence of the underground

mine; however, projected subsidence is expected to be m inimal (approximately 6.0 to 9.5 ft in

height), and areas that require reclamation are expected to be limited to approximately 1% of the

total TMRT area (59 acres). Vegetation is not likely to be directly disturbed unless surface

cracks form, and if such cracks form , BCC would revegetate such disturbances as directed by

WDEQ/LQD. Indirect im pacts would occur because basin and ridge topography would alter

local soil m oisture regim es, which m ay gradually affect species distribution. Spots that are

lowered may receive m ore moisture, which would enhance shrub growth, or they m ay receive

too much moisture, thus stunting or precluding shrub growth, but prom oting more herbaceous

growth. The final postm ining topography m ay also alter snow distribution and thus m oisture

accumulation patterns, which m ay also cause gradual perm anent changes to vegetation and

wildlife distribution. These im pacts would be m inor and limited to the area directly affected by

the subsidence.

As part of the W DEQ/LQD permit to m ine, BCC would be responsible for the developm ent of

mine subsidence and reclam ation plan that would include detailed inform ation concerning the

amount of anticipated subsidence, m itigation m easures to prevent or m inimize the im pacts of

subsidence, mitigation measures to prevent, lessen, or m itigate material damage or loss of value

of physical property in the area, a subsidence m onitoring and mitigation plan, and a reclam ation

plan to address reclam ation and revegetation requirem ents on affected areas. Following the

completion of reclamation operations, the revegetated areas would be monitored at least annually

for five years by BCC and W DEQ/LQD to assess the subsidence and the adequacy or need for
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease 153

additional reclam ation and revegetation efforts. Subsidence and erosional features would be

monitored and appropriate corrective actions instituted if conditions warrant. Additional erosion

control features would be em ployed as needed and as directed by W DEQ/LQD. All m itigation

and corrective actions would be conducted in accordance with the approved W DEQ/LQD mine

permit.

Invasive species (i.e., weed) control measures would also remain in place during all phases of the

mining and reclam ation process. Designated or prohibited noxious weeds on disturbed lands

within the TMRT area would be controlled. In general, the following procedures would be

instituted.

• Land disturbance would be kept to a m inimum, wherever possible, during the

mining process.

• BCC would utilize only certified weed-free m ulch and seed during reclam ation

operations.

• Chemical herbicides m ay be used to control noxious or prohibited weeds. The

local weed and pest agency would be contacted, and the problem would be

addressed in com pliance with appropriate regulations. If required, a Pesticide

Use Plan would be prepared and approved by W DEQ/LQD and BLM prior to

application of pesticides.

BCC would also be required to post a reclam ation performance bond with the State of W yoming

to ensure that they com ply with all the requirem ents of the W DEQ/LQD perm it and that

reclamation goals and objectives are m et. Once m ining and reclam ation operations have been

completed, BCC would follow reclam ation bond release procedures specified by W DEQ/LQD.

Reclamation bond release procedures for an underg round coal mine are identical to surface coal

mines, including the 10-year bond release period after the com pletion of permanent reclamation

operation, and require that a stable land form exists and that revegetation standards have been

met. W DEQ/LQD would release the full reclam ation perform ance bond only after strict

reclamation standards have been m et and the public has been provided an opportunity to

comment.
154 Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

4.13.2 No Action Alternative

Under the No Action Alternative, the coal lease sale would not occur, no underground m ining

operations would be conducted within the TMRT, there would be no additional developm ent in

the TMRT area by BCC (beyond the existing m ining and other industrial developm ent), and

existing impacts to vegetation resources in the proposed project area would continue to occur at

current rates.

4.13.3 Residual Impacts

The Proposed Action would result in the tem porary rem oval of vegetation from an estim ated

87 acres associated with the m ine facilities and areas associated with repair of m ine-related

subsidence. However, once m ine operations are com pleted, reclam ation efforts would

re-establish the vegetative community that would be similar to pre-mining conditions and would

mitigate any long-term im pacts to vegetation resources. It could take 10-20 years after

reclamation operations have been com pleted for some of the reclaim ed areas to have shrub

conditions and vegetation diversity comparable to predisturbance conditions.

4.13.4 Cumulative Impacts

Based on the disturbance calculations presented in Chapter 3, approxim ately 6,511 acres are

currently disturbed within the CIAA. This represents approxim ately 9.6% of the total area

within the CIAA. Reasonably foreseeable future actions (including the Proposed Action) within

the CIAA would result in an additional 109 acres of disturbance (which am ounts to 6,620 acres

of total disturbance due to existing activities, the Proposed Action, and reasonably foreseeable

future actions). This represents 0.16% of the total area within the CIAA or 9.76% based on the

total disturbance due to existing activities, the Proposed Action, and reasonably foreseeable

future actions.
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease 155

Vegetation resources would be protected from long-term im pacts by im plementation of

reclamation operation included in the Proposed Action, and the vegetation would eventually be

capable of supporting pre-disturbance land uses once reclamation operations have and vegetation

has become reestablished. The Jim Bridger Power Plant, m inor industrial facilities, wells and

associated facilities, and roads are part of long-term econom ic developm ent in Sweetwater

County and would not likely be rem oved or reclaim ed in the foreseeable future. Therefore,

cumulative impacts to vegetation resources would not be im portant because there are no past,

present, or reasonably foreseeable future actions that, when com bined with the Proposed Action,

would result in im pacts beyond those that alrea dy exist or have already been identified and

discussed in Chapter 4.0 of this EA.

4.14 WASTES (HAZARDOUS AND SOLID)

4.14.1 Proposed Action

Based on the Proposed Action, BCC does not anticipate that any hazardous waste would be

generated during mining or reclamation operations. However, any hazardous substances that are

released (leaks, spills, etc.), whether at the surface support facilities or within the underground

mining workings, that m ay no longer be used for its original purpose would be treated as a

hazardous waste in accordance with state and federal regulations. Any release of hazardous

substances in excess of reportable quantities, established in Title 40 C.F.R. Part 117, would be

reported as required by CERCLA, as am ended. If a release of a reportable quantity of any

hazardous substances occurs, a report would be furnished to W DEQ and all other appropriate

federal and state agencies. Prior to construction of any facilities associated with the Proposed

Action, inventories of hazardous chem ical categories pursuant to Section 312 of the SARA, as

amended, would be updated.

Toilets would be provided for workers on-site and at the proposed change house located at

Ramp 14, and the waste would be properly disposed of through the septic system or at an

approved waste disposal facility on an as-needed basis or it would be handled through a septic
156 Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

system located near the proposed change house. Solid waste such as garbage and other

discarded solid materials would be collected at a designated collection site and disposed of at an

approved solid waste m anagement facility. Solid waste would not be im ported or disposed of

within the TMRT area. Spills of petroleum products m ay occur during m ining due to periodic

equipment maintenance and/or accidents. Petroleum-contaminated soils would be disposed of in

an approved facility capable of accepting such waste. All nonhazardous m aterial would be

disposed of in accordance with appropriate local, state, and federal regulations.

Unanticipated release events (such as spills or leaks) are always possible but unlikely, and BCC

would comply with all applicable planning and emergency procedures regarding spill prevention,

reporting, and cleanup required by local, state, and federal laws and regulations should an

accident occur.

4.14.2 No Action Alternative

Under the No Action Alternative, the coal lease sale would not occur, no underground m ining

operations would be conducted within the TMRT, there would be no additional developm ent in

the proposed project area (beyond the existing m ining and other industrial developm ent), and

impacts to hazardous and solid waste would remain at existing levels.

4.14.3 Residual Impacts

Impacts to soils, surface water, groundwater, vegetation, and wildlife could result from

nonremediated accidental spills, releases, or leaks of hazardous and solid waste. In the event of

a hazardous waste spill or leak, it is likely that only a sm all am ount of soil would be

contaminated. However, if a spill or leak occu rs, the affected area would be cleaned up in a

timely manner and in accordance with state and federal rules and regulations.
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease 157

4.14.4 Cumulative Impacts

Under Resource Conservation and Recovery Act regulations, the Jim Bridger Mine and the Jim

Bridger Power Plant are both registered as a sm all-quantity hazardous waste generators. There

are two active solid waste disposal sites with in the vicinity of the TMRT, one operated by BCC

and one operated by the Jim Bridger Power Plant (personal communication, April 18, 2002, with

Kathy Brown, W DEQ/SHWD, Lander, W yoming). As a result, any hazardous or solid waste

generated by these facilities are handled in accordan ce with specific federal and state rules and

regulations.

Therefore, cumulative impacts due to hazardous and solid waste would not be im portant because

there are no past, present, or reasonably foreseeable future actions that, when com bined with the

Proposed Action, would result in im pacts beyond those that already exist or have already been

identified and discussed in Chapter 4.0 of this EA.

4.15 WATER RESOURCES

4.15.1 Surface Water Resources

4.15.1.1 Proposed Action

The Proposed Action would result in approxim ately 28 acres of new disturbance from the

construction of m ine facilities and an estim ated 59 acres of disturbance associated with

reclamation effort to repair surface cracks due to subsidence (i.e., 1% of the TMRT). Direct

impacts to surface water resources would include an increase in runoff, wind and water erosion,

and sedim entation to the any receiving system as a result of surface disturbance, rem oval of

vegetation, exposure of the soil to the elem ents, and soil com paction. Ephemeral channels may

also be impacted as a result of subsidence that may cause limited head-cutting or ponding within

affected channels. Short-term control of surface runoff would be accom plished by

implementation of alternate sedim ent control m easures required by the W DEQ/LQD and
158 Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

described in the m ine plan portion of the Proposed Action. However, there would be no

temporary or perm anent depletion of surface water resources. In addition, long-term control of

surface runoff would be accom plished by successful im plementation of the reclam ation plan

described in the Proposed Action. Reclam ation and revegetation procedures would be designed

to reduce the susceptibility of disturbed areas to soil erosion in both the short-term and for the

life of the project.

In addition, excess mine water not needed for dust suppression would be pumped into an existing

WDEQ/LQD- and W DEQ/WQD-approved holding pond where the water would be m onitored

and discharged into the Deadm an W ash drainage channel after it m eets NPDES discharge

standards. This activity would be conducted as part of ongoing m ine dewatering operations

conducted at the Jim Bridger Mine and in accordance with BCC's existing NPDES discharge

permit issued by WDEQ/WQD.

No perennial streams would be directly impacted by the underground mining activities, and there

would be no depletion of surface water resources. Therefore, no additional m itigation measures

beyond those already included in the Proposed Action would be required.

None of the drainages within the TMRT or the CIAA are included in the W DEQ/WQD 303(d)

list of water bodies with water quality im pairments (W DEQ/WQD 2000). This list includes

rivers, streams, creeks, or any water bodies of water for which effluent lim itations required by

the federal Clean Water Act, as am ended, are not stringent enough to im plement any water

quality standards applicable to such waters.

4.15.1.2 No Action Alternative

Under the No Action Alternative, the coal lease sale would not occur, no underground m ining

operations would be conducted within the TMRT, there would be no additional developm ent in

the project area (beyond the existing m ining and other industrial developm ent), and im pacts to

surface water resources would continue at current rates.
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease 159

4.15.1.3 Residual Impacts

There would be an unavoidable m inor increase (87 acres) in the disturbance in the watersheds

under the Proposed Action and the potential for som e increase in runoff and sedim ents that

would likely reach local waterways. In addition, some ephemeral channels may be impacted as a

result of subsidence. However, im plementation of sediment control m easures required by the

WDEQ/WQD and WDEQ/LQD would minimize these impacts. There would also be tem porary

and lim ited loss of surface water due to the utilization of the alternative sedim ent control

measures. Following the successful com pletion of perm anent reclam ation operations, surface

water flow and quality would eventually mimic predisturbance conditions.

4.15.1.4 Cumulative Impacts

Based on the disturbance calculations presented in Chapter 3, approxim ately 6,308 acres are

currently disturbed within the CIAA. This represents 8.07% of the total area within the CIAA.

reasonably foreseeable future actions (including the Proposed Action) within the CIAA would

result in an additional 109 acres of disturbance (6,417 acres of total disturbance due to existing

activities, the Proposed Action, and reasonably foreseeable future actions). This represents

0.14% of the total area within the CIAA or 8.21% based on the total disturbance due to existing

activities and reasonably foreseeable future actions.

Existing surface m ining operations at the Jim Bridger Mine would likely result in m ore

cumulative impacts to surface water resources than any other activity within the CIAA. Im pacts

include the tem porary reduction of surface water flow and potential im pacts to surface water

quality. However, all m ining operations, including the Proposed Action, are regulated by the

WDEQ/LQD and W DEQ/WQD, which requires the im plementation of specific m itigation

measures to reduce and lim it impacts to surface water resources. As a result, these operations

would have no important impacts on surface water flow and quality.

Therefore, cumulative impacts to surface water re sources would not be im portant because there

are no past, present, or reasonable foreseeable future actions that, when com bined with the
160 Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

Proposed Action, would result in im pacts beyond those that already exist or have already been

identified and discussed in Chapter 4.0 of this EA.

4.15.2 Groundwater Resources

4.15.2.1 Proposed Action

Under the Proposed Action, BCC would requi re approximately 100,000 to 500,000 gallons of

water per day from the Deadman coal zone for dust suppression and equipment washdown and at

the surface support facilities. In addition, approxim ately 5,915 acres of coal aquifer (the sam e

one that would be mined) would be temporarily removed during mining.

Underground coal mining within the TMRT would be expected to have little, if any, short-term

or long-term effect on the regional hydrologic regi me. It is anticipated that m ining operations

would intercept groundwater resource contained within the Deadm an coal zone of the Fort

Union Formation. Groundwater intersected by m ining operations would be pum ped out of the

mine portal. If the water is not needed for dust suppression or equipment washdown, it would be

eventually discharged into Deadm an Wash drainage in accordance with the BCC's existing and

approved NPDES permit.

Drawdown of the coal aquifer would occur th roughout the life of the m ine and would likely

mimic groundwater drawdown patterns currently observed as a result of BCC's surface coal

mining operation. The drawdown lim it of the D eadman coal zone would likely continue to

extend northwest of the existing surface m ine operation. In addition, a lim ited am ount of

drawdown would also occur in the Lance Formation and Fort Union Formation overburden. The

amount of drawdown would depend upon num erous hydrogeologic factors including the am ount

of hydraulic connectivity between the various form ations. Prior to the initiation of underground

mining operations, BCC would apply for and obtain groundwater rights from the WSEO for the

groundwater resource that would be im pacted. There are no known groundwater appropriations

within the vicinity of the TMRT, except those currently held by BCC. However, in accordance

with WSEO regulations and W yoming state law, if it is determ ined that groundwater drawdown
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease 161

from m ining operations has affected any pre-existing appropriated groundwater right, BCC

would be required to provide said water right holder(s) with an alternative source of water.

After mining operations have been completed and subsidence has begun, there m ight be changes

in the Fort Union Form ation overburden aquifer, the replaced Deadm an coal zone aquifer, and

the Lance Formation aquifer due to interruption and deformation of strata located near the mined

out longwall panels. The am ount and extent of aquifer changes would depend upon num erous

hydrogeologic factors including the extent of fractures and their ability to seal them selves. For

western underground coal m ines, the relationship of fracture height is predicted to be equal to

30 times the height of the coal that was removed (Kadnuck 1994). Assuming approximately 7 to

11 ft of coal would be rem oved during m ining, this relationship predicts that a m ajority of the

fracturing would occur approxim ately 210 to 330 ft above the m ined longwall panels within the

project area. Above this interval, continuous bending of strata generally occurs and pre-existing

fractures can dilate (i.e., swell or expand) and would likely result in lim ited groundwater flow

variations to the natural system (Kadnuck 1994).

In addition, after m ining operations are com pleted, affected aquifers would be physically

replaced with existing overburden m aterial as subsidence occurs and the void created by

longwall mining is elim inated. Affected aquifers would then begin to resaturate as postm inng

potentiometric elevations recover in the surrounding undisturbed aquifers. The recharge rate

would depend on the specific physical characteristics of the replaced aquifer (Deadm an coal

zone) and the indirectly im pacted aquifers (the Fort Union Form ation overburden and the Lance

Formation). W hile it m ay require 100 years or m ore for postm ine groundwater levels to

recharge to premine levels (BLM 2003), aquifer drawdown (due to the Proposed Action) would

not be permanent and the affected aquifers would eventually be reestablished.

Groundwater quality in the postm ining subsidence aquifer would likely contain higher levels of

calcium, sulfate, m agnesium, m anganese, and TDS than prem ining waters because infiltrating

water would flow across relatively fresh-cut rock faces where newly exposed m inerals would be

readily dissolved (Rahn 1976; Van Voast 1978). Premining groundwater quality is moderate and
162 Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

suitable only for agricultural use, livestock and wildlife watering, and industrial purposes.

Postmining groundwater quality would be sim ilar to prem ining conditions and m ay, in som e

situations, change from Class II (agricultural use) water to Class III (livestock and wildlife

watering use) water.

The closest surface expression of groundwater to the TMRT is at Radar Springs, approxim ately

1 mi northwest of the TMRT. However, based upon the slope of the coal beds that would be

impacted by the Proposed Action and knowledge gained at the existing Jim Bridger Mine and

local geologic m aps, the proposed underground m ine would be located down-gradient of Radar

Springs and most likely is not connected to Ra dar Springs and would not im pact Radar Springs

(personal communication, February 4, 2002, with Dennis Doncaster, BLM hydrologist).

4.15.2.2 No Action Alternative

Under the No Action Alternative, the coal lease sale would not occur, no underground m ining

operations would be conducted within the TMRT, there would be no additional developm ent in

the proposed project area (beyond the existing m ining and other industrial developm ent), and

impacts to groundwater resources would continue at current rates.

4.15.2.3 Residual Impacts

Under the Proposed Action, approxim ately 100,000 to 500,000 gallons of water per day for

approximately 15 to 20 years would be utilized, and approxim ately 5,915 acres of coal aquifer

would be removed from the TMRT area. W ater quality may be slightly altered by the Proposed

Action; however, any im pacts to groundwater quality would be sim ilar to what is occurring

within the current mining operations at the Jim Bridger Mine and water quality would still m eet

either Class II or III standards for use. It m ay require 100 years or m ore for postm ining

groundwater levels to recharge to prem ining levels; however, these im pacts would not be

permanent. In addition, it is possible that som e groundwater resources would be tem porarily

altered by the Proposed Action; however, there are no known legally appropriated groundwater
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease 163

sources (i.e., water rights), besides those held by BCC, within the TMRT or the general vicinity.

Under Wyoming state law, if needed, BCC would also be required to m itigate any im pacts to

pre-existing water rights.

4.15.2.4 Cumulative Impacts

Surface mining operations at the Jim Bridger Mine likely result in m ore impacts to groundwater

resources than any other hum an-related activity within the CIAA. Im pacts sim ilar to those

discussed above, include rem oving groundwater, replacing the existing water-bearing zones,

potentially impacting groundwater quality, and altering groundwater recharge rates (BCC 2003).

However, these impacts are not expected to be permanent.

As a result of ongoing surface coal mining operations by BCC, portions of the TMRT have likely

already been im pacted to som e extent by groundwater drawdown northeast of the current Jim

Bridger Mine permit boundary (BCC 2003). The Leucite Hills surface coal m ine removes coal

from the Alm ond Formation located geologically below the Fort Union Form ation. W ithin the

CIAA, the Fort Union and Alm ond Form ations are hydrologically isolated from each other.

Therefore, groundwater drawdown in the Fort Union Form ation is not affected by m ining and

groundwater rem oval operations conducted in th e Alm ond Form ation and would not result in

cumulative im pacts between the two form ations (BCC 2003). The addition of the Proposed

Action would likely result in the lim ited cumulative groundwater drawdown in the Fort Union

Formation farther to the northeast of the TMRT area. W DEQ/LQD requires all coal m ining

companies to determine the predicted extent of the 5-ft drawdown contour prior to the approval

of the m ine and reclam ation perm it. Therefore, BCC would conduct necessary groundwater

studies to determine the predicted 5-ft drawdown levels during the m ine permitting phase of the

project. Based on information presented in BCC's existing mine and reclamation permit, the 5-ft

groundwater level would likely be limited within the CIAA and would have no im portant impact

on regional groundwater resources.
164 Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

All mining operations, including the Proposed Action, would be regulated by the W DEQ/LQD

and WDEQ/WQD, which would require the im plementation of appropriate m itigation measures

to reduce and limit impacts to groundwater resources. Existing appropriated groundwater rights

would also be protected. As a result, BCC has existing perm its from regulatory agencies in

accordance with applicable federal and state laws.

Therefore, cumulative impacts to groundwater re sources would not be im portant because there

are no past, present, or reasonable foreseeable future actions that, when com bined with the

Proposed Action, would result in im pacts beyond those that already exist or have already been

identified and discussed in Chapter 4.0 of this EA.

4.16 WETLANDS AREAS

4.16.1 Proposed Action

The Proposed Action would result in approxim ately 28 acres of new disturbance from the

construction of mine support facilities and an estim ated 59 acres of disturbance associated with

reclamation effort to repair surface cracks due to subsidence (i.e., 1% of the TMRT). Based on

the results of a wetland inventory, there are no jurisdictional wetlands located within the TMRT

project area (Interm ountain Resources 2002). Therefore, the Proposed Action would not be

expected to have any impacts on wetland resources.

However, during the m ine perm itting process, the U.S. Arm y Corps of Engineers would

complete a review of the wetlands inventory report and would make a formal determination as to

the jurisdictional status of any potential we tland resource. Only the U.S. Arm y Corps of

Engineers has the legal responsibility and authority to m ake any such legal determ inations for

jurisdictional wetland areas. No additional perm itting requirem ents or m itigation m easures

would be necessary if the U.S. Arm y Corps of Engineers formally determines that there are no

jurisdictional wetlands within the project area. On the other hand, if the U.S. Arm y Corps of

Engineers determ ines that jurisdictional wetla nds are present within the TMRT project area,
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease 165

BCC would prepare the appropriate inform ation and would likely obtain coverage under an

existing nationwide perm it from the U.S. Arm y Corps of Engineers. It is unlikely that an

individual wetland perm it would be necessary for the Proposed Action. BCC would also

incorporate any necessary and appropriate wetland reclamation plans for this area into their mine

and reclam ation perm it application that would be reviewed and approved by W DEQ/LQD.

Therefore, if jurisdictional wetland areas are identified, permitted, and impacted by the Proposed

Action, proper reclam ation procedures would ensure that these areas are reclaim ed and

revegetated in accordance with W DEQ/LQD and U.S. Arm y Corp of Engineers rules and

regulations.

4.16.2 No Action Alternative

Under the No Action Alternative, the coal lease sale would not occur, no underground m ining

operations would be conducted within the TMRT (beyond the existing m ining and other

industrial development), there would be no additional developm ent in the proposed project area,

and impacts to wetlands areas would continue at current rates

4.16.3 Residual Impacts

There would be no residual impacts to wetland areas.

4.16.4 Cumulative Impacts

Based on the disturbance calculations presented in Chapter 3, approxim ately 6,511 acres are

currently disturbed within the CIAA. This represents approxim ately 9.60% of the total area

within the CIAA. reasonably foreseeable future actions (including the Proposed Action) within

the CIAA would result in an additional 109 acres of disturbance (which equals 6,620 acres of

total disturbance due to existing activities, the Proposed Action, and reasonably foreseeable

future actions). This represents 0.16% of the total area within the CIAA or 9.76% based on the

total disturbance due to existing activities and reasonably foreseeable future actions.
166 Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

Existing surface mining operations at the Jim Bridger Mine have likely resulted in m ore impacts

to wetland or riparian areas than any other current activity within the CIAA. Existing im pacts

include the tem porary removal of wetland and riparian areas. However, these im pacts are not

expected to be permanent, and wetland and riparian areas would be replaced or reclaimed.

The Proposed Action would result in no additional im pacts to wetland resources. Therefore,

there would be no cum ulative im pacts to wetlands because there are no past, present, or

reasonable foreseeable future actions that, when com bined with the Proposed Action, would

result in impacts beyond those that already exist or have already been identified and discussed in

Chapter 4.0 of this EA.

4.17 WILD HORSES

4.17.1 Proposed Action

Direct impacts to wild horse populations would result from the tem porary loss of 87 acres of

habitat due to vegetation rem oval; displacem ent of wild horses due to disturbance by

project-related activities; direct m ortality due to construction-related activities; and an increased

likelihood of vehicle/anim al collisions due to increased vehicle traffic. Im pacts to vegetation

due to disturbance would be limited in part due to the fact that the 87 acres of disturbance would

be spread over a larger area and would not occur in a single block of disturbance. In addition,

the population of wild horses within the GDBW HMA is within the BLM m anagement level for

this area. No im pacts to the local wild horse population would be expected due to the Proposed

Action.

Individual wild horses m ay also be injured if they trip in surface cracks created by subsidence.

The temporary loss of wild horse habitat due to vegetation rem oval and danger of injury to wild

horses would be m itigated with appropriate and tim ely reclamation and revegetation m easures

included in the Proposed Action and required for the W DEQ/LQD perm it. However, once

reclamation and revegetation operations have been com pleted and suitable vegetation habitat

re-established, wild horses would likely re-occupy the im pacted portion of the TMRT area. The

direct removal of wild horse habitat would be minimal.
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease 167

The potential for vehicle/wild horse collisions during project-related construction activities

would be m itigated by im posing speed lim its on all roads. Noise from traffic, surface-related

activities, and the underground m ining operation would be m inimal; therefore, displacem ent of

wild horses from the project area is expected to be limited.

4.17.2 No Action Alternative

Under the No Action Alternative, the coal lease sale would not occur, no underground m ining

operations would be conducted within the TMRT, there would be no additional developm ent in

the proposed project area (beyond the existing m ining and other industrial developm ent), and

impacts on wild horse populations would continue at present levels, with fluctuations due

primarily to weather, disease, and other natural causes.

4.17.3 Residual Impacts

The Proposed Action would result in the tem porary rem oval of vegetation from an estim ated

59 acres associated with reclam ation of subsidence areas within the TMRT and 28 acres

associated with the m ine facilities. However, once m ine operations are com pleted, reclamation

efforts would re-establish the vegetative habitat and would m itigate any long-term im pacts to

wild horse populations. There would also be the potentially unavoidable im pact to wild horses

due to possible collisions with vehicles; however, posting of speed lim its on public and BCC

roads would mitigate impacts. The Proposed Action may temporary displacement of some wild

horses from active areas of the m ine; however, displacem ent would likely be no m ore than is

currently occur with the existing surface mine operation.

4.17.4 Cumulative Impacts

Based on the disturbance calculations presented in Chapter 3, approxim ately 18,360 acres are

currently disturbed within the CIAA. This represents approxim ately 2.36% of the total area

within the CIAA. Reasonably foreseeable future actions (including the Proposed Action) within
168 Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

the CIAA would result in an additional 877 acres of disturbance (which equals 19,237 acres of

total disturbance due to existing activities, the Proposed Action, and reasonably foreseeable

future actions). This represents 0.11% of the total area within the CIAA or 2.47% based on the

total disturbance due to existing activities, the Proposed Action, and reasonably foreseeable

future actions.

Once reclam ation operations have been com pleted, disturbed surface-m ined lands would

eventually be capable of supporting pre-disturbance levels of livestock grazing uses including

wild horses. Disturbance from the Jim Bridger Power Plant and roads are part of the long-term

economic development within the CIAA and would no longer be available for wild horse habitat.

None of the current land uses within the CIAA lim its the area' s ability to support wild horse

grazing.

Therefore, cumulative impacts to wild horse populations would not be im portant because there

are no past, present, or reasonably foreseeable future actions that, when com bined with the

Proposed Action, would result in im pacts beyond those that already exist or have already been

identified and discussed in Chapter 4.0 of this EA.

4.18 WILDLIFE

4.18.1 Proposed Action

4.18.1.1 Big Game

Direct im pacts to big gam e would result from the loss of habitat due to vegetation rem oval;

displacement of wildlife due to disturbance by project-related activities; direct m ortality due to

construction-related activities; increased m ortality due to poaching and harassm ent; and an

increased likelihood of vehicle/anim al collisions due to increased traffic in the area. Due to the

depth of the m ining operations, noise from the underground m ining operations would be
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease 169

minimal; therefore, no big gam e would be expected to be displaced from within the TMRT due

to noise.

Construction and reclam ation activities would likely cause som e big gam e that currently utilize

the area--the proposed conveyor, road, and powerline ROW areas and areas within the TMRT

that would im pacted by subsidence (i.e., reclam ation operations)--to tem porarily vacate the

immediate vicinity (up to 0.5 m i or m ore) around the active area before construction and

revegetation operations have been com pleted. However, once construction activities are

completed, most of the big game animals in the area would be expected to become acclimated to

the traffic and noise along the ROW s and to return to areas located within 0.5 m i of the roads,

powerline, and conveyor. The tem porary loss of 87 acres of big gam e habitat for individual

animals due to vegetation loss would be m itigated with m easures included in the Proposed

Action to minimize surface disturbance and to ensure tim ely reclamation and revegetation of all

disturbed areas. It could take 10-20 years after reclam ation operations have been com pleted for

some of the reclaimed areas to have shrub conditions and vegetation diversity comparable to predisturbance conditions. However, once reclam ation and revegetation operations are com pleted

and suitable vegetation habitat re-established, big gam e would likely re-occupy the disturbed

ROWs and m ine areas within the TMRT. In addition, the m ine-related disturbance would be

scattered over a large area and would have little or no im pact on big gam e populations in the

area.

Pronghorn Antelope. Approxim ately 1,726 acres or 30% of the TMRT area would be located

within crucial winter/yearlong pronghorn antelope range (refer to Figure 3.12). However, a

majority of the TMRT area (70%) would be located in winter/yearlong habitat. Im pacts to

pronghorn antelope due to vegetation rem oval would be lim ited due in part to the fact that the

87 acres of project-related disturbance would occur in sm all am ounts over a large area. In

addition, only 30 acres of the disturbance would occur within crucial winter/yearlong range. The

population of pronghorn antelope within the Red Desert herd unit is currently at 93% of the

population objective for the herd unit. Therefore, there would be no impacts to the population of

pronghorn antelope within the Red Desert herd unit due to the Proposed Action.
170 Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

In accordance with W GFD recommendations, construction activities and reclam ation operations

would not be conducted on crucial winter/yearlong range from Novem ber 15 to March 30.

However, if necessary, BCC would request a waiver of the seasonal restriction stipulation from

the BLM. Depending upon specific weather cond itions at the tim e of the request, the BLM

would evaluate the request on a case-by-case ba sis and would inform BCC if the waiver can be

granted. The sm all amount of habitat disturbed and the tim ely implementation of reclam ation

and revegetation procedures that would be followed would m inimize long-term impacts to the

pronghorn antelope population.

Mule Deer and Elk. The TMRT does not contain any crucial winter m ule deer or elk range.

Once construction activities and reclam ation operations are com pleted and suitable vegetation

habitat is re-established, mule deer and elk would likely reoccupy the ROW s and areas within

the TMRT that are im pacted by subsidence. Therefore, there would be no im pacts to mule deer

or elk populations due to the Proposed Action.

4.18.1.2 Other Mammals

Impacts to other m ammals due to the Proposed Action would include direct m ortality during

construction activities and reclam ation operations, especially to those that m ay take refuge in

burrows that would be destroyed by areas of subsidence and required reclam ation and

revegetation operations, and a potential increase in m ortality from vehicle/anim al collisions.

Generally, the dispersed and relatively sm all amount of wildlife habitat physically im pacted by

the Proposed Action (estim ated at 87 acres) would lim it impacts to all wildlife species. Most

small mammal populations are relatively tolerant of hum an activity and would likely experience

reduced populations in direct proportion to the am ount of habitat rem oved. This would m ost

likely be true for species with relatively sm all hom e ranges (rodents, lagom orphs, etc.) and

would be less applicable to m ore wide-ranging species such as coyote, badgers, etc. Projectrelated impacts to sm all mammals would likely be m asked by natural variations in populations

due to weather, disease, and other natural factors. Im pacts to rare habitats (e.g., wetlands areas)

would be m inimal, and m easures included in the Proposed Action to m inimize im pacts to
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease 171

wildlife would mitigate and reduce im pacts to other animals. In addition, the tem porary loss of

habitat for other m ammals due to vegetation loss would be m itigated with measures included in

the Proposed Action to m inimize surface disturbance and to ensure tim ely reclam ation and

revegetation of all disturbed areas.

4.18.1.3 Raptors

Direct impacts to raptors include m ortality due to electrocutions and collisions with powerline

structures. Other potential indirect im pacts to nesting raptors include decreased raptor

reproductive success due to the physical disturbance of the nest or to increased hum an activities

near the nest; destruction of nest, egg, and/or young; increased predation of the eggs or young;

and impacts to hunting, foraging, and roosting habitat (National W ildlife Federation 1987). It is

unlikely that raptor populations would be im pacted by the Proposed Action; however, individual

birds may be impacted. Several raptor nests are located in the TMRT area; however, no raptor

nests were documented within the ROW areas.

Prior to the initiation of m ining operations, BCC would be required by W DEQ/LQD to

conducted raptor nest surveys for occupancy and production of the TMRT area and a 1-m i

buffer. Monitoring inform ation would be subm itted to the appropriate regulatory agencies, and

if necessary, a raptor mitigation plan would be developed and implemented with the concurrence

of the WDEQ/LQD, BLM, USFWS, and the W GFD. The raptor m itigation plan would identify

appropriate m itigation techniques described in the Raptor Mitigation Handbook (Wyoming

Cooperative Fishery and W ildlife Research Unit 1994) and the Raptor Management Techniques

Manual (National Wildlife Federation 1987). The raptor mitigation plan would protect all raptor

species from unauthorized disturbance or other activities that m ay adversely affect individual

raptors.

As described in the Proposed Action, the m ine facilities (i.e., powerline and electric substation

modifications) would be designed, constructed, operated, and m aintained in conform ance with

the National Electrical Safety Code and other applicable codes and standards, as well as
172 Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

Suggested Practices for Raptor Protection on Powerlines: The State of the Art in 1996 (APLIC

1996) and Mitigating Bird Collisions with Powerlines: The State of the Art in 1994 (APLIC

1994). Im plementation of these standards would reduce the risk of raptor electrocutions and

collisions with powerline structures.

The construction of the m ine support facilities would disturb approxim ately new 28 acres, and

approximately 59 acres m ay be disturbed as a result of reclam ation operations to repair cracks

due to subsidence. Reductions in prey species abundance are not anticipated to adversely affect

raptor populations because physical disturbance would be m inimal (87 acres total). Foraging

habitat for raptors within the proposed project area would be reduced until revegetation

successfully attracts sm all m ammals and birds that serve as the prey base for the raptors. In

addition, the tem porary loss of foraging habitat for raptors due to vegetation loss would be

mitigated with measures included in the Proposed Action to m inimize surface disturbance and to

ensure timely reclamation and revegetation of all disturbed areas.

4.18.1.4 Upland Game Birds

Direct impacts to greater sage-grouse and other upland gam e birds include loss of breeding and

nesting habitat, wintering areas, and possibly strutting grounds (leks); displacem ent due to

increased hum an activity; and collisions with vehicles and/or powerlines. Indirect im pacts

include the displacement due to noise, ground vibrations, and/or subsidence. The BLM requires

special m itigation m easures if greater sage-grouse leks are located within 0.25 m i of any

proposed surface disturbance. Typical m itigation measures utilized to reduce im pacts to greater

sage-grouse include the following:

• avoiding surface disturbance and high-profile structures (e.g., powerline

structures, etc.) within 0.25 mi of active greater sage-grouse leks;

• avoiding disturbance activities during the m ale greater sage-grouse strutting

period (March 1 to May 15) within 1.0 mi of active leks; and

• restricting surface-disturbing activities in occupied greater sage-grouse nesting

habitat within 2.0 mi of active leks during the nesting season (April 1 to July 31).
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease 173

Only approximately 1% (59 acres) within the TMRT m ay be physically disturbed as a result of

reclamation operations to repair cracks due to subsidence, and it is possible, but unlikely, that

one or more of the two greater sage-grouse leks within the TMRT would be physically im pacted

by these operations. In order to m inimize potential im pacts to greater sage-grouse within the

TMRT, reclamation operations would be conducted in accordance with standard BLM mitigation

measures described above and W DEQ/LQD requirements specified in the m ine and reclamation

permit application prepared by BCC. BLM, W DEQ/LQD, and WGFD would carefully evaluate

the need for and extent of any surface-disturbing activity that would occur within 1 m i of any

greater sage-grouse lek. Priority would be given to m inimizing any physical disturbance to

greater sage-grouse leks.

Bird/vehicle and bird/powerline collisions m ay also result in direct im pacts on greater

sage-grouse. However, the overland conveyor (which would account for m ost of the

construction-related disturbance) would not be located within 1 m i of any the greater sagegrouse leks. In addition, no new powerlines would be constructed within the TMRT near any of

the greater sage-grouse leks.

Due to the depth of underground mining operations (i.e., 200 ft to 1,000 ft below the surface) and

the limited amount of blasting, noise and/or ground vibrations at the surface within the TMRT

due to m ining operation would be m inimal compared to nearby surface coal m ining operations.

Subsidence would also occur within the longwall coal panel areas. However, there is no

documented or anecdotal evidence of im pacts of noise, ground vibration, or subsidence from

underground m ining operations on greater sage-grouse behavior (personal com munications,

February 21, 2001, with Stan Anderson, W yoming Cooperative Fisheries and W ildlife Research

Unit, University of Wyoming; April 18, 2002, with Steve Platt, WDEQ/LQD, Lander, Wyoming;

and April 18, 2002, with Bill Hogg, W DEQ/LQD, Cheyenne, Wyoming). Therefore, the extent,

if any, of potential displacem ent of greater sage -grouse due to the Proposed Action within the

TMRT is unknown. However, since only a lim ited portion of the TMRT m ay experience

subsidence at any one tim e, it is likely that any greater sage-grouse that m ight be affected by

indirect im pacts would tem porarily relocate and utilize adjacent suitable habitats (e.g., leks,
174 Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

nesting areas, etc.) (Rem ington and Braun 1991; Phillips et al. 1985). It is also be possible that

impacted greater sage-grouse would be tem porarily displaced from traditional important habitats

and would not breed during those seasons that the habitats would be unsuitable. If displacem ent

occurs, greater sage-grouse would be expected to eventually recolonize any suitable habitats that

might have been tem porarily abandoned. Theref ore, the Proposed Action would not have any

permanent long-term impacts on greater sage-grouse.

In addition, BCC would continue to m onitor all greater sage-grouse leks within the TMRT and a

2-mi buffer. Annual m onitoring of greater sage-grouse leks would docum ent direct impacts due

to physical disturbance and indirect im pacts due to noise, ground vibration, and/or subsidence.

Results of this monitoring would be reported annually to WDEQ/LQD, WGFD, and BLM.

Mourning dove populations would likely not be im pacted by the Proposed Action because of

their inherent m obility and the availability of other suitable habitats on undisturbed lands

adjacent to the TMRT area.

4.18.1.5 Other Birds

Other birds m ay be adversely affected by increased hum an activity under the Proposed Action.

The prim ary im pacts would probably occur in direct proportion to the am ount of a species'

habitat that would be temporarily disturbed. Some increased mortality would be likely from bird

collisions as a result of increased vehicle traffic and collisions with powerline structures. Total

new disturbance associated with the Proposed Action would be approxim ately 87 acres, and

measures already described above to m itigate surface disturbances and project-related activities

would m inimize im pacts to other bird species as well. Im pacts to waterfowl and shorebirds

would be minimal because few wetland areas of suitable habitat would be affected and because

these birds would temporarily move to adjacent habitats undisturbed by project-related activities.

Songbirds would also likely m ove to other suitable adjacent habitats. As described in the

Proposed Action, the associated powerline would be designed, constructed, operated, and

maintained in conformance with the National Electrical Safety Code and other applicable codes
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease 175

and standards, as well as Suggested Practices for Raptor Protection on Powerlines: The State of

the Art in 1996 (APLIC 1996) and Mitigating Bird Collisions with Powerlines: The State of the

Art in 1994 (APLIC 1994). Im plementation of these standards would reduce the risk of bird

electrocutions and collisions with powerline structures.

4.18.1.6 Amphibians, Reptiles, and Fish

Few if any amphibians or reptiles are found within the TMRT or associated ROW areas, and no

fish are found within these areas. Potential adverse im pacts to amphibians, reptiles, and fish (if

they even occur in the area) as a result of the Proposed Action include direct mortality as a result

of surface disturbance, loss of suitable habitat, and displacem ent of individuals from the area.

Impacts to am phibians and reptiles due to th e Proposed Action likely would occur in direct

proportion to the amount of suitable habitat disturbed. No impacts to fish would be expected due

to the im plementation of the Proposed Action. Mitigation measures described in the Proposed

Action to minimize surface disturbance and to ensure timely reclamation and stabilization would

minimize project-related impacts to amphibians and reptiles.

4.18.2 No Action Alternative

Under the No Action Alternative, the coal lease sale would not occur, no underground m ining

operations would be conducted within the TMRT, there would be no additional developm ent in

the proposed project area (beyond the existing m ining and other industrial developm ent), and

impacts on wildlife populations would continue at present levels, with fluctuations due primarily

to weather, disease, and other natural causes.

4.18.3 Residual Impacts

The Proposed Action would result in the tem porary loss of approximately 87 acres of vegetation

and wildlife habitat. Som e species such as big gam e, large m ammals, upland gam e birds, and

raptors would be tem porarily displaced and som e individual wildlife species (e.g., sm all
176 Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

mammals, sm all birds, am phibian or reptile species) m ay be destroyed by construction and

reclamation operations, especially those that may take refuge in burrows. However, once mining

operations are com pleted, reclam ation efforts would re-establish the vegetative habitat and

would m itigate any long-term im pacts to all wildlife populations. There would also be a

potential increase in mortality of wildlife from vehicle/animal collisions.

Two greater sage-grouse leks located within the TMRT m ay be directly and/or indirectly

impacted by the Proposed Action. However, im plementation of appropriate BLM and

WDEQ/LQD monitoring and mitigation measures would document and reduce potential impacts

to greater sage-grouse populations.

While the BCC has com mitted to constructing powerline structures in accordance with

applicable raptor protection design standards, it is possible but unlikely that individual raptors or

other birds that utilize the project area m ay be killed or injured as a result of electrocution or

collision with powerline structures.

4.18.4 Cumulative Impacts

Pronghorn Antelope. Approximately 32,983 acres (or 1.52%) of the entire CIAA for pronghorn

antelope is currently disturbed (refer to Table 4.1). Of that total, approxim ately 14,101 acres (or

5.17%) of crucial winter/yearlong range for pronghorn antelope within the CIAA is currently

disturbed by roads, m ajor industrial facilities, m inor industrial facilities, wells, and associated

facilities. Total proposed disturbance due to the Proposed Action would account for an

additional 87 acres (0.004% of the total CIAA), and reasonably foreseeable future actions would

account for an additional 809 acres (0.04% of the total CIAA). Approxim ately 630 acres of

disturbance would be associated with wells and related facilities, and 179 acres would be

associated with minor industrial facilities. Approximately 30 acres of the disturbance associated

with the Proposed Action would occur with crucial winter/yearlong range for pronghorn

antelope. This represents 0.01% of the entire crucial winter/yearlong range within the CIAA.
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease 177

Table 4.1 Acres of Disturbance by CIAA for Big Game Species.

Total Existing

Disturbance

(acres) (% of unit)

Disturbance Due to

Proposed Action

(acres) (% of unit)

Disturbance Due to

Reasonably Foreseeable

Future Actions

(acres) (% of unit)

Total Existing, Proposed

Action, and Reasonably

Foreseeable Future Actions

(acres) (% of unit)

Pronghorn Antelope

CIAA (2,167,479 acres) 32,983 (1.52%) 87 (0.004%) 809 (0.04%) 33,879 (1.56%)

Crucial winter/ yearlong

(272,512 acres)

14,101 (5.17%) 30 (0.01%) 176 (0.06%) 14,307 (5.25%)

Mule Deer

CIAA (2,553,133 acres) 44,168 (1.73%) 87 (0.003% 2,365 (0.09%) 46,620 (1.83%)

Crucial winter/ yearlong

(205,242 acres)

3,503 (1.71%) 0 (0.00%) 25 (0.01%) 3,528 (1.72%)

Elk

CIAA (2,649,306 acres) 43,356 (1.64%) 87 (0.003%) 2,372 (0.09%) 45,815 (1.73%)

Crucial winter/yearlong

(279,791 acres)

1,873 (0.67%) 15 (0.005%) 98 (0.035%) 1,986 (0.71%)

An additional 176 acres of reasonably foreseeab le future actions would occur in crucial

winter/yearlong range for pronghorn antelope. This represents 0.06% of the entire crucial

winter/yearlong range within the CIAA.

Total existing, Proposed Action, and reasonably foreseeable future actions disturbance within the

CIAA would be approxim ately 33,879 acres (or 1.56% of the total CIAA). Approxim ately

14,307 acres of existing, Proposed Action, and reasonably foreseeable future actions disturbance

would occur within pronghorn antelope crucial winter/yearlong range. This represents 5.25% of

the total pronghorn crucial winter/yearlong range in the CIAA.

Under the Proposed Action, approxim ately 87 acres would be disturbed by m ine facilities and

reclamation operations from the repair of surface cracks due to subsidence. Once reclam ation

operations have been com pleted, disturbed lands would eventually be capable of supporting

predisturbance levels of wildlife uses. In addition, the 5-year (1997-2001) average population

for the pronghorn antelope population in the CIAA is approxim ately 93% of the herd unit
178 Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

objectives (W GFD 2003). Despite these values, fawn production has been below production

objectives and is m ost likely a result of drought conditions. Based on this inform ation, humanrelated activities and the condition of im portant range types within the CIAA does not appear to

be having a limiting affect or adverse impact on the population of pronghorn antelope within the

CIAA.

Disturbance from the Jim Bridger Power Plant, Jim Bridger Mine, Leucite Hills Mine, roads, and

wells and associated facilities are part of the long-term economic development within the CIAA

and would not be available for wildlife habitat until the specific facility is rem oved and the land

revegetated. None of the current land uses within the CIAA appear to lim it the area's ability to

support pronghorn antelope populations. Therefore, cum ulative impacts to pronghorn antelope

would not be im portant because there are no past, present, or reasonably foreseeable future

actions that, when com bined with the Proposed Action, would result in im pacts beyond those

that already exist or have already been identified and discussed in Chapter 4.0 of this EA.

Mule Deer. Approxim ately 44,168 acres (or 1.73%) of the entire CIAA for m ule deer is

currently disturbed (refer to Table 4.1). Of that total, approxim ately 3,503 acres (or 1.71%) of

crucial winter/yearlong range for m ule deer within the CIAA is currently disturbed by roads,

major industrial facilities, m inor industrial fac ilities, wells, and associated facilities. Total

proposed disturbance due to the Proposed Action would account for an additional 87 acres

(0.003% of the total CIAA), and reasonably foreseeable future actions would account for an

additional 2,365 acres (0.09% of the total CIAA). Approxim ately 1,875 acres of disturbance

would be associated with wells and related facilities, 490 acres would be associated with m inor

industrial facilities. None of the disturbance associated with the Proposed Action would occur

with crucial winter/yearlong range for m ule deer. An additional 25 acres of disturbance due to

reasonably foreseeable future actions would occur in crucial winter/yearlong range for m ule

deer. This represents 0.01% of the entire crucial winter/yearlong range within the CIAA.

Total existing, Proposed Action, and reasonably foreseeable future actions disturbance within the

CIAA would be approxim ately 46,620 acres (or 1.83% of the total CIAA). Approxim ately
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease 179

3,528 acres of existing, Proposed Action, and reasonably foreseeable future actions disturbance

would occur within m ule deer crucial winter/yearlong range. This represents 1.72% of the total

mule deer crucial winter/yearlong range in the CIAA.

Under the Proposed Action, approxim ately 87 acres would be disturbed by m ine facilities and

reclamation operations from the repair of surface cracks due to subsidence. Once reclam ation

operations have been com pleted, disturbed lands would eventually be capable of supporting

predisturbance levels of wildlife uses. The 5-year (1997-2001) average population for the mule

deer population in the CIAA is approximately 78% of the herd unit objectives. According to the

WGFD, the herd unit area primarily contains marginal desert habitat for mule deer; however, the

herd unit population has grown slowly but steadily since 1993. In 2002, the m ule deer

population declined over 10% presum ably due to drought-induced m ortality to fawns (W GFD

2003). Based on this inform ation, hum an-related activities and the disturbance of crucial

winter/yearlong range within the CIAA does not appear to be having a lim iting or adverse

impact on the population of mule deer within the CIAA.

Disturbance from the Jim Bridger Power Plant, Jim Bridger Mine, Leucite Hills Mine, roads, and

wells and associated facilities are part of the long-term economic development within the CIAA

and would not be available for wildlife habitat until the specific facility is rem oved and the land

revegetated. None of the current land uses within the CIAA appear to lim it the area's ability to

support mule deer populations. Therefore, cum ulative impacts to pronghorn antelope would not

be im portant because there are no past, present, or reasonably foreseeable future actions that,

when com bined with the Proposed Action, would result in im pacts beyond those that already

exist or have already been identified and discussed in Chapter 4.0 of this EA.

Elk. Approxim ately 43,356 acres (or 1.64%) of the entire CIAA for elk is currently disturbed

(refer to Table 4.1). Of that total, approxim ately 1,873 acres (or 0.67%) of crucial

winter/yearlong range for elk within the CIAA is currently disturbed by roads, m ajor industrial
180 Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

facilities, minor industrial facilities, wells and associated facilities. Total disturbance due to the

Proposed Action would account for an additional 87 acres (0.003% of the total CIAA) and

reasonably foreseeable future actions would account for an additional 2,372 acres (0.09% of the

total CIAA). Approxim ately 1,880 acres of distur bance would be associated with wells and

related facilities, and 492 acres would be associated with m inor industrial facilities.

Approximately 15 acres of the disturbance associated with the Proposed Action would occur

with crucial winter/yearlong range for elk. This represents 0.005% of the entire crucial

winter/yearlong range within the CIAA. An additional 98 acres of reasonably foreseeable future

actions would occur in crucial winter/yearlong range for elk. This represents 0.035% of the

entire crucial winter/yearlong range within the CIAA.

Total existing, Proposed Action, and reasonably foreseeable future actions disturbance within the

CIAA would be approxim ately 45,815 acres (or 1.73% of the total CIAA). Approxim ately

1,986 acres of existing, Proposed Action, and reasonably foreseeable future actions disturbance

would occur within elk crucial winter/yearlong range. This represents 0.71% of the total elk

crucial winter/yearlong range in the CIAA.

Under the Proposed Action, approxim ately 87 acres would be disturbed by m ine facilities and

reclamation operations from the repair of surface cracks due to subsidence. Once reclam ation

operations have been com pleted, disturbed lands would eventually be capable of supporting

predisturbance levels of wildlife uses. In addition, the 5-year (1997-2001) average population

for the elk population in the CIAA is approxim ately 138% of the herd unit objectives (W GFD

2003). Based on this inform ation, human-related activities and the condition of im portant range

types within the CIAA does not appear to be having a lim iting affect or adverse im pact on the

population of elk within the CIAA.

Disturbance from the Jim Bridger Power Plant, Jim Bridger Mine, Leucite Hills Mine, roads, and

wells and associated facilities are part of the long-term economic development within the CIAA

and would not be available for wildlife habitat until the specific facility is rem oved and the land

revegetated. None of the current land uses within the CIAA appears to lim it the area's ability to
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease 181

support elk populations. Therefore, cum ulative impacts to elk would not be im portant because

there are no past, present, or reasonably foreseeable future actions that, when com bined with the

Proposed Action, would result in im pacts beyond those that already exist or have already been

identified and discussed in Chapter 4.0 of this EA.

Other Mam mals. W ithin the CIAA, approxim ately 3,537 acres (11.65% of the CIAA) are

currently disturbed by m ajor facilities, m inor industrial facilities, and roads. Total existing,

Proposed Action, and reasonably foreseeable future actions disturbance in the CIAA is estimated

at 3,646 acres (12.01% of the CIAA). Disturbance from the m ajor industrial facilities, m inor

industrial facilities, and roads are part of the long-term economic development within the CIAA.

None of the current land uses within the CIAA lim its the area' s ability to support various

mammal populations. As described above, the cum ulative im pacts of the Proposed Action

would be sim ilar to the potential im pacts of the Proposed Action and would result in lim ited

impacts to populations of other m ammal species . Therefore, cum ulative im pacts to other

mammals would not be im portant because there are no past, present, or reasonably foreseeable

future actions that, when com bined with the Proposed Action, would result in im pacts beyond

those that already exist or have already been identified and discussed in Chapter 4.0 of this EA.

Raptors. The CIAA contains 31 known raptor nests. Approxi mately 3,536 acres (11.65% of the

CIAA) is currently disturbed by m ajor industrial facilities, m inor industrial facilities, and roads

within the CIAA. Total existing, Proposed Action, and reasonably foreseeable future actions

disturbance in the CIAA is estimated at 3,646 acres (12.01% of the CIAA). Prior to the initiation

of any federal action (including the Proposed Action and reasonably foreseeable future actions),

the company undertaking the action would be required to docum ent and assess potential impacts

to raptors that are nesting within 1-m i of th e proposed project area and to undertake m itigation

measures to protect all nesting raptors. In addition, m itigation m easures would include

requirements to m inimize disturbance to raptor ne sting habitat (i.e., rock outcrops, bluffs, etc.).

These raptor m itigation m easures would protect all nesting raptor species from unauthorized

disturbance or other activities that may adversely affect individual raptors.
182 Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

Disturbance from the major industrial facilities, minor industrial facilities, and roads are part of

the long-term economic development within the CIAA. None of the current land uses within the

CIAA lim its the area' s ability to support various nesting raptors. In addition, m itigation

measures would minimize potential impacts to nesting raptors. Therefore, cumulative impacts to

raptors would not be im portant because there are no past, present, or reasonably foreseeable

future actions that, when com bined with the Proposed Action, would result in im pacts beyond

those that already exist or have already been identified and discussed in Chapter 4.0 of this EA.

Upland Gam e Birds. The CIAA contains 43 known greater sage-grouse leks (W GFD 2003).

However, only 36 were m onitored in 2003 and of those only 16 (44% of the m onitored leks)

contained birds in 2003 (W GFD Green River District n.d.). W ithin the CIAA, approxim ately

20,899 acres (2.21% of the CIAA) is currently disturbed by m ajor industrial facilities, m inor

industrial facilities, roads, and wells and associated facilities. Total existing, Proposed Action,

and reasonably foreseeable future actions disturbance in the CIAA is estim ated at 21,151 acres

(2.23% of the CIAA), an increase of 252 acres. The Proposed Action would account for

87 acres, wells and associated facilities would account for 115 acres, and other m inor industrial

facilities would account for an additional 50 acres of proposed disturbance. Prior to the

initiation of any federal action (including the Proposed Action and reasonably foreseeable future

actions), the company undertaking the action would be required to document and assess potential

impacts to greater sage-grouse leks that are located within 2 m i of the proposed project area and

to undertake m itigation m easures to protect breeding greater sage-grouse. These m itigation

measures would protect all breeding greater sage-grouse from unauthorized disturbance or other

activities that may adversely affect individual greater sage-grouse.

Disturbance from the major industrial facilities, minor industrial facilities, and roads are part of

the long-term economic development within the CIAA. None of the current land uses within the

CIAA lim its the area' s ability to support various upland gam e bird species. In addition,

mitigation measures would minimize potential impacts to nesting raptors. Therefore, cumulative

impacts to raptors would not be im portant b ecause there are no past, present, or reasonably

foreseeable future actions that, when com bined with the Proposed Action, would result in
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease 183

impacts beyond those that already exist or have already been identified and discussed in

Chapter 4.0 of this EA.

Other Birds. W ithin the CIAA, approxim ately 6,308 acres (8.07% of the CIAA) is currently

disturbed by m ajor facilities, m inor industrial facilities, and roads. Total existing, Proposed

Action, and reasonably foreseeable future actions disturbance in the CIAA is estim ated at

6,417 acres (8.21% of the CIAA). Disturbance from the m ajor industrial facilities, m inor

industrial facilities, and roads are part of the long-term economic development within the CIAA.

None of the current land uses within the CIAA limits the area' s ability to support various other

bird species. As described above, the cum ulative im pacts of the Proposed Action would be

similar to the potential im pacts of the Proposed Action and would result in lim ited impacts to

populations of other birds. Therefore, cum ulative impacts to other birds would not be im portant

because there are no past, present, or reasonably foreseeable future actions that, when com bined

with the Proposed Action, would result in im pacts beyond those that already exist or have

already been identified and discussed in Chapter 4.0 of this EA.

Amphibians, Reptiles, and Fish. W ithin the CIAA, approxim ately 6,308 acres (8.07% of the

CIAA) of existing disturbances occur as major industrial facilities, minor industrial facilities, and

roads. Total existing, Proposed Action, and reasonably foreseeable future actions disturbance in

the CIAA is estim ated at 6,417 acres (8.21% of the CIAA). Under the Proposed Action,

approximately 87 acres would be disturbed by m ine facilities and reclam ation operations from

the repair of surface cracks due to subsidence. Once reclam ation operations have been

completed, disturbed surface-m ined lands would eventually be capable of supporting

predisturbance levels of wildlife uses. Disturbance from the Jim Bridger Power Plant, Jim

Bridger Mine, Leucite Hills Mine, and roads are part of the long-term economic development

within the CIAA and would no longer be available for wildlife habitat. None of the current land

uses within the CIAA limits the area's ability to support various wildlife populations.

Therefore, cumulative impacts to am phibians, reptiles, or fish would not be im portant because

there are no past, present, or reasonable foreseeable future actions that, when com bined with the
184 Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

Proposed Action, would result in im pacts beyond those that already exist or have already been

identified and discussed in Chapter 4.0 of this EA.

4.19 MITIGATION MEASURES

Mitigation measures identified in this section have been sum marized from materials presented in

Chapter 2 and Appendix A. Mitigation m easures were developed by BCC during the project

planning process and NEPA scoping process. M itigation measures describe how project-related

activities wold be im plemented to ensure com pliance with federal, state, and local laws and

regulations and resource m anagement goals and objectives for the project area. Under the

Proposed Action, BCC (if the successful bidder) would implement all of the mitigation measures

identified in this section.

Permitting and other Adm inistrative Requirem ents. Under the Proposed Action, BCC (if the

successful bidder) would collect and analyze very detailed baseline environm ental information

for the TMRT and associated ROW areas. The m ine permit amendment application would be

prepared in accordance with W DEQ/LQD rules, regulations, and guidelines. The application

would also include site-specific m itigation m easures, as well as detailed calculations for the

reclamation perform ance bond. The am ount of the reclam ation perform ance bond would be

reviewed and, if appropriate, approved by W DEQ/LQD to ensure that the m ine operator (i.e.,

BCC) com plies with all the requirem ents of the Wyoming Environmental Quality Act and the

WDEQ/LQD permit and that reclamation requirements would be met.

Under W DEQ/LQD perm itting regulations, the public would be provided with several

opportunities to comment on the m ine and reclamation permit amendment application prior to a

final decision on the permit application by WDEQ/LQD.

BCC (if the successful bidder) would also prepare all necessary inform ation and would apply for

any required perm its/approvals/plans including but not lim ited to those presented in Table 1.1.

Mining operations would not begin within the TMRT until all required perm its/approvals are
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease 185

obtained from the appropriate regulatory agencies. All subsequent construction, m ining, and

reclamation operations and activities would be conducted in accordance with the applicable

permits, approvals, plans, laws, regulations, stipulations, and guidelines.

BCC (if the successful bidder) would also prepare a detailed R2P2 for BLM. The R2P2 would

describe how the proposed operation would m eet MLA requirem ents for due diligent

development, production, resource recovery and protection (i.e., efficient recovery of the federal

coal reserves), continued operation, m aximum economic recovery, and the rules prom ulgated in

Title 43 C.F.R. Part 3480 for the LOM. MLA requires that, before conducting any federal coal

development or m ining operations on federal coal lease, the operator m ust subm it an R2P2

within 3 years of the effective date of the leas e. The lessee is obligated to m ine the lease

according to the approved R2P2, respective lease terms, and appropriate rules and regulations.

Air Quality and Noise. BCC (if the successful bidder) would conduct mining operations and use

and maintain all equipment according to manufacturers recommendations to minimize air quality

emissions and lim it noise. This would include, for exam ple, appropriate use of water or dust

suppressant spray and use of equipm ent covers, shields, or m ufflers. In addition, all unpaved

roads utilized by BCC would be properly m aintained and treated with water or other suitable

dust suppressant chemical to minimize particulate emissions.

Cultural Resources. In order to protect and m itigate potential im pacts to NRHP-eligible sites

(including the Point of Rocks to South Pass wagon road) within the TMRT area, BCC would

enter into a cultural resource program matic agreement with BLM, OSMRE, W DEQ/LQD, and

Wyoming State Historic Preservation Officer. This agreem ent would identify specific survey,

testing, protection, and m itigation measures that would be im plemented by BCC to address and

protect NRHP-eligible historic and prehistoric sites within the TMRT area. The program matic

agreement would dem onstrate com pliance with all applicable cultural resource laws and

regulations.
186 Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

Under the Proposed Action, BLM Class III surveys would be conducted on those areas that are

located outside of the TMRT, have not been previously surveyed, and would be physically

disturbed by the construction activities. All historic and prehistoric resources that are

potentially eligible for the NHRP that could be adversely affected by the Proposed Action would

be protected from disturbance or would be appropri ately m itigated if the site could not be

avoided. W here necessary and appropriate, site-specific m itigation m easures would be

developed and im plemented in accordance with the current cultural resource protection plan

contained in BCC’s approved WDEQ/LQD permit. The site-specific mitigation measures would

also be developed and im plemented with the concurrence of the BLM, OSM, W DEQ/LDQ, and

the Wyoming State Historic Preservation Officer.

The Proposed Action, am ong other things, includes a com mitment that if any cultural resources

are discovered during construction or reclam ation operations, work in the area of the discovery

would be halted and the appropriate regulatory agency would be notified and appropriate

treatment plans im plemented. BCC em ployees would also be instructed that they would be

working on both private and public land and not to search for, scavenge, or rem ove any cultural

resources found while working on the project.

Geology and Geologic Hazards. BCC would be res ponsible for repairing and revegetating all

areas affected by disturbance related to the repair of surface cracks due to subsidence within the

TMRT.

Health and Safety (Transportation). Mine entrance signs would be posted on all m ajor roads

leading on to the TMRT area, and m ine em ployees would be instructed to watch for

unauthorized personnel and to notify m ine management if unauthorized personnel are observed

within the TMRT. In addition, BCC would also m aintain appropriate speed lim it signs and

instruct all employees to not exceed posted speed limits.

Land Resource and Use. No additional mitigation measures would be necessary.
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease 187

Minerals (Solid and Fluid). BCC (if the successful bidder) would negotiate in good faith with

other m ineral lessees to resolve any developm ent conflicts and achieve the three principal

management goals specified in BLM Instruction Memorandum No. 2000-081.

Native American Religious Concerns. If sites or localities of native Am erican religious concern

are identified, they would taken into consideration by BLM and would be addressed in

accordance with applicable rules, regulations, and policies.

Rangeland and Livestock Grazing. To m itigate potential im pacts to livestock grazing, BCC

would ensure the tim ely repair and revegetation of all areas directly affected by construction

activities and subsidence-related disturbance within the project area.

Recreation. To m itigate potential im pacts to th e individuals using the TMRT areas, BCC (as

directed by W DEQ/LQD) would ensure the tim ely repair of all m ajor subsidence-related

disturbance.

Socioeconomics. No additional mitigation measures would be necessary.

Soil Resources. To m itigate impacts to soils resources, BCC (if the successful bidder) would

ensure the proper construction of topsoil stockpiles (including installation of toe ditches and

temporary reclamation), and implementation of alternate sediment control measures. In addition,

BCC would ensure the successful im plementation of the reclam ation plan for the facility

construction areas and subsidence repair areas within the project area.

Threatened, Endangered, Candidate, Proposed, and Sensitive Species. To m itigate impacts to

bald eagles and all raptor species, BCC (if the successful bidder) would ensure that all the

powerlines would be designed, constructed, operated, and m aintained in conform ance with the

National Electrical Safety Code and other applicable codes and standards, as well as Suggested

Practices for Raptor Protection on Powerlines: The State of the Art in 1996 (APLIC 1996) and

Mitigating Bird Collisions with Powerlines: The State of the Art in 1994 (APLIC 1994). BCC
188 Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

would also ensure timely the repair and revegetation of all areas directly affected by construction

activities and subsidence-related disturbance within the project area.

Vegetation (including Invasive Species). To m itigate potential im pacts to vegetation, BCC

would be responsible for reclaim ing and revegetating all area affected by construction activities

and subsidence-related disturbance within the project area in accordance with the W DEQ/LQDapproved permit and applicable rules and regulations.

Wastes (Hazarous and Solid). BCC (if the successful bidder) would be responsible for ensuring

that all hazardous substances that are released (leaks, spills, etc.) that m ay no longer be used for

its original purpose, would be treated as a hazardous waste in accordance with state and federal

regulations. Any release of hazardous substances in excess of reportable quantities, established

in Title 40 C.F.R. Part 117, would be reported as required by CERCLA, as amended. If a release

of a reportable quantity of any hazardous substances occurs, a report would be furnished to

WDEQ and all other appropriate federal and state agencies. Prior to construction of any

facilities associated with the Proposed Action, inventories of hazardous chem ical categories

pursuant to Section 312 of the SARA, as am ended, would be updated. All nonhazardous solid

wastes would also be disposed of in accorda nce with appropriate local, state, and federal

regulations. BCC would also com ply with all applicable planning and em ergency procedures

regarding spill prevention, reporting, and cleanup required by local, state, and federal laws and

regulations should an accident occur.

Water Resources. Mitigation of short-term im pacts to surface water runoff would be

accomplished by im plementation of alternate sedim ent control m easures required by the

WDEQ/LQD and described in the m ine plan portion of the Proposed Action. In addition,

mitigation of long-term impacts to surface water runoff would be accom plished by successful

implementation of the reclam ation plan described in the Proposed Action. Reclam ation and

revegetation procedures would be designed to reduce the susceptibility of disturbed areas to soil

erosion in both the short-term and for the life of the project. In addition, excess m ine water not

needed for dust suppression would be pumped into an existing WDEQ/LQD- and WDEQ/WQD-
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease 189

approved holding pond where the water would be m onitored and discharged into the Deadm an

Wash drainage channel after it m eets NPDES discharge standards. This activity would be

conducted as part of ongoing mine dewatering operations conducted at the Jim Bridger Mine and

in accordance with BCC’s existing NPDES discharge perm it issued by W DEQ/WQD. BCC

would also implement all necessary and appropria te wetland reclamation measures for this area

as directed by WDEQ/LQD and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

Wild Horses. To m itigate potential im pacts to wild horses, BCC would be responsible for

reclaiming and revegetating all area affected by construction activities and subsidence-related

disturbance within the project area in acco rdance with the W DEQ/LQD-approved perm it and

applicable rules and regulations.

Wildlife. To mitigate potential impacts to wildlife, BCC would be responsible for reclaiming and

revegetating all area affected by construction activities and subsidence-related disturbance

within the project area in accordance with the W DEQ/LQD-approved perm it and applicable

rules and regulations. BCC (as directed by the BLM) would also im plement appropriate

seasonal construction restriction for wintering pronghorn antelope (i.e., within crucial winter

range), nesting raptors, and breeding greater sage-grouse.

4.20 IRREVERSIBLE AND IRRETRIEVABLE COMMITMENT OF RESOURCES

An irreversible and irretrievable commitment of resources is defined as a permanent reduction or

loss of a resource that, once lost, cannot be regained. The prim ary irreversible and irretrievable

commitment of resources due to the Proposed Action would be the rem oval and use of the coal

reserves within the Deadm an coal zone of the TMRT, groundwater used during m ining, and the

energy used to extract the coal. Other irreversible and irretrievable com mitments of resources

would also include soil lost through wind and water erosion; inadvertent or accidental

destruction of cultural resources; loss of anim als due to m ortality during topsoil salvage

operations or by collisions with vehicles; and labor and m aterials expended during the m ining

and reclamation activities associated with the Proposed Action.
190 Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

4.21 SHORT-TERM USE OF THE ENVIRONMENT VERSUS LONG-TERM

PRODUCTIVITY

For purposes of this EA, short-term use of the environment is that use during the life of the

project, whereas long-term productivity refers to the period of tim e after the project has been

completed and the area is com pletely revegetated to prem ining conditions. Short-term use of

environment would not affect the long-term productivity of the proposed project area. Only

approximately 1.5% of the proposed TMRT area and ROW areas would be physically disturbed

by the Proposed Action. After the Proposed Action is com pleted and all disturbed areas have

been reclaimed, the same resources that were present prior to the project would be available, and

reclamation efforts would re-establish the vegetation habitat and would m itigate any long-term

impacts to the environm ent, except for the unde rground coal that would be rem oved. However,

it may take 10-20 years after the reclam ation and revegetation efforts have been com pleted for

the disturbed reclaim ed areas to have vegetation conditions and biodiversity com parable to

premining conditions and m uch longer for groundw ater aquifers to becom e re-established.

However, reclamation would provide conditions to support pre-m ining wildlife, livestock, and

recreation resources. It m ay also take m ore than 100 years for groundwater resources in fully

recharge the aquifer zone within the Deadm an Wash coal zone. The use of the TMRT area and

associated ROW areas during the life of the project would not preclude some ongoing uses of the

area (e.g., livestock grazing, fluid m ineral development, etc.) and the subsequent long-term use

of the area for any purpose for which it was suitable prior to the project.
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease 191

5.0 RECORD OF PERSONS, GROUPS, AND

GOVERNMENTAL AGENCIES CONTACTED

Table 5.1 Record of Persons, Groups, and Governmental Agencies Contacted.1

Company/Agency Individual Discipline/Position

PacifiCorp Scott Child Manager of Lands and Regulatory

Affairs

Jerry Maio Planning Engineer

Bridger Coal Company Norm Hargis Manager of Environmental Affairs

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Wyoming

Regulatory Office

Matthew A.

Bilodeau

Program Manager

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Wyoming Office Kathleen Erwin Staff Biologist

State of Wyoming, Wyoming Business Council John Robitaille WBC Minerals, Energy, and

Transportation Division

Wyoming Department of Parks and Cultural

Resources

Judy Wolf Deputy State Historic Preservation

Office

Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality Kathy Brown Solid and Hazardous Waste Division

John Wagner Land Quality Division

Amy Boil Land Quality Division

Bill Hogg Land Quality Division

Steve Platt Land Quality Division

Wyoming Game and Fish Department

Cheyenne Bill Wichers Deputy Director

Green River Rob Keith Biologist

Wyoming Office of Federal Land Policy Tracy Williams Planning Consultant

Wyoming State Geological Survey James Case Staff Geologist - Geologic Hazards

Wyoming Natural Diversity Database Rebekah Smith Data and Biological Assistant

1 Additional individuals, groups, and agencies were contacted during scoping.
192 Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

Table 5.2 List of Preparers.

Organization Name EA Responsibility

TRC Mariah Associates Inc. Scott Kamber Project Management, EA Preparation - Biological and

Physical Resources, and Quality Control

Jan Hart EA Preparation - Biological and Physical Resource

Marcus Grant EA Preparation - Cultural Resources

Susan Connell EA Preparation - Air Quality Resource

Roger Schoumacher EA Preparation - Quality Assurance

Genial DeCastro Document Production/Quality Control

Tamara Linse Technical Editing, Document Production

Suzanne Luhr Drafting

Table 5.3 List of Contributors and Reviewers.

Organization Name EA Responsibility

Bureau of Land Management, Interdisciplinary Team

Rock Springs Field Office Teri Deakins Environmental Protection Specialist, Project Lead

Ted Murphy Acting Field Manager, Minerals & Lands

Jeff Clawson Mining Engineer

Jim Procarione Mining Engineer

Steve Wigg Geologist

George Schoenfeld Surface Compliance

Dennis Doncaster Hydrologist

Kevin Lloyd Range Conservationist/Wild Horse Specialist

Jo Foster Recreation/Visual Resource Specialist

Terry Del Bene Cultural Resources Specialist

Jim Dunder Wildlife and T&E Specialist

Jim Glennon Botanist

Wyoming State Office Darwin McGarry Geologist, Reservoir Management Group

Janet Kurman Environmental Protection Specialist

Julie Weaver Land Law Examiner

Phil Perlewitz Supervisory Mining Engineer

Robert Janssen Regional Coal Coordinator

Office of Surface Mining

Reclamation and Enforcement

Floyd McMullen EA Project Manager
Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease 193

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Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease 195

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Draft EA for Ten Mile Rim Coal Lease

APPENDIX A:

STANDARD COAL LEASE FORM

AND SPECIAL LEASE STIPULATIONS
Standard Coal Lease Form
See attached special stipulations.

SPECIAL STIPULATIONS

In addition to observing the general obligations and standa rds of perform ance set out in

the current regulations, the lessee shall com ply with and be bound by the following

special stipulations.

These stipulations are also im posed upon the lessee’s agents and em ployees. The failure

or refusal of any of these persons to com ply with these stipulations sh all be deem ed a

failure of the lessee to com ply with the term s of the lease. Th e lessee shall require his

agents, contractors and subcontractors involved in activities con cerning th is lease to

include these stipulations in the contracts between and am ong them. These stipulations

may be revised or amended, in writing, by the mutual consent of the lessor and the lessee

at any time to adjust to changed conditions or to correct an oversight.

(a) CULTURAL RESOURCES

(1) Before undertaking any activities that m ay disturb the su rface of the leased

lands, the lessee shall conduct a cultural resource intensive field inventory in a

manner specified by the Autho rized Officer of the BLM or of the surface

managing agency, if different, on portions of the m ine plan area and ad jacent

areas, o r explo ration plan area, that m ay be adversely affected by lease-related

activities and which were not previously inventoried at such a level of intensity.

The inventory shall be conducted by a qualified professional cultural resource

specialist (i.e., archeologist, historian, his torical arch itect, as approp riate),

approved by the Authorized Officer of the surface m anaging agency (BLM, if the

surface is p rivately owned), and a report of the inven tory and recomm endations

for protecting any cultural resources identified shall be submitted to the Assistant

Director of the W estern Support Center of the Office of Surface Mining, the

Authorized Office of the BLM, if activ ities are as sociated with coal explo ration

outside an approved m ining permit area (h ereinafter called Authorized Officer),

and the Authorized Officer of the su rface m anaging agency, if different. The

lessee shall undertake m easures, in acco rdance with in structions from the

Assistant Director, or Authorized Officer, to p rotect cu ltural resources on the

leased lands. The lessee shall not commence the surface disturbing activities until

permission to proceed is given by the Assistant Director or Authorized Officer.

(2) The lessee shall protect all cultural properties that have been determined

eligible to the National Regis ter of Histo ric P laces within the lease area from

lease-related activities until the cultura l resource m itigation m easures can be

implemented as part of an approved m ining and reclam ation or exploration plan

unless modified by mutual agreement in consultation with the SHPO.

(3) The cost of conducting the invent ory, preparing reports, and carrying out

mitigation measures shall be borne by the lessee.
(4) If cultural resources are discovered during operations under this lease, the

lessee shall imm ediately bring them to th e attention of the Ass istant Director or

Authorized Officer, or the Autho rized Officer of the su rface managing agency, if

the Assistant Director is not available. The lessee shall not disturb such resources

except as may be subsequently authorized by the Assistant Director or Authorized

Officer.

Within two (2) working days of notification, the Assistant Director or Authorized

Officer will evaluate or have evaluated any cultural resources discovered and will

determine if any action m ay be required to protect or preserve such discoveries.

The cost of data recovery for cultural resources discov ered du ring lease

operations shall be borne by the lessee un less o therwise specified by the

Authorized Officer of the BLM or of the surface managing agency, if different.

(5) All cultural resources sh all remain under the jurisd iction of the United S tates

until ownership is determined under applicable law.

(b) PALEONTOLOGICAL RESOURCES - If paleontological resources, either large and

conspicuous, and/or of sign ificant scientific value are discovered during mining

operations, th e find will b e repo rted to the Autho rized Officer imm ediately. Min ing

operations will be suspended within 250 feet of said find. An evaluation of the

paleontological discovery will be m ade by a BLM approved professional paleontologist

within five (5) working days, weather perm itting, to determ ine the appropriate action(s)

to prevent the po tential loss of any s ignificant paleontological value. Operatio ns within

250 feet of such discovery will not be resum ed until written autho rization to proceed is

issued by the Authorized Officer. The lessee will bear the cost of any required

paleontological app raisals, surface co llection of fossils, or s alvage of any large

conspicuous fossils or significant scientific interest discovered during the operations.

(c) THREATENED, ENDANGERED, CANDIDATE, or OTHER SPECIAL STATUS

PLANT and ANIMAL SPECIES - The lease area m ay contain habitat for threatened,

endangered, candidate, or other special status plant and an imal species . If surveys

performed during the perm it application process of future perm it revisions indicate that

any threatened, endangered, candidate, or other special status p lant/animal species could

be impacted by proposed coal m ining and re clamation operations located on this lease

and the potential im pacts to the species canno t be satisfactorily resolved through

coordination with the USFWS, the proposed coal m ining and reclam ation operations

could be restricted or constrained by the State regulatory authority.

(d) MULTIPLE MINERAL DEVELOPMENT - Operations will not be approved which,

in the op inion of the Autho rized Officer, would unreasonably interfere with the orderly

development and/or production from a valid existing m ineral lease issued prior to this

one for the same lands.
(e) OIL AND GAS/COAL RESOURCES - The BLM realizes that coal mining operations

conducted on Federal coal leases issued within producing oil and gas fields may interfere

with the econom ic recovery of oil and gas; just as Federal oil and gas leases issued in a

Federal coal lease area m ay inhibit coal r ecovery. BLM retains th e autho rity to alter

and/or modify the resource recovery and pr otection plans for coal operations and/or oil

and gas operations on those lands covered by Fed eral m ineral leases so as to ob tain

maximum resource recovery.

(f) RESOURCE RECOVERY AND PROTECTION - Notwithstanding the approval of a

resource recovery and protection plan (R2P2) by the BLM, lessor reserves the right to

seek dam ages against the operato r/lessee in the even t (i) the operator/lessee fails to

achieve maximum economic recovery (MER) (as defined at 43 CFR 3480.0-5(21)) of the

recoverable coal reserves o r (ii) the operato r/lessee is determ ined to have caused a

wasting of recoverable coal reserves. Dam ages shall be m easured on the basis of the

royalty that would have been payable on the wasted or unrecoverable coal.

The parties recognize that under an appr oved R2P2, conditions m ay require a

modification by the operator/lessee of that plan. In the event a coal bed or portion thereof

is not to be m ined or is rendered unm ineable by the operation, the operator/lessee shall

submit appropriate jus tification to obtain ap proval by the Authorized Officer to leave

such reserves unm ined. Upon approval by the Authorized Officer, such coal beds or

portions thereof shall not be subject to dam ages as described above. Further, nothing in

this section shall prevent the operator/lessee from exercising its right to relinquish all or

portion of the lease as authorized by statute and regulation.

In the event the Authorized Officer determines that the R2P2, as approved, will not attain

MER as the result of changed conditions, the Authorized Officer will give proper notice

to the operator/lessee as required under applicable regulations. The Authorized Office

will order a modification if necessary, identifying additional reserves to be mined in order

to attain MER. Upon a final adm inistrative or judicial ruling upholding such an ordered

modification, any reserves left unm ined (wasted) under that plan will be subject to

damages as described in the first paragraph under this section.

Subject to the right to appeal hereinafter set forth, payment of the value of the royalty on

such unm ined recoverable coal reserves shall becom e due and payable upon

determination by the Authorized Officer th at the coal reserves have been rendered

unmineable or at such time that the operator/lessee had demonstrated an unwillingness to

extract the coal.

The BLM m ay enforce this provision either by issuing a written decision requiring

payment of the MMS demand for such royalties, or by issuing a notice of noncompliance. A decision or notice of non-com pliance issued by the lessor that paym ent is

due under this stipulation is appealable as allowed by law.
(g) PUBLIC LAND SURVEY PROTECTION - The lessee will p rotect all su rvey

monuments, witness corners, reference monuments, and bearing trees against destruction,

obliteration, or damage during operations on the lease areas. If any monuments, corners

or accessories are destroyed, ob literated, o r dam aged by this operation, the lessee will

hire an appropriate county surveyor or registered land surveyor to reestablish or restore

the m onuments, corners, or acces sories a th e sam e locations, using the su rveying

procedures in accordan ce with the “Manual of Surveying Instructions for the Survey of

the Public Lands of the United States.” The su rvey will be record ed in the approp riate

county records, with a copy sent to the Authorized Officer.

(h) BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES – Surface uses such as core hole d rilling o r

subsidence reclamation shall be subject to season-of-use restrictions depending upon the

species.