United States Region 4 EPA 904/9-81 -058
Environmental Protection 345 Courtland Street, NE August 1981
Agency Atlanta, GA 30365
EPA Environmental
Impact Statement DRAFT
Mississippi Chemical Corporation
Hardee County Phosphate Mine
Hardee County, Florida
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UNITED STATES ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY
Z4-
f*f*ir ^ REGION IV
345 COURTLAND STREET
EPA 904/9-81-058 ATLANTA, GEORGIA 30355
NPDES Application Number:
FL 0037745
Draft
Environmental Impact Statement
for
Proposed Issuance of a New Source National
Pollutant Discharge Elimination System Permit
to
Mississippi Chemical Corporation
Phosphate Mine
Hardee County, Florida
prepared by:
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Region IV, Atlanta, Georgia 30365
cooperating agency:
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
Jacksonville District
Jacksonville, Florida 32201
Mississippi Chemical Corporation has proposed to operate an
open pit phosphate mine and beneficiation plant and rock dryer
on 14850 acres in west central Hardee County, Florida. Mining
and processing will produce 3 million tons of phosphate rock
per year for 32 years. The EIS examines project alternatives,
impacts, and mitigative measures related to air, groundwater,
surface water, radiation, ecological, socioeconomic, and
cultural systems.
Comments will be received until OCT 3 0 1981
Comments or inquiries should be directed to:
Dario J. Dal Santo, EIS Project Officer
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Region IV
345 Courtland Street, N.E.
Atlanta, Georgia 30365
(404) 881-7458
approved by:
t/il/11
CKarl^s" R. Jetj^r Date' //
Regional Administrator
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THIS PAGE LEFT BLANK INTENTIONALLY
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY FOR
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENT
HARDEE COUNTY PHOSPHATE MINE
MISSISSIPPI CHEMICAL CORPORATION
(X) DRAFT
( ) FINAL
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Region IV
345 Courtland Street NE
Atlanta, Georgia 30365
1. Type of Action: Administrative (X) Legislative ( )
2. Description of Action
Mississippi Chemical Corporation (MCC) is proposing to construct and
operate a phosphate mine, beneficiation plant, and rock drying facility
in west-central Hardee County, Florida. The USEPA Region IV Admini-
strator has declared'the proposed phosphate mine to be a new source as
defined in Section 306 of the Federal Clean Water Act.
In compliance with its responsibility under the National Environmen-
tal Policy Act (NEPA) of 1969, the USEPA Region IV Administrator has
determined that the issuance of a new source National Pollutant Dis-
charge Elimination System (NPDES) permit for the proposed mining and
beneficiation facility would constitute a major federal action signifi-
cantly affecting the quality of the human environment. Therefore, an
Environmental Impact Statement has been prepared.
The proposed facility, the Hardee County Mine, encompasses 14,850
acres of which approximately 9,000 acres are deemed mineable according
to present economic, environmental, and technological limitations. The
mining operation is planned to produce 3 million tons of phosphate ore
annually for a period of 31.5 years. MCC, a farmer-owned fertilizer
producing cooperative, presently operates a chemical complex in
Pascagoula, Mississippi which requires approximately 1 million tons of
dry phosphate rock per year for the production of fertilizers. To
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ensure its ability to obtain long-term supplies of phosphate ore for
its fertilizer production, MCC proposes mining the tract of land under
consideration. The remaining 2 million tons of annual mine production
would be sold to other customers in order to generate sufficient
revenue to make the mine an economically viable project.
Components of the proposed facilities would include two draglines
with 45 cubic yard buckets; hydraulic ore transportation via pipelines
from the mine to a central washer for ore disaggregation and pebble
recovery; a feed preparation and flotation plant for extraction of
finer phosphates; a drying facility to reduce moisture in the phosphate
rock from 13 percent to 2 percent; and shipment via rail, principally
to Tampa from which the rock would be barged to Pascagoula and other
customer- receiving ports.
The mining plan proposed by MCC calls for mining approximately 9,000
acres in Hardee County. As proposed, three wetlands on the property,
totalling 120 acres of swamp and 113 acres of marsh, would be pre-
served. These wetlands would not be affected by mining operations un-
less, and until, the USEPA determines that MCC has proven the feasi-
bility of creating wetlands of essentially the same ecological func-
tions. An additional 440 acres of wetlands (including 35 acres of
swamp) on the site would be unaffected by the proposed action. The
mining plan would include disturbance of approximately 4 miles of 5 cfs
streambeds.
The proposed water management plan would divide the needed supply
between surface and ground water resources and would minimize mining
process consumption. The Consumptive Use Permit issued by the South-
west Florida Water Management District (SWFWMD) allows ground water
withdrawal at a rate of 17.4 million gallons per day (mgd) for the
first 3 years. During this time, a 200 acre surface water reservoir
would be constructed to provide storage for surface water diverted from
Brushy Creek. Approximately 5.1 mgd (annual average) would be taken
from the storage reservoir, thereby reducing ground water use to 12.3
mgd for the remainder of the project life. A schedule of minimum flows
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has been established by SWFWMD to assure that downstream uses of Brushy
Creek would not be impaired.
The proposed waste disposal plan would be a modification of the con-
ventional and sand/clay mix methods. A four-foot thick sand/clay cap
(approximate ratio of 8 parts sand to 1 part clay by weight) would be
placed on approximately half of the clay disposal areas. This would
result in creation of a minimal number of lakes and above-grade storage
areas. Of the 10,722 acres to be used for waste disposal, less than
3,700 acres would be above-grade after final reclamation is complete.
Areas not receiving a sand/clay cap would be partially capped with a
mixture of sand tailings and overburden.
The proposed reclamation plan would be accomplished by the physical
restructuring and refilling of disturbed sites (mine cuts and clay
storage areas), followed by revegetation. The proposed methodology
would return the site to land forms compatible with its rural, agricul-
tural setting and would reclaim approximately 82 percent of the
disturbed wetland acreage. The reclaimed site would consist of im-
proved pasture, marsh and swamp environments, two lakes, and meandering
streambeds providing surface drainage. The proposed plan aims to pro-
vide long range water quality and biological diversity as well as
aesthetic values in land form diversity, wildlife protection, recre-
ational uses, and water resources. As proposed, wetland areas and
streams, if successfully recreated, would be of generally better
quality than those presently on the site.
3. Major Alternatives Considered
A. Beneficiation plant sites
Alternatives were evaluated primarily with regard to minimizing loss
of phosphate resource, water pumping, ore and waste transportation,
road and utility construction, and destruction of environmentally sen-
sitive areas. A site adjacent to the existing rail facilities was
identified as preferable from an engineering standpoint. No
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substantial difference in environmental impacts was noted among the
sites considered.
B. Mining Methods
Alternatives examined were electric draglines, dredges, and bucket
wheel excavators. Mining methods were evaluated to assess'ore recovery
rates, energy use, water use and conservation, environmental resources,
and safety. Draglines were identified as the most environmentally
preferable and energy-efficient alternative.
C. Matrix Transport
Ore-transportation alternatives were evaluated considering technical
and operational feasibility, cost, energy use, water conservation, and
impact to the environment. Conventional slurry pumping, conveyors, and
trucks were considered. Conveyors would be the environmentally prefer-
able alternative and would be energy-efficient. However, they are an
unproven technology in the central Florida phosphate region and are
capital and maintenance intensive. Slurry pumping is proven techno-
logy, extremely flexible, much less costly, and environmentally accep-
table.
D. Ore Processing
Beneficiation process alternatives were evaluated for energy and
water use efficiencies and for environmental impacts. Alternatives
considered were conventional beneficiation, direct acidulation, and dry
beneficiation.
Dry beneficiation and direct acidulation are energy-intensive and,
although they would eliminate clay disposal areas, air emissions would
increase substantially. Both are unproven technologies in the Central
Florida phosphate district. Although clay disposal areas are created
by conventional beneficiation practices, this is considered the prefer-
red alternative.
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E. Process Water Sources
Alternatives considered were use of groundwater, surface water with
rainfall catchment, and a combination of ground and surface water.
Water sources were evaluated with consideration for conserving this
regional resource while providing a sufficient quality and quantity of
process water. A combination of using ground and surface water re-
sources was identified as a workable and environmentally acceptable
alternative. MCC has been issued a consumptive use permit from the
Southwest Florida Water Management District for the proposed facility.
F. Wastewater Treatment
Effluent discharge alternatives considered included surface and
ground water disposal. Ground water discharge through connector wells
to the Floridan aquifer would not offer any significant environmental
advantages and would be much more costly than surface discharge. Dis-
charge of effluents to surface waters would occur during the rainy sea-
son and would meet applicable federal and state effluent limitations.
G. Rock Drying
Rock drying alternatives were evaluated to select an alternative
which provided an environmental, energy, and cost-effective means of
meeting project needs. Alternatives assessed were construction of a
dryer at the mine site, shipment of wet rock with drying at a remote
location, and shipment and processing of wet rock.
Rock drying at the mine site was determined to be environmentally
acceptable. It would be the most technologically and economically pre-
ferred alternative and, based on current and projected near-term demand
for wet and dry phosphate rock, would also be the least energy inten-
sive. Air emissions would meet federal and state air quality stand-
ards. Based on current data, rock drying at MCC's Pascagoula facility
would probably require emission offsets from existing industries since
the available air quality degradation increment in the area is extreme-
ly small. Additionally, a Class I area in proximity to the Pascagoula
fertilizer plant might be adversely impacted by emissions from a rock
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dryer. Conversion from dry rock phosphate processing to wet rock pro-
cessing at MCC's Pascagoula facility would require substantial
financial commitments. An initial analysis has indicated conversion
would probably create water quality problems at the complex.
H. Waste Disposal and Reclamation
Evaluation of waste disposal and reclamation plans focused on methods
to dispose of sand and clay wastes in a manner that would reduce above-
grade storage and economically restore disturbed land to a productive
state. Physical restoration and revegetation were considered in light
of existing and planned environmental systems. Conventional, sand/clay
mixing, and sand/clay cap methods of waste disposal were considered.
Land-in-lakes reclamation and minimum above-grade storage were
evaluated.
Because of the nature of the ore matrix and the geology at the MCC
site, a sand/clay mix reclamation strategy (normally a preferred al-
ternative) has been determined to be infeasible. By using a sand/clay
cap on the waste disposal area, a more effective use of the limited
quantities of sand would be achieved. This technique would reduce
above-grade clay storage to about 3,700 acres. With the conventional
waste disposal method approximately 7,500 acres of above-grade clay
storage would be required.
I. Wetlands Preservation
Preservation alternatives included direct application of the USEPA
Areawide EIS wetlands categories, site-specific application of those
same categories, wetlands systems protection and protection of wetlands
as specified in the Hardee County Development Order (Appendix C).
Alternatives were primarily evaluated with consideration of effects on
ecological functions of the wetlands and on phosphate ore
recovery.
Based upon the USEPA1s evaluation of the project and onsite wetlands,
a site-specific application of the USEPA Areawide EIS wetlands categor-
ization criteria was identified as an environmentally acceptable
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alternative. This alternative identifies preserving three onsite wet-
lands totalling 233 acres and conducting a 90-acre wetland restoration
program to demonstrate the ability of creating wetlands in historically
wet areas.
J. Phosphate Rock Transport
Alternatives evaluated included railroad with trucks as emergency
mode, trucks only, pipeline to port, and conveyor. Current transport
practices in the phosphate district rely predominantly on the rail
system. Rail transport was determined to be the environmentally and
economically preferred alternative.
K. No Action
A no action alternative was evaluated to consider the effects and
implications of not issuing an NPDES permit to MCC for the phosphate
mine. This would effectively preclude mining on the site at the pre-
sent time. Seasonally heavy rainfall would prevent implementation of a
zero discharge water management design. (A zero-discharge design would
not require an NPDES permit).
No action would allow the area to be left in its present environmen-
tal and socioeconomic state for at least the near future. Air re-
sources would not be impacted by a rock dryer. Land use would remain
predominantly unimproved pasture. The existing wetlands and water
resources would not be restructured. No intensive development would be
expected at the site in the immediate future.
No action would result in loss of project investment to MCC and its
farmer-owners. It would also cause a loss to MCC of approximately 94.5
million tons of phosphate rock reserves. Though reserves would likely
be mined at some future data when high-grade phosphate reserves are
depleted and the ore on the MCC site becomes strategically and economi-
cally more valuable, it is unlikely that MCC would retain ownership
until that time.
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L. USEPA's Preferred Alternative and Recommended Action
Based on the environmental, technical, and economic analyses detailed
in the DEIS and supporting documents, the USEPA's preferred alterna-
tives for the major project components are as follows:
Mining: Dragline
Matrix Transport: Slurry pipeline
Matrix Processing: Conventional beneficiation
Rock Drying: Dryer at Ona Site
Process Water Source: Ground/surface water
Wastewater Treatment: Discharge to surface waters
Reclamation: Conventional with sand/clay cap
Wetlands Preservation: Site-specific application of Areawide EIS
wetland criteria
As noted, the USEPA's preferred alternatives for the major project
components are generally identical to those proposed by MCC. With
regard to waste disposal, a sand/clay mix process would normally be
environmentally preferable. However, because of the low ratio (<2.0 to
1) of sand to clay on the property, full implementation of this alter-
native is not technically possible. The sand/clay alternative proposed
by MCC optimizes use of onsite geological resources and is environ-
mentally acceptable.
The wetlands preservation alternative preferred by the USEPA is
the site-specific application of the Areawide EIS wetland criteria.
The site-specific alternative identified only the three onsite
wetlands, totalling 233 acres (Figure 2.10-5), as being characteristic
of Category I wetlands and worthy of preservation. The wetlands
systems alternative (Section 2.10.4) identified two additional wetland
areas (Areas A and C; Figure 2.10-6) as being of importance on the
site. Because of the extensive stream channelization existing on the
property, the small and isolated natures of most wetlands, and the
generally lesser habitat and water quality value of these wetlands,
they were not identified as characteristic of Category I wetlands. In
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view of the loss of these wetlands, a 90-acre restoration program would
be conducted as an integral part of the USEPA's preferred alternative.
This 90-acre program would be in addition to the restoration program
identified in the Hardee County Development Order alternative (Section
2.10.1). The extensively alterred hydrologic character of the MCC
property provides suitable sites for conducting a study of this nature.
Functionally more valuable wetlands would likely be created during
reclamation of the property for the wetlands which are not preserved.
4. Summary of Major Environmental Effects
Each of the selected alternatives was integrated into the appropriate
land or water management strategy: the mining plan, waste disposal/
reclamation plan, and water management plan. Environmental impacts of
the proposed activity were then assessed. The major emphasis of the
impact assessment was to identify means of minimizing the degree and
extent of negative impacts caused by the mining operation at any one
time and to minimize the permanent alteration and/or destruction, of
natural systems and environmental resources.
The direct effect of mining would be the physical destruction of
much of the present natural vegetation and the alteration of the site's
soils and topography. The proposed reclamation plan is intended to
mitigate the long-term negative impacts of ttie mining operation. Major
impacts to the three major topographic systems would be:
Land - Overall, 69 percent of the native upland vegetation would be
lost. Reclamation is designed to replace most natural land
communities with improved pasture, thereby largely precluding
the re-establishment of original vegetation.
Land-Water Interface - There are approximately 2,980 acres of swamps
and marshes on the site. Mining operations would not affect 440
acres (15 percent). An additional 233 acres (8 percent) would
be preserved; mining or waste disposal on these wetlands would
only be allowed if the USEPA determines at some future date that
MCC has successfully demonstrated creation of wetlands onsite to
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an equivalent functional capacity. The mining and reclamation
plans would result in post project wetlands consisting of 425
acres of swamp (87 percent of present acreage) and 2,025 acres
of marsh (81 percent of present acreage). The proposed re-
claimed wetlands would have greater contiguity with surface
streams than do those now in existence and would possess greater
functional wetland value.
Water - Approximately 4 miles of streambeds with annual average flow
greater than 5 cfs would be mined or used for waste disposal.
Additional ephemeral streams on the site would be displaced.
Aquatic areas would be stressed through changes in temperature,
insolation, erosion, water table drawdown, and addition of
various chemicals. Streambed reclamation would result in re-
placing predominantly channelized ditches with meandering,
vegetated streams. Viable stream habitat would be maintained
throughout the mine life by limiting mining activities to one
side of a stream at a time and by creating a biologically func-
tional alternate streambed sufficiently in advance of mining the
existing streambed. Mining would create approximately 300 acres
of lakes on the site, which is a significant expansion of the
aquatic environment.
The proposed activity would thus significantly alter the site's
original topography through strip mining and waste clay disposal acti-
vities. The long-term, net effects on topography are directly
reflected in the proposed reclamation plan, which returns the site to
pre-mining elevation and relief to the maximum possible extent.
Approximately 2,200 acres would have a final elevation 40 to 45 feet
above-grade and 1,500 acres would be approximately 25 feet above-
grade.
Proposed mining activities would disturb the exis-ting soils on ap-
proximately 72 percent of the site. Existing soil profiles would be
destroyed and, in general, the surface horizon would be buried. Waste
disposal and physical reclamation would result in three types of
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surface soils: overburden, sand/clay cap mix, and tailings/overburden
mix. Each of the new, reclaimed soil types would have distinct
agricultural and engineering properties that relate to post-reclamation
land use potential.
The average annual ground water withdrawals would be limited to 12.3
mgd (17.4 mgd during first three years). During the fourth year of
mining, approximately 5.1 mgd of water would be diverted from Brushy
Creek Reservoir for project use. Approximately 3.3 mgd is expected to
seep into ground and surface waters from waste storage areas so that
consumptive water use would be 14.1 mgd.
The primary effect of withdrawals from the deep ground water system
would be the lowering of the potentiometric surface within the area of
influence of the wells. This effect would be extremely small in com-
parison to the large seasonal fluctuation. Potential impacts to water
quality in the deep aquifer system might occur as a result of these
withdrawals and by gradual recharge from the shallow aquifer to the
deep aquifer system. Monitoring of the quality of ground water is
required by the Southwest Florida Water Management District.
The primary effect of mining activities on the shallow ground water
system would be the localized lowering of the water level within the
system by mine pit dewatering. The proposed reclamation project might
cause changes in water quality in the surficial aquifer as well as
changes in on-site flow patterns within the surficial aquifer.
During active mining, stream flow in Brushy Creek would decrease by
approximately 26 percent. After reclamation, the average flows of sur-
face streams draining the site would be approximately the same as at
present.
Discharges to streams from the plant water system may be necessary
due to temporal variation in rainfall. It is anticipated that an
average of 3.5 cfs could be discharged into Oak Creek during the period
from June through September. This would increase the average flow in
Oak Creek by approximately 21 percent during these months. Effluents
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discharged to Oak Creek would meet applicable federal and state ef-
fluent guidelines. Certain water quality criteria might not be met
in-stream (see "Unresolved Issues," p. xiv).
The proposed mining activities would have both primary and secondary
air quality effects. Primary effects would occur as a result of opera-
tion of the phosphate rock dryer; phosphate rock storage, handling, and
transport; and fugitive dust from land clearing and reclamation activi-
ties. Secondary effects would result from transportation of materials
and products associated with the proposed project. Primary emissions
from the rock dryer and associated facilities would be very fine clay
and phosphate rock particulates and by-products of the combustion of
the fuel oil (e.g., sulfur dioxide and ash). Emissions from the pro-
posed activities would not violate air quality standards or signifi-
cantly degrade air quality. Sulfur dioxide and particulate matter
emissions would satisfy New Source Performance Standards and BACT.
Noise levels associated with mine-related activities would not be
intrusive or detrimental to sensitive receptors.
Mining, waste disposal, and reclamation activities would alter the
distribution of radioactive materials in soils on the property. Future
indoor radon daughter working levels (WL) could exceed USEPA proposed
limits on clay storage areas if residences were built on these areas in
the future. Remedial action, such as topsoil emplacement, might be
necessary to lower these working levels. If the clay settling areas
are excluded from such development for structural reasons or if topsoil
replacement occurs, no other restrictions on land use would be
required. All other reclaimed lands on the site are predicted to
produce radon progeny levels below the proposed 0.02 WL remedial action
level.
Radium-226 concentrations in surface water onsite and downstream
could increase very slightly due to effluent discharge and runoff from
mine lands. Concentrations should be less than 2 pCi/liter, which is
below the drinking water standard of 5 pCi/liter. Ground water concen-
xii
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trations should be slightly reduced because the surficial materials
would contain less radioactive material after reclamation than at
present.
Calculated individual and population dose commitments from inhala-
tion, ingestion, and direct exposure pathways (including food chain
contributions and airborne particulates from rock drying) indicate that
increases during any phase of the project could not be measured within
the statistical variation of natural background levels.
The socioeconomic impacts of the proposed project would be generally
beneficial. Operation of the mine would directly employ 450 workers.
It is estimated that 70 of these workers would originate from the
Hardee County labor force. The mine would produce approximate annual
tax revenues of more than $6.5 million. The total economic benefits,
including direct, indirect, and induced impacts, for the operating
phase of the project would total $42.4 million annually. The mine
would exert no directly discernable effects on community services and
facilities as the operation would be self-sufficient in terms of minor
medical treatment, water supply, fire and police protection, solid
waste disposal, and internal transportation facilities. The mine would
not measurably increase demand on regional facilities for education,
major medical treatment, recreation, and transportation.
Long-term land use patterns should not be adversely affected by the
mining activity. The planned mine reclamation program would return the
site to land forms amenable to a variety of agricultural uses. The
proposed mine site would be located near several other phosphate mines
and, therefore, should not disrupt near-future land use trends in the
area.
5. Mitigative Measures
Several measures which would serve to mitigate the impacts of the
proposed project on the surrounding environment were identified during
the environmental review process. These measures are outlined below:
xiii
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0 Implement a program to minimize impacts to the eastern indigo
snake (a threatened species) which occurs on the site. The
program would emphasize capture of the snake and release through
coordination with the Florida Game and Fresh Water Fish Commis-
sion.
0 Implement a program to excavate an aboriginal site eligible for
National Register listing.
0 Mine only one side of a stream at a time to prevent disruption
of surface drainage and maintain biological systems in the
streambed.
Preserve from mining and waste disposal activities the major,
functionally significant wetlands onsite (Figure 2.10-5). At
such time as MCC has demonstrated the creation of wetlands
having essentially equal functional values, MCC could re-open
the possibility of mining the preserved areas with the USEPA.
0 Conduct a 90-acre experimental wetland restoration program in
Sections 31 and 32, T34S-R24E to demonstrate the ability of
creating wetlands in historically wet areas.
0 Implement a sand/clay capping technique to minimize above-grade
clay storage areas and restore topography to as close to
original conditions as possible.
6. Unresolved Issues
An aboriginal site on the property has been declared to be National
Register eligible by the Keeper of the National Register (Appendix E).
As proposed, MCC's project would destroy this site. In accordance with
provisions of the National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA), the USEPA
is required to initiate consultation with the Advisory Council for the
purpose of mitigating the loss of this resource. Consultation will
commence with release of the Draft EIS. It is the opinion of the State
Historic Preservation Office that this cultural site should be
excavated (see Appendix E).
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The ambient concentrations in Oak Creek for dissolved oxygen and pH
violate (are below) Florida Water Quality Standards for Class III
waters. MCC proposes to discharge effluents to this creek and would
need to obtain relief from the Florida Department of Environmental
Regulation (e.g., for Site Specific Alternative Criteria) to discharge
these parameters. In addition, specific conductance and oil and grease
concentrations in the mixed stream might violate Florida water quality
standards. This issue has not yet been resolved.
xv
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Section Page
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 1
1.0 PURPOSE AND NEED FOR ACTION 1.0-1
1.1 Regulatory Action 1.0-1
1.2 Mississippi Chemical Corporation Action 1.0-2
2.0 ALTERNATIVES EVALUATION 2.1-1
2.1 Mining Method 2.1-2
2.1.1 Dragline (Proposed by MCC) 2.1-3
2.1.1.1 System Description 2.1-3
2.1.1.2 Environmental Considerations . . . 2.1-4
2.1.1.3 Technical Considerations 2.1-5
2.1.2 Dredge 2.1-5
2.1.2.1 System Description 2.1-5
2.1.2.2 Environmental Considerations . . . 2.1-7
2.1.2.3 Technical Considerations 2.1-7
2.1.3 Bucket Wheel Excavation 2.1-7
2.1.3.1 System Description 2.1-7
2.1.3.2 Environmental Considerations . . . 2.1-8
2.1.3.3 Technical Considerations 2.1-8
2.1.4 Summary 2.1-9
2.2 Plant Site Location 2.2-1
2.2.1 Site Description and Technical
Considerations 2.2-1
2.2.1.1 Vandolah Location (Proposed
by MCC) 2.2-2
2.2.1.2 Centroid of Phosphate Ore
Processing 2.2-2
2.2.1.3 Centroid of Mining and Waste
Disposal . 2.2-3
xvi
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TABLE OF CONTENTS (Continued)
Sectioji Page
2.2.2 Environmental Considerations 2.2-3
2.2.3 Summary 2.2-3
2.3 Matrix Transport 2.3-1
2.3.1 Slurry Pipeline (Proposed by MCC) 2.3-1
2.3.1.1 System Description 2.3-1
2.3.1.2 Environmental Considerations . . . 2.3-2
2.3.1.3 Technical Considerations 2.3-2
2.3.2 Conveyor Belt 2.3-3
2.3.2.1 System Description 2.3-3
2.3.2.2 Environmental considerations . . . 2.3-3
2.3.2.3 Technical Considerations 2.3-4
2.3.3 Trucking 2.3-4
2.3.3.1 System Description 2.3-5
2.3.3.2 Environmental Considerations . . . 2.3-5
2.3.3.3 Technical Considerations 2.3-5
2.3.4 Summary 2.3-7
2.4 Ore Processing 2.4-1
2.4.1 Wet Process Beneficiation (Proposed by MCC). 2.4-1
2.4.1.1 System Description 2.4-1
2.4.1.2 Environmental Considerations . . . 2.4-4
2.4.1.3 Technical Considerations 2.4-4
2.4.2 Dry Separation 2.4-4
2.4.2.1 System Description 2.4-4
2.4.2.2 Environmental Considerations . . . 2.4-5
2.4.2.3 Technical Considerations 2.4-5
2.4.3 Direct Acidulation 2.4-5
2.4.3.1 System Description ... 2.4-5
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TABLE OF CONTENTS (Continued)
Section Page
2.4.3.2 Environmental Considerations . . . 2.4-6
2.4.3.3 Technical Considerations 2.4-6
2.4.4 Summary 2.4-6
2.5 Process Water Sources 2.5-1
2.5.1 Source Description and Technical
Considerations 2.5-1
2.5.1.1 Surface Water 2.5-1
2.5.1.2 Ground Water 2.5-2
2.5.1.3 Combination of Surface and Ground
Water (Proposed by MCC) 2.5-3
2.5.2 Environmental Considerations 2.5-4
2.5.3 Summary 2.5-4
2.6 Liquid Effluent Disposal 2.6-1
2.6.1 Method Description and Technical
Considerations 2.6-1
2.6.1.1 Surface Water Discharge
(Proposed by MCC) 2.6-1
2.6.1.2 Ground Water Discharge 2.6-2
2.6.2 Environmental Considerations ... 2.6-2
2.6.3 Summary 2.6-3
2.7 Rock Drying 2.7-1
2.7.1 Rock Dryer at Ona (Proposed by MCC) .... 2.7-2
2.7.1.1 Description of System 2.7-2
2.7.1.2 Environmental Considerations . . . 2.7-3
2.7.1.3 Technical and Economic
Considerations 2.7-3
2.7.2 Rock Dryer at Chemical Plant 2.7-4
2.7.2.1 Description of System 2.7-4
2.7.2.2 Environmental Considerations . . . 2.7-4
xvm
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TABLE OF CONTENTS (Continued)
Section Page
2.7.2.3 Technical and Economic
Considerations 2.7-4
2.7.3 No Rock Dryer 2.7-5
2.7.3.1 System Description 2.7-5
2.7.3.2 Environmental Considerations . . . 2.7-6
2.7.3.3 Technical and Economic
Considerations 2.7-6
2.7.4 Summary 2.7-7
2.8 Waste Disposal 2.8-1
2.8.1 Conventional Method 2.8-1
2.8.1.1 Method Description 2.8-1
2.8.1.2 Environmental Considerations . . . 2.8-3
2.8.1.3 Technical Considerations 2.8-3
2.8.2 Sand/Clay Mixing Method 2.8-4
2.8.2.1 Method Description 2.8-4
2.8.2.2 Environmental Considerations . . . 2.8-5
2.8.2.3 Technical Considerations 2.8-6
2.8.3 Conventional Disposal Plus Sand/Clay Capping
(Proposed by MCC) 2.8-7
2.8.3.1 Method Description 2.8-7
2.8.3.2 Environmental Considerations . . . 2.8-8
2.8.3.3 Technical Considerations 2.8-9
2.8.4 Summary 2.8-9
2.9 Reclamation 2.9-1
2.9.1 Conventional Method 2.9-1
2.9.1.1 Method Description 2.9-1
2.9.1.2 Environmental Considerations . . . 2.9-3
2.9.1.3 Technical Considerations 2.9-4
2.9.2 Sand/Clay Mix Method 2.9-4
xix
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TABLE OF CONTENTS (Continued)
Section Page
2.9.2.1 Method Description 2.9-5
2.9.2.2 Environmental Considerations . . . 2.9-7
2.9.2.3 Technical Considerations 2.9-7
2.9.3 Conventional Method with a Sand/Clay Cap
(Proposed by MCC) 2.9-8
2.9.3.1 Method Description 2.9-8
2.9.3.2 Environmental Considerations . . . 2.9-8
2.9.3.3 Technical Considerations 2.9-9
2.9.4 Summary 2.9-9
2.10 Wetlands Preservation 2.10-1
2.10.1 Wetlands Preserved and Restored Under the
Hardee County Development Order (Proposed
by MCC) 2.10-3
2.10.1.1 Plan Description 2.10-3
2.10.1.2 Environmental, Technical, and
Economic Considerations 2.10-4
2.10.2 USEA Areawide Categorization of Wetlands
(Alternative) 2.10-5
2.10.2.1 Plan Description 2.10-5
2.10.2.2 Environmental, Technical, and
Economic Considerations 2.10-7
2.10.3 Site-Specific Application of USEPA Criteria
(Alternative) 2.10-7
2.10.3.1 Plan Description 2.10-7
2.10.3.2 Environmental, Technical, and
Economic Considerations 2.10-8
2.10.4 Wetlands Systems (Alternative) ....... 2.10-9
2.10.4.1 Plan Description . . 2.10-9
2.10.4.2 Environmental, Technical, and
Economic Considerations 2.10-10
2.10.5 Summary ...... 2.10-11
xx
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TABLE OF CONTENTS (Continued)
Section Page
2.11 Product Transport 2.11-1
2.11.1 System Description 2.11-1
2.11.2 Environmental Considerations 2.11-1
2.11.3 Summary 2.11-2
2.12 No Action 2.12-1
2.12.1 Background 2.12-1
2.12.2 Effects of No Action 2.12-1
2.12.2.1 Water Resources 2.12-1
2.12.2.2 Biology 2.12-2
2.12.2.3 Air Resources 2.12-3
2.12.2.4 Socioeconomics 2.12-3
2.12.2.5 Land Use 2.12-4
2.12.2.6 Historical and Archeological
Resources 2.12-4
2.12.2.7 Radiology 2.12-4
2.12.3 Summary 2.12-5
2.13 Postponement of Action 2.13-1
2.14 USEPA's Preferred Alternative and Recommended
Action 2.14-1
3.0 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES . . 3.1-1
3.1 Geology/Soils 3.1-1
3.1.1 Existing Conditions 3.1-1
3.1.1.1 Stratigraphy 3.1-1
3.1.1.2 Structure 3.1-3
3.1.1.3 Sinkhole Development 3.1-4
3.1.1.4 Mineral Resources 3.1-5
3.1.1.5 Soils 3.1-5
3.1.2 Environmental Impacts 3.1-6
3.1.2.1 MCC's Proposed Action 3.1-6
3.1.2.2 Alternatives 3.1-8
3.1.3 Mitigative Measures 3.1-9
3.2 Water Resources 3.2-1
3.2.1 Surface Water 3.2-1
xxi
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TABLE OF CONTENTS (Continued)
Section . Page
3.2.1.1 Existing Conditions 3.2-1
3.2.1.2 Environmental Impacts 3.2-5
3.2.1.3 Mitigative Measures 3.2-15
3.2.2 Ground Water 3.2-19
3.2.2.1 Baseline Conditions 3.2-19
3.2.2.2 Environmental Impacts 3.2-23
3.2.2.3 Mitigative Measures 3.2-29
3.3 Biology 3.3-1
3.3.1 Terrestrial Biology 3.3-1
3.3.1.1 Existing Conditions 3.3-1
3.3.1.2 Environmental Impacts 3.3-5
3.3.1.3 Mitigative Measures 3.3-8
3.3.2 Wetlands and Aquatic Ecosystems 3.3-9
3.3.2.1 Existing Conditions 3.3-9
3.3.2.2 Environmental Impacts 3.3-15
3.3.2.3 Mitigative Measures 3.3-19
3.3.3 Threatened or Endangered Species 3.3-20
3.3.3.1 Existing Conditions 3.3-20
3.3.3.2 Environmental Impacts 3.3-22
3.3.3.3 Mitigative Measures 3.3-22
3.4 Air Resources 3.4-1
3.4.1 Climatology 3.4-1
3.4.2 Ambient Air Quality 3.4-2
3.4.2.1 Existing Conditions 3.4-2
3.4.2.2 Environmental Impacts 3.4-4
3.4.2.3 Mitigative Measures 3.4-12
3.5 Human Resources ......... 3.5-1
3.5.1 Socioeconomic and Transportation ...... 3.5-1
3.5.1.1 Existing Conditions 3.5-1
3.5.1.2 Environmental Impacts 3.5-4
xxn
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TABLE OF CONTENTS (Continued)
Section Page
3.5.1.3 Mitigative Measures 3.5-7
3.5.2 Land Use 3.5-8
3.5.2.1 Existing Conditions 3.5-8
3.5.2.2 Environmental Impacts 3.5-10
3.5.2.3 Mitigative Measures 3.5-10
3.5.3 Historic and Archeologic Resources 3.5-11
3.5.3.1 Existing Conditions 3.5-11
3.5.3.2 Environmental Impacts 3.5-11
3.5.3.3 Mitigative Measures 3.5-12
3.5.4 Noise 3.5-12
3.5.4.1 Existing Conditions 3.5-12
3.5.4.2 Environmental Impacts 3.5-13
3.5.4.3 Mitigative Measures 3.5-15
3.6 Radiology 3.6-1
3.6.1 Existing Conditions 3.6-1
3.6.1.1 Radionuclide Contents of Subsurface
Materials 3.6-1
3.6.1.2 MCC Site Sampling Program 3.6-1
3.6.2 Environmental Impacts 3.6-4
3.6.2.1 MCC's Proposed Action 3.6-4
3.6.2.2 Alternatives 3.6-7
3.6.3 Mitigation 3.6-12
4.0 OTHER NEPA REQUIREMfNTS (MCC's PROPOSED ACTION 4.1-1
4.1 Unavoidable Adverse Impacts 4.1-1
4.1.1 Geology/Soils 4.1-1
4.1.2 Surface Water Resources 4.1-1
4.1.3 Ground Water Resources 4.1-2
4.1.4 Terrestrial Biology 4.1-3
4.1.5 Wetlands and Aquatic Habitat 4.1-3
4.1.6 Threatened or Endangered Species 4.1-4
xxm
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TABLE OF CONTENTS (Continued)
Section - page
4.1.7 Air Resources 4.1-4
4.1.8 Socioeconomics 4.1-4
4.1.9 Land Use 4.1-4
4.1.10 Historic and Archeologic Resources 4.1-4
4.1.11 Noise 4.1-4
4.1.12 Radiology 4.1-5
4.2 Relationship Between Short-term Uses of Man's
Environment and the Maintenance and Enhancement of
Long-Term Productivity 4.2-1
4.2.1 Land Use 4.2-1
4.2.1.1 Long-Term Pre-Emptive Use of Land . 4.2-1
4.2.1.2 Regional Significance of Pre-Emptive
Land Use 4.2-1
4.2.2 Water Use 4.2-1
4.2.2.1 Use of Ground Water . . 4.2-1
4.2.2.2 Use of Surface Water 4.2-2
4.2.2.3 Consumptive Use of Water Resources . 4.2-2
4.2.3 Use of Air Resources 4.2-3
4.2.4 Energy Use 4.2-3
4.2.5 Biology 4.2-3
4.3 Irreversible and Irretrievable Commitments of
Resources 4.3-1
4.4 Conflicts Between the Proposed Action and the
Objectives of Federal, Regional, State, and Local
Plans 4.4-1
4.4.1 Federal 4.4-1
4.4.1.1 Central Florida Phosphate Industry
Areawide EIS Recommendations .... 4.4-1
4.4.1.2 Corps of Engineers Section 404
(Dredge and Fill Disposal) Permit. . 4.4-13
4.4.1.3 NPDES Discharge Permit 4.4-13
4.4.1.4 PSD Permit . 4.4-13
4.4.2 State of Florida 4.4-14
4.4.2.1 Department of Environmental Regula-
tion Construction Permit 4.4-14
xxiv
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TABLE OF CONTENTS (Continued)
Section Page
4.4.2.2 Construction and Operation of
Potential Sources of Water
Pollution 4.4-14
4.4.2.3 Dredging and Filling 4.4-14
4.4.2.4 Consumptive Water Use 4.4-14
4.4.3 Hardee County 4.4-15
4.4.3.1 Zoning Regulations 4.4-15
4.4.3.2 Mining Ordinance 4.4-15
LIST OF PREPARERS
COORDINATION
INDEX
APPENDIX A - Draft NPDES PERMIT
APPENDIX B - PREVENTION OF SIGNIFICANT DETERIORATION,
PRELIMINARY DETERMINATION
APPENDIX C - HARDEE COUNTY DEVELOPMENT ORDER
APPENDIX D - CONSUMPTIVE USE PERMIT
APPENDIX E - CULTURAL AND ARCHEOLOGICAL CONSULTATION
APPENDIX F - SECTION 7 ENDANGERED SPECIES ACT CONSULTATION
TECHNICAL SUPPORT DOCUMENTS:
I. ALTERNATIVES (Rock Dryer)
1.0 Introduction I-l
1.1 Background I-l
1.2 Alternatives I-l
1.3 Analysis Methodology 1-2
2.0 Rock Dryer at Mine (Proposed by MCC) 1-3
2.1 Description of Phosphate Rock Handling,
Transportation, and Processing System . . 1-3
2.2 Environmental Considerations 1-3
2.3 Technical and Economic Considerations . . 1-6
xxv
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TABLE OF CONTENTS (Continued)
Section - Page
3.0 Rock Dryer at Chemical Plant
(Alternative No. 1) 1-7
3.1 Description of Phosphate Rock Handling,
Transportation, and Processing System . . 1-7
3.2 Environmental Considerations 1-7
3.3 Technical and Economic Considerations . . 1-9
4.0 No Rock Dryer (Alternative No. 2) 1-11
4.1 Description of Phosphate Rock Handling,
Transportation, and Processing System . . 1-11
4.2 Environmental Considerations 1-11
4.3 Technical and Economic Considerations . . 1-14
5.0 Summary of Comparison of Alternatives 1-16
5.1 Comparison of Basic Alternatives for
Pascagoula Delivery of Phosphate Rock . . 1-16
5.2 Comparison of Alternatives for Delivery
to Other Customers 1-17
5.3 Summary 1-19
II. BIOLOGY
1.0 Introduction II-l
2.0 Primary Concerns - General Considerations . . . II-3
2.1 Wetlands II-3
2.2 Streams Over 5 cfs, Mean Annual Flow . . . II-3
2.3 Species of Special Concern II-4
3.0 Existing Conditions II-5
3.1 Terrestrial II-5
3.2 Wetlands 11-17
3.3 Aquatic 11-31
3.4 Threatened or Endangered Species 11-54
4.0 Ecosystem Dynamics 11-66
4.1 General II-66
5.0 Impacts ' 11-72
5.1 Terrestrial Ecosystems 11-72
5.2 Wetlands and Aquatic Ecosystems 11-76
5.3 Threatened or Endangered Species 11-83
xxvi
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TABLE OF CONTENTS (Continued)
Section Page
6.0 Mitigation of Impacts on Ecosystems 11-86
6.1 Terrestrial 11-86
6.2 Wetlands and Aquatic Systems 11-87
6.3 Threatened and Endangered Species .... 11-93
III. AIR RESOURCES
1.0 Climatology III-l
2.0 Existing Ambient Air Quality III-l
3.0 Environmental Impacts III-2
3.1 Rock Dryer at Ona (Proposed by MCC) ... 111-2
3.2 Dry Rock At Pascagoula (Alternative 1) . . 111-13
3.3 Process Wet Rock at Pascagoula
(Alternative 2) 111-20
3.4 Summary of Alternative Effects 111-24
4.0 Mitigative Measures 111-25
4.1 Dry Rock at Mine Site (Proposed by MCC) . 111-25
4.2 Dry Rock at Pascagoula Site
(Alternative 1) 111-26
4.3 Wet Rock Processing (Alternative 2) ... 111-27
IV. HUMAN RESOURCES
1.0 Socioeconomics and Transportation IV-1
1.1 Existing Conditions IV-1
1.2 Environmental Impacts IV-8
1.3 Mitigative Measures IV-14
2.0 Land Use .' IV-15
2.1 Existing Conditions IV-15
2.2 Environmental Impacts IV-18
2.3 Mitigative Measures IV-19
3.0 Noise IV-20
3.1 Existing Conditions IV-20
3.2 Environmental Impacts IV-25
3.3 Mitigative Measures IV-30
xxvn
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TABLE OF CONTENTS (Continued)
Section
Page
V. RADIOLOGY
1.0 Introduction V-l
1.1 Scope V-l
1.2 Summary of Baseline Conditions and
Radiological Impacts V-2
1.3 Conclusions V-3
2.0 Existing Conditions V-5
2.1 Introduction V-5
2.2 Radionuclides in Phosphate V-5
2.3 Radiological Baseline Monitoring Program . V-10
2.4 Subsurface Radioactivity V-ll
2.5 Terrestrial Radiation V-13
2.6 Radon Flux and Airborne Radioactivity . . V-15
2.7 Radiological Water Quality V-18
3.0 Impacts of Proposed Operations V-21
3.1 Conventional Waste Disposal/Land-and-
Lakes Reclamation V-21
3.2 Sand-Clay Cap Waste Disposal (Proposed
by MCC) V-33
xxvm
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LIST OF TABLES
2.0-1 Project Alternatives.
2.7-1 Comparison of MCC Rock Drying Alternatives.
2.8-1 Proposed Waste Disposal/Reclamation Plan: Approximate
Acreages Affected.
2.10-1 Preservation Alternatives.
2.11-1 Energy Use for Product Transport Alternatives.
3.1-1 Soil Characteristics of the MCC Site.
3.1.2 Agricultural Capability Classes.
3.2-1 Streams Receiving MCC Site Drainage.
3.2-2 Water Quality Summary, Peace River and Horse Creek
Basins.
3.2-3 Water Quality Summary, Brushy and Oak Creeks.
3.2-4 Chemical Composition of Effluent Discharge.
3.2-5 Effluent Limitations for New Sources.
3.2-6 Effects of Effluent Discharge on Ambient Water Quality.
3.2-7 Hydraulic Parameters of Limestone Units.
3.2-8 Mississippi Chemical Corporation Results of Ground Water
Quality Analyses.
3.2-9 Water Well Inventory.
3.3-1 Present Acreages of Vegetative Communities and Acreages
Affected by Proposed Mining, Clay Storage, and/or
Reclamation Plans.
3.3-2 Time-Phased Progression of Wetlands Lost and Streams
Affected by Proposed Mining and Clay Storage Plans and
Gains of Wetlands by Proposed Reclamation Plan.
3.3-3 Potential Impacts on Threatened or Endangered Species.
xxix
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LIST OF TABLES (Continued)
3.4-1 Monthly and Annual Mean and Extreme Rainfall at
Wauchula, Florida.
3.4-2 National (NAAQS) and Florida (FAAQS) Ambient Air Quality
Standards for Pollutants Emitted by the Proposed MCC
Phosphate Project.
3.4-3 Summary of Extreme Air Quality Measurements from 1977
through Mid-1980 in the Vicinity of the Proposed MCC
Rock Dryer.
3.4-4 Estimated Atmospheric Emissions, MCC Complex, With
Controls.
3.4-5 Estimated Atmospheric Emissions, MCC Complex, Without
Controls
3.4-6 Maximum Calculated Ground-Level Concentrations for
Criteria Pollutants Emitted by the Proposed MCC
Complex.
3.4-7 Highest, Second-Highest Calculated Short-Term S02
and PM Concentration (pg/m3) for Proposed MCC Complex,
Interaction Sources and Allowable PSD Class II Increments,
3.4-8 Summary of PSD Increment Consumption Results for
Proposed MCC Complex.
3.5-1 Summary of Environmental Sound Levels.
3.6-1 Radium-226 Concentrations of Materials on MCC Site
Before and After Reclamation (pCi/g).
3.6-2 Summary of Radiological Parameters - Sand/Clay Mix Cap
Reclamation Plan (Proposed).
XXX
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LIST OF FIGURES (Continued)
2.10-6 Functionally Important Wetlands Systems on MCC Property.
2.10-7 Proposed Final Wetlands Configuration.
2.10-8 Wetlands Losses and Replacement Over the MCC Project Life.
3.1-1 Existing MCC Site Topography.
3.1-2 Wicomico/Penholoway Escarpment - Regional View.
3.1-3 Generalized Hydrogeologic Section.
3.1-4 Soils on the MCC Site.
3.2-1 Location of the MCC site in the Peace River Basin.
3.2-2 Surface Drainage Pattern from the Hardee County Mine
Site to Horse Creek and the Peace River.
3.2-3 The 2-Year, 25-Year, and 100-Year Flood Boundaries of Oak
and Brushy Creeks.
3.2-4 Extent of Potential Slime Waste Flood from Dam Failure.
3.2-5 Geologic Cross Sections of the Near-Surface Geology.
3.2-6 Water-Table Elevations, May 12-14, 1976.
3.2-7 Water-Table Elevations, July 26, 1976.
3.2-8 Existing Wells on Property.
3.2-9 Location of Proposed Points of Withdrawal.
3.2-10 Cone of Depression Resulting from Pumping the Proposed
Well Field at an Average of 7,974 GPM (11.48 mgd).
3.2-11 Existing Well Locations in Ona, Florida.
3.2-12 Projected Cone of Depression Resulting from Sealing Water
Withdrawals from the Upper Floridan Aquifer.
3.2-13 Water Level Declines with Distance from a Mining Cut as
Related to Thickness of the Shallow Water-Table Aquifer.
xxx n
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LIST OF FIGURES (Continued)
3.3-1 Vegetation Map of MCC Property.
3.3.2 MCC Property Drainage.
3.4-1 Locations of Air Quality Monitors in the Vicinity of
the Proposed MCC Rock Dryer Site.
3.5-1 Archaeological Sites on MCC Property.
3.5-2 Location of Sound Monitoring Stations.
3.6-1 Subsurface Structure of the MCC Site.
3.6-2 Direct Gamma Radiation (uR/hr) in Composite Soil Cores,
xxxm
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1.0 PURPOSE AND NEED FOR ACTION
1.1 REGULATORY ACTION
Under provisions of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act, as
amended by the Clean Water Act of 1977 (33 U.S.C. 1251 et seq.), Mis-
sissippi Chemical Corporation (MCC), the Applicant, has applied to the
United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) for a National
Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit for the proposed
Hardee County Florida phosphate mine and beneficiation plant. In com-
pliance with its responsibility under the National Environmental Policy
Act (NEPA) of 1969, the USEPA has determined that issuance of an NPDES
permit for the proposed project would constitute a major federal action
significantly affecting the quality of the human environment. Pursuant
to Council of Environmental Quality and USEPA procedures for imple-
menting NEPA, this draft environmental impact statement (DEIS) has been
prepared to provide federal, state, and local agencies and the con-
cerned public with sufficient and comprehensible information to deter-
mine whether the project should be permitted and whether its probable
impacts have been accurately assessed and adequately mitigated. The
DEIS was prepared by a third party contractor (Dames & Moore), as
provided for in the USEPA1s implementing procedures. All work com-
pleted by Dames & Moore was reviewed by the USEPA before publication.
The USEPA also has the authority to issue or deny a Permit for
Significant Deterioration (PSD) for the proposed project pursuant to
the Clean Air Act of 1977. In addition, the proposed act.ion will
require Section 404 permits from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers under
the Federal Water Pollution Control Act Amendment of 1972. The Army
Corps of Engineers administers this regulatory program and must deter-
mine whether the DEIS and FEIS on this project adequately fulfill the
Corp's NEPA responsibility and whether issuance of the permit is in the
public interest. The Corps of Engineers, Jacksonville District, is the
cooperating agency for this DEIS.
1.0-1
-------
1.2 MISSISSIPPI CHEMICAL CORPORATION ACTION
The purpose of Mississippi Chemical Corporation's (MCC) proposed
Hardee County, Florida mine and beneficiation plant is to remove
phosphate ore matrix from the ground, then remove the phosphate rock
product by washing and beneficiation, and finally return the waste sand
and clay to the mined areas for storage and eventual reclamation.
The necessity of this project can be described in terms of social,
technical, and economic needs.
Social needs: Society's present demand for food and fiber cannot
be met without the use of fertilizer. MCC plans to mine
phosphate rock for use in fertilizer production.
Economic Needs: The economic needs have far-reaching effects
throughout both the company and the local community. MCC is a
farmer-owned fertilizer manufacturing cooperative. Sale of
stock in MCC commits the company to deliver fertilizer to the
farmer-owners. Fulfillment of that commitment requires the
company to maintain an adequate, dependable supply of necessary
raw materials. In the past, this requirement was fulfilled by
long-term contracts, but in the last decade, it has become
impossible to obtain long-term contracts for raw materials at
reasonable terms. Therefore, the company obtained a large
potash deposit; entered into a joint venture for gas and oil
exploration to obtain supplies of natural gas to manufacture
ammonia; obtained supplies of sulfur to make sulfuric acid; and
purchased the tract of land presently under consideration to
supply the need for phosphate rock. Approximately 1 million
tons of phosphate rock per year from the proposed mine would be
transported to MCC's Pascagoula, Mississippi fertilizer plant.
The remaining 2 million tons per year would be sold to provide
the income necessary to make the mining operation economically
viable. MCC is actively seeking a partner to participate in
1.0-2
-------
the proposed mining venture and to use that portion of the
production above MCC's needs.
Then the company's economic need translates into the economic
need of its farmer-owners. Farmers use fertilizer because it
increases their profit, by increasing the yield from a given
parcel of land.
Technical Needs: The MCC property presents some new, though not
unique, problems that require technical solutions in order to
permit efficient mining of the phosphate ore. As with many
phosphate lands in central Florida that are currently being
opened, the MCC tract has shallow overburden and deep matrix
along with a high clay and low phosphate content. The techni-
cal expertise gained from the MCC project would become avail-
able to future phosphate mine operations in central Florida.
1.0-3
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2.0 ALTERNATIVES EVALUATION
Prior to the development of a mineral deposit, appropriate mining
and processing methods must be identified and selected. A number of
factors must be considered in the selection of the methods used in
order to ensure cost-effective recovery of the mineral resource with
efficient and environmentally acceptable use of land and water, energy,
and other resources, and with subsequent reclamation of the disturbed
land for useful purposes. As part of its responsibilities under the
National Environmental Policy Act, the USEPA must evaluate viable al-
ternatives to any proposed action. Alternatives considered for this
project are listed in Table 2.0-1. A summary of the proposed action
appears in this section while more detailed information on the proposed
action and the other alternatives is presented in Sections 2.1 through
2.14.
Mississippi Chemical Corporation plans to develop a phosphate mine
and beneficiation plant on approximately 23 square miles (14,850 acres)
which it presently owns or controls, located 10 miles west of Wauchula
in west central Hardee County (Figure 2.0-1). About 9,000 acres on
this site have economically mineable reserves of phosphate ore. Site
preparation and construction of the beneficiation plant is planned to
commence in mid-1983 and to be completed i-n about two years. Mining
would cover a 32-year period, with an average annual production rate of
3 million tons of phosphate rock.
The proposed master mining plan is based on such considerations as
process requirements, equipment design and utilization, ore grade and
production requirements, environmental concerns, waste disposal plan-
ning, water recirculation and reclamation objectives (MCC, 1977). As
the project evolves and planning details are developed, the mining
sequence may be adjusted to accommodate geological, engineering, pro-
duction, and environmental concerns. Under the proposed plan, MCC
would mine the site with two large draglines working independently of
each other. The areas to be mined and the expected mining sequence are
shown on Figure 2.0-2.
2.1-1
-------
The excavated phosphate ore would be made into a slurry and pumped
to the beneficiation plant where the clay wastes and larger phosphate
pebble would be removed by washing and screening. Then a flotation
process would separate the remaining phosphate particles from the sand.
This phosphate product would be allowed to drain, after which it might
be dried and stored in silos near the plant. The rock would be shipped
from the plant by railroad and barge to MCC's fertilizer plant at
Pascagoula, Mississippi, and to other users of phosphate rock.
Handling of the waste clays and sand is an integral part of the waste
disposal/reclamation process.
The MCC mining operation .would use concurrent mining-reclamation
methods to allow rapid and economic reclamation of mined-out areas and
to comply with the Hardee County Mining and Earth Moving Ordinance as
well as all other applicable laws.
Various methods of reclamation are planned, including sand fill
reclamation, clay settling area reclamation, and sand/clay capping.
The use of a reclamation method in any area would be based upon the
location and the nature of the disturbance. Reclamation of each mined
area would be completed within two years following active mineral ex-
traction, except for those areas used as clay settling areas. Clay
settling areas would require from five to ten years before they were
are sufficiently dewatered for grading and planting.
*
2.1 MINING METHOD
The factors that must be considered in the selection of a mining
method for extraction of mineral deposits include: 1) the spatial
characteristics of the deposit (such as size, shape, attitude or dip
and strike of deposit, and depth); 2) the physical properties of the
mineral deposit and the surrounding rock or sediments; 3) hydrologic
conditions of the ground and surface waters; 4) economic factors,
including grade of the ore (matrix), comparative mining costs, and
desired production rates; and 5) environmental impacts of the mining
and processing activities, including loss of critical habitats, effects
2.1-2
-------
on threatened or endangered species, condition of the post mining land
surface after reclamation, and potential for air and water pollution.
Six different types of mineral deposits are recognized: massive,
bedded, narrow vein, wide vein, lenticular or pocket, and placer. The
phosphate deposits mined in central Florida are generally regarded as
bedded deposits. Such deposits are usually sedimentary layers which
parallel the layering of the surrounding rock units; the deposits are
usually laterally extensive and of limited thickness. The proximity of
the phosphate deposits to the land surface and the unconsolidated
nature of the overburden favor the use of surface mining methods for
the extraction 9f phosphate in Florida. Surface mining methods evalu-
ated for use at the proposed MCC mine in Hardee County are dragline,
dredge, and bucketwheel excavator (BWE). Prior to actual mining opera-
tions, all vegetation must be cleared from the land and provision made
for equipment access. These site preparation activities are common and
similar for all three methods of mining and thus are not addressed in
the following sections.
2.1.1 Dragline (Proposed by MCC)
2.1.1.1 System Description
Large, electric-powered, walking draglines, which have buckets
ranging from 7 to 65 cubic yards in capacity, are currently utilized
for strip mining in the Florida phosphate district. Dragline excava-
tors are essentially large cranes with a drag bucket on the hoist
cable. Loading is effected by pulling the bucket toward the machine
with a drag cable along the top layer of material. When the bucket is
filled, it is hoisted, and the boom and bucket are moved to the desired
dumping position. The empty bucket is then swung back to a suitable
position for the next loading cycle.
Mining cuts averaging 300 feet wide and up to a mile long are
excavated by the dragline by stripping and side casting the overburden
material into adjacent mined-out areas. The exposed matrix is then
mined and placed in a slurry pit located near the highwall.
2.1-3
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The size and number of draglines required for a mining operation
and the length and width of the mining cuts are determined by the
characteristics of the deposits, principally overburden and matrix
thickness; depth to water table; cohesiveness of the soils, and physi-
cal features such as property boundaries, power lines, road rights-of-
way, and post mining/reclamation land use.
The characteristics of MCC's Hardee County phosphate deposit and
the desired production levels are such that two large draglines, each
with a 45 cubic yard bucket capacity, will be required.
2.1.1.2 Environmental Considerations
Draglines are able to use electricity efficiently, thereby helping
to conserve energy. Recent studies (USEPA, 1979) indicate that drag-
line power consumption per ton of product is about half that of some
other mining methods. Draglines allow complete recovery of phosphate
matrix so that none of the resource is wasted . They also allow
efficient management (isolation) of the leach zone when this is neces-
sary. When draglines operate in "moist" conditions, fugitive dust is
reduced.
In addition to clearing of vegetation in areas to be mined or used
for waste disposal storage, which is common to all mining methods,
physical access must be provided for the draglines. Transport routes
should be selected to avoid disturbance of sensitive land uses which
would not otherwise be effected by mining operations. Stream crossings
are particularly sensitive to dragline movements.
When draglines are used, pits must be "dewatered" for efficient
mining. This dewatering can affect the water table of adjacent pro-
perty owners and sensitive habitats. Precautions will be taken to in-
sure that mining activities do not cause significant indirect adverse
impacts on sensitive habitats or on adjacent property owners.
2.1-4
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2.1.1.3 Technical Considerations
Walking draglines are versatile machines that perform optimally
when digging unconsolidated material. The long reach of the dragline
enables it to dig and move overburden and mine the matrix without
rehandling the materials.
Draglines can selectively mine and cast overburden. Of particular
importance in most Florida phosphate mining is the proper placement of
the leach zone material which often occurs at the point of overburden/
matrix contact. Draglines can selectively strip and place the leach
zone material (which is high in radioactivity) near the bottom of the
mining cut, subsequently covering the leach zone material with over-
burden spoils (Figure 2.1-1). However, MCC's Hardee County property
contains a relatively thin overburden above a thick (though lower
grade) matrix. The leach zone is not well defined and not always pre-
sent. The relatively small volume of overburden, including leach zone,
will all be placed at the bottom of the mine cut, and will be covered
by waste clays after reclamation (Figure 2.1-1). Selective leach zone
management is not required for the MCC operations.
Among the operating constraints of dragline usage is the require-
ment for essentially dry conditions in the mining cut for safety and
optimum matrix recovery. High water table conditions in the overburden
combined with unfavorable soil conditions, can result in high wall
failures, which may be a safety hazard. In addition, efficient matrix
recovery is dependent upon the ability of the dragline operator to
detect the matrix horizons. Excessive water in the mine cut hinders
proper matrix horizon identification. Normal dragline operation, with
pit dewatering, provides good control of the mine cut and matrix.
2.1.2 Dredge
2.1.2.1 System Description
In the past, dredges were used to a limited extent in Florida
phosphate mining; at present, dredges are used in North Carolina to
2.1-5
-------
partially strip overburden. Dredges provide a means for excavating
submerged overburden and matrix. A typical dredge design consists of
excavating equipment mounted on a barge; this provides mobility in the
area overlying the ore body. The excavating part of the dredge is
generally supported on a boom at the forward end. Several spuds, or
retractable anchor posts, are generally located on the stern to hold it
in a stable position and to allow pivoting.
There are two main dredge types, mechanical and hydraulic.
Mechanical dredges excavate bulk material and fall principally into the
following general categories: 1) grapple dredge, a dry land clamshell
or dragline mounted on a barge; 2) dipper dredge, a barge-mounted power
shovel; and 3) bucket ladder dredge, a chain of buckets moving from the
work face to a point above the surface of the water.
Hydraulic dredges continuously remove sediments through the suc-
tion of a dredge pump, supplemented by mechanical excavators, when
necessary. The principal types of hydraulic dredge employed in the
mining industry are: 1) p.lain suction, the simplest form of hydraulic
dredge which utilizes no excavator; and 2) cutterhead pipeline dredge,
which is similar to the plain suction dredge but is equipped with a
rotating cutter surrounding the intake end of the suction pipe. The
cutterhead pipeline dredge is considered to be the most appropriate for
use in Florida phosphate mining operations.
In order to mine MCC's Hardee County tract, at least two large
capacity dredges would be required, one to strip the overburden, the
other to mine the matrix. The overburden dredge would excavate at a
distance ahead of the matrix dredge. Overburden material would be
pumped to reclaim previously-mined areas. Decanted water from the
overburden slurry would flow back to the dredge pond and be recir-
culated. The matrix dredge would excavate phosphate ore, and the
resulting slurry would be pumped to the beneficiation plant.
2.1-6
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2.1.2.2 Environmental Considerations
Dredge systems are high energy users, and high water consumption
is also characteristic of dredging operations- due to water entrainment
in clays and evaporation from the dredge ponds. Since a dredge cannot
selectively spoil lenses of non-phosphate bearing material within the
matrix zone, dilution of the ore occurs. This results in the transport
of a lower phosphate to waste ratio to the beneficiation plant. Leach
zone management is also difficult in dredging activities. As the clay
is thoroughly saturated with water, this method results in maximum
volumes of waste for disposal. Dewatering of the overburden is not
necessary when overburden is being stripped, but some dewatering of the
unstripped overburden is required during matrix recovery. It is neces-
sary to lower the dredge pond level to accommodate the working length
of the ladder and mine the entire matrix thickness.
2.1.2.3 Technical Considerations
The unique feature of the dredge is its ability to mine materials
submerged in water. Most dredges are electric-powered and perform well
when mining unconsolidated, sandy material.
Unlike dragline operations, dredging does not allow the operator
to visually observe the phosphate matrix/bedrock contact. Therefore,
detailed mapping of the matrix horizon contacts is required to ensure
maximum recovery and to avoid dilution of the phosphate matrix.
2.1.3 Bucket Wheel Excavation
2.1.3.1 System Description
Bucket wheel excavators are not presently employed in the central
Florida phosphate district; however, they have been considered by most
mining companies as alternatives to draglines. A BWE is a large,
rotating wheel with a number of fixed buckets on its periphery which
excavate the overburden and matrix. The material is discharged to an
attached belt conveyor system that can, in turn, discharge to belt con-
veyors, trucks, or other haulage systems. Generally, BWEs are equipped
2.1-7
-------
with crawlers to give better mobility and allow continuous use on
various working levels.
Selecting a BWE requires consideration of several complex factors.
Unlike draglines, BWE design must be based on specific project operat-
ing standards to meet production requirements. Mining of MCC's Hardee
County phosphate deposit would require a total of four BWEs. The BWEs
would be paired; one excavator would strip overburden while the other
would excavate matrix.
2.1.3.2 Environmental Considerations
Bucket wheel excavators consume more energy than draglines when
used in the type material encountered on the MCC property. It is also
necessary for the pit to be kept "dry during operation. This is not an
easy task during the rainy summer months. The BWE's allow efficient
leach zone management and complete recovery of the phosphate ore.
2.1.3.3 Technical Considerations
Bucket wheel excavators can dig materials such as hard phosphate,
sandstone overburden, and bauxite that other equipment cannot handle
without prior blasting. They use more energy than draglines due to the
need for accessory conveyors to transport mined material out of the
pit. However, as harder material is encountered, draglines become more
energy-intensive, thus lessening the energy advantage of the dragline.
Since the overburden and ore in the proposed mining area are not very
hard, the hard material advantage of BWEs is not very important. The
BWE equipment can provide leach zone management and closely controlled
selective mining in interbedded ore and overburden zones, resulting in
good ore recovery.
Among the BWE's disadvantages is its requirement for a completely
dry pit. Since the BWE works in the pit, a high wall failure could
damage equipment and injure miners. This method does not have the
degree of flexibility for discarding waste materials as does the drag-
line method. Also, there is a relatively high initial capital cost.
2.1-8
-------
2.1.4 Summary
Draglines are considered the most preferable mining method from an
environmental standpoint. Both draglines and bucketwheel excavators
will remove essentially all of the phosphate matrix. Both require
dewatering of the mine cut, but this is most critical with the BWE.
The dragline is the most energy efficient of the three methods.
The dredge system has the lowest energy efficiency, highest water
consumption, and creates the largest volumes of clay wastes.
2.1-9
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TABLE 2.0-1
PROJECT ALTERNATIVES
Page 1 of 2
1. Mining Method
a. Dragline (Proposed by MCC)
b. Dredge
c. Bucket Wheel Excavation
2. Plant Site Location
a. Vandolah Location (Proposed by MCC)
b. Centroid of Phosphate Ore Processing
c. Centroid of Mining and Waste Disposal
3. Matrix Transport
a. Slurry Pipeline (Proposed by MCC)
b. Conveyor Belt
c. Trucking
4. Ore Processing
a. Wet Process Beneficiation (Proposed by MCC)
b. Dry Separation
c. Direct Acidulation
5. Process Water Sources
a. Surface Water
b. Ground Water
c. Combination of Surface and Ground Water (Proposed by MCC)
6. Liquid Effluent Disposal Alternatives
a. Surface Water Discharge (Proposed by MCC)
b. Ground Water Discharge
7. Rock Drying
a. Rock Dryer at Ona (Proposed by MCC)
b. Rock Dryer at Chemical Plant
c. No Rock Dryer
8. Waste Disposal
a. Conventional Method
b. Sand/Clay Mixing Method
c. Conventional Disposal Plus Sand/Clay Capping (Proposed by MCC)
9. Reclamation
a. Conventional Method
b. Sand/Clay Mixing Method
c. Conventional Method with Sand/Clay Capping (Proposed by MCC)
-------
TABLE 2.0-1 (Continued) Page 2 of 2
10. Wetlands Preservation
a. Wetlands Preserved Under Florida DER Development Order
(Proposed by MCC)
b. Wetlands Preserved Under USEPA Areawide Categorization of
Wetlands
c. Wetlands Preserved Under Site-Specific Application of USEPA
Criteria
d. Wetlands Preserved Under Systems Approach
11. Product Transport
a. Railroad to Tampa; Barge to Pascagoula or Other Customer
(Proposed by MCC)
b. Truck to Tampa; Barge to Pascagoula
c. Slurry Pipeline to Tampa; Barge to Pascagoula
d. Railroad to Pascagoula
12. No Action
13. Postponement of Action
14. USEPA Preferred Alternative and Recommended Action
-------
SOURCE: MCC, 1977.
\
\
-i'^i.vr, 9 n_l MTf! Mino ^ito Inrstinn
-------
After: MCC, 1977.
SCALE IN MILES
LEGEND
AREAS TO BE MINED
DRAGLINE 1
DRAGLINE 2
Figure 2.0-2. Mining Unit Sequence
-------
•SUCCESSIVE
DRAGLINE CUTS
WASTE CLAY
OVERBURDEN (OB)
LEACH ZONE
(a) Selective Isolation of Leach Zone in Standard Florida
Phosphate Mine Dragline Operation.
I-LL-DEFINED LEACH ZONE
WASTE CLAY
OVERBURDEN
\ \
\ «•
.» »„» »o" °<
I oo I oo I oo
0.0 0.0 0.0
10 " 00 ° 00 ? O
MATR IX ' "<
O ' ' O ' O <
0_0 00' 00
o o o oo o
' 00 ° 00 ! 00 «
,» "o" °o° "c
•^
(b) MCC Hardee County Mine Dragline Operation - Leach Zone and
Overburden Effectively Covered with Clay.
Figure 2.1-1.
Schematic of Dragline Operation and Reclamation
Cross-Section for Hardee County Mine and Typical
Florida Phosphate Mine.
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2.2 PLANT SITE LOCATION
2.2.1 Site Description and Technical Considerations
Major elements in the plant area include the washer, feed prepara-
tion, feed storage, reagent storage, flotation section, and wet rock
storage. Support facilities and product shipment facilities located at
the plant site include the plant office, maintenance and utility area,
rock dryer and fuel oil storage, dry rock silos, load out area and
railroad sidings. These beneficiation and supporting facilities
require 160 acres of land.
The conceptual layout of the MCC plant facilities is shown on
Figure 2.2-1. A number of variables must be considered when locating
the beneficiation site for mining operations. These variables must be
carefully weighed, and a compromise which considers the following
elements must be reached:
Minimization of the loss of phosphate resources under the plant
location;
Minimization of the cost and consumption of energy required for
movement of water, ore, and waste products;
Minimization of the extent and cost of transportation and power
to and from the plant site. This includes items such as rail-
roads and the existing transportation network (for goods, ser-
vices, product, and workers);
Minimization of the destruction of environmentally sensitive
areas.
Consideration of the above elements resulted in three potential
plant sites identified as the following and shown on Figure 2.2-2:
0 Vandolah Site - NE corner of Section 20, T34S, R24E
Centroid of phosphate ore processing - SW corner of Section 30,
T34S, R24E;
2.2-1
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Centroid of waste disposal and mining - SW corner of Section 20,
T34S, R24E;
2.2.1.1 Vandolah Location (Proposed by MCC)
An unmineable tract of land along the Fort Green - Ona Road just
west of the north-south rail line was considered for plant site loca-
tion (Figure 2.2-2).
This site is in close proximity to existing rail lines and road-
ways, thereby minimizing the expense and loss of reserves associated
with the construction of these facilities. Ground water supply wells
are nearby, the site is close to the first waste disposal area (MC-1),
and it is less than one mile from the ore and waste transportation
centroid (Figure 2.2-2). Thus, energy consumption for material trans-
portation is not substantially higher than that expected for plant
location at the ore and waste transportation centroid.
The most significant drawback to the use of this site is the con-
siderable distance between it and the surface water reservoir on Brushy
Creek.
2.2.1.2 Centroid of Phosphate Ore Processing
Mining companies generally locate their plant sites at a point
which minimizes the distance that the ore is transported to the plant.
This point is known as the ore centroid. The ore centroid for the
proposed site was calculated as a point in the northeast corner of
Section 30, T34S, R24E (Figure 2.2-2). A major east-west highway, SR
64, runs near the area.
There are also disadvantages associated with using this site for
location of the MCC beneficiation plant. First, it is a considerable
distance from the north-south rail line and will require construction
of approximately 2 miles of rail track. The rail line would cross Oak
Creek, thereby requiring the construction of creek crossings. Phos-
phate reserves located under the railroad would not be recoverable.
2.2-2
-------
Another disadvantage is that the ground water supply is a considerable
distance from this proposed plant location.
2.2.1.3 Centroid of Mining and Waste Disposal
A point in the southwest corner of Section 20, T34S, R24E (Figure
2.2-2) was identified as the optimal site for the beneficiation plant
when both waste and ore transportation requirements were considered.
Technical advantages associated with this plant site location include
reduced energy consumption and reduced transportation of ore and waste
(including capital and operating costs).
Among the disadvantages related to the use of the mining and waste
disposal centroid for plant site location is the necessity for shifting
the plant slightly southwest of the optimal location onto unmineable
lands; this would be necessary to minimize the loss of phosphate re-
serves. In addition, plant construction at this centroid would require
both rail and roadway construction, resulting not only in increased
construction expenses, but also a loss of phosphate reserves. In addi-
tion to these disadvantages, relocation of the .waste disposal areas
would be required if this centroid were selected for the plant site.
While this centroid is closer to the ground water supply wells than the
ore processing centroid, it would still be necessary to transport well
water approximately one mile to the plant site.
2.2.2 Environmental Considerations
There are no particular environmental advantages or disadvantages
associated with locating the plant at any of the sites considered.
Each of the alternative sites would ultimately be disturbed either as a
result of mining activities (waste disposal and mining centroid sites)
or waste disposal (Vandolah site) if the plant were located elsewhere.
2.2.3 Summary
There is no substantial difference in environmental effects as-
sociated with the three candidate plant site locations. The "proposed
2.2-3
-------
(Vandolah) site requires minimum construction of rail lines and road-
ways and is close to the ground water wells. Energy consumption from
ore and waste transport would be slightly higher, and the surface water
source would betconsiderably distant. The ore centroid location would
require construction of a 2-mile rail line (with associated phosphate
reserve losses) across Oak Creek and is a considerable distance from
ground water supplies. Finally, the centroid of both waste and ore
transportation locations would minimize energy consumption. However,
it would be necessary to construct rail and roadways; waste disposal
sites would have to be relocated; and ground water would have to be
pumped approximately one mile.
2.2-4
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ro
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ro
-o
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10
-------
28
27
LEGEND:
23
MINEABLE AREAS
UNMINEABLE AREAS
MINING/WASTE
DISPOSAL
CENTROID
\r,.:~n 9 00 ni-fo^na-HviQ Dlanf Qita Inr-atinnc
-------
2.3 MATRIX TRANSPORT
After the matrix is exposed and excavated, it must be transferred
to the beneficiation plant. Because of the large volume of material
that must be moved, all methods of transporting the matrix to the plant
area are energy intensive. The transport method used should have mini-
mal effect on the environment and relatively low cost. Alternative
methods of transporting the matrix from the mine to the beneficiation
plant which were evaluated for use at the proposed MCC mine are slurry
pipeline, conveyor, and truck.
2.3.1 Slurry Pipeline (Proposed by MCC)
2.3.1.1 System Description
The pipeline matrix transportation system is currently being used
in all but one phosphate mining operation in the central Florida
district. In this system, the excavated matrix is stacked at natural
ground level outside the cutline and dumped into a slurry pit or
"well." Hydraulic guns break up and slurrify the matrix to a pumpable
mixture. Grizzlies prevent oversize rocks and other material from
entering the pit pump. The matrix slurry is pumped through pipelines
to the beneficiation plant. Slurry may be pumped distances up to 6
miles.
MCC's matrix transportation would require two independent pipeline
systems which would extend from each of MCC's two mining locations to
the beneficiation plant. Both pipeline systems would be similar to
those presently in use elsewhere in the central Florida phosphate
district and would consist of a slurrification pit, slurrification pit
guns, a grizzly screen, a pit pump, booster pumps, and the actual pipe-
line. The slurrification pit would be approximately 150 feet in dia-
meter, with the pit guns located at the pit discharge just before the
point where the matrix enters the pipeline. The pit pump would initi-
ate the matrix transfer process by "lifting" the matrix out of the
slurrification pit into the pipeline. The matrix pipeline would be
approximately 20 inches in diameter and would have booster pumps spaced
2.3-1
-------
approximately 3/4 mile apart along its length. The locations of the
matrix booster pumps would vary due to the size and availability of the
individual pumps to be used and the topography of the transportation
route.
2.3.1.2 Environmental Considerations
Vegetation would be removed and wildlife disturbed along a narrow
strip of land where the transport system is situated.
The pipeline system is energy intensive in that slurry water would
be added to the matrix, and the mixture would then be transported to
the beneficiation plant. However, the high energy consumption would be
offset somewhat by the lack of secondary handling requirements such as
that needed for a conveyor system.
Matrix transported in a slurry system would be closed to the
atmosphere and, consequently, would not be a source of air pollutants.
Therefore, air pollution equipment would not be needed in a hydraulic
transportation system, and the energy required to operate such equip-
ment would be saved.
Pipeline or pump failure could result in spillage of the matrix
slurry. However, the possibility of this occurrence is minimized in
the phosphate industry through the use of operation and preventive
maintenance practices (such as pipeline inspection and rotation, low
pressure shutoff system; stand pipes) and implementation of safeguards
which meet or exceed state regulatory guidelines (Florida Administra-
tive Code, Chapter 17-9).
2.3.1.3 Technical Considerations
Hydraulic transportation can move large volumes of matrix over
adverse ground conditions; slurry pumping aids in the disaggregation of
the matrix prior to its arrival at the washer system. It is a highly
mobile system which can be readily adapted to the frequent changes in
mine locations and is not sensitive to weather conditions. Finally,
slurry pumping systems are a proven technology with which the industry
2.3-2
-------
has substantial experience and capability to handle problems which may
arise in the field.
Initial pipeline slurry water for MCC operations would be obtained
from both ground water and surface water sources. Less than 5 percent
of the start-up slurry water volume (which is 142 MGD, see Figure
2.5-1) would be required during normal operations to make up evapora-
tive water losses.
2.3.2 Conveyor Belt
2.3.2.1 System Description
In recent years, conveyor systems have been considered by most
phosphate mining companies as an alternative method for matrix trans-
port. Presently, one phosphate company in Florida is using a conveyor
belt system, but this system has not been totally successful to date.
A conveyor belt is an arrangement of mechanical components which
supports and propels the belt that, in turn, carries the bulk material
being transported. It is a system designed for continuous transporta-
tion of bulk material and, if the matrix ore can be loaded at a uniform
rate and the total quantity of matrix to be transported justifies this
system, it can be the most economical and energy efficient system to
operate.
As with pipeline matrix transport, two independent conveyor
systems would be required to transfer the matrix from MCC's two mining
areas to the beneficiation plant. To transport the required amount of
matrix from the mining areas to the beneficiation area, 36-inch wide
conveyor systems would be utilized.
2.3.2.2 Environmental Considerations
The impacts of the conveyor transport system are similar to those
described in Section 2.3.1.2 for pipeline systems except that slurry
water is not required for conveyor transport. In addition, conveyor
transport requires dewatering of the matrix prior to transportation.
Transfer points along the conveyor route would be sources of fugitive
emissions of dust which would have local effects on air quality.
2.3-3
-------
2.3.2.3 Technical Considerations
The design of a conveyor belt system for a specific use requires
consideration of such basic factors as: the characteristics of the
material to be conveyed (density, lump size, fines, condition, particle
shape), the rate of transport, and the necessity of handling the
material at different rates. Generally, the characteristics of the
material to be transported must remain constant. To ensure this, the
matrix must be handled twice at the mine area: once from the mining
unit to a screening/dewatering unit and then to the conveyor system for
transport.
A further development related to the conveyor system transport
which is being studied involves desliming and scalping the matrix prior
to transport. The matrix would be transported to a small washing plant
where the oversized material would be crushed and passed through
cyclones and screw classifiers for dewatering prior to loading on the
belt. Waste from the cyclone overflow would be directed to waste or
reclamation fill areas.
Because the matrix must be dewatered and remain "dry" (70 to 80
percent solids) during transport, the conveyor system should be
enclosed. Once enclosed, the system would not be sensitive to precipi-
tation and would provide effective control of fugitive dust emissions.
Conveyor systems are not as mobile as pipeline systems, and the
capital and maintenance costs far exceed that of a pipeline system.
2.3.3 Trucking
Trucks have been used to a limited extent as a method of hauling
phosphate ore from the mine to the beneficiation plant in central
Florida phosphate mining operations. Truck haulage has been restricted
to some of the "debris" processing operations, which involve the
remitting of waste tailings from earlier mining activities. There has
been no major utilization of truck haulage to transport in-situ
phosphate ore from mine to plant in the central Florida phosphate
district. Successful truck haulage is generally confined to areas of
2.3-4
-------
the western United States where ore moisture content in mining opera-
tions is very low.
2.3.3.1 System Description
In order to keep energy consumption to a minimum, the tractor-
trailer haulage truck with its lower energy to tonnage hauled ratio was
chosen for illustrative purposes to evaluate this transportation
alternative. Most grades and slopes which could be expected in mining
the MCC tract are flat enough that the tractor trailer truck could be
used.
Projected annual processing schedules would require that 1,100
cubic yards per hour per mine site (two mining sites proposed) be
delivered to the plant. Based on 75 percent availability, this equates
to four operating front end loaders, two at each mine site to load the
trucks, and 16 trucks operating at approximately 70 tons per truck per
trip.
In addition to loading and haulage equipment, a facility to unload
and feed the phosphate ore into the washer/beneficiation plant would be
required.
2.3.3.2 Environmental Considerations
The impacts from utilizing a trucking operation for transporting
the ore would include disturbance of vegetation and wildlife due to the
required road construction; emission of fugitive dust from the mine
roads and the ore itself during truck haulage; noise and exhaust emis-
sions; and, most likely, a higher overall energy consumption than the
other transportation methods. Much of the energy consumed by truck
transportation is not used for productive purposes since the trucks
must return to the mine empty.
2.3.3.3 Technical Considerations
Truck haulage methods could be employed with either the dragline
or BWE mining methods, but truck usage is not considered practical for
2.3-5
-------
use in the dredge mining method. The ore in the dredge method would be
in a slurry state and would require dewatering prior to loading on
trucks, an additional expense in the handling/processing procedure.
The primary advantage of the hauling truck as a material handling
method is its extreme versatility. In open mines, 'this is particularly
important as dozens of production centers may be located throughout the
mine, producing a number of different materials or grades of materials.
An additional advantage of truck haulage is the ability of trucks to
climb grades of up to 10 percent.
Disadvantages of the truck haulage approach are: 1) the large
haulage trucks require the construction and maintenance of high quality
roads, which would be a difficult task in the summer months due to the
chacteristically high water table; 2) difficulty in dumping and unload-
ing operations due to the wet clayey (or sticky) condition of the phos-
phate ore; 3) the requirement for additional equipment to load the
trucks at the mine; 4) the costliness of maintaining a fleet of trucks
(capital cost, labor, m'aintenance, tires, fuel); 5) the necessity for
slurrifying the ore at the washer for processing so that there would be
no water consumption advantage over other transportation methods; and
6) the increased potential for fugitive dust emissions from the mine
roads, requiring additional oiling and wetting to control these emiss-
ions.
Truck haulage would also eliminate an important benefit derived
from slurry pipeline transportation. The process of pumping the ore
through a pipeline results in a "scrubbing" of the particles. This
scrubbing improves the beneficiation or processing of the phosphate ore
in several ways. There is an improved disaggregation of the clay
coating from the phosphate particles. This action results in an im-
proved metallurgical performance in the plant: reagent consumption is
reduced, and there is improved recovery at higher grades of phosphate.
2.3-6
-------
2.3.4 Summary
Conveyors would be the most environmentally acceptable method of
matrix transport. Less energy would be necessary for materials
handling. Also, there is less chance for pipeline rupture than with
slurry transport. Truck transport would be very energy intensive and
would reduce substantial fugitive dust from the roadways.
From a technical and cost standpoint, however, slurry pipelines
provide the least expensive (substantially so), most flexible, and most
proven method of matrix transport. Water usage is actually high only
during system startup, as 95 percent is recycled during normal
operations.
2.3-7
-------
THIS PAGE LEFT BLANK INTENTIONALLY
-------
2.4 ORE PROCESSING
Processing is the application of beneficiation techniques to the
matrix after it is mined and transported to the plant area. At the
plant, the phosphate is separated from waste materials such as quartz
sands and clays, thus upgrading the phosphate. Three systems for bene-
ficiation of the phosphate matrix-- wet processing (conventional)
beneficiation, dry separation, and acidulation--were considered for use
at the MCC mine site and are discussed in this section.
2.4.1 Wet Process Beneficiation (Proposed by MCC)
2.4.1.1 System Description
Wet processing beneficiation is presently employed throughout the
central Florida phosphate district. This system is most suitably
adapted to the pipeline system of matrix transportation. The major
components of the wet processing beneficiation system are the washer
section, feed preparation area, and flotation plant. Slurrified matrix
is transported to the washer where the pebble product is separated from
the waste clays and feed. The waste clays are routed to disposal areas,
and the feed is sized at the feed preparation area. The sized feed is
then processed at the flotation plant where the concentrate product is
separated from tailings sand. The tailings sand is pumped away from
the flotation plant and is generally used as fill material in reclama-
tion projects or as construction material for dams. The pebble and
concentrate products are usually stockpiled on ground adjacent to the
beneficiation area until they are required to meet sales commitments.
Washing Facilities
When the matrix is received at the washer, it consists of phos-
phate gravel, phosphate grains, clay balls, clay, and quartz sand. The
washer separates the matrix into three components, based on particle
size: 1) phosphate gravel, which is commonly known as pebble, 2) sand-
sized phosphatic and quartz grains commonly known as feed, and
3) finesized waste clays.
2.4-1
-------
The washer has three major units: 1) the matrix scalping section,
2) the washing/screening section, and 3) the desliming section (Figure
2.4-1). Using a series of rotary trommel screens, the matrix scalping
section separates oversized material and clay balls from the matrix.
The oversized material is disintegrated by a bank of hammer mills, and
then it is recycled through 'the scalping section. Before leaving the
scalping section, the matrix is normally reduced to particles ranging
in size from less than 1 millimeter (mm) to 19mm.
After the matrix is "sized" at the scalping section, it is routed
to the washing/screening section where the pebble (1mm to 19 mm size
material) is separated from the feed and waste clays (less than 1mm
size material). Flat vibrating screens and/or hydraulic sizers are
utilized in the primary separation process. The pebble is then routed
through log washers and a final series of vibrating screens which
facilitates further separation of feed and waste clays from the pebble.
Pebble beneficiation is complete at this point. The pebble product is
transported away from the washer by a conveyor belt system to'a stock-
pile or is loaded directly into railroad cars for shipment.
Feed and waste clays are routed to the desliming section where
they are separated by hydro-cyclones. Feed generally ranges in size
from 1mm to O.lmm, and waste clays comprise the less than O.lmm size
fraction. The waste clays are pumped and/or allowed to flow by gravity
away from the washer area. The feed is routed to the feed preparation
area or stockpiled until required for further processing.
Feed Preparation
Figure 2.4-2 identifies the steps followed in the feed preparation
area. The feed is received from the desliming area and/or the feed
storage area and is separated into fine and coarse feed at the feed
preparation facility. Coarse feed is that fraction which is greater
than 0.5mm, and fine feed is less than 0.5mm. Rake classifiers, screw
classifiers, and hydrosizers are generally used to accomplish feed
sizing.
2.4-2
-------
Flotation
Coarse feed and fine feed are sometimes subjected to different
concentrate recovery processes, both of which require initial treatment
of the feed with conditioners.. The coarse feed may be routed to either
spiral or flotation circuits where the coarse concentrate is separated
from the sand tailings. Flotation cells are utilized to separate the
fine concentrate from the sand tailings. Figure 2.4-2 depicts the
flotation process.
Waste Products
The waste products produced from the beneficiation of phosphate
are quartz sand tailings and clays. Generally, sand tailings are
pumped to disposal sites. Whenever possible, a gravity-flow system is
used to transport waste clays away from the beneficiation area. To
date, the general method of waste clay disposal has been impoundment in
above-ground storage ponds. This type of waste clay disposal has been
necessary since clays retain large amounts of water, increasing their
volume above that of the mined matrix.
New methods such as various types of sand/clay mixing and chemical
thickening of waste clay disposal are presently being evaluated (see
Section 2.8). These methods have been tested on a small scale and have
been successful, but full scale operations of this nature have not been
successful to date. When this new technology is proven, above-ground
waste clay containment areas will be minimized.
Wet Rock Storage
After beneficiation, wet rock is loaded from storage by gravity
onto conveyor belts or into hopper cars for transfer to a primary wet
rock storage facility. There, the hopper cars are unloaded through an
overhead trestle or car shaker, and the product falls into a conveyor
which transports it to storage piles. The product is dumped, by means
of a movable stacker or overhead tripper conveyor, into piles according
to size, BPL (bone phosphate lime) grade, I&A (iron and aluminum) con-
tent, and other factors. On the storage piles, tractors are used to
2.4-3
-------
keep the stackers, conveyors, or trestles clear and to move the
material back to the reclaiming facilities. A tunnel extending under
the length of the storage piles facilitates rehandling of the wet rock.
A conveyor in the tunnel passes the product to wet rock feed bins for
storage prior to drying.
2.4.1.2 Environmental Considerations
The primary environmental consideration associated with beneficia-
tion is the above-ground storage of waste clays (see Section 2.8).
Although a remote possibility, dam failures pose a potential for signi-
ficant damage to aquatic ecosystems and degradation of water quality in
the receiving water systems. Conventional beneficiation requires less
energy than the other alternatives and is less likely to be a source of
air pollutants.
2.4.1.3 Technical Considerations
Wet process beneficiation is an operational and, to date, success-
ful method of economical extraction of phosphate product from the mined
ore. Water use has improved over the years to a 90 percent recycle
level. The main losses occur with entrainment of water in waste clays
and evaporation from water bodies. Waste clays are generally stored in
above-grade settling areas. Sand tailings, another waste product is
disposed of in mine cuts or is used to build retaining dikes for the
waste clay storage areas.
2.4.2 Dry Separation
2.4.2.1 System Description
Dry beneficiation of phosphate ore is used principally in arid
regions where water is in short supply and the mined ore has low
moisture content. It is a method whereby organics and other waste
products are removed from the product by differences in specific
gravity (air classification). In Florida, the moisture content of the
ore ranges from 15 to 25 percent and, to employ dry separation
techniques, the ore must be dried.
2.4-4
-------
2.4.2.2 Environmental Considerations
The major environmental concern with beneficiation by the dry
separation process is its high rate of energy consumption compared to
the other two processes. This process also has a much greater poten-
tial for atmospheric emissions of particulate matter than the other
methods, but water consumption is lower and the above-grade waste clay
storage areas might be eliminated by this method.
2.4.2.3 Technical Considerations
Dry beneficiation has not yet been used in the United States. In
areas where it has been employed, this method has been used for removal
of carbonates. Dry beneficiation has not been directed at phosphate-
quartz separation, which is the process required in Florida.
2.4.3 Direct Acidulation
The direct acidulation process is in the experimental stage, hence
no phosphate mining company in the central Florida phosphate district
is employing it at present. However, in recent years, most phosphate
companies have considered this method as an alternative for matrix
processing.
Since this process is in the experimental stages and not in pre-
sent use in the central Florida phosphate district, a detailed descrip-
tion of the process is not included. A process description (Figure
2.4-3) has been prepared by White and others (1975).
2.4.3.1 System Description
In this process, direct digestion of the matrix with sulfuric acid
is used to recover the phosphate as phosphoric acid. Initially, the
matrix must be ground to a fine particle size to achieve the proper
dissolution. Before the matrix is ground, it must be dewatered by a
dryer to promote efficient grinding and to prevent dilution of the
phosphoric acid. During this process, a filtration system is utilized
to remove gypsum, clay, silica, and other acid-insoluble waste
materials.
2.4-5
-------
2.4.3.2 Environmental Considerations
The primary environmental concern for beneficiation by the direct
acidulation process is the potential for significant negative impacts
on local air and water quality. As with the dry process, the matrix
must be dried and ground. Also, the extensive utilization of sulfuric
acid in this process results in a potential for acid emission into'the
atmosphere and the receiving surface waters.
2.4.3.3 Technical Considerations
Since the direct acidulation process is in the experimental stage,
little is known about product recovery and operational difficulties on
a large-scal-e basis. Operational costs are expected to be high due to
the matrix drying requirements and sulfuric acid consumption ratio.
Sulfuric acid consumption rates are estimated to be much greater than
those of conventional beneficiation because of reactions of the acid
with calcium and magnesium which are contained in the matrix.
2.4.4 Summary
Wet process beneficiation is considered the environmentally pre-
ferred method of ore processing. Most water used in the process is
recycled for further use. Atmospheric emissions and energy use are
relatively low. Adverse impacts include the need for above-ground
storage of waste clays and the potential for dam failure.
Dry beneficiation would require substantial use of fuel oil (or
other energy sources) to dry the entire matrix (not just the concen-
trated phosphate rock as proposed) and, consequently, has the potential
for emitting substantial quantities of particulate S02 and NOX.
Direct acidulation requires drying and grinding of the ore as well as
reaction with sulfuric acid and has all the environmental disadvantages
of dry processing. This is also an unproven process, still in the
experimental stage. Both dry processing and direct acidulation would
eliminate the need for above-ground waste clay disposal.
2.4-6
-------
MATRIX FROM MINE (15 TO 20 PERCENT
30 TO 40 PERCENT SOLIDS
MUD BALL SCALPER
/ROTARY TROMMEL
VIBRATING SCREENS
XMUD BALL DISINTEGRATOR
HAMMER MILL
DISINTEGRATOR
>l.5 mm (0.06 in.)
LOG WASHER
PRIMARY PEBBLE SEPARATION
FLAT SCREENS
VIBRATING SCREENS
HYDROSIZER
ER .. S*
^^^^\ < 1.5 mm (0.06 in.)
FINAL PEBBLE SEPARATION
J^
VIBRATING SCREEN
HYDROSIZER WASHER DEBRIS
U
PRIMARY DESLIMING
HYDROSEPARATOR
CYCLONES
O.I mm (0.004 in.)
SLIME WASTE STORAGE OR FLOTATION FEED
O.I TO 1.5mm (0.004 TO 0.06 in.)
Source: Sweeney and Hasslacher, 1970.
Figure 2.4-1. Generalized Diagram of Washer Plant.
-------
FEED STORAGE
O.I TO 1.5mm (0.004 TO 0.06 in.)
1
PRIMARY CLASSIFICATION
RAKE CLASSIFIER
SCREW CLASSIFIER
V-BOX
HYDROSIZER
0.5 TO 1.5 mm (0.02 TO 0.06 in.)
FINES (O.I TO 0.5 mm)
_REAGENT CONDITIONER
PADDLE
/
ROUGHER FLOTATION
AIRFLOW
SUB-A-DENVER
3 TURBO
I
FROTH
f-| AIR CELL
J FAGERGREN
I—TAILS —»•
WASTE
TAILS
[ ACID
\AGITATOR
DEOILING
SCREW CLASSIFIER
,, SILICA FLOTATION
FROTH
WASTE
SECONDARY CLASSIFICATION
HYDROSIZER
J HYDROSCILLATOR
J. DSM-TYPE SCREENS
REAGENT CONDITIONER
» In
ROTARY
PADDLE
CO
j I
"~7
^r
I
COARSE CONCENTRATION
BELT SEPARATORS
SHAKING TABLES
FLOTATION MACHINE
UNDERWATER SCREENS
SPIRAL
COARSE CONCENTRATE
\_y
Source: Sweeney and Hasslacher, 1970.
Figure 2.4-2. Generalized Diagram of Flotation Plant.
-------
Filter feed
storage
Filter
Filter acid
„ Recycle acid
Acid premixer
tfl
Slurry recycle
INPUT
95 percent H2S04
Florida phosphate material
Water
CO
Belt
feeder
3 REACTORS
Finishing
reactor
OUTPUT
Filter cake (quartz plus
gypsum)
Filter acid
Source: White and others, 1975.
Figure 2.4-3. Sulfuric Acid Digestion of
Florida Phosphate Materials.
-------
THIS PAGE LEFT BLANK INTENTIONALLY
-------
2.5 PROCESS WATER SOURCES
Water is an important ingredient in the phosphate mining opera-
tions in Florida. Water is used as a medium in which to transport ore
from the mine site to the plant, to transport the feeds and products
through the plant, and to transport the waste products away, from the
plant to disposal sites.
The competition for water use in Florida for public supplies,
industrial use, and agricultural purposes has prompted conservation
measures on the part of all water users. Mining and processing of
phosphate requires vast quantities of water. Phosphate mines in
Florida have responded to the pressures for reduced water consumption
by reducing their withdrawals by over 45 percent since 1969. At pre-
sent, an industry-wide average of approximately 90 percent of the water
used in processing the phosphate ore is recycled.
There are three alternatives to consider as sources of water at
the MCC site: 1) surface water; 2) ground water; and 3) a combination
of both. These three alternatives will be discussed in the following
sections.
2.5.1 Source Description and Technical Considerations
2.5.1.1 Surface Water
There are two surface water sources available on the MCC site:
the numerous streams crossing the site, and large rainfall catchment
areas available after mining commences. MCC plans to divert surface
water from Brushy Creek into a proposed off-channel storage basin of
about a 9,500 acre-foot capacity (Figure 2.8-1). By the fourth year of
mine operations, the Brushy Creek reservoir (BCR) would be completed
and would cover about 200 acres with an average depth of about 50 feet.
A set of weirs will be placed in Brushy Creek so that water will be
diverted into BCR only when streamflow reaches 3.25 cfs.
Surface water on the MCC tract is of very low quality and would
not be suitable for use in the wet beneficiation flotation process.
2.5-1
-------
Organic chemicals and suspended solids in the surface water interfere
with the reagent precipitation processes. Surface water is usable,
however, in other make-up water applications.
The quantity of surface water is variable over the year, generally
following the rainfall patterns. In order to protect downstream users,
the use of surface water is regulated by the Southwest Florida Water
Management District (SWFWMD). SWFWMD will allow only a portion of the
stream flow to be removed and used. The portion of the stream flow
which can be used is related to the monthly flows and range in flow of
the stream.
Inadequate allowable quantities and quality of surface water at
the MCC site preclude this as the sole source of water. Total MCC
water consumption is estimated at 17,410,000 gpd average annually. The
surface water supplies are highly variable and are not adequate for
process water quantity, even with the addition of the BCR.
2.5.1.2 Ground Water
There are two major sources of ground water supplies at the MCC
site: the surficial water table aquifer and the Floridan aquifer.
The surficial aquifer and upper Floridan aquifer supply water for
domestic uses in the project area. Local Hardee County ordinances and
SWFWMD regulate the drawdown of the water levels in the aquifers at
property boundaries in order to protect adjacent landowners. These
regulatory requirements and the low transmissivity of the surficial
aquifer are such that MCC cannot develop adequate supplies from the
surficial aquifer to meet process water requirements.
The Floridan aquifer is the main source of large volumes of ground
water and, as mentioned above, is protected from excessive drawdown by
SWFWMD. The Floridan aquifer is capable of supplying the process water
requirements for the MCC project.
Advantages to the use of ground water are that the quality is suf-
ficient for flotation needs and the quantity is less sensitive to
2.5-2
-------
rainfall variation and, therefore, more dependable. Limitations must
be placed on ground water withdrawals, however, to avoid interference
with other water users in the area.
2.5.1.3 Combination of Surface and Ground Mater (Proposed by MCC)
Because of physical limitations on quality and quantity of surface
water and regulatory control of ground water withdrawals, MCC's process
water demands cannot be met from a surface water or a ground water
source alone. A combination of these sources has been proposed (Figure
2.5-1). A permit has been received from SWFWMD for this proposed
system.
The availability of combined surface and ground water sources
appears adequate to meet MCC process water requirements. Total process
water requirements are approximately 157,400,000 gpd. However, most of
this (136,770,000 gpd) is supplied through recirculation. Thus, the
actual need is 20,630,000 gpd.
Of this 20,630,000 gpd process water requirement, 3,220,000 gpd is
supplied by the water content in the ore. As a result, the net
requirement for process water is 17,410,000 gpd. Of this quantity,
10,500,000 gpd must be from ground water supplies to meet flotation
quality requirements. This leaves a requirement of 6,910,000 gpd which
could be met by either surface or ground water withdrawals. The sur-
face water sources on MCC property are of acceptable quality to meet
this demand. However, regulatory requirements, imposed by SWFWMD and
based on surface water studies limit withdrawal from the proposed
Brushy Creek reservoir to an annual average of 5,086,000 gpd. As a
result of this regulatory limitation, the remaining process water
requirement of 1,824,000 gpd must come from ground water sources.
To reduce the ground water and surface water withdrawals, MCC
proposes to employ rainfall catchment practices. Unfortunately rain-
fall is not a dependable source in quantity and in timing. Also,
because the entire active mine and waste disposal area would serve as
2.5-3
-------
the catchment basin, the water collected would not be of a quality that
could be used in the flotation process.
2.5.2 Environmental Considerations
The consumption of water is directly related to the quantity which
is entrained in the waste clays. Entrainment is by far the largest
source of water consumption, accounting for nearly 80 percent of the
process water requirement. Of the 17,410,000 gpd which would be re-
moved -from surface and ground water sources, only 14,084,640 gpd would
be actually consumed. The remaining 3,325,360 gpd would be returned
gradually to the surface and ground water systems through seepage from
various product storage and waste disposal areas.
To obtain all of this water from either the surface or ground
water source would result in an increase of overall adverse environmen-
tal impacts. Withdrawals of this quantity from surface water sources
would greatly affect downstream conditions. A similar withdrawal from
ground water supplies would increase water level drawdowns and increase
the potential for affecting nearby users while adversely affecting the
aquifer (see Section 3.2.2).
2.5.3 Summary
The proposal to withdraw approximately 5,086,000 gpd from Brushy
Creek Reservoir and 12,324,000 from the Floridan aquifer to meet pro-
cess water demands is preferred over the alternatives of total with-
drawal from either surface or ground water. Sufficient water would be
left in Brushy Creek throughout the year, including average monthly
minimums, to retain about 75 percent of the present annual flowrate,
which should not adversely affect present users. Ground water with-
drawals of the proposed magnitude (the full 17,410,000 gpd would be
withdrawn from ground water during the first three years of mining) are
not expected to lower potentiometric sufaces more than a few feet at
the property boundaries (Section 3.2.2.2).
The alternative of withdrawing the full water needs from surface
supplies would be unacceptable from both a process water quality
2.5-4
-------
standpoint and because nearly all of the annual average flow of Brushy
Creek would be required (insufficient flow would be available during
portions of the year). Withdrawal of the full requirement from ground
water would be feasible but would cause greater drawdown of the
Floridan aquifer.
2.5-5
-------
EXCESS. RAINFALL
0.56
MATRIX
MOISTURE
3.22
FROM
GROUND
WATER
20.63
(15.54)
HI.
MINE
28.26
0.14
SEAL WATER
89.)
MAKE-UP
PUMPAGE
16.98
32.18
BENEFICIATION
PLANT
0.29
SEAL WATER
152.15
(147.06)
TO
GROUND
WATER
3.32
SEEPAGE
1.24
EXCESS
RAINFALL
1.73
(5.09)
(23.17)
FROM
BRUSHY
CREEK
RESERVOIR
114.03
, 11.33
PRODUCT 8
NON-CLAY
WASTE
0.46 STORAGE
SETTLING
AREA
16.89 STORAGE
8.79
135.81
(130.72)
142.29
(137.20)
DISCHARGE
CLEAR
WATER
POND
TO
* SURFACE
WATER
2.31
NOTE: 1. Flow is in million gallons per day.
2. Values in parenthesis apply after
introduction of Brushy Creek Reservoir.
Figure 2.5-1. Schematic of Water Flow for the Proposed MCC Mine.
-------
2.6 LIQUID EFFLUENT DISPOSAL
It is MCC's objective to discharge a minimum amount of water while
maintaining the quality of the water discharged. Water would be
discharged primarily when the volume of water exceeds that which the
mining, waste disposal, and recirculation system catchment areas could
handle. Releases of clear water would be made in order to preserve the
free board requirements for waste disposal areas. The majority of the
excess water would consist of rain water falling directly into the
process water pools and runoff water from the mined and partially
reclaimed areas. The water recirculation system is designed to contain
rain water influx up to the 24-hour, 25-year storm event.
The four months with highest probability for effluent discharge
are June, July, August, and September. It is estimated that an average
of 2.31 mgd might be discharged on a daily basis during this four-month
period (Figure 2.5-1). Maximum discharge rate is estimated to be 20
mgd. The quality of the effluent discharge is described in Section
3.2.1. Discharges to surface water and ground water were the alterna-
tives considered for the MCC project. The effluent quality and
quantity would be unaffected by the choice of discharge alternatives.
2.6.1 Method Description and Technical Considerations
2.6.1.1 Surface Water Discharge (Proposed by MCC)
There are two alternative discharge methods which have been .
considered for MCC emergency effluent discharge to surface waters;
these are listed below and illustrated on Figure 2.6-1:
Alternative 1: Discharge 001 - Oak Creek discharge near the
Vandolah Plant site location. Discharge 001 is not expected to
be relocated during the life of the mine (Proposed by MCC).
Alternative 2: Discharge 002 - Initially, release from MC-1
recirculation system into the northern portion of Hickory
Creek;
2.6-1
-------
Discharge 003 - Later in mine life, release into Hickory
Creek near the southern property boundary. As mining
progresses in the Hickory Creek basin, it would be
necessary to terminate Discharge 002 in year 8 and
initiate Discharge 003.
2.6.1.2 Ground Water Discharge
The relatively small (and periodic) volume of discharge antici-
pated, the quality of water to be discharged (lack of hazardous con-
stituents), and the high cost of a deep well injection system preclude
this as a viable alternative. As effects expected to be incurred from
surface discharge are not significantly adverse, no detailed analysis
was performed for the ground water disposal alternative.
2.6.2 Environmental Considerations
Since ground water discharge is not considered to be a viable
alternative, the environmental impacts of this alternative will not be
discussed in thi-s section. Under a surface water discharge plan, Dis-
charge 001 would significantly affect the Oak Creek drainage course;
Discharges 002 and 003 would impact Hickory Creek. Both the 001 and
002 discharge points would allow better filtration and ecosystem im-
provement of the water quality before the water leaves the property
than would Discharge 003.
The proposed plan provides for discharges to be routed to Oak
Creek (Discharge 001). Oak Creek was selected because it is near the
proposed plant site and because the other discharge points would offer
no particular environmental advantages over the Discharge 001 location.
It is expected that water released to Oak Creek through this discharge
would have higher oxygen content than that now existing in the stream.
Average dissolved oxygen (DO) levels of 2.9 mg/1 have been reported for
Oak Creek (Table 3.2-3); the limited DO data available for mine ef-
fluents show DO concentrations of 10.0 and 7.5 mg/1 in water flowing
through phosphate-mined areas.
2.6-2
-------
2.6.3 Summary
Ground water discharge offers no significant environmental
advantages and would be substantially more costly than surface
discharge; therefore only surface discharge was considered in detail.
The proposed plan of discharging from the clear water pond into Oak
Creek (Discharge 001) would increase annual average flow by about 32
percent but would not have significant adverse effects on existing
water quality (Section 3.2.1). Although total suspended solids (TSS)
and oil and grease content may exceed ambient stream standards, dis-
solved oxygen content should be increased. The alternative of dis-
charging into Hickory Creek would not provide as good filtration during
most of the project life (particularly during years 8 through 32 from
Discharge 003) before the water leaves the MCC property.
2.6-3
-------
««.»*'
LEGEND:
• -ALTERNATIVE DISCHARGE LOCATIONS
isinv.0 9 c_i Alternate
Water ni«;rharnp Inr.flt.inns.
-------
THIS PAGE LEFT BLANK INTENTIONALLY
-------
2.7 ROCK DRYING
The Central Florida Phosphate Industry Areawide EIS (USEPA, 1978)
recommended that rock dryers be eliminated at phosphate mines in
Florida. Case by case consideration of exceptions to this recommenda-
tion could be considered on the basis of energy savings as long as air
quality could be adequately protected in Florida.
MCC has proposed to install a rock dryer at their Hardee County
mine. A decision about drying the phosphate rock at the Hardee County
mine site is extremely important to Mississippi Chemical Corporation's
operations at their Pascagoula fertilizer plant and their plans to sell
excess rock to other customers. Since MCC's Pascagoula plant is de-
signed to process dry rock, omission of a rock dryer at Ona would
require facility changes at the Pascagoula plant. There are two basic
options at the mine:
1) Provide a rock dryer; and
2) Ship the rock wet (no dryer).
Of the 3 million tons mined per year at Ona, 1 million tons are to
be shipped to MCC's Pascagoula plant. The remaining 2 million tons of
rock per year will be sold to other customers whose locations and
facilities are unknown. There are three options for MCC's Pascagoula
operations:
1) Receive and process dry rock. This would follow issuance of a
permit to construct a rock dryer at Ona. Operations at
Pascagoula would be unchanged from present.
2) Receive wet rock, and dry it at Pascagoula. This would
require construction and operation of a dryer at Pascagoula.
3) Receive and process wet rock. This would require process
changes at Pascagoula.
Options available to MCC's other customers may be similar to those
open to MCC at Pascagoula, though actual plant modifications may be
somewhat different.
2.7-1
-------
Selection of alternative rock drying systems for analysis in the
DEIS was made with the intent of covering the entire range of possibil-
ities. The following alternatives were selected.
1) Dry all rock at Ona (proposed by MCC).
2) Ship all rock wet from Ona; dry it at the fertilizer plants.
3) Ship all rock wet from Ona; process it wet at the fertilizer
plants.
Quantitative analyses were made of a wide range of environmental
impacts relating to the Ona operations and MCC's Pascagoula plant.
Only qualitative assessments can be provided for impacts expected at
other customer facilities. Some of the rock could be shipped without
drying to customers who can process wet rock; this situation would be a
combination of the selected alternatives, though it is not possible to
determine the fraction of rock which might be shipped wet during the
project lifetime. In accordance with stipulations in the Development
Order (Appendix C), MCC will actively seek wet rock customers. A
detailed analysis of the impacts of each alternative is provided in
TSD-I.
2.7.1 Rock Dryer at Ona (Proposed by MCC)
2.7.1.1 Description of System
MCC proposes to install a fluidized bed dryer fired by No. 6 fuel
oil at the beneficiation plant in Hardee County so that dry phosphate
rock can be shipped to Pascagoula and to customers that need dry rock.
The major rock handling activities for this alternative are shown on
Figure 2.7-1. The rock is mined, transported by pipeline in a slurry
to the beneficiation plant, conveyed to various storage areas for
drying and transfer to rail cars, transferred again to barges at Tampa,
and then shipped to Pascagoula or to other customers for grinding and
chemical processing.
The rock handling facilities at the beneficiation plant would be
suitable for shipping wet rock to customers who can accept it.
2.7-2
-------
However, for simplicity of presentation and to express worst-case
conditions at Ona, the proposed action is analyzed on the basis of
drying all of the rock produced from the mine.
2.7.1.2 Environmental Considerations
Drying the phosphate rock at the mine site would substantially
increase emissions of SC>2 and particulates (PM) at Ona; state and
federal ambient air quality standards and prevention of significant
deterioration (PSD) regulations could be met, however (TSD-III and
Section 3.4). Associated with these emissions would be very slight
increased levels of airborne radionuclides (TSD-V and Section 3.6).
Energy use would also substantially increase (by approximately 220,000
barrels of oil per year) at Ona (TSD-I). Along the rail lines to Tampa
and at the ports, there would be a greater release of fugitive dust,
though effects should be localized. At Pascagoula, there would be no
change in present operations; fugitive dust would be the only notice-
able environmental problem. Presumably, this would also be the case at
other points of rock delivery.
2.7.1.3 Technical and Economic Considerations
The proposal to dry phosphate rock at the mine for shipment to
chemical processing facilities uses technology which is proven and
accepted in the industry. MCC's Pascagoula fertilizer plant as well as
most other plants along the central Gulf coast where rock from MCC's
mine is likely to be shipped, currently process dry phosphate rock.
Therefore, by following the proposed action, few new facilities would
have to be constructed; process reliability would be a known factor;
and maximum flexibility would be available to MCC to meet both present
and future market demand.
For the proposed system, the only significant capital investment
would be $12 million ($4/ton annual capacity) for the rock dryer at the
mine. The most significant operating cost would be $6.31/ton for port
handling and barge transport. Investments required at other points of
delivery cannot be determined.
2.7-3
-------
2.7.2 Rock Dryer at Chemical Plant
2.7.2.1 Description of System
This alternative assumes that rock drying is eliminated at the
Hardee County mine site. Wet rock would be loaded onto rail cars,
transferred to barges, and shipped to Pascagoula (and to other custo-
mers) where it would be dried and processed in a manner similar to that
planned in the proposed action. The major phosphate rock handling
activities for this alternative are shown on Figure 2.7-2.
2.7.2.2 Environmental Considerations
Drying the phosphate rock at the chemical plants would produce
virtually the same amount of S02 and PM emissions as the proposed
action, but the sources would be scattered and smaller in size. At
Pascagoula, another PSD permit would be required; ambient air quality
restrictions there are substantially greater than at Ona. Energy use
would be greater for this alternative than for the proposed action
because the moisture in the rock would have to be transported by rail
and barge. The potential for fugitive emissions from rail and ship
handling would be decreased.
2.7.2.3 Technical and Economic Considerations
This alternative substitutes rock drying at the chemical plant for
drying at the Hardee County mine site. Facilities would be required to
store and handle wet rock at the beneficiation plant and at the point
of rock delivery. A rock dryer and new wet rock handling and storage
facilities would have to be built at Pascagoula. There are no techni-
cal difficulties associated with this alternative; process reliability
is a known factor, and sufficient storage would be available to mini-
mize the chance of plant shutdown resulting from dryer outage.
With this alternative, MCC would not have the flexibility of sel-
ling to customers who must use dry rock and do not have their own
drying facilities. Currently, although approximately 43 percent of the
phosphate rock produced in the southeastern United States enters the
2.7-4
-------
phosphoric acid process as wet rock, 93 percent of this rock is captive
(i.e., mined by the same company which processes it). Also, only 8
percent of the wet rock grinding capacity is outside the producing
area, and all of this is captive. Wet rock is not currently shipped in
international trade. These data indicate that most noncaptive phos-
phate rock demand is for dry rock, rather than wet. It is likely that
MCC would have difficulty finding customers for 2 million tons of wet
rock per year.
Significant capital investments would be required for wet rock
unloading, storage, and dryer facilities at Pascagoula ($13.4 million,
or $13.4/ton). Operating costs would be higher than for the proposed
alternative, primarily because of the need to transport moisture in the
rock. The most significant operating cost would be $7.12/ton for port
handling and barge transport. No information can be provided on costs
for customer facilities, though it may be reasonable to assume these
will be similar to MCC's.
Because wet rock offloading of barges is a slower process than for
dry rock, dock facility expansion would be required to implement this
alternative at MCC's Pascagoula plant. A Section 10 construction per-
mit would be required from the Corps of Engineers.
2.7.3 No Rock Dryer
2.7.3.1 System Description
This alternative assumes that rock drying is eliminated both at
the Hardee County mine site and at Pascagoula. Wet rock would be
processed into phosphoric acid at the Pascagoula plant (and at other
customer plants). Since there is currently no wet rock process
available for producing triple superphosphate, MCC would have to
purchase sufficient dry rock from other sources for this purpose. A
schematic of the major phosphate rock handling activities for this
alternative is shown on Figure 2.7-3.
2.7-5
-------
2.7.3.2 Environmental Considerations
Air quality effects of this alternative are less certain than for
the others. Though emissions at Ona would be reduced substantially
from the proposed action, and also to an extent along the transporta-
tion routes, emissions at the chemical plants would be dependent on
existing facilities. For MCC's Pascagoula plant, a water balance and
liquid effluent limitation would require that a large new steam genera-
tor be built; consequent emissions and air quality impacts would be
substantial, requiring a PSD permit and, perhaps, emission offsets. At
other plants specifically designed to process wet rock, emissions might
be very low. Energy use would also be plant-specific. At Pascagoula,
the new boiler would require substantial fuel oil, more per ton of rock
than a dryer.
2.7.3.3 Technical and Economic Considerations
In addition to building facilities for wet rock handling at the
beneficiation and chemical plants, significant changes would be re-
quired in the Pascagoula phosphoric acid plant and downstream process-
ing facilities; it is not known whether similar changes would be re-
quired for other customers. The additional water introduced into the
process stream with the wet rock and for wet rock grinding could nor-
mally be handled without technical difficulties. However, at Pasca-
goula, a water balance problem would be created with consequent effects
on energy use, cost, and/or water quality.
This alternative would require that MCC market phosphate rock to
customers who do not need dry rock. As described in Section 2.7.2,
most wet rock processing is done at captive plants located in Florida.
For at least the immediate future, this alternative would have a sig-
nificant, adverse effect on MCC's market potential and flexibility to
sell phosphate rock.
As an additional technical consideration, a change to wet rock
grinding eliminates any possibility for MCC to adopt the newly-
developed hemihydrate phosphoric acid production processes at the
2.7-6
-------
Pascagoula plant. This new process technology has the advantage of
increasing overall P205 recovery from 93 percent to 98 percent and
significantly reduces energy use per ton of Pz®5 produced.
Though there are no unusual reliability or safety problems asso-
ciated with processing wet rock, the reduced ground rock storage capa-
cities which can be provided at Pascagoula increase the chance for
plant shutdown should the wet rock grinder malfunction. Also, a
Section 10 permit would be required for dock construction and dredging
in Bayou Casotte (as with the alternative for rock drying at the
chemical plant).
Capital investments required to implement this alternative are
substantial. These include $10.7 million for phosphoric acid facility
modifications, $9 million for wet rock unloading and storage facili-
ties, and $5.1 million for wet rock grinding; all of these facilities
would be located in Pascagoula. Operating costs would also be sub-
stantial, totaling $17.98/ton of rock; the most significant of these
are $6.04/ton for phosphoric acid processing and $7.12/ton for port
handling and barge transport. Again, cost estimates cannot be made for
other customers.
2.7.4 Summary
A summary of the environmental, economic, and other issues of con-
cern in selecting among the three basic rock drying alternatives is
provided in Table 2.7-1. Under the conditions and assumptions expected
to prevail for at least the early years of the mine life (see TSD-I),
the proposal to dry rock at the Hardee County mine is expected to be
preferred with regard to nearly all of these issues. These include
energy use: a savings of 13,000 to 109,000 barrels of fuel oil (equi-
valent) annually; capital investment: a savings of $10.5 million to
$21.9 million; and operating cost: a savings of $1.9 million to $5.1
million annually. With regard to air quality, the proposed action
would have more adverse effects in Florida, but less in Pascagoula and
other places where the rock would be dried. If wet rock were to be
2.7-7
-------
transported, the requirement for dredging and dock expansion at
Pascagoula would adversely affect water, quality and impose some un-
certainty regarding the necessary Section 10 permit. Finally, and very
significantly for the economic viability of the project, MCC would have
great difficulty finding buyers for 2 million tons of wet rock per
year.
2.7-8
-------
TABLE 2.7-1
COMPARISON OF MCC ROCK DRYING ALTERNATIVESa
Impact Issues^
Energy Use
(bbl/yr)
Capital Investment0
(106 dollars)
Annual Operating Costc
(106 dollars/yr)
Air Quality
Land Use (acres)
Water Quality
Other Considerations
Feasibility/Reliability
Proposed Action -
Rock Dryer at Mine
176,000
4.00
12.85
Significant S02 and PM
emissions at Ona; meets
all standards.
10
No adverse effect.
No adverse effects.
No concerns.
Alternative No. 1 -
Dry Rock on Delivery
189,000
14.53
14.76
Significant S02 emis-
sions at Pascagoula; may
require special miti-
gation for PSD permit
approval.
12
Temporary effects from
dredging in Bayou Casotte.
Some uncertainty intro-
duced by need for dredge
and fill permit.
No concerns.
Page 1 of 2
Alternative No. 2 -
Process Wet Rockd
285,000
25.93
17.98
Significant S02 emissions
at Pascagoula; likely ex-
ceeds PSD or NAAQS standards
without special mitigation.
12
Temporary effects from
dredging in Bayou Casotte.
Some uncertainty intro-
duced by need for dredge
and fill permit.
Slight increase in poten^
tial for plant shutdown
due to wet rock grinder
malfunction.
-------
TABLE 2.7-1 (Continued) • Page 2 of 2
Proposed Action - Alternative No. 1 - Alternative No. 2 -
Impact Issues" Rock Dryer at Mine Dry Rock on Delivery Process Wet Rockd
Market Potential Maximum flexibility to Very limited market for wet Very limited market for wet
satisfy customer de- rock at present. No flexi- rock at present. No flexi-
mands. bility to meet changing bility to meet changing
customer demands. customer demands.
Comparisons are made for processing of rock at the Pascagoula plant.
bAll impacts are expressed per ton of "bone dry" rock.
cCosts are given only for facilities needed to provide 1,000,000 tons "bone dry" rock/year to MCC's
Pascagoula plant; no costs are reported for rock shipped to other customers.
Assumes existing NPDES permit is not revised to allow greater effluent discharge to Bayou Casotte.
For the effects of allowing increased liquid waste discharge, see Section 5.3.
-------
HARDEE COUNTY MINE
SLURRY
MINING PIPELINE
BENEFICIATION
CONVEYOR
WET ROCK
STORAGE
,
DRYER FEED BINS 1
CONVEYOR ROCK DRYERS TRANSFER '
1 " DRY ROCK STORAGE I
DRY ROCK LOADOUT 1
DAI 1
J
TRANSFER r
BARGE
PPASCAGOULA PLANT
IDRY ROCK
UNLOADING CONVEYOR
* IKANSFER,
1 8 STORAGE
1
DRY ROCK
GRINDING
a STORAGE
'
CUSTOMER (S)
RECEIPT,
STORAGE,
a PROCESSING
1
CONVEYOR
CONVEYOR
1
1
I
1
1
1
_ J
» «
PHOSPHORIC
ACID
PRODUCTION
TRIPLE
SUPERPHOSPHATE
PRODUCTION
mmmim mm^^ ^^^"
1
1
1
i
I
"1
1
1
1
_l
Figure 2.7-1. Proposed Action - Rock Dryer at Mine.
-------
HARDEE COUNTY MINE
~l
1
1
1
1
1
L
CONVEYOR
|~PA<
I
1
MINING
SLURRY
PIPELINE
BENEFICIATION
WET ROCK
LOADING
-
TRANSFER 1
1
_ J
RAIL
5CAGOULA PLANT
WET ROCK
UNLOADING
TRANSFER
a STORAGE
CONVEYOR
ROCK DRYER
8 DRY ROCK
TRANSFER
8 STORAGE
CONVEYOR
TRANSFER
CONVEYOR
WET ROCK
STORAGE
BARGE
-
DRY ROCK
GRINDING
a STORAGE
•••••i
1
1
. J
1
CONVEYOR PHOSPHORIC i
AUIU 1
PRODUCTION 1
CONVEYOR TRIPLE 1
. --h. ci inrrjnunc nu ATF 1
^ OUr l_l\r tlUOr MAI C. 1
PRODUCTION •
I
I CUSTOMER (S)
I RECEIPT,
I STORAGE, a
| PROCESSING
Figure 2.7-2; Alternate No. 1 - Rock Dryer at Chemical Plant,
-------
HARDEE COUNTY MINE
1
1
1
1
1
1 ^
1 *
1 — _
rP;
1
I
i i
BARGE '
a RAIL i
M 1 Kl 1 M f*
Ml N 1 No
WET ROCK
LOADING
^SCAGOULA
WET ROCK
UNLOADING,
TRANSFER
a STORAGE
DRY ROCK
UNLOADING,
TRANSFER
a STORAGE
SLURRY
PIPELINE
r—
1
1
to
1
J
"ANT
CONVEYOR
f*f\K\\IC VA D
CONVtTUn
nC"MCTlPI ATIOM
Dt-Ntlr ll> 1 M I IUIM
-
RAI L
WET ROCK
GRINDING
DRY ROCK
GRINDING
8 STORAGE
CONVEYOR ^
_•••• •*•••• ^m
r
SLURRY ^
CONVcYOR
WET ROCK
STORAGE
—
BARGE
. — — —
PHOSPHORIC
ACID PRODUCTION
(MODIFIED)
TRIPLE
SUPERPHOSPHATE
PRODUCTION
1
1
1
1
. J
— 1
1
_, I
1
1
1
1
1
1
L_
MINING
PROCESSING,
AND HANDLING
OF DRY ROCK
(BY OTHERS)
CUSTOMER (S) i
RECEIPT, I
STORAGE a |*
PROCESSING I
J
I
Figure 2.7-3. Alternate No. 2 - No Rock Dryer.
-------
THIS PAGE LEFT BLANK INTENTIONALLY
-------
2.8 WASTE DISPOSAL
Waste disposal methods are a major consideration in the planning
of a phosphate mining operation. Disposal of the large quantities of
waste clays and sand tailings that are produced in a phosphate complex
requires extensive planning to minimize adverse impacts on the environ-
ment, mining, and on operations and to maximize opportunities for land
reclamation to optimum alternative uses. Other environmental factors
such as aesthetics and the various regulatory requirements must also be
considered in preparing a waste disposal plan.
The conventional waste disposal method was selected as the pro-
posed method in the ADA/DRI for this project (MCC, 1977). However,
concerns were raised by various state and federal agencies with regard
to the extensive above-ground clay disposal areas resulting from the
conventional approach. In addition, the central Florida Phosphate
Industry Areawide EIS (USEPA, 1978) recommends the minimization of
above-ground storage areas. This led to a re-evaluation of the
originally-proposed waste disposal method for the MCC project.
Sand/clay mixing, an environmentally preferable waste disposal method
(USEPA, 1978), was the second alternative considered. However,
detailed engineering analyses indicated that the matrix ore on the MCC
tract does not contain sufficient sand to permit the successful use of
this method alone. Therefore, conventional waste disposal with
sand/clay capping was adopted as the third (and proposed by MCC)
alternative. Each of these methods is discussed in the following
sections.
2.8.1 Conventional Method
Traditionally, the central Florida phosphate industry has utilized
conventional waste disposal practices, separating sand and clay wastes
at the beneficiation plant prior to disposal.
2.8.1.1 Method Description
Under the conventional waste diposal method, sand and clay wastes
are routed to separate areas for disposal. The disposal of sand
2.8-1
-------
tailings has not generally been a problem in the phosphate industry.
Usually, tails have been deposited in mine cuts as back-fill or have
been utilized in the construction of holding dikes. However, disposal
of waste clays has been a more complex concern because of the large
amount of process water contained in the clays. The clay slurry is
discharged from the beneficiation plant at 4 to 6 percent solids and is
deposited in holding areas. Slowly, over a number of years, the clays
consolidate to 20 percent solids. The increase in waste volume
resulting from the 80 percent retained moisture requires that the clays
be stored in above-ground impoundments.
Under the conventional disposal plan, clay storage areas would
cover about 7,500 acres of the MCC site and would be surrounded by
60-foot-high dikes. A total of 11 impoundments would be built on the
site. Individual clay disposal areas would range from 351 to 1,167
acres in size and from 23,342 to 89,171 acre-feet in capacity. The
total clay storage capacity would be sufficient to accommodate the
529,000 acre-feet of clay produced over the project life, assuming
stage-settling in certain storage areas (MCC, 1977). Stage settling
would allow time for the clay wastes contained in some areas to settle
before addition of new clays, providing additional capacity as a result
of the compaction of the original waste clay.
Sand tailings would be used for sand fill, land-and-lakes reclama-
tion, and dike construction around clay settling areas. Approximately
146,000 acre-feet (assuming a nominal density of 100 pounds per cubic
foot) of sand tailings would be accommodated by the conventional plan.
About half of this volume would be used for dam construction, thus
minimizing the need to discharge tailings above-ground in unmineable
areas.
Sand would normally be distributed to mined-out areas or to por-
tions of a mining block which would not be totally filled with tails
but would eventually be reclaimed as land-and-lakes or used for dike
construction activities. However, when no tails disposal areas are
2.8-2
-------
available, tails would be diverted to locations within certain clay
settling areas.
2.8.1.2 Environmental Considerations
Conventional waste disposal methods have a number of environmental
advantages and disadvantages. Among the advantages of this method of
waste disposal are the following: (1) a relatively low amount of
energy is needed to operate the system; (2) the method provides for
catchment and storage of rain water, reducing the need for ground water
supplies; (3) the clays are not contaminated with sand so that future
phosphate recovery is possible; and 4) reclamation of land not included
in settling areas can be accomplished in a predictable manner, based on
past- reclamation experience obtained by the phosphate industry.
Among the disadvantages inherent in this method of waste disposal
are: (1) the height required for the dikes to contain the clays,
(2) the large amount of area needed to store the clays, 3) the limited
potential usage of the land after reclamation; 4) the potential for
surface water contamination and loss of biological resources if dike
failure occurs; 5} the long period of time required for waste clays to
compact and release water; 6) the poor strength and drainage charac-
teristics of soils in settling areas; and 7) for the MCC site, the
relatively small volume of overburden would not allow complete coverage
of the waste clays, thereby resulting in elevated levels of radio-
activity in surface soils.
2.8.1.3 Technical Considerations
The conventional waste disposal method is an operationally proven
method of clay and tails disposal. This system provides areas for
storage of make-up water and accumulation of rainfall. The large
impoundment areas allow maximum accumulation of rain and a minimum
discharge of water; this reduces the consumption of ground water.
Another positive consideration for this method of waste is that the
P20s still contained in the clays remains available for extraction
should recovery be feasible at a future time.
2.8-3
-------
Low soil strength has been associated with waste clay settling
areas. Compaction and consolidation of the clays continues for an
extended period of time. In order to improve the soil strength, waste
clay areas can be capped with sand tailings or overburden to provide
additional soil stability at the surface.
In order to increase consolidation of the clays and reduce the
total volume of above-grade clay disposal areas, stage settling can be
incorporated into this method. Settling of this type requires the
rotation of clay deposition among several ponds to achieve a higher
percentage of clay solids. Water is periodically drawn from the sur-
face of the disposal areas, promoting the compaction process. This
cycle of filling and drying can achieve an overall higher average per-
cent solids.
2.8.2 Sand/Clay Mixing Method
The Central Florida Phosphate Areawide Impact Assessment Program
(USEPA, 1978) recommends sand/clay mixing for waste disposal whenever
possible. However, this method has not been employed at any full-scale
mining operations to date. Results of tests on pilot projects have
been inconsistent and often contradictory in nature.
2.8.2.1 Method Description
Under this disposal method, sand and clay are mixed at a minimum
ratio of 2 to 1 before routing to common disposal areas. This ratio is
the minimum that is considered technically feasible for good mixing of
sand and clay.
Several methods have been developed to combine the sand and clay
wastes. These include: the sand spray process, the use of chemical
flocculants, and the dredge-mix method. The sand spray process
involves placement of clays into mined-out areas where the clays are
allowed to settle from 3 percent to 12 to 15 percent solids. A
floating/suspended pipeline equipped with spray nozzles is then used to
deposit a layer of sand tailings over the clay. After a period of time
is allowed for further clay consolidation, another layer of clay is
2.8-4
-------
placed over the settled mix. The entire process is repeated until a
satisfactory fill level is achieved.
In the flocculation method, chemical flocculants are added to the
waste clays. These chemicals increase the consolidation rate of the
clays drastically. Waste clays can attain a 12 to 14 percent solids
mixture in a short period of time, enabling a release of some water
immediately and recirculation into the plant water system.
Clays at the plant are run through a thickener, where flocculants
are added. After being removed from the thickener, they are pumped to
a disposal site where sand tailings are added to the clays in a 2 to 1
ratio. Sand tailings are also pumped to the site, then dewatered
before mixing. The mixture is pumped into the above-grade area to
allow for consolidation. Several fillings are required to ensure an
adequate height.
The dredge-mix method involves construction of settling ponds for
clay consolidation by gravity. Clays enter the ponds at 4 to 6 percent
solids and, in 6 months time, reach a 12 to 14 percent solids content.
A minimum of two containment areas are necessary for the plan to work.
One area receives clays while the second is used for settling. A
dredge is used to pump the thickened clays from one area to the other.
2.8.2.2 Environmental Considerations
Sand/clay mixing would entail both environmental advantages and
disadvantages if used on the MCC site. Advantages of this waste
disposal method include the following: (1) improvement of soil fer-
tility and strength; (2) increased land use potential, (3) lowered dam
heights and reduced amount of above-grade settling areas (compared to
conventional method); (5) greater flexibility in placement of wastes;
and (6) reduced levels of radioactivity in surface soils compared to
the conventional method.
Disadvantages which might be associated with the sand/clay mix
disposal method are the following: (1) at least two thickening ponds
are needed; (2) it has reduced storage and catchment of rainfall and
2.8-5
-------
make-up water; (3) separation of the sand and clay mixture can occur,
and (4) flocculants, if used, can be introduced into the local aquatic
environment and aquifers.
2.8.2.3 Technical Considerations
Several technical considerations make the sand/clay disposal
method an unattractive or infeasible alternative for use on the MCC
site.
The uncertainty of the sand/clay mix disposal methods' workability
on a project-scale level is one of the major factors which must be
considered. Although some research has been done with this waste
disposal method,-most of it has been accomplished in small-scale pilot
programs. Much of the data from these programs is proprietary and not
available to the general public; some of the data which are available
show inconsistent and contradictory results. Recently, one Florida
phosphate company requested permission from the state to change its
sand/clay reclamation plan to one with separate waste sand and clay
storage areas. The change was requested because the sand/clay mix
technique did not work as well in the full-scale operation as it had
under test conditions.
Another consideration in determining the applicability of this
method to waste disposal methods on the MCC site is the nature of the
ore body that will be mined there. A sand to clay ratio of 2 to 1 is
considered to be the minimum which allows good sand/clay"mixing. The
ore body on the MCC property has a relatively high clay content (1.92
sand to 1.0 clay).
If the positive test results obtained from pilot scale testing of
the sand/clay mix waste disposal technique could be matched in full-
scale operations on the MCC site, a number of benefits would be
realized by using this method. For example, consolidation of the clays
would be increased from about 25 percent under conventional settling
methods to 35 percent over a period of 20 years. This decrease in
effective consolidation time makes additional waste disposal volume
2.8-6
-------
available, lowering the acreage required for storage areas and/or the
required dike heights. Faster waste consolidation would also allow
more rapid release of water entrained in the waste clays; this water
would be made available to the beneficiation process, thus lowering the
requirement for ground water.
2.8.3 Conventional Disposal Plus Sand/Clay Capping (Proposed by MCC)
This waste disposal method incorporates aspects of both the con-
ventional and the sand/clay mix methods. Engineering studies have
determined that, for the MCC site, this method would provide a greater
degree of consolidation than any of the other methods considered. Clay
and sand wastes would be deposited in separate holding areas. After an
appropriate settling period, some of the c'lay holding ponds would be
capped with a sand/clay mix. The other clay ponds would be partially
covered with a tailings/overburden cap. Sand fill areas would be
covered with an overburden cap (Table 2.8-1). As proposed, this plan
is a substantial improvement over the conventional waste disposal
method. In addition, the Development Order (Appendix C) stipulates
that MCC would adopt advances in waste clay disposal technology which
are feasible on a plant scale and which would reduce above-grade
storage requirements. If new disposal technology which would further
reduce above-ground waste disposal areas became available, its use on
the MCC project would be considered.
2.8.3.1 Method Description
According to the currently proposed waste disposal plan, each of
the areas delineated on Figure 2.8-1 would be used for waste storage at
some time during the life of the project.
Areas identified on Figure 2.8-1 by the designations "MC," "DA,"
and "A" would receive only clay wastes. The former two groups of
disposal areas would be enclosed by 60-foot and 35-foot dikes, respec-
tively. Dike design for these disposal areas would be in accordance
with the Florida Administrative Codes, Chapter 17-9; the proposed con-
struction is shown on Figure 2.8-2. Areas MC-2 and MC-4 would be
2.8-7
-------
brought to an at-grade level by transporting clay to other clay storage
areas south of SR 64 during the 10-year post-mining reclamation period.
Waste clays would generally be held below-grade in areas designated as
"A" so that dikes would not generally be required in these areas. In
those "A" areas where fill would occasionally surpass the storage
capacity, it would be necessary to construct low dikes to contain the
wastes.
After construction, "MC" and "DA" areas would be stage-filled,
allowing a maximum volume of waste to be stored in each disposal area.
"MC" areas would receive two fills. The second fill would be 19.1
percent of the volume of the first and would follow the first by a
period of five years to allow dewatering. The "DA" areas would receive
three fills, the second one occurring after a minimum delay of three
years, and the third following at least five years after the second.
Sand/clay caps would be placed over all "MC" areas as well as Area DA-1
five years after the final fill date for each. Caps would be approxi-
mately 4 feet thick and would comprise a sand/clay ratio of approxi-
mately 8:1. Consolidated clay for capping would be derived from some
of the "MC" areas in much the same manner described for the dredge-mix
method under the sand/clay mixing disposal alternative in Section
2.8.2.1. Area MC-1 would be the first to be capped; capping would
occur in year 14. Clay for capping would be dredged from Area MC-2.
Sand tailings would be used for capping, backfill, and also for
dike construction. Tailings disposal areas would be covered with a
partial overburden cap. Figure 2.8-1 shows all areas to receive tails
along with the years they would be placed.
2.8.3.2 Environmental Considerations
Because this method is a combination of the conventional and the
sand/clay mix disposal methods, many of the environmental considera-
tions are the same as those discussed in Sections 2.8.1.2 and 2.8.2.2.
Additional advantages of the proposed method include the following:
1) capped clay settling areas would have a potential for more varied
2.8-8
-------
land use (such as improved fertility for agricultural use), 2) this
method provides for the maximum extent of clay consolidation, given the
conditions at the proposed MCC site, and 3) above-grade tails storage
would not be required. Although the proposed method is an extension of
present practices, it is'not radically different and is not expected to
pose significant technical problems with full-scale application.
2.8.3.3 Technical Considerations
Since this method is a combination of the conventional and the
sand/clay mix disposal methods, the technical and economic considera-
tions are the same as those discussed in Sections 2.8.1.3 and 2.8.2.3.
2.8.4 Summary
Normally, the preferred method of waste disposal is by mixing the
sand and clay together prior to disposal so that maximum consolidation,
rapid water recovery, and good soil properties can be obtained. How-
ever, this method has been determined to be infeasible for MCC's site
because of a lack of sufficient sand in the matrix.
For the MCC site, the sand/clay cap method is preferred from both
a technical and environmental standpoint. Sand/clay capping reduces
above ground clay storage areas from about 7,500 acres to about 3,700
acres, compared to the conventional waste disposal method. Water is
recovered from the clays more rapidly. The sand/clay ratio in the caps
would be about 8:1, which is not exceptionally good for agricultural
use, but is better than pure clay (which would occur in places with
conventional disposal). Also, the level of radioactivity in the upper
6 feet of soils would be reduced compared to that which could be
expected with conventional disposal practices.
2.8-9
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TABLE 2.8-1
MCC PROPOSED WASTE DISPOSAL/RECLAMATION PLAN:
APPROXIMATE ACREAGES AFFECTED
Grade/Fill
At-Grade/Clay
At-Grade/Clay
At-Grade/Clay
Sand Fill
Total
Cap
Above-Grade/Clay Sand/Clay
Sand/Clay
Areas
MC (except
MC-2 and MC-4)
DA-1
Tails/Overburden, MC-2, MC-4
Partial a
Tails/Overburden, DA (except
Partialb DA-1), A
Overburden
B, BCR
Acres
3,623
470
871
4,081
1,677C
10,722
aDredqe ponds.
bWith low, temporary dikes.
clncludes plant site plus areas for roads, rights-of-ways, and other
land disturbances.
-------
LEGEND:
{^s^sj CLAY DISPOSAL WITH SAND/CLAY CAP
WMMfa CLAY DISPOSAL WITH PARTIAL
W///////M TAILS /OVERBURDEN CAP
t---r>3 TAILINGS DISPOSAL WITH OVERBURDEN
I"— -mrJ CAP
NOTES:
1 DA-3, MC-2 - NUMBER REFERS TO
SEQUENCE IN WHICH STORAGE AREAS
BECOME OPERATIONAL,
2. BCR - BRUSHY CREEK RESERVOIR.
3 GIVEN ACREAGES ARE CORRECT, BUT
STORAGE AREAS ARE NOT DRAWN TO
SCALE.
SCALE JN MILES
"Figure 2.8-1. Conventional Method Plus Sand/Clay Cap Waste
Disposal Plan (Proposed by MCC).
-------
PRELIMINARY DAM DESIGN FOR INITIAL SETTLING AREA
C Existing Ground Surface
Dike
(Where Req'dL
^amsf
I min.J-SlopeTo Drain
(-~— '"— C rest E lev. 160'
Max. Pond Elev. 155'
Toe Roadway
Drainage Swale
(Grass Lined)
Clean To Slightly Silly Sand Fill
Borrow Area
Clayey Sands & Sandy Clays
80
60
40 £
Z
20 2
o 3
20
40
Source: MCC, 1977.
Figure 2.8-2. Proposed Dam Design for Clay Settling Areas.
-------
2.9 RECLAMATION
The MCC reclamation plan provides for restoration of all disturbed
land. Methods used to dispose of mining wastes determine the potential
reclamation land uses. The following sections detail the reclamation
alternatives which were considered for implementation at the MCC site.
Also included are environmental and technical considerations associated
with each alternative reclamation technique.
2.9.1 Conventional Method
The conventional reclamation alternative was presented in the
initial ADA/DRI (MCC, 1977) as the proposed plan. The conventional
method includes clay settling, sand fill, and land-and-lakes reclama-
tion. The following discussion summarizes the material presented in
the ADA/DRI.
2.9.1.1 Method Description
Waste clay settling would occur, in diked areas with a maximum
height of 60 feet. In a typical waste clay disposal area, consolida-
tion would be sufficient to allow light vehicle traffic approximately
five to seven years after the final fill. During this time, ditches
would be constructed to drain any remaining pockets of water from the
interior of the settling area. Portions of the dike retaining walls
would then be graded down onto the settling area. Since the dikes
would be constructed of overburden and sand tailings, an overburden/
sand tailings cap would be formed over much of the settling area. All
slopes would be graded to final contours. After grading was completed,
selected plant species would be established.
The clay settling area reuse and revegetation potential would
depend on the characteristics of the finished surface. Phosphatic
clays have suitable levels of calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, and
potassium for good plant growth. Initially, nitrogen would be the
plant nutrient which was deficient. Clays have good moisture and
nutrient retention characteristics due to the dominance of clay-sized
2.9-1
-------
particles. This results in a soil that is best suited for growing
forage crops for improved pasture use.
Improved pasture would be the dominant land use for reclaimed
waste clay areas. Reasons for this include the following: 1} many
•forage crops are available for use, 2) forage crops develop quickly and
prevent erosion, 3) organics are developed, 4) a minimal work effort is
required for pasture establishment and maintenance, and 5) improved
pasture can be converted to other uses. Areas being reclaimed as
improved pasture could be seeded with a variety of grass species,
including rye, millet, Argentina, and Pensacola bahia grass. Bahia
grass has been shown to survive well on sand, clay, and overburden
soils and is able to tolerate short-term flooding.
Legumes such as white clover and hairy indigo would also be con-
sidered for planting. In combination with their bacterial symbiont,
legumes have the ability to fix atmospheric nitrogen for use by higher
plants. A bacterial innoculation*of legume seeds would ensure the
capacity for nitrogen fixation.
Soil tests would be conducted to indicate fertilizer, lime, and/or
other soil needs prior to planting. Forage crops would then be pro-
tected from grazing until they were firmly established.
Tailings fill areas would be backfilled almost to original grade.
Overburden spoils would then be graded over the sand tailings. The
resultant land surfaces would be at or near natural grade. Consequent-
ly, the reclaimed land would likely have good structural stability,
allowing the possibility of future development (building construction),
should that become desirable.
Immediately after grading, tailings fill areas would be seeded
with rapidly-germinating grasses to stabilize the soil. Improved
pasture grasses are best suited for areas of this type. Coastal and
Bermuda grass species are suitable to well-drained areas, while Pen-
sacola bahia grass is preferred in areas experiencing short-term
flooding.
2.9-2
-------
The third reclamation type involves the formation of land-and
lakes areas by partial backfilling of mine cuts with sand tails and
overburden soils. The bottom and shoreline contours would be shaped so
that shallow zones would be created to promote establishment of aquatic
plant and animal species. This would require a significant earth-
moving effort.
Shorelines would be planted with bahia or Bermuda grasses in com-
bination with rye or millet. Select tree pl-antings would be undertaken
also. Among the tree species considered for use in hydric areas would
be cypress and blackgum; in transitional areas, red maple, sweetgum,
and laurel oak; and in mesic areas, slash pine and dogwood. The final
choice and distribution of plantings in land-and-lakes areas would be
made with the intention of blending water areas with nearby undisturbed
regions.
2.9.1.2 Environmental Considerations
The conventional reclamation alternative'has both environmental
advantages and disadvantages associated with its implementation. These
are summarized below:
1. Environmental Advantages:
0 The post-reclamation land uses would be similar to uses on
surrounding properties.
•
0 The deep lakes would serve as sediment entrapment basins and
would thus help to contain erosion and sediment within the
property boundary.
2. Environmental Disadvantages:
0 Post-reclamation elevations and topography would differ greatly
from that found at present.
0 Above-grade clay disposal dikes would remain visible following
reclamation.
2.9-3
-------
Post-reclamation elevations and topography would alter surface
water drainage patterns.
Some floral and faunal species associated with wetlands would be
lost if they could not become established in the land-and-lakes
areas.
Radioactivity levels in surface soils would be generally
increased over present conditions.
Soil fertility would not be conducive to agricultural land use
in areas which were covered primarily with waste clay.
2.9.1.3 Technical Considerations
Scheduling of reclamation procedures for clay settling areas is
fixed by the consolidation time required for adequate settling.
Usually, a five to seven-year period is allowed for final surface
crusting. This is followed by an additional five-year period of active
reclamation involving further dewatering and consolidation procedures,
grading and capping, and establishment of a plant covering.
Sand tailings fill and land-and-lakes areas require two years of
reclamation time following mining of each area.
All disturbed areas on the MCC property would be economically
restored to a productive state, considering both existing and created
environmental systems. Approximately 7,500 acres of clay settling
areas would be reclaimed to agricultural use. Land-and-lakes would
comprise a total of 3,000 acres. An additional 1,000 acres of tails
fill areas would be converted to general purpose areas.
2.9.2 Sand/Clay Mix Method
The sand/clay mix reclamation alternative includes clay settling,
sand/clay mix fills, and land-and-lakes reclamation. Descriptions of
these aspects of the reclamation plan and environmental and technical
considerations of the sand/clay mix alternative are detailed in the
following sections. As stated in Section 2.8, the sand/clay mix method
2.9-4
-------
is not technically practicable at the Hardee County mine because of the
low ratio of sand to clay.
2.9.2.1 Method Description
Although the nominal ratio of sand to clay on the MCC property is
1.92 to 1, a substantial amount of sand is required for construction of
dikes and for other purposes. This means that sand/clay fills having
an average sand/clay ratio of only 0.75 to 1 would be placed in desig-
nated areas on the MCC property. Stage-filling would then occur in
both above- and below-grade disposal areas. By using the stage-filling
technique, a greater degree of structural stability can be achieved.
In below-grade storage areas, the sand/clay mixture would be
deposited in three stages. After the initial fill has consolidated to
21 percent solids (after 3 years), a second fill (0.16 times the
original fill volume) would be added. The final fill would be placed 8
years following the initial fill. Following subsidence, the area would
be capped with a suitable capping material, bringing the area to'a
natural grade.
During the latter stages of mining (years 25 to 28), there would
be time for only two stage-fillings. Because of these time con-
straints, the initial fill volume would require temporary retaining
dikes. Three years after the initial fill was placed, a second fill
would be added. Following consolidation of the second fill, the dikes
would be graded over the fill, bringing the final elevation to natural
grade.
In above-grade sand/clay fill areas, dikes constructed from over-
burden would be required to retain the fill. Five years after the
initial fill, it is anticipated that these areas would have consoli-
dated to 21 to 25 percent clay solids. At that time, a second fill
(0.19 times the initial volume) would be added. Following consolida-
tion of this fill to about 24 to 25 percent clay solids, excess dike
material and other capping materials would be graded over the fill.
2.9-5
-------
Soils resulting from this type of reclamation would have the
potential for varied usage. Fertility would be improved over that of
the clay soils, and tillage properties would be better due to inclusion
of the sand tails. The type of plantings to be made would be decided
at the time of final revegetation. Actual land uses would depend on
site locations and associated conditions. Clay settling areas under
the sand/clay mix plan would be similar to those described for the con-
ventional method in Section 2.9.1.1. Differences between the plans
would be related to the elimination and reduction of some clay settling
areas. This would result in an increase in the areas allocated to
various land uses.
Revegetation would be similar to that outlined for the conven-
tional plan.
Land-and-lakes reclamation under the sand/clay mix alternative
would be similar in methodology and in total acreage created to that
described for the conventional reclamation alternative (Section
2.9.1.1). However, the depth of the lakes and their locations would be
significantly different. Under this alternative, most land mined in
the early stages of mine life would be returned to natural grade.
Areas mined beginning in year 29 would become shallow lakes with sand-
clay bottoms. Lakes created after this time would have a slightly
greater depth due to the lack of fill material and the greater matrix
depth.
1
Reclamation scheduling for clay settling areas is expected to be
similar to that described for the conventional reclamation alternative
(see Section 2.9.1.1). Most of the stage-filled sand/clay mix areas
would require approximately nine years to be completed. During the
latter stages of mining (years 25 to 28), there would be time for only
two stage fillings; consequently, the time to complete reclamation
activities would be reduced to seven years. Land-and-lakes reclamation
areas would require from two to four years for reclamation.
2.9-6
-------
2.9.2.2 Environmental Considerations
The advantages and disadvantages of the sand/clay mix reclamation
alternatives, relative to conventional reclamation, are summarized
below:
Advantages:
0 This method would result in a better soil profile and increased
fertility.
0 More land would be reclaimed to natural grade.
0 The land would be more structurally stable.
0 This plan would require shorter reclamation time.
0 Lakes areas would serve as sediment traps and provide wildlife
habitat.
0 Lakes would not be as deep as those in the conventional plan.
0 Radioctivity levels in surface soils would be lower than with
the conventional method.
Disadvantages:
0 Above-grade disposal areas would remain visible after reclama-
tion, with some areas still being as much as 40 to 45 feet
above-grade.
»
0 Surface water drainage patterns would be altered.
0 Some marsh and wetland areas would be lost, with lake areas
taking their place.
2.9.2.3 Technical Considerations
The primary technical considerations associated with the sand/
clay mix alternative center around subsidence and material consolida-
tion time, and the availability of the proper proportion of sand and
clays on the MCC site.
2.9-7
-------
Subsidence and material consolidation would be the same as that
described for the conventional plan (see Section 2.9.1.3). Land uses
for these areas would be restricted mainly to improved pasture. In
sand/clay mix areas, the consolidation time is expected to be reduced
from the time required for conventional settling (10 years, or more) due
to the inclusion of sand tailings. This is intended to shorten the
time period after mining during which reclamation activities can be
achieved. However, this method has not been used on a full scale pro-
ject sufficiently long to determine if such rapid reclamation can
actually be achieved. Increased dewatering of the mix is expected to
result in a more structurally stable material which may support more
intensive agriculture or other land uses. Land-and-lakes areas would
be reclaimed by the same methods described for the conventional plan.
2.9.3 Conventional Method with a Sand/clay Cap (Proposed by MCC)
A variation on the conventional method is presented in this sec-
tion. Under this plan, some clay settling areas would be capped with a
sand/clay mix after the clays had consolidated; others would be parti-
ally capped with tails and overburden from the dikes (Table 2.8-1).
Figure 2.9-1 shows the final contours expected after reclamation;
Figure 2.9-2 shows the final expected land use/habitat configuration.
2.9.3.1 Method Description
The actual mixing method for the sand/clay capping material would
be the same as that outlined in Section 2.9.2.1. Thickened clays would
be dredged from a settling area for mixing with sand tails, and the
mixture would then be pumped onto a conventional settling area (Figure
2.8-1). The capping mixture would be at an approximate 8:1 sand/clay
r at i o.
2.9.3.2 Environmental Considerations
The sand/clay cap reclamation method incorporates the same type of
benefits as those generally associated with the sand/clay mix method.
Because of the higher surface sand/clay ratio, capped areas would offer
advantages for both land use and revegetation potential in comparison
2.9-8
-------
with uncapped clay storage areas. Generally, radioactivity levels
would be lower for this method than for either of the two alternatives.
The cap would enable the surface layer to be cultivated with more ease
(compared with the conventional plan), while the clays would retain
moisture for plant growth. Structural stability would be achieved at a
faster rate than with the conventional method. Also, all benefits
associated with the sand/clay mix reclamation method would be applic-
able for the sand/clay capping procedure, except that even faster
settling and less acreage in above-grade storage areas would be
realized at the MCC site.
In addition, the phosphate resource in most of the clay wastes
would remain unmixed with sand and, therefore, available for future
phosphate recovery as technology advanced.
One of the disadvantages inherent in this reclamation method is
that only about 38 percent of the waste disposal areas would be capped
with the sand/clay mixture. The remainder would be covered with a com-
bination of tailings and overburden. Also, reclamation could be de-
layed if the clays did not consolidate as rapidly as predicted.
2.9.3.3 Technical Considerations
The major technical consideration associated with this reclamation
method is the timing of the cap placement. If the underlying clays
have not consolidated sufficiently when the cap is placed, it could
force the clays to rise up in places, thereby breaking the continuous
sand/clay cap.
Final grading and revegetation can proceed at a faster rate once
the cap has consolidated and dewatered.
2.9.4 Summary
The sand/clay cap method of land reclamation would approximate the
advantages normally attributed to sand/clay mixing (which is infeasible
for this site). Agricultural potential would be increased, and radio-
activity levels would be reduced compared to conventional land-and-
2.9-9
-------
lakes reclamation. Less above-ground waste storage would be necessary.
Topography and soils would be more adaptable to reclamation of wet-
lands. Only 3,700 acres of the land would be reclaimed at an elevation
above natural grade.
2.9-10
-------
SCALE IN MILES
SOURCE: MCC, 1977.
Figure 2.9-1. Final Reclamation Contours of MCC Site.
-------
Legend
Undltturbad Hardwoods
-~-4 Undlalurbed Marth
Propoaad Hardwood*
Proposed Marsh
Paiturt
Lake*
SCALE IN MILES
Figure 2.9-2. Expected Final Land Use on MCC Site.
-------
2.10 WETLANDS PRESERVATION
Habitats that have the highest ecological value on the MCC site
are primarily wetlands systems, which comprise approximately 25 percent
of the property. Although some of the wetlands on the site are not
functionally important, several other areas deserve consideration for
preservation status.
Wetlands set aside for preservation would be protected from the
direct and indirect effects of mining. Protective measures for a
specific wetland would include delineation of a non-mineable buffer
zone averaging 250 feet in width to reduce water drawdown impacts on
wetland species. During the phases of mining when water drawdown could
occur, a water-filled, rim ditch would be placed adjacent to the
protected wetland to provide a hydraulic gradient so that normal ground
water levels could be maintained. Except in areas where streams would
be rerouted prior to mining, wetlands along streams would be protected
by actively mining only along one side of the stream at a time. The
initial mine pit would be filled prior to mining the opposite side of
the stream to assure that the flow of ground water into adjacent
wetlands would not be severed entirely. Wetlands would be protected
from erosion by the use of hay bales, screens, and/or settling ponds
adjacent to the mining activity. In addition, personnel working near
wetlands would be trained to avoid disturbance of indigenous wetland
species.
The consideration of a wetland for preservation status must
include an assessment of the wetland1s value as well as the value of
the phosphate reserves that would be lost as a result of wetlands pre-
servation. Assigning a quantitative value to wetlands in terms of
economics, wetlands functions, or habitat value is largely subjective
and open to different interpretations which depend on the interests of
the evaluator. Values of phosphate reserves can be based on quantities
of ore lost and, to some extent, on economic losses to the mining and
agricultural industries. However, the actual dollar losses cannot be
defined with precision since variations will occur in market values
2.10-1
-------
during the years when the ore would be mined. A comparison of losses
in wetlands values versus losses in reserves, therefore, is difficult
because of the inability to quantify the wetlands value in a manner
similar to that for phosphate reserves.
To evaluate the impacts of mining or otherwise disturbing wetlands
versus the economic impacts of preserving these habitats, four wetlands
preservation alternatives were compared. The proposed mining plan and
waste storage plan were then overlain on each preservation scheme to
determine both the acreage of wetlands that would be lost if the plans
were implemented as well as the economic losses (in terms of tons of
phosphate ore) which would be sustained by MCC if the preservation
schemes were imposed.
The four wetland preservation alternatives considered are il-
lustrated on Figures 2.10-1 through 2.10-6. The alternative wetland
preservation/reclamation plans considered were: 1) the wetlands pro-
tected under the Florida Development Order, which was issued by Hardee
County and approved by the Florida Land & Water Adjudictory Commission;
2) the USEPA's wetland categorization plan, classifying MCC wetlands
using the general guidelines for regional wetlands protection and
restoration as defined in the Central Florida Phosphate Industry Area-
wide Impact Statement (USEPA, 1978); 3) a site-specific application of
the USEPA categorization plan; and 4) a wetlands systems preservation
plan. Wetlands preservation, according to each of these alternative
plans, affords a different set of ecological and hydrologic functions,
based on the size and complexity of the ecosystem and the association
of the system with flowing water bodies and floodplains.
The actual area of land and volume of ore lost to MCC as a result
of preserving specific wetlands depends on the size of the area and the
position of the area in the overall mining sequence. Preserving
several small wetlands would result in a greater loss of mining area
(because of buffer zones and dams that must be provided to protect the
wetlands) than would preservation of a single wetland of similar total
area.
2.10-2
-------
Although some wetlands may be set aside by the USEPA as protected
or preserved so that they will not be disturbed by mining activity, the
USEPA has also recognized the possibility that reclamation technology
may proceed to the extent that fully functional wetlands can be re-
stored. Therefore, the USEPA may re-evaluate the areas placed in pre-
servation status and remove some or all restrictions on mining in these
areas. Such a decision would be based on the assurance that the impor-
tant functional roles of the wetlands approved for mining are being, or
have been, replaced by ongoing reclamation projects conducted by MCC.
2.10.1 Wetlands Preserved and Restored Under the Hardee County
Development Order (Proposed by MCCj
2.10.1.1 Plan Description
This alternative has been approved by Hardee County and the
Florida Land and Water Adjudicatory Commission in a Development Order,
Resolution Number 78-10, finalized March 17, 1981. This Development
Order requires the demonstration of an ability to restore wetlands
prior to mining of specified areas shown on Figure 2.,10-1.
Under this plan, six individual, experimental wetlands would be
constructed on the MCC property, each approximately one acre in size.
Three of these would be designed to become hardwood swamps and three to
develop into fresh water marshes. Following clearing and excavation,
these wetlands would be developed to the functional equivalent of the
undisturbed wetlands on the site. Functional equivalency would be
determined by comparison with six model wetlands on the site, which
would be studied in detail to evaluate the following parameters:
vegetative composition, vegetative structural complexity, vegetative
productivity, litter weight, litter depth, bird density and diversity,
mammal density and diversity, water quality, and hydrological charac-
teristics. If the parameters measured in the model wetlands were found
to be similar to those measured in the experimental plots, or if a
progression of these parameters towards values found in the model was
evident, then mining of the following, previously-preserved areas
(Figure 2.10-1) would be allowed:
2.10-3
-------
A 57-acre hardwood swamp in Section 29;
A 112-acre fresh water marsh in Sections 32, 33, 4, and 5; and
A 64-acre hardwood swamp in Section 17.
Using information gained from the wetlands restoration pilot pro-
ject, MCC would create hardwood swamps and fresh marshes in the areas
shown on Figure 2.10-7. Approximately 390 acres of hardwoods and 1,620
acres of marsh would be restored to replace wetlands lost through
mining activities. Restoration of stream flows and beds would also be
included under this plan. A summary of wetlands affected by this plan
is provided in Table 2.10-1.
2.10.1.2 Environmental, Technical, and Economic Considerations
As Table 2.10-1 shows, 440 acres of wetlands would be unaffected
by mining operations (Column B) throughout the mine life. An addi-
tional 233 acres (Column C), containing 6.71 million tons (Column D) of
phosphate ore, would be placed into preservation status and could be
mined or used for clay storage only if the proposed demonstration
project successfully illustrated MCC's ability to restore equivalent,
functional wetlands. If the proposed mining plan is approved to allow
mining and clay storage in the 233 acres of preserved wetlands, then
MCC would disturb a total of 2,540 acres (Column E) of wetlands, and by
the end of the mine life, would reclaim a total of 2,010 acres (Column
F). This would result in a post reclamation total of 2,450 acres of
wetlands (Column G) on the MCC site (440 acres of unaffected wetlands
plus 2,010 acres of reclaimed wetlands).
If wetland restoration progressed as proposed under this plan,
then an increase in overall habitat quality and value would result for
the MCC property following mining activities. The environmental
advantages that would be realized from this proposed mining/reclamation
program include:
2.10-4
-------
1) Increased contiguities between wetlands and site streams;
decreased acreages of isolated wetlands currently located
alonq these streams (Figure 2.10-7);
2) Enhanced stream-physiography; sloping banks and meandering
stream beds would replace existing, channelized streams; and
3) Development of a research-level data base for wetlands and
stream reclamation.
The environmental disadvantages of implementing this preservation
plan include:
1) A net decrease of 465 acres of marshes and 65 acres of swamps;
and
2) A period of approximately 8 years (years 20-28, Figure 2.10-8)
during which the total wetlands on the site would be reduced
by about 50 percent.
2.10.2 USEPA Areawide Categorization of Wetlands (Alternative)
2.10.2.1 Plan Description
The final Central Florida Phosphate Industry Areawide Impact
Assessment (USEPA, 1978) stated that the loss of wetlands was an impor-
tant impact resulting from mine construction activity. Therefore, it
was recommended that those wetlands with high functional value (with
emphasis on floodplain wetlands) be protected from development. A wet-
lands categorization system was developed to serve as a guideline for
regulating the mining and reclamation of wetlands on new source mine
sites. This system characterizes wetlands in three categories (USEPA,
1978):
Category I — Protected
"...wetlands within and contiguous to rivers and streams having an
average annual flow exceeding 5 cubic feet per second (cfs) as
well as other specific wetlands determined to serve essential en-
vironmental functions, including water quality (these are wetlands
2.10-5
-------
that provide an essential synergistic support to the ecosystem
ecosystem and that would have an unacceptable adverse impact if
they were altered, modified, or destroyed). This generally in-
cludes cypress swamps, swamp forests, wet prairies, and certain
fresh water marshes."
Category II - Mine and Restore
"...wetlands that should be restored as wetlands to perform useful
wetland functions. This also includes certain isolated noncate-
gory wetlands that serve a primary function or several minor
functions that may be maintained through proper restoration."
Category III - Mine with No Restoration to Wetlands
"...wetlands that would not have to be restored as wetlands.
These are isolated and normally intermittent in nature, have less
significant hydrological functions than Category II, and minimal
life-support value."
By protecting wetlands which are closely associated with major
streams (greater than 5 cfs mean annual flow), the important functions
of water quality enhancement, flood control potential, and wildlife
habitat are preserved. The USEPA approach was developed as a broad,
conceptual categorization scheme to protect the nation's waters, parti-
cularly in the seven-county phosphate region of central Florida. As
such, it did not address individual wetlands on a site by site basis.
It was recognized that some modifications would be necessary for
specific mine sites.
Figures 2.10-2, 2.10-3, and 2.10-4 illustrate the wetlands on the
MCC site within each of the three USEPA categories, as strictly defined
in the Areawide EIS. Acreages of wetlands in each category that would
be affected directly or indirectly by the proposed mining and clay
storage plan are shown in Table 2.10-1.
2.10-6
-------
2.10.2.2 Environmental. Technical, and Economic Considerations
This preservation alternative is characterized by the same en-
vironmental advantages as the proposed action (Section 2.10.1), except
considerably more area is preserved under this alternative (1,060
acres) thaa under the proposed plan (233 acres). If not made available
for mining, loss of the 1,060 acres of preserved wetlands would render
approximately 30 million tons of phoshpate ore (Column D) unrecover-
able. This plan provides comprehensive protection of floodplain wet-
lands, many of which, however, are small and not naturally contiguous
to flowing water bodies.
MCC's proposed mining and reclamation plan would disturb 958 acres
of protected Category I wetlands and would later increase these Cate-
gory I wetlands from 1,060 acres (Column A) to 1,435 acres (Column 6).
This increase would be largely the result of MCC's proposal to develop
wetlands contiguous to Brushy and Oak Creeks.
2.10.3 Site-Specific Application of USEPA.Criteria (Alternative)
2.10.3.1 Plan Description
This wetlands classification scheme was based on site-specific
application of the broad wetlands categorization described in Section
2.10.2 This site-specific application would preserve those wetlands of
high functional and/or habitat value and would place into USEPA Cate-
gory II those wetlands which had a relatively low ecological value due
to their isolation or their connection with 5 cfs streams only by man-
made canals. On the other hand, wetlands which were not within the
25-year floodplain but were structurally unique or functionally impor-
tant would be classified as Category I and would be preserved under
this scheme.
The wetlands on the MCC site that would be classified as Category
I under this alternative are shown on Figure 2.10-5. Acreages of wet-
lands in each category on the MCC site, using this site-specific ap-
proach, and acres affected by the proposed mine and reclamation plan
are listed in Table 2.10-1.
2.10-7
-------
Categorization of MCC site wetlands by the site-specific scheme
results in an overall reduction of Category I wetlands and a propor-
tional increase in acreage of Category II wetlands (compared to the
areawide categorization alternative in Section 2.10.2). Major wetland
areas that are excluded from preservation by this method include wet-
lands in the 25-year floodplain between Oak and Brushy Creeks (Figure
2.10-2, Sections 30, 31, and 32), which are infrequently flooded by Oak
Creek due to the historical rerouting of the mainstream channel. These
wetland areas, which are not direct components of the normal, cyclical,
hydrological regime of the Oak Creek floodplain, are not as functional-
ly important as those which are more directly connected with the main
Oak Creek stream. Following mining, restoration of wetlands in loca-
tions which are geographically, as well as hydrologically, more closely
related to existing stream channels (as planned) would enhance the
overall floodplain value compared to present conditions.
Most of the remaining wetlands excluded from the broader applica-
tion of the areawide characterization scheme by this site-specific
application are those wetlands which are located within the normal 25-
year floodplain boundaries of Brushy Creek but are isolated from the
mainstream channel (Figure 2.10-2).
2.10.3.2 Environmental, Technical, and Economic Considerations
The environmental advantages described for the proposed action
(Section 2.10.1) would also be realized as a result of the institution
of this preservation plan.
As indicated in Table 2.10-1, this site-specific alternative would
result in 233 acres (Column C) of wetlands being preserved or protected
(in additon to the 440 acres listed in Column B which would be un-
affected by mining) and the consequent loss of 6.71 million tons of
phosphate ore.
If mining and waste storage were eventually allowed in these wet-
lands, the total wetlands classified as Category I after restoration
2.10-8
-------
would increase from 233 to 1,433 acres (Column G). As part of a
restoration project distinct and separate from, but in addition to, the
restoration program identified in the Hardee County Development Order
(Section 2.10.1), a program to create 90 acres of wetlands in historic-
ally wet areas would be conducted. Parts of Section 32, T34S-R24E and
Section 31, T34S-R24E have been identified as potential sites for this
program (Appendix A).
Soil structure is an essential element of wetland systems but has
been difficult to establish in restoration projects. However, histori-
cally wet areas should have the appropriate soil characteristics and
therefore could substantially add to wetland restoration knowledge and
technology. Since there are many drained wetlands throughout the
phosphate district, this type of restoration project would be essential
for mitigation of past and potential future losses of wetlands. The
extensively altered hydrologic character of the MCC property provides
suitable sites for conducting a study of this nature.
2.10.4 Wetlands Systems (Alternative)
2.10.4.1 Plan Description
Protection of wetlands as components of important systems would
preserve not only individual wetlands that have water quality enhance-
ment potential, flood control capability, and/or good fish and wildlife
value, but would also preserve non-wetland components that comprise
larger systems with high diversity and ecological interaction with
adjacent wetlands.
Five major wetlands systems on the MCC site were identified for
preservation; these are shown on Figure 2.10-6. Some of the wetlands
which were classified as Category I and Category II, using the site-
specific USEPA approach, were included in these systems. This method
assumes that the presence of mesic hammock between and surrounding
certain wetlands enhances their overall ecological value, based on the
interactions between upland and wetland habitats (see Section 3.2.3).
2.10-9
-------
Using the wetlands systems preservation approach, the wetlands
that are not shown as Category I on Figure 2.10-6 or Category III on
Figure 2.10-4 would be considered as Category II (mine and restore)
wetlands. Acreages within these three categories on the MCC property
using this systems preservation plan, and acres of wetlands affected by
the proposed action, are illustrated in Table 2.10-1.
2.10.4.2 Environmental, Technical, and Economic Considerations
Table 2.10-1 illustrates that this alternative preservation plan
would result in preservation of 720 acres of wetlands (1,007 acres of
Category I ecosystem less 287 acres of mesic hammock), with a total
loss to MCC of 29 million tons (Column D) of phosphate ore. If mining
and reclamation were to proceed as proposed, the total area of Category
I wetland systems on the site would be increased to 1,357 acres (Column
G).
Four of the five wetland areas preserved under this plan would
comprise a significant portion of the Oak Creek drainage system.
Protection of these areas would preserve the wetlands that are integral
components of the Oak Creek ecosystem (Figure 2.10-6). Although por-
tions of Systems D and E (Figure 2.10-6) would be preserved by the
areawide USEPA approach, Systems B and C would not be preserved since
they are not within the 5 cfs floodplain of Oak Creek. Preservation of
Systems B and C would protect areas that are structurally diverse,
relatively large, and highly productive. Although the flow of these
systems is usually less than 1 cfs, periodic flushing probably con-
tributes nutrients to enhance downstream productivity.
Using this preservation scheme, the wetlands that are recognized
as part of System A in the northern portion of Brushy Creek on the MCC
site (Figure 2.10-6) would be the only wetlands of significance placed
under preservation status on Brushy Creek. Many of the wetlands
classified as Category I under the USEPA preservation alternative would
be excluded from preservation status under this plan. This is primari-
ly because of their small size and the high degree of disturbance by
2.10-10
-------
channelization and agriculture along Brushy and Oak Creeks. However,
many wetlands that would have been placed in Category II under the
USEPA scheme, because of their location outside of the floodplain or
location on streams with less than 5 cfs flow, would be given preserva-
tion status under the systems approach. This change in status results
because, under a systems preservation scheme, these areas would be pro-
tected primarily as integral parts of the wetland system watershed. In
addition, the presence of mesic hammock interlaced between these wet-
lands would enhance the overall wildlife value of the ecosystem.
2.10.5 Summary
Of the four wetlands preservation plans, the maximum acreage would
be protected by direct application of the USEPA Areawide EIS cate-
gories, and the least by MCC's and the USEPA1 s site specific proposal
(Table 2.10-1). The wetlands systems plan would preserve wetlands with
the greatest functional value on the site. The area! extent of present
site wetlands with high functional value is indicated by the reduction
in acres of wetlands (from 1,060 to 233 acres) remaining in Category I
when site specific functional values are considered. The amount of ore
reserves lost by preserving wetlands according to these plans ranges
from 6.71 million tons for MCC's and the USEPA1s site specific proposal
to 30 million tons for the USEPA areawide categorization. Another
major difference between the plans is that all wetlands to be preserved
under the proposed preservation plan and sitespecific wetland plan
occur in areas unaffected by mining or waste disposal until 17 or more
years after mining activity begins. This delay in affecting these wet-
lands means that time is available for MCC to demonstrate that these
wetlands could be reclaimed and, therefore, there is a chance the 6.71
million tons of phosphate reserve could still be recovered. In con-
trast, the other two preservation plans include some wetlands which are
planned to be mined or receive waste clays early in the mine life.
Insufficient time would be available to demonstrate reclamation feasi-
bility; a minimum loss of 3.14 million tons of phosphate reserves would
occur, with no chance for future recovery of the ore. There is, of
2.10-11
-------
course, no guarantee that any of the phosphate reserves listed in
Column D of Table 2.10-1 could ever be recovered since mining activity
in these areas would require demonstration that reclamation of wetland
functions could be achieved.
MCC's plans for wetlands reclamation are also shown on Table
2.10-1. A total of 2,010 acres would be reclaimed, including 390 acres
of swamp and 1,620 acres of marsh. Including wetlands unaffected by
mining operations (440 acres), post-reclamation wetlands would total
2,450 acres, or 82 percent of present wetland acreage. The reclaimed
wetlands are expected to have greater functional value than do present
wetlands since existing wetlands are mostly isolated or connected only
by channelized drainage ditches. This is reflected in the fact that
total post-reclamation wetlands acreage in Category I is substantially
greater than present Category I wetlands acreage for any of the wetland
preservation plan categorizations (Table 2.10-1). Thus, reclamation is
expected to provide a shift from Category II and III wetlands to
Category I wetlands.
From an environmental perspective, the preferred preservation plan
would be the wetlands system plan, which provides maximum protection to
functioning wetlands systems. The MCC and USEPA site specific propo-
sals protects the least amount of wetlands acreage. However, the
wetlands system plan would potentially eliminate 31 percent of the
economically recoverable phosphate reserves from mining, including 3.14
million tons with a present net value of $93.4 million which could not
be recovered subsequently even if reclamation were proven to be
possible. The USEPA areawide categorization plan would also eliminate
the same 3.14 million tons due to protection of these same wetlands.
The proposed preservation plan protects the wetlands system on Oak
Creek which contributes the most to water quality enhancement on the
site. Maximum losses in phosphate reserves would be 6.71 million tons,
all of -which could potentially be recovered if reclamatfon were
demonstrated to be possible.
An additional aspect of the site-specific categorization plan is
that an experimental restoration program would be pursued to
2.10-12
-------
demonstrate the ability of creating wetlands in historically wet areas.
This program would add an additional 90 acres of wetlands to the total
proposed for restoration by MCC.
2.10-13
-------
TABLE 2.10-1
PRESERVATION ALTERNATIVES3
Alternative Wetlands Preservation Plans
Page 1 of 2
Wetland Effects of MCC's Proposed
Mlninn Rorlama-Hnn A.--HU i + Ioc"» c
A
B
C
Wetlands Wetlands
Wetlands Unaffected by Protected Under
On Site Mining Operations Preservation Plan
Proposed by MCC
(Figure 2.10-1)
Habitat
Swamp 490
Marsh 2,490
Total ' 2,980
USEPA Areawlde Categories (Figures
Category
r~"^
II
1 1
1,060d
1,538
382
2,980
Site-Specific Application of USEPA
Category
T~"^
II
1 II
Wetlands Systems
Category
l_-
II
1 II
233
2,358
389
2,980
Categories (Figure
I.OO/1
1,871
389
35
405
440
2.10-2, 2.10-3, and
102
165
173
440
Areawide Categories
100
160
180
440
2.10-6)
24
236
180
120
113
233
2.10-4)
1,060
1,060
(Figure 2.10-5)
233
233
1,007
D
Ore Reserves
Lost Under
Preservation Plan
3.57
3.14
6.71
30
30
6.71
6.71
29
E
Wetlands
Disturbed
455
2,085
2,540
958
1,373
209
2,540
130
2,201
209
2,540
980
1,351
209
F
Wetl ands
Reel a imed
390
1,620
2,010
1,333s
677
2,010
1,333s
677
2,010
1,333s
677
G
Total Post
Reel anBt Ion
Wetl ands
(Columns B i F)
425
2,025
2,450
1,435
842
173
2,450
1,433
837
180
2,450
1,357
913
180
3,267
440
1,007
29
2,540
2,010
2,450
-------
TABLE 2.10-1 (Continued) Pa9e 2 of 2
aAII numbers are in acres (approximate), except Column D which is in millions of tons.
''Data in these columns represent effects of MCC's planned mining and reclamation activities (as approved
by the Florida Development Order) on the various categories of wetlands defined in each preservation plan.
MCC's plan assumes mining and subsequent reclamation of wetlands listed in Column C in order to recover the
reserves listed in Column D.
Includes Category I and 25 percent of Category II.
^Includes 287 acres of mesic hammock.
Categories of wetlands reclaimed are based on the classification system
presented in the Central Florida Phosphate Industry Areawide Impact Statement
(USEPA, 1978).
-------
LEGEND:
SWAMP
MARSH
Figure 2.10-1. Wetlands Protected by Hardee County Development Order, Resolution No. 78-10.
-------
LEGEND
CATEGORY I WETLANDS
„-— 25 YEAR FLOOD LEVEL
^ CREEKS
Figure 2.10-2. USEPA Category I Wetlands, Mississippi Chemical Corporation,
-------
ft
LEGEND
CATEGORY Oo-e WETLANDS
CATEGORY Dd WETLANDS
CREEKS
Figure 2.10-3. USEPA Category II Wetlands, Mississippi Chemical Corporation.
-------
%.
i
$
$
L—Hl,
&
0*
O
D
£/
If
CP 5 \
*Qo / <> ^
> \ d^°
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\
•••»
•\ f*
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LEGEND:
CATEGORY ID WETLANDS
A CREEKS
%
*
1^-
'. m
"5
t
,-r,Mv.Q 9 in_A IKFDA
TTI Wetlands. MississiDDi Chemical Corporation.
-------
LEGEND:
CATEGORY I WETLANDS
_-- 25 YEAR FLOOD LEVEL
,- CREEKS
ET4 i-ti .i^^» O
T u0ti>nH<;. MIssissiDol Chemical Corporation.
-------
LEGEND:
MARSH
MESIC HAMMOCK
I [SWAMP
Figure 2
.10-6. Functionally Important Wetlands Systems on MCC Property.(Category I,
Table 2.10-1)
-------
Undisturbed Hardwoods
^r3 Undisturbed Marsh
Proposed Hardwoods
e*_~-i Proposed Marsh
> Proposed Lakes
Figure 2.10-7. Proposed Final Wetlands Configuration.
-------
3OO
LEGEND:
A TOTAL ACRES OF WETLANDS
ON PROPERTY (NATURAL AND
UNDER RECLAMATION) OVER
DURATION OF PROJECT
• ACRES OF MARSHES UNDER
RECLAMATION
D ACRES OF SWAMP UNDER
RECLAMATION
• ACRES OF NATURAL MARSHES
REMAINING ON SITE
ACRES OF NATURAL SWAMPS
REMAINING ON SITE
YEARS FROM START OF PROJECT
Figure 2.10-8. Wetlands Losses and Replacement Over the MCC Project Life.
-------
THIS PAGE LEFT BLANK INTENTIONALLY
-------
2.11 PRODUCT TRANSPORT
2.11.1 System Description
Phosphate rock must be shippea from the mine at Ona to a local or
port destination as efficiently and safely as possible with minimum
potential for disruption. It is assumed that little of the rock would
be sold locally. The alternatives selected for assessment are:
(1) railroad to Tampa (truck as emergency option), barge to Pascagoula
or other customer (proposed by MCC); (2) truck to Tampa, barge to
Pascagoula; (3) slurry pipeline to Tampa, barge to Pascagoula; and
(4) railroad to Pascagoula. The possibility of transporting rock by
conveyer to Tampa was discarded as impractical because of the enormous
capital costs, right-of-way difficulties, maintenance problems, and
long-term disruption of other land uses.
2.11.2 Environmental Considerations
Railroads are well-established in central Florida and are gen-
erally considered the most economical and environmentally acceptable
method of transporting bulk cargo between two fixed locations over
land. Trains can disrupt traffic at highway intersections and generate
noise adjacent to the right-of-way, however.
Trucks are a very flexible means of cargo transport. However,
traffic disruption, safety, energy use, and air pollution are signifi-
cant drawbacks. Also, it is not known if the present road sytems have
the capacity to handle the additional truck traffic which would be
generated by the project (approximately 430 trucks daily).
Pipelines are an energy efficient, reliable, and virtually impact-
free (after construction is complete) method of transportation. How-
ever, the costs of construction and the great difficulty of obtaining
rights-of-way are significant drawbacks to pipeline usage.
A comparison of energy use for the alternative methods of product
transport is shown in Table 2.11-1. Disregarding the costs of pipeline
construction, the most energy-efficient method of transport is by pipe-
line to Tampa, then barge to Pascagoula. An additional 0.0028 bbl
2.11-1
-------
of oil per ton of rock is required to transport by rail to Tampa (this
is 2800 bbl of oil per 1 million tons of rock). The other two alter-
natives require substantially more energy.
2.11.3 Summary
From an environmental standpoint, the proposed plan of rail trans-
port to Tampa and barge to Pascagoula is preferable. There would be
virtually no construction activity; traffic would be confined to unit
trains along existing, dedicated transport routes; energy use would be
very nearly the lowest of all alternatives. In addition, costs would
be substantially lower than for the other alternatives.
2.11-2
-------
TABLE 2.11-1
ENERGY USE FOR PRODUCT TRANSPORT ALTERNATIVES
Transport System
Rail to Tampa
Barge to Pascagoula
(Proposed by MCC)
Distance Transported
(miles)
Energy Usage Rate
(Btu/ton-mile)
Energy Use
(Bbl No. 6 fuel oil
equivalent per ton rock)
Energy Usea
(Bbl No. 6 fuel oil
equivalent)
Rail:
Barge:
Rail:
Barge:
Rail:
Barge:
Total :
49,
60
440
700
600
0.0068
0.0425
0.0493
300
Truck
Barge to
Truck
Barge
Truck
Barge
Truck
Barge
Total
66,
to Tampa
Pascagoula
: 60
: 440
: 2500
: 600
: 0.0243
: 0.0425
: 0.0668
800
Slurry Pipeline
to Tampa
Barge to Pascagoula Rail to Pascagoula
Pipel
Barge
Pipel
Barge
Pipel
Barge
Total
46,
ine: 50
: 440
ine: 500
: 600
ine: 0.0040
: 0.0425
0.0465
500
Rail: 705
Rail: 700
Rail: 0.0800
Total 0.080U
80,000
Calculated for 1 million tons per year of dry rock processed at Pascagoula.
-------
THIS PAGE LEFT BLANK INTENTIONALLY
-------
2.12 NO ACTION
2.12.1 Background
The no action alternative would be denial of an NPDES permit. MCC
cannot design a zero discharge system in central Florida because of the
exceptionally heavy rains which frequently occur. Therefore, this
option would effectively prevent phosphate mining on the proposed MCC
site. No action would allow the area to continue along its present-day
environmental and socioeconomic trends. These trends are summarized
below with reference to the potential influence of the proposed mining
project. No intensive development of the MCC site is expected to occur
in the foreseeable future; primarily, land use is expected to remain
principally that of- unimproved pasture.
2.12.2 Effects of No Action
2.12.2.1 Water Resources
Surface Water
Under the proposed action, the drainage areas of both Brushy and
Oak Creeks would be reduced in size as a result of mining ana waste
disposal activities (Section 3.2.1.2). In addition, under certain
stream flow conditions, water would be diverted to a holding pond
(Brushy Creek Reservoir) from Brushy Creek for make-up water usage.
These activities would decrease the average flow in the two principal
streams on the site, Oak and Brushy Creeks. Without the project, the
stream flow would remain as it is now.
Some water quality changes may also occur in Oak Creek as a result
of periodic discharges from the clear water holding pond. If the pro-
posed project is not undertaken, water quality would not be changed.
Ground Water
For the proposed mining plan, ground water would be withdrawn from
the lower Floridan aquifer to provide process make-up water. In addi-
tion, it would be necesary to dewater the mine pits so that the phos-
phate matrix could be extracted effectively. The former activity would
2.12-1
-------
result in a lowering of the water table in the lower Floridan aquifer;
the latter activity would cause temporary lowering of the surficial
aquifer water level, possibly interfering with water usage by offsite
users. If the proposed mine plan was not implemented, the ground water
levels would remain as they are, and nearby surface aquifer water users
would not experience any temporary inconvenience which might result
from dewatering operations on the site.
Approximately 14,084,640 gpd of make-up water (consumptive use)
required for project operations would be entrapped in wastes and in the
product. Although this volume of water would not be returned to the
hydrogeologic system, its loss would not result in any long-term nega-
tive impacts on the site's water supply (Section 3.2.2.2).
2.12.2.2 Biology
Approximately 72 percent of the MCC site would be mined or used
for waste disposal and then reclaimed under the proposed mining plan.
As a result, much of the site's wildlife habitat would be disturbed
(though not concurrently) until after reclamation.
If the MCC site were not mined, the terrestrial, aquatic, and wet-
lands habitats on the site would continue to change gradually as a
result of natural conditions and existing agricultural ativities, but
they would not experience the disruptive effects of mining operations.
However, the proposed reclamation plan would restore many of the
disturbed habitats to a more productive state than presently exists;
this benefit would not be realized unless mining and reclamation
occurred. For example, the Brushy Creek wetlands in the southern and
central part of the property would remain largely isolated from, and
would not be reclaimed to join with, the stream; presently channelized
portions of Oak and Brushy Creeks would not be reclaimed to a
more natural configuration and, likely, a more productive state; and
improved pasture productivity and citrus production capacity would not
be realized.
2.12-2
-------
2.12.2.3 Air Resources
Air quality impacts resulting from the proposed action include
sulfur dioxide and particulate emissions from the rock dryer and
associated equipment as well as some particulate emissions from the
mine site itself. However, the proposed activities would not cause
exceedance of any state or federal air quality standards. Without the
project, air quality in the site area would not change.
2.12.2.4 Socioeconomics
The regional and local baseline data and projections (see TSD-IV
and Section 3.5) indicate that, if the "no-action" alternative were
selected, neither significant positive nor negative effects would be
experienced in the study area with respect to expected changes in popu-
lation, economic growth, or in demands for community services and faci-
lities. In the absence of new mine development, demographic and em-
ployment trends of the region and local area are expected to continue
at their present and projected future rate.
The general result of the "no-action" alternative on socioeconomic
conditions in Hardee County and the seven-county region would be un-
realized, potential economic benefits. Property taxes which would be
paid to Hardee County by MCC each year are anticipated to range from
$750,000 to $1,200,000. This is from three to five times the amount
the land would generate as agricultural land. The severance tax on
phosphate ore removed from the property is estimated at $1,500,000
(half of this is refundable to MCC for approved reclamation
activities). Annual expenditures by MCC for products and services
would not be realized if the permit were not granted. State
sales tax revenue on these expenditures is estimated to be between
$747,000 and $914,000 per year (MCC, 1977).
The most significant result of the "no-action" alternative would
be the loss of 94.5 million tons of phosphate rock reserves, a valu-
able, non-renewable resource. This loss of phosphate rock would con-
stitute denial of the socioeconomic benefits of phosphate to United
2.12-3
-------
States farmers, to agricultural support industries, and to the poten-
tial consumers of fertilizer-subsidized products. No action would also
result in a loss of considerable project investment by MCC, and thus by
the Corporation's 21,QUO farmer-owners.
2.12.2.5 Land Use
At the present time, land in Hardee County and on the site is used
primarily for agricultural purposes. The general trend toward
agricultural usage would probably continue if a no-action alternative
were followed.
2.12.2.6 Historical and Archeological Resources
If the MCC site were not mined, the limited historic and
archeologic resources would remain intact. However, if the "no-action"
alternative were implemented, Aboriginal Site 1, the only site on the
MCC property considered to have potential cultural value (Section 3.5.3
and TSD-IV), would not be surveyed.
2.12.2.7 Radiology
As discussed in Section 3.6 and TSD-V, the reclaimed clay disposal
areas with partial caps could marginally exceed the USEPA-recommended
average external gamma radiation level. This indicates that buildings
constructed on these areas after reclamation could exceed federally
recommended indoor working levels for radon daughters. Recommended
radiation levels are not expected to be exceeded on tailings disposal
areas or on clay disposal areas with sand/clay caps.
If the MCC project were not undertaken, radiation levels on the
site would remain the same as they are at present, and indoor working
levels would not be above the recommended limits. However, local con-
struction site preparation could mitigate the radiation levels of re-
claimed clay storage areas so that there should be no restriction to
construction on reclaimed land due to the proposed action.
2.12-4
-------
2.12.3 Summary
Implementation of the no action alternative would prevent MCC from
mining phosphate reserves on tneir Hardee County property. This would
eliminate the following short term adverse impacts: reduction of sur-
face water quality and flow in streams on the site; withdrawal of ap-
proximately 12.3 mgd from the Floridan aquifer; habitat disruption on
approximately 8,200 acres of uplands and 2,540 acres of wetlands;
localized increases in particulates and S02; an increase in radio-
activity of surface soils above waste clay disposal areas; and destruc-
tion of archeological sites. Such a decision would also eliminate the
following beneficial impacts: recovery of 94 million tons of phosphate
reserves for use as a fertilizer; job opportunities and tax revenues
associated with the project; and expected improvement in wetlands
quality on the site after reclamation.
2.12-5
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2.13 POSTPONEMENT OF ACTION
Phosphate is needed for fertilizer production. As the rich
phosphate ore reserves are depleted by mining activities, it will be
necessary to exploit the known reserves of lower quality ore in areas
such as Hardee County. A delay in implementing MCC's proposed mining
plan would postpone the availability of the MCC site phosphate reserves
for fertilizer manufacture.
In addition, postponement of the action would have several econo-
mic impacts. It would delay mine-associated benefits to the county
which would result from increased job opportunities, payroll, and
taxes. The benefit of sales and severance taxes which would accrue to
the state as a result of mining activities on the MCC site would also
be postponed. Postponement would mean a loss to MCC of approximately
$7 million annually for interest on the land holdings and $24 million
annually due to inflation on the mine facility; these amounts would be
compounded with time. Postponement would also impact MCC's 21,000
*
farmer-owners since the money that they have invested is not productive
until the phosphate is sold.
Although the postponement of mining on the MCC site could slow
development of the technology necessary to mine these low quality
reserves, a period of mining deferral could also permit technological
advances in waste disposal and reclamation. Such advances might mean,
for example, better water recovery from waste clays and more efficient
and productive reclamation of mined lands than would be possible with
current technology.
2.13-1
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2.14 USEPA'S PREFERRED ALTERNATIVE AND RECOMMENDED ACTION
Based on the environmental, technical, and economic analyses pre-
sented in the DEIS and supporting documents, the USEPA's preferred
alternative for the proposed MCC project is outlined below.
Mining: Dragline
Matrix Transport: Slurry pipeline
Matrix Processing: Conventional beneficiation
Rock Drying: Dryer at Ona site
Process Water Source: Ground/Surface water
Wastewater Treatment: Discharge to surface waters
Waste Disposal: Sand/Clay cap
Reclamation: Conventional with sand/clay cap, restoration of
onsite streams and Category II wetlands disrupted by
mining activities.
Wetlands Preservation: Site-specific application of Areawide EIS
wetland criter.ia.
«
From a purely environmental perspective, matrix transport by a
conveyor system and the sand/clay mix waste disposal alternative are
preferable to slurry pipeline transport and sand/clay cap waste dispo-
sal. The conveyor transport system at present is clearly technically
infeasible for use in the central Florida phosphate district. Matrix
transport by slurry pipeline is proven technology and environmentally
acceptable.
The sand/clay mix alternative has been .identified as a means to
reduce the volume of storage area required to dispose of the waste
clays associated with the phosphate beneficiation process. This would
reduce the number and volume of above-grade clay storage areas and
would clearly be desirable. Because of the low ratio (less than 2.0 to
1) of sand to clay on the property, full implementation of this alter-
native is not technically feasible. The MCC ore matrix is charac-
terized by a higher percentage of clay than acceptable for use of this
technology. The sand/clay cap alternative proposed by MCC optimizes
2.14-1
-------
use of the onsite geological resources and is environmentally acep-
table.
The wetlands preservation alternative preferred by the USEPA is
the site-specific application of the Areawide EIS wetland criteria.
The site-specific alternative identified only the three onsite wet-
lands, totalling 233 acres (Figure 2.10-5), as being characteristic of
Category I wetlands and worthy of preservation. The wetlands systems
alternative (Section 2.10.4) identified two additional wetland areas
(Areas A and C; Figure 2.10-6) as being of importance on the site.
Because of the extensive stream channelization existing on the proper-
ty, the small and isolated natures of most wetlands, and the generally
lesser habitat and water quality value of these wetlands, they were not
identified as characteristic of Category I wetlands. In view of the
loss of these wetlands, a 90-acre restoration program would be con-
ducted as an integral part of the USEPA1s preferred alternative. This
90-acre program would be in addition to the restoration program identi-
fied in the Hardee County Development Order alternative (Section
2.10.1). The extensively alterred hydrologic character of the MCC pro-
perty provides suitable sites for conducting a study of this nature.
Functionally more valuable wetlands would likely be created during
reclamation of the property for the wetlands which are not preserved.
During the environmental review process, several measures were
identified which would mitigate or eliminate adverse impacts of the
proposed project. To ensure the fullest environmental benefits are
achieved, the USEPA specifically recommends that:
A program to minimize impacts to the eastern indigo snake (a
threatened species) occurring onsite be implemented as suggested
by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
A program to excavate a National Register-eligible aboriginal
site on the property be conducted in consultation with the State
Historic Preservation Office and Advisory Council.
2.14-2
-------
0 Mining in the vicinity of streams be conducted only along one
side of the stream at a time.
° A setback (established as 250 feet) be defined around preserved
wetlands to protect them from dewatering activities associated
with mining.
0 Preserve from mining activities the major functional wetlands
onsite (Figure 2.10.5). Upon such time as MCC has demonstrated
the creation of equally functional wetlands, MCC may re-open the
case for mining the preserved areas.
0 An experimental 90 acre wetland restoration program be conducted
to demonstrate the ability of creating wetlands in historically
wet areas. The program would be conducted in areas of Section
31, T34S-R24E and Section 32, T34S-R24E.
0 Implement a sand/clay capping technique to minimize above-grade
clay storage areas and restore topography tp as close to
original conditions as possible.
The USEPA tentatively proposes to issue an NPDES permit to MCC for
the Hardee County Phosphate Mine. A draft of the proposed permit is
appended to the DEIS (Appendix A). The project authorized by the per-
mit is that described as the USEPA1s preferred alternative in this do-
cument. This project would incorporate all measures identified as
conditions of the permit (Part III, Conditions).
2.14-3
-------
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REFERENCES
Mississippi Chemical Corporation, 1977. Application for development
approval for development of regional impact. Report prepared by
Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Inc., Gainesville,
Florida.
Sweeney, John W. and Robert N. Hasslacher, 1970. The phosphate
industry in the southeastern United States and its relationship to
world mineral fertilizer demands. Prepared for: U.S. Bureau of
Mines, Washington, D.C. Information circular 8459.
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, 1978. Central Florida phosphate
industry areawide impact assessment program.
, 1979. Draft environmental statement, Estech General
Chemical Corporation, Duette Mine, Manatee County, Florida,
alternatives evaluation resource document, EPA-904/9-79-044K.
White, Jack C., A. J. Fergus, and T. N. Goff, 1975. Phosphoric acid by
direct sulfuric acid digestion of Florida land-pebble matrix.
Prepared for: U.S. Bureau of Mines, Washington, D.C. Report of
investigations 8086.
-------
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3.0 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES
3.1 GEOLOGY/SOILS
3.1.1 Existing Conditions
The Mississippi Chemical Corporation (MCC) property comprises some
14,850 acres in west-central Hardee County in the central Florida
phosphate district. The existing land surface of the MCC property is
quite flat with a gentle, regional slope from north to south. Maximum
elevation on the site is about 110 feet above mean sea level (MSL) to
the northeast and falls to about 75 feet MSL adjacent to stream basins
along the southern boundary (Figure 3.1-1). -Maximum relief from north
to south on the property is about 35 feet. Stream basins are generally
broad, shallow and interspersed with broad, flat marsh areas. A number
of roughly circular, shallow depressions are scattered homogeneously
over the surface of the property. These depressions are up to 0.15
mile across and 5 feet or less in depth.
The Wicomico-Penholoway escarpment, which is one of several ter-
races indicative of sea level stands during the Pleistocene, trends
east-west across the property, roughly bisecting it (Figure 3.1-2).
This escarpment coincides roughly with the boundary between the fairly
well-drained Polk Uplands to the north and the more poorly drained
DeSoto Plains to the south.
3.1.1.1 Stratigraphy
The MCC property is underlain by a thick sequence of Paleozoic,
Mesozoic, and Cenozoic sediments deposited on a Precambrian basement
complex of igneous and metamorphic rock. The Tertiary and Quaternary
Systems of the Cenozoic Era (Figure 3.1-3) contain rocks most important
to the resources of this area. It is within formations of these ages
that the principal ground water resources and phosphate ore beds occur.
The important Cenozoic units are described briefly in the following
paragraphs. More information on these systems and on the older, under-
lying rocks is provided in the Application for Development Approval for
a Development of Regional Impact (ADA/DRI) (MCC, 1977) and in several
3.1-1
-------
Florida geological survey publications (for example, Applin and Applin,
1944; Applin, 1951; Cooke, 1945; Parker and Cooke, 1944; and Puri and
Vernon, 1964).
Holocene deposits in the area consist of sand, muck, or related
swamp deposits and usually overlie the Pleistocene deposits which con-
sist of loose quartz sands with various amounts of leached phosphate
gravel and pale greenish-yellow clay. In the site vicinity, these
deposits range from 5 to 40 feet thick, with an average thickrress of 20
feet. The Pleistocene series lies unconformably over the Bone Valley
Formation and, along with the Holocene deposits, comprises the material
termed "overburden."
The Pliocene Series sediments are represented by the Bone Valley
Formation which consists of interbedded sand, clay, clayey sand, and
gravel with phosphate and limestone nodules. The Bone Valley Formation
is included within the upper part of the ore matrix.
In the site vicinity, the contact between the Bone Valley Forma-,
tion and the Hawthorn Formation is difficult to define. In this
report, the clastic, phosphate-bearing sediments, including the Bone
Valley Formation and the upper clastic deposits of the Hawthorn Forma-
tion, are designated potential matrix (Figure 3.1-3). These deposits
average 40 feet thick in the site vicinity. The Hawthorn Formation, as
depicted in the figure, includes only the lower carbonate sequence;
this unit averages 200 feet in thickness.
The Miocene Series consists of the Hawthorn Formation and the
underlying Tampa Limestone. The Hawthorn Formation has a variable
lithology and typically consists of clay, marl, and sand overlying
sandy to clayey limestone, and dolomite. The clastic upper Hawthorn is
commonly highly phosphatic and, if of suitable phosphate content and
mineability, is included within the lower part of the ore matrix. The
upper limestone stringers of the Hawthorn Formation commonly comprise
"bedrock" in the area. The Tampa Limestone consists of an upper
dolomitic limestone unit and a lower unit of clay with interbedded
3.1-2
-------
limestone and quartz sand. In the site vicinity, the Tampa Limestone
is about 150 feet thick.
The Oligocene Series is represented by the Suwannee Limestone. It
is a granular, fossiliferous limestone with beds of crystalline, partly
silicified, dolomitic limestone. The Suwannee is approximately 240
feet thick.
The Eocene Series is represented by four geologic units, the Ocala
Group and the Avon Park, Lake City, and Oldsmar Limestones. These
units are, for the most part, granular, porous, dolomitic, and fossili-
ferous limestones of variable hardness. The Eocene Series is approxi-
mately 2,500 feet thick in the vicinity of the site.
The Paleocene Series is represented by the Cedar Keys Limestone.
It is about 2,000 feet thick and consists of granular, fossiliferous to
dolomitic limestone.
3.1.1.2 Structure
Regional structural features that have influenced the geology at
the MCC property are the South Florida basin, the Kissimmee Faulted
flexure and the Ocala uplift. The South Florida basin is a downwarp
structure that plunges westward toward the Gulf of Mexico, with its
axis trending east-west. Sediments within the basin are Mesozoic and
Cenozoic in age and have a gentle dip to the southwest. The basin
subsided slowly from Jurassic to Middle Eocene. During this time, the
environment of the basin was essentially that of a shallow to deep
shelf supporting carbonate and evaporitic cyclic deposition. The
Kissimmee Faulted flexure is a local, fault-bounded, tilted, and
rotated block of Eocene or Oligocene age extending down the Florida
peninsula in Orange, Osceola, and Lake Counties.
The regional structural feature that has the most significant
effect on the property is the Ocala uplift, a gentle, local anticlinal
structure. The Ocala uplift centers around outcrops of the Ocala Group
(Upper Eocene) and Avon Park Limestone (Late Middle Eocene) in Citrus,
Dixie, and Levy Counties on the west coast of the peninsula. Where
3.1-3
-------
exposed, the uplift is about 230 miles long and 20 miles wide.
Fracturing and faulting of the Tertiary rocks is associated with the
development of the uplift (Vernon, 1951).
Lineaments in the vicinity of the MCC property were studied to
search for possible evidence of subsidence (P.E. LaMoreaux and Asso-
ciates, 1976). Lineaments were delinated on Landstat imagery, air
photo mosaics and conventional medium-altitude photography. Lineaments
derived from the three types of imagery show strong modes in the N
40°-50° W, N 20°-30° W, N 30°-50° E, and N 60°-80° E orientation.
Regional lineaments in northern Florida show modes in a N 48° W and
N 48° E orientation (Vernon, 1951). Vernon (1951) attributes these
lineaments to fracturing. A moderately good correlation of lineaments
to bedrock lows is found in the MCC property area; however, very little
correlation with topographic features is evidenced.
3.1.1.3 Sinkhole Development
The MCC property is located in an area of Florida where sinkholes
are unlikely to occur due to the thickness of clastic sediment overly-
ing limestone and a high potentiometric surface (Vernon and others,
1972). Additional studies at the MCC property (P.E. LaMoreaux and
Associates, 1976) provide the following evidence that active sinkholes
are unlikely to occur: (1) air photos, taken in 1942 and 1972, were
compared for pond formation and found to be essentially unchanged;
(2) no relationship between surficial depressions and remotely sensed
lineaments was discovered; (3) ground studies of terraine features
showed no indication of sinkholes features; and (4) examination of
infrared aerial photographs showed no indication of active or incipient
sinkhole activity. Evidence indicates that the shallow surface depres-
sions found on the property are the result of solution and slumping of
thin beds of calcareous materials or limestone lenses within the over-
burden and phosphate ore matrix. These depressions are not the result
of large scale karstic development in the bedrock limestones.
3.1-4
-------
3.1.1.4 Mineral Resources
The MCC property is underlain by almost 100 million tons of eco-
nomically recoverable phosphate rock in areas deemed mineable with
present technology. The matrix or phosphate ore occurs in the Bone
Valley and upper Hawthorn deposits. In comparison with typical
deposits in Polk and Hillsborough Counties, the matrix at the MCC site
has an unusual thickness, low overburden ratio, small amount of pebble
product, and a lower phosphate rock to sand/clay ratio.
Overburden, composed of loose sand and clay stringers, averages
about 20 feet thick. Average matrix thickness is about 40 feet; matrix
is composed of approximately 18 percent phosphate rock, 27 percent
clay, and 54 percent sand. The MCC site is underlain by approximately
9,000 acres of presently economically recoverable phosphate ore.
3.1.1.5 Soils
Soils data presented in this report are based on the Interim Soil
Survey Report for Hardee County published by the USDA Soil Conservation
Service (SCS) in 1979. The Interim Survey provides a detailed, redefi-
nition of soil series present at the MCC site. It should be noted
that, while the overall characterization of site soils and lithologies
as presented in the ADA/DRI (MCC, 1977) and on Figure 3.1-4 has not
substantially changed, mapping unit names and locations have been
modified. An updated soils map of the area incorporating the soil
series presented in Table 3.1-1 is currently in preparation by the
SCS.
Based on the revised soils classification system, 29 soils series
have been recognized and mapped by the SCS on the MCC property. Table
3.1-1 presents pertinent data on these soils (USDA, 1979). Lithologi-
cally, the site soils are predominantly fine acid sands with low nat- .
ural fertility. There are five muck to mucky series found on site that
have somewhat higher natural fertility, but they generally underlie
swampland and are not amenable to agricultural development. Hydrologi-
cally, the soils are predominantly poorly drained, have high
3.1-5
-------
permeabilities (particularly in the top horizon), and moderate to high
runoff potential. As seen in Table 3.1-1, the erosion potential at the
site is quite low. This is due to low relief and extensive existing
ground cover.
General agricultural capability (with a high level of management)
is presented for the site soils in Table 3.1-1. An explanation of the
capability classes is presented in Table 3.1-2 (USDA, 1979). Site
soils fall into Classes 3 through 7 and have severe to very severe
limitations for agricultural development. Currently, the predominant
agricultural land use at the site is pasture and improved pasture.
Engineering characteristics of the site soils are determined
primarily by soil drainage and flooding potential. Strength and
settlement properties of the sandy soils are acceptable; however, the
mucks and mucky soils present foundation restrictions for structures.
In general, moderate to severe restrictions are indicated for sanitary
facilities and building site development on site soils that are poorly
drained in the natural state. These restrictions are derived from the
soil wetness, ponding, seepage, and slow percolation.
3.1.2 Environmental Impacts
Impacts are described in this section for the proposed actions and
for alternatives which may affect impacts on geology, soils structure,
and topography.
3.1.2.1 MCC's Proposed Action
Site mining by dragline would involve long-term disturbance of
approximately 9,000 acres of the site's upper geological formations.
These units would be mined to depths of 50 to 100 feet. The phosphate
would be extracted, and the remaining material would be returned to the
site, in a restructured manner, for reclamation purposes. No unique
geological features underlie this site, and no significant impacts
would occur.
3.1-6
-------
Modification of the existing site topography would occur as a
result of both mining and reclamation activities (Figure 2.9-1).
Initially, a br-oad plateau about 60 feet above-grade and covering 2,527
acres would be formed by four clay storage areas, designated as "M,"
east of the railroad (Figure 2.8-1). Settling in Areas MC-1, MC-3, and
MC-6 is expected to bring these areas to a final elevation of about 40
to 45 feet above-grade. Area MC-4 would be returned to an at-grade
level by transporting stored clay to storage areas south of SR64. To
the west of the railroad, Areas MC-5 and MC-7 (1,447 acres) would
initially be 60 feet above grade, but they are expected to settle to a
final elevation of 25 feet above grade; Area MC-2 (520 acres) would be
returned to an at-grade level in the same manner as Area MC-4.
All areas designated as "DA" (3,200 acres) would initially have
elevations of about 40 feet. These areas are expected to settle to
existing grade. Areas designated as "A," "B," "1," and "2" (2,346
acres) would all be at-grade.
Approximately 400 acres of lakes would be created by mining and
would ultimately blend with the general reclamation scheme.
Modification of the MCC site topography would be long-term in
nature but would not result in any significant impacts to land usage.
Potential impacts on surface water and wetlands are discussed in
Sections 3.2.1 and 3.3.2.
Soils at the MCC site would sustain impacts derived from mining,
plant site location, matrix transport, and reclamation. Impacts to
natural soils from mining and reclamation would be their removal or
permanent covering in those areas where mining, waste clay storage, and
tailings disposal takes place, as well as areas left as lakes. Ap-
proximately 10,720 acres of soil would be subjected to long-term
impacts.
The plant site would impact 160 acres of soil during the life of
the mining operation. These impacts would include minor removal of
soil for some foundations and preemptive land use.
3.1-7
-------
The matrix slurry pipeline would have minor short-term pre-emptive
use impacts on site soils.
3.1.2.2 Alternatives
Alternatives described in Section 2.0 which may have substantially
different impacts on geology, soils, or topographic features from the
proposed action are considered in this section. Choice of alternative
mining methods, plant site locations, matrix transport methods, water
sources, effluent disposal methods, and rock drying systems would have
no significant difference in impact from proposed methods.
Ore Processing
Dry separation or direct acidulation of phosphate ores would
result in less water retention in the waste clays and, therefore, much
smaller volumes of waste clay for disposal. Above-ground waste clay
storage areas might be eliminated, or at least significantly reduced.
However, the addition of gypsum waste from the direct acidulation
method would result in an increase in total waste volume at the mine
site. In addition, with the acidulation process, hydration water con-
tained in the gypsum would be of equivalent volume as the water re-
tained in the waste clays with the proposed wet beneficiation process.
Waste Disposal/Reclamation Methods
The conventional method of waste disposal (separation of clays and
sand tailings) and land reclamation (land and lakes) would alter the
existing topography and soils structures to a greater extent than the
proposed action. Approximately 11,325 acres of land would be subject
to long-term renewal and/or coverage of natural soils. Approximately
7,500 acres of elevated lands (to 60 feet above natural grade) and
3,000 acres of lakes would be created. Soils would vary from clay caps
on the elevated lands to sand tailings on approximately 1,000 acres of
the site.
3.1-8
-------
Sand-clay mixing (in the approximate ratio of 2 to 1) could
theoretically be utilized to increase the consolidation rate of waste
clays. Such a method would reduce, the area and/or height of above
ground waste storage areas and improve the fertility of reclaimed
lands. However, as stated in Sections 2.8 and 2.9, there is not a
sufficient volume of sand on the MCC property to implement this
alternative.
Preservation of Wetlands
Several alternatives were presented in Section 2.10 for preserva-
tion of existing wetlands on the MCC site. Implementation of either
the USEPA areawide wetlands preservation alternatives or the wetlands
system preservation plan would exclude more than 1,000 acres from
mining or waste disposal. The other two preservation plans would
exclude less than 500 acres. Soils and topography would be unchanged
within these wetlands.
No Action or Postponement of Action
If an NPDES permit were not issued to MCC, lands would remain
basically in their present state. Somewhat more use of these lands for
cattle grazing would likely occur in the foreseeable future.
3.1.3 Mitigative Measures
The proposed action incorporates economically feasible measures to
mitigate effects on soils and topography by incorporating sand-clay
caps and maximum restoration to natural grade. The proposed plan would
recreate soils which are approximately as suitable as existing soils
for agricultural use.
An additional mitigative measure would involve mixing all of the
sand tailings with the sand/clay caps to raise the sand-clay ratio and
achieve improved agricultural potential. This would involve sub-
stantial double handling of the -tailings and significant additional
cost to MCC.
3.1-9
-------
TABLE 3.1-1
SOIL CHARACTERISTICS OF THE MCC SITE
Page 1 of 3
Soil Series3
2. Zolfo fine sand
5. Tavares fine sand,
0 to 5 percent slopes
6. Candler fine sand,
0 to 5 percent slopes
7. Basinger fine sand
8. Bradenton fine sand,
frequently flooded
9. Del ray mucky fine sand,
depressional
10. Pomona fine sand
11. Felda fine sand
12. Felda fine sand,
frequently flooded
13. Floridana mucky fine sand,
depressional
15. Immokalee fine sand
16. Myakka fine sand
Permeability
(in/hr)
>20
>20
6.0-20
>20
6.0-20
6.0-20
6.0-20
6.0-20
6.0-20
6.0-20
6.0-20
6.0-20
pH
3.6-7.3
4.5-6.0
4.5-6.0
3.6-8.4
5.6-8.4
5.6-7.8
3.6-5.5
5.1-8.4
4.5-8.4
5.6-8.4
4.6-6.0
3.6-6.5
Eros
Kb
0.10
0.17
0.10
0.10
0.20
0.17
0.20
0.17
0.17
0.17
0.15
0.20
ion
TC
5
5
5
5
5
5
5
4
4
5
5
5
Flooding0'
N
N
N
N
F
N
N
C
C
N
N
N
Capabil itye
3w
3s
4s
4w
5w
7w
4w
5w
5w
7w
4w
4w
Drained
Char act.
P
MW
E
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
-------
TABLE 3.1-1 (Continued) Page 2 of 3
Permeability Erosion Drained
Soil Series9 (in./hr.) pH Kb Tc Floodingd Capability6 Charact.1"
17. Smyrna fine sand 6.0-20 3.6-7.3 0.20 5 N 4w P
18. Cassia fine sand 6.0-20 4.5-6.0 0.15 5 N 6s P
19. Ona loamy fine sand 6.0-20 3.6-6.0 0.20 5 N 3w P
20. Samsulamuck 6.0-20 3.6-5.5 N 4w P
21. Placid fine sand,
depressional 6.0-20 3.6-6.5 0.17 5 N 7w VP
22. Pomello fine sand >20 4.5-6.0 0.17 5 N 6s MW
23. Sparr fine sand
0 to 2 percent slopes 6.0-20 4.5-6.5 0.20 5 N 3s P
24. Jonathan fine sand
0 to 2 percent slopes 6.0-20 3.6-6.0 0.17 5 N 6s MW
27. Bradenton-Bluff-Felda
association, frequently
fleoded - - - - C - P-VP
31. Pompano fine sand,
frequently flooded >20 4.5-7.8 0.15 5 F 6w -
32. Felda fine sand,
depressional 6.0-20 5.1-8.4 0.17 5 ' N 7w P
33. Manatee, mucky fine sand,
depressional 2.0-6.0 5.6-8.4 0.20 5 N 7w P
34. Wauchula fine sand 6.0-20 3.6-5.5 0.20 5 N 3w P
35. Oldsmar fine sand 6.0-20 3.6-8.4 0.20 5 N 4w P
-------
TABLE 3.1-1 (Continued) page 3 Of 3
Permeability Erosion Drained
Soil Series3 (In/hr) pH J> ~[C Floodingd Capability*? Charact.f
36. Tomoka muck 6.0-20 3.6-4.4 - - N 3w P
37. Bassinger fine sand,
depressional >20 3.6-8.4 0.10 5 N 4w P
39. Bradenton fine sand 6.0-20 5.6-8.4 0.20 5 N 3w P
a Soil series are numbered to correspond with SCS soil survey mapping units (USDA, 1979)
b Soil credibility factor.
c Soil loss tolerance.
d N = Never
C = Common
F = Frequent
e Agricultural class definitions are provided in Table 3.1-2.
f VP = Very Poorly Drained
P = Poorly Drained
MW = Medium Well Drained
E = Excessively Drained
Source: USDA, 1979.
-------
TABLE 3.1-2
AGRICULTURAL CAPABILITY CLASSES
Class 1 - soils have few limitations that restrict their use.
Class 2 - soils have moderate limitations that reduce the choice of
plants or that require moderate conservation practices.
Class 3 - soils have severe limitations that reduce the choice of
plants, require special conservation practices, or both.
Class 4 - soils have very severe limitations that reduce the choice of
plants, require very careful management, or both.
Class 5 - soils are not likely to erode but have other limitations,
impractical to remove, that limit their use largely to
pasture, range, woodland, or wildlife.
Class 6 - soils have severe limitations that make them generally
unsuited to cultivation and limit their use largely to
pasture, range, woodland, or wildlife.
Class 7 - soils have very severe limitations that make them unsuited
to cultivation and restrict their use largely to pasture,
range, woodland, or wildlife.
Class 8 - soils and landforms have limitations that preclude their use
for commercial plants and restrict their use to recreation,
wildlife, water supply, or to aesthetic purposes.
Capability subclasses are designated by adding a small letter, e^ vv, or
s^ to the class numeral, for example 2e. The letter e shows that the
main limitation is risk of erosion unless close-growtTf plant cover is
maintained; jrf shows that water in or on the soil surface interferes
with plant growth or cultivation (in some soils the wetness can be
partly corrected by artificial drainge); ^ shows that the soil is
limited mainly because it is shallow, droughty, or stony.
Source: USDA, 1979.
-------
LEGEND
: FKHH HM*H
•' CRIIK
-0 CONTOWI ILIVATIOm
Source: MCC, 1977
Figure 3.1-1. Existing MCC Site Topography.
-------
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SOURCE: MCC. 1977.
Figure 3.1-3. Generalized Hydrogeologic Section
-------
5b Nearly level, slightly to moderately wet. deep, acid, sandy soils
with hi^h organic content. Scrdnton, f.s.
Sd Level to steep, nearly white, deep, draughty sands. St. Lucie, f.s.
Se Nearly level, moderately wet, neutral sandy soils, moderately
deep tp calcareous clayey subsoils or marl. Sunniland, f.s. '
Source: MCC, 1977.
Figure 3.1-4. Soils on the MCC Site.
-------
REFERENCES
Applin, P.L., 1951. Preliminary report on the buried pre-Mesozoic
rocks in Florida and adjacent states. American Association of
Petroleum Geologists, Vol. 23, p. 1713-1714.
Applin, P.L. and Applin, E.R., 1944. Regional subsurface stratigraphy
and structure of Florida and southern Georgia. American Associa-
tion of Petroleum Geologists Bulletin, 1673-1753.
Cooke, C.W., 1945. Geology of Florida. Florida Geological Survey,
Bulletin 29.
LaMoreaux, P.E. and Associates, 1976. Possible relationship of line-
aments and shallow subsurface geology to subsidence potential.
Report prepared for Mississippi Chemical Corporation.
Mississippi Chemical Corporation, 1977. Development of regional im-
pact, application for development approval, Hardee County phos-
phate mining. Report submitted to Florida Department of
Environmental Regulation. Prepared by Environmental Science and
Engineering, Inc.
Parker, G.G., and Cooke, C.W., 1944. Late Cenozoic geology of southern
Florida. Florida Geologial Survey, Bulletin 27.
Puri, H.S., and Vernon, R.O., 1964. Major structural features of
Florida D.N.R., B.O.G. Special Publication No. 5
Vernon, R.O., 1951. Geology of Citrus and Levy Counties, Florida.
Florida Geological Survey, Bulletin 33.
Vernon and others, 1972. Sinkholes. In: Environmental geology and
hydrology, Tallahassee area, Florida. Florida Bureau of Geology,
Spec. Pub. 16, p. 19.
U.S. Department of Agriculture, 1979. Interim soil survey, maps and
interpretations, Hardee County, Florida. USDA Soil Conservation
Service and Hardee County.
-------
3.2 WATER RESOURCES
3.2.1 Surface Water
3.2.1.1 Existing Conditions
Hydrologic Description
The MCC site is located in the west-central portion of the Peace
River Basin, as shown on Figure 3.2-1. The Peace River originates in
central Polk County and flows generally south-southwest for a distance
of 105 miles to its mouth at Charlotte Harbor and the Gulf of Mexico.
The average slope of the river is approximately 1 foot per mile. The
Peace River has a drainage area of approximately 2,400 square miles at
its mouth, and an outflow equivalent to an average runoff of about 9
inches per year over the entire basin. However, surface runoff is less
than this amount since the river receives discharge from the Floridan
aquifer along most of its length (Environmental Science and En-
gineering, Inc., 1977).
Horse Creek, a major tributary to the Peace River in the site
vicinity (Figure 3.2-2), drains an area of 245 square miles within the
western portion of the Peace River Basin. The creek flows generally
south for a distance of more than 25 miles at an average slope of ap-
proximately 5 feet per mile, and joins the Peace River just upstream of
Charlotte Harbor (Environmental Science and Engineering, Inc., 1977).
In addition to Horse Creek, five small, intermittent streams
receive drainage from the mine site. Brushy, Oak, and Hickory Creeks
traverse the property, while Lettis, Troublesome, and Horse Creeks
receive drainage from peripheral areas of the site. Lettis Creek is a
tributary to Brushy Creek which, in turn, is a tributary to Horse
Creek. Oak, Hickory, Horse, and Troublesome Creeks are all tributaries
to the Peace River. A summary of MCC site acreage which drains into
each of these streams is provided in Table 3.2-1. Brushy and Oak
Creeks receive drainage from over 85 percent of the site and are there-
fore the primary streams which could potentially be impacted by mine
development. The baseline characteristics of Brushy and Oak Creeks
3.2-1
-------
will be described in this section. The characteristics of the other
streams which receive mine site drainage may be found in the ADA/DRI
(MCC, 1977).
Streamflow
The nearest location for which long-term streamflow data represen-
tative of the flow characteristics in the project area are available is
on Horse Creek near Arcadia. The USGS has maintained a stream gaging
station at this location since April 1950. The station is approxi-
mately 20 miles south of the mine site and has a contributing drainage
area of 218 square miles. An average flow of 198 cubic feet/second
(cfs) has been recorded at the station over the 28-year published
period of record. The highest streamflows at the Arcadia gaging sta-
tion have been reported during the late summer and early autumn months
from July through October when average flows have been more than 300
cfs. The lowest streamflows have occurred during the months of Novem-
ber through May, when average flows were generally less than 100 cfs.
Flow in the small streams which receive drainage from the mine
site is highly variable. During rainy periods, flows in the streams
increase significantly due to upstream runoff, but the flows later
decrease to a level maintained predominantly by water derived from the
water table aquifer. During prolonged dry periods, all of the smaller
streams, except Horse Creek, become intermittent.
Average Flows - Average flows for streams in the project area were
derived from a transfer of daily flows from the USGS gaging station on
Horse Creek near Arcadia. The transfer of daily flows was made on a
basis of unit discharge, or discharge per square mile. Due to the
transfer of flows from a large basin to smaller basins, unit discharges
were increased for high flows and decreased for low flows. The average
flows for Brushy and Oak Creeks were determined to be 30 cfs and 11
cfs, respectively, at the points where these streams leave the mine
site property.
3.2-2
-------
Low Flows - Low flow characteristics of streams in the project
area were estimated from the results of a low frequency and duration
analysis of streamflow data for the US6S gaging station on Horse Creek
near Arcadia. Several times during the spring of 1976, there was no
flow in the site streams, although Horse Creek near Arcadia had a flow
greater than its computed 10-year, 7-day low flow. Therefore, the
2-year, 7-day and the 10-year, 7-day low flows of all streams on the
property are essentially zero (MCC, 1977).
Flood Flows - Flood flows for streams in the project area were
derived from the results of a flood frequency analysis of streamflow
data for the USGS gaging station on Horse Creek near Arcadia. Flood
frequency discharges at the Horse Creek gaging station were transferred
to streams in the project area by the following relationship:
Qn • c/-7
-------
the discharge coefficients. The results of the analysis indicate
100-year flood discharges for Brushy and Oak Creeks to be 3,720 cfs and
2,290 cfs, respectively, at the points where these streams leave the
MCC property. Discharges for other return floods are presented in the
ADA/DRI (MCC, 1977).
Flood profiles were computed for streams which cross the mine site
property using the US6S Step Backwater Program No. E431. Program input
consisted of the flood discharges and surveyed stream cross sections.
The resulting flood profiles were then transposed to a contour map to
delineate the floodplain boundaries for the various return period
floods. Boundaries of the 2-, 25-, and 100-year floods, for all
streams which have a mean annual flow greater than 5 cfs are presented
on Figure 3.2-3.
Water Quality
The water quality characteristics of the Peace River and Horse
Creek Basins are summarized in Table 3.2-2. Data for the Peace River
were compiled from two USGS water quality monitoring stations, located
at Arcadia and Zolfo Springs (Figure 3.2-1). The Horse Creek water
quality data were collected over a 7-year period by the Florida Depart-
ment of Environmental Regulation (DER). Most of the parameters re-
ported in Table 3.2-2 exhibit a relatively wide range of variability.
The Peace River has a significantly higher specific conductance and
fluoride concentration than does Horse Creek. Total phosphate and
orthophosphate concentrations are also much higher on the Peace River,
reflecting the effects of chemical plant effluent and past mining of
phosphate pebble deposits. Horse Creek is more highly colored and has
a higher alkalinity than does the Peace River. Horse Creek also has a
slightly lower average dissolved oxygen concentration, but greater
range of variability, than does the Peace River (Environmental Science
and Engineering, Inc., 1977).
The water quality characteristics of the streams which receive
site drainage were determined during a one-year monitoring program
3.2-4
-------
conducted monthly from December 1975 through November 1976. The re-
sults of the water quality monitoring program for Brushy and Oak
Creeks, summarized in Table 3.2-3, indicate that these streams are more
acidic and have lower dissolved oxygen concentrations than is charac-
teristic of the Peace River and Horse Creek Basins (Table 3.2-2). The
streams also have lower levels of specific conductance and alkalinity
and much lower sulfate concentrations. Fluoride, phosphate, and ortho-
phosphate concentrations in Brushy and Oak Creeks are similar to those
in the Horse Creek Basin. The waters of the site streams are much more
highly colored than is characteristic of the Peace River or Horse Creek
Basins (Environmental Science and Engineering, Inc., 1977).
3.2.1.2 Environmental Impacts
MCC's Proposed Action
Reduction of Streamflow - During mining, certain parcels of land
would be periodically removed from the natural drainage system. Flow
would be reduced in streams tributary to such areas during these
periods, since the areas would be isolated from the streams' drainage
basins and would not contribute runoff to their flow. During the ac-
tive mining phase, rain falling into the open pits would not contribute
to streamflow. Similarly, areas used for clay storage and tailings
disposal would not contribute to streamflow during their use.
Flow reductions were computed based upon the maximum and average
accumulated areas occluded from streamflow during the period of mining.
Only reductions of the long-term average flows of streams were evalu-
ated because the actual flows and the actual reductions thereof would
be dependent upon factors such as annual variations in rainfall and the
actual size of the disturbed areas. Brushy Creek would have a 6 per-
cent average (and 13 percent maximum) reduction of flow where it exits
the MCC site. Similarly, Oak Creek would have a 13 percent average
(and 29 percent maximum) reduction of flow where it exits the site
property.
3.2-5
-------
Diversion of Streamflow - In order to reduce the use of ground
water, surface water would be diverted from Brushy Creek to provide
part of the make-up water needed for mining operations (Section 2.5).
Surface water would be diverted to an offstream storage basin, which
would be in operation by the fourth year of mining, located to the east
of Brushy Creek and north of State Road 64 (Figure 2.8-1). The basin
would cover approximately 200 acres and have a storage capacity of ap-
proximately 9,500 acre-feet.
The diversion of streamflow into the storage basin would be con-
trolled by a pair of weirs. A fixed main channel weir would be con-
structed across Brushy Creek, just downstream of the diversion channel
for the storage basin. A fixed side channel weir would be constructed
across the diversion channel, the lowest bay of which would be 0.25-
foot higher than the lowest bay of the main channel weir. With such an
arrangement, diversion would not occur when the flow in Brushy Creek is
less than 3.25 cfs. When the streamflow exceeds this level, a portion
of the Brushy Creek streamflow would be diverted into the storage
basin.
A simulation analysis was performed to quantitatively determine
the probable average amount of surface water which could be supplied by
the storage basin during the project lifetime. Daily discharges for
Brushy Creek were computed over a 25-year period, based upon flow data
available at Horse Creek near Arcadia and the transfer relationship
used to derive average flows (Section 3.2.1.1). The simulated flows
were adjusted to reflect reductions of streamflow resulting from mining
operations in the basin. The results of the analysis indicate that the
storage basin would provide an average of 8.49 cfs over the 25-year
period of simulation, representing a 28 percent reduction of the
natural average flow of Brushy Creek at the point where it exits the
mine site property (MCC, 1977). The SWFWMD Consumptive Use Permit (Ap-
pendix D) allows withdrawal of 5,086,000 gpd (7.87 cfs) from the Brushy
Creek Basin on an annual average basis, though specific minimum flows
must be allowed during each month of the year (SWFWMD, 1977).
3.2-6
-------
Effluent Discharge - Discharges to Oak Creek could occur at cer-
tain times of the year as a result of overflow from the clear water
pond. Rain falling onto active clay settling areas, open mine pits,
the clear water pond, and plant site runoff would all contribute to the
overflow. As shown on Figure 2.5-1, the annual average discharge from
the clear water pond is estimated at 2.31 MGD (3.57 cfs). As discussed
in Section 3.2.1.3, measures are to be taken to reduce or eliminate
pond overflow. The most likely time for effluent discharge is during
the wet season from June through September.
The expected chemical composition of the clear water pond overflow
is presented in Table 3.2-4. In addition to these parameters, the
effluent may contain extremely diluted amounts of amines, kerosenes,
and other reagents used in the physical separation and concentration of
phosphates.
All discharges to Oak Creek from the clear water pond would be
subject to the effluent limitation standards of performance for new
sources. The applicable USEPA effluent limitations as well as the
standards imposed by the Florida DER are listed in Table 3.2-5. Com-
parison with the data presented in Table 3.2-4 indicates that the ex-
pected discharge would be within the effluent limitations for all
parameters listed.
Computations were made for two conditions: (1) average effluent
discharge conditions and (2) reasonable worst case conditions. For
analysis purposes, it was assumed that all discharges occurred during
the most likely, "wet" season, extending from June through September.
Therefore, the average effluent quantity was considered to be three
times the annual average, or 6.93 MGD (10.71 cfs). Ambient flow con-
ditions in Oak Creek during this period were assumed to be the monthly
average discharge, corrected for reduction due to mining activities, as
given in MCC (1977): June - 7.9 cfs; July - 15.9 cfs; August -
20.4 cfs; September - 24.7 cfs,
3.2-7
-------
Maximum effluent flow rate was assumed to be 20 MGD, as specified
by MCC in its NPDES permit application. Water quality parameters for
the effluent discharge and for Oak Creek, prior to effluent mixing, are
given in Tables 3.2-4 and 3.2-3, respectively. With the exception of
temperature, pH, and specific conductance, average ambient and effluent
concentrations were used to compute the fully-mixed concentrations in
Oak Creek resulting from effluent discharge. The rationale followed in
establishing these assumptions for the analyses of reasonable worst
case conditions is as follows. For the effluent stream, the discharge
rate of 20 MGD would occur only under conditions of heavy rainfall, so
that dilution of chemical constituents would be expected. (Maximum
effluent concentrations would be most likely under low discharge con-
ditions.) MCC would make every effort to lower the pond level prior to
predicted heavy rains so that the period of discharge at 20 MGD would
not extend very long after rainfall ceases. Stream flow rates would
also be elevated during this period, and it is expected that the 20 MGD
effluent discharge rate would be reduced toward average conditions by
the time the Oak Creek stream flow returns to normal.
The results of the analysis and a comparison of estimated fully
mixed water quality conditions with Florida's General and Class III
water quality standards are presented in Table 3.2-6. Results are
given for both average and maximum effluent discharge rates for the
months of June through September. As may be seen, the effluent
discharge would have little effect on the temperature or pH of Oak
Creek. Levels of pH below the minimum of 6.0 established by the
standards could occur, but would be a result of the low ambient pH of
Oak Creek rather than effluent quality. An increase in specific con-
ductance greater than the allowable 100 percent above ambient could
occur, especially if maximum effluent discharge levels were to coincide
with minimum ambient levels. The maximum level of 500 umhos/cm is also
likely to be exceeded. Effluent discharge could also result in a con-
centration of oil and grease two to three times greater than the maxi-
mum allowable 5.0 mg/1. The expected average concentration changes in
3.2-8
-------
Oak Creek for the other parameters present in the effluent are shown in
Table 3.2-6. For parameters present in the effluent but for which no
ambient water quality data exists, the mixed concentrations represent
the maximum increase over ambient which could occur as a result of
effluent discharge.
Local Water Quality Degradation - Sediment from parcels of land
cleared of vegetation could result in local water quality degradation.
Sediment includes solids and organic material detached from the ground
surface by erosion and carried into the drainage system by runoff. The
introduction of sediment into the streams which receive mine site
drainage would result in an increase in turbidity and solids deposi-
tion. Sediment may also contain residues of other harmful pollutants
such as petrochemicals which would further degrade water quality.
A potential source of local water quality degradation would be the
accidental spillage of waste clays. Of particular concern would be the
rupture of a clay slurry pipeline at a location near a stream, which
could result in a large temporary increase in stream turbidity and have
other adverse chemical and biological effects.
Hypothetical Clay Settling Area Embankment Failure - Waste clays
generated by the phosphate beneficiation process would be hydraulically
disposed of in clay settling areas, formed by earthen embankments with
a height of 35 to 60 feet. Such areas would provide containment for
the clay slurry and would return clarified decant water to the plant
recirculating water system. During the project lifetime, approximately
7,700 acres would be required for clay settling areas (MCC, 1977).
An estimate of the probability of an embankment failure was made
based on the average annual risk of a modern dam failure (approximately
0.01 percent), adjusted for hydrological and structural conditions uni-
que to the project area. The most common causes of conventional dam
failures are, in order of decreasing probability: overtopping during
large floods; subsurface erosion and piping; earthslides; and earth-
quakes. These factors are less likely to cause failure with the clay
3.2-9
-------
settling area embankments than with a conventional dam for the follow-
ing reasons: accurately predictable peak water levels; favorable soil
and seismic conditions; uniform embankment and foundation sections; and
rigorous design and inspection requirements imposed by the Florida DER.
If the above factors cumulatively reduce the risk of embankment failure
to approximately one-tenth of that for a modern dam, the average annual
risk of a clay settling area embankment failure would be 0.001 percent,
or one chance in 100,000 per year (USEPA, 1979).
In spite of the extremely low probability of occurrence, calcula-
tions have been made to estimate the area that would be affected by a
rupture of a clay settling area embankment and the associated spill of
contents onto the surrounding terrain. The settling area selected for
consideration, designated MC-6 and having an area of 1,036 acres, is
the largest such area proposed for the mine site.
For purposes of analysis, a 200-foot wide break was assumed to
occur in the MC-6 dam at the point of intersection with the existing
Hickory Creek channel. Although the dikes around Area MC-4 would serve
as a barrier to the flow of material originating from a dam break at
MC-6, this effect was not considered so that a worst-case scenario
could be analyzed. Two cases were considered: 1) a "dilute case," in
which the waste clays are in the most fluid state (assumed to be the
consistency of water for the purposes of this analysis) and consequent-
ly would attain maximum spreading; and 2) a "thick case," in which the
clays have low fluidity and would spread across a minimum area. The
HEC-1 hydrologic computer program was used to evaluate the flow of
dilute waste clay slurry and a single geometric solution was applied to
define the area that would be covered by thick, viscous wastes. The
results indicate that an area of between 4.5 ("thick case") and 6.0
("dilute case") square miles in the Hickory Creek and Oak Creek basins
would be affected (Figure 3.2-4). It is significant to note that the
clay waste would be confined to the Hickory and Oak Creek basins and
would not affect Troublesome Creek on the east. The affected area
would cover large portions of Ona. For a "dilute case" dam break, some
3.2-10
-------
fluid would reach Ona within about 45 minutes of the initial dam
breach; within about 1.5 hours of the initial breach,- the fluid would
reach its peak flood stage and would cover parts of Ona to an elevation
of 92 feet MSL. This represents a depth of about 2 to 2.5 feet. The
flood would subside, and the material would flow downstream from Ona
within 2 to 3 hours of the initial dam break. For the "thick case,"
the peak stage at Ona would occur later and would reach a lower eleva-
tion.
The above-described dam failure analysis was selected to represent
worst case impact potential: the largest and highest clay storage area
was selected; a worst case dam break was assumed, with failure occur-
ring at the base of the dam (for the "dilute case") and in close proxi-
mity to a water course. No account was made of either onsi-te storage
resulting from filling of mine cuts or of internal diking within MC-6
which would limit the volume of clay released in an external dam
failure.
Although it is not possible to quantify the effects that would
occur in the Peace River and, eventually, in Charlotte Harbor as por-
tions of the clay wastes were carried downstream after dam failure,
qualitative impacts can be estimated from those reported for the
December, 1971 Cities Service Company incident (Florida Game and Fresh
Water Fish Commission, 1973).
In the Cities Service Company incident, an estimated 1 billion
gallons of phosphatic clays were released into Whidden Creek and then
to the Peace River. Turbidities in Whidden Creek reached a maximum of
26,000 Jackson Turbidity Units (JTU) on the day of the incident (with
7.0 JTU as the background turbidity); the turbidity in the Peace River
reached a maximum of 12,000 JTU at Bowling Green (background = 7.5 JTU)
the day after the incident and 16,000 JTU (background = 5.8 JTU) three
days after the incident at Ft. Ogden. Within three days of the inci-
dent, turbidities dropped to 66 JTU in the Peace River at Bowling
Green; six days after the spill, all affected waters downstream to
Arcadia had returned to within 50 JTU above background turbidity
3.2-11
-------
levels. However, excessive turbidities were observed in the intertidal
section of the river until the occurrence of Hurricane Agnes in June
1972 (Florida Game and Fresh Water Fish Commission, 1973).
A survey of SWFWMD permits indicates that there are no permitted
surface water users (all drinking water withdrawals must be permitted
by SWFWMD) for Hickory and Oak Creeks (Ames, 1981). Only one permit
for public water supply withdrawal has been issued for the Peace River
between its confluence with Hickory Creek and Charlotte Harbor.
General Development Utilities, Inc., (GDU) withdraws water from the
Peace River in Hardee County in T39S, R23E, Section 15 (Ames, 1981).
GDU has a full-reservoir storage capacity to provide sufficient water
for five to six months (Wirth, 1981). Therefore, GDU would normally
have enough water in storage to allow a disruption of water withdrawals
from the Peace River for several months, and a dam break on the MCC
property would, therefore, have a minimal effect on GDU's drinking
water supply during much of the year. However, during the dry season
(October through April), GDU can withdraw only relatively small amounts
of water from the Peace River so that its water storage volume becomes
depleted. If a dam break occurred on the MCC property during the
latter part of the dry season or early part of the wet season, GDU
could experience some water supply difficulties due to a combination of
low reservoir storage and poor water quality in the Peace River.
The effect of an MCC dam break on the aquatic biota would probably
be similar to the effects described for the Cities Service incident
•(Florida Game and Fresh Water Fish Commission, 1973). Fish and benthic
organisms in the areas receiving the heaviest slime loads would be
lost. The direct effects, primarily from clays covering benthic
organisms or coating the gills of fish, would last for many months.
Many fish would migrate further downstream, resulting in increased com-
petitive pressure on downstream communities. The loss of macrophytes
in the immediate vicinity would be restricted to areas with the highest
waste concentrations. However, increased turbidity would result in
decreased phytoplankton productivity and would also interfere with
respiration and feeding of filter feeders for many miles downstream.
3.2-12
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In areas with highest slime blanketing, there would be disruption
of wetland functions and displacement of wildlife. However, through
several periods of normal rainfall, these areas should recover to near
normal function and habitat value.
Alternatives
The alternatives which are described in Section 2.0 that may have
significantly different impacts on the surface water hydrology than the
proposed action are discussed in this section. Impacts to the surface
water hydrology resulting from plant site location and product trans-
port would be similar for each alternative.
Mining - The BWE mining method would have a similar impact on the
surface water hydrology as the proposed action, but the dredge method
would result in higher water consumption. Increased water usage would
result from: 1) greater water entrainment in clays due to the wet
operating conditions necessary for the dredge, and 2) evaporation from
.the dredge pond.
Matrix Transport - Matrix transport by conveyor belt or truck
would require less water usage at the point of active mining than would
slurry pipeline transport. However, it would be necessary to add water
at the beneficiation plant to permit processing by the wet process.
Ore Processing - Less water would be entrained in the waste clays
if the dry separation or direct acidulation methods of beneficiation
were employed instead of the wet process method. However, some water
of hydration would be contained in the waste gypsum generated by the
direct acidulation method; this would create approximately equivalent
retention of water in waste clays under this process. In addition, the
extensive utilization of sulfuric acid in the direct acidulation method
could result in an increased potential for water quality pollution.
Water Sources - Usage of surface water or ground water as the sole
water source would result in significant impacts to other water users
in the site area. There is not sufficient surface water to supply MCC
needs. If maximum amounts of surface water were used, streamflow would
3.2-13
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not be sufficient to supply the needs of downstream users. If ground
water were the sole source of project water needs, aquifer withdrawals
would increase 41 percent, causing more noticeable drawdown effects on
other users. During the first three years of the project, total water
usage would come from ground water supplies.
Liquid Effluent Disposal - The alternative effluent discharge plan
would produce water quality impacts on Hickory Creek rather than Oak
Creek, where the proposed discharge location would be situated. Under
the alternative plan, one of the discharge points would be located at
the site boundary; discharge at this location would eliminate the
benefits which would result from natural stream purification if the
discharge point were farther from the property boundary, as it is under
the proposed action.
Rock Drying - If rock drying operations were eliminated and wet
rock were processed at MCC's Pascagoula chemical plant instead of at
the mine site, as -proposed, expansion of dock facilities would be
necessary on Bayou Casotte. This could result in a temporary,
localized impact on the water quality in the bayou.
Waste Disposal and Reclamation - If the conventional waste
disposal plan were implemented, water usage would be increased due to
the longer period of time which would be required for waste clays to
compact and release water. In addition, the conventional method would
require more above-grade clay storage, thus increasing the potential
for dam breaks and release of clays into surface water systems.
Use of the sand/clay mixing method could (if pilot test results
could be realized in a full-scale operation) allow faster clay
settling, making larger volumes of water available for other uses; it
would also decrease the amount of above-grade storage areas, reducing
the potential for dam breaks. If the flocculation method were used to
combine the sand and the clay, flocculants could be introduced into the
local aquatic environment.
3.2-14
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Wetlands Preservation - Alternative wetland preservation schemes
are discussed in Section 2.10. Many of the wetlands preserved under
the alternative plans act to improve the water quality in adjacent
streams by serving as biological filters and nutrient traps for run-
off waters. Therefore, while the proposed and the site-specific pre-
servation schemes would benefit the water quality in Oak and Brushy
Creeks, the USEPA areawide categorization plan and the systems preser-
vation approach (both of which would preserve substantially more wet-
land acreage) would have a somewhat greater benefit to the water
quality of these two creeks.
No Action or Postponement of Action - If the proposed mining
operation were not undertaken, the site drainage patterns and water
balance would remain the same as they are at present. If mining acti-
vities were delayed, it is possible that technological advances made
during the period of delay would include the means for better water
recovery from slimes and more effective methods of stream reclamation.
3.2.1.3 Mitigative Measures '
A number of mitigative measures have been included in MCC's pro-
posed plan of action. These are described in the following sections.
Reduction of Streamflow
The reduction of Streamflow attributable to the mining activities
would be mitigated during reclamation. Areas which were formerly
isolated from natural drainage and did not contribute to Streamflow
would be eliminated. In addition, drainage divides would be created by
land contouring to restore the natural drainage areas of affected
streams. As a result, the flow on all streams after final reclamation
is expected to be reasonably similar to that which existed prior to the
mining activities.
Diversion of Streamflow
All flow diversions from Brushy Creek are subject to the main-
tenance of certain monthly minimum flows established by SWFWMD
3.2-15
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downstream of the point of diversion. These flows, which range from
0.002 cfs in May to 16.4 cfs in August, represent the average monthly
minimum flows on Brushy Creek below which diversion would not be per-
mitted. As was discussed in Section 3.2.1.2, however, no diversion
would actually take place when the flow in Brushy Creek is less than
3.25 cfs. The months of October through June have average minimum
flows from 0.002 cfs to 2.5 cfs. Since these values are less than 3.25
cfs, the proposed diversion arrangement reduces the likelihood for flow
diversion during these months.
The remaining months of July through September have average mini-
mum flows from 5.58 to 16.4 cfs, which are greater than 3.25 cfs. Flow
during those months would normally be sufficiently great such that the
proposed diversion arrangement would not reduce the monthly average
flows below the specified minimum values. These months could, however,
have average flows less than the minimum values during abnormally dry
years. In such instances, no water wo_uld be diverted from Brushy
Creek.
jiffluent Discharge
The following measures would be taken to minimize the amount of
effluent discharged as overflow from the clear water pond:
The normal operating level of the clear water pond would be
approximately 5 feet below the overflow point. This drawdown
would provide 150 acre-feet of storage, equivalent to approxi-
mately 1.75 inches of excess rainfall, prior to pond overflow.
During periods of excess rainfall, pumpage of ground water would
be reduced to the minimum amount necessary for the amine
flotation process. Pumping of water from the Brushy Creek
storage basin would similarly be reduced or eliminated.
Clay settling area overflow weirs would be raised during periods
of heavy rainfall to reduce the amount of outflow reaching the
clear water pond.
3.2-16
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The following water treatment and design features would serve to
further mitigate the potential impact of effluent discharge:
0 Wastewaters from ore transportation, washing, -flotation, and
waste disposal operations would be recycled to the water
recirculation system for treatment in clay settling areas,
thereby substantially reducing a potential source of water pol-
lution.
0 The clay settling areas would serve as effective wastewater
treatment facilities. Operating personnel would be assigned
full-time to monitor and control the quality of the effluent.
Local Water Quality Degradation
The following measures could be taken to mitigate potential local
water quality degradation:
0 Berms would be constructed around parcels of land prior to
clearing of vegetation, to prevent sediment-laden water from
reaching adjacent streams. Runoff from such areas would be col-
lected and routed to the plant recirculation system for treat-
ment.
8 Ditches would be constructed around the perimeter of clay set-
tling area embankments to intercept and collect seepage. Such
water would be routed to the plant recirculation system for
treatment.
0 Thick-wall pipe, extra thick gaskets, and full-bolted flanges
will be used at stream and road crossings, and regular
inspection of pipeline crossings will be instituted. Accidental
spillage of waste clays at other locations would be prevented
from reaching adjacent streams by the construction of berms
identified above.
Hypothetical Clay Settling Area Embankment Failure
The following measures would be taken to reduce the possibility of
a clay settling area embankment failure:
3.2-17
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The clay settling areas would be designed by an experienced
professional engineer and be based on a thorough investigation
of foundation and soil conditions existing at the proposed con-
struction sites.
The rules of the Florida DER for the design, construction,
inspection, and maintenance of earthen dams promulgated under
Chapter 17-9, Florida Administrative Code, would be strictly
adhered to and complied with. The proposed mining operation
would also comply with other applicable state and/or local
ordinances concerning retaining dikes.
Construction of the clay settling areas would be inspected daily
by a qualified representative of the design engineer to
ascertain that the embankments, spillways, and control
structures meet the design specifications. Prior to the
introduction of waste clay into the areas, the entire structure
would be thoroughly inspected by the design engineer.
The settling areas would be visually inspected during each
eighthour shift and would be thoroughly inspected on a weekly
basis by operations personnel who have been instructed by the
design engineer regarding items to be checked.
A registered professional engineer, who is experienced in the
design, construction, and maintenance of earthen dams would make
annual inspections of the dam systems. On a monthly basis, he
would also review the reports of the operation personnel. A
report of his findings would be submitted to the Florida DER.
3.2-18
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3.2.2 Ground Water
3.2.2.1 Baseline Conditions
Aquifer Characteristics
Regionally, ground water is available in useable quantities from
three hydrogeologic units: the surficial or shallow aquifer, the upper
unit of the Floridan aquifer, and the lower unit of the Floridan
aquifer (see Figure 3.1-2). Regional characteristics of each of the
units are presented in the ADA/DRI (MCC, 1977); their site charac-
teristics are presented here.
Lithology of the surficial aquifer at the site consists of an
upper sand unit and a lower phosphorite unit. This upper sand unit
consists of very fine to very coarse grained quartz sands with minor
lenses of interbedded clays. Thickness varies between 5 and 40 feet
and averages 20 feet. The phosphatic clay unit beneath the sand con-
sists of a gray to greenish-gray phosphatic clay and contains inter-
bedded lenses of clayey sand. This unit varies between 40' and 60 feet
in thickness. The upper sand unit functions as the surficial uncon-
fined aquifer while the lower phosphatic clay acts as the lower con-
fining bed for the surficial aquifer and part of the upper confining
unit of the upper Floridan aquifer. Figure 3.2-5 shows the variability
in thickness of the surficial aquifer as developed from cores and logs
of shallow observation wells on the property. Thicknesses and rela-
•
tionships between the surficial sands, the phosphatic clay unit, and
the Hawthorn Formation are also shown in Figure 3.2-5.
Infiltration of precipitation is the major source of ground water.
Recharge to the surficial aquifer is due to downward percolation
through interconnected pore spaces. Water entering the surficial
aquifer moves laterally in a direction mainly controlled by topography
and lithology.
Water table levels vary seasonally. The lowest levels occur
during March, April, and May, while highest levels occur during July,
August, and September. Figures 3.2-6 and 3.2-7 show the water level
3.2-19
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for May and July, respectively. The average difference in water level
between the two periods is about 5 feet.
Water-bearing capabilities of the surficial aquifer are variable
throughout the property due to the deviations in grain size within the
unit. Transmissivities determined from pumping tests range from
1.5 x 103 to 1.3 x 104 gpd/ft and average 6.5 x 103 gpd/ft.
Storage coefficients ranged from 7.7 x 10~3 to 2.5 x 10~2.
The Floridan aquifer system at the site can be divided into four
units on the basis of lithology and permeability. These units are, in
order of increasing depth: the first confining bed, the upper unit of
the Floridan aquifer, the second confining bed, and the lower unit of
Floridan aquifer (Figure 3.1-2).
The first confining bed acts as the lower confining bed for the
surficial aquifer and the upper confining bed for the upper Floridan
aquifer. This unit corresponds to the Bone Valley Formation in Polk
County (Stewart, 1966) and the upper clays of the Hawthorn Formation.
Lithic materials comprising this bed are essentially clays, sandy
clays, marls, and some dense limestones. This confining bed is
approximately 260 feet thick. Leakance values through this unit are
less than 1 x 10~5 ft/day/ft.
Below the first confining bed lies the upper unit of the Floridan
aquifer. Wilson (1977) determined this aquifer to average 150 feet
throughout Hardee County; however, boring logs indicate that only about
40 feet act as an effective aquifer at the proposed site. The upper
unit of the Floridan aquifer is composed of permeable limestones of the
Hawthorn Formation and the Tampa Limestone. Hydraulic properties for
this unit display a relatively low degree of variability, a result of
the homogeneous nature of the lithic materials. Aquifer tests of the
upper unit of the Floridan aquifer yielded transmissivities from 1.2 x
104 gpd/ft to 6.5 x 104 gpd/ft. Storage coefficients for the upper
unit of the Floridan Aquifer ranges between 1.1 x 10~1 and
1.7 x 10-2.
3.2r20
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Recharge to the upper unit of the Floridan aquifer can be a
product of a number of processes. Generally, recharge occurs by
vertical migration of water along fractures, faults, sink holes and
from downward leakage through the upper confining bed. Horizontal
recharge of ground water is along bedding planes and solution features,
with movement in the direction of decreasing head.
Underlying the upper unit of the Floridan aquifer at the proposed
site is the upper confining bed of the lower unit of the Floridan
aquifer known as the sand and clay unit of the Tampa Limestone. Gen-
erally, this bed contains dense clays and fine sands, is heterogenous
in nature, and averages 140 feet in thickness. On the site, the sand
and clay unit functions as a tight confining bed with leakance values
less than 1 x 10~5 ft/day/ft.
The sand and clay unit of the Tampa Limestone is underlain by the
lower unit of the Floridan aquifer. Lithic material included in this
unit are limestones and dolostones of the Suwannee Limestone, the Ocala
Group, and the Avon Park Limestone. Although the lower unit of the
Floridan aquifer is composed of three different formations, it func-
tions as a single hydrologic unit. The lower unit of the Floridan
aquifer lies approximately 475 feet below land surface and ranges
between 750 and 900 feet thick at the site.
At the property, a comprehensive aquifer pumping test program was
implemented in order to establish the hydraulic parameters of each
limestone unit. Table 3.2-7 shows the thickness and the range of
values for transmissivity and storage coefficients within the Suwannee
Limestone, the Ocala Group, and the Avon Park Limestone.
Ground water Quality
The chemical quality of ground water is generally governed by
equilibrium reactions involving the ground water and the lithic
material contacted. Geochemically, the concentrations of chemical
constituents are dependent upon the chemical composition of soils or
rocks which the water is passing through, the temperature, the pH, the
3.2-21
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Eh (redox potential), the pressure, and the duration of contact.
Generally ground water having the shortest residence time has the
lowest dissolved mineral content, while ground waters of long residence
time have the highest mineral content. Dalton (1977) and Wilson (1977)
have discussed the water quality in the three aquifers in the west-
central Florida Phosphate District.
As part of earlier permit applications (MCC, 1976), chemical
analyses were obtained for several ground water samples taken from the
surficial aquifer, the upper unit of the Floridan aquifer, and the
lower unit of the Floridan aquifer on the MCC property. In general,
the ground water quality at the site is consistent with the overall
regional trends in ground water quality. Water quality characteristics
obtained during the sampling program are identified on Table 3.2-8.
This table identifies wells from which samples were taken, the aquifer
type, geologic unit, depth, and water level (MCC, 1976). Samples were
analyzed for: temperature, pH, specific conductance, turbidity, iron,
calcium, magnesium, sodium, potassium, bicarbonate, sulfate, chloride,
nitrate, fluoride, phosphate, total alkalinity, hardness, and total
dissolved solids. All analytical results are expressed in milligrams
per liter (mg/liter) unless otherwise specified.
Existing Ground Water Use
Ground water is presently used on the site for irrigation, stock
watering, and domestic purposes. A well inventory prepared by P. E.
LaMoreaux & Associates, Inc., identified approximately 232 wells on the
site and within two miles of the property boundary. Approximately 101
of these wells are within the site proper and are listed in Table
3.2-9. Information concerning the well construction and yield, if
known, is included in the table. The locations of these wells are
shown on Figure 3.2-8. Of the 101 on-site existing wells, 68 were
installed by MCC as part of the hydrogeologic investigations of the
site. The remaining 33 wells existing on-site are irrigation,
domestic, and stock watering wells.
3.2-22
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Nine of the existing wells permitted by the Southwest Florida
Water Management District under Consumptive Use Permit Nos. 27703508,
27703518, 27703519, 27703520, and 27703521 consumptively utilize
5,579,589 gallons per day on an annual average basis. This ground
water is used for irrigation of improved pasture. As stated in MCC's
Consumptive Use Permit No. 27703567, MCC's permitted withdrawals would
include the withdrawals from the nine existing permitted wells. As
MCC's withdrawals commenced, ground water withdrawals from these
existing wells would be reduced and ultimately terminated to ensure
that the maximum withdrawal rates specified in MCC's permit were not
exceeded.
Other existing on-site wells would be abandoned during the mining
operations. Shallow aquifer wells would be physically removed as the
overburden sands were stripped. Floridan aquifer wells would be
abandoned in accordance with the Rules of the Department of Environmen-
tal Regulation, Chapter 17-21, "Rules and Regulations Governing Water
Wells in Florida." The abandonment procedure would involve plugging
the well from the bottom to top with neat cement grout.
3.2.2.2 Environmental Impacts
MCC's Proposed Action
Potential ground water impacts are primarily related to ground
water withdrawals for production water usage and to mine dewatering
activities. The potential impacts on ground water levels and quality
resulting from these activities are discussed in this section.
Ground Water Usage - Withdrawals from the lower unit of the
Floridan aquifer would provide much of the process make-up water. The
total withdrawal is limited to 16,981,920 gallons per day (gpd) on an
annual average basis and 33,850,500 gpd on a maximum daily basis by the
Southwest Florida Water Management District (SWFWMD) in MCC's Consump-
tive Use Permit No. 27703567 (Appendix D). The withdrawals can be made
from six production wells during the first three years of mining.
3.3-23"
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Thereafter, surface water usage would be maximized, reducing withdrawal
from the lower unit of the Floridan aquifer to approximately
11,896,000 gpd.
Five of the production wells would withdraw ground water from the
lower unit of the Floridan aquifer for use as process make-up water
(Figure 3.2-9). The remaining well would be used for potable water
withdrawn from the upper unit of the Floridan aquifer. Potable water
withdrawals are limited to 10,080 gpd and 10,500 gpd on an annual
average and maximum daily basis, respectively.
Ground water would also be used to supply approximately
430,000 gpd for .seal water for centrifugal pumps on the matrix and sand
tailings slurry transport lines. This water would be withdrawn from
the upper unit of the Floridan aquifer. Necessary wells would be in-
stalled and abandoned frequently as the locations of the centrifugal
pumps changed.
Ground water withdrawals from the lower unit of the Floridan
aquifer would lower potentiometric levels in the aquifer near the
pumping wells, as shown on Figure 3.2-10. Maximum drawdowns of
approximately 7.4 feet would be experienced at the proposed production
well MCLF-6. The maximum drawdown at the site boundaries is projected
to be about 3.3 feet. These drawdowns are relatively small so. that the
potentiometric surface within the lower unit of the Floridan aquifer
would not be significantly affected. Water levels in the upper unit of
the Floridan aquifer and the shallow water table aquifer should not be
affected by production withdrawals. Pumping tests conducted by P.E.
LaMoreaux and Associates, Inc. in 1976 showed no leakance in confining
beds overlying the lower Floridan aquifer. Water levels in upper
aquifers were not affected by these tests.
Off-site, but significant, existing ground water usage occurs in
the town of Ona, located in the southeastern portion of the site.
Forty-one shallow, domestic wells withdraw ground water for use at
individual dwellings. One Floridan aquifer well is also used for
industrial purposes. Figure 3.2-11 shows the locations of these wells.
3.2-24
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It is not anticipated that these wells would be significantly impacted
by the mining operations. Efforts would be made to minimize off-site
drawdowns in the shallow aquifer due to mine cut dewatering. In addi-
tion, approximately 3 to 4 feet of drawdown is expected in the Floridan
aquifer in the vicinity of Ona. The one industrial well completed in
the Floridan aquifer should not, therefore, be significantly affected.
The Farmland Industries, Inc. phosphate mine is located southeast
of and adjacent to MCC's property. Farmland proposes to withdraw
8.8 MGD from one well located in Section 3, T35S, R24E. The effects on
the Floridan aquifer potentiometric level due to this pumping were
presented in USEPA (1981).
The southernmost extremity of MCC's proposed production well field
would be located approximately 2.75 miles northwest of Farmland's pro-
duction well. If withdrawals from these well fields occurred simultan-
eously, the interfering cones of depression would have the following
effects: (1) drawdown at MCC's well field would increase approximately
0.5 to '1.5 feet due to Farmland's pumping activities; (2) drawdown at
Farmland's production well would be increased by approximately 1.5 to 2
feet as a result of MCC's production withdrawals. The combined effects
of pumping from both well fields would result in approximately 5 feet
of drawdown at Ona, which is approximately 2 feet greater than shown on
Figure 3.2-10.
Beyond the MCC and Farmland property boundaries, drawdowns would
increase slightly as a result of the combined pumping. In areas south
of MCC's property and west of the Farmland site, drawdowns would be
approximately 1 to 2 feet greater than shown on Figure 3.2-10. North
of the Farmland and east of the MCC property boundary, combined draw-
downs would result in an increase of approximately 1 to 3 feet over
those shown on Figure 3.2-10.
Water quality of the lower Floridan aquifer should not be affected
by ground water withdrawals for process make-up water. During the
previously-referenced pumping tests in the lower Floridan aquifer, no
3.2-25
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significant variations in ground water quality were observed. Also,
water level drawdowns which would result from the proposed water with-
drawal are of insufficient magnitude to cause vertical salt water
migration from deeper sections of the aquifer to the production zones.
In addition, no evidence was seen of water quality deterioration due to
highly mineralized ground water commonly occurring in evaporite
deposits of the Lake City Limestone. These evaporites occur at ap-
proximately 1,600 feet below ground surface in the area (Dames & Moore,
1975). The production wells would be completed to only approximately
1,250 feet below ground surface.
The potential for sinkhole development due to the depressed
potentiometric levels is minimal. "Thick sequences of competent lime-
stone overlying the lower Floridan aquifer, a lack of surface karstic
features in the area, and minimal potentiometric level reductions due
to pumping result in an insignificant increase in the potential for
sinkhole development.
Approximately 14,084,640 gpd of the total make-up water required
for the project would be consumptively used and not returned to the
hydrogeologic system. The water would be entrapped in clay wastes,
sand tailings, and product. The consumptive use would be approximately
96 percent of the excess annual precipitation falling on the site.
SWFWMD defines this excess precipitation as the water crop, which is
precipitation less evapotranspiration. Since the consumptive use is
less than the water crop, the withdrawals should not result in a long-
term negative effect on water quantities at the site.
Ground water withdrawals from the upper unit of the Floridan
aquifer would be utilized for potable and pump seal water. Potable
water demands are projected to be 10,080 gpd (approximately 7 gallons
per minute) and would not adversely stress the upper Floridan aquifer
or the shallow aquifer.
Pump sealing water demands would also be satisfied by utilizing
the upper Floridan aquifer; approximately 430,000 gpd would
3.2-26
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be withdrawn from the aquifer. The effect of pumping 500 gpm from the
upper Floridan aquifer in a single well was calculated and is shown on
Figure 3.2-12. Drawdowns would decrease relatively rapidly with in-
creased distance from the well. Since these drawdowns would be rela-
tively small, no significant impact should be realized from withdrawals
for seal ing water.
Farmland Industries, Inc. plans to withdraw pump seal water for
its phosphate mining operations from the shallow aquifer (USEPA, 1981).
During pumping tests conducted by MCC on the upper Floridan aquifer, no
appreciable shallow aquifer water level fluctuations were observed
(LaMoreaux, 1976). Leakance through the confining bed separating the
upper Floridan and shallow aquifers is minimal. The shallow aquifer^
water levels 'should not, therefore, be affected by MCC's sealing water
withdrawals.
Potable water withdrawn from the upper unit of the Floridan
aquifer, and not consumptively utilized, would be discharged to the
recirculating mine circuit water as sanitary effluent. Since this
discharge would be less than 7 gpm and the mine circuit recirculation
would be several thousand gallons per minute, no observable water
quality changes should be experienced in the recirculation system.
Mine Dewatering Impacts - The dewatering of mine pits would be
necessary in order to effectively extract the phosphatic matrix. The
matrix underlies the surficial sand which contains the shallow water
table aquifer. These surficial sands (overburden) would be stripped
from the top of the matrix and temporarily stockpiled adjacent to the
mine cut. Ground water contained within the overburden would then
flow into the mine pits and would have to be removed. As a result of
these dewatering activities, shallow aquifer water levels would be
lowered in the vicinity of the mine cuts. The distance these levels
would be lowered and the areas that would be affected are related to
the aquifer hydraulic properties, the geometry of the mine cut, and the
length of time mine pit dewatering continues.
3.2-27
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The factors affecting water table level depression due to mine cut
dewatering vary widely across the site. The impacts of these activi-
ties can only be discussed in general terms. Ground water levels in
the shallow aquifer adjacent to mine cuts could be appreciably lowered
due to seepage into the cut. These water level declines have been
projected based on typical shallow aquifer hydraulic characteristics.
The results of these calculations are shown on Figure 3.2-13. Depend-
ing on the saturated thickness of the water table aquifer, 3 feet of
drawdown in the shallow aquifer might be experienced as far as 600 feet
from the mine cut. MCC's Consumptive Use Permit limits drawdowns in
the shallow aquifer at the property boundaries to 3 feet. Excessive
water level declines in the off-site sections of the shallow aquifer
could impact existing shallow aquifer users. These declines might
lower water levels below the intake portions of existing wells and
reduce the availability of shallow ground water to existing off-site
users. The decline of water levels due to mine cut dewatering might
also significantly reduce water levels in adjacent wetlands, croplands,
pastures, or sensitive areas. The lowered levels might reduce the
availability of water for vegetation in these areas. MCC plans to
construct cut-off trenches or rim-ditches around mining cuts where
such effects could cause adverse impacts (Section 3.2.2.3).
The impacts from mine cut dewatering would be temporary and local.
When mining ceases in an area, mine dewatering activities would be
terminated and water levels would rise to near ambient levels. As
described later, measures are planned to reduce the short-term negative
impacts from dewatering.
Other Impacts - Waste clays and sand tailings storage areas might
affect the shallow aquifer ground water quality. Although specific
data necessary to predict water quality in the waste clays and sand
tailings is not available, it is expected that ground water quality in
the immediate vicinity of these areas would, change. Below and immedi-
ately adjacent to these facilities, changes in pH, total dissolved
solids, specific conductance, fluoride, phosphate, and alkalinity might
3.2-28
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be realized. Due to the very low permeability developed in the waste
clay as the moisture content decreases, the quantity of water seeping
from the clay storage area would be minimal. The effects of this
seepage on ground water quality should, therefore, be very limited.
Water quality changes resulting from sand tailings storage should
also be insignificant. Sand tailings are predominantly silica, which
has a low solubility in water. Ground water quality changes below and
adjacent to the sand tailings storage areas would, as a result, be
related mainly to the sand tailings slurry water quality.
Alternatives
The impacts of the mining method, site location, matrix transport,
liquid effluent disposal, rock drying, wetlands preservation, and pro-
duct transport alternatives are similar to those of the proposed plan.
Impacts discussed in Section 3.2.1.2 (Alternatives) for the ore proces-
sing, water source, "no action," and postponement of action alterna-
tives also apply to ground water impacts. The discussion provided in
Section 3.2.1.2 for waste disposal/reclamation is likewise applicable
to impacts on ground water, with the following additions:
1. The larger acreage of clay storage included in the conven-
tional waste disposal method provides for catchment and
storage of rain water, reducing the need for ground water
resources, while the lower acreage of these areas in the
sand/clay mix method has the opposite impact.
2. In areas where clays or sand/clay mixes were used in reclama-
tion, the water-yielding capabilities of the shallow aquifer
would be impaired.
3.2.2.3 Mitigative Measures
Several measures are planned, recommended or required to mitigate
potential adverse impacts on ground water. These measures are
discussed below.
3.2-29
-------
The Consumptive Use Permit (Number 27703567) issued to MCC by
SWFWMD contains several conditions required to mitigate potential
impacts. These are summarized as follows:
1. Commencing with the fourth year of mining, ground water with-
drawals for process make-up water shall decrease by maximizing
withdrawals of surface water from the Brushy Creek Storage
Basin.
2. The permitted ground water withdrawals are inclusive of
existing users at the site. Total withdrawals from the ground
water system at the property shall not exceed the permitted
quantities including existing withdrawals.
3. Ground water level and quality monitoring is required to
detect changes in the hydrogeologic regime due to the mining
activities. The monitoring includes monitoring of the
fresh/mineralized water interface at depth in the lower
Floridan aquifer.
4. Prior to dewatering mine pits within 450 feet of the property
boundaries, MCC must obtain written consent of adjacent pro-
perty owners before lowering water table levels.
In addition to the permit conditions for impact mitigation, MCC is
planning further actions to mitigate the effects of mine cut de-
watering. Where the dewatering would lower water table levels so as to
cause adverse impacts, MCC plans to construct cutoff trenches. These
trenches are shallow, linear excavations installed between the mine cut
and the area of concern. The trench is recharged by pumping water from
the mine pit to the trench, which causes the cutoff trench to act as a
recharge boundary. Therefore, water level declines are not experienced
in the shallow aquifer beyond the trench but are limited to the area
between the mine pit and trench. A berm is constructed between the
mine pit and trench to contain surface water runoff and pumped.water in
the ditch and areas beyond.
3.2-30
-------
As required by state regulations, appropriate well construction
and abandonment procedures for all production and sealing water wells
must be followed. These procedures have been established, in part, to
prevent the drainage of upper aquifer waters to lower aquifers through
poor well construction and abandonment techniques. These procedures
would be adhered to in order to prevent unnecessary changes in ground
water levels or quality, especially where the frequently abandoned and
installed sealing water wells are concerned.
3.2-31
-------
TABLE 3.2-1
STREAMS RECEIVING MCC SITE DRAINAGE
Site Area Which Drains Into Creek
Basin/Creek Acres Percent
Peace River Basin
Oak Creek 5,738 38.6
Hickory Creek 1,316 8.9
Troublesome Creek 51_ 0.3
Total 7,105 47.8
Horse Creek Basin
Brushy Creek 6,959 46.9
Horse Creek 588 4.0
Lett is Creek 198 1.3
Total 7,745 52.2
Source: MCC, 1977.
-------
TABLE 3.2-2
WATER QUALITY SUMMARY
PEACE RIVER AND HORSE CREEK BASINS
Peace River Horse Creek
Parameter9
Temperature (°C)
Dissolved Oxygen
pH (su)
Specific Conductance (ymhos/cm)
Fecal Col i form (col/100 ml)
Biochemical Oxygen Demand
Total Organic Carbon
Color (CPU)
Turbidity (JTU)
Suspended Solids
Dissolved Solids
Total Solids
Total Acidity (as CaC03)
Total Alkalinity (as CaC03)
Sulfate
Fluoride
Total Phosphate (as P)
Total Orthophosphate (as P)
Ammonia (as N)
Nitrate (as N)
Organic Nitrogen (as N)
Iron
Al umi num
Arsenic
Avg.
24.2
7.1
6.7
401
23
1.0
10.4
72
6.1
7
276
-
-
58.5
105
1.6
3.59
3.00
0.11
1.42
0.91
0.28
0.18
0.003
Max.
31.5
10.4
7.8
590
86
1.9
20.0
200
15
13
392
-
-
117
180
2.7
28.0
21.0
0.88
4.40
1.90
0.83
0.40
0.010
Min.
14.0
5.1
4.2
100
2
0.0
5.0
8
1.0
4
132
-
-
24.0
24
0.7
0.14
0.13
0.01
0.00
0.27
0.05
0.00
0.001
Avg.
24.3
6.7
7.1
283
51
3.0
17.3
168
-
-
-
315
14
135
92
0.29
0.56
0.50
0.10
0.10
1.13
-
-
"
Max.
32.0
13.2
8.6
900
690
30.5
36.0
480
-
-
-
1025
72
333
359
0.45
1.00
2.80
0.36
0.44
2.25
-
-
Min.
12.5
3.5
5.7
60
2
0.1
4.0
30
-
-
-
64
0
11
2
0.00
0.31
0.06
0.00
0.00
0.00
—
-
aUnits are mg/liter unless otherwise noted.
Source: Environmental Science and Engineering, Inc., 1977,
-------
TABLE 3.2-3
WATER QUALITY SUMMARY
BRUSHY AND OAK CREEKS
Brushy Creek
Oak Creek
Parameter3
Temperature (°C)
Dissolved Oxygen
pH (su)
Specific Conductance (ymhos/cm)
Fecal Col i form (col/100 ml)
Biochemical Oxygen Demand
Total Organic Carbon
Color (CPU)
Turbidity (NTU)
Suspended Solids
Total Solids
Oil and Grease
Total Acidity (as CaC03)
Total Alkalinity (as CaCQ^)
Sulfate
Fluoride
Total Phosphate (as P)
Total Orthophosphate (as P)
Ammonia (as N)
Nitrate (as N)
Organic Nitrogen (as N)
Iron
Al umi num
Arsenic
Avg.
24
5.9
6.1
150
120
2.8
33
370
5
7
160
<5
13
35
7
0.36
0.74
0.50
0.16
0.06
1.4
0.9
1.22
<0.02
Max.
31
9.6
7.2
280
300
5.8
53
510
32
18
220
5.0
34
104
14
0.50
1.60
1.30
0.81
0.20
3.8
1.7
2.0
0.03
Min.
15
0.5
5.0
76
10
1.0
15
49
1.0
1.0
110
<5
3.0
8.0
2.0
0.26
0.05
0.05
0.05
0.002
5.0
0.12
0.5
0.01
Avg.
23
2.9
5.5
160
60
2.1
36
380
3
6
160
<5
23
27
7
0.26
0.51
0.35
0.16
0.07
1.3
0.8
1.19
<0.02
Max.
31
12.2
6.8
350
210
4.4
53
570
21
26
280
<5
49
100
28
0.41
1.2
1.0
0.27
0.30
2.4
1.8
2.0
0.03
Min.
16
0.4
4.6
68
10
1.0
23
140
1.0
1.0
110
<5
7.0
4.0
1.0
0.14
0.06
0.04
0.05
0.002
0.5
0.1
0.1
0.01
aUnits are mg/liter unless otherwise noted.
Source: Environmental Science and Engineering, Inc., 1977,
-------
TABLE 3.2-4
CHEMICAL COMPOSITION OF EFFLUENT DISCHARGE
Parameter9 Value
Temperature (°F) 55 (winter) -
85 (summer); avg.
Dissolved Oxygen (mg/1) 7.5 - 10.0
pH (su) 6.0-9.0
Specific Conductance (vimhos/cm) 200-900
Total Suspended Solids 0-60 (30 avg.)
Oil and Grease 15 (avg.)
Nitrate 0.92-1.00
Nitrite <0.001-0.014
Total Phosphorus 1.80-2.70
Sulfate 44.44-89.29
Chloride 17.10-19.60
Fluoride 1.20-1.81
Aluminum . 0.19 (avg.) -
Calcium 53.9-66.4
Iron 0.019-0.023
Magnesium 17.6-19.8
Manganese 0.006-0.017
Potassium 1.1-1.7
Sodium 8.8-8.9
Radium-226 (pCi/1) 1.0
Expressed in mg/1 unless otherwise specified.
Source: NPDES Permit Application (proposed discharge) values for tem-
perature, pH, specific conductance, total suspended solids,
oil and grease, and aluminum. Expected values for dissolved
oxygen were derived from measurements made at another
phosphate mining operation in Florida. The predicted Ra-226
concentration was calculated from maximum expected dissolved
(Guimond and Windham, 1975) and suspended solids loadings in
the effluent and from Ra-226 concentrations in the clay wastes
(Table V B-3). Values for other parameters based upon analy-
sis of supernatant liquid from two clay samples from the mine
property - not taken from the NPDES permit application.
-------
TABLE 3.2-5
EFFLUENT LIMITATIONS FOR NEW SOURCES
Agency/Parameter 1-Day Maximum 30-Day Average
USEPA
Total Suspended Solids (mg/1) 60 30
pH (su) 6.0-9.0 6.0-9.0
Florida PER
Total Suspended Solids (mg/1) 60 30
Total Fixed Solids (mg/1) 25 12
Total Phosphorus (mg/1) 5 3
pH (su) 6.0-9.0 6.0-9.0
Source: USEPA Regulations - 40 CFR 136, subpart R. Florida Regula-
tions - Rules of Department of Environmental Regulation,
Chapter 17-6.
-------
TABLE 3.2-6
EFFECTS OF EFFLUENT DISCHARGE ON AMBIENT WATER QUALITY
Ful
June
Parameter
Concentrations
Parameter^
Temperature (°F)
pH (su)
pH (su)
pH (su)
Sp. Cond. ( mhos/cm)
Sp. Cond. ( mhos/cm)
Total Suspended Solids
01 1 and Grease
Nitrate
Nitrite
Total Phosphate
Sulfate
Chloride
Fluoride
Aluminum
Ca 1 c 1 urn
1 ron
Magnesium
Manganese
Potassium
Sod I urn
Effluent
85
6.0
9.0
9.0
900
900
30
15
0.96
0.007
2.25
66.87
18.35
1.51
0.19
60.2
0.021
18.7
0.012
1.4
8.9
Ambient
87.8
4.6
6.8
4.6
350
68
6
<5
0.07
—
0.51
7.0
—
0.26
1.19
—
0.8
—
—
Average
Effluent
Discharge
86.1
4.9
7.1
5.0
667
547
19.8
<10.8
0.58
0.004C
1.51
41.47
10.56C
0.98
0.61
34. 7C
0.35
10. 8C
0.01C
0.81C
5.1C
Maximum
Effluent
Discharge
85.5
5.2
7.4
5.3
788
• 731
25.1
<13.0
0.78
0.010C
1.90
54.70
14.62C
1.26
0.39
48. Oc
0.18
14. 9C
0.0 10C
1.12C
7.1C
July
Average
Effluent
Discharge
86.7
4.8
6.9
4.8
571
403
15.7
<9.0
0.43
0.003C
1.21
31.11
7.39C
0.76
0.79
24. 2C •
0.49
7.5
.005C
0.56C
3.6C
_j_ — . 1 «
August
Maximum
Effluent
Discharge
85.8
5.0
7.2
5.1
713
618
21.9
<11.6
0.66
0.005C
1.66
46.55
12.12C
1.09
0.53
39.8°
0.29
12. 4C
0.008C
0.92C
5.9C
Average
Effluent
Discharge
86.7
4.8
6.9
4.8
539
355
14.3
<8.4
0.38
0.002C
1.11
27.62
6.32C
0.69
0.85
20. 7C
0.53
6.4C
0.004C
0.48C
3.1C
Maximum
Effluent
Discharge
86.0
5.0
7.1
5.0
681
569
20.5
<11.0
0.61
0.004C
1.56
43.09
11.10C
1.01
0.59
36. 3C
0.33
11. 3C
0.007C
0.84C
5.4C
September
Average
Effluent
Discharge
86.9
4.7
6.9
4.8
516
320
13.3
<8.0
0.34
0.002C
1.04
25.12
5.55C
0.64
0.89
18.2
0.56
5.7C
0.004C
0.42C
2.7C
Max \ mum
Effluent
Discharge
86.2
4.9
7.0
5.0
656
531
19.3
<10.6
0.57
0.004C
1.48
40.30
10.2
0.96
0.63
33. 5C
0.37
10. 4C
0.007C
0.78C
4.9C
Florida
Standards'3
92 max.
{6.0 mi n.
8.5 max. or 1 .0 max.
change from ambient
{500 max. or 100? max
change from ambient
__
5.0 max.
— —
—
"""•
"•"•
—
10.0 max*
—
—
-.—
1 .0 max*
Expressed in mg/l unless otherwise specified.
bPertaln to levels in receiving water body, except temperature standard
which pertains to effluent. Includes general and Class III water quality criteria.
cNo ambient water quality data exist. Values represent maximum increase in
concentration which could occur due to effluent discharge.
-------
TABLE 3.2-7
HYDRAULIC PARAMETERS OF LIMESTONE UNITS
Limestone Thickness Transmissivity (gpd/ft) Coefficient of Storage
Unit (ft.) Range Range
Suwannee 240 1.5 x 105 - 1.9 x 105 1.3 x 10"8 - 4.5 x 10"6
Ocala Group 265 7.3 x 105 - 9.0 x 105 8.2 x 10"6 - 1.1 x 10'5
Ocala Group 510 1.0 x 106 - 1.5 x 102 7.9 x 10~4 - 1.4 x 10~2
and Avon Park
-------
TABLE 3.2-8
MISSISSIPPI CHEMICAL CORPORATION RESULTS OF GROUND WATER QUALITY ANALYSES
Total
Specific T f , Dissolved
Conductance Turbidity
Well
Number
MCRW
1
MCSA
7
MCSA
9
MCSA
15
MCSA
16
MCSA
14
MCLF
1
MCLF
1
MCLF
1
MCLF
1
MCLF
MCLF
1
MCLF
1
Aquifer9
SA
SA
SA
SA
SA
SA
UF
UF
LF
LF
LF
LF
LF
Geologic
Unit b
Plelst
Plelst
Plelst
Plelst
Plelst
Plelst
HA, TA
HA, TA
Stf
SW
OC
OC, If
OC, AP
Mater Level
Depth (ft. BGS)
40 11.19 .
20
20
20
20
20
310 44.61
310 44.61
710 38.87
710 38.87
860 31.24
1201 28.11
1201 28.11
Date or
Collection
03-11
1976
07-08
1976
07-07
1976
07-07
1976
07-06
1976
07-12
1976
01-05
1976
01-08
1976
02-12
1976
02-14
1976
03-08
1976
03-24
1976
04-05
1976
lamp.
CO pH
25 6.5
— 5.9
5.3
5.4
— 5.5
5.8
24.4 7.3
24.4 7.0
25 7.6
25 7.4
28 7.6
28 7.4
28.5 7.4
vulluuwion^e i
(mlcrcmhos/cm)
113
99
81
67
116
113
515
490
392
405
375
410
402
1 Ul M I W 1 If
(JTU) Fe Ca
0.3 1 1
0.5 2.4
0.6 4.0
0.4 4.8
2.2 7.2
78 - 18
0.1 <0.1 38.1
0.6 <0.1 45.8
0.9 - 51
0.2 - 53
2. 1 - 54
0.5 - 53
O.I - 53
Mg Na K
2.9 3.7 1.1
1.0 8.9 6.72
0.5,13.8 0.26
1.0 6.6 0.88
2.4 17.6 1.72
1.5 3.6 1.08
27.0 24.0 3.0
24.0 18.0 2.8
17 6.1 1.2
17 6.8 1.2
15 6.4 1.5
14 5.4 1.6
18 5.4 1.5
HC03
46.5
-
-
-
-
-
229
205
197
207
215
176
180
S04
2.0
9
5 .
3
12
1.00
10
38
31
33
50
60
60
Cl
6.0
14
9
7
12
5.0
43
34
10
11
8.0
8.0
9.0
NOj F
9.7 0.2
0.23 0.5
0.10 1.4
0.07 0.4
0.14 0.9
0.09 1.0
0.04 5.0
0.03 3.1
0.001 0.49
0.001 0.48
0.01 0.52
0.10 0.5
0.02 0.5
P04 Al
0.4
1.70
4.12
1.05
5.05
6.06
-------
TABLE 3.2-9
WATER WELL INVENTORY
CASING
WELL NUMBER
3727I3N06154S9.1
272723N08I6500.I
272742N08l561t.l
272807N081 5547.1
273811NOB15545.1
272612N0815539.1
2 728I6N081 5457.1
272820N0816719.I
272820N0816719.2
372820N081SBie.l
372830NOB1545I.1
27284IN0815517.1
272842N081 5526.1
273B4BN081 5433.1
272849N08I6S17.1
272852N081S6S1 .1
272858N0815804.1
272906N08155I4.1
272907N0815627.1
272908N0815928 1
2729I1N0815725.1
2729I2N0815803.1
272913N0816944.1
272914N0820043.1
272915NOB154S8.1
272915N081SBS4.1
272919N0816930.1
272935N08I5330.1
272936N061MO0.1
272938NOB15359.1
272944 N082001 1.1
272944N082001U
272944N08200H.3
272944N08 2001 1.4
272944 N082001 1.6
272945N0820022.1
272948NOB15403.1
272948NOB16811.1
272950N0815420.1
272950N0815752.1
272951N0815624.1
272952N08 15552.1
272964NOB15632.1
2729S4NOB201S6.1
272954 N0820156.2
2729&8N0815433.1
272B58NO81S716.1
272959N0815301.1
272959 N08154I9.1
273002N08154D3.1
2730O3NOB16237.1
OWNERS
NUMBER
MCSA-13
P22
P21
P20
W 12. OW-B
W-11
P43
PI9
.MCSA-9
P31
W32
P44
W-33
P42
MCSA-14
P23
P4I
P24
P.IO
MCSA-8
PI1
P30
P28
P2«
P9
PIS
-
P36
MCSA 16
W«
MCRO-1
MCRO-2
MCRO-3
MCRO-4
MCRW-1
P1»
_
P14
W-30
W-6. OW-7
W-3B
P33
P12
P40
MCSA-7
P7
W 36, DW-6
P46
W28
_
P34
DEPTH
IN FEET
te
36
46
46
_
-
46
40
20
16
_
ao
_
40
20
40
16
25
26
16
16
12
42
26
46
46
-
46
20
-
30
30
30
340
346
46
_
23
_
_
_
40
26
65
20
46
_
46
_
_,
30
DEPTH
IN FEET
5
-
—
_
_
_
-
20
10
—
_
_
_
_
10
_
.
_
_
6
_
_
_
_
_
_
_
_
10
_
10
10
10
102
73
_
_
_
_
_
_
_
_
_
10
_
_
_
_
_
-
DIAM. IN
INCHES
6
2
2
2
12
_
2
2
6
2
3
2
4
2
6
2
1
2
2
6
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
3
12
3
2
2
2
6
2
12
2
2
2
2
YIELD
ami
_
_
_
2000
_
_
_
_
_
_
_
_
_
_
_
_
_
_
_
_
_
_
_
_
_
_
_
_
_
_
_
_
_
_
_
_
_
_
_
_
_
_
_
_
_
2000
^
_
_
-
WELL
PURPOSE
0
0
0
0
|
S
0
0
0
0
S
0
_
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
R
0
0
0
0
0
D
0
_
_
S
0
a
0
0
0
1
0
D
0
YEAR
DRILLED
1976
1976
1975
1976
_
_
1975
1975
1976
1976
_
1975
_
1975
1976
1975
1976
1976
1975
1976
1976
1975
1975
1975
1975
1975
1975
1976
1976
1976
1976
1976
1976
1975
1976
_
_
1975
1975
1975
1976
1975
1975
1976
OWNER
MCC
MCC
MCC
MCC
Sul Smilh
Su« Smith
MCC
MCC
MCC
MCC
0. Cirlton
MCC
Sat Smith
MCC
MCC
MCC
MCC
MCC
MCC
MCC
MCC
MCC
MCC
MCC
MCC
MCC
D. W«d
MCC
MCC
D. Wwd
MCC
MCC
MCC
MCC
MCC
MCC
0. W«d
0. Ccrllon
D. Ctrlton
MCC
MCC
MCC
MCC
MCC
0. Ctrlton
MCC
D. Ward
MCC
ELEVATION
OF WELL
90.30
78.93
82.95
82.95
80.42
83.36
78.75
_
81.89
_
87.92
86.25
89.78
82.16
78.63
91.76
82 JBO
86.70
83.11
94.18
94.48
91.76
89.06
96.02
99.6
_
__
_
100.87
84.06
88.18
88.60
87.44
101 .65
102.87
89.30
100.89
101.29
WELL NUMBER
273006N081 6919.1
273008NOB16404.1
273008N08I5800.1
273010N08I5724.1
27301 7NOB1 5854.1
273021 NOB1 5523.1
273024N081 6607.1
273025NO815328.1
273026NOB15509.1
273026N0816441.1
273028N0816607.1
273028N081 6607.2
27302BN081 5606.1
27302BN0815608.2
273029N0816605.1
273029N0816605.2
273032N081 6642.1
273033N0815807.1
273034N08 15353.1
273035N0815404.1
27303 5N081 5623.1
273038N081 5416.1
273038N081 6431.1
273038N0815715.0
273O40N0815508.1
273041N0815641.1
273043N0816917.1
273O43N0820015.1
273045N0815508.1
273045N081 6605.1
273045N081S919.1
273049N0816B04.1
273049M08200I8.1
273060N081 5728.1
273050N081 5730.1
273052N0815535.1
273066N0815424.1
273108 N0815636.1
2731D9N0815413.1
273110N0815303.1
273110N0815303.2
273113M081533B.1
273115N0816428.1
273119N0815538.1
273127N0815563.1
273127N0815725.1
273135N0815635.1
273136N0816630.1
273143N0816659.1
273147N0815619.1
OWNERS
NUMBER
P39
W-4
P27
P49
PS
MCLF-3
P46
_
W-31
MCLF-1
MCSA 1
MCLF-2
MCLF4
MCLF-5
MCUF-1
P4
P13
W-7. OW-I
P26
W10
W 28, DW-2
P37
W 26. OW-5
_
W-9
P16
PI 7
P32
VV 24. DW«
MCSA 5
MCSA43
W-2
P3
W«, DW-3
P6
P38
_
P8
MCSA 16
P36
W37
MCSA 2
PI
P26
W-22
W21.0W4
P2
W-20
DEPTH
IN FEET
31
_
41
46
40
1205
30
_
_
1200
12
1140
710
1205
364
42
20
876
46
_
_
42
617
_
45
46
36
20
20
60
60
30
60
210
45
30
45
_
10
63.5
30
_
_
60
_
CASING
DEPTH DIAM. IN
IN FEET
_
_
_
_
_
762
_
_
_
760
2
720
460
753
109
_
_
_
_
_
^
to
_
_
_
_
_
_
10
10
_
_
_
_
120
10
_
1
_
_
_
_
_
_
INCHES
2
2
4
2
2
2
12/8
2
2
2
16/12
8
12/6
8
8/6
8
2
2
12
2
3
10
2
a
2
2
2
2
2
2
12
6
6
2
2
12
2
2
4
2
6
2
2
8
2
2
2
12
2
2
YIELD
GPM
_
_
_
_
_
_
_
_
_ .
_
_
_
_
_
_
_
_
2000
_
1500
2000
_
_
_
_
_
2000
0
_
2000
_
30
_
_
_
_
_
_
_
2000
WELL
PURPOSE
0
0
0
0
0
0 '
0
D
S
T
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
_
0
1
D
S
0
0
D
0
0
0
S
0
1
0
0
o
0
0
0
_
0
0
0
S
1
0
S
YEAR
DRILLED
1975
_
1975
1975
1975
1976
1975
_
_
1976
1976
1976
1976
1976
1976
1976
1976
1975
_
1976
_
_
1975
1975
1975
1976
1976
1976
1975
1976
1971
1975
1976
1975
1976
1975
1975
_
1975
OWNER
MCC
O. Ward
0. CtrlloA
MCC
MCC
MCC
MCC
MCC
_
O Wud
MCC
MCC
MCC
MCC
MCC
MCC
MCC
MCC
0. Wwd
MCC
D. Carlton
O. Cwltofl
MCC
O. W«d
D. Cwlton
MCC
MCC
D. W»rd
MCC
O. Wird
MCC
MCC
0. Cirllon
MCC
O. Cirlton
MCC
MCC
MCC
MCC
MCC
MCC
MCC
MCC
M. OlliH
M. Ollill
MCC
M. Ollilf
ELEVATION
OF WELL
^
89.34
107.77
87.81
96.99
_
10169
_
95.08
95.00
_
_
_
84.78
6766
106.2
107.10
90.89
108.92
107.77
91.49
97.70
93.99
104.12
97.61
94.74
_
92.06
90.71
99.6
106.70
98.13
103.55
107.39
_
101.16
91.93
104.78
104.95
99.37
103.66
Source: MCC, 1977.
Note: The principal purposes of the wells are indicated by the following
symbols: I, irrigation; 0, observation; T, test; R, recharge
connector; D, domestic; S, stock-watering; and dash (-) unknown
nr
-------
, ..->** •""
N
5 10 IS 20
SCALE IN MILES
Source: MCC, 1977.
Figure 3.2-1. Location of the MCC Site in.the Peace River Basin.
-------
N
MISSISSIPPI CHEMICAL
CORPORATION
PROPERTY SITE
HILLSBOROUGl
O E S O 7 O
COUNT
Source: MCC, 1977.
Figure 3.2-2. Surface Drainage Pattern from the Hardee County
Mine Site to Horse Creek and the Peace River.
-------
SOURCE: MCC, 1977.
Figure 3.2-3. The 2-Year, 25 Year and 100-Year Flood Boundaries
of Oak and Brushy Creeks.
-------
poou
auiils i
jo
N
-------
:»- =?A-: ,::
mm
Source: MCC, 1977.
Figure 3.2-5. Geologic Cross Sections of the Near-Surface Geology.
-------
Water-Table Elevations
May 12-14,1976
EXPLANATION:
-—80-^' CONTOUR LINE SHOWS WATER TABLE
ELEVATION ABOVE MEAN SEA LEVEL
Source: MCC, 1977.
Figure 3.2-6. Water-Table Elevations, May 12-14, 1976.
-------
Water-Table Elevations
July 26,1976
EXPLANATION:
80-^ CONTOUR LINE SHOWS WATER TABLE
^ ELEVATION ABOVE MEAN SEA LEVEL
Source: MGC, >977. '
Figure 3.2-7. Water-Table Elevations, July 26, 1976.
-------
-JTS
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54-56.1 d
S4-56.2/
/
/
/
1
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kr
IKKo,
2S-07.2C
(
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r
." /
/
j
i
45-220
?»
. o""
g
£
43*15
H
,o|J-J|l
t y*
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et"A"
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g
e
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•
«
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°s
48-04"
.M
e 08-oo
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O12-03
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r, 20-18 i 20-19.1
°2" " 020-19.2
a..
°-\ ~~
on : 27*27'30"
-<)>- Irrigation
® Stock Watering /
(D Domestic /
/
07-47 O
/,2-H >
/
f
f-
V.
\D21-J
.\
*l
li
^".
\
[
49-171
2«e/
41-1/C
/
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3
>. ONA
lr
\i
V
A
if
i
\
tt
I
1
56
-
240
|b
3 »«^ (0,0-
J5-04O
826-41 25-090)
58-33C
O15-56
( \
49-33O
0«-57
01-04,,,
02-03 rr
| 650-20
a
£
n *
I
23-00 OV
ft
13-59
1\
«r
«
•
<> 34-53
22
) 5«H)I
41-03
G 39-59
n
SR 04
_______
^Mi U.O-03,
O25-29
03-37 nl
27"30*
rdS-30
26
•
N
"'27' 30"
$1
SOURCE: MCC, 1977.
Figure 3.2-8. Existing Wells on Property.
-------
i
zr
SOURCE: MCC, 1977.
Brushy Creek
Reservoir
Figure 3.2-9. Location of Proposed Points of Withdrawal.
-------
~ COMTOUK MOM IMC OF EQUAL
~ 1 MAWOOWII IN FfIT MLOW
STATIC VMTEH LiVEL
OOO^OfOOO
Figured. 2-10.
Cone of Depression Resulting from Pumping the Proposed Well
Field at an Average of 7,974 GPM (11.48 mgd)
SOURCE: MCC, 1977.
-------
27"29'OO"
27029'00"
SOURCE: MCC, 1977.
Explanation:
• Domestic
-•- Industrial
N
500 250 0
i be
Scale in feet
250 500
Figure 3.2-11. Existing Well Locations in Ona, Florida.
-------
LEGEND:
PUMPING WELL
2' DRAWDOWN CONTOUR IN FEET BELOW
STATIC WATER LEVEL
PUMPING WELL(FEET)
ISOTROPIC DRAWDOWN CONTOURS CALCULATED WITH:
TRANSM1SSIVITY = 65,000 GPD/FT
STORAGE COEFFICIENT = 1.66 X IO'2
LEAKANCE = 0
PUMPING RATE = 500 GPM
PUMPING PERIOD=2 YEARS
Figure 3.2-12. Projected Cone of Depression Resulting from Sealing Water Withdrawals
From the Upper Floridan Aquifer.
-------
600
700
8OO
9OC
MAXIMUM DRAWDOWN PERMITTED IN
SHALLOW AQUIFER AT PROPERTY BOUNDARY-
S 2,500 gpd/ft.
= 0.15
f = 30 days
«o= saturated thickneis of
Water-Table Aquifer
100
zoo
900 400 500 600
DISTANCE FROM A MINING CUT IN FEET
900
SOURCE: MCC, 1977.
Figure 3.2-13. Water Level Declines with Distance from a Mining Cut as Related to Thickness
of the Shallow Water-Table Aquifer.
-------
THIS PAGE LEFT BLANK INTENTIONALLY
-------
REFERENCES
Ames, Susan, 1981. Southwest Florida Water Management District,
Brooksville, personal communication.
Dalton, M., 1977. Geochemistry of the contact between bicarbonate and
upwelling sulfate waters in the Floridan aquifer. Unpublished
Master's Thesis, University of South Florida.
Dames & Moore, 1975. Consumptive use application, supporting report,
Hardee County Phosphate Project, for CF Industries, Hardee County,
Florida, Vols. I and II, December, 1975.
Environmental Science and Engineering, Inc., 1977. Water quality
monitoring program, 1975-1976. Submitted to the Mississippi
Chemical Corporation.
Florida Game and Fresh Water Fish Commission, 1973. Pollution
investigation - Peace River and Whidden Creek, Cities Service
Company incident, December 3, 1971. Submitted by: Phil Chapman.
Guimond, R.J. and S. T. Windham, 1975. Radioactivity distribution in
phosphate products, by-products, effluents, and wastes. Prepared
for U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Office of'Radiation
Programs. Technical Note ORP/CSD-75-3.
LaMoreaux, P.E., and Associates, Inc., 1976. Water Resources Evalua-
tion, for Mississippi Chemical Corporation Proposed Phosphate
Mine, Hardee County, Florida, October, 1976.
Mississippi Chemical Corporation, 1976. Consumptive use permit
application submitted to Southwest Florida Water Management
District for Hardee County Phosphate Project. Preapred by P.E.
LaMoreaux and Associates.
, 1977. Development of regional impact, application for
development approval Hardee County Phosphate Mining. Report
submitted to Florida Department of Environmental Regulation.
Prepared by Environmental Science and Engineering.
P.E. LaMoreaux and Associates, 1977. Hydrologic monitoring program, at
the Mississippi Chemical Corporation Property in Hardee County,
Florida.
Southwest Florida Water Management District, 1977. Consumptive use
permit granted to Mississippi Chemical Corporation, Permit No.
27703567.
Stewart, H.G., Jr., 1966. Ground water resources of Polk County,
Florida. Florida Geological Survey, Report of Investigations
No. 44.
-------
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, 1979. Draft environmental impact
statement, Estech General Chemicals Corporation, Duette Mine,
Manatee County, Florida.
, 1981. Draft environmental impact statement, Farmland
Industries, Inc. Phosphate Mine, Hardee County, Florida.
Wilson, W.E., 1977. Groundwater resources of DeSoto and Hardee
Counties, Florida. Florida Bureau of Geology, Report of
Investigations No. 83.
Wirth, Bruce, 1981. Southwest Florida Water Management District,
Brooksville, personal communication.
-------
3.3 BIOLOGY
The following sections discuss the biological characteristics of
the MCC site, including upland communities (80 percent of total area)
and wetland communities (20 percent of total area). In addition,
several miles of intermittent streams cross the property; these are
discussed in the sections on wetlands. The major biological communi-
ties in the study area are illustrated on Figure 3.3-1. The areal
extent of each is listed in Table 3.3-1.
3.3.1 Terrestrial Biology
3.3.1.1 Existing Conditions
Overview
Five vegetation types or terrestrial communities have been identi-
fied in the MCC study area. Three are natural upland communities:
xeric hammock, mesic hammock, and rangeland. Two other habitats on the
site are characteristic of societal activities: agricultural, includ-
ing one citrus grove and extensive pastureland; and ruderal, comprising
fencerows, ditches, and roadsides. The MCC site contains predominantly
pasture/ rangeland habitat interspersed with relatively undisturbed,
vegetated areas which provide habitats for a variety of vertebrate
species. The literature indicates that 301 vertebrate species (37 mam-
mal, 189 bird, 51 reptile, and 24 amphibian) have ranges and habitat
requirements which may occur on various portions of the MCC property.
Field surveys were conducted in April and August 1980 for vegetation
and in April and October 1980 for vertebrate species. Detailed infor-
mation concerning the methodologies and results of the field efforts
are presented in TSD-II.
3.3-1
-------
Svte_ Habitats
Xeric Hammock - Xeric hammocks within the project boundary occupy
only about 30 acres, which is less than 1 percent of the total area.
Major factors which contribute to the xeric nature of this community
include: well-drained soils containing little organic material rate;
high evaporation; and water uptake by tree roots (MCC, 1977). Small
live oak are abundant in the xeric hammocks on the project site, while
longleaf pine and sand live oak comprise a less frequent component of
the overstory in this dry habitat. Spanish moss, several bromeliads,
and other epiphytes are found on the trees in the overstory. The
understory is widely scattered and is composed primarily of turkey oak,
sand live oak, and live oak. Saw palmetto occurs in patches and covers
about 50 percent of the ground surface, the remainder being only
sparsely vegetated. Occasional ground cover species include paspalum,
wiregrass, and crabgrass.
Wildlife must be adapted to high temperatures and drought!ike con-
ditions to utilize xeric hammocks. Numerous species feed in these
communities, but relatively few are considered residents. Typical
vertebrates associated with xeric hammocks include armadillo, gopher
tortoise, southern fence lizard, Florida scrub jay, and ground skink.
Many bird species nest in the xeric hammocks and feed in the nearby
communities; blue jays mocking birds, mourning doves, and several
species of woodpeckers feed extensively within the xeric hammock
itself. Gopher tortoise burrows are common and are used by a variety
of commensal species, including the Florida mouse.
Mesic Hammock - Mesic hammocks occur in areas of intermediate soil
moisture and occupy more than 770 acres (5 percent of the site). They
are richer in organic matter and have a greater water-holding capacity
than xeric hammocks. Mesic hammocks often provide ecotones or buffer
zones between the wetlands and the agricultural uplands. This vegeta-
tion type is most extensive along the Brushy Creek floodplain.
3.3-2
-------
The mesic hammocks on the site are characterized by a dominant
overstory of live oak, with laurel oak and slash pine as overstory sub-
dominants. Understory dominants include wax myrtle, live oak, water
oak, myrtle-leaved holly, tallowwood, muscadine grape, peppervine, and
sabal palm. The ground cover is often sparse and is usually dominated
by Bahia grass, saw palmetto, or wiregrass. Other plants include
American beautyberry, creeping Charlie, tickseed, and zephyr lily.
As a whole, mesic hammocks can support a large assortment of up-
land wildlife species due to the broad range of moisture conditions and
management practices to which the habitat is subjected. These areas
are inhabited by a variety of small mammals, snakes, and toads. The
threatened gopher tortoise and eastern indigo snake are often rela-
tively abundant in these areas. Mesic hammocks which are not well
drained support rabbits, feral hogs, various tree frogs, chorus frogs,
and raccoons in addition to the species occurring in the drier mesic
hammocks. Tree-dwelling birds are more prevalent in mesic hammocks
than in other upland communities, with bluejays, cardinals, mocking-
birds, eastern bluebirds, flycatchers, and woodpeckers being the most
common species. Herons and cranes are common along canal and creek
banks.
Palmetto Range!and/Pine Flatwoods - Pines have been extensively
timbered throughout much of the area, and much of the natural or
planted regrowth is harvested prior to full maturity to provide
fencepost material. This practice leaves large, relatively treeless
tracts that serve as rangeland.
Palmetto rangeland has abundant ground cover consisting of saw
palmetto interspersed with low grasses and shrubs. The overstory is
not well developed, although longleaf pines are present in some areas.
Palmetto rangeland and the occasional pine flatwoods comprise approxi-
mately 6,000 acres (40 percent) of the total site.
3.3-3
-------
The palmetto understory provides abundant cover and nesting sites
but is low in forage value. Ground-dwelling species associated with
this habitat are often wide ranging and include such species as rattle-
snake, armadillo, southern fence lizard, and Florida box turtle.
Prairie species are characteristic of the avian community and include
Florida bobwhite quail, rufous-sided towhee, and eastern meadowlark.
In areas where numerous pines are present, trees provide feeding and
nesting areas for gray squirrels, Sherman's fox squirrels, chickadees,
tufted titmice, and a variety of insect-eating birds, particularly
woodpeckers. The majority of this habitat on the MCC site has been
disturbed by active cattle grazing operations.
Agricultural Lands - Agricultural land uses on the property in-
clude a citrus grove and improved pasture, while ruderal habitats con-
sist of a variety of locally disturbed areas. A single citrus grove
occupies 28 acres, or less than 1 percent, of the total property
acreage. Improved pasture occupies 5,040 acres, or 34 percent, of the
total property acreage.
Important pasture grasses are Bermuda grass, Bahia grass, and
crabgrass. Locally disturbed, ruderal areas such as roadsides,
ditches, and fencerows contain numerous weedy plants, including species
such as those found in the agricultural lands as well as such species
as softrush or pennywort which are adapted to growing in wet ditches.
This habitat is also actively grazed by cattle.
Wildlife species are confined primarily to such herbivores and
granivores as the eastern cottontail rabbit, eastern harvest mouse, and
ground doves, or to insectivores such as armadillos, cattle egrets,
eastern meadowlarks, and loggerhead shrikes. Species such as hawks,
whitetail deer, and feral pigs use the open areas created by pastures
as feeding grounds.
3.3-4
-------
Summary
The upland communities on the MCC site are predominantly palmetto,
pasture, and pine flatwoods habitats, comprising almost 75 percent of
the total study area. These communities are man-dominated, having been
drained or irrigated, as required, for agricultural use. They are
actively utilized as open rangeland for cattle. The mesic and xeric
hammocks represent the only natural areas of biologically diverse
uplands on the site, but these hammocks are small and isolated,
offering minimal wildlife habitat.
3.3.1.2 Environmental Impacts
MCC's Proposed Action
Approximately 8,182 acres of upland habitats on the MCC property
would be directly affected by the clearing or covering of vegetation
during the course of mining operations and plant construction (Table
3.3-1). Approximately 94 percent of the disturbed lands are pasture,
citrus crops, and palmetto range/pine flatwoods. Since mining activi-
ties would disturb land in selective blocks at any one time, much of
the site would remain in a natural state for several years after mining
was initiated.
The most apparent adverse effect of mining and reclamation would
be a loss of the few natural upland habitats which are present on the
site. Mesic hammocks and xeric hammocks would probably be permanently
eliminated where the soil was radically altered by mining or clay stor-
age; soil conditions suitable for improved pasture use would be
created. If fire were suppressed for long periods in areas of in-
creased human activity on the site, xeric hammocks which are indirectly
affected by mining operations would gradually shift to more mesic
conditions.
The loss of upland habitats would directly affect the wildlife
that use these systems. Although undisturbed areas could provide
refuge during mining activities, wildlife habitats on the site are
probably at or near their carrying capacities. Animals from newly
3.3-5
-------
disturbed areas either would not become permanent residents of
undisturbed areas or they would compete with previous residents for the
limited food sources and cover available.
During mining, lowering of the ground water table would indirectly
affect nearby natural communities which are not to be mined. This
effect should be temporary since the water table would be restored to
approximate pre-mining levels during reclamation. The impact of de-
watering activities is expected to be similar to that of a severe
drought. If rainfall were above normal and frequent throughout the
growing season, the lowered water table might have little or no effect
on the vegetation. If rainfall were subnormal or irregular, vegetative
production would be reduced, and some plants might remain dormant for a
year or more. Normal growth in the upland communities should resume
once normal water table levels are attained.
Short-term dewatering of unmined habitats would also stress the
site fauna. Resident wildlife would migrate to areas unaffected by
dewatering, increasing population pressures in these areas. Drought-
like conditions which extend over two or more years could affect
several generations of short-lived animals. Lowered numbers of impor-
tant prey species would also lower population levels of some predators.
However, once the water tables are re-established, most mammal popula-
tions would return rapidly to normal densities.
Some of the native upland communities are not scheduled to be
mined, but might be affected by mining-related activities such as
"walking" of draglines between mine sites, or construction of roads,
dams, and plant facilities. Some of these disturbances would be
long-term, with no reclamation or other mitigation likely. Effects on
biological systems would vary according to the extent of disturbance.
Changes in air quality resulting from mining operations might also
affect the terrestrial communities on the MCC site. Dust and other air
emissions would increase ambient levels during mining, but the only air
pollutant likely to affect the site biota is fluoride. Gaseous
fluorides might -be generated in minor quantities during mining
3.3-6
-------
operations from rock dryers and waste process water ponds (USEPA,
1976). Participates containing fluorides might settle on vegetation
and, if soluble, be transported into plant tissues. Wildlife are most
likely to be affected by foraging on foliage containing fluoride par-
ticulates, but the rainfall in the region wpuld cleanse the vegetation
of particulates at frequent intervals and reduce the potential fluoride
toxicity (USEPA, 1978). Analysis of fluoride deposition from proposed
MCC activities indicates that no adverse effects should be expected
(Section 3.4 and TSD-III). After entering the soil, fluorides would be
scarcely, if at all, absorbed by roots. Other emissions, such as S02
and radionuclides, would occur at such low levels that impacts on the
biota would not be discernible.
Alternatives
Selection of one or more alternatives (Section 2.0) to the pro-
posed plan would generally have similar impacts on upland communities
as would the proposed action. The alternatives that would have the
most potential to modify impacts on upland systems are:
0 The use of a dredge in mining (Section 2.1). This would reduce
the severity of dewatering impacts during early phases of mining
in specific areas.
0 The use of trucks to transport matrix (Section 2.3). This
would result in an increase in noise, dust, and exhaust emis-
sions impacts on biota in the study area.
0 The elimination of a rock dryer on the site (Section 2.7). This
would reduce the potential for air emissions impacts associated
with this process, particularly with respect to the effects of
fluorides on vegetation.
0 The selection of a waste disposal/reclamation alternative
(Sections 2.8 and 2.9). Conventional waste disposal with land-
and-lakes reclamation would result in fewer acres of uplands and
soil conditions unfavorable for mesic or xeric hammocks.
Improved pasture would be the only potential habitat to be
3.3-7
-------
recreated. Sand/clay mixing waste disposal would produce soils
more suitable for agricultural use, but still unsuited to xeric
and mesic hammock habitats.
The use of trucks in product transport (Section 2.11). This
would result in more noise, dust, and emissions impacts on biota
in the area.
For the no action (Section 2.12) or postponement of action
(Section 2.13) alternatives: The former would leave upland
conditions as they are now. The latter would delay, but not
ultimately change, the impacts described for the proposed
action.
3.3.1.3 Mitigative Measures
Almost all of the upland habitats which would be affected by the
proposed mining and clay storage plans are of relatively low ecological
value and could be readily replaced during reclamation following mining
activities. Therefore, the primary mitigative measures which would be
applied are protection of undisturbed habitats or reduction of impacts
to important species that might occur in upland areas. Mitigation
would include:
Rapid reseeding of reclaimed areas to reduce erosion and
encourage topsoil development,
Specific plans to reclaim xeric and mesic hammocks.
Maintenance of vegetated migration routes for animals during
both mining and reclamation for enhancement of the distribution
of plant and animal species,
Spraying of roads to reduce fugitive dust,
Maintenance of retention dikes to preclude accidental waste or
slurry spills into terrestrial areas, and
Training of personnel to avoid disturbance of the gopher tor-
toise and indigo snake, or relocation of these species to
undisturbed areas.
3.3-8
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3.3.2 Wetlands and Aquatic Ecosystems
The two ecosystems of most importance on the MCC site from a
biological perspective are wetlands (swamps and marshes) and streams.
The distribution of these habitats in the study area is illustrated on
Figure 3.3-1, and the total acreages of wetlands on the site are listed
in Table 3.3-1.
3.3.2.1 Existing Conditions
Wetlands
Wetlands are the most valuable ecological resource on the site
because they serve as habitat for biota and also enhance local and
downstream water quality. There are presently 2,980 acres of wetlands
on the MCC property, or 20 percent of the total site area. Hardwood
swamps make up 490 acres, and fresh water marshes represent 2,490 acres
of the site wetlands. Floral and faunal characteristics of wetlands on
the site are described by habitat types. The information presented in
this section was derived from a review of the literature and from field
surveys conducted in April and August 1980 for vegetation and in April
and October 1980 for animals. More detailed information on sampling
methodologies and results is presented in TSD-II.
Hardwood Swamps
Hardwood swamps on the site, corresponding to the swamp range
designation of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (1958), comprise 490
acres, or about 3 percent, of the project area. These swamps vary from
small, isolated stands of 3 acres to one of 98 acres. Several are
either mixed hardwood swamps, dominated by deciduous trees, or bayheads
which are dominated by species of evergreen bay.
Overstory composition of the swamps on the site is variable, but
generally the wettest portions of the swamps are dominated by blackgum,
with red maple, swamp ash, and sweetbay occurring as subdominants. The
slightly drier edges of the swamps are characterized predominantly by
slash pine, pond pine, sweetgum, and American elm. The understory
3.3-9
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vegetation consists primarily of sweetbay, wax myrtle, red maple, but-
tonbush, and blackgum; shrubby growth is least abundant in the central
portions of the swamps where inundation is most frequent. The forest
floor is characterized by depressions interspersed with raised hummocks
of roots and vegetative debris. The more mesic herbaceous species
occupy the drier hammocks, and muck/peat soils support hydrophytic
emergent species within the hollows. Completely inundated areas sup-
port emergent and free-floating hydrophytes.
Hardwood swamps provide a greater habitat diversity than any other
community type on the site. Amphibians and reptiles dominate the lower
strata. Amphibians are represented by tree frogs, southern leopard
frogs, and dwarf salamanders. These species in turn are preyed on by
carnivores such as the eastern mud snake, Florida water snake, and the
cottonmouth water moccasin. Numerous small fish, such as mosquitofish
and mollies also occur in standing water bodies in the swamps. The
large deciduous trees in the swamps are used as nesting and feeding
habitats by a variety of birds such as flycatchers, wrens, thrushes,
vireos, warblers, and owls. Dry edges of swamps provide habitat for
raccoons, skunks, rabbits, other small mammals, and whitetail deer.
Marshes
Marshes occupy 2,490 acres or 17 percent of the MCC property.
They vary from isolated, shallow, temporary ponds to semi-permanent
water bodies closely contiguous with the native streams.
Four zonal communities have been observed in the marshes. A peri-
pheral marsh zone remains saturated to moist through much of the year
but is seldom flooded. This zone is dominated by shrubby vegetation
and live oak or, where overstory and understory vegetation are less
dense, by water pennywort, blue flag, and sedges. A second zone occurs
in areas where the soil is saturated or submerged to a depth of about
10 cm and is dominated by sand cordgrass or softrush, with arrowhead,
and false pimpernel as subdominants. A third marsh zone occurs in
areas characterized by 10 to 30 cm of standing water. Clumps of sand
3.3-10
-------
cordgrass are the most evident constituent, but species from the second
and fourth zones are also common. The fourth marsh zone occurs in
submerged areas characterized by about 30 to over 60 cm of standing
water. This portion of the marsh is dominated by an association of
maidencane and pickerelweed, although arrowroot is common. Species of
floating vegetation such as duckweed and floating hearts also occur;
submerged aquatic vegetation consists of bladderwort and spike rush.
Many of the small, shallow marshes on the site are typified by wet
prairie vegetation and do not provide the abundance of food and hiding
places of larger areas; therefore, wildlife usage of many of the small,
seasonal marshes is sporadic. These areas are occasionally used for
feeding and nesting by a variety of shorebirds, such as the greater
yellowlegs, common gallinule, and white ibis. Rice rats and cottontail
rabbits are also common. These small marshes also provide feeding and
nesting habitats for the Florida sandhill crane. A number of amphi-
bians and fish use the marshes that are commonly inundated and, during
high water, other aquatic vertebrates migrate into these areas from
adjacent streams.
Aquatic Ecosystems
The MCC site is drained by six small, tannin-stained (dark)
streams which flow generally in a north-south direction and eventually
empty into the Peace River (Figure 3.2-2). In addition to the natural
stream courses and their tributaries, much of the property is also
crossed by man-made channels. This channelization has served to adapt
the site for agricultural and cattle use either by draining excess
water from the property or by irrigating, depending on seasonal fluctu-
ations in rainfall.
Brushy and Oak Creeks are considered to be the most important
aquatic habitats on the site and are the only streams on the property
which have mean annual flows greater than 5 cfs (Figure 3.3-2). Flow
in these streams is usually very sluggish except during periods fol-
lowing heavy rainfall. The wet season (May through September) creates
3.3-11
-------
numerous areas of standing water throughout the site property. In the
dry season, many of the water bodies are dry for several months, and
most streams become intermittent.
Six sampling stations were established to provide an assessment of
characteristic aquatic habitats in Brushy and Oak Creeks. A sampling
program was conducted during April 1980 for all aquatic communities,
and a subsequent effort was undertaken in August 1980 for fish only. A
summary of the biological data collected during these survey periods is
presented in the following sections. More detailed information on the
aquatic communities of the MCC site is provided in TSD-II.
Phytoplankton - Phytoplankton are small, photoautotrophic algae
that move with the water currents. Phytoplankton densities were high
at all of the stations sampled, with green algae and diatoms the most
abundant groups collected. The diatoms were represented by such
species as Cyclotella, Melosira, Navicula, Nitzschia, and Pinnularia.
Among the the most common green algae were species of Chlorella,
Oedogonium, Scenedesmus, and Volvox.
Aquatic Macrophytes - The term "macrophyte" is used to define the
vascular hydrophytes and the larger attached algae which are part of
the periphyton. The major "forms" of macrophytes found in this study
were classified as emergent, floating-leaved, free-floating, and sub-
mergent.
The distribution of macrophytes in Brushy and Oak Creeks appeared
to be restricted primarily to areas where there was little canopy.
Where fresh water marshes were contiguous to streams, macrophytic
vegetation common to the marsh community was abundant along the stream
edges. Twenty species of aquatic macrophytes and shoreline vegetation
were associated with streams on the MCC site. Water hyacinth occurred
in great abundance in Oak Creek, reducing the quality and diversity of
this stream in comparison with Brushy Creek. Other species which were
common in Brushy and Oak Creeks were alligator weed, marsh purslane,
parrot's-feather, and pickerel weed.
3.3-12
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Zooplankton - Zooplankton are small, aquatic animals that cannot
move against a current and, therefore, depend primarily upon water flow
for their distribution. Most Zooplankton are filter feeders, removing
particulate matter from the water. The zooplankton are a crucial link
in the food web between phytoplankton and most other consumers.
The zooplankton species enumerated from samples on Brushy and Oak
Creeks were copepods, rotifers, and cladocerans. Rotifers and copepods
comprised approximately 96 percent of the total zooplankton community
identified from both creeks even though they were present in low
numbers. Although cladocerans were observed in all samples, they were
never a major segment of the zooplankton community. Among the rotifers
which were most frequently collected during the present investigation
were: Euchlanis, Lecane luna, Monostyla bulla, Platyias, Polyarthra,
and Testudinella. Alona guttata was the only cladoceran species which
was identified in all of the samples.
Benthic Macroinvertebrates - Benthic macroinvertebrates are bottom
dwelling organisms which live all or part of their life cycle in or
upon various underwater substrates. These organisms are important in
aquatic ecosystems because of the diverse trophic levels they occupy.
They also represent an important food source for fish and include
species of commercial and recreational importance.
Forty-eight genera of benthic invertebrates representing 22
families were identified in samples collected from Brushy and Oak
Creeks. The density of the benthic organisms collected ranged from
1,614/m^ to 8,137/m^. The dominant benthic organisms in both
creeks were oligochaetes, or segmented worms, which comprised approxi-
mately 57 percent of the benthos enumerated. The only other taxonomic
groups of benthic organisms having average densities which exceeded 10
percent of the benthos from all sampling locations were: midge flies,
17 percent at Brushy Creek and 15 percent at Oak Creek; and fingernail
clams, 29 percent at Oak Creek.
3.3-13
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Most of the oligochaetes collected in samples from Brushy and Oak
Creeks were species of Limnodrilus and immature tubificids. Species of
Polypedilum and Tanytarsus were the most common midges taken from
Brushy and Oak Creeks. Chironomus was also very abundant in Oak Creek,
representing 29 percent of the midges enumerated. Chironomus was also
collected from Brushy Creek, but in much lower densities. Fingernail
clams were collected at all sampling stations but were more abundant in
Oak Creek than in Brushy Creek.
Fish - Fish are often the most visible and important aquatic
organisms from a recreational and aesthetic point of view. Fish are
the main vehicle for transforming energy of the aquatic ecosystem into
a form available for human use through recreational fishing. In addi-
tion, smaller species of fish, although not directly utilized by man,
harvest the plankton and benthic organisms of the area and, in turn,
become food sources for larger fish that are directly utilized by man.
Twenty-nine species of fish (excluding an unidentified immature
sunfish) representing 11 families were collected from the sampling
stations on the site. All of the species collected are common in the
site area (CF Mining Corporation, 1976 and USEPA, 1978).
In Brushy Creek, 26 species of fish in addition to an unidenti-
fied, immature sunfish, were collected. These species represented 10
native families, including gar, bowfin, minnows, sucker, catfish, top-
minnows, livebearers, silversides, sunfish, perches, and one non-native
family, walking catfish. In Oak Creek, 19 species of fish were col-
lected. These species represented eight families, including the gars,
bowfin, suckers, catfish, topminnows, silversides, sunfish, perches,
and walking catfish. The mosquitofish and the least killifish were the
most abundant species collected from Oak and Brushy Creeks.
Summary
The majority of the wetlands on the MCC property are relatively
small, isolated systems which are infrequently contiguous to other
3.3-14
-------
water bodies (Figure 3.3-1). The few large wetlands on the property
are valuable primarily as diverse habitat for wildlife, particularly
when considered together with adjacent, non-wetland systems, such as
mesic forests. Some of these systems afford important refuges for
wildlife and can be used temporarily by species displaced during mining
activities. These areas would also provide important plant and animal
seed sources during reclamation efforts. The majority of the study
area, however, has been highly disturbed by societal activities, such
as drainage or irrigation canals and channelization of streams. In
addition, although both Brushy and Oak Creeks afford habitat for many
aquatic species, man-made modifications in these streams, highly
fluctuating water levels, and the high organic loading from macrophytes
in these water bodies, particularly in Oak Creek, have resulted in
reduced water quality and habitat value.
3.3.2.2 Environmental Impacts
MCC's Proposed Action
Wetlands - The proposed mining and clay storage plan would
directly affect 2,540 acres of existing fresh water swamps and marshes
(Table 3.3-1) and approximately 4 miles of 5 cfs stream beds (Table
3.3-2). Based on the criteria developed in the Central Florida
Phosphate Industry Areawide Impact Statement (USEPA, 1978), the loss of
some of these land/water interface systems could result in significant
declines in biota, changes in hydrology, and/or deterioration of water
quality. The diverse fauna, particularly birds, which use the site
would be reduced in number, and migrants which attempted to return to
undisturbed habitats would stress those communities which were near
carrying capacity. This would result in a general decrease in animal
population density throughout the site. Most of these impacts, how-
ever, should be reversible. Successful reclamation and wetlands
management would allow recovery of these populations as" species from
undisturbed habitats migrate into newly developing, unoccupied niches
suitable for their reproduction.
3.3-15
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Indirect effects of mining activities would produce additional
stresses upon the site's plant and animal communities. The most impor-
tant indirect impacts would be those associated with pit dewatering,
which could lower the water table of adjacent ecosystems not scheduled
for mining and simulate conditions of prolonged natural drought. If
rainfall were subnormal during the growing season, sensitive vegetation
would be stressed, and densities of the animal populations which use
the affected wetland habitats would be reduced. However, drought con-
ditions occur naturally about every 20 years without long-term losses
of native vegetation or wildlife.
As a result of dewatering, the potential for swamp fires would
increase, particularly, during periods of low rainfall. Such fires
would not have appreciable, long-term effects except where hardwoods
were destroyed. The possibility of a widespread fire would be remote
since fire would probably not to spread across roads, mining pits, or
other clearings.
Soil erosion into wetlands is another indirect impact which could
occur as a result of vegetation, removal by mining and piling of over-
burden in steep spoil banks. However, since the mined areas would be
below grade, and perimeter dikes would be built around the actively
mined areas, most of the runoff should be contained in the mine pits.
Pipelines, transmission lines, roads, and other structures that
might be built across wetlands would produce both short and long-term
disturbances. However, most wetland communities have the capacity to
become re-established in those areas where peaty acid substrates and
suitable hydroperiods are maintained.
Aquatic Ecosystems - Approximately 4 miles of streams with
greater than 5 cfs mean annual flow, including about 1.3 miles of
Brushy Creek and 2.9 miles of Oak Creek, would be mined under the pro-
posed mining plan (Table 3.3-2). Large segmentjs of these habitats have
already been significantly modified through channelizing and
straightening. The diversion of stream flow into new channels prior to
3.3-16
-------
mining of each stream would enable relocation of the majority of fish
and mobile benthic forms, but non-mobile benthic forms would be lost.
Some loss of fish and benthos would occur due to isolation in stream
pockets created after stream flow diversion. The successful recovery
of aquatic communities within diverted sections of the streams would
depend primarily upon physical characteristics of stream topography,
the development of instream vegetation, and colonization of the stream
by benthic invertebrates.
Dewatering activities associated with mining would also affect the
existing aquatic biota in the streams on the site by lowering the adja-
cent water table. In areas where extreme reduction of stream volume
occurred, the water bodies could become segmented into isolated pools,
causing a reduction in population densities. The decreased stream flow
would also reduce the transport of benthos and organic materials to
downstream systems.
Some suspended solids would be transported in the runoff water to
the aquatic habitats on the site. Erosion would result in some short-
term effects such as: reduction of light penetration and photo-
synthesis, smothering of benthic organisms, destruction of spawning
areas, and abrasion and clogging of fish gills (Cairns and others,
1972). Although the effects of erosion could be reversed following
abatement, all components of the aquatic community could be altered by
increased sedimentation (Muncy and others, 1979).
After the forest canopy adjacent to site streams is opened, more
sunlight would reach the surface of the streams, resulting in higher
temperatures and increased productivity of vegetation. It is unlikely
that the slight increase in temperature from increased insolation would
adversely affect the species presently occurring in Brushy or Oak
Creeks, although high temperatures in isolated pools might stress some
species. Additional macrophytic development would provide shelter,
substrate, and foraging areas for various aquatic organisms. In areas
where excessive macrophytic growth occurred, the death and decompositon
of these plants might result in decreases in dissolved oxygen, with
3.3-17
-------
concomitant losses of oxygen-sensitive organisms. As trees and other
plants begin growing along the stream banks following reclamation
activities, most of the changes caused by vegetation removal would be
reversed.
The proposed effluent discharge into Oak Creek from the water
recirculating system might contain a number of substances such as clay
wastes, phosphate, and flotation reagents. The impact of each pol-
lutant would vary, but the most probable impacts would occur due to
increased suspended solids, oil and grease, and trace concentrations of
amines and other organics used in phosphate beneficiation. Although
prolonged discharges could reduce the density and diversity of stream
organisms, the expected infrequent discharges primarily during high
flow conditions should have only short-term impacts. These wastes
would probably enhance populations of the tolerant species now
present.
Time-Phased Impacts - The proposed mining, clay storage, and
reclamation activities would occur over a period of approximately 44
years. As mining proceeds, many of the mined-out areas would be
utilized for clay storage and subsequent reclamation so that ecosystems
would vary over the project life. To evaluate these events, a series
of overlays was developed for each four-year period during the project
life, indicating the areas of wetlands and 5 cfs streams affected by
mining, clay storage, and/or reclamation. The results of a tabulation
of wetlands status during each of these time periods are shown in
Table 3.3-2 and Figure 2.10-8. Approximately 14 percent of all wet-
lands to be affected by the MCC project would be lost during the first
four years as a result of mining and clay storage activities; in addi-
tion, 0.25 miles of 5 cfs stream bed in Oak Creek would be lost during
this same period. These habitats would be replaced during the later
years of the project, with development of wetlands and stream channels
in some areas beginning in the early years of mining activity. Other
reclamation activities would follow capping of waste disposal areas.
3.3-18
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Figure 2.10-8 summarizes the cumulative status of wetlands lost and the
development of reclaimed wetlands over the duration of the project.
Alternatives
Most of the alternatives to the proposed action (Section 2.0)
would generally result in impacts to wetlands and aquatic communities
similar to those anticipated to occur as a result of the proposed
action. Alternatives that would modify impacts to these wetlands and
aquatic systems include those that are discussed for upland communities
(Section 3.3.1.2). In addition, the selection of an alternative wet-
lands preservation scheme (Section 2.10) that would protect habitats
other than, or in addition to, those to be protected by the proposed
action would result in additional preservation of habitat (Table
2.10-1). Functional values that can be attributed to each preservation
alternative are:
0 Strict application of USEPA Areawide Categories (Figure 2.10-2)-
Wetlands with relatively low hydrologic or habitat functions
would be preserved.
0 Site-specific application of USEPA Areawide Categories (Figure
2.10-5) - Wetlands of high habitat function but relatively low
hydrological function would be preserved.
0 Wetlands Systems Categories (Figure 2.10-6) - Broad preservation
of wetlands and mesic (upland) communities which have very high
habitat value but relatively low hydrologic function.
3.3.2.3 Mitigative Measures
Wetlands and aquatic systems which would be protected from mining
activities would require the application of mitigative measures to pre-
clude loss of ecosystem functions. In addition, reasonable mitigation
should be employed to reduce deterioration of other wetlands systems
until they were mined or used for waste storage activities. These
measures would maximize the number of seed sources available for recla-
mation activities and reduce the effort required to transport wetland
3.3-19
-------
soils and innoculum species from offsite. With the exception of those
designed for the protection of xeric species (Section 3/3.1.3), the
mitigative measures discussed for upland habitats also apply to wet-
lands communities. Additional mitigative measures which are planned to
be undertaken are as follows:
Wetlands planned for preservation would be protected by a
non-mineable buffer zone averaging approximately 250 feet in
width to reduce the effects of noise, dust, erosion, and water
drawdown on wetland species.
During the mining phases where water drawdown could occur, a
water-filled rim ditch would be placed adjacent to the protected
wetlands to provide a hydraulic gradient and maintain normal
ground water levels.
Along those sections of streams which would be mined, mine cuts
would first be made only along one side of the stream. Stream
bed construction, reclamation, and rerouting would be completed
prior to mining in the original, primary stream bed.
Erosion protection devices, such as hay bales and screens, would
be employed to protect streams and non-mined wetlands from ero-
sion impacts.
Where practical, surface mulch removed from wetlands to be mined
would be transferred into wetland reclamation areas to enhance
the rate of recovery of functional wetlands.
Approximately 440 acres of wetlands would be protected from
development throughout the mine life. These areas would provide habi-
tat for species displaced from other areas and additional plant and
animal seed sources for reclamation activities.
3.3.3 Threatened or -Endangered Species
3.3.3.1 Existing Conditions
The U.S. Department of Interior Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS)
and the Florida Committee on Rare and Endangered Plants and Animals
3.3-20
-------
(FCREPA) have published lists of species which are of concern due to
their decreasing numbers. The species which have been listed by these
agencies and which either have been observed or may occur on the site
are discussed in this section.
Vegetation
None of the species which are included as endangered or threatened
by the FWS (1980) was observed in the MCC study area. Harper's beauty
(Harperocallis flava) and Chapman's rhododendron (Rhododendron
chapmanii) are the only two species known to occur in Florida, and
their current ranges are limited to the panhandle. Hence, the likeli-
hood that either species occurs on the site is extremely low.
The FCREPA has listed 11 species (Pritchard, 1978), which have
been discussed in detail in the ADA/DRI (MCC, 1977), including their
current status and likelihood of occurrence in the study area. Spoon-
flower (Peltandra sagittifolia) which the ADA/DRI classified as a rare
plant with a moderate chance of occurrence on the site was the only
species on the Florida list observed on the site during this study.
This population is a component of the swamp community located in Sec-
tion 28 West. It is probable that it occurs in other parts of the pro-
perty as well since this habitat type is common throughout the study
area.
Animals
Ten federally listed vertebrate species occur or may occur on the
site, while 40 vertebrates listed as threatened, endangered, of special
concern, or of undetermined population status by the State of Florida
may also occur (Table 3.3-3). Throughout the course of the field ef-
forts, particular emphasis was placed on locating species listed by
either of these agencies. The presence of 15 state or federally pro-
tected species is presently documented for the MCC site (Table 3.3-3).
3.3-21
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3.3.3.2 Environmental Impacts
Proposed Action
Table 3.3-3 indicates the impacts from project activities on
species which are or may be present on the MCC site and are listed by
federal or state agencies as threatened, endangered, or otherwise of
special status. Of the species known to be present on the site,
several may incur long-term losses, while all would be affected for
short periods by temporary loss of habitat and disturbance from mining
activities.
Alternatives
The alternatives to the proposed action that modify impacts on
terrestrial, wetland, or aquatic ecosystems (Sections 3.3.1.4 and
3.3.2.4) would also affect threatened or endangered species that might
use these ecosystems in a similar manner. Thus, protection of impor-
tant water-dependent habitats from drawdown impacts; mining of habitats
that would require many years to reclaim only after successful develop-
ment of replacement areas; and removal or avoidance of important
species should adequately protect important species.
3.3.3.3 Mitigative Measures
The primary habitats on the MCC site that support important
species are the xeric hammocks in the northwest areas of the site (Sec-
tions 22W, 27W, and 28W); marshes, such as those in Sections 4, 32, and
29; forested wetlands, such as in Section 29, and forested areas ad-
jacent to southern portions of Brushy Creek. Most of the species in
these habitats are mobile and would easily avoid mining activities so
that minimal mitigative efforts would be necessary. However, some
species, such as the indigo snake and gopher tortoise, are less effec-
tive in avoiding these disturbances. A' preliminary survey of xeric
habitats would be conducted to remove these species. Workers would be
alterted to avoid direct destruction of individuals observed during
construction activities.
3.3-22
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TABLE 3.3-1
PRESENT ACREAGES OF VEGETATIVE COMMUNITIES AND ACREAGES
AFFECTED BY PROPOSED MINING, CLAY STORAGE, AND/OR RECLAMATION PLANS
Present Acres Acres
Acreages3 Undisturbed13 Affectedc
Upland Communities
Pasture 5,040 1,405 3,635
Citrus grove 28 0 28
Palmetto range/Pine flatwoods 6,002 1,932 4,070
Mesic hammock 770 333 437
Xeric hammock 30 18 12
Subtotal 11,870 3,688 8,182
Wetland Communities
Hardwood swamp 490 35 455
Fresh water marsh 2,490 405 2,085
Subtotal 2,980 440 2,540
TOTAL 14,850 4,128 10,722
aSource: Winchester, 1980.
number of acres given are to be preserved from
mining and clay storage activities.
clncludes areas affected by mining or clay storage.
-------
TABLE 3.3-2
TIME-PHASED PROGRESSION OF WETLANDS LOST AND STREAMS AFFECTED BY PROPOSED
MINING AND CLAY STORAGE PLANS AND GAINS OF WETLANDS BY PROPOSED RECLAMATION PLAN
Marsh3
Years
1-4
5-8
9-12
13-16
17-20
21-24
25-28
29-32
33-36
37-40
Totals
Mining
212
178
173
89
317
196
149
300
-
-
1,614.
Clay
Storage
98
100
42
63
69
45
54
-
-
-
471
Reclaimed0
-
-
112
-
12
201
216
719
158
202
1,620
Mining
25
41
95
30
105
56
28
6
-
-
386
Swamp
Clay
Storage
11
6
34
-
17
1
-
-
-
_
69
a
Reclaimed0
-
-
-
-
-
32
25
76
165
92
390
Cumulative
Total Acres
Lost
346
671
1,015
1,197
1,705
2,003
2,234
2,540
2,540
2,540
2,540
Reclaimed
-
-
112
112
124
357
598
1,393
1,716
2,010
2,010
5 cfs Streams^
Oak Brushy
0.25
-
-
-
1.0
0.5
0.5 0.75
1.1
-
.
2.85 1.25
aNumbers represent approximate acres of wetlands to be lost by mining or clay storage or to be
gained by reclamation.
Numbers represent approximate miles of stream bed affected. Prior to mining, new stream beds will
be established to replace sections lost.
Represents approximate time period when reclamation is to begin. Length of time required for
successful reclamation will depend on type and location of reclaimed wetland.
-------
Common Name Status3
Mamma Is
Round-tailed muskrat SC
Sherman's fox squirrel T
Florida black bear T
Florida mouse T
Birds
Cooper's hawk
Audubon's caracara
Common egret
Snowy egret
White Ibis
Limpkin
Florida scrub jay
SC
T
SC
SC
SC
SC
T
TABLE 3.3-3
POTENTIAL IMPACTS ON THREATENED OR ENDANGERED SPECIES
Page 1 of 2
Likelihood of
Occurrence Degree of Short-Term Impact Degree of Long-Term Impact
High High: disruption of marsh
habitat.
Present High: disruption and loss
of habitat.
High High: disruption and loss
of habitat.
High High: disruption and loss
of habitat.
Present Moderate: disruption and
loss of habitat.
High High: habitat loss and
disruption.
Present Moderate: habitat loss.
Present Moderate: habitat loss.
Present Moderate: habitat loss.
High Moderate: habitat loss.
Present High: all habitat eliminated.
Low: reestab I i shment of marshes.
Moderate: limited reestablishment
of habitat.
High: no planned reestabl i shment of
habitat. Limited ability to re-
colonize.
High: no planned reestabIishment of
habitat. Very limited ability to
recolon ize.
Low: some habitat restored, good
recolonizing ability.
Moderate: some habitat restored
Species has somewhat Iimited
recolonizing ability.
Low: habitat restored.
Low: habitat restored.
Low: habitat restored.
Low: habitat restored.
High: no habitat restored. Species
has limited recolonizing ability.
Little blue heron
SC
Present
Moderate: habitat loss.
Low: habitat restored.
-------
TABLE 3.3-3 (Continued)
Common Name Status
Birds (continued)
Florida sandhill crane App. II, T
Louisiana heron
Least bittern
Black-crowned night heron
Glossy ibis
Reptiles and Amphibians
American alligator
Eastern indigo snake
Gopher tortoise App. II, T
Florida gopher frog
LI ke11 hood of
Occurrence Degree of Short-Term Impact
SC
sc •
SC
SC
Th, SC
'h, T, SC
Present
Present
Present
Present
Present
Present
Present High: disruption and habitat
loss.
Low: habitat loss.
Moderate: habitat loss.
Moderate: habitat loss.
Moderate: habitat loss.
Moderate: habitat loss and
disruption.
High: habitat loss and
di sruption.
Present High: habitat loss and
disruption.
High High: habitat loss and
disruption.
Status - U.S. Department of Interior, Fish and Wildlife Service.
Th = Threatened
App. II = Species which may be threatened with extinction unless trade
is regulated.
Status - Florida Committee on Rare and Endangered Plants and Animals.
T = Threatened
SC = Species of special concern
Page 2 of 2
Degree of Long-Term Impact
Moderate: some habitat restored.
Low: habitat restored.
Low: habitat restored.
Low: habitat restored.
Low: habitat restored.
Low: habitat restored.
High: no planned habitat
restoration. Species has limited
recolonizing ability.
High: no planned habitat recovery.
Species has limited recolonizing
ability.
High.: no planned habitat recovery.
Species has limited recolonizing
ability.
-------
I'-: .-| PMTURI
liHH CITRUS QROVI
| I PALMTTO RAWt
| | If MC M»««IOC»
ft^'J HIM HMIIIOCK
FRUH muan
UHAN • MOUSTIUU.
ICALE IN MILit
SOURCE: HCC. 1977
Figure 3.3-1. Vegetation Map of MCC Property.
-------
NOTE:
INDICATES 5cfs AVERAGE ANNUAL
FLOW DOWNSTREAM
ALL OF BRUSHY CREEK EXCEEDS
Scfs AVERAGE ANNUAL FLOW.
SOURCE: HCC, 1977
Firmvo 1 1-9 MCr Prnnprtv
-------
REFERENCES
Cairns, J. Jr., 6. R. Lanza, and B.C. Parker, 1972. Pollution related
structural and functional changes in aquatic communities with em-
phasis on freshwater algae and protozoa. Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci.,
Philadelphia, 124(5): 79-127.
CF Mining Corporation, 1976. Application for development approval, CF
Mining Corporation, Hardee phosphate complex, a development of
regional impact. Report prepared by Dames & Moore.
Mississippi Chemical Corporation, 1977. Application for development
approval for development of regional impact. Report prepared by
Environmental Sciences & Engineering, Inc., Gainesville, Florida.
For submittal to Florida Department of Environmental Regulation.
Muncy, R. J., 6. J. Atchison, R.V. Bulkley, B.W. Menzel, L.G. Perry,
and R.C. Summerfelt, 1979. Effects of suspended solids and sedi-
ment on reproduction and early life of warmwater fishes: A
review. EPA-600/3-79-042, Corvallis, Oregon, 101 pp.
Pritchard, Peter C.H., ed., 1978. Rare and endangered biota of
Florida, vol. 1-4. University Presses of Florida, Gainesville.
U.S. Department of Agriculture, Soil Conservation Service, 1958. Soil
survey of Manatee County, Florida. By Caldwell, R.E. and others,
Series 1947, No. 8.
U.S. Department of Interior Fish and Wildlife Service, May 20, 1980.
Federal Register. Vol. 45, No. 99. Rules and regulations,
endangered and threatened plants and animals.
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, 1976. Diagnosing vegetation
injury caused by air pollution. Prepared by: Applied Science
Associates, Inc.
, 1978. Central Florida phosphate industry areawide impact
statement.
Winchester, Brian, 1980. CH2M Hill, Gainesville, Florida, personal
communication.
-------
THIS PAGE LEFT BLANK INTENTIONALLY
-------
3.4 AIR RESOURCES
3.4.1 C1imatology
Central Florida lies in a subtropical climatic zone where weather
conditions are greatly influenced both by latitude and by the relative-
ly warm coastal waters which surround the state. Chief characteristics
of this climate are a temperature-humidity regime which is typically
warm and moist with infrequent interruptions of cold air in winter and
a generally distinctive division of the year into relatively dry and
wet seasons.
Although there is no single prevailing wind direction throughout
the year, winds from the northeast and east tend to predominate during
all seasons. Southerly winds are also common during summer months, as
are westerly winds in winter and spring. These patterns are based on
observations made over a 20-year period at Lakeland, Florida, the
nearest weather station from which wind data are available (Lakeland
National Weather Service Office, 1975). The uniform terrain charac-
teristic of this section of Florida decreases the likelihood of extreme
differences in wind conditions between one point and another. There-
fore, Lakeland data are considered representative of expected condi-
tions at the Hardee County site. The average wind speed is 6.9 mph,
based on a 12-year period of record (U.S. Department of Commerce,
1979).
Rainfall in the vicinity of the site, although generally abundant,
shows wide variations from month-to-month and from year-to-year. Table
3.4-1 contains a record of rainfall measurements made near Wauchula,
Florida, over a period of 45 years. Monthly precipitation at Wauchula
has varied from zero to over 18 inches. The range of annual rainfall
amounts is from 37 inches to 83 inches. However, annual rainfall
totals in 13 of the last 17 years (through 1977) have been below the
annual climatological normal of 54.66 inches; the annual mean for this
17-year period is 50.02 inches.
3.4-1
-------
As would be expected for a humid, low-latitude locale, tempera-
tures remain warm throughout most of the year. The mean annual
temperature is 72.4°F, based on the 1941-1970 period of record (USDC,
1973). January has the lowest mean monthly temperature, 61.8°F, while
August has the highest mean monthly temperature, 81.6°F. Extreme tem-
peratures range from a low of 22°F to a high of 104°F, based on the
1933-1960 period of record (U.S Department of Commerce, 1955 and
1964).
Since required meteorological measurement data are not available
from points in the immediate vicinity of the Hardee County site, air
quality modeling must be based on .representative regional meteorologi-
cal data. The air quality modeling effort used surface and upper air
meteorological data taken at the National Weather Service Station at
Tampa, Florida during the 5-year period 1970 to 1974. These data are
described in more detail in TSD-III, and in Environmental Science and
Engineering, Inc., 1981.
3.4.2 Ambient Air Quality
3.4.2.1 Existing Conditions
There are six "criteria" air pollutants for which national ambient
air quality standards (NAAQS) have been established: particulate mat-
ter (PM), sulfur dioxide (S02), nitrogen dioxide (N02), ozone
(03), carbon monoxide (CO), and lead (Pb). The State of Florida also
has ambient air quality standards (FAAQS), which are more stringent for
some pollutants than the NAAQS. The pertinent NAAQS and FAAQS are
presented in Table 3.4-2. The proposed MCC phosphate project will not
emit significant quantities of CO, Pb, or volatile organic compounds
(the chemical precursors of atmospheric 03), so that the standards
for these pollutants are not considered in this section.
In the vicinity of the MCC site, the nearest nonattainment areas
for the NAAQS for PM, S02, and N02 are as follows:
PM - The nearest nonattainment area for PM, in which the secondary
NAAQS are not met, is described as "that portion of Hillsborough
3.4-2
-------
County which falls within the area of a circle having a center-
point at the intersection of US 41 and State Road 60 and a radius
of 12 km" (USEPA, 1978a). The boundary of this nonattainment area
is approximately 60 km to the northwest of the MCC site.
S02 - The nearest nonattainment area for S02, in which the
primary NAAQS are not met, is described as "the northwest corner
of Pinellas County." This area is approximately 100 km to the
northwest of the MCC site.
N02 - The entire State of Florida is unclassified with respect
to the N02 NAAQS.
Existing ambient concentrations of PM, SOg, and fluorides in the
vicinity of the MCC phosphate project were assessed from a substantial
body of monitoring data for these pollutants in the area. The location
of the monitors is shown on Figure 3.4-1, and the monitoring data are
summarized in detail in TSD-III. A summary of the highest observed
concentrations of each pollutant is presented in Table 3.4-3.
Because the standards for the short-term averaging periods are
stated in terms of values which are not to be exceeded more than once
per year, the observed concentrations that should be compared to the
standards are the highest second highest values measured at any of the
reporting monitors. A comparison of Tables 3.4-2 and 3.4-3 indicates
that existing levels of PM and S02 are well below federal or state
air quality standards. The closest approach to a standard is the ob-
served 24-hour PM second highest concentration of 110 yg/m3, which is
73 percent of the pertinent FAAQS of 150 pg/m3.
The State of Florida has no ambient standards for fluorides.
State emission limiting standards exist for fluorides emitted from
phosphate processing plants, but phosphate rock dryers are explicitly
excluded from the standards (Florida Air Pollution Rules (FAPR),
17-2.05(6), Table II, Item C). Both phosphate rock dryers and benefi-
ciation plants would fall under Item C(l)(i) of FAPR 17-2.05(6) Table
II, which requires that all "[phosphate processing] plants, plant
3.4-3
-------
sections or unit operations and auxiliary equipment not listed else-
where in Item C of the table" must comply with BACT provisions, as
given in FAPR 17-2.03(1).
Approximately 3 percent of the particulate matter to be emitted by
the MCC phosphate project will be fluorides. The fluoride measurements
presented in Table 3.4-3 represent a measure of background ambient
fluoride concentrations to which concentrations due to emissions from
the proposed MCC phosphate project can be added. However, it is not
possible to translate ambient fluoride concentrations into vegetative
fluoride loadings or into fluoride dosage to cattle and other grazing
animals.
Ambient monitoring data for NOg are not available for the vicin-
ity of the proposed MCC phosphate project. However, high concentra-
tions are primarily associated with urban areas since the primary
sources of N02 are automobiles and major stationary sources such as
large power plants. The nearest large power plant to the MCC site is
the Florida Power & Light Company Parrish plant, located approximately
44 km to the west northwest. Given the rural character of the MCC site
and the absence of nearby large stationary sources, it is reasonable to
estimate an N02 background concentration of approximately 0.01 parts
per million (20 yg/m3) (USEPA, 1978b) for the area.
3.4.2.2 Environmental Impacts
Rock Dryer at Ona (Proposed by MCC)
Methodology - Estimated atmospheric emissions from the proposed
MCC complex are great enough to require assessment of compliance with
prevention of significant deterioration (PSD) increments for sulfur
dioxide (S02) and particulate matter (PM), and with National Ambient
Air Quality Standards (NAAQS). Compliance with these requirements has
been assessed through the use of USEPA-approved computer modeling
techniques. Compliance with Ambient Air Quality Standards (AAQS),
national and State of Florida, was assessed by superimposing modeling
results on ambient air quality measurement data. The monitoring
3.4-4
-------
measurements were used to represent ambient air pollutant background
conditions.
A discussion of the computer models used in the analysis of air
quality effects is given in the Technical Support Document (TSD-III).
The computer dispersion models were run using maximum allowable emis-
sion rates for all sources. Emissions from sources with no applicable
limiting regulation were calculated at maximum production capacity,
reflective of maximum emissions. These analyses included the effects
of interaction between pollutants released by the proposed MCC plant
and other major sources in the area.
Emissions - The air pollutant-emitting facilities considered are a
phosphate rock dryer, two small boilers, fuel combustion in mining
equipment, a storage silo facility, dry rock loadout stations, and
associated conveying operations. Particulate matter (dust) emissions
from the fluid bed dryer and the dry rock silos would be controlled by
wet scrubbers. Dust emissions generated by transferring stored rock
via conveyor belts to the loadout stations would be controlled by a
venturi scrubber.
BACT for all affected pollutants would be met by the use of ap-
propriate control techniques and established quality control procedures
for the operation of the proposed dryer, associated storage and trans-
fer operations. The estimated atmospheric emissions from the above
operations (after implementation of appropriate air quality control
systems) are listed in Table 3.4-4; estimated emissions before imple-
mentation of air quality control systems are provided in Table 3.4-5.
Effects on Ambient Air Quality Standards - This section presents
the expected impacts of the MCC complex on air quality during plant
operation only. Pollutant emissions during site preparation and con-
struction would have only a minor short-term effect on air quality.
Emissions from mining and transportation activities were also not in-
cluded in the modeling analyses as the effects would be small in
3.4-5
-------
comparison to the point sources (the two small boilers, the phosphate
rock dryer, and the four scrubbers).
Table 3.4-6 presents the calculated highest, second-highest
ground-level pollutant concentrations (maximum, in the case of annual
average) during plant operation, the representative ambient background
concentrations, and the State of Florida standards for comparison. The
highest, second highest concentrations are given for short-term concen-
trations because the limits can be exceeded once per year at each
receptor.
The maximum pollutant concentrations in Table 3.4-6, determined by
summing the maximum calculated and the ambient background concentra-
tions, were all below applicable AAQS. A hydrocarbon analysis was not
performed since the proposed MCC complex would not be a major source of
hydrocarbons, and the hydrocarbon standard is only a guide for as-
sessing attainment of the ozone AAQS.
Fluorides are another pollutant of concern. Currently, there are
no fluoride national or state AAQS, nor are there any emission limita-
tion standards for fluorides emitted from the proposed MCC facility.
The state regulations do require that the best available control
technique (BACT) for fluorides emission control be used at the proposed
facility. As discussed in TSD-III, neither gaseous fluoride emission
nor particulate fluoride deposition is expected to be significant. The
maximum estimated concentrations of gaseous fluoride due to the pro-
posed facility operation were 0.0008 ug/m3 and 0.005 yg/m3, respec-
tively, for the annual and the 24-hour averaging times. The maximum
annual average particulate fluoride deposition was calculated to be
less than 1.5 x 10~3 g/m2, and the maximum 24-hour deposition was
calculated as 1.2 x 10"5 g/m3.
3.4-6
-------
Effects on Prevention of Significant Deterioration (PSD) Increments
The estimated maximum increment consumption of the proposed phosphate
rock processing complex is based upon maximum annual and highest,
second-highest short-term calculated concentrations. Since there are
no PSD increment limits for N02 or CO, only SC>2 and PM concentra-
tions must be demonstrated to fall within the PSD increment limits.
Table 3.4-7 sets forth these increment limits together with maximum
calculated concentrations resulting from MCC's proposed action and
interacting sources for comparison.
Based upon the modeling results, the FPL Manatee, IMC, and AGRICO
sources interact with MCC to produce relatively small maximum concen-
trations in the affected area as presented in Table 3.4-8. The com-
bined concentrations produced by the other sources interacting with MCC
is less than the projected maximum increment consumption by the MCC
complex alone.
The Chassahowitzka Class I area is located approximately 140 km
from the MCC complex. Modeling results presented in the PSD indicate
that TSP and S02 concentrations resulting from the proposed MCC
operations would be below significant impact levels for this area.
Also, there should not be a significant impact on the Pinellas
S02 and Tampa TSP nonattainment areas. These areas are approximately
100 and 60 km away, respectively.
•
Additional Impacts - Impacts on soils and vegetation from air
pollutants associated with the proposed phosphate rock processing
operations are expected to be of minor significance. As was presented
in Table 3.4-6, the projected highest, second-highest 3-hour S0£
concentration of 315 ug/m3 and the annual mean concentration of
10 yg/m3 are well below levels generally reported for damage to
sensitive plant species. Particulate matter is generally considered to
have relatively unimportant effects on vegetation. However, parti -
culates from the MCC complex may contain about 1 1/2 to 3 percent
fluorides. Since background levels of PM are low in the vicinity of
3.4-7
-------
MCC's proposed operations and the projected impact levels due to opera-
tions are less than the background, it is expected that no significant
fluoride impact on vegetation will occur as a result of the predicted
increase in emissions.
No effect on plants or soils is expected from the low annual con-
centrations (1 ug/m3) of N02 predicted to occur due to the proposed
complex.
The proposed MCC source is not expected to significantly impair
the visibility in the immediate area of the action, in the nearest PSD
Class I area or in the nearest nonattainment areas. During the con-
struction phase there would be a small transient impact on the local
visibility due to fugitive dust raised by construction activity.
jummary - The proposed mining operation would result in a minor
degradation of air quality in the vicinity of the mine site as a result
of:
1. Combustion emissions associated with the -operation of the
phosphate rock dryer and the boilers at the site; and
2. Fugitive dust (particulate matter) associated with the rock
dryer, boilers, scrubbers, transfer and handling of the
phosphate rock and vehicular movement.
Based upon the atmospheric dispersion modeling results using
worst-case meteorological conditions, 100 percent load conditions, and
maximum allowable emissions from all MCC's operations including inter-
acting sources, it is predicted that the allowable Class II PSD incre-
ments would not be exceeded as a result of the proposed MCC phosphate
rock mining/processing operation. Also, no existing ambient air
quality standard is expected to be exceeded, and no existing designated
nonattainment areas would be significantly affected by this action. No
significant impacts are expected upon soils, vegetation, and visibility
in the area of the MCC plant.
3.4-8
-------
The proposed MCC phosphate rock processing complex is expected to
comply with all state and Federal PSD and air quality regulations. No
NSPS would apply, but appropriate control techniques (generally BACT)
would be used to control emissions.
Alternatives
Mining Methods - The proposed action would use an electrically-
powered dragline to work the mine face. Alternatives considered are
the use of a dredge or a bucket wheel excavator (BWE). The dredge
would necessarily be diesel-powered, thereby involving increased ex-
haust emissions to the atmosphere. Because the dredge would work in a
flooded mine pit, it would cause fewer emissions of fugitive dust than
would the dragline. An electrically-powered BWE would apparently not
cause atmospheric emissions significantly different from those gener-
ated by the dragline, but increased diesel exhaust emissions would
occur if the BWE were diesel-powered.
Matrix Transport - The proposed action for use of matrix slurry
pipelines (assumed powered by electric pumps) would involve no signifi-
cant onsite atmospheric emissions. Alternative transport methods in-
clude the use of mechanical conveyors or truck transport. The con-
veyors would produce some increase in fugitive particulate matter emis-
sions at the transfer points. Truck transport would produce consider-
able increases in di^sel exhaust emissions and fugitive dust emissions
from truck traffic on the plant roadways.
Ore Processing - Alternatives to the proposed action of wet pro-
cess beneficiation of the ore matrix are dry separation and direct
acidulation. Both of these alternatives would entail substantial in-
creases in atmospheric emissions due to fuel combustion in the large
dryers that would be needed to dry the entire mass of processed ore.
The dry separation process would also entail increased fugitive parti-
culate emissions from increased handling of dry rock. The direct
acidulation technique would require substantial drying of the ore to
allow efficient grinding and to prevent substantial dilution of the
3.4-9
-------
product phosphoric acid. The direct acidulation process would also
pose a possibility of atmospheric emissions of sulfuric acid fumes.
Product Transport - Under the proposed action, dry product would
be shipped by rail from Ona to Tampa, and from there, by barge to the
MCC Pascagoula facility or to other buyers' chemical fertilizer plants.
Alternatives would be truck transport or pipeline transport of product
between Ona and Tampa.
The use of truck rather than rail transport would entail greater
emissions of diesel exhaust pollutants and greater fugitive dust gener-
ation by truck traffic on highways.
The pipeline option would involve pumping a water slurry of the
product, and thus could only be considered if wet rock product were to
be shipped from Ona. Presumably, the pipeline would be electrically
powered, so that railroad locomotive diesel exhaust would be replaced
with emissions from electric-power plants. The construction of a
pipeline would produce short-term fugitive dust emissions along the
pipeline right-of-way.
Rock Dryer - There are two alternatives to the proposed action of
drying the rock product at Ona. Both involve shipping only wet rock
product from the Ona site and thereby eliminating the onsite rock
dryer. The alternatives are: 1) installing a rock dryer at MCC's
fertilizer plant in Pascagoula, Mississippi, or 2) modifying MCC's
Pascagoula plant to process wet rock shipped from Ona. The effects of
these alternatives on air quality are discussed in detail in TSD-III.
Because these alternatives would delete the rock dryer from the
Ona site, each would significantly reduce atmospheric emissions at Ona.
Both alternatives would, however, involve substantial increases in fuel
combustion emissions in the Pascagoula area, where other large
industrial plants are located near the MCC facility.
Alternative 1 would involve expansion of the materials handling
and unloading facilities at Pascagoula in order to accept the wet rock
shipments. The rock dryer that would be required at Pascagoula would
3.4-10
-------
have roughly one-third the capacity of the proposed rock dryer at the
Ona site. Therefore, this alternative would replace rock dryer
emissions at Ona with rock dryer emissions roughly one-third as large
at Pascagoula. In addition, an unknown amount of additional rock
drying would occur at other locations owned by customers buying wet
rock from MCC and subsequently drying it for their own processing.
Alternative 2 would require relatively extensive modification of the
MCC Pascagoula plant in order to process the wet rock into fertilizer.
The most important air quality aspect of this modification would be the
addition of a boiler to generate process steam for the plant. The fuel
combustion emissions from this boiler would be roughly comparable to
those from the Ona rock dryer.
Both alternatives to MCC's proposed action would involve reduc-
tions in air quality effects in the area of the Ona mine site, but they
would each involve significant increases in the air quality effects in
the area of MCC's Pascagoula, Mississippi phosphate chemical processing
facility. Rough quantitative Pascagoula area air quality analyses were
made, taking advantage of readily available, previous modeling results
done for a PSD permit application for a nearby project. This level of
analysis (described in detail in TSD-III) was deemed appropriate to the
decision-making function of the EIS process.
The results of the Pascagoula area air quality evaluations for
both alternatives raise questions about possible permitting problems
related to the levels of increased sulfur dioxide emissions assumed for
each alternative. Although these alternatives would not necessarily in
themselves threaten PSD Class I and II increment limits, they would
require careful analysis because of potential interaction with other
increment-consuming sources.
If either of the alternatives was selected over MCC's proposal,
then the air quality permitting issues raised here would have to be
addressed in a careful and extensive dispersion modeling effort as part
of a PSD permit application for the Pascagoula site modification. This
3.4-11
-------
extensive modeling effort would be based on more refined engineering
and design information than is currently available.
jjo Action - This alternative would produce no increase in emiss-
sions over those currently existing, either man-induced or naturally
occurring, except as these emissions might otherwise increase in time
regardless of action on the proposed project.
Postponement of Action - It is conceivable that postponement of
the" proposed action to an indefinite time in the future could result in
reduced future atmospheric emissions from the project as a result of
technological advances during the intervening time. Fuel combustion
emissions from the rock dryer might, for example, be reduced or elimin-
ated by technological advances in emissions control, in alternative
energy sources, or in chemical processing of wet rock product.
3.4.2.3 Mitigative Measures
MCC's proposal includes the following air quality mitigative
measures: •
1) Restriction of construction and operating traffic to esta-
blished access roads.
2) Wet spray suppression of roadway dust during construction
activity.
3) Use of a totally wet beneficiation plant process, reducing the
amount of fugitive dust generation from handling of dry rock.
4) Enclosure of dry rock storage and handling operations, with
designed vents to the atmosphere sufficient to control air
emissions by use of scrubbers or baghouses.
5) Stabilization of soil surfaces, as needed, within the plant
boundary.
6) Surveillance of all mitigation and emissions control processes
in order to assure their continued effectiveness.
3.4-12
-------
These mitigative measures are described in greater detail in TSD-III,
which also discusses mitigative measures applicable to the two rock
dryer alternatives. •
3.4-13
-------
TABLE 3.4-1
MONTHLY AND ANNUAL MEAN AND EXTREME RAINFALL
AT WAUCHULA, FLORIDA
(in inches)
Month
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Mean
2.20
2.79
3.39
2.85
3.99
8.66
9.04
7.48
7.88
3.05
1.63
1.70
Maximum Minimum
7.26 0.03
8.92 0.19
9.22 0.08
8.26 0.00
11.32 0.01
18.40 2.40
15.54 2.80
15.53 2.97
18.06 1.19
10.36 0.00
6.43 0.02
4.83 0.11
Period of Record: Average = 1941-1970
Extremes = 1933-1977
Annual Rainfall Summary:
Mean - 54.66 in. (based on the 1941-1970 period of record)
Maximum - 83.48 in. (in 1953)
Minimum - 36.93 in. (in 1961)
From: U.S. Department of Commerce, 1955
U.S. Department of Commerce, 1964
U.S. Department of Commerce, 1962-1978
U.S. Department of Commerce, 1973
-------
TABLE 3.4-2
NATIONAL (NAAQS) AND FLORIDA (FAAQS) AMBIENT AIR QUALITY
STANDARDS FOR POLLUTANTS EMITTED BY THE PROPOSED MCC
PHOSPHATE PROJECT
Pollutant
PM
S02
N02
nverayi ny
Period
Annual0
24-Hourd
Annual6
24-Hourd
3-Hourd
Annual6
Primary9
75
260
80
365
100
Secondary^1
60
150
1300
100
(ug/m3)
60
150
60
260
1300
100
aPrimary standards are established to protect human health.
Secondary standards are established to protect human welfare and
reflect studies of pollutant effects on economically important
plants.
cAnnual geometric mean.
dThese standards are not to be exceeded more than once per
year at any particular receptor location.
6Annual arithmetic mean.
-------
TABLE 3.4-3
SUMMARY OF EXTREME AIR QUALITY MEASUREMENTS
FROM 1977 THROUGH MID-1980 IN THE VICINITY
OF THE PROPOSED MCC ROCK DRYER
Pollutant
PM
S02
Fluorides
(Gaseous)
Averaging
Period
Annual
24-Hour
Annual
24-Hour
3-Houra
Annual
24-Hour
Maximum
Concentration
(ug/m3)
39
207
17
163
158
<2.8
9.97
Fluorides'3 24-Hour
(Particulate)
0.04
Highest Second Highest
Concentration (ug/m3)
110
60
137
aData for the 3-hour S0£ averaging period were available from only
two monitoring locations.
bData for the particulate fluorides were available from only one
monitor location.
-------
TABLE 3.4-4
ESTIMATED ATMOSPHERIC EMISSIONS, MCC COMPLEX, WITH CONTROLS
POLLUTANT (ACTUAL)'
S02
PHASE/FACILITY
Temporary
Site Preparation
Construction
Sub Total
Mining/Operation and
Process 1 ng
Mining
Wet Rock Storage
Boiler #1
Bo i 1 er #2
Phosphate Rock Dryer
Sub Total
Dry Rock Storage and
Transport
Scrubber #1
Scrubber #2
Scrubber #3
Scrubber #4
Sub Total
Facility Total
Transportation
Ral 1 road/Barge
Project Total
LBS/HR
—
2.15
2.15
2.76
—
18.36
10.94
286.13
318.19
—
—
—
—
—
320.34
0.02
320.36
TPYf
—
9.40
9.40
12.07
—
80.42
47.92
1,253.25
1,393.66
—
—
—
—
—
1,403.06
0.09
1,403.96
NOX
LBS/HR
0.71
35.78
36.49
5.58
—
3.02
1.80
78.30
88.70
—
—
—
—
125.19
1.65
126.84
TPY
3.14
156.73
159.87
24.45
—
13.23
7.88
342. 95e
388.51
—
—
—
—
—
548.38
7.21
555.59
CO
LBS/HR
23.62
16.46
40.08
1.79
—
0.26
0.16
6.75
8.96
—
—
—
—
—
49.04
3.86
52.90
TPY
103.44
72.09
175.43
7.84
—
1.14
0.70.
29.57d
39.25
—
—
—
—
—
214.68
16.93
231. 61d
HC
LBS/HR
3.93
3.22
7.15
0.40
—
0.05
0.03
1.35
1.83
--
—
—
—
—
8.98
0.71
9.69
PM
TPY
17.24
14.11
31.35
1.73
—
0.22
0.1 3J
5.91d
7.99
—
—
—
—
—
39.34
3.13
42.47d
LBS/HR
2.86
2.15
4.96
0.42
—
1.33
0.79
20.28
22.82
2.22
5.70
3.16
3.16
14.24
42.02
0.01
42.03
TPY
12.54
9.40
21.94
1.83
—
5.82
3.46
88.83
99.94
9.72
25.00
13.80
13.80
62.32
184.20
0.55
184.75
Gaseous
Fugitive Dust Fluorides
LBS/HR TPY LBS/HR TPY
—
19.68 86.20
19.68 86.20
20.00 87. 60^ —
48.31 211.29D'C —
—
— — — —
0.04 0.18
68.31 298.89 0.04 0.18
— — — —
—
— — — —
—
—
87.99 385.39 0.04 0.18
87.99 385.39b'C 0.04 0.18
Includes reduction due to proposed controls.
^Fugitive dust emissions include a substantial weight percent of coarse particulate matter (unlike dryer emissions)
that will redeposit relatively close to the point of emission.
cAnalysis of product particle size suggests methodology produces substantial over-estimation (99.9856 > 40 y m).
dPollutant loadings generated by fuel combustion process for equivalent industrial boiler capacity. Reduced
generation and/or removal may be expected In fluldlzed bed dryers and wet scrubbing devices.
eBased on field measurements conducted on a similar fluosolids dryer.
TPY = Tons per year.
-------
TABLE 3.4-5
ESTIMATED ATMOSPHERIC EMISSIONS, MCC COMPLEX, WITHOUT CONTROLS
POLLUTANT (POTENTIAL)*1
PHASE/FACILITY
Temporary
Site Preparation
Construction
Sub Total
Mining/Operation and
Process 1 ng
Mining
Wet Rock Storage
Boiler 11
Boiler 12
Phosphate Rock Dryer
Sub Total
Dry Rock Storage and
Transport
Scrubber #1
Scrubber #2
Scrubber #3
Scrubber #4
Sub Total
Facility Total
Transportation
Ra 1 1 road /Barge
Project Total
S02
LBS/HR
2.15
2.15
2.76
18.36
10.94
476.89
508.95
—
—
—
—
--
511.10
0.02
511.12
TPYT
9.40
9.40
12.07
80.42
47.92
2,088.78
2,229.19
__
__
—
—
~
2,238.59
0.09
2,238.68
NOX
LBS/HR
0.71
35.78
36.49
5.58
3.02
1.80
78.30
88.70
—
—
~
125.19
1.65
126.84
TPY
3.14
156.73
159.87
24.45
13.23
7.88
342. 95e
388.51
__
—
--
548.38
7.21
555.59
CO
LBS/HR
23.62
16.46
40.08
1.79
0.26
0.16
6.75
8.96
__-
__
— _
—
—
49.04
3.86
52.90
TPY
103.44
72.09
175.43
7.84
1.14
0.70^
29.57d
39.25
___
__
—
—
214.68
16.93
231. 61d
HC
LBS/HR
3.93
3.22
7.15
0.40
0.05
0.03
1.35
1.83
—
—
8.98
0.71
9.69
TPY
17.24
14.11
31.35
1.73
0.22
0.13
5.91d
7.99
—
—
39.34
3.13
42.47d
PM
LBS/HR
2.86
2.15
4.96
0.42
1.33
0.79
21,600
21,603
792
2,037
1 131
1,131
5,091
26,699
0.01
26,699
TPY
12.54
9.40
21.94
1.83
5.82
3.46
94,608
94,619
3 469
8 922
4 956
4,956
22,303
116,944
0.55
116,945
Gaseous
Fugitive Dust5 Fluorides
LBS/HR TPY LBS/HR TPY
19.68 86.20
19.68 86.20
20.00 87.60
48.31 211.29C
0.04 0.18
68.31 298.89 0.04 0.18
— —
87.99 385.39 0.04 0.18
—
87.99 385. 39C 0.04 0.18
Excludes reduction due to proposed controls.
Fugitive dust emissions include a substantial weight percent of coarse particulate matter (unlike dryer emissions)
that will redeposit relatively close to the point of emission.
Analysis of product particle size suggests methodology produces substantial over-estimation (99.98? > 40 y m).
Pollutant loadings generated by fuel combustion process for equivalent Industrial boiler capacity. Reduced
generation and/or removal may be expected in fluldized bed dryers and wet scrubbing devices.
Q
Based on field measurements conducted on a similar fluosolids dryer.
TPY = Tons per year.
-------
TABLE 3.4-6
MAXIMUM CALCULATED GROUND-LEVEL CONCENTRATIONS FOR CRITERIA POLLUTANTS
EMITTED BY THE PROPOSED MCC COMPLEX9
Pollutant
Sulfur Dioxide
Particulate Matter
Carbon Monoxide
Nitrogen Dioxide
Averaging Time
3-Hour
24-Hour
Annual Arithmetic
Mean
24-Hour
Annual Geometric0
Mean
1-Hour •
8-Hour
Annual Arithmetic
Mean
Concentration (yg/m3)
Calculated
Impact
158
41
6
16
2
3
2
Calculated
Ambient Plus
Background" Background
157 315
69 110
4 10
90 106
28 30
—
State of Florida
Standard
l,300d
260d
60
150d
60
40,000d
10,000d
aShort-term impacts represent highest, second-highest concentrations.
bBased upon highest recorded concentrations from ambient monitoring.
Calculated from the annual arithmetic mean and geometric standard deviation
obtained from ambient monitoring.
dNot to be exceeded more than once per year at any specified location.
100
Source: Environmental Science and Engineering, Inc., 1981a.
-------
TABLE 3.4-7
HIGHEST, SECOND-HIGHEST CALCULATED SHORT-TERM SO? AMD PM
CONCENTRATION (yg/m3) FOR PROPOSED MCC COMPLEX,
INTERACTION SOURCES AND ALLOWABLE PSD CLASS II INCREMENTS
MCC/Wauchula
PSD MCC Power and American MCC/Mancini MCC/ MCC/ MCC/
Pollutant Increments Only Orange Packing FPL Manatee IMC AGRICO
3-Hour S02
24-Hour S02
24-Hour PM
512
91
37
158
41
16
110
29
8
100
30
7
98
26
9
87
20
—
53
20
7
Source: Environmental Science and Engineering, Inc., 1981a.
-------
TABLE 3.4-8
SUMMARY OF PSD INCREMENT CONSUMPTION RESULTS
FOR PROPOSED MCC COMPLEX
Maximum9 Increment Consumption
(ug/m3)
Averaging Time
Pollutant
Sulfur Dioxide
MCC Point of Maximum Impact
MCC and FPL Manatee Interaction
MCC and IMC Interaction
MCC and AGRICO Interaction
Allowable Increment
Parti cul ate Matter
MCC Point of Maximum Impact
MCC and FPL Manatee Interaction
MCC and IMC Interaction
MCC and AGRICO Interaction
Allowable Increment
3-Hour
158
98
87
53
512
NAb
NA
NA
NA
NA
24-Hour
41
26
20
20
91
16
9
--
7
37
Annual
6
—
—
—
20
2
—
—
—
19
aThe short-term impacts represent highest, second-highest
concentrations.
bNA = Not Applicable
Source: Environmental Science and Engineering, Inc., 198la.
-------
HILLSBOROUGH CO. I | rvu\ ww. \
_^_ » ___ « __ — >^—• + ——• — -^—• • —^ ^"T"~ ^^"^ ™ ^~~ — ~™"* '" I N^ ^^~ ™ ""^
I Ljinnee <*n I . X
j
I HIGHLANDS CO.
PM Monitor
S02 Monitor
Fluorides Monitor
Plant Site
20MU8
MKLOMETEMS
SCALE
Figure 3.4-1. Locations of Air Quality Monitors in the
Vicinity of the Proposed MCC Rock Dryer Site.
-------
REFERENCES
Environmental Science and Engineering, Inc., 1981. Prevention of
significant deterioration analysis for proposed Mississippi Chemi-
cal Corporation phosphate rock processing complex in Hardee
County, Florida, Volume I, Report No. 78-148-101, Gainesville,
Florida.
Lakeland National Weather Service Office, 1975, Office publication
showing monthly and annual wind direction frequencies. Lakeland,
Florida.
U.S. Department of Commerce, 1955, Climatic summary of the United
States - Supplement for 1931 through 1952: Florida No. 6. U.S.
Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C.
1964, Climatic summary of the United States - Supplement
for 1951 through 1960: Climatography of the United States No.
86-6 - Florida. U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington,
D.C.
, 1962-1978, Climatological data - Florida, annual summaries
1961-1977, Vols. 65-81, No. 13 U.S. Government Printing Office,
Washington, D.C.
, 1973, Climatography of the United States No. 81 - Florida,
Monthly normals of temperature, precipitation, and heating and
cooling degree days 1941-70. National Climatic Center, Federal
Building, Asheville, North Carolina.
, 1979, Local climatological data 1978 - Lakeland, Florida.
U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C.
United States Environmental Protection Agency, September, 1978a. In:
Federal Register, 43:40423.
, 1978b, Ambient monitoring guidelines for prevention of
significant deterioration (PSD), EPA-450/2-78-019.
-------
THIS PAGE LEFT BLANK INTENTIONALLY
-------
3.5 HUMAN RESOURCES
3.5.1 Socioeconomics and Transportation
3.5.1.1 Existing Conditions
The following description of socioeconomic and transportation
baseline conditions and impacts is a summary of the detailed data
provided in TSD-IV, Human Resources. The seven-county region selected
for study in this document includes Charlotte, DeSoto, Hardee, Hills-
borough, Manatee, Polk, and Sarasota Counties (Figure 2.0-1). These
counties were chosen due to the presence of phosphate reserves and the
influence that mining may have on the counties' socioeconomic charac-
teristics.
Population
Population within the seven-county region grew at the same rate as
Florida between 1970 and 1979, 3.6 percent annually. Compound growth
rates for both the seven-county area and the state were twice as high
between 1970 and 1975 (4.6 percent annually) as in the last four years
(2.3 percent annually) because the rate at which retirees and working
people entered the state or study area decreased between 1970 and
1979.
The population in the study area is expected to continue to grow
at the same rate as the state population between 1979 and 2020, 1.8
percent annually. With an expected growth rate of only 1.2 percent
during that period, Hardee County is projected to grow more slowly than
any of the other counties in the study area.
Employment
Unemployment rates for 1979 in counties that have a high number of
retirees, such as Charlotte, Manatee, and Sarasota were lower than they
were in the remainder of the study region. Agricultural counties such
as Hardee and DeSoto had unemployment rates that were higher than the
study area average, 8.0 percent and 6.5 percent, respectively, compared
to 5.9 percent for the study region, and 6.0 percent for the state
3.5-1
-------
average. Due to the highly seasonal nature of agriculture in the
region, unemployment rates in July 1980 were higher than the average
rates in 1979 for all of the counties in the study region.
The percent of employment by industry in the study area changed
very little between 1973 and 1978. Trade was the largest source of
jobs in the study area, with 23 percent of total employment. Services,
the second largest source of employment in the study area, accounted
for 18 percent of total jobs in 1978; government accounted for 15 per-
cent of total jobs in both 1973 and 1978. The large amount of govern-
ment employment in the study area suggests that this sector may be
well-developed to off-set the relatively under-developed economy of the
area. Manufacturing was also a major employer in the study region;
this sector accounted for 12 percent of total employment between 1973
and 1978.
In comparison with other counties in the study area, Hardee County
has a higher portion of its employment in agriculture, which accounted
for 29 percent of total jobs in the county in 1978. Other important
employers in the county during 1978 were: government, with 15 percent
of total employment; trade, with 14 percent of total employment; and
"other" (including mining, agricultural services, forestry, fisheries,
and other), with 14 percent of total employment.
There are few employment statistics for the mining industry in the
study region. The best available information is the number of mining
and chemical employees by place of residence. Mining and chemical
employment accounted for roughly 1 percent, 6 percent, and 10 percent
of the 1979 non-agricultural work force living in Hillsborough, Polk,
and Hardee Counties, respectively.
Personal Income
Incomes in the counties of the study region ranged from $6,514 per
capita in DeSoto County to $9,310 per capita in Sarasota County during
1978. Except for Sarasota County, all of the counties in the study
region were below average U.S. per capita income levels in 1978. Small
3.5-2
-------
rural counties such as Hardee and DeSoto had the lowest income levels
in the region, with 88 percent and 83 percent of the U.S. level in
1978, respectively. Sarasota, Charlotte, and Manatee Counties, which
have a large number of retirees, have per capita incomes that are above
or close to the state average. The per capita income in all of the
counties of the study region rose faster (geometric rate of change of
10 percent) than the national average (8.8 percent) between 1969 and
1978.
Farm income represented 32 percent of total income in Hardee
County in 1978, far above the study region average of 3 percent.
Basic and Nonbasic Industries
The growth of a region depends to a significant extent on the
demand for goods and services exported to other sections of the
country. Exported goods and services bring income into the region
which is then spent and respent on goods and services produced in the
local business sector. Location quotients, a measure of local employ-
ment relative to total U.S. employment, can be used to identify export
and local sectors of the economy (Isard, 1973). A coefficient above
1.20 identifies export industries; a coefficient below 0.91 indicates
that goods and services produced by these industries in the region are
insufficient to meet the local demand and that these products are,
therefore, being imported. Typically, in rural counties, a low co-
efficient means the residents are shopping in market centers outside of
the county. The location quotient is greater than 1.20 in the study
region in construction, non-farm proprietors' employment, and "other"
employment. The location quotient for Hardee County is greater than
1.20 in agriculture, non-farm proprietors' employment, and "other."
The large location quotient for "other" is due to the large amount of
agricultural services.
Community Services and Facilities
The Central Florida Phosphate Industry Areawide Impact Assessment
(USEPA, 1978) describes the services and facilities in the study
3.5-3
-------
region, and the ADA/DRI's for MCC (MCC,1977) and other phosphate
industries in the area (CF Mining Corporation, 1976) contain detailed
descriptions of Hardee County services and facilities.
Facilities and services in the study area and in Hardee County are
currently at adequate levels for the existing population (MCC, 1977)
and are expected to remain adequate through 1985 (Ford, 1980). How-
ever, housing availability is relatively low in Hardee County. Because
housing availability is anticipated to be limited in the 1980's,
workers are expected to commute to the project site rather than attempt
to find housing in Hardee County (Ford, 1980).
Transportation
Three roads are expected to receive the bulk of the traffic which
will result from the MCC project. These roads are US 17 (also
designated as State Road 35), State Road (SR) 62, and SR 64 to the west
and the east of the project site (Figure 2.0-1).
3.5.1.2 Environmental Impacts
MCC's Proposed Action
Expenditures and employment during the construction and operating
phases of the project are described in the ADA/DRI (MCC, 1977) as well
as in TSD-IV. The peak construction work force would be a maximum of
700 workers, and the operational phase would provide employment for 450
people. Construction expenditures would average about $47.5 million
annually for two years; 90 percent of the expenditures are expected to
be made in the study region and 10 percent of that amount is expected
to accrue to Hardee County. Operational expenses are expected to be
about $27 million annually, distributed in the same manner as construc-
tion expenditures.
Ninety percent of the required labor force for the project is
expected to come from the study area, 10 percent of which is expected
to come from Hardee County. Because housing is expected to be in short
supply in Hardee County, there should be little change in residential
3.5-4
-------
patterns within the counties in the study region as a result of the MCC
project.
Related to Hardee County's ability to provide community services
is the tax revenue which would accrue to the county. Property taxes
which would be paid to Hardee County by MCC each year are anticipated
to range from $750,000 to $1,200,000. This is from three to five times
the revenue the land would generate as agricultural land. Based on the
1981 rate of $1.67/ton, the severance tax on phosphate ore removed from
the property would be $5,010,000/year. Annual expenditures by MCC for
products and services would not be realized if the permit were not
granted. State sales tax revenue on these expenditures is estimated to
be between $747,000 and $914,000 per year (MCC, 1977).
The impact on population, employment, and personal income in the
study region and in Hardee County as a result of the project is ex-
pected to be small. Expected impacts represent less than 1 percent of
projected 1985 population, employment, and personal income for both the
construction and operation phases of the project. .
All of the highways are projected to provide satisfactory levels
of service in 1985, with the exception of US 17. The service level
along one portion of US 17 south of Bowling Green and north of SR 62 is
expected to fall below a condition of stable flow even without the
project (from service level C to D); this drop in service level would
not be the result of project impacts, however (service level defini-
tions of Pignataro, 1973). Some additional congestion is expected on
this section of US 17 and on the unpaved portions of Vandolah Road and
the Fort Green-Ona Road due to the project.
Assuming that 70 to 100-car trains would transport the phosphate
rock to Tampa for loading onto barges, no significant adverse impacts
are expected. Approximately three such trains would be loaded at the
mine every two days; one typical barge would be filled every 2.3 days.
If suitable, enclosed cars are not available or if congestion at the
3.5-5
-------
rail yards in Tampa should cause delays in train arrivals at the mine
site, trucks might be used."
If trucks were to be used for rock transport, approximately 430,
20-ton trucks per day would be required to move the phosphate rock from
the beneficiation plant. This represents a total of 860 truck passages
per day (arriving and leaving) or one truck leaving the site approxi-
mately every 3 minutes. Assuming that, without the project, trucks
would constitute 10 percent of the area's 1985 traffic, a total of 40
percent truck traffic would be expected with the project. Without the
project, one truck would pass a given point on the highway every 7.5
minutes. With the additional truck traffic produced by MCC operations,
a truck would pass a particular point every 1.4 minutes. This traffic
level may not be acceptable over "an extended period of time, especially
in urban areas near the destination point of the loaded trucks. Truck
usage can be considered feasible only for spot shipment or as a short-.
term supplement to rail cars. The complexity of operating such a large
number of trucks indicates that stockpiling or reducing plant produc-
tivity might be necessary if the use of rail cars were curtailed over a
long period of time.
In summary, the MCC project as proposed would have small positive
impacts on the population, employment, and personal and tax income of
the study area and Hardee County, and a small negative impact on
transportation systems for certain portions of US 17, Vandolah Road,
and the Fort Green-Ona Road.
Alternatives
Project alternatives under consideration would have little effect
on the number of workers who would be employed on the project or where
these workers would come from, nor would they affect sources of mater-
ials or location of project expenditures. Because these are the
primary factors that influence socioeconomic impacts, impacts are not
expected to change significantly as a result of the implementation of
any of the project alternatives.
3.5-6
-------
Waste Disposal/Reclamation Alternatives - The conventional method
of separate disposal areas for waste clay and sand tailings in a land
and lakes reclamation pattern would alter land use and agricultural
potential on MCC property after mining operations are completed.
Basically, the potential for agricultural production would be lower
than with the proposed sand/clay cap method, but there may be some
enhancement of recreation potential due to the creation of lakes. It
is not possible to predict the net effect on income or tax levels
within the county or region.
Product Transport - Should the phosphate be transported primarily
by truck from the Ona mine to Tampa or other customer destinations,
there would be a substantial increase in heavy truck traffic in the
site vicinity and along major highways in the region.
No Action or Postponement of Action - Should the project be can-
celled, the minor impacts identified for the proposed action could not
occur. A delay in mining development probably would not change the
substance or significance of any of the socioeconomic impacts
identified previously.
3.5.1.3 Mitigative Measures
Because the project impacts on employment and personal income are
expected to be positive in nature, mitigative measures for socioecono-
mic impacts are not considered applicable.
No measures to mitigate traffic impacts appear necessary even for
the period when the construction work force level is at its peak.
However, if traffic problems develop during peak construction periods,
staggering work shifts would decrease traffic in the plant vicinity.
Paving of the Fort Green-Ona Road and portions of Vandolah Road would
also contribute to improved conditions in the plant vicinity.
3.5-7
-------
3.5.2 Land Use
3.5.2.1 Existing Conditions
The seven-county regional land use patterns are discussed in the
Central Florida Phosphate Industry Areawide Impact Assessment (USEPA,
1978). This section will therefore focus on a summary of land use
patterns in Hardee County. More detailed data are provided in TSD-IV,
Human Resources.
Hardee County
Land in Hardee County is used primarily for agricultural purposes.
More than 75 percent of the county is in citrus, pasture, rangeland, or
cropland, while only about 1 percent of the county is urbanized. The
largest use of land in the county is rangeland, occupying almost 36
percent of the total county land area. Other uses of significance
include cropland and pasture (26 percent), orchards, citrus groves,
etc. (17 percent), and wetlands (17 percent). Mining uses were
insignificant in 1975.
Citrus is by far the leading farm product in the county, followed
by livestock production. The orange crop was valued between $65 and
$75 million in the 1978 to 1979 season; cattle sales were valued at
between $10 and $15 million in 1979 (Hayman, 1980).
Land used for residential, commercial services, and other urban
purposes is expected to increase substantially between the years 1975
and 2000 due to expansion of the phosphate industry and the associated
economic growth. The land expected to be converted to these uses is
now agricultural land and rangeland.
It is anticipated that as much as one third of Hardee County might
be mined and reclaimed by 2035. If so, mined land would account for
approximately 134,265 acres. Most of this mining would occur on areas
presently used for crops and pasture, citrus groves, rangeland, and
forest. Proper reclamation would return this land to similar useful
purposes.
3.5-8
-------
Site
The MCC property accounts for almost 4 percent of the county's
total land area. The existing percentage of land use or land cover on
the MCC site and in Hardee County, based on USGS Land Use and Develop-
ment Analysis (LUDA) categories, is indicated below (MCC, 1977):
Approximate
Approximate Percent of
Land Use Type (LUDA #) Area (Acres) on Site Site
Pasture (210) 5,040 34
Citrus Grove (230) 28 <1
Pine Flatwood, Palmetto, 6,002 40
Forest Rangeland (411)
Xeric Hammock (421) 30 <1
Hardwood Swamp (621) 490 3
Mesic Hammock (422) 770 5
Fresh Water Marsh (641) 2,490 17
Urban (100) 0 0
Total 14,850 100
The percentage of rangeland, forest land, wetlands, and urban land
contained on the site is similar to that found elsewhere in Hardee
County. The MCC property has a greater percentage of pasture land and
an especially low amount of land under cultivation for citrus products
in comparison to the county as a whole.
Two agricultural products are produced on the MCC site: citrus
and cattle. Based on estimations of the acreages and carrying capaci-
ties of each type of range and soil productivity levels, the entire MCC
property could support approximately 1,200 to 1,500 head of cattle,
depending on the condition of the range and the extent to which it has
been grazed, as well as management practices. Based on similar calcul-
ations for citrus production and an average yield of 300 boxes per acre
in Hardee County, the 28-acre citrus grove on the MCC site could
provide approximately 8,400 boxes of oranges annually.
3.5-9
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3.5.2.2 Environmental Impacts
MCC's Proposed Action
The total maximum annual loss in agricultural revenue, assuming
that 100 percent of the site is removed from agricultural production as
a result of the project, is estimated to be $655,000 to $805,000. This
represents less than 1 percent of the value of total county agricul-
tural production in 1979. In reality, the agricultural losses would
not be this high since some of the land would remain in production
while other parcels are being mined and reclaimed. If 10 or 25 percent
of the land is being mined or reclaimed and is therefore out of produc-
tion in any given year and if the orange crop is assumed to be com-
pletely lost, then the annual crop and livestock losses would be an
estimated $115,000 to $130,000, for a 10 percent production loss, and
an estimated $205,000 to $243,000 for a 25 percent loss in production.
These losses are insignificant compared to 1979 Hardee County agricul-
tural production.
Alternatives
Waste Disposal/Reclamation - The only change of possible signifi-
cance which might result from implementation of alternatives would be
the potential for poorer soil conditions and consequent lower produc-
tivity if conventional waste disposal and land and lakes reclamation
selected. As indicated in Section 3.5.1.2, however, improved recre-
ation potential would reduce the losses in revenue which might accrue
due to the future land uses.
3.5.2.3 Mitigative Measures
Mitigative measures for land use would be undertaken through the
reclamation process as required by local, state, and federal regula-
tions. No significant adverse impacts on land use have been identified
that would require further mitigative measures.
3.5-10
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3.5.3 Historic and Archeologic Resources
3.5.3.1 Existing Conditions
An archeological survey of the MCC property conducted in 1975 by
Dr. Jerald T. Milanich, Assistant Curator of Archeology of the Florida
State Museum, revealed three historic period (20th Century) sites and
four aboriginal sites. This study concluded that none of the sites was
of significant importance to warrant preservation.
The three historic sites located were all 20th Century and have no
historical significance. No salvage excavations or preservation was
recommended for these sites.
Three of the four aboriginal sites are severely disturbed and
eroded by 20th Century land clearing and/or agricultural activities.
Because of this disturbance and the paucity of artifactual materials
present, none of these sites are recommended for preservation or addi-
tional archeological investigations.
A fourth aboriginal site (Site No. 1, Figure 3.5-1) is most likely
a campsite representing the Lake Okeechobee Basin Belle Glade culture.
The site, representing a seasonal camp occupied for at least several
years, was recommended for excavation prior to mining at this location,
in order to recover archeological data pertinent to an understanding of
the aboriginal cultures of South Florida (MCC, 1977). Since the cul-
tural resources survey is included in its entirety as an appendix to
the ADA/DRI, it has not be included in the Human Resources TSD-IV. The
Department of Interior has indicated that Aboriginal Site #1 is eligi-
ble for the National Register of Historic Places (Appendix E). Consul-
tation with the Advisory Council concerning this site is currently in
progress.
3.5.3.2 Environmental Impacts
MCC's Proposed Action
It is anticipated that all of the archeological and historic sites
would be altered during mining operations to the extent that the value
of the sites would be lost. However, since the archeological survey
3.5-11
-------
conducted on the property revealed that none of the sites was signifi-
cant enough to warrant preservation, very little impact due to the loss
of these sites is anticipated.
Aboriginal Site #1 was considered for excavation or intensive
testing to recover archeological data before mining is begun. It has
been proposed that the excavation work take place after permitting of
the mine is accomplished and before any mining takes place with the
agreement of the State Historic Preservation Office. The archeologist
selected for the work would submit a Plan of Study to the SHPO before
any work is begun. The NPDES permit would be conditioned to include
the requested excavation of the site.
Alternatives .
None of the project alternatives would have a different affect on
archeological and historic resources.
3.5.3.3 Mitigative Measures
Excavation and intensive testing of Aboriginal Site #1, as plan-
ned, constitutes the only mitigative measure which has been identified.
3.5.4 Noise
3.5.4.1 Existing Conditions
To adequately describe existing sound quality in the area of the
proposed phosphate mine and beneficiation plant, background ambient
sound levels were measured in accordance with ANS SI.13-1971 at four
locations most representative of sound sensitive areas near the site.
Location 1 was in the community of Ona; Location 2 was at the trailers
on the east property boundary; Location 3 was at a residence on
Vandolah Road along the northern property boundary; and Location 4 was
at the New Zion Church (Figure 3.5-2).
Sound sources which were heard while measurements were being made
were typical of a rural environment. -These sources were traffic, farm
animals, insects, dogs, birds, human activity, etc. A complete
3.5-12
-------
description of these noise sources is provided in TSD IV, Section 3.0,
Noise.
Ambient sound levels were measured during four typical periods of
the day (morning, afternoon, evening, and nighttime) using a sound
level meter and tape recorder. The tape recordings were analyzed
statistically to obtain A-weighted and octave band sound pressure level
data. Table 3.5-1 provides a summary of the statistical A-weighted
sound levels for each location and for each measurement period. Day-
time and nighttime Equivalent Sound Levels and the day-night sound
level (L,jn) are computed from these data and presented in this
table. A description of the instrumentation and complete statistical
data are presented in TSD-IV.
A review of Table 3.5-1 indicates that ambient sound levels at
Locations 1 and 4 exceeded the USEPA-identified sound level of L(jn
= 55 dB requisite to protect public health and welfare. However, the
sound level at most communities in the United States exceeds this
value. Therefore, the USEPA developed near term goals for reducing
community noise to below L(jn = 65 dB. The day-night sound levels
at the sound level measurement locations are all below L^ = 65 dB.
Insect noise was significant at night, thus increasing nighttime sound
levels. Since the USEPA penalizes nighttime sound levels by adding 10
dB for computation of L(jn, the computed values shown in Table 3.5-1
are higher than would be indicated if computations used actual
nighttime measurements.
3.5.4.2 Environmental Impacts
MCC's Proposed Action
A review of noise contributions from mining operations, plant
operations, local roads, and railroads indicates that only the noise
from mining would be significant. This is due to the close proximity
of the mining activity to a few mine boundary residences and the town
of Ona. The proposed mining activity would consist primarily of two
draglines and would produce an equivalent sound level (Leq) of
3.5-13
-------
52 dB at a mine boundary residence when operating at a 500-foot
distance (closest MCC would mine to residences). Since mining is a
24-hour operation, this would result in a day/night sound level
(Ldn) of 59 dB at such residences. This L,jn would slightly
exceed federal levels identified by the USEPA as requisite to protect
public health and welfare (USEPA, 1974), but would not exceed the
USEPA1s near-term goal of reducing community noise below an L^p of
65 dB (USEPA, 1977).
Alternatives
Mining Methods - Dredges and bucket wheel excavators were con-
sidered as alternatives to draglines. Neither would have a noticeably
different effect on sound level-s.
Plant Site Location - Beneficiation is not expected to have a
significant effect on noise levels; therefore, alternative plant loca-
tions would not change expected noise levels at offsite receptor loca-
tions.
Matrix Transport - The effect on noise impacts due to conveyor and
truck transport of matrix to the beneficiation plant was considered in
conjunction with dragline mining. Noise impacts using conveyors would
be unchanged from those of the proposed action. However, the combina-
tion of draglines, front-end loaders, and offroad trucks would produce
substantially more noise than MCC's proposal. If the center of mining
activity is 500 feet from residential property (the closest MCC would
mine), the equivalent sound level might be as high as 71 dB. Including
baseline sound levels, future day/night sound levels might reach as
high as 77.7 dB at the various receptors. This sound level exceeds
even the USEPA1s short-term goal of 65 dB.
Product Transport - Transport of product to offsite customers
would be most troublesome from the standpoint of noise impacts if
significant truck shipments were utilized. No specific-sound level
impacts can be estimated, but highways are generally located closer to
3.5-14
-------
high density residential communities than are railroads. Slurry pipe-
line transport would have the least noise impact.
No Action - If mining were not allowed at the MCC site, baseline
ambient noise levels would remain above 55 dB at Ona. The slight in-
crease specified in TSD IV would not occur.
Postponement of Action - This should have no substantive effect on
noise level impacts due to the mine, except to delay their occurrence.
3.5.4.3 Mitigative Measures
No mitigative measures are considered necessary for the proposed
action; a suitable sound barrier would reduce noise levels at property
boundaries, but only to existing sound levels which are already above
the level identified by USEPA to protect public health and welfare.
For the alternative of matrix transport by truck, two approaches
or a combination thereof could be used in an attempt to reduce sound
levels to an l^n of 65 dB at the nearest residences. One is to
operate no closer than 2,000 feet from any offsite residence. The
second is to construct a high berm or erect some other sound barrier on
the property line between the mining equipment and the nearest resi-
dence. A berm which might provide 15 dB of attenuation would allow the
mining operation to take place at a distance of 500 feet from the
residence without exceeding an L,-|n of 62.5 dB, which is below the
USEPA1s near-term goal of 65 dB. At this sound level, outdoor communi-
cations would not be affected, and residents should not be disturbed by
mining activity sounds.
Nighttime sound levels at these residences would be approximately
56 dB if a barrier is used. With a typical outdoor-to-indoor attenua-
tion (windows closed) of 15 dB, indoor sound levels would not disturb
any resident's sleep.
3.5-15
-------
TABLE 3.5-1
SUMMARY OF ENVIRONMENTAL SOUND LEVELS3
Morning
Location 1 (Ona)
Night-
Afternoon Evening time
Statistical Sound Date:
Level, dB Time:
LIO
L5o
L90
Leq
Ld = 62.1 dB
Ln = 53.5 dB
Ldn = 64.7 dB
7/9/80
1000
59
49
43
59.9
7/8/80 7/9/80
1430 1820
68 58
49 46
43 42
64.6 56.8
Location 2 (East Property Boundary)
Statistical Sound
Level, dB
Date:
Time:
I50
L90
Leq
Ld
Ln
Ldn
7/8/80
1120
32
30
30
32.3
39.4 dB
47.4 dB
53.3 dB
7/8/80
1700
44
41
39
41.9
Location 3 (Vandolah Road)
Statistical Sound
Level, dB
i-10
L50
Date:
Time:
Leq
Ld
Ln
Ldn
7/8/80
1000
46
38
36
50.5
7/8/80
1610
49
43
42
49
49.2 dB
47.5 dB
54.2 dB
Statistical Sound Date:
Level, dB Time:
LIO
L50
Lgo
Leq
Ld = 48.3 dB
Ln = 55.7 dB
Ldn = 61.6 dB
7/9/80
1100
45
38
36
42.7
Location 4 (Church)
7/8/80
1430
42
37
36
43.6
7/9/80
2000
40
37
35
38.8
7/9/80
2040
48
42
41
47.2
7/9/80
1900
53
53
51
52.9
7/8/80
0000
50
49
48
53.5
7/8/80
2245
49
47
46
47.4
7/8/80
2345
48
47
47
47.5
7/7/80
2230
56
56
55
55.7
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ARCHAEOLOGICALrSFl
EXCAVAT.ON
SOURCE: MCC, 1977
ABORIGINAL SITE
AJ 20th CENTURV HISTORIC SITE
73 MARSH
B WOODLAND
-•-- CONTOUR ELEVATION
Figure 3.5-1. Archaeological Sites on MCC Property.
-------
27
23
26
24
28
36
Figure 3.5-2. Location of Sound
Monitoring Stations
-------
REFERENCES
CF Mining Corporation, 1976. Application for development approval, CF
Mining Corporation, Hardee phosphate complex, a development of
regional impact. Prepared by Dames & Moore, Atlanta, Georgia.
Ford, Ken, 1980. Central Florida Regional Planning Council, Bartow,
personal communication.
Hayman, Jack, 1980. Hardee County agricultural extension agent, per-
sonal communication.
Isard, Walter, 1973. Methods of regional analysis: an introduction to
regional science. The M.I.T. Press, Cambridge, Massachusetts,
784 pp.
Mississippi Chemical Corporation, 1977. Application for development
approval for development of regional impact. Prepared by Environ-
mental Sciences and Engineering, Inc., Gainesville, Florida. For
submittal to Florida Department of Environmental Regulation.
Pignataro, Louis J., 1973. Traffic engineering theory and practice.
Prentice-Hall, Inc., Brooklyn, NY, 502 pp.
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, 1974. EPA information on levels
of environmental noise requisite to protect public health and
welfare with an adequate margin of safety. No. 550/9-74-004.
, Office of Noise Abatement and Control, 1977. Toward a
national strategy for noise control, Washington, D.C., 53 pp.
, 1978. Central Florida phosphate industry areawide impact
assessment program.
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3.6 RADIOLOGY
3.6.1 Existing Conditions
3.6.1.1 Radionuclide Contents of Subsurface Materials
Most phosphate deposits contain uranium series radionuclide con-
centrations that may be significantly elevated above the mean value for
the earth's crust. The higher uranium levels are associated with
phoshorite deposits in which the uranium substitutes for calcium in the
phosphate (Guimond and Windham, 1975).
Domestic ores generally contain between 50 and 200 ppm uranium on
a dry weight basis (Guimond, 1977). This corresponds to 17 and 66
pCi/g of uranium-238, which is in radioactive equilibrium with its
daughter products, at least through radium-226. Non-ore fractions may
also contain elevated radionuclide concentrations. Topsoil may be
slightly elevated above background due to deposition of daughter
radionuclides from radon-222, which may diffuse upward from the ore
body at rates higher than background (USEPA, 1978).
In a recent study (Roessler and others, 1978) of the radon emis-
sions from unaltered lands in Florida, radon fluxes were measured at 26
sites in three counties. Results are presented in Technical Support
Document (TSD) V. "Rule-of-thumb" predictors of radon flux were
established based on the average radium-226 concentration in a 6-foot
core.
3.6.1.2 MCC Site Sampling Program
A radiological baseline monitoring program of the MCC property was
carried out to define existing concentrations of radioactivity in
environmental media to form the basis for the assessment of the impacts
of mining, waste disposal, and reclamation activities at the site. The
activity concentrations of those radionuclides having the most signifi-
cant impact on public health were monitored in air, soil, water, vege-
tation, and sediment. These radionuclides are uranium-238, the parent
of the uranium decay series, and its daughters, radium-226 and
3.6-1
-------
radon-222. Uranium-238 is important because of its position as parent
of the series and its abundance in phosphatig materials. Radium-226 is
important because of its long biological half-life (it replaces calcium
in bone) and its high toxicity. Radon-222, the gaseous daughter of
radium-226, also has a high toxicity, primarily due to its alpha-
emitting daughters which are inhaled along with the parent gas.
The majority of the phosphatic radioactive materials at the MCC
site are found in the surficial deposits and the Hawthorn Formation.
The highest levels of radioactivity in the Hawthorn Formation occur at
depths of 150 to 200 feet. Mining activities at the site will disturb
only the upper 100 feet of the surface so that little, if any, of the
material in the Hawthorn Formation will be redistributed. The
disturbed region is composed of several types of materials (Figure
3.6-1). The upper 15 to 20 feet consists mainly of unconsolidated,
fine to medium-fine grained, medium-sorted, unconsolidated quartz sands
(P.E. LaMoreaux and Associates, Inc., 1976). These surficial sands and
the overlaying topsoil contain little or no phosphate and little radio-
activity (Figure 3.6-2). The surficial sands are underlain by a thin
layer of leached phosphate gravel and pale, greenish-yellow clay (the
leached zone) which is depleted in calcium phosphates but contains
relatively high levels of radioactivity. Below the leach zone and
extending to a depth of about 100 feet, is the phosphate ore body or
matrix.
Depth-weighted mean radium-226 concentrations of subsurface
materials at the MCC site (in units of pCi/g dry) are: 1.0, upper
layer of overburden; 4.0, overburden (surface to top of leach zone);
23.9, leach zone (where it exists); 6.2, overburden (surface to
matrix); and 5.5, matrix.
Radium-226 in soil can be absorbed by vegetation and subsequently
be ingested by man.
Ambient (natural) external gamma radiation exposure is derived
from cosmic and soil (external terrestrial) sources. Each of these
3.6-2
-------
sources usually provides about equal exposure. Based on field measure-
ments, external terrestrial radiation is estimated to be 1.8 uR/hr at
the MCC site.
Radon originates from the decay of radium in soil and rock at a
rate dependent on the permeability of the ground cover, soil moisture
content, meteorological conditions, and other variables. Sampling at
the MCC site yielded an overall mean of 0.37 pCi/m^-sec, which is
slightly higher than data reported for the central Florida phosphate
region, but slightly lower than that for the continental United
States.
Ambient concentrations of gaseous radon-222 and radium-226 (in
particulates) depends on local source strength and on atmospheric
dispersion characteristics. Average concentrations of Rn-222 on the
site were 0.36 pCi/liter; for Ra-226, average concentrations were 0.30
fCi/m3 (0.30 pCi/liter).
Measurements were also made of Ra-226 concentrations in surface
and ground water on the site. Streams on the site do not cut deep
enough to expose the phosphate matrix and derive 25 to 40 percent of
their annual flows from the surficial aquifer. Measurements show
average surface water concentrations of 0.6 pCi/liter and average
surficial aquifer concentrations of 5.2 pCi/liter.
The concentration of dissolved radium-226 in central Florida
ground water has been the subject of numerous studies. Data obtained
in programs conducted by the USEPA and USGS indicate that the average
radium-226 concentration is highest in the Upper Floridan aquifer (2.86
pCi/liter) and about an order of magnitude less in the surficial aqui-
fer (0.22 pCi/liter). The concentration in the single MCC sample taken
from the Upper Floridan aquifer shows 7.05 pCi/liter, while site data
for the Lower Floridan aquifer range between 1.11 and 1.80 pCi/liter.
3.6-3
-------
3.6.2 Environmental Impacts
3.6.2.1 MCC's Proposed Action
The proposed mining, beneficiation, and reclamation activities
would increase radiation levels in certain environmental media as a
result of the redistribution of the radioactivity contained in
materials which presently lie below the surface of the property. In
the following section, estimates are made of these increases and of the
resulting increased exposure of people living in the vicinity of the
site.
Ambient Gamma Radiation Levels
Mining activities would cause a substantial redistribution of the
upper 100 feet of surficial materials. Though much of the total radio-
activity would be shipped off-site with the product, the remainder
would become more accessible to the surface environment. The concern
addressed in this section is potential post-reclamation exposure to
gamma radiation levels through future uses of the land, such as for
residential development. Using measurements of radium-226 levels in
MCC soils, data on mine and waste product radioactivity levels, and the
proposed mine reclamation plan, calculations were made of Ra-226 levels
for the upper six feet of reclaimed lands (Tabl-e 3.6-1). For the pro-
posed reclamation plan, Ra-226 levels would range from a low of 1.3
pd'/g for covered tail wigs to 4.9 pCi/g for covered slimes. The cor-
responding ambient gamma radiation levels are listed in Table 3.6-2.
The total gamma radiation level on covered slimes would exceed the
USEPA (1976) recommended level of 10 pR/hr , though it would be well
below the maximum level of 20 yR/hr being considered by the State of
Florida (FDHRS, 1980). Both recommended limits are designed to prevent
excessive exposures to radon-222 and its daughters in structures built
on reclaimed lands (see air quality discussion).
Air Quality
The radon fluxes from the various reclaimed land types are listed
in Table 3.6-2. Though the fluxes are up to 2.5 times the levels from
3.6-4
-------
undisturbed overburden, they are substantially less than the limit of 3
pCi/m^-sec above national background being considered by the state of
Florida (FDHRS, 1980).
The indoor radon daughter working level (WL) is used to assess the
dose to the lung resulting from inhalation of radon daughters such as
would be emitted from the reclaimed MCC lands. Three parameters, ex-
ternal terrestrial gamma exposure rates, soil Ra-226 concentrations,
and radon fluxes, are commonly used to predict indoor working levels.
Table 3.6-2 contains the averaged results of working levels predicted
on the basis of these three parameters. Though the interim standards
being considered by the State of Florida do not explicitly limit WL,
the USEPA (1979) has proposed a limit, including background, of WL
<0.020. Using a background level of 0.009 (USEPA, 1979), the WL in
buildings erected on covered slimes would exceed the proposed limit.
It should be noted that the WL limitation assumes 100 percent occupancy
in a closed residence for a full year and would not be applicable to
temporary occupation of structures on the reclaimed land.
Airborne radon concentrations and working levels were calculated
for various receptor locations at the site boundary and in Ona during
operation of the mine with and without the rock dryer and after recla-
mation of the land. The calculated increases in airborne radon concen-
trations would not be detectable above measured baseline for any phase
of the mine activity.
Airborne concentrations of radium-226 due to particulate releases
from the proposed project were also calculated, as were ground concen-
trations resulting from particulate deposition. Airborne concentration
increases would not be detectable above baseline during any phase of
the mine activity, even with maximum operation of the rock dryer.
Maximum ground concentrations during operation of the dryer are cal-
culated to be 3 percent above ambient, which is not expected to cause
measurable increases in gamma exposure rates, soil Ra-226 concentra-
tions, or radon fluxes.
3.6-5
-------
Water Qua!ity
Water quality effects were calculated only for radium-226, as this
is the most hazardous and soluble of radionuclides found in phosphatic
materials.
Surface water impacts could result from process effluent dis-
charges, seepage into collection ditches, or surface runoff. Effluent
discharge would occur only during high rainfall conditions, when over-
flow from the clear water pond is allowed. Such water is expected to
contain 1.0 pCi/1 total (suspended and dissolved) radium-226 compared
to the total of 1.8 pCi/1 observed in area streams during baseline
monitoring. The suspended solids content of pond seepage reaching
surface water would be negligible after migration through soils; the
dissolved radium-226 concentration should be <2 pCi/liter (Guimond and
Windham, 1975). Most runoff during mining operations would be col-
lected for mine use and recycling. After reclamation, the average
radium-226 concentration of surface soils is expected to increase to
3.4 pd'/g from the baseline value of 1.0 pCi/g. Since these soils are
the source of suspended solids in surface runoff, a slight increase in
suspended radium-226 concentrations may occur in streams receiving the
runoff during periods of rainfall. Data are not available to allow
estimation of the magnitude of any such increases in surface runoff
radium-226 concentrations; however, even if it is assumed that the
increase will parallel the increase in soi* radium concentration, the
USEPA guideline of 9 pCi/1 for phosphate industry effluents would not
be exceeded.
Ground water could be affected by a change in the radium-226 con-
centration in materials which contact the surficial aquifer, or by
seepage into the aquifers coupled with aquifer withdrawals. Taking
into account the mining of matrix and the relative areas of reclaimed
land types, the average radium concentration of material in contact
with the surficial aquifer is expected to decrease from 5.2 pCi/liter
to about 4.3 pCi/liter. Seepage into the aquifer from surface impound-
ments would have a minimal effect due to low suspended solids content.
3.6-6
-------
Most of the ground water withdrawals would be from the lower unit
of the Floridan aquifer, which has a lower level of radioactivity than
either the upper unit or the surficial aquifer.
Individual and Population Dose Commitments
Using data on various pathways of possible radionuclide dosages to
humans (inhalation, ingestion, and direct exposure), calculations were
made of annual individual and population dose commitments. Individual
doses were calculated for locations at the plant boundary and in Ona.
Population doses were calculated within an 80 km radius of the facil-
ity.
Individual dose commitments are expected to be highest for the
operational phase of the project with onsite rock drying, but the maxi-
mum dose calculated (0.391 mrem/year) is less than 0.5 percent of the
annual dose to the general public (82 mrem/year).
Population dose commitments are highest during the post-operation-
al phase of the project due to the larger radon source terms and high
radon gas mobility. Estimates of population dose commitments were made
using conservative assumptions that all food produced in the region is
consumed by the 1.16 million people living within 80 km of the site.
Detailed calculations of dose commitments were made only for land and
lakes reclamation with conventional waste disposal practices; total
doses (in person rems/year) after reclamation are calculated to be 3.51
(whole body), 17.1 (bone), and 4.11 (lung). These commitments are
considered negligible. For the proposed method of sand/clay capping,
the leach zone would be covered by many feet of material and dose com-
mitments would be even lower.
3.6.2.2 Alternatives
Mining Methods
Dredges - Although dredges, unlike draglines, cannot readily
separate leach zone materials from the generally less radioactive
3.6-7
-------
overlying overburden, this would not have significance for radium-226
levels on the MCC site because of the large quantity of clay which will
effectively bury any leach zone spoil (Figure 2.1-1).
Particulate emissions from mining operations would be virtually
eliminated by the use of dredges, since the overburden would be sub-
merged or handled as slurry. This would further reduce the already
insignificant dose commitments resulting from dragline mining.
Bucket Wheels - The radiological characteristics of the overburden
used for dike construction and reclamation using a bucket wheel would
be the same as that of overburden stripped by draglines. Particulate
emissions may increase if a dry method is used to transport the over-
burden to disposal areas.
Plant Site Location
The alternative plant locations, (i.e., the waste disposal cen-
troid and the mining centroid) both are to the southwest of the pro-
posed Vandolah site and would not be expected to cause any significant
increases in radiological impacts during either the post-reclamation
phase or the operational phase with off-site rock drying. This is due
to the fact that airborne emission sources in these cases are diffuse
area sources rather than point sources. Effects due to onsite rock
drying are described below.
Waste Disposal Centroid - Based on the wind frequency distribu-
tion, location of the rock dryer at the waste disposal centroid would
be expected to shift the maximum boundary individual dose commitment
location to the northwest corner of Section 19. It is expected that
individual dose commitments at Ona would be slightly less than the
maximum and that these individual dose commitments would present no
significant health hazards.
Mining Centroid - Location of the rock dryer at the mining cen-
troid would not be expected to result in any significant health
hazards. However, because of the strong easterly component of the wind
frequency distribution, this alternative would be expected to produce
3.6-8
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the highest individual dose commitments at Ona of all the rock dryer
locations considered.
Matrix Transport
Conveyors - Use of an enclosed conveyor to transport matrix to the
beneficiation plant would be expected to result in a slight increase in
release rates of airborne particulates and therefore a slight increase
in airborne and ground level radium-226 concentrations. Information is
not available to quantify the increase.
Trucks - Use of trucks to transport matrix to the beneficiation
plant would be expected to result in a substantial increase in airborne
particulates. Since these heavy trucks would traverse undisturbed
areas, the additional particulates would contain relatively little
radioactivity, however, and would be similar to particulates released
from draglines operation. If particulate release rates are assumed to
equal those from dragline operations, dose commitments would increase
to levels roughly equal to those estimated for the operational phase
with on-site rock drying.
Beneficiation
Dry Separation - Although quantitative estimates of particulate
emissions from dry separation processing are not available, it is ex-
pected that they would exceed emissions from the rock dryer and result
in higher individual dose commitments at all receptor locations.
Direct Acidulation - This experimental process is not currently
available. Since it requires drying and grinding of the matrix, it is
not expected to represent a reduction in particulate emissions compared
to the proposed action.
Water Sources
Water source alternatives involve variations in the percentages of
water withdrawn from surface water and the Lower Floridan aquifer.
Although the dissolved radium-226 concentration of surface water is
about half that of the Lower Floridan aquifer, both concentrations are
3.6-9
-------
low (<2 pCi/liter) and insufficient surface water is available to make
a significant difference in the radium-226 concentrations of the
overflow and seepage waters.
Liquid Effluents
In all proposed and alternative actions, engineering designs are
such that the only source of liquid effluents is expected to be
overflow from the clear water holding pond during periods of extremely
heavy rainfall. Since suspended and dissolved radium-226
concentrations are at a minimum in the holding pond, no significant
impacts are expected.
Rock Drying
Drying the phosphate rock onsite increase both radon gas and
radium-226 (in particulates) emissions; consequently, individual and
population dose commitments are increased. However, all of the in-
creases are at most a few percent of natural background levels and
would not be detectable or significant to public health.
Shipping wet rock to customers which require dry rock (such as
MCC's Pascagoula facility) would simply shift the radionuclide
emissions associated with rock drying to other locations.
Waste Disposal - Reclamation
Conventional Waste Disposal with Land and Lakes Reclamation - This
alternative is evaluated in detail in TSD-V. It represents the worst
case from the standpoint of radiological impacts. The evaluation
assumed four-foot thick overburden covers, with leach zone intermixed,
on all reclaimed waste disposal areas (Table 3.6-1). Radon releases
were found to be nearly twice those of the MCC proposed action. Both
terrestrial gamma radiation levels and calculated indoor working levels
exceed (or nearly exceed) recommended limitations on reclaimed slimes
and tailings. Airborne concentrations of radon and of radium-226 would
be slightly elevated compared to the proposed action. Resulting
3.6-10
-------
individual and population dose commitments were found to be negli-
gible.
Sand/Clay Mixing (Sand/Clay Ratio = 2:1) - This alternative cannot
be implemented at the MCC facility because of the low sand content of
the matrix. If it were to be implemented, radiological impacts would
fall between those of the proposed plan and land and lakes reclamation,
based on the radium-226 concentration of 2.3 pCi/g of the sand/clay mix
to be used for cover material.
F1peculation - Flocculation of waste slimes to speed settling
might increase radon flux by a few percent as the result of an increase
in the effective diffusion coefficient. The magnitude of any increase
in flux would be best determined by direct measurement.
Preservation Alternatives
Preserving large areas of wetlands at the mine site would reduce
the amount of phosphate ore mined and beneficiated. For example, two
of 'the alternative preservation plans would remove about 30 percent of
the mineable resources from development. This would reduce emissions
of radionuclides and also eliminate redistribution of radioactive
materials on those lands.
Product Transport
Conveyor - An 80 km conveyor would be prohibitively expensive and
result in particulate releases not encountered with other options.
Truck - Shipment of product in closed trucks is expected to
produce airborne emissions of radioactivity equivalent to shipment in
closed rail cars.
No Action
If the MCC site were not mined, no change in present levels of
radioactivity and radionuclide releases would occur. However, it has
been shown that, with the exception of possible excess ambient gamma
radiation levels and indoor working levels in buildings constructed on
3.6-11
-------
covered slimes, no detectable adverse impacts are expected from the
proposed action.
Postponement
Development of economically sound technologies to extract addi-
tional phosphate values from waste clays is an area of active research.
Since the radioactivity of beneficiated products and wastes normally
follows the phosphate content, such technologies could ultimately re-
duce radon releases from waste clays. However, while such technologies
may be economical for mines with high grade matrix, it is doubtful that
the cost of applying such methods to the low grade materials from the
MCC site would justify any resultant decrease in radon releases.
3.6.3 Mitigation
The only potential adverse effect which may require mitigation is
the excess working level (WL) expected, based on radon daughter concen-
trations inside closed structures which might one day be built on
covered clay slime wastes (4,952 acres). Approximately 4,100 acres of
slime ponds would be covered with a 4-foot sand/clay cap which would
reduce indoor WL's (marginally) below recommended limits.
Additional mitigation could be in either of three forms: (1) ad-
ditional coverage with sand tailings or other low radioactivity
material to a depth sufficient to lower WL throughout the whole site;
(2) selective placement of topsoil as part of landscaping and founda-
tion work should future land use plans result in construction of resi-
dences on these lands; or (3) zoning to prevent construction of full-
time residences on reclaimed lands which are determined to exceed
recommended limits.
3.6-12
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TABLE 3.6-1
RADIUM-226 CONCENTRATIONS OF MATERIALS ON MCC SITE
BEFORE AND AFTER RECLAMATION (pCi/g)
Reclaimed Lands0
Baseline Conditions3
Undisturbed 1.0
Overburden
(0-6 ft.)
Total Overburden 6.2
including leached
zone
Total Overburden, 4.0
excluding leached
zone
Matrix 5.5
Mine Products and
Wastes
Product 15.6
Clay Slimes 5.1'
Sand Tailings 0.8
Sand/Clay Cap 1.3b
MCC's
Proposed Plan
Capped Slimesd 2.6
Covered SIimese 4.9
Covered Tailings6 1.3
aDepth-weight arithmetic averages.
bSand/clay ratio = 8:1.
Activities are averaged over the upper six feet of material.
dBased on 4-foot thick sand/clay cap.
6Based on 1-foot thick overburden (excluding leach zone) cover.
fBased on 4 feet of overburden (including leach zone) cap.
Conventional
Method
Slimes'
5.8
Tailings^ 4.4
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TABLE 3.6-2
SUMMARY OF RADIOLOGICAL PARAMETERS - SAND/CLAY MIX CAP
RECLAMATION PLAN (PROPOSED)
Ra-226 Concentration
Total Gamma
Indoor
Reclaimed Land
Type
Undisturbed
Overburen
Capped Slimes
Covered Slimes
Covered Tailings
Site Average
Acres9
4,530
4,093
4,952
1,275
in Upper Six Feet
(pCi/q)
1.0
2.6
4.9
1.3
2.8
Exposure Rate"
(uR/hr)
5.3 (1.8)
8.2 (4.7)
12.3 (8.8)
5.8 (2.3)
8.5 (5.0)
Radon Flux
(pCi/m2-sec)
0.53
0.70
1.32
0.35
0.82
Working Level
(WL)
0.0057
0.0097
0.015
0.0060
0.010
Approximately 400 acres of lakes excluded. This is a conservative assumption because
radioactive releases from lakes are near zero.
bExternal terrestrial contribution given in parentheses.
cDoes not include background.
-------
0 INDICATES MEAN SEA LEVEL
Note: Vertical scale in feet. Scale expanded between 80 and 85 feet.
Source: MCC, 1977.
BED HOCK
Figure 3.6-1. Subsurface Structure of the MCC Site.
-------
GROUND SURFACE
100 -
-20
024 6 8 IO
02 4 6 8 10 12
O 2 4 6 8 IO
0 2 4 « 8 10
//R/hr
Figure 3.6-2. Direct Gamma Radiation (/*R/hr) in Composite Soil Cores.
-------
REFERENCES
Florida Department of Health and Rehabilitative Services, 1980. Draft
technical guide 1: Interim radiation exposure and concentration
limits for land use determination of naturally occurring radio-
activity.
Guimond, R.J., 1977. The radiological aspects of fertilizer utiliza-
tion. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Radiation
Programs.
Guimond, R.J. and S.T. Windham, 1975. Radioactivity distribution in
phosphate products, by-products, effluents, and wastes. Prepared
for U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Radiation
Programs. Technical Note ORP/CSD-75-3.
Mississippi Chemical Corporation, 1977. Application for approval for
development of regional impact. Report prepared by Environmental
Engineering Services, Inc., Gainesville, Florida.
P.E. LaMoreaux and Associates, Inc., 1976. Water resource evaluation.
Prepared for: Mississippi Chemical Corporation.
Roessler, C.E., J.A. Wethington, and W.E. Bolch, 1978. Radioactivity
of lands and associated structures, volume I, University of
Florida. Submitted to Florida Phosphate Council.
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, 1976. National interim primary
drinking water regulations. EPA-570/9-76-003.
, 1978. Final areawide environmental impact statement -
central Florida phosphate industry, volume II, EPA-904/9-78-026b.
, 1979. Draft environmental impact statement, Estech General
Chemical Corporation, Duette Mine, Manatee County, Florida,
radiological environment resource document. EPA-570/9-76-044G.
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4.0 OTHER NEPA CONSIDERATIONS (MCC'S PROPOSED ACTION)
4.1 UNAVOIDABLE ADVERSE IMPACTS
Discussed below is a brief summary of the adverse environmental
impacts which cannot be avoided by any practical means during the
construction and operation of the MCC phosphate mining project. Except
as noted, these impacts are considered to be minor or negligible.
4.1.1 Geology/Soils
Modification of Soils
Approximately 10,700 acres of land would be mined or used for
waste disposal. Existing soils would be displaced by soils having the
following composition: sand/clay mixture in the ratio 2:1 (4,093
acres), clay slimes with partial sand tailings/overburden cap (4,952
acres), sand tailings with partial overburden cap (1,677 acres).
Topography
Approximately 2,176 acres of land would be raised to a final (as
settled) elevation approximately 40 to 45 feet above-grade; an addi-
tional 1,447 acres would have a final elevation of 25 feet above-grade.
All other portions of the site would remain at, or be returned to,
approximately original grade.
4.1.2 Surface Water Resources
Reduction of Streamflow
During mining, certain parcels of land would be periodically
removed from the natural drainage. Flow would be reduced in streams
tributary to such areas during these periods. Rain falling into the
open pits, clay storage areas, and tailings disposal ponds would also
be occluded from streamflow during the active mining phase.
Diversion of Streamflow
Surface water in excess of 3.25 cfs would be diverted from Brushy
Creek to an offstream storage basin to provide part of the make-up
4.1-1
-------
water needed for mining operations. The total diversion represents a
26 percent reduction of the average natural flow of Brushy Creek at the
point where it exits the mine site property.
Effluent Discharge
Discharges to Oak Creek could occur at certain times of the year
as a result of overflow from the clear water pond. Rain falling onto
open mine pits, clay storage areas, the clear water pond, and plant
site runoff would all contribute to the overflow.
L.oca1 Water Quality Degradation
Sediment from parcels of land cleared of vegetation could result
in local water quality degradation. The sediment would result in an
increase in turbidity and solids deposition into the streams receiving
mine site drainage. Clear water pond effluent may cause exceedance of
stream water quality standards for specific conductivity and for oil
and grease. Local water quality changes could also occur as a result
of seepage from clay settling areas; degradation of water quality could
result from accidental spillage of waste clays due to the rupture of a
clay slurry pipeline at a location near a stream, or a possible clay
storage embankment failure.
4.1.3 Ground Water Resources
Withdrawal and Consumptive Use
Ground water withdrawals from the lower unit of the Floridan aqui-
fer would lower potentiometric levels in the aquifer near the pumping
wells. As these drawdown levels are relatively small, the potentio-
metric surface within the lower unit of the Floridan aquifer would not
be significantly affected. Approximately 14,084,640 gpd of the total
make-up water required for the project would be consumptively used and
not returned to the hydrogeologic system. Since the consumptive use is
less than the excess annual precipitation, the withdrawals should not
result in a long-term negative effect on water quantities at the site.
Ground water withdrawals from the upper unit of the Floridan
aquifer for potable and pump seal uses are projected to be 430,080 gpd;
4.1-2
-------
these withdrawals would not adversely stress the upper Floridan aquifer
or the shallow aquifer.
Mine Dewatering Impacts
As a result of dewatering mine pits, shallow aquifer water levels
would be lowered in the vicinity of mine cuts. The impacts from mine
cut dewatering would be temporary and local.
4.1.4 Terrestrial Biology
Approximately 8,182 acres of upland habitats on the MCC property
would be directly affected due to mining, waste disposal, and facility
construction. Flora and fauna of the site would be affected due to the
temporary dewatering activities, loss of habitat due to mining activi-
ties, and activities related to mining such as construction of site
roads.
4.1.5 Wetlands and Aquatic Habitat
The proposed mining activities would directly affect 2,540 acres
of existing fresh water swamps and marshes and four miles of 5 cfs '
stream beds. There would be consequent significant declines in biota,
changes in hydrology and/or deterioration of water quality, and stress
on adjacent communities for fauna already existing on the site.
Dewatering would also produce additional stresses upon the site's plant
and animal communities.
The diversion of stream flow into new channels prior to mining
would enable relocation of the majority of fish and mobile benthic
forms, but non-mobile benthic forms would be destroyed. The isolation
of stream pockets created after flow diversion would create additional
loss of fish and benthos. Runoff water would transport suspended
solids from erosion into the aquatic habitats on the site. This silta-
tion would have short-term adverse effects, such as reduction of light
penetration and lowered photosynthesis, smothering of benthic or-
ganisms, destruction of spawning areas, and abrasion and clogging of
fish gills.
4.1-3
-------
4.1.6 Threatened or Endangered Species
Unavoidable adverse impacts on several federally or state-listed
threatened or endangered species might occur as a result of habitat
loss and/or disturbance from mining activities.
4.1.7 Air Resources
Mining and beneficiation would result in an unavoidable increase
in particulate and SC^ emissions at the mine site. There would be
some degradation of air quality locally, but all air quality standards
would be met. Increases in fluoride deposition would not be sufficient
to cause any harm to vegetation or water supplies. No health or
aesthetic impacts would result from the expected emissions.
4.1.8 Socioeconomics
A slight increase in traffic levels on local roads and highways is
expected to occur due to the mining activities. No adverse social or
economic impacts are expected from the project.
4.1.9 Land Use
There are approximately 14,850 acres of land on the MCC site. The
total acreage to be mined and/or used for waste disposal is anticipated
to be about 10,700 acres. This land would later be reclaimed for
similar or higher uses than at present; therefore, loss of land is only
temporary.
4.1.10 Historic and Archeologic Resources
The archeological "and historical sites identified on the MCC tract
would be altered during mining operations to the extent that the value
of the sites would be lost. The findings of the archeological survey
indicate that only one site may warrant preservation. This specific
site is being considered for excavation or intensive testing to recover
archeological data prior to mining.
4.1.11 Noise
Noise contributions from mining operations would be considered an
unavoidable adverse impact. Noise levels at the site boundary are
4.1-4
-------
expected to be below the USEPA suggested short-term goal for residen-
tial areas.
4.1.12 Radiology
Individual and population dose commitments would increase in an
amount which would not be distinguishable from background exposures.
After reclamation, clay slimes disposal sites on the MCC mine site
might emit sufficient radioactivity to exceed indoor radon daughter
working levels proposed by the USEPA. If measurements confirmed this,
there would be a necessity for either special precautions prior to
constructing residences on such lands (such as topsoil addition), or of
zoning to exclude residential construction.
4.1-5
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4.2 RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN SHORT-TERM USES OF MAN'S ENVIRONMENT AND THE
MAINTENANCE AND ENHANCEMENT OF LONG-TERM PRODUCTIVITY
4.2.1 Land Use
4.2.1.1 Long-Term Pre-Emptive Use of Land
The proposed mining project would utilize a site comprising about
14,850 acres in Hardee County, Florida for a period of 31 years. About
28 percent of this area would be left in its present state. Cattle
grazing, the predominant land use on the MCC property, probably would
continue to the year 2000. Reclaimed land would be restored to agri-
cultural purposes, or to wetlands, as the mining project proceeds. At
the completion of mining activities, the entire site area would be
suitable for development due to continued reclamation activities as
mining proceeded; at that time, the land could be utilized once again
for agricultural purposes.
4.2.1.2 Regional Significance of Pre-Emptive Land Use
The 14,850 acre site required by MCC represents almost 4 percent
of Hardee County's total land area. Land in Hardee County is used
primarily for agricultural purposes. More than 75 percent of the
county is in citrus, pasture, rangeland, and cropland, while only about
1 percent of the county is urbanized. Since the MCC site is less than
4 percent of the total land area in Hardee County, the developed pre-
emptive land use for mining activities is not expected to have any
measurable short-term effect on land availability or use in Hardee
County. As indicated above, the reclaimed land would be available for
virtually the same uses as at present, with the exception that re-
claimed clay storage areas might not be suitable for building
construction.
4.2.2 Water Use
4.2.2.1 Use of Ground Water
During the first three years of mining, water withdrawal would be
from the Floridan aquifer; total withdrawal is limited to 16,981,920
4.2-1
-------
gallons per day (gpd) on an annual average basis and 34,280,000 gpd on
a maximum daily basis. After the first three years, surface water
would be withdrawn to reduce ground water withdrawals: surface waters
from Brushy Creek Basin would supply 5,086,000 gpd, and the Floridan
aquifer would supply 12,324,000 gpd, both on an annual average basis.
Ground water use due to mining operations is expected to have only
a slight effect on nearby wells. The maximum drawdown at the site
boundaries is projected to be about 3.3 feet. As a result, the
potentiometric surface in the lower unit of the Floridan aquifer would
not be significantly affected by mining operations. Pumping tests
showed that the water levels in the upper unit of the Floridan aquifer
and shallow water table aquifer were not affected by production with-
drawals. The slight drawdown effects at the property boundary would be
incurred only during the life of the mining operations. No permanent
change in the aquifer is expected.
4.2.2.2 Use of Surface Water
During mining operations, surface water would be diverted from
Brushy Creek to reduce ground water withdrawals. Surface water would
be diverted to Brushy Creek Reservoir, which would be in operation by
the fourth year of mining. Surface water from Brushy Creek Basin would
supply 5,086,000 gpd on an annual average basis. The results of a
simulation analysis showed a 26 percent reduction of the natural aver-
age flow of Brushy Creek at the point where it exits the mine site
property. Minimum average flow rates have been established by SWFWMD
for each month of the year; withdrawals could not reduce flows' below
these levels.
4.2.2.3 Consumptive Use of Water Resources
Approximately 14,084,640 gpd of the total make-up water required
for the project would be consumptively used (entrapped in clay wastes,
sand tailings and product) and not returned to the hydrogeologic
system. The consumptive use is approximately 96 percent of the excess
annual precipitation (water crop) falling on the site. The water
withdrawals should not result in a long-term negative effect on water
4.2-2
-------
quantities at the site since the consumptive use is less than the water
crop.
4.2.3 Use of Air Resources
During the period of plant construction and phosphate matrix
mining and beneficiation, there would be increased emissions of gases
and particulates to the atmosphere. These emissions and the resulting
ambient concentrations would not exceed established state or federal
standards. At the conclusion of mining operations, emissions would
cease, and no long-term effect on atmospheric resources is projected to
occur.
4.2.4 Energy Use
The project would require energy for construction, mining, product
transport, land reclamation, and other purposes throughout its dura-
tion. These expenditures are estimated in Section 4.3. The energy
utilized would not be retrievable and would represent a diminution of
resources available for future use.
4.2.5 Biology
Mining of the phosphate reserves on MCC land in Hardee County
would result in the displacement and loss of numerous plant, animal,
and avian species from the project boundaries. As mining would take
place gradually over the plant lifetime, and reclamation would be
initiated as soon as parcels of land were no longer needed for mining
or waste disposal, a substantial population of various species would
remain on the site throughout the project lifetime. Following reclama-
tion, it is expected that habitats could support basically the same
types and numbers of biological species as at present. It is possible,
however, that certain threatened or endangered species would not re-
populate the area because of limited reproducing populations in the
area.
4.2-3
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4.3 IRREVERSIBLE AND IRRETRIEVABLE COMMITMENTS OF RESOURCES
It is anticipated that mining on the MCC tract would remove
94.5 x 10^ tons of phosphate rock during 31.5 years of mining
activities. On a yearly basis, 3 x 106 tons per year of phosphate
rock would be mined. Associated with the removal of the phosphate rock
would be removal of uranium. Uranium on site comprises 75 ppm of
phosphate ore; therefore, it is projected that 1.26 tons of uranium
would be removed during project lifetime mining activities. The
phosphate rock would be processed for useful purposes, but all of the
uranium resource would be lost except that which was recovered from the
phosphoric acid plants.
Another irretrievable loss would be the consumption of electricity
and fuels for mining and beneficiation purposes. The two draglines
would require 230.4 x 106 KWH/hr or 7.26 x 109 KWH consumed over
the life of the mine. The electricity demands of the phosphate
grinder, rock dryer, and handling systems are projected to be 40.0 x
106 KWH/yr or 1.26 x 109 KWH consumed over the life of the plant.
The rock dryer would also consumptively use fuel oil at 223,000 bbl/yr
or 7.02 million barrels over the life of the plant. Other major uses
of fuel oil would be for product transport to the chemical plants.
Assuming all the beneficiated rock were transported a distance equiva-
lent to that between the mine and Pascagoula, Mississippi, fuel oil
consumption would be 11.7 million barrels. The consumption of the fuel
oil and the fossil fuel necessary to generate the electricity required
for the two draglines and the rock dryer would constitute an irrever-
sible and irretrievable commitment of resources.
Chemical consumption associated with processing the phosphate ore
for fertilizer, sulfur, and ammonia would also represent irretrievable
commitments of resources. The table below indicates estimated consump-
tion of various chemicals per year and for the life of the mine.
4.3-1
-------
Chemical Per Year Life of Mine
Fuel oil and kerosene 14,700 tons 463,050 tons
Caustic soda 3,000 tons 94,500 tons
Tall oil (flotation) 5,700 tons 179,550 tons
Sulfuric acid 6,000 tons 189,000 tons
Amine 750 tons 23,625 tons
Diesel fuel (dike 2.3 xlQ6 gal/yr 72.5 x 10^ gal
construction and
reclamation)
Consumptive water use for the project is estimated at 14,084,640
gpd. This is equivalent to 5.14 x 109 gallons per year, or 161.9 x
109 gallons during the project lifetime.
Mining of the MCC tract would limit future land use options to
some degree, even after reclamation requirements were fulfilled. The
MCC property encompasses 14,850 acres. The designated acreage that
would be used in mining and clay storage is 10,722 acres. After recla-
mation, 8,182 acres would be restored to uplands, and 2,010 acres would
be reclaimed as wetlands. There would be a 530-acre loss in wetlands
on the MCC tract. Reclaimed clay storage lands (up to 3,700 acres)
would probably be restricted to agricultural land uses due to limits
imposed from overburden pressures.
Archeological sites on the MCC tract would be altered or destroyed
by mining activities. The artifacts may be recovered from the one site
considered for excavation or intensive testing before mining is begun.
4.3-2
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4.4 CONFLICTS BETWEEN MCC'S PROPOSED ACTION AND THE OBJECTIVES OF
FEDERAL. REGIONAL, STATE, AND LOCAL PLANS
Applicable permits, approvals, and plans with which the proposed
action is or may potentially be in conflict are described below.
Although the MCC proposed action is not in apparent conflict with many
of the permits and approvals which are listed, they were included in
the discussion for the sake of completeness.
4.4.1 Federal
4.4.1.1 Central Florida Phosphate Industry Areawide EIS Recommenda-
tions
The Final Areawide Environmental Impact Statement for the Central
Florida Phosphate Industry published by the USEPA in November 1978
evaluated the impact of various alternative scenarios of phosphate
mining in central Florida. The USEPA recommendations represent a
generalized scenario of phosphate development which was determined to
be as compatible as practicable with other desired and intended land
uses. This document provides a basis for comparison and evaluation of
new source phosphate mines in central Florida.
The following discussion compares the proposed activity with the
USEPA recommendations for mining and beneficiation. The FEIS recom-
mendations and clarifying statements are italicized and are followed by
a description of the proposed activity.
0 Eliminate the rock-drying processing at beneficiation plants and
transport wet C 6- 20 percent moisture) rock to chemical
plants.
Only rock to be utilised in triple superphosphate, elemental
phosphorus, defluorinated rock feed, or other fertilizer pro-
cesses requiring dry rock would be dried - and this would occur
at the chemical process-ing complex or at dryers permitted by DER
prior to publication of the DEIS. A possible exception on a
case-by-case basis could be made for rock to be shipped outside
of Florida for chemical processing; if the energy for
4.4-1
-------
transporting the moisture were greater than the energy saved by
eliminating drying, drying at the benefiaiation plant would be
considered if air quality (including radiation) could fee ade-
quately protected.
MCC proposes to construct and operate a rock dryer at the Hardee
County mine. The rock dryer would be capable of drying all of the rock
produced. The planned mode of operation would be to dry all of the
rock shipped to MCC's Pascagoula plant (1 million tons annually) and as
much of the other 2 million tons produced per year as was required.
MCC would seek customers for wet rock so that a minimum amount of rock
could be dried at the site.
The proposed drying facility is made necessary by MCC's need for
dry rock and by market conditions. Total acceptance of wet rock as the
basic form of the phosphate rock commodity on the world market is not
expected for some time. Many users have small phosphoric acid plants,
and the designs vary widely. This situation makes conversion to wet
rock not only expensive, but technically difficult. Conversion to wet
rock also requires installation of wet rock grinding capacity in addi-
tion to major wet phosphoric acid process design changes. Significant-
ly, capital for the modification is not readily available in many
developing countries.
Some dry rock is used to produce triple superphosphate (TSP);
there is no wet rock process for the production of TSP. If drying at
the acid plant were required, small dryers would likely be installed at
the individual locations. The small dryers would be inefficient and
very expensive compared to the large units used by rock producers.
Given the present state of demand for phosphate rock, shipment of
wet rock from MCC's Hardee County mine would be both the most costly
(in terms of total system costs) and most energy intensive alternative.
As a comparison, investment savings realized by MCC with onsite rock
drying would be $10 to $20 million, compared to wet rock shipment from
the mine; annual operating cost savings are expected to be between $2
4.4-2
-------
and $5 million. A similar comparison of energy use indicates an annual
savings of 13,000 barrels of No. 6 fuel oil (equivalent) compared to
drying the rock at Pascagoula and 110,000 barrels compared to proces-
sing wet rock into fertilizer. When a sufficient market demand for wet
rock developed (i.e., wet rock processing capacity at chemical plants),
elimination of drying would become the most economical and energy
efficient alternative.
Since the Areawide EIS study was undertaken, important study as-
sumptions relative to air quality were changed by a significant action
of the United States Congress. The Clean Air Act Amendments of 1977
require the application of Best Available Control Technology (BACT) to
all significant sources and source modifications which have the poten-
tial to deteriorate air quality. The recommendation to eliminate rock
drying in the Areawide EIS was based upon greater allowable source
emission rates than are now permitted by USEPA Prevention of Signifi-
cant Deterioration (PSD) regulations promulgated under the 1977 Amend-
ments. For example, study assumptions for particulate matter were
limited by allowable emission rates as provided for in the Florida
Administrative Code (FAC 17-2.05,2, Process Weight Table). This rule
permitted particulate emissions at least twice as great as those al-
lowed under the PSD Regulations. A conclusion of the Areawide EIS
proposed action was that the phosphate industry pollutant contribution
would remain relatively constant after 1977. However, the PSD regula-
tions suggest that the contribution should decrease as new processing
facilities are constructed and older, less efficient control systems
are replaced with new technology.
By establishing maximum increments of allowable deterioration, the
PSD regulations effectively restrict availability of the air resource.
Once the available resource is consumed by competing interests, no
significant additional source effect can be permitted without a cor-
responding reduction in effect from another source.
Thus, under present PSD regulations, the objective of the Areawide
EIS to protect air quality would be attained by an enforceable and
4.4-3
-------
pervasive system of air quality controls that exerts influence over all
major industrial source contributions. The rock dryers proposed for
the MCC facility would utilize wet contact scrubbers to reduce emis-
sions of particulate matter and sulfur dioxide to levels well below
state and federal standards. The application of BACT would also mini-
mize the pollutant concentration levels of airborne radiation. As a
result, all applicable air quality standards and PSD increments would
be met by the proposed facility.
° Meet state of Florida and local effluent limitations for any
discharges.
Pursuant to Section 401 9f the Federal Water Pollution Control
Act as amended (33 USC 1251, 1341), the State of Florida issues
certification to each applicant for a National Pollutant Discharge
Elimination System permit.
All recent NPDES permits issued by the state for phosphate
mining facilities have been certified subject to the following condi-
tions:
1. The applicant must comply with all applicable requirements
of Chapter 403, Florida Statutes and Chapter 17 series,
Florida Administrative Code (FAC).
2. Issuance of certification does not constitute state certifi-
cation of any future land alteration activities which re-
quire other federal permits pursuant to Section 404 of P.L.
92-500, as amended, nor does it constitute approval or
disapproval of any future land alteration activities con-
ducted in waters of the state which require separate
department permit(s)) pursuant to Section 17-4.28, FAC.
3. In accordance with Section 17-6.01(2)(a)2a.D., FAC, the
following effluent limitations apply to all discharges
designated as possibly containing contaminated runoff,
process generated wastewater, or mine dewatering discharges
from the mining and beneficiation of phosphate rock:
4.4-4
-------
Discharge Monitoring
Characteristic Limitations Requirements
1-Day30-Day
Max Avg
TSS (mg/1) 60 30 l/week/24-hr composite
Total Fixed 25 12 l/week/24-hr composite
Solids
Total P (mg/1) 5 3 l/week/24-hr composite
pH 6.0-9.0 6.0-9.0 I/week grab
If the above requirements are met, the discharge from this
facility would comply with Sections 301, 302, and 303 of the Federal
Water Pollution Control Act, as amended.
The Florida Department of Environmental Regulation reserves the
right to modify the effluent limitations placed on each facility pur-
suant to federal and state law. Modifications may occur should further
water quality analysis of the proposed discharge, its volume, and
character, together with the flow and characteristics of the receiving
body of water, indicate that the discharge would not meet and comply
with applicable water quality standards contained in Chapter 17-3,
Florida Administrative Code.
Effluent limits and any additional requirements specified in the
state certification supersede any less stringent effluent limits in the
NPDES permit. During any time period in which more stringent state
certification effluent limits are stayed or inoperable, the effluent
limits listed in the NPDES permit will be in effect and fully enforce-
able.
MCC's proposed clear water pond effluent is expected to meet all
of these discharge limitations.
° Eliminate conventional aboveground slime-disposal areas.
The mining and reclamation plan for new source mines should
establish a method whereby the slimes (or slimes/tailings
mixture) would be used for reclamation or some other purpose.
The need for an initial aboveground storage area is recognized -
4.4-5
-------
as is the need for small retaining dikes around certain areas
reclaimed with a slimes/tailings mixture. If the percentage of
waste clay at a mine exceeds the proportionate amount that can
be utilized, the incremental amounts beyond that which can be
handled by new slime-dewatering methods may be placed in a
holding pond for reclamation after adequate settling.
MCC has determined that the sand to clay ratio at the site is
insufficient to allow complete sand/clay mix waste disposal. In their
mine plan, MCC has instead committed to use a modification of the con-
ventional aboveground waste disposal method. The modification consists
of stage-filling the clay disposal areas to obtain increased settling,
followed by placement of an approximately 4-foot thick sand/clay cap
with a ratio of approximately eight parts sand to one part clay. Sand
tailings would be used for capping, backfill, and dike construction.
Tailings disposal areas would be covered with a partial overburden
cap.
As a result of this method, aboveground storage would be limited
to approximately 3,700 acres. Approximately 60 percent of this area
would have a final elevation 40 to 45 feet above grade; the remainder
would be 25 feet above grade. Only approximately 400 acres of lakes
would be created by this disposal/reclamation method.
° Meet Southwest Florida Water Management District consumptive-use
permit requirements.
Withdrawals of ground water from the Floridan aquifer would be
limited to those rates and locations specified in the Consumptive Use
Permit (No. 27703567) granted by the Southwest Florida Water Management
District (SWFWMD) on May 4, 1977.
The permit includes details of well location and pumping rates
in the deep ground water system and places restrictions upon effects in
both the shallow and deep ground water systems. The permit also speci-
fies an annual average limitation on surface water withdrawals from
Brushy Creek, as a supplement for ground water withdrawal beginning in
4.4-6
-------
the fourth year of mine operation. Specific minimum average monthly
flows of water in Brushy Creek are set. MCC would not be allowed to
withdraw surface water when flows fell below the specified minimum.
MCC is obligated to the terms and conditions of the Consumptive
Use Permit. Should MCC fail to comply with all of the conditions set
forth in the permit, then the permit would automatically become null
and void.
° Provide storage that allows recirculation of water recovered
from slimes.
Storage capacity is to be determined during the pending DRI
and/or site-specific EIS based on local hydrologic character-
istics. The designed storage capacity should allow for capture
of 100 percent of water recovered from slimes for reuse.
A total of 147.06 million gallons per day (mgd) of water would
enter the clay settling areas in the slurry pipeline; an additional
1.75 mgd (average) would be contributed by excess rainfall. Of this
amount, 1.24 mgd would be lost to seepage, and 16.85 mgd would be lost
to evaporation and clay absorption, leaving 130.72 mgd for return to
the clear water pond. An additional 8.79 mgd would be captured in the
clear water pond from product and non-clay waste storage. During most
time periods, 100 percent of this water would be returned to the pro-
cess system. However, during high rainfall periods, some overflow
would occur; on a long-term average, the effluent discharge is esti-
mated to be 2.31 mgd, so that the recovery rate would be 98.3 percent.
° Use connector wells.
Such wells offer an economical means of dewatering the shallow
ground water from the water table aquifer before mining, while
replenishing a portion of the water pumped from the Floridan
Aquifer for the purposes of transportation and beneficiation.
Mining plans for new-source mines can continue to utilize this
method of dewatering - but only with the following precautionary
measures: maximum utilization of water obtained from
4.4-7
-------
dewatering; monitoring by both industry and regulatory agencies
to assure that the drained water meets recommended drinking
water criteria chemically, bacteriologically, and radiologically
at all times; and assurance that wells will be adequately
cemented and grouted before being abandoned.
MCC does not plan to use connector wells for recharge of the
underlying artesian Floridan aquifer. Only one relatively small 200
acres) portion of the MCC site has a high enough transmissivity in the
surficial aquifer to make such a recharge program feasible. This area
could provide only 125 to 200 gpm (0.18 to 0.29 mgd) of recharge water
(P.E. LaMoreaux & Associates, 1977). Instead, MCC plans to supplement
Floridan aquifer withdrawals by collection of excess rainfall and by
utilization of a portion (26 percent of annual average) of the surface
water flow in Brushy Creek.
° Address proposed regulations regarding radiation levels to be
published by EPA and projected by mining and reclamation plans
for new source mines based on test borings of material to be
encountered. The DRI and/or site-specific EIS should also
develop a reclamation plan that considers radiation of spoil
material and reduces as much as possible the amount of radio-
nuclide-bearing material left within 3-4 feet of the surface.
The projected indoor radon daughter working levels (WL) by land
type for the MCC mine after reclamation are as follows: undisturbed
overburden, 0.0057 WL; capped slimes, 0.0097 WL; covered slimes, 0.015
WL; covered tailings, 0.006 WL; and the weighted site average, 0.010
WL. Using a background level of 0.009 WL (normal background of 0.004
WL plus the uncertainty of 0.005 WL), portions of the MCC site might
exceed the limit of 0.020 WL proposed by the USEPA (1979). MCC's pro-
posal to utilize sand/clay caps for waste disposal and to maximize the
reclamation of at-grade land yields predicted working levels below the
USEPA standards on all but reclaimed slime areas (which are not suit-
able for building foundations). If future development plans call for
4.4-8
-------
development of these reclaimed slime areas, site measurements would be
warranted to determine whether topsoil should be placed on that portion
of the site.
° Meet county and state reclamation requirements and include in
the DEI and/'or site-specific EIS an inventory of types of wild-
life habitat in the area to be mined and the area immediately
surrounding it.
and
° The mining and reclamation plan will take into account the
protection and restoration of habitat so selected important
species of wildlife will be adequately protected during mining
and reclamation.
Wildife habitats, with their associated fauna and flora, are
described in detail in the Biology Technical Support Document (TSD II)
and summarized in Section 3.3 of the DEIS. A total of 2,540 acres of
wetlands would be affected by the proposed action; 2,010 acres are
planned to be reclaimed. Of the upland habitats on the site, 9,825
acres would be affected; all of this area would be reclaimed as pasture
land except that which was used for aboveground structures. Approxi-
mately 440 acres of wetlands and 2,045 acres of uplands, including 12
of the 30 acres of unique xeric hammock, would be unaffected by mining
activities. Mining and reclamation would be undertaken in stages.
County and state reclamation requirements, specifically those of
the Hardee County Board of Commissioners and the Florida Department of
Veterans and Community Affairs (formerly the Division of State Plan-
ning) of the Bureau of Land and Water Management, would be met by the
proposed plan of action through the Florida Development Order which was
approved on March 17, 1981. The Development Order provides for condi-
tional preservation of certain hardwood swamps and fresh marshes, which
may be mined following the presentation of satisfactory evidence to
support the feasibility of restoration of these wetlands.
4.4-9
-------
The Development Order also states that the proposed MCC develop-
ment is consistent with all local and state land development laws and
regulations.
° Protect or restore wetlands under the jurisdiction of the Corps
of Engineers, Section 404, Federal Water Pollution Control Act,
pursuant to 404(b) Guidelines (40 CFR 230).
Wetlands on the MCC site subject to the Corps of Engineers'
regulatory authority will be defined and effects upon the public
interest from actions proposed within said wetlands will be evaluated
relative to the need to perform the actions within wetlands. Evalua-
tion of effects of proposed work will include the following considera-
tions:
a. Wetlands, regardless of USEPA categorizations as 1, 2, or 3,
will be evaluated with regard to their importance functions,
such as providing terrestrial or aquatic wildlife habitat;
primary and secondary production; surface and ground water
pattern alteration, including aquifer recharge and storm and
flood water storage; and water quality maintenance.
b. The necessity of locating proposed works in importantly
functioning wetlands in order to fulfill the primary purpose
of mining phosphate and/or supporting mining.
c. The feasibility of locating proposed mining works in places
other than in importantly functioning wetlands.
Public interest benefits of potentially affected wetlands and
those of proposed and alternative actions will be evaluated from the
perspectives of conservation, economics, aesthetics, general environ-
mental concerns, historic values, fish and wildlife values, flood
damage prevention, land use, navigation, recreation, water supply,
water quality, energy needs, safety, food production, and the general
needs and welfare of the people. • These evaluations will be synthesized
by considering the extent and permanence of the work, public and
private needs for the work or its alternatives, and the cumulative
4.4-10
-------
effects of alternative actions on existing and anticipated uses of the
site. Authorization of any action by the Corps of Engineers would be
made only if:
a. Identified benefits of the action were determined to exceed
anticipated damages to wetland resources, and
b. The action was determined to be necessary to realize identi-
fied benefits to the public interest.
° Three categories of wetlands ar>e to be established in the
Mining/Reclamation Plan for New Source Mines for regulation.
Category 1, which are to be protected, includes wetlands within
and contiguous to rivers and streams having an average annual
flow exceeding '5 cubic feet per second as well as other specific
wetlands determined to serve essential environmental functions,
including water quality. (These are wetlands that provide an
essential synergistic support to the ecosystem and that would
have an unacceptable adverse impact if they were altered, modi-
fied, or destroyed.) This generally includes cypress swamps,
swamp forests, wet prairies, and certain freshwater marshes.
Category 2 includes wetlands that should be restored as wetlands
to perform useful wetland functions. This also includes certain
isolated noncategory wetlands that serve a primary function or
several minor functions that may be maintained through proper
restoration. Category 3 includes wetlands that would not have
to be restored as wetlands. These are isolated and normally
intermittent in nature, have less significant hydrological func-
tions than Category 2, and minimal life-support value.
The definitions of wetlands categories were presented in the Area-
wide EIS as general guidelines to rank natural wetlands on Florida
phosphate mining sites in terms of their value to regional hydrology,
water quality, and fish and wildlife production. This categorization
scheme was intended to aid in the USEPA review process of proposed
mining/reclamation plans for new source mines.
4.4-11
-------
Four alternative preservation schemes were considered for the MCC
site. The three categories of wetlands, as defined strictly by the
Areawide EIS, are shown on Figures 2.10-2, 2.10-3, and 2.10-4. These
total 1,060 acres in Category 1, 1,538 acres in Category 2, and 382
acres in Category 3.
A second preservation scheme was developed by applying the USEPA
wetlands definitions as criteria for a site-specific wetland categori-
zation, preserving wetlands with only high functional and/or habitat
value. Figure 2.10-5 shows the Category 1 wetlands as defined under
this scheme; a total of 233 acres would be preserved. Category 2 wet-
lands comprise 2,358 acres and Category 3 wetlands cover 389 acres.
A third preservation scheme was based on the quality and diversity
of ecological system functions and includes preservation of some non-
wetlands where their ecological importance is high. Figure 2.10-6
shows the systems which would qualify for preservation under this
scheme; they total 1,007 acres. Category 2 and 3 wetlands would com-
prise 1,871 acres and 389 acres, respectively.
The fourth preservation scheme is the proposed action and is the
preservation plan outlined in the Florida Development Order. Protected
wetlands total 233 acres, including 120 acres of swamp forest and 113
acres of marsh (Figure 2.10-1). These wetlands would be mined only
when MCC demonstrated to the satisfaction of the USEPA, state, and
Hardee County, that the wetlands could be restored with equivalent
functional values. In addition to these conditional preserved wet-
lands, 270 acres of swamp forest and 1,507 acres of wetlands would be
reclaimed as part of the proposed mining and reclamation plan.
° Make efforts to preserve archeological or historical sites
through avoidance or mitigate by salvage excavation performed by
a professionally competent agency any sites deemed significant
by the Florida Division of Archives, History, and Records
Management. If mitigation is chosen, the resulting report
4.4-12
-------
should be submitted to that state agency for examination and
comment.
One archeological site of significance, Aboriginal Site No. 1, is
a camp site representing the Lake Okeechobee Basin Belle Glade culture.
This site has been recommended for excavation prior to mining. A
request has been submitted to the Department of Interior for a deter-
mination of eligibility for the National Register. MCC's plans call
for excavation under proper archeological supervision prior to mining
disturbance.
4.4.1.2 Corps of Engineers Section 404 (Dredge and Fill Disposal)
Permit
A permit is required from the Corps of Engineers for disposal of
dredged or fill material in waters of the United States, including
wetlands, subject to Corps jurisdiction. Section 404 permits are con-
sidered for authorization after public notice, opportunity for public
comment, public hearing, consultation with other Federal agencies and
with state and local agencies, and upon completion of a public interest
review by the Corps. MCC must apply for and obtain such a permit and
must comply with all conditions set forth therein. Preparation of this
DEIS fulfills the environmental assessment requirements for the Section
404 permits.
4.4.1.3 NPDES Discharge Permit
The requirement for an NPDES permit to be issued by USEPA is the
major federal action which has prompted the preparation of this DEIS.
4.4.1.4 PSD Permit
A PSD permit must be obtained by MCC prior to construction of
major pollutant emitting facilities. This permit approval is separate
and independent from the NPDES permit process which is the subject of
this DEIS. A summary of predicted air quality impacts has been in-
cluded in TSD-III and in Section 3.4 of this DEIS. The proposed pro-
ject is expected to meet established PSD increment and BACT
requirements.
4.4-13
-------
4.4.2 State of Florida
4.4.2.1 Department of Environmental Regulation Construction Permit
DER must issue a separate construction permit before MCC may con-
struct, expand, or modify any potential source of air pollution. After
construction, an operating permit must be obtained. Applications for
these permits would be processed simultaneously with the PSD permit.
4.4.2.2 Construction and Operation of Potential Sources of Water
Pollution" ~~~~
DER must issue a permit for stationary point sources of water
pollution prior to construction. These sources must meet specific
effluent standards and instream water quality standards. As indicated
in Section 4.4.1.1, the TSS in MCC's clear water pond discharge may
exceed the 30-day average and 1-day maximum concentrations established
by the state. Assuming complete mixing of the average effluent dis-
charge with average ambient flows in Oak Creek during the period of
A
June through September, comparisons were made with Florida standards
(Section 3.2.1.2). The increase in specific conductance and the
ambient concentration of oil and grease may occasionally exceed water
quality standards as a result of the MCC effluent discharge.
4.4.2.3 Dredging and Filling
DER regulates dredging and filling activities in navigable waters
of the state. A permit is required, similar to but separate from, that
required from the Corps of Engineers. The wetlands jurisdiction of DER
may be different from that of the Corps.
4.4.2.4 Consumptive Water Use
A consumptive use permit has been obtained from SWFWMD, as indi-
cated in Section 4.4.1.1.
4.4-14
-------
4.4.3 Hardee County
4.4.3.1 Zoning Regulations
On April 15, 1977, the Hardee County Board of County Commissioners
approved a request by MCC that the site be rezoned from A-l
(agricultural) to M-l (mining and earth moving).
4.4.3.2 Mining Ordinance
The Hardee County Mining Ordinance requires that no mining activi-
ties be conducted except when such land is zoned M-l. Also, applica-
tion for a mining permit must include the Development of Regional
Impact (DRI) application for development approval (ADA), a mining and
reclamation master plan, copies of financial responsibility and any
required zoning amendments. Approval of the Florida Development Order
(FDD) constitutes approval by the Board of Commissioners that the pro-
visions of the Mining Ordinance would be met by implementing the
conditions in the FDO.
4.4-15
-------
LIST OF PREPARERS
United States
Name
Robert B. Howard
Dario J. Dal Santo
Lionel Alexander I I I
WiI Iiam L. Kruczynski
Phil ip J. Murphy
H. Richard Payne
Thomas R. Cavinder
Wi 11iam P. Davis
A. Eugene Coker
0. Brian MitchelI
Lewis Nagler
James E. Or ban
Environmental Protection Agency
ResponsibiIity
Chief, EIS Preparation Section
Project Officer
NPDES Permit Coordinator
Biology and Ecology
Biology and Ecology
Radiation
Surface Water
Surface Water
Ground Water/Geology
Air Qua Iity
Air Qua Iity
Noi se
Name
Ronald E. Kear
David E. Hawkins
Dames & Moore
ResponsibiIIty
Pr i nci pa I -i n-Charge
Project Manager,
Rock Drying Alternative
Christine E. Poulos Assistant Project Manager
T. Mike Gurr
Thomas E. Simpson
Robert E. Hunter
Steve H. Blair
Mark R. Stephens
Steven G. Cox
Albert K. Langley, Jr.
G. Raymond Brown
William W. Wade
Marvin F. Smith
Frederick M. Kessler
Gary C. Re
Alternatives (except rock
drying and wetlands
preservation)
Wetlands Preservation
Alternative, Biology
Geology/Soils
Surface Water Hydrology
Ground Water Hydrology
Botany
Zoology, Threatened and
Endangered Species
Air Quality, Climatology
Socioeconomics
Land Use, Archeological/
Historical Resources
Noise
Radiology
Education
B.S., CiviI Engineering
M.E., Environmental
Eng i neer i ng
M.S., Aerospace Engineering
M.S., Environmental
Engineering Science
M.A., Geology
Ph.D, Biological
Science
B.S., Zoology and Geology
M.S, Civil Engineering
M.S., Geology and Water
Resources
M.S., Botany
Ph.D, Ecology
Ph.D, Physics
B.A., Business Admini-
stration
B.A., Business Administration
and Industrial Geography
Ph.D, Electrical
Engineering
M.S., Environmental
Health Science
For information on this material, contact Dario J. Dal Santo
at (404) 881-7458 (FTS/257-7458).
-------
DRAFT ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENT COORDINATION LIST
The following federal, state, and local agencies, public offi-
cials, organization, and interest groups have been requested to comment
on this impact statement.
Federal Agenices
Bureau of Mines
Coast Guard
Corps of Engineers
Council on Environmental Quality
Department of Agriculture
Department of Commerce
Department of Education
Department of the Interior
Department of Transportation
Department of Health and Human
Services
Department of Housing and
Urban Development
Department of Energy
Federal Highway Administration
Fish and Wildlife Service
Food and Drug Administration
Forest Service
Geological Survey
National Park Service
Economic Development
Administration
Soil Conservation Service
Public Health Service
Members of Congress
Honorable Lawton Chiles
United States Senate
Honorable Sam Gibbons
U.S. House of Representatives
Honorable L.A. Bafalis
U.S. House of Representatives
Honorable D. Robert Graham,
Governor
Coastal Coordinating Council
Department of Natural Resources
Department of Agriculture and
Consumer Services
Department of Community
Affairs
Geological Survey
Honorable Paula Hawkins
United States Senate
Honorable Andy P. Ireland
U.S. House of Representatives
State
Game and Freshwater Fish
Commission
Department of State
Department of Commerce
Department of Health and
Rehabilitative Services
Department of Environmental
Regulation
Department of Transportation
-------
Local and Regional
Polk County Commission Tampa Bay Regional Planning
Manatee County Commission Council
DeSoto County Commission Central Florida Regional
Hardee County Commission Planning Council
Hardee County Building & Zoning Southwest Florida Water
Department Management District
Interest Groups
The Fertilizer Institute Florida Defenders of the
Florida Phosphate Council Environment
Florida Audubon Society Izaak Walton League of
Florida Sierra Club America
Manasota 88 Florida Wildlife Federation
-------
INDEX
Word
A-weighted sound.levels
aboriginal sites
acidulation
ADA
agricultural land
agricultural revenue
air quality regulations
airborne concentrations
alkalinity
alpha-emitting daughters
archeology
archeological survey
ambient background
ambient concentrations
amine
amine flotation process
aquatic communities
aquatic habitat
aquifer pumping test
Arcadia
Avon Park Limestone
background ambient sound levels
baseline monitoring
bayheads
beneficiation (wet processing, dry separation
acidulation)
beneficiation plant
benthic macroinvertebrates
Section
3.5.4.1
3.5.3.1
3.1.2.2
3.2.1.1, 3.1.1.1,
3.1.1.5
3.2.2.2
3.5.2.2
3.4.2.2
3.6.2.1
3.2.1.1
3.6.1.2
4.4.1.1
3.5.3.1
3.4.2.2
3.4.2.1
3.2.1.2
3.2.1.3
3.3.2.1
4.1.4
3.2.2.1
3.2.1.1
3.1.1.1
3.5.4.1
3.6.1.2
3.3.2.1
3.6.2.2.
3.2.1.2,
1.1
3.3.2.1
3.4,
-------
INDEX
Word . Section
berm 3.2.1.3
best available control technology (BACT) 3.4.2.2
boiler 3.4.2.2
Bone Valley Formation 3.1.1.1, 3.1.1.4
Brushy Creek 3.2.1.1
Brushy Creek Storage Basin 3.2.2.2
bucketwheel excavator 2.1
buffer zone . 3.3.2.3
carnivores 3.3.2.1
carrying capacities 3.5.2.1
Cedar Keys Limestone 3.1.1.1
centrifugal pumps 3.2.2.2
centroid 3.6.2.2
channelization 3.3.2.1
Charlotte Harbor 3.2.1.1
Class I area 3.4.2.2
clastic sediment 3.1.1.3
clay settling area reclamation 2.0, 2.9.1
climatic zone 3.4.1
coarse feed 2.4.1.1
coefficient of storage 3.2.2.2
colonization 3.3.2.2
community services 3.5.1.2
cone of depression 3.2.2.2
confining bed 3.2.2.2
connector wells 4.4.1.1
consolidation 2.9.1.1, 2.9.1.3
construction expenditures 3.5.1.2
consumptive use permit 3.2.2.2
consumptive water use 4.4.1.1
-------
INDEX
Word Section
conventional reclamation method 2.9.1
criteria air pollutants 3.4.2.1
cutoff trench 3.2.2.2
cutterhead pipeline dredge 2.1.2.1
day-night sound level (L^) 3.5.4.1
DEIS 1.1
desliming 2.4.1.1
desliming and scalping the matrix 2.3.2.3
DeSoto plains 3.1.1
dewatering 3.2.2.2
dikes 2.8.1.1, 2.9.1.1,
2.9.2, 2.9.2.1
dispersion models 3.4.2.2
dissolved oxygen " 3.3.2.2
dominant 3.3.1.1
dose commitments 3.6.2.1
drawdowns 3.2.2.
dry rock 4.4.1.1
dredge 2.1
DRI 3.2.1.1, 3.1.1.1,
3.1.1.5
economy 3.5.1.1
ecosystem functions 3.3.2.3
ecotone 3.3.1.1
Eh 3.2.2.1
effluent discharge 3.3.2.2
effluent disposal 3.1.2.2
elevation (MSL) 3.1.1
employment 3.5.1.1
emissions • 3.4.2.2
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INDEX
Word . Section
endangered species 3.3.3.1
equivalent sound levels (Le.q) 3.5.4.1.
excavation 3.5.3.2
excess annual precipitation 3.2.2.2
external gamma radiation 3.6.1.2
erosion 3.1.1.5
evapotranspiration 3.2.2.2
evaporitic cyclic deposition . 3.1.1.2
feed 2.4.1.1
feed preparation 2.2.1
feed preparation area 2.4.1.1
feed storage 2.2.1
FEIS 1.1
fine feed . 2.4.1.1
fires 3.3.2.2
fish 3.3.2.1
flocculant 3.2.1.2
flood discharge 3.2.1.1
floodplain 3.3.1.1
Florida Administrative Code 3.2.1.3
Florida ambient air quality standards (FAAQS) 3.4.2.1
Floridan aquifer 3.2.1.1, 2.5.1.2,
2.1.2, 2.1
Florida Committee on Rare and Endangered Plants 3.3.3.1
and Animals
Florida Geological Survey 3.1.1.1
flotation cells 2.4.1.1
flotation circuits 2.4.1.1
flotation plant ' 2.4.1.1
flotation process 2.0
-------
INDEX
Word Section
fluorides 3,2.1.1, 3,3,1,2
fugitive dust 3.4.2.2
functional values 3.3.2.2
gamma radiation 3.6.2.1
grizzlies 2.3.1.1
ground concentrations 3.6.2.1
ground-level pollutant concentations 3.4.2.2
ground water 3.2.2.1
ground water use 3.2.2.2
ground water withdrawals 3.2.2.2
Gulf of Mexico 3.2.1.1
habitat 3.3.1.1
hardwood swamps . 3.3.2.1
Hawthorn Formation 3.1.1.1., 3.1.1.4
hemihydrate phosphoric acid 2.7,3.3
Hickory Creek 3.2.1.2
Horse Creek 3.2.1.1
housing availability 3.5.1.1
hydro-cyclones 2.4.1.1
hydro logic function 3.3.2.2
hydrosizers 2.4.1.1
improved pasture " 3.3.1.2
income levels 3.5.1.1
infiltration 3.2.2.1
infrared aerial photographs 3.1.1.3
inundation 3.3.2.1
igneous rock 3.1.1.1
karstic 3.1.1.3
kerosene . 3.2.1.2
Kissimmee Faulted Flexure 3.1.1.2
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INDEX
Word
labor force
Lake City Limestone
Lake Okechobee Basin Belle Glade culture
Land Use and Development Analysis (LUDA) categories
land use patterns
landsat imagery
leach zone
leakance
Lett is Creek
limestones
1ineaments
liquid effluent disposal
1ithic materials
lithology
1ithologies
location quotient
make-up water
marls
marshes
matrix
matrix scalping
matrix transport
mean anual flow
mesic hammock
meteorological data
metamorphic rocks-
mine dewatering
mine pit
mining-reclamation methods
Section .
3.5.1.2
3.1.1.1
3.5.3.1
3.5.2.1
3.5.2.1
3.1.1.2
2.1.1.3.
3.6.2.2
3.6.1.2
3.2.2.1, 3.2.2.2
3.2.1.1
3.2.2.1
3.1.1.2
2.6
3.2.2.1
3.2.2.1
3.1.1.5
3.5.1.1
3.2.1.1
3.2.2.1
3.3.2.1
1.2
2.4.1.1
2.5, 3.4.2.2
3.3.2.1
3.3.1.1
3.4.1
3.1.1.1
3.2.2.2
3.2.2.2
2.0, 2.4
-------
INDEX
Word
mining methods
mitigative
monitoring
monitoring data
National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS)
National Register of Historic Places
NEPA
no-action alternative
noise
nonattainment area
NPDES permit
Oak Creek
observation wells
Oca!a Group
Ocala Group Limestone
Ocala uplift
octave band
Oldsmar
oil and grease
ore processing
overburden
overstory
particulate matter
pasture
Peace River Basin
peak construction work force
pebble
percolation
permeability
Section
3.4.2.2
3.1.3
3.2.2.2
3.4.2.2
3.4.2.1
3.5.3.1
1.1
2.12
4.1.10
3.4.2.1, 3.4.2.2
1.1, 3.1.2.3,
3.2.1.1, 3.3.2.1
3.2.2.1
3.2.2.1
3.1.1.1
3.1.1.2
3.5.4.1
3.1.1.1
3.2.1.2
3.4.2.2
1.2, 3.1.1.1,
3.6.L.2, 3.6.2.2
3.3.1.1,
3.4.2.2
3.3.1.1
3.2.1.1
3.5.1.2
2.4.1.1
3.1.1.5
3.1.1.5
3.3.2.1
-------
INDEX
Word Section
pesticides 3.2.1.2
petrochemicals 3.2.1.2
PH 3.2.1.2, 3.2.2.1
phosphate 3.2.1.1
phosphate ore 2.0, 3.1.1.1,
3.1.1
phosphate pebble 3.2.1.1, 3.0,
3.1.1.4
phosphatic clay 3.2.2.1
phosphatic matrix 3.2.2.2
phosphorite 3.2.2.1
phytoplankton 3.3.2.1
pine flatwoods 3.3.1.1
plateau 3.1.2.1
Polk uplands 3.1.1
pollutants 3.3.2.2
ponding 3.1.1.5
population 3.5.1.1
potable water 3.2.2.2
potash deposit 1.2
potentiometric surface 3.2.2.2
prevention of significant deterioration (PSD)
increments 3.4.2.2
process make-up water 3.2.2.2
process water (surface water, ground water) 2.5
product transport 3.4.2.2
production wells 3.2.2.2
PSD permit 1.1, 2.7.2.2,
2.7.3.2, 3.4.2.2
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INDEX
Word Section
pumping tests 3.2.2.2
radiation • 4.4.1.1
radiology 4.1.11
radionuclide concentration 3.6.1.1
radium-226 (Ra-226) 3.6.1.1
radon-222 (Ra-222) 3.6.1.1
radon flux 3.6.1.1, 3.6.2.1
rainfall 3.4.1
rake classifiers 2.4.1.1
rangeland 3.3.1.1
rare plant 3.3.3.1
reagent storage 2.2.1
recharge 3.2.2.1
reclamation 1.2, 2.9,
3.1.2.1, 3.3.1.2,
3.3.2.2, 3.3.2.3,
3.5.2.2, 3.6.2.1,
3.6.2.2
reseeding 3.3.1.3
revegetation 2.9.1.1
rim ditch 3.3.2.3
rock dryer 2.2.1, 3.4.2.2
rock drying 3.2.1.2, 2.7,
3.6.2.2
salt water migration 3.2.2.2
sampling program 3.3.2.1
sand/clay cap 3.6.3
sand/clay waste disposal 4.4.1.1
sand fill reclamation 2.0, 2.9
sand tailings 2.8, 3.1.3,
3.2.2.2
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INDEX
Word
sand/clay capping reclamation
sand/clay mix reclamation
sand-clay mixing
dredge-mix method
sand-spray process
chemical flocculents
sanitary effluent
screw classifiers
scrubbers
scrubbing
Section 404 permit
sediment
seed sources
seepage
shallow aquifer
shallow aquifer
silos
slime disposal
slimes
sinkholes
sulfate
sulfuric acid
slumping
slurry
slurry transport
strip mining
soil conservation service
Section
2.0, 2.8.3, 2.9.3
2.9.2
2.8.2, 4.4.1.1,
2.8.2.1
2.8.2.1
2.8.2.1
3.2.2.2
2.4.1.1
3.4.2.2
2.3.3.3
1.1
3.2.1.2
3.3.2.3
3.1.1.5, 3.2.2.2,
3.6.2.1
3.2.2.2, 4.1.2
4.1.2
3.4.2.2
4.4.1.1
3.6.2.1
3.1.1.3,
3.2.2.2
3.2.1.1
3.2.1.2
3.1.1.3
2.0, 3.1.2.1.
3.2.1.2
3.2.2.2
2.1.1.1
3.1.1.5
3.2.2.1,
-------
INDEX
Word Section
soil moisture 3.3.1.1
soil survey report . 3.1.1.5
soils map 3.1.1.5
sound barrier 3.5.4.3
sound sensitive areas 3.5.4.1
sound quality 3.5.4.1
Southwest Florida Water Management
District (SWFWMD) 3.2.1.2, 2.5.1.1,
3.2.2.2
specific conductance 3.2.1.1, 3.2.2.1
spiral circuits 2.4.1.1
stage settling, stage filling 2.8.1.1, 2.8.3.1
standards 3.6.2.1
State Historic Preservation Office 3.5.3.2
state regulations 3.2.2.2
storage coefficients 3.2.2.1
stream basins 3.1.1
stream diversion 3.3.2.2
subdominant 3.3.1.1
sulfur dioxide (S02) 3.4.2.2
surficial aquifer 3.2.2.1, 3.6.2.1
surficial materials 3.6.2.1
suspended solids 3.3.2.2, 3.6.2.1
Suwannee Limestone 3.1.1.1, 3.2.2.1
tailings 3.6.2.1
Tampa Limestone 3.1.1.1, 3.2.2.1
taxes 3.5.1.2
temperature 3.2.1.2
total suspended solids 3.2.1.2, 4.4.1.1
traffic 3.5.1.2
-------
INDEX
Word Section
training 3.3.1.3
transmissivity 3.2.2.1
transportation of phosphate products 2.11
treatment species 3.3.3.1
triple super phosphate 4.4.1.1
Troublesome Creek 3.2.1.1
unavoidable adverse impacts 4.1
understory 3.3.1.1, 3.3.2.1
uplands 3.3.1.1
uranium-238 3.6.1.1
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 3.3.3.1
USGS 3.2.1.1
vertebrate species 3.3.1.1
visibility 3.4.2.2
washing 2.2.1
washer section 2.4.1.1
washing/screening 2.4.1.1
waste clay 2.4.1.1, 3.2.2.2
waste clay disposal 2.4.1.1, 2.8
waste disposal 2.8, 3.6.2.2
water table aquifer 2.5.1.2,
2.12.2.1
water crop 3.2.2.2, 4.2.2.3
water quality 3.2.2.1, 3.6.2.1
water table 3.2.2.1
well construction procedures 3.2.2.2
well inventory 3.2.2.1, 3.2.2.2
-------
INDEX
Word • Section
wet rock 4.4.1.1
wet rock storage 2.2.1, 2.4.1.1
wetlands 2.10, 3.3.2.1
4.1.2, 4.1.4
wetlands categorization (USEPA) 2.10, 2.10.3,
4.4.1.1
wetlands preservation 2.10
wetlands protection (Florida DER) 2.10, 2.10.1
wetlands systems 2.10, 2.10.4,
3.3.2.2
Wicomico-Penholoway escarpment 3.1.1
xeric hammock 3.3.1.1
zoning 3.5.3
zooplankton 3.3.2.1
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THIS PAGE LEFT BLANK INTENTIONALLY
-------
Appendix A
Draft NPDES Permit
-------
THIS PAGE LEFT BLANK INTENTIONALLY
-------
Permit No.: FL0037745
UNITED STATES ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY
REGION IV
343 COURTLAND STREET
ATLANTA. GEORGIA 30365
AUTHORIZATION TO DISCHARGE UNDER THE
NATIONAL POLLUTANT DISCHARGE ELIMINATION SYSTEM
In compliar.ee with the provisions of the Clean Water Act, as amended
(33 U.S.C. 1251 et. seq; the "Act"),
Mississippi Chemical Corporation
is authorized to discharge from a facility located at
near the Vandolah Plant Site
Latitude - 27° 30' 10
Longitude - 81° 55* 59*' , ^
> '
to receiving waters named
Oak Creek AUG 1 7 1981
in accordance with effluent limitations, monitoring requirements and
other conditions set forth in Parts I, II, and III hereof. The permit
consists of this cover sheet, Part I 2 pages(s), Part II 12 page(s)
and Part III 4 page(s).
This permit shall become effective on
This permit and the authorization to discharge shall expire at
midnight,
Date Signed Howard D. Zeller
Acting Director
Enforcement Division
-------
A. EFFLUENT LIMITATIONS AND MONITORING REQUIREMENTS
Such discharges shall be limited and monitored by the permittee as specified below
Flow-m3/Day (MGD)
Total Suspended Solids
Specific Conductance
Radium*
Dai»A,g
Daily Avg Dally Max
(during discharge)
~ — Continuous Recorder
30 mg/1 60 mg/1 I/week
550 Mmhos/cm 900 ^mhos/on I/week
5pci/l 10pci/l I/week
Composite
Composite
Composite
*Combined Radium 226 & 228
The PH shall not be less than 6.0 standard units nor greater than 8.5 standard units and shal, be monitored once
week with a grab sample.
There shall be no discharge of floating solids or visible foam in other than trace amounts.
requirements specified above shall be taken at the following lor ttionfsV
treatment but prior to actual discharge or mixing with
•a V TO
5 Pi >
3 05 »
o
o
-------
PART 1
Page 1-2
Permit No.
FL0037745
B. EFFLUENT LIMITATIONS AND MONITORING REQUIREMENTS
Any overflow from facilities designated, constructed and maintained to contain
or treat the volume of wastewater which would result from a "10-year, 24-hour
precipitation event shall not be subject to the suspended solids limitation
or the pH limitation listed on the preceeding pages. Monitoring and reporting
shall be required for all other parameters.
The effluent limits and any additional requirements specified in the state
certification supersede any less stringent effluent limits listed above. During
any time period in which more stringent state certification effluent limits are
stayed or inoperable, the effluent limits listed above shall be in effect and
fully enforceable.
-------
PARTI
Page 1-3
Permit No. FL0037745
B. SCHEDULE OF COMPLIANCE
1. The permittee shall achieve compliance with the effluent limitations specified for
discharges In accordance with the following schedule:
Operational Level Attained Effective Date of Permit
2. No later than 14 calendar days following a date identified in the above schedule of
compliance, the permittee shall submit either a report of progress or, in the case of
specific actions being required by identified dates, a written notice of compliance or
noncompliance. In the latter case, the notice shall include the cause of noncompliance,
any remedial actions taken, and the probability of meeting the next scheduled
requirement.
-------
Part II
Page II-l
A. MANAGEMENT REQUIREMENTS
1. Discharge Violations
All discharges authorized herein shall be consistent with the terms
and conditions of this permit. The discharge of any pollutant more
frequently than, or at a level in excess of, that identified and
authorized by this permit constitutes a violation of the terms and
conditions of this permit. Such a violation may result in the
imposition of civil and/or criminal penalties as provided in Section
309 of the Act.
2. Change in Discharge
Any anticipated facility expansions, production increases, or process
modifications which will result in new, different, or increased
discharges of pollutants must be reported by submission of a new
NPDES application at least 180 days prior to commencement of such
discharge. Any other activity which would constitute cause for
modification or revocation and reissuance of this permit, as
described in Part II (B) (4) of this permit, shall, be reported to the
Permit Issuing Authority.
3. Noncompliance Notification
a.
Instances of noncompliance involving toxic or hazardous pollutants
should be reported as outlined in Condition 3c. All other instances
of noncompliance should he reported as described in Condition 3b.
If for any reason, the permittee does not comply with or will be
unable to comply with any discharge limitation specified in the
permit, the permittee shsll provide the Permit Issuing Authority
with the following information at the time when the next Discharge
Monitoring Report is submitted.
(1) A description of the discharge and cause of noncompliance;
(2) The period of noncompliance, including exact dates and times
and/or anticipated time when the discharge will return to
compliance; and
(3) Steps taken to reduce, eliminate, and prevent recurrence of
the noncomplying discharge.
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Part II
Page II-2
c. Toxic or hazardous discharges as defined below shall be reported
by telephone within 24 hours after permittee becomes aware of the
circumstances and followed up with information in writing as
set forth in Condition 3b. within 5 days, unless this requirement
is otherwise waived by the Permit Issuing Authority:
(1) Noncomplying discharges subject to any applicable toxic
pollutant effluent standard under Section 307(a) of the Act;
(2) Discharges which could constitute a threat to human health,
welfare or the environment. These include unusual or extra-
ordinary discharges such as those which could result from
bypasses, treatment failure or objectionable substances
passing through the treatment plant. These include Section
311 pollutants or pollutants which could cause a threat to
public drinking water supplies.
d. Nothing in this permit shall be construed to relieve the permittee
from civil or criminal penalties for noncompliance.
4. Facilities Operation
All waste collection and treatment facilities shall be operated in
a raanner consistent with the following:
a. The facilities shall at all times be maintained in a good
working order and operated as efficiently as possible. This
includes but is not limited to effective performance based on
design facility removals, adequate funding, effective management,
adequate operator staffing and training, and adequate laboratory
and process controls (including appropriate quality assurance
procedures); and
b. Any maintenance of facilities, which might necessitate unavoidable
interruption of operation and degradation of effluent quality,
shall be scheduled during noncritical water quality periods and
carried out in a manner approved by the Permit Issuing Authority.
c. The permittee, in order to maintain compliance with this permit
shall control production and all discharges upon reduction, loss,
or failure of the treatment facility until the facility is
restored or an alternative method of treatment is provided.
5. Adverse Impact
The permittee shall take all reasonable steps to minimize any
adverse impact to waters of the United States resulting from
-------
Part II
Page II-3
noncompliance with any effluent limitations specified in this
permit, including such accelerated or additional monitoring as
necessary to determine the nature of the noncomplymg discharge.
6. Bypassing
"Bypassing" means the intentional diversion of untreated or partially
treated wastes to waters of the United States from any portion o a
treatment facility. Bypassing of wastewaters is prohibited unless
all of the following conditions are met:
a. The bypass is unavoidable- i.e. required to prevent loss of life,
personal injury or severe property damage;
b There are no feasible alternatives such as use of auxiliary
treatment facilities, retention of untreated wastes, or
maintenance during normal periods of equipment down time,
c. The permittee reports (via telephone) to the Permit Issuing
Authority any unanticipated bypass within 24 hours after
becoming aware of it and follows up with written notification
in Tdays. Where the necessity of a bypass is known (or should
E known) in advance, prior notification shal be submitted to
the Permit Issuing Authority for approval at least 10 days
beforehand, if possible. All written notification, shall contain
information as required in Part II (A)(3Xb), and
d The bypass is allowed under conditions determined to be »*«««
ly thermit Issuing Authority to minimize any adverse ef feet..
The public shall be notified and given an opportunity to comment
on bypass incidents of significant duration to the extent
feasible.
This requirement is waived where infiltration/inflow analyses .are
scheduled to be performed as part of an Environmental Protection
Agency facilities planning project.
7 Removed Substances
from entering waters of the United States.
-------
Part II
Page II-4
8. Power Failures
The permittee is responsible for maintaining adequate safeguards to
prevent the discharge of untreated or inadequately treated wastes
during electrical power failures either by means of alternate power
sources, standby generators or retention of inadequately treated
effluent. Should the treatment works not include the above
capabilities at time of permit issuance, the permittee must furnish
within six months to the Permit Issuing Authority, for approval, an
implementation schedule for their installation, or documentation
demonstrating that such measures are not necessary to prevent discharge
of untreated or inadequately treated wastes. Such documentation
shall include frequency and duration of power failures and an estimate
of retention capacity of untreated effluent.
9. Onshore or Offshore Construction
This permit does not authorize or approve the construction of any
onshore or offshore physical structures or facilities or the
undertaking of any work in any waters of the United States.
B. RESPONSIBILITIES
1.. Right of Entry
The permittee shall allow the Permit Issuing Authority and/or
authorized representatives (upon presentation of credentials and
such other documents as may be required by law) to:
a. Enter upon the permittee's premises where an effluent source
is located or in which any records are required to be kept under
the terms and conditions of this permit;
b. Have access to and copy at reasonable times any records required
to be kept under the terms and conditions of this permit;
c. Inspect at reasonable times any monitoring equipment or
monitoring method required in this permit;
d. Inspect at reasonable times any collection, treatment, pollution
management or discharge facilities required under the permit; or
e. Sample at reasonable times any discharge of pollutants.
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Part II
Page II-5
2. Transfer of Ownership or Control
A permit may be transferred to another party under the following
conditions:
a. The permittee notifies the Permit Issuing Authority of the
proposed transfer;
b. A written agreement is submitted to the Permit Issuing Authority
containing the specific transfer date and acknowledgement that
the existing permittee is responsible for violations up to that
date and the new permittee liable thereafter.
Transfers are not effective if, within 30 days of receipt of proposal,
the Permit Issuing Authority disagrees and notifies the current
permitttee and the new permittee of the intent to modify, revoke and
reissue, or terminate the permit and to require that a new application
be filed.
3. Availability of Reports
Except for data determined to be confidential under Section 308
of the Act, (33 U.S.C. 1318) all reports prepared in accordance with
the terms of this permit shall be available for public inspection at
the offices of the State water pollution control agency and the Permit
Issuing Authority. As required by the Act, effluent data shall not
be considered confidential. Knowingly making any false statement on
any such report may result in the imposition of criminal penalties
as provided for in Section 309 of the Act (33 U.S.C. 1319).
4. Permit Modification
After notice and opportunity for a hearing, this permit may be modified,
terminated or revoked for cause (as described in 40 CFR 122.15 et seq)
including, but not limited to, the following:
a. Violation of any terms or conditions of this permit;
b. Obtaining this permit by misrepresentation or failure to
disclose fully all relevant facts;
c. A change in any condition that requires either temporary
interruption or elimination of the permitted discharge; or
d. Information newly acquired by the Agency indicating the
discharge poses a threat to human health or welfare.
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Part II
Page II-6
If the permittee believes that any past or planned activity would
be cause for modification or revocation and reissuance under
40 CFR 122.15 et seq, the permittee must report such information to
the Permit Issuing Authority. The submission of a new application
may be required of the permittee.
5, Toxic Pollutants
a. Notwithstanding Part II (B)(4) above, if a toxic effluent
standard or prohibition (including any schedule of compliance
specified in such effluent standard or prohibition) is established
under Section 307(a) of the Act for a toxic pollutant which is
present in the discharge authorized herein and such standard
or prohibition is more stringent than any limitation for such
pollutant in this permit, this permit shall be revoked and
reissued or modified in accordance with the toxic effluent
standard or prohibition and the permittee so notified.
b. An effluent standard established for a pollutant which is
injurious to human health is effective and enforceable by the
time set forth in the promulgated standard, even though this
permit has not as yet been modified as outlined in Condition 5a.
6. Civil and Criminal Liability
Except as provided in permit conditions on "Bypassing", Part II
(A) (6), nothing in this permit shall be construed to relieve the
permittee from civil or criminal penalties for noncompliance.
7. Oil and Hazardous Substance Liability
Nothing in this permit shall be construed to preclude the
institution of any legal action or relieve the permittee from
any responsibilities, liabilities, or penalties to which the
permittee is or may be subject under Section 311 of the Act
(33 U.S.C. 1321).
8. State Laws
Nothing in this permit shall be construed to preclude the
institution of any legal action or relieve the permittee from
any responsibilities, liabilities, or penalties established
pursuant to any applicable State law or regulation under authority
preserved by Section 510 of the Act.
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Part II
Page II-7
9. Property Rights
The issuance of this permit does not convey any property rights in
either real or personal property, or any exclusive privileges, nor
does it authorize any injury to private property or any invasion of
personal rights, nor any infringement of Federal, State, or local
laws or regulations.
10. Severability
The provisions of this permit are severable, and if any provision
of this permit, or the application of any provision of this permit
to any circumstance, is held invalid, the application of such
provision to other circumstances, and the remainder of this permit
shall not be affected thereby.
11. Permit Continuation
A new application shall be submitted at least 180 days before the
expiration date of this permit. Where EPA is the Permit Issuing
Authority, the terms and conditions of this permit are automatically
continued in accordance with 40 CFR 122.5, provided that the permittee
has submitted a timely and sufficient application for a renewal permit
and the Permit Issuing Authority is unable through no fault of the
permittee to issue a new permit before the expiration date.
C. MONITORING AND REPORTING
1. Representative Sampling
Samples and measurements taken as required herein shall be
representative of the volume and nature of the monitored discharge.
2. Reporting
Monitoring results obtained during each calendar month shall be
summarized for each month and reported on a Discharge Monitoring
Report Form (EPA No. 3320-1). Forms shall be submitted at the end
of each calendar quarter and shall be postmarked no later than the
28th day of the month following the end of the quarter. The first
report is due by the 28th day of the month following the first full
quarter after the effective date of this permit.
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Part II
Page II-8
Signed copies of these, and all other reports required herein, shall
be submitted to the Permit Issuing Authority at the following
address(es):
Permit Compliance Branch
Environmental Protection Agency
Region IV
345 Courtland Street, N.E.
Atlanta, Georgia 30365
3. Test Procedures
Test procedures for the analysis of pollutants shall conform to all
regulations published pursuant to Section 304(h) of the Clean Water
Act, as amended (40 CFR 136, "Guidelines Establishing Test Procedures
for the Analysis of Pollutants").
4. Recording of Results
For each measurement or sample taken pursuant to the requirements
of this permit, the permittee shall record the following information:
a. The exact place, date, and time of sampling;
b. The person(s) who obtained the samples or measurements;
c. The dates the analyses were performed;
d. The person(s) who performed the analyses;
e. The analytical techniques or methods used; and
f. The results of all required analyses.
5. Additional Monitoring by Permittee
If the permittee monitors any pollutant at the location(s)
designated herein more frequently than required by this permit,
using approved analytical methods as specified above, the results
of such monitoring shall be included in the calculation and reporting
of the values required in the Discharge Monitoring Report Form
(EPA No. 3320-1). Such increased frequency shall also be indicated.
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Part II
Page II-9
6. Records Retention
The permittee shall maintain records of all monitoring including:
sampling dates and times, sampling methods used, persons obtaining
samples or measurements, analyses dates and times, persons performing
analyses, and results of analyses and measurements. Records shall
be maintained for three years or longer if there is unresolved
litigation or if requested by the Permit Issuing Authority.
D. DEFINITIONS
1. Permit Issuing Authority
The Regional Administrator of EPA Region IV or designee.
2. Act
"Act" means the Clean Water Act (formerly referred to as the Federal
Water Pollution Control Act) Public Law 92-500, as amended by Public
Law 95-217 and Public Law 95-576, 33 U.S.C. 1251 et seq.
3. Mass/Day Measurements
a. The "average monthly discharge" is defined as the total mass of
all daily discharges sampled and/or measured during a calendar
month on which daily discharges are sampled and measured, divided
by the number of daily discharges sampled and/or measured during
such month. It is, therefore, an arithmetic mean found by adding
the weights of the pollutant found each day of the month and then
dividing this sum by the number of days the tests were reported.
This limitation is identified as "Daily Average" or "Monthly
Average" in Part I of the permit and the average monthly discharge
value is reported in the "Average" column under "Quantity" on
the Discharge Monitoring Report (DMR).
b. The "average weekly discharge" is defined as the total mass of
all daily discharges sampled and/or measured during a calendar
week on which daily discharges are sampled and/or measured
divided by the number of 'daily discharges sampled and/or measured
during such week. It is, therefore, an arithmetic mean found by
adding the weights of pollutants found each day of the week and
then dividing this sum by the number of days the tests were
reported. This limitation is identified as "Weekly Average in
Part I of the permit and the average weekly discharge value is
reported in the "Maximum" column under "Quantity" on the DMR.
c. The "maximum daily discharge" is the total mass (weight) of a
pollutant discharged during a calendar day. If only one
sample is taken during any calendar day the weight of pollutant
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Part II
Page 11-10
calculated from it is the "maximum daily discharge". This
limitation is identified as "Daily Maximum," in Part I of the
permit and the highest such value recorded during the reporting
period is reported in the "Maximum" column under "Quantity"
on the DMR.
4. Concentration Measurements
a. The "average monthly concentration," other than for fecal
coliform bacteria, is the concentration of all daily discharges
sampled and/or measured during a calendar month on which daily
discharges are sampled and measured divided by the number of
daily discharges sampled and/or measured during such month
(arithmetic mean of the daily concentration values). The daily
concentration value is equal to the concentration of a composite
sample or in the case of grab samples is the arithmetic mean
(weighted by flow value) of all the samples collected during
that calendar day. The average monthly count for fecal coliform
bacteria is the geometric mean of the counts for samples collected
during a calendar month. This limitation is identified as
"Monthly Average" or "Daily Average" under "Other Limits" in
Part I of the permit and the average monthly concentration value
is reported under the "Average" column under "Quality" on the DMR.
b. The "average weekly concentration," other than for fecal coliform
bacteria, is the concentration of all daily discharges sampled
and/or measured during a calendar week on which daily discharges
are sampled and measured divided by the number of daily discharges
sampled and/or measured during such week (arithmetic mean of the
daily concentration values). The daily concentration value is
equal to the concentration of a composite sample or in the case of
grab samples is the arithmetic mean (weighted by flow value) of
all samples collected during that calendar day. The average
weekly count for fecal coliform bacteria is the geometric mean
of the counts for samples collected during a calendar week. This
limitation is identified as "Weekly Average" under "Other Limits"
in Part I of the permit and the average weekly concentration
value is reported under the "Maximum" column under "Quality" on
the DMR.
c. The "maximum daily concentration" is the concentration of a
pollutant discharged during a calendar day. It is identified
as "Daily Maximum" under "Other Limits" in Part I of the permit
and the highest such value recorded during the reporting period
is reported under the "Maximum" column under "Quality" on the
DMR.
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Part II
Page 11-11
5. Other Measurements
a The effluent flow expressed as M3/day (MGD) is the 24 hour
average flow averaged monthly. It is the arithmetic mean of
the total daily flows recorded during the calendar month.
Where monitoring requirements for flow are specified in Part I ^
of the permit the flow rate values are reported in the Average
column under "Quantity" on the DMR.
b Where monitoring requirements for pH, dissolved oxygen or fecal
coliform are specified in Part I of the permit the values are
generally reported in the "Quality or Concentration" column on
the DMR.
6. Types of Samples
a. Composite Sample - A "composite sample" is any of the following:
(1) Not less than four influent or effluent portions collected
at regular intervals over a period of 8 hours and composited
in proportion to flow.
(2) Not less than four equal volume influent or effluent
portions collected over a period of 8 hours at intervals
proportional to the flow.
(3) An influent or effluent portion collected continuously
over a period of 24 hours at a rate proportional to the flow.
b. Grab Sample: A "grab sample11 is a single influent or effluent
portion which is not a composite sample. The sample(s) shall be
collected at the period(s) most representative of the total
discharge.
7. Calculation of Means
a Arithmetic Mean: The arithmetic mean of any set of values is
the summation of the individual values, divided by the number
of individual values.
Geometric Mean: The geometric mean of any set of values is the
Nth root of the product of the individual values where N is equal
to the number of individual values. The geometric mean is
equivalent to the antilog of the arithmetic mean of the logarithms
of the individual values. For purposes of calculating the
geometric mean, values of zero (0) shall be considered to be one U>
b.
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Part II
Page 11-12
c. Weighted by Flow Value: Weighted by flow value means the
summation of each concentration times its respective flow
divided by the summation of the respective flows.
8. Calendar Day
a. A calendar day is defined as the period from midnight of one
day until midnight of the next day. However, for purposes of
this permit, any consecutive 24-hour period that reasonably
represents the calendar day may be used for sampling.
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Part III
Page III-l
Permit No. FL0037745
PART III
OTHER REQUIREMENTS
1. In accordance with Section 306(d) of the Federal Water Pollution
Control Act (PL 92-500) the standards of performance for conventional
Pollutions as contained in this permit shall not be made any more
stringent during a ten year period beginning on the date of completion
of construction or during the period of depreciation of amortization
of such facility for the purposes of Section 167 or 169 (or both) of
the Internal Revenue Code of 1954, whichever period ends first. The
provisions of Section 306(d) do not limit the authority of the
Environmental Protection Agency to modify the permit to require
compliance with a toxic effluent limitation promulgated under BAT
or Toxic Pollutant Standard established under Section 307(a) of the
FWPCA.
National Environmental Policy Act Requirements
2.) The Permittee shall undertake a program as recommended by
the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to avoid injuring or
killing the eastern indigo snake. If this species is
encountered during mining or related activities, the
individual should be collected and safely removed from the
area. MCC shall coordinate with the Florida Endangered
Species Coordinator for the relocation of the individual.
To insure this program is acceptably implemented, MCC shall
develop a program to familarize MCC employees with the
characteristics of the species and in safe capture,
handling, and holding procedures.
3.) Prior to commencement of mining related activities the
Permittee shall undertake, as needed, consultations
relative to significant onsite archaeological sites as
specified in 36 CFR 800. Any excavation programs shall be
approved by and conducted under the guidance of the State
Historic Preservation Office.
4.) The Permittee shall preserve from mining and other
disturbances those areas designated as Category I wetlands
for the site (attached Figure I). If, in time, onsite
wetland systems of an equally functional value as those
currently onsite have been created, an MCC proposal to mine
the preserved wetland areas would be reevaluated.
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Part III
Page III-2
PART III
OTHER REQUIREMENTS - continued
5.) To preserve the hydrologic integrity of the preserved
wetland systems, a setback (identified as 250 feet) in
which no mining shall occur shall be established around the
periphery of the preserved wetlands. Mining in the
vicinity of streams shall be conducted only along one side
of the stream at a time.
6.) The Permittee shall conduct an experimental 90 acre wetland
restoration program to demonstrate the ability of creating
wetlands in historically wet areas. The program shall be
conducted in areas of Section 32, T34S-R24E and Section 31,
T34S-R24E (attached Figure II). A protocol for the wetland
creation program identifying proposed locations, proposed
methodology, and evaluation criteria shall be approved by
EPA not later than start of mining operations.
7.) The Permittee shall implement the sand/clay capping
technique to minimize above-grade clay storage areas and
shall restore topography to as close to the original
conditions as possible.
8.) Unless a proceeding condition specifies otherwise, the
Permittee shall implement its proposed project in complete
accordance with the proposed action described in the Draft
EIS. This shall not preclude implementation of additional
or more stringent conditions required by local or state
governmental bodies. Should the Permittee desire
significant modification of the project, such modification
must be approved by EPA prior to initiation.
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LEGEND:
CATEGORY 1 WETLANDS
-.-- 25 YEAH FLOOD LEVEL
.,- CREEKS
Figure I,
Site Specific Category I Wetlands, Mississippi Chemical Corporation,
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Part III - 4
• W&M^&$&
r-QS&S&fe. ? "• *>&% ' •••-• >£F=
\ '"^^l1! ^:>*'- ^^-* a£^^
0)
i—I
CO
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Mississippi
(Chemical
(Corporation
we Make Ttiings Grow
Post Office Box 1517 • Wauchula, Florida 33873 • Area Code (813) 773-2279
August 12, 1981
Mr. John E. Hagan, III, P.E.
Chief - EIS Branch
U. S. EPA, Region IV
345 Courtland Street, NE
Atlanta, Ga. 30305
Dear Mr. Hagan:
RE: MCC Proposal to Create Wetlands in Historically Wet Areas
Mississippi Chemical Corporation is committed to undertake a wetlands
creation program in historically wet areas along the channel of Oak
Creek. The extent of this wetlands creation project would be at
least ninety (90) acres total and would occur in one or all of three
areas that have been identified in Sections 31 and 32, T34S , R24E,
Hardee County, Florida.
The construction of these wetlands creation areas would make use of all
available information about wetlands creation and restoration. This
program would be undertaken early in mine life after MCC has completed
the pilot wetlands creation experiment that has been previously discussed
with you and is shown in the Development Order issued by the State of
Florida.
Due to the timing of this pilot experiment and the construction of the
beneficiation plant, the construction of the ninety acre wetlands
creation program in historically wet areas would coincide approximately
with the beginning of mine life. It is our desire to structure this
wetlands creation program and associated studies such that it will
provide the information needed by EPA to allow mining in areas presently
required to be preserved.
Sincere-iyT) /
-\ ---'-^
R. A. Risley
General Manager
CS:lw
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Appendix B
Prevention of Significant Deterioration
Preliminary Determination
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THIS PAGE LEFT BLANK INTENTIONALLY
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The State of Florida is presently reviewing the PSD application
for the Mississippi Chemical Corporation rock dryer. The
preliminary determination for the PSD permit is forthcoming
from the Florida Department of Environmental Regulation.
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Appendix C
Hardee County Development Order
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STATE OF FLORIDA
LAND AND WATER ADJUDICATORY COMMISSION
IN RE: Application of MISSISSIPPI CHEMICAL _
CORPORATION for development approval DOAH CASE NO. ,a-739
of a phosphate mine development of
regional impact in Hardee County.
FINAL ORDER
This case came before the Land and Water Adjudicator-/
Commission for final determination on March 17, 1931, in
Tallahassee, Florida.
Based upon the Joint Stipulation by and agreement amor.g
the parties to this action (Bureau of Land and Water Management,
Department of Veteran and Community Affairs, Hardee County,
Central Florida Regional Planning Council, and Mississippi
Chemical Corporation) and the recommendation of the Hearing
Officer, it is hereby ORDERED THAT
The Joint Stipulation of the parties and Proposed Amended
Development Order, attached hereto and incorporated herein, are
adopted as the Development Order, provided that approval of this
Development Order shall in no way be construed to preempt the
independent analysis of this project by the Governor and Cabinet
under Chapter 16C-16, et seg., F.A.C. (Mine Reclamation).
Entered at Tallahassee, Florida, by the Florida Land and
Water Adjudicatory Commission through the Secretary to the
Commission this 26th day of March, 1981.
JOHN T. KERNDON
Secretary to the Land and Water
Adjudicatcry Commission
Copies to:
Members of the Commission
Counsel of'Pccord
Board of Countv Cc~-iissionors, Hardcc County
Deoartncnt of Veteran and Community Afiairs
"Burc.iu of Land and Kntcr Mar.^acncnt
Central Florida ^cqional Planning Council
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THIS PAGE LEFT BLANK INTENTIONALLY
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'BEFORE THE FLORIDA DIVISION OF ADMINISTRATIVE HEARINGS
IN RE: Application of MISSISSIPPI CHEMICAL
CORPORATION for development approval
of a phosphate mine development of CASE NO.
regional impact in Hardee County.
JOINT STIPULATION
The undersigned parties to this proceeding, pursu-
ant to Section 120.57(3), Florida Statutes and Rule 28-5.603,
Florida Administrative Code jointly submit the following and
request issuance of a recommended order to the Florida Land
and Water Adjudicatory Commission incorporating the findings,
proposed development order conditions and conclusions of law
as set forth herein.
Background
1. On February 27, 1S78, Hardee County approved
the application of Mississippi Chemical Corporation (MCC)
for development approval of a phosphate mine development of
regional impact in Hardee County.
2. On April 17, 1978, the Division of State
Planning [the predecessor to the Department of Veteran and
Community Affairs (DVCA)] filed its Notice of Appeal and
Petition pursuant to Section 380.07, Florida Statutes. The
Petition alleges, inter alia, that the Hardee County Develop-
ment Order did"not provide adequate conditions and that the
project as approved would have unacceptable adverse regional
impacts.
3. The undersigned proceeded to discuss the
issues raised by DVCA and negotiated changes to the project
plans which resolve these concerns. All parties, repre-
sentatives of Overlook Groves and the Estate of Louis W.
Abrons, and representatives of Florida Audubon Society
participated in this process.
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4. Changes negotiated by the undersigned have
been incorporated in a document entitled "Amended Development
Order" which is attached as Exhibit A. These changes are
incorporated fully below. Changes to the original Order as
issued by the County on February 27, 1978 (the "original
order") are indicated by underlining (additions) and strik-
ing (deletions). Except for the stipulated facts and changes
set forth below, the original order is supported by the
record below, is acceptable to the undersigned, and is
incorporated herein by reference.
Facts
The undersigned mutually agree and stipulate to
the following facts:
5. The project is a phosphate mining operation
to be conducted on approximately 14,850 acres of real prop-
erty owned or controlled by MCC, in Hardee County, Florida
(the "tract"). The project boundaries and the nature of the
proposed operations are described in further detail in the
application for development approval (ADA) and other docu-
ments submitted by MCC, which are a part of the record
below.
6. MCC operations are now expected to begin
during the period between 1983 and 1987.
7. On May 4, 1977, the Southwest Florida Water
Management District approved MCC's application for a con-
sumptive use permit (number 27703567).
8. On April 15, 1977, the Hardee County Board of
County Commissioners (the "Board") approved a request by MCC
that the tract be rezoned from A-l (agricultural) to M-l
(mining and earth moving).
9. On February 18, 1977, MCC submitted its ADA
to Hardee County, as required by Section 380.06, Florida
Statutes and Chapter 22F-1, Florida Administrative Code
(FAC). MCC concurrently submitted its application for
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permit for mineral extraction as required by the Hardee
County Mining and Earthmoving Ordinance.
10. The MCC ADA was reviewed by Central Florida
Regional Planning Council (CFRPC) pursuant to Section 380.06,
Florida Statutes. A public hearing on the ADA was conducted
on December 7, 1977 at which MCC and members of the public
were afforded the opportunity to be heard.
11. The Board received and considered the report
and recommendations of CFRPC, as well as comments from other
agencies including Southwest Florida Water Management District
and the Hardee County Building and Zoning Department.
12. The Board conducted public hearings beginning
January 30, 1978 and ending February 27, 1978 after proper
notice as prescribed by Section 380.06, Florida Statutes and
applicable local law.
13. All interested persons were afforded the
opportunity to participate in the public hearings before the
Board and were further provided the opportunity to present
evidence and argument on all issues, conduct cross-examination
and submit rebuttal evidence, file responses, and submit
proposed findings of fact. In addition, any member of the
general public requesting an opportunity to do so was allowed
to present oral or written communications to the Board.
14. The record of the proceedings below was
reported by a certified court reporter and has been compiled
and indexed. This index is as follows:
(a) Hardee County Zoning Ordinance No. 73-6
(b) Amendment No. 2 to Ordinance No. 73-6
(adopted July 23, 1976)
(c) Amendment No. 1 to Ordinance No. 736
(adopted August 20, 1974)
(d) Master Plan (Application for Permit
Approval)
(e) louche Ross & Co., Report on Examination
of Financial Statements and Additional Information, Consolidated
Balance Sheet and Officer's Certificate
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(f) Petition for Zoning Property to M-l
(g) Appendix to DRI (Volume I)
(h) Appendix to DRI (Volume II)
(i) Executive Sunmary (of DRI)
(j) DRI Addendum / Figures / Glossary / Maps
(k) DRI Application for Development Approval
(1) Two (2) topographic maps
(m) Letter dated January 26, 1978 from
Bromwell, Hendrickson, and Zellars to Hardee County Building
and Zoning Department (Certificate re preparation of Master
Plan)
(n) Copy of deposit receipt in the amount of
$20,233.75 and copies of three checks from MCC to Hardee
County in amounts of $7,425.00, 57,425.00 and $5,383.75.
[Proof of payment of permit fees]
(o) Supplemental Information Section 38
(p) Supplementary Map No. 1
(q) Certified copy of Affidavit of Publica-
tion of notice of meeting of Plarjxing and Zoning Board on
April 14, 1977 on rezoning from A-l to M-l
(r) Certified copy of Minutes of County
Planning and Zoning Board meeting on April 14, 1977
(s) Certified copy of Minutes of County
Commission meeting on April 15, 1977
(t) Certified copy of Affidavit of Publica-
tion of Notice of County Commission Meeting on January 30,
1978 on rezoning from A-l to M-l
(u) Letter from Caldwell to Building and
Zoning Department dated August 18, 1977, with letter dated
February 10, 1977 from Alexander to Duane; P. E. LaMoreaux &
Associates, Hydrologic Monitoring Program
(v) SWFWMD Order No. 77-9 Granting Permit;
Supporting Report for Consumptive Use Penr.it Application
(w) Water Resources Evaluation Report
(x) Water Resources Evaluation Appendix
(y) An Evaluation of Possible Recharge
Alternatives
(z) Excerpt from transcript of CFRPC meeting,
numbered pages 37-40
(aa) Second Round Supplemental Responses to
CFPRC.
(bb) [Transcript reflects that a document
described as a typewritten copy cf KCC's proposed permit
conditions was marked as Exhibit £27.].
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(cc) Copy of hearing transcript.
A complete indexed copy of the record below is
attached as Exhibit B and the parties hereto agree that this
record below should become a part of the record in this
appeal proceeding.
15. Subject to the conditions described below,
the development will not have an unfavorable impact on the
environment and natural resources of the region.
16. The development will have a favorable impact
on the economy of the region.
17. The development will not affect water, sewer,
solid waste disposal, or other necessary public facilities.
18. The development will not unduly burden public
transportation facilities.
; 19. The development will not adversely affect the
ability of psople to find adequate housing reasonably acces-
sible to their places of employment.
20. The parties have considered whether, and the
extent to which the proposed developnent would create an
additional demand for or additional use of energy, and have
determined that existing sources of energy are sufficient to
supply the proposed development and that those existing
sources will not be unduly burdened by the development.
21. The development does not unreasonably inter-
fere with the achievement of the objectives of the state
land development plan applicable to the area.
22. The proposed development is consistent with
all local and state land development laws and regulations.
23. The program for utilization of ground and
surface water approved by Southwest Florida Water Management
District [SWFWMD] on May 4, 1977, adequately provides for
protection of regional water resources and efficient utili-
zation thereof. However, in addition to the terms and
conditions of the SWFWMD approval, the parties have agreed
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to' construction of a well water storage pond in the vicinity
of the plant site which may be used as a water management
tool. The parties agree that the usage of the water stored
in this pond may reduce the need for withdrawals from the
aquifer depending upon overall rainfall amount, rainfall
pattern on the tract, and general weather conditions. The
cost of building and operating this pond is justified by the
potential savings of ground water and the possible reduction
of discharges during periods of heavy rainfall.
24. The parties have determined that conditional
preservation of the hardwood swamp in Section 29 (Township
34 South, Range 24 East) consisting of about 56.7 acres, the
112.5 acre fresh marsh in Sections 32 and 33 (Township 34
South, Range 24 East) and Sections 4 and 5 (Township 35
South, Range 24 East) and the 63.7 acre hardwood swamp in
Section 17 (Township 34 South, Range 24 East) is appropriate
in light of the water quality, seed source, biological,
ecological, and related functions these wetlands serve.
The undersigned parties have further discussed the
feasibility of wetlands restoration, and methods for con-
ducting a pilot project to demonstrate the potential success
thereof. The details of the project and criteria for deter-
mining the success of the project are contained in Paragraph
41 below.
The undersigned parties have determined that
preservation of the wetlands outlined above will cause
approximately five million tons of phosphate ore to be left
in place. Preservation of additional high-ranking wetlands
areas requires additional, substantial sacrifices of mineable
reserves... The preservation areas outlined above represent a
reasonable balance between regional wetlands considerations,
the current questions regarding restoration feasibility, and
the need for extraction of a valuable mineral resource. In
the event restoration is successfully demonstrated, the
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milling of the preservation areas outlined above will not
cause significant adverse regional impact. Furthermore,
restoration of extensive mined and disturbed areas as wet-
lands will mitigate the impacts of the project on regional
wetlands. The areas subject to wetlands restoration are
shown on the map attached as Exhibit C,
25. The parties have agreed to certain changes to
the waste clay disposal and reclamation plan which are
intended to minimize above-grade storage of clays. These
plans reflect application of state-of-the art technology,
applied on a site specific basis, to achieve the minimum
amount and effect of above-grade storage of waste clays.
The plans are as follows:
(a) Settling area MC-8 will be eliminated
from the DRI/ADA plans by (a) back-filling "lake areas" as
initially proposed; (b) reducing the size of the plant clear
water pond and relocating it on an unmined area, leaving the
previously designated location (a mined area) for below-grade
clay storage; (c) reducing the depth of the Brushy Creek
Reservoir during the last part of mine life by back-filling
with waste clay. This represents a reduction of above-grade
storage by 1063 acres from the original plan.
(b) Waste clays assigned to settling areas
MC-2 and MC-4 will be rehandled late in nine life and after
completion of mining activities. The rehandled clays will
be used to fill in the voids left by the final stages of
mining. This procedure will allow both settling areas to be
reduced to approximate original topography, eliminating
approximately 871 acres of above-grade clay storage.
(c) MCC will utilize sand/clay mix material
for capping above-grade storage areas. This "blanket"
approach provides the best alternative for consolidation of
clays. By using the sand/clay cap and modifying the config-
uration of above-grade settling areas, the final reclaimed
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topography will be around 40 to 45 feet for settling areas
east of the Fort Green-Ona Road and the existing railroad,
25 feet in the central part of the tract, and about 10 feet
in the western part of the tract. After elimination of
acres MC-2 and M-4, total above-grade storage will be about
2200 acres east of the railroad with an additional 1447
acres west of the railroad.
(d) MCC will adopt advances in waste clay
disposal technology which are feasible on a plant scale and
which would result in reduction of above-grade clay storage
requirements.
The undersigned parties agree that these changes
represent the best possible waste disposal and reclamation
plan for the MCC project, considering state-of-the art
technology, environmental factors, and the objectives of
Chapter 380, Florida Statutes.
26. The undersigned have considered waste dis-
posal and reclamation plans and technologies proposed by
other mining operations, including chemical and mechanical
processes, which may result in substantially less above-
grade storage of clay. The parties have determined that
differences in results are caused by site specific char-
acteristics and that these other methods and technologies
are not appropriate to the MCC project. On the basis of
state-of-the art technology, MCC can commit to no less than
3,700 acres of above-grade storage at this time. However,
MCC has further committed to investigate and implement
feasible advances in technology which could reduce the
volume of above-grade storage required for this project.
27. The undersigned agree that the waste disposal
and reclamation plan currently proposed by MCC is acceptable
and will not create significant edverse regional impacts.
The implementation of any advances in technology which
reduce the volume of above-grade storage will further reduce
potential regional impacts.
8
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28. The changes set forth in Paragraph 25 will
require the back-filling of mined areas previously designated
for "lakes". The elimination of these lakes is not consistent
with the original desires of Hardee County, but is acceptable
to the County and to the other parties to this Stipulation
in light of the need for reducing above-grade clay storage,
29. The changes set forth in Paragraph 25 further
require reduction of the depth of the Brushy Creek Reservoir,
which is designed to store surface water for use in the MCC
mining and beneficiation process. Back-filling of the
reservoir will reduce its storage volume but at that stage
in the life of the mine, additional volume will be available
elsewhere in the mine.
30. The changes set forth in Paragraph 25 require
the rehandling of clays late in mine life or after completion
of mining activities. This rehandling process is necessary
in order to reduce above-grade settling, and offsets the
cost and operational difficulties caused thereby. .Further-
more, the use of energy for relocating waste clays has been
considered and found to be a reasonable use of energy
resources.
31. MCC will utilize a sand/clay nix material for
capping above-grade storage areas. This will allow maximum
benefit from the limited amount of sand evailable for mixing
with clay. This benefit is derived from concentrating the
weight of the available sand at the top of the column of
clay, thus exerting the maximum influence for consolidation.
32. The undersigned parties have discussed fie
appropriate configuration for lakes which will remain on
site. If the depth of these lakes is linited to 25 feet at
the deepest point, with an average depth of greater than 15
feet, and if the lakes have extensive littoral zones placed
irregularly around the shore with sice slopes of 4:1 or
less, water quality and fish and wildlife values will be
-------
enhanced. Restoration of Oak C^eek, Brushy Creek and Hickory
Creek to a meandering configuration with adjacent floodplains,
will further enhance the water quality and fish and wildlife
values of the reclaimed land.
33. The undersigned parties agree that MCC requires
the capability of drying up to 3 million tons per year of
rock, in order to supply its existing chemical fertilizer
facilities, which cannot accept wet rock, and to be in a
reasonably competitive position to market the balance of its
production. However, some reduction in rock drying may be
possible by sales of surplus to wet rock customers. MCC is
willing to actively seek wet rock customers and thereby
mitigate the effects of rock drying. Under these circum-
stances, together with the application of Best Available
Control Technology for air emissions, potential impacts on
regional air quality have been mitigated to the extent
possible and should be acceptable.
General Conditions
34. The final order to be adopted by the Florida
Land and Water Adjudicatory Commission should constitute
final approval of the ADA and application for permit for
mineral extraction as modified, which were submitted by MCC
to Hardee County as described above.
35. Definitions contained in Chapter 380, Florida
Statutes should control the construction of terms appearing
in the filial order.
36. The final order should not encompass any
proposed developments which are not commenced until after
the expiration of the period of effectiveness of the final
order, or which constitute a substantial deviation from the
terms of the ADA, the application for permit for mineral
extraction, or the associated and supporting documents. As
used in the final order, substantial deviation should mean
any change to the development of regional impact as approved
10
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herein which creates a reasonable likelihood of additional
adverse regional impact or any other regional impact created
by the change not previously reviewed by the Central Florida
Regional Planning Council. Provided, however, that in
determining whether such a substantial deviation has occurred,
the Board may require a review as changes in the design or
operation occur, by such authorities as the Board may desig-
nate. Changes in the design or operation of the mine or
beneficiation plant which are made as a result of a permit
requirement or condition imposed by the Department of
Natural Resources, the Department of Environmental Regula-
tion, or any water management district created by Section
373.069, Florida Statutes, or their successor agencies, or
any appropriate federal regulatory agency, shall not be
deemed a substantial deviation which requires further review
and approval according to the provisions of Section 380.06,
Florida Statutes.
37. The scope of operations to be permitted
pursuant to the final order are those specified in the ADA,
the application for permit for mineral extraction, and all
documents submitted in support of these applications, all of
which are hereby incorporated by reference, as modified by
the conditions set forth below.
38. Further review of requests for local develop-
ment permits submitted by MCC shall not be required, except
that:
(a) Further review pursuant to Chapter 380,
Florida Statutes will be necessary:
(1) Should the development not be
capable of at least 50% production by June 30, 1988;
(2) Should a substantial deviation from
the terms of this development order occur.
(b) Further approval by local government may
be necessary if any deviation from requirements of the
Hardee County Mining Ordinance occur.
11
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Specific PevelopEent Conditions
The approval of a final order shall further be
conditioned upon MCC complying with the following conditions:
39. Water: MCC shall adhere strictly to the
provisions of the (SWFWMD) Southwest Florida Water Manage-
ment District Consumptive Use Permit granted on May 4, 1977.
Additionally, a water storage pond shall be constructed and
used to reduce the need for "make up" water. Notice of any
requests for modification to the original SWFWMD permit must
be provided to the Hardee County Board of County Commissioners,
the Regional Planning Council, and the DVCA. MCC shall also
comply with Section 8.B and 8.D of Amendment No. 1 of the
Hardee County Mining and Earthmcving Ordinance.
If other water consuming activities are undertaken
on this land, said total amount of water now permitted shall
not be exceeded.
Stream flows and drainage areas shall be restored
to their pre-mining quantity and cuality upon the-completion
of reclamation.
40. Wells: Within seven months from the date the
appeal by the DVCA is resolved, MCC shall place and have
operational two lower Floridan observation wells as desig-
nated in Exhibit D in Section 14, T24S, R24E and in Section
28, T34S, R23E for the purpose cf monitoring the ground
water potentiometric surface and water quality.
The Board may require additional observation
wells, if it is deemed necessary to obtain further infor-
mation, at sites to be designated by the County and set
forth on Exhibit D, within 30 days after the approval of the
'Development Order. If additional wells are required, said
wells shall be constructed and be operational within seven
months from the date the DVCA appeal is resolved. These
wells, designated on Exhibit D, shall be r.onitored on a
12
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continuous basis and shall be maintained for the purpose of
monitoring the water levels from the shallow water table
aquifer, potentiometric surface of the upper unit of the
Floridan Aquifer and the lower unit of the Floridan Aquifer.
At the time of the annual review, a report will be made on
the continuing study of the feasibility of the use of re-
charge wells on the MCC property.
The Board shall establish minimum water levels for
the shallow water table aquifer, the upper unit of the
Floridan Aquifer, and the lower unit of the Floridan Aquifer
at a future date after 24 months of data gathering, but
before actual mining. Maintenance of these levels shall
require that MCC reduce withdrawal from ground water sources
at times when water levels fall below the minimum.
MCC shall take corrective measures and place in an
operable condition any well that is in existence on the date
of initiation of consumptive water use (#77-9) that may be
damaged due to the lowering of the water level during the
first 4 years of MCC mining operation within a radius of
three (3) miles from the designated production wells as
approved by SWFWMD order #77-9, excluding mechanical failure
and faulty equipment in the above mentioned well.
After the expiration of the aforesaid four (4)
years, MCC shall remain responsible for all such wells that
are damaged by MCC.
MCC shall also assume the responsibility and the
corrective measures to put in an operable condition any
shallow well, down to 300 feet in depth, in existence on the
date of initiation of consumptive water use (#77-9) within
1/4 mile .(1320 feet) of their property perimeter where
actual excavation of phosphate matrix is being conducted.
In the event any well as described in the pre-
ceding paragraphs be located within the prescribed protected
13
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distances f«ct t» «
^^ event ^ lespoM1-
cbemica! companies, *" „,
bility an, corrective — - <-
—-
be
(b) The following
undertaken early in mine life.
on. acre in size
, eacV. b«i->5
^ MeoM £tesh.
'
water marsh. ^ ^ located on
The experim ...... ccranon section comer
. . ^n the vicinity 01 x.r—
-n i? fT34St R2^£)• -his
of sections 29, 30, 31, 32 (13
chosen because: ^ natural water source is
present,
ox T,-tural swamps and marshes
2) are relatively close,
3) the site is already clear
} of ticier, and
4) . vehicular access is relatively
easy.
i-e'-al s
•»«•-••
14
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y
-
and one of the svazan >
.». r r.
one of the marsh
°ur
-... « v r:es
ic5, ^
(Exhibit
15
-------
E); will be used as model areas. All model areas will be
verified as being typical for that wetland type on the
property.
Marshes - A - Large marsh in Sec.
28, T34S, R23E
B - Marsh at corner of
Sees. 28, 29, 32, 33,
T34S, R24E
C - A small marsh just
south of SR 64 in Sec.
31, T34S, R24E
Swamps - D - Large swamp in Section
17, T34S, R24E
E - Swamp in Section 28,
T34S, R23E .
F - A small swamp in
Sees. 32 and 33, T34S,
R23E on Post Plant Road.
(c) The following factors shall be con-
sidered in determining the functional equivalency of experi-
mental and model wetlands: faur.a and flora present, diversity
and density of each, hydroperiod and water storage per acre,
and water quality enhancement. Consequently, the monitoring
program during the experimental wetlands project will entail
a number of specific field parameters relating to the vegeta-
tion, soils, wildlife, water quality and hydrology of the
wetlands.
1. The various parameters used to
evaluate wetlands reclamation are:
vegetation composition bird density and
vegetation structural diversity
complexity mammal density
vegetation productivity and diversity
soil organic matter water quality
litter weight parameters
litter depth hydrologic character
The above parameters for the experimental wetlands
are not expected to be initially comparable to the same
measurements taken from the appropriate model wetlands.
However, with time, most of these parameters are expected to
16
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change until they are close to -'natural" values. The con-
sistent progression of these parameters towards values found
in model systems, rather than actual equivalency, will be
the criterion for evaluating whether functional equivalency
is obtained.
(i) Vegetation
Vegetation studies will compare the composition,
structural complexity, and productivity of the
floral components of the model wetlands and the
created wetlands.
(A) Composition. Species composition of over-
story, understory, and groundcover strate
will be determined by a variety of techniques,
Overstory vegetation will be sampled by the
point quarter technique, yielding data on
species density, frequency, and basal area.
Understory vegetation will be sampled by a
modified point quarter technique giving
species density and frequency. Groundcover
vegetation will be sampled by either a point-
intercept method or a quadrat method, depend-
ing on field conditions, providing percent
cover by species and frequency of occurrence.
For the model wetlands, overstory and under-
story strata will be sampled once and ground-
cover vegetation will be sampled seasonally
(quarterly) for at least one (1) year. For
the experimental wetlands, groundcover vegeta-
tion will be sampled quarterly for the duration
of the experimental wetlands project. Under-
story and overstory will be sampled in experi-
mental wetlands often enough to reflect major
changes in species density or composition.
Special attention will be given to describing
17
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overstory reproduction (seedlings) for both
model and experimental wetlands.
(B) Structural Complexity. The vertical and
horizontal structural complexity of vegeta-
tion greatly affects wildlife utilization and
is an important indicator of a system's
ecologic maturity. The measurement of struc-
tural complexity will be accomplished by
optical devices such as solar radiometers or
gamma reflectors. One year of seasonal
readings will be taken for model wetlands,
whereas, experimental wetlands will be" moni-
tored on a continuing basis.
(C) Productivity. The net primary productivity
of wetlands ground cover vegetation will be
derived from clip plots of standing crops.
Tree cores will be taken in model wetlands to
determine the age of existing timber and to
establish the relationship between trunk
diameter and age. Cores will be taken in
experimental wetlands as trees of unknown age
(i.e. nonplanted) reach a significant size.
It should also be recognized that basal area
and optical density data have a bearing on
biomass and consequently nay serve as partial
indicators of net prod-action.
(ii) Soils
Soil sampling of model and experimental wetlands
will include soil organic natter (top 10 cm),
litter weight, litter depth, and qualitative
examination of soil profile to one meter depth.
Litter weight and depth will be sampled quarterly,
with model wetlands being sampled for one (1) year
and experimental wetlands for the duration of the
experimental wetlands project.
18
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(iii) Wildlife
Aside from general qualitative wildlife observa- .
tions, time-area counts (for birds) and small
mammal trapping will be conducted seasonally for
one (1) year minimum in model wetlands. These
techniques will be duplicated for experimental
wetlands once vegetative cover has been established.
(iv) Water Quality
Total Suspended Solids, phosphorus, pE, dissolved
oxygen, and biochemical oxygen demand will be
sampled in both model and experimental wetlands.
Model wetlands will be sampled monthly when flow-
through is occurring, with a sampling following
the first storm event after no flow. Samples will
be taken quarterly during periods of no flow.
(v) Hydrology
The hydrologic character of both codel and experi-
mental wetlands will be determined via quarterly
monitoring. Water level recorders, ground contour
systems, rain gauges, pan evaporators, and peizometer
wells will be used as necessary to obtain data.
42. Wetlands Preservation and Restoration: The
hardwood swamp in Section 29, (T34S, R24E) consisting of
about 56.7 acres, shall be preserved. Eowever, when and if
MCC can demonstrate to the satisfaction of the DVCA and
Hardee County that hardwood swarp restoration can be success-
fully accomplished, and the concurrence of DVCA and the
county is confirmed in writing, the 56.7 acre hardwood swamp
in Section 29 may be mined without further DSI review. The
.112.5 acre fresh marsh in Sections 32 and 33 (T34S, R24E)
and in Sections 4 and 5 (T35S, R24E) and the 63.7 acre
hardwood swamp in Section 17 (T34S, R24E) shall be left
unmined until MCC demonstrates to the satisfaction of DVCA •
and the county that the pilot project is successful.
19
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Furthermore, using information tf*ined from the wetlands
restoration pilot project, MCC will create hardwood swamps
and fresh marsh on suitable land, as shown on Exhibit C,
with approximately 475 acres of hardvoods and 1975 acres of
marsh restored. After completion of this program, acreage
equal to about 85% of the original wetlands acreage will
exist. If some higher percentage of restoration is required
by rules of the Department of Natural Resources applicable
at the time of DNR permit review, MCC shall comply. Re-
quests for variances to mine in the remaining floodplains
shall be made on an annual basis at the time of mining plan
review for the next year.
43. Reclamation: Vegetation to be used in recla-
mation will be with native species only except where appro-
priate for agricultural use and such selection shall be made
in consultation with the County Agent. MCC will maintain
vegetation on preservation areas and on reclaimed land. MCC
will adhere to the waste disposal and reclamation provisions
presented in the DRI-ADA, as further described below and on
Exhibit F. MCC shall submit, at least 6 months prior to the
use of the initial settling area, the method of clay disposal
to be used in that area. Each year thereafter, this subject
shall be addressed at the time of Annual Review. MCC will
utilize a sand/clay mix technique for capping above-grade
storage areas and will adopt advances in technology which
are feasible on a plant scale and which would result in
reduction of above-grade storage of clay. Above-grade
disposal areas shall not exceed an average of 60 feet in
height above the natural grade curing active life of any
•settling area. At no point shall actual dam height exceed
65 feet above natural grade. Portions of the dam approach-
ing 65 feet shall not extend laterally more than 100 yards
at any one place. Clay storage areas shall not occupy more
than 3,700 acres after reclamation. The depth of all lakes
20
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on the property will be limltea to 25 feet at the deepest
point and shall have an average depth no greater than 15
feet with extensive littoral zones placed irregularly
through the lake and side slopes of 4:1 or less, unless
research accepted by the Board, the Central Florida Regional
Planning Council, MCC, and the DVCA shows that design modi-
fications would be beneficial to the maintenance of water
quality and fish and wildlife values. Oak Creek, Brushy
Creek and Hickory Creek shall be restored to a meandering
stream .configuration with adjacent floodplains similar in
acreage to those that existed prior to mining. Restoration
of streams and wetlands, shall be as shown generally"on
Exhibit C. Subsequent to reclamation, connection to the
natural system, and acceptance by Hardee County, MCC shall
not degrade water quality below state water quality
standards.
44. Roads: MCC is to coordinate with Hardee
County and the Florida Phosphate Council and other, phosphate
companies planning to mine in the area for the upgrading of
the Fort Green-Ona Road and the Vancolah Road to an all-
weather, hard-surfaced road capable of supporting state
maximum load and size trucks. In the event that the Fort
Green-Ona Road is not improved prior to commencement of
construction, a plant road must be built to a hard-surfaced
arterial road capable of supporting naxisium capacity trucks.
An alternative to either of the above proposals is to con-
struct a road from State Road 62 to State Road 64 which will
meet state load and size standards and then dedicate the
road to the County. Where possible, mining may be conducted
•under contiguous transportation rights of way and under
man-made structures with MCC to provide relocation of dis-
placed activity to similar land form.
MCC will deed to Hardee County additional right- '
of-way up to 50 feet from current right-of-way for public
roads where MCC owns the land along the read. Right-of-way
21
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along existing roads on the date of this order shall control
the setback as set forth in Item 8^1-b of the Hardee County
Mining and Earthmoving Ordinance. It is further agreed that
when the setback is reduced due to deeding additional right-
of-way along that area outside the original setback, the
area will be reclaimed within 30 (thirty) days after the
area is mined. MCC shall notify the County Engineer when-
ever vehicles having a GVW greater than 40,000 pounds and
creating more than four trips per day will be using County
roads. MCC shall also get a special permit from the County
Engineer or conform to any future Hardee County operating
policy regarding vehicle permits, whenever the vehicle load,
width and/or length requires a state permit.
45. Land & Lakes Reclamation Area: MCC shall, if
it acquires the surface rights for the tract, convey by
Warranty Deed a minimum of 640 acres to the County of Hardee
in the land and lake reclamation area for the purpose of a
public recreation park.
46. Rock Dryer: MCC requires three million tons
per year drying capacity, but will reduce the actual amount
of rock dried by the amount of surplus sold to wet rock
customers. Furthermore, the company will actively seek wet
rock customers.
Conclusions of Law
47." On the basis of the foregoing, the under-
signed parties agree that the proposed development is con-
sistent with the objectives and retirements of Chapter 380,
Florida Statutes, and should be approved.
C. Laurence Keesey
Attomey for Bureau of
Land & Water Management,
Division of Local Resource
KiBsgement, Department of v
i,-<4 Ccr_-unity Affairs
22
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— \
_ ._
/.Judith S. Kavanaugn
S Environmental Counsel for
Hardee County
Jeff/ J/McKibben
^Atrtorney for Central Florida
Regional Planning Council
Roger W.\ Sims -'
Holland J& Knight
Attorneys for Mississippi
Chemical Corporation
23
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THIS PAGE LEFT BLANK INTENTIONALLY
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COUNTY OF HARDEE, STACE OF FLORIDA
IN RE: The application for development approval of a
development of regional impact and the app.Tication
for a permit for mineral extraction and other
authorizations required by arendr.ent No. 1 to
Bardee County Ordinance Ko. 73-6 by Mississippi
Chemical Corporation
AMENDED DEVELOPMENT ORDER
WHEREAS, Mississippi Chemical Corporation (herein-
after referred to as "MCC"), filed on February 18, 1977,
with the Board of County Commissioners of Eardee County,
Florida (hereinafter referred to as "the Board*), a political
subdivision of the State of Florida, an Application for
Development Approval of a Development of Regional Impact
(hereinafter referred to as "ADA"), pursuant to Section
380.06, Florida Statutes, an application for a Permit for
Mineral Extraction and other authorizations as required by
the Mining and Reclamation Master Plan as provided in that
ordinance, copies of all applications filed with, and
approvals received from all applicable federal, state and
local agencies, evidence of financial responsibility, and an
application fee; and
WHEREAS, these proceedings relate to a proposed
phosphate mining operation to be conducted u?or. approximately
14,850 acres of real property (hereinafter referred to as
"the tract"), owned or controlled by MCC ir. Kardee County,
Florida in accordance with the aforesaid documents; and
WHEREAS, MCC has previously epplied for, and was
granted a zoning variance by the Board on April 15, 1977,
changing the zoning classification c,f the land from A-l
(Agricultural) to M-l (Mining and Sarth Moving District);
and
WHEREAS, MCC has previously applied for, and was
granted, Consumptive Use Permit Number 27703567 on May 4,
1977 by the Southwest Florida Water Kar.aser.ent District for
proposed phosphate mining and processing operations on the
tract; and
Exhibit A
-------
WHEREAS, The Board has received and considered the
report and recommendations of the Central Florida Regional
Planning Council, and has received consents from other
agencies, including the Southwest Florida Water Management
District and the Hardee County Building and Zoning Depart-
ment; and
WHEREAS, the Central Florida Regional Planning
Council in its report to the Board fully performed the
duties required of it pursuant to Section 380.06(8), Florida
Statutes; and
WHEREAS, the Board conducted public hearings
beginning January 30, 1978 and ending February 27, 1978,
after notification, publication and posting in the manner
prescribed by Section 380.06, Florida Statutes, and Hardee
County Ordinance No. 73-6, as amended; and
WHEREAS, all those identified as parties to these
proceedings at the public hearing were affcreed the oppor-
tunity to file responses, to present evidence and argument
on all issues, to conduct cross-examination and submit
rebuttal evidence, and to submit proposed findings of fact
to the Board. In addition, any merger of the general public
requesting to do so was given an opportunity to present oral
or written communications to the Board, and all parties were
afforded an opportunity to cross-exanine any member of the
general public so appearing.
WHEREAS, the Board has considered the above-
described testimony and evidence, and has reviewed all
documents submitted by each party and r.eiriers of the general
public, and the Board being otherwise fully advised in the
premises,
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVZD, by. the Board of
County Commissioners of Hardee County, Florida:
1. This Resolution shall constitute the Develop-
ment Order of the Board issued in response to the ADA and
Application for Permit for Mineral Extraction, together with
all supporting documents, submitted herein by MCC.
-2-
-------
2. That the definitions contained in Section
380, Florida Statutes, shall control the construction of any
defined terms appearing in this Development Order.
3. This Development Order shall be deemed
rendered as of the date of this Resolution for purposes of
computing the 45-day appeal period provided in Section
380.07(2), Florida Statutes.
4. This Development Order shall reaain in effect
for a period of 48 years from the date of final resolution
of the appeal by the Department of Veteran and Community
Affairs, provided that the effective period of this Order
may be extended by the Board upon a finding of excusable
delay in any proposed development activity.
5. This Development Order shall net encompass
any proposed developments which constitute a substantial
deviation from the terms of the ADA, the Application for
Permit for Mineral Extraction, together with all associated
and supporting documents, or which are not connenced until
after the expiration of the period of effectiveness of this
Order. As used in this Order, substantial deviation shall
mean any change to the Development of ?.egicnal Impact as
approved herein which creates a reasonable likelihood of
additional adverse regional impact, or any o-ther regional
impact created by the change not previously reviewed by the
Central Florida Regional Planning Council. Provided,
however, that in determining whether such a substantial
deviation has occurred, the Board may require a review as
changes in the design or operation deviation have occurred,
by such authorities as the Board may designate. Changes in
the design or operation of the mine, or be.-.eficiation plant
which are made as a result of a permit requirement, or
condition imposed by the Department of Natural Resources,
the Department of Environmental Regulation, or any water
management district created by Section 373.OSS, Florida
-3-
-------
Statutes, or their successor ager.c:.=£ . or any expropriate
federal regulatory agency, shall net be denied a substantial
deviation which requires further review and approval according
to the provisions of Section 380.01, Tlorida Statutes.
6. The scope of operations to be permitted
pursuant to this Order are those specified in the ADA, the
Application for Permit for Mineral Extraction, together with
all documents submitted in support of those applications,
all of which are hereby incorporated by reference in this
Order, as modified by the condition hereinafter set forth.
•HOW THEREFORE, BE IT FURI3ES HESOLV3D, by the
Board, as findings of fact:
1. MCC owns or controls approximately 14,850
acres of land in Hardee County, Florida, upon which it
proposes to conduct phosphate rock mining and beneficiation
operations. Operations are expected tc becin curing the
period between 1983 and 1987.
2. The proposed mining development is not
located in an area of critical state concern.
3. The State of Florid* has not adopted a land
development plan applicable to the area in which the proposed
development is to be located.
4. The Board has considered whether, and the
extent to which the proposed developments would create an
additional demand for, or additional use of energy, and has
determined from the record herein thti existing sources of
energy are sufficient to supply the energy required by these
developments, and that those existing sources will not be
unduly burdened by the proposed developments.
5. The proposed developments are consistent with
all local and state land development laws and regulations.
6. The Central Florida Hegional Planning Council,
pursuant to its duties set forth i- Section 380.06, Florida
Statutes, has conducted a complete review for -^ ADA to
-4-
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determine whether, and the extent ~o which this development
will have favorable or unfavorable ir.pacts upon the environ-
ment, natural resources and economy of the region, as well
as the other criteria set forth in Section 380.06(6), Florida
Statutes. The report of the Central Florida Regional
Planning Council was filed with •the Board on January 6,
1978, and has been thoroughly reviewed by the Board's staff.
This report recommended approval with conditions for the
mining operation. The report of Central Florida Regional
Planning Council and the conditions contained therein were
individually and collectively considered by the Board at the
various public hearings and workshops which were conducted
in this matter.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, by the Board, that the
Application for Development Approval of a Development of
Regional Impact and the Application for Permit for Mineral
Extraction be, and the ssme are hereby approved, subject to
•the following conditions, restrictions and limitations:
1. Further review of requests for local development
permits submitted by MCC shall not be required, except that:
(a) Further review pursuant to Section 380,
Florida Statutes, will be necessary:
(1) Should the development not be
capable of at least 50% production by June 30, 1988;
(2) Should a substantial deviation from
the terms of this Development Order occur.
(b) Further approval by local Government may
be necessary if any deviation from requirements of the
Hardee County Mining Ordinance No. 73-6, Amendment No. 1
occur.
2. The approval of this Development Order shall
further be conditioned upon MCC complying with the following
conditions taken from and which are consistent with the
-5-
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report of the Central Florida Regional Planning Council
dated January 6, 1978, and rewritten by the Board to clarify
the intent thereof:
CONDITION A. WATER
MCC shall adhere strictly to the provisions of the
(SWFWMD) Southwest Florida Water Management District Con-
sumptive Use Permit granted on May 4, 1977. Additionally,
a water storage pond shall be constructed and used to
reduce the need for "make up" water. Kotice of any requests
for modification to the original SWFKMD permit must be
provided to the Bardee County Board of County Commissioners,
the Regional Planning Council, and the Department of Veteran
and Community Affairs. MCC shall also comply with Section
8.B and 8.D of Amendment No. 1 of the Eardee County Mining
and Earth Moving Ordinance.
If other water consuming activities are undertaken
on this land, said total amount of water now permitted shall
not be exceeded.
Stream flows and drainage areas shall be restored
to their premining quantity and quality upon the completion
of reclamation.
CONDITION B. WELLS
Within seven months from the date the appeal by
the Department of Veteran and Community Affairs (DVCA) is
resolved, MCC shall place and have operational two lower
Floridan observation wells as designated in Exhibit A in
Section 14, T34S, R24E and in Section 28, T34S, R23E for the
purpose of monitoring the ground water potentiometric surface
and water quality.
The Board may require additional observation
wells, if it is deemed necessary to obtain further infor-
mation, at sites to be designated by the County and set
forth on Exhibit A, within 30 days after the approval of the
-6-
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Development Order. If additional veils are required, said
wells shall be constructed and be operational within seven
I
months from the date the DVCA appeal is resolved. These
wells, designated on Exhibit A, shall be monitored on a
continuous basis and shall be maintained for the purpose of
monitoring the water levels from the shallow water table
aquifer, potentioroetric surface of the upper unit of the
Floridan Aquifer and the lower unit of the Floridan Aquifer.
At the time of the annual review, a report will be made on
the continuing study of the feasibility of the use of recharge
wells on the MCC property.
The Board shall establish riir.imua water levels for
the shallow water table aquifer, the upper unit of the
Floridan Aquifer, and the lower unit of the rioridan Aquifer
at a future date after 24 months of data gathering, but
before actual mining. Maintenance of these levels shall
require that MCC reduce withdrawal fro- ground water sources
at times when water levels fall below the ruLninum.
MCC shall take corrective Treasures ar.d place in an
operable condition any well that is in existence on the date
of initiation of consumptive water use (=77-9) that may be
damaged due to the lowering of the water level during the
first 4 years of MCC mining operation within a radius of
three (3) miles from the designated production wells as
approved by SWFWMD order #77-9, excluding r.echanical failure
and faulty equipment in the above rentionec well.
After the expiration of the aforesaid four (4)
years, MCC shall remain responsible for all such wells that
are damaged by MCC.
MCC shall also assume the responsibility and the
corrective measures to put in an cperaile condition any
shallow well, down to 300 feet in cepth, in existence on the
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date of initiation of consumptive yater use («77-9) with 1/4
mile (1320 feet) of their property perineter where actual
excavation of phosphate matrix is being conducted.
In the event any well as described in the preceding
paragraphs be located within the prescribed protected distance
and such distances affect two or more phosphate and/or
chemical companies, then in that event the responsibility
and corrective measures required above shall be borne
equitably by said phosphate and/or chezical companies.
CONDITION C. WETLANDS PRESERVATIOK AND RESTORATION
•MCC shall conduct an experimental wetlands restoration
pilot project early in mine life, as described in appendices
"C-2" and "C-3".
The hardwood swamp in Section 29, (T34S, R24E)
consisting of about 56.7 acres, shall be preserved. However,
when and if MCC can demonstrate to the satisfaction of the
DVCA and Hardee County that hardwood svar.p restoration^ can
be successfully accomplished, and the cor.ciirrer.ee of DVCA
and the county is confirmed in writing, the 56.7 acre hardwood
swamp in Section 29 may be mined without further DRI review.
The 112.5 acre fresh marsh in Sections 32 and 33 (T34S, R24E)
and in Sections 4 and 5 (T35S, R24E) ar.d the 63.7 acre
hardwood swamp in Section 17 (T34S, R242) shall be left
unmined until MCC demonstrates to the satisfaction of DVCA
and the county that the pilot project is successful. Further-
more, using information gained fron the wetlands restoration
pilot project, MCC will create hardwood swasips and fresh
marsh on suitable land, as shown on Exhibit C, with approximately
475 acres of hardwoods and 1975 acres of marsh restored.
After completion of this program, acreage will exist equal
to the greater of either (a) approximately 85% of the original
wetland acreage, or (b) the percentage of wetlands required
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to be restored under the provisions of Section 16C-16.051(4),
Florida Administrative Code, which is applicable at the time
MCC reclamation is approved by DNR. (It is understood for
informational purposes that at the tice of the effective
date of this Development Order, Section 160-16.051(4},
Florida Administrative Code, requires that 100% of the
acreage of wetlands on all tracts subject to the jurisdiction
of the Department of Natural Resources under Chapter 16C-16,
Florida Administrative Code must be restored.) Requests for
variances to mine in the remaining floodplains shall be made
on an annual basis at the time of nining plan review for the
next year.
CONDITION D. RECLSJ&TIOK
Vegetation to be used in reclamation will be with
native species only except where appropriate for agricultural
use and such selection shall be mase in consultation with
the County Agent. MCC will maintain vegetation on preservation
areas and on reclaimed land. MCC will adhere to the waste
disposal and reclamation provisions presented in the -DRI-
ADA, as further described in Exhibit T. MCC shall
submit, at least 6 months prior to the use of the initial
settling area, the method of clay disposal to be used in
that area. Each year thereafter, this subject shall be
addressed at the time of Annual Review. XCC will utilize a
sand/clay mix technique for capping aJssve-crade storage
areas and will adopt advances in technology which are
feasible on a plant scale and which would result in reduction
of above-grade storage of clay. KCC shall undertake demonstration
or pilot projects of technologies which have been developed
to the point that such demonstration or pilot projects are
feasible and would be of benefit. Initially, KCC shall
within three years after the commencement of mining pursuant
to this Development Order, underta/.e a pilot project to
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investigate the value and perforir^ce cf a clarifier/thickener
process using chemical flocculants in reducing the volume of
waste clays. Subsequent to the implementation of this
initial pilot project, MCC shall in conjunction with each
annual review present a report concerning technological
advancements which have taken place during the proceeding
year, including a statement of the vievs of MCC on whether
or not any such technological advancement(s) have reached a
state where a pilot or demonstration project in conjunction
with the MCC mine governed by this Development Order would
be possible. Initiation of such pilot projects may be
required of MCC by modification of the Development Order at
the time of annual review. Above grade disposal areas shall
not exceed an average of 60 feet in height above the natural
grade during active life of any settling area. At no point
shall actual dam height exceed 65 feet above natural grade.
Portions of the dam approaching 65 feet shall not extend
laterally more than 100 yards at ar.y or.e place. Clay storage
areas shall not occupy more than 3,700 acres after reclamation.
The 3700 acre size limitation is an absolute maximum allowable,
considering technology available as cf the effective date of
this Development Order, and shall be reduced if upon annual
review it is determined that advances in technology which
are feasible on a plant scale would result in reduction of
above-grade storage of clay. The reduction in the maximum
allowable size of the above-grade storage area order at the
time of any annual review shall be ccmr.ensurate with the
capabilities of the technological advar.ces determined feasible
at that time. It is the express intent of this Development
Order that "To the greatest extent practical, all waste
clays shall be disposed of below grace, in a manner that
avoids the long term existence of elevated clay disposal
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areas." as requried by Section 16Crl6.051(9)(a)2, Florida
Administrative Code, and that assurance that this requirement
is met be facilitated through the annual review process.
The depth of all lakes on the property will be limited to 25
feet at the deepest point and shall have an average depth no
greater than 15 feet with extensive littoral zones placed
irregularly through the lake and side slopes of 4:1 or less,
unless research accepted by the Board, the Regional Planning
Council, CFRPC, MCC, and the DVCA shows that design modifications
would be beneficial to the maintenance of water quality and
fish and wildlife values. Oak Creek, Brushy Creek and
Hickory Creek shall be restored to a meandering stream
configuration with adjacent floodplains similar in acreage
to those that existed prior to mining. Restoration of
streams and wetlands, shall be as showr. generally on Exhibit
C. Subsequent to reclamation, connection to the natural
system, and acceptance by Hardee County, MCC shall not -
degrade water quality below state water quality standards.
CONDITION E. ROADS
MCC is to coordinate with Harcee Cour.ty and the
Florida Phosphate Council and other phosphate companies
planning to mine in the area for the upgrading of the Fort
Green-Ona Road and the Vandolah Road to an all-weather,
hard-surfaced road capable of supporting state naximum load
and size trucks. In the event that the Fort Green-Ona Road
is not improved prior to commencement of construction, a
plant road must be built to a hard-surfaced arterial road
capable of supporting maximum capacity trucks. An alternative
to either of the above proposals is to construct a road from
State Road 62 to State Road 64 which will r.eet state load
and size standards and then dedicate the road to the County.
Where possible, mining may be conducted ur.cer contiguous
transportation rights of way and under _.a.n--ade structures
with MCC to provide relocation of displaced activity to
similar land form.
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MCC will deed to Bardee Cs-.ir.-y additional right-
of-way up to 50 feet from current right-of-way for public
road« where MCC owns the land along the road. Right-of-way
along existing roads on the date of this order shall control
the setback as set forth in Item 8-1-b of the Hardee County
Mining and Earth Moving Ordinance. It is further agreed
that when the setback is reduced due to deeding additional
right-of-way along that area outside the original setback,
the area will be reclaimed within 30 (thirty) cays after the
area is mined. MCC shall notify the County Engineer whenever
vehicles having a GVW greater than 40,000 pounds, and creating
more than four trips per day will be using County roads.
MCC shall also get a special permit frc* the County Engineer
or conform to any future Hardee County operating policy
regarding vehicle permits, whenever the vehicle load, width
and/or length requires a state permit.
CONDITION F. LAND 6 LAKES A3CLAM&TIOS AREA
MCC shall, if it acquires the surface rights for
the tract, convey by Warranty Deed a aininan of 640 acres to
the County of Bardee in the land and like reclamation area
for the purpose of a public recreation park.
CONDITION G. ROCK Dr.YER
MCC requires three million tens per year drying
capacity, but will reduce the actual acount of rock dried by
the amount of surplus sold to wet rock customers. Further-
more, the company will actively seek wet rock customers.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT FURSEE?. RESOLVZD, by the
Board, as conclusions of law, that these proceedings have
been duly conducted pursuant to the previsions of Section
380, Florida Statutes, and the applicable provisions of the
Hardee County Mining and Earth Movir.c Ordinance, and that
based upon the record in these proceedings MCC has sustained
and proved all the material allegations and assertions made
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by it in the above-mentioned doc^-ents, and that MCC is
entitled to the relief prayed and applied for in said
applications, subject to the conditions, restrictions, and
limitations hereinafter set forth.
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Appendix D
Consumptive Use Permit
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SOUTHWEST FLORIDA WATER MANAGEMENT DISTRICT
IN RE:
MISSISSIPPI CHEMICAL CORPORATION )
CONSUMPTIVE USE PERMIT )
APPLICATION HO. 277C3567 . ) ORDER NO. 77-9
"WORK OF THE DISTRICT" PERMIT )
APPLICATION NO. 76-326 )
ORDER GRANTING PERMIT PURSUANT TO
HEARING BEFORE GOVERNING BOARD
This natter came on to be heard by the Governing
Board of the Southwest Florida Water Management District at a
public hearing on May 4, 1977. Said public hearing, being duly
and properly noticed, was conducted at District Headquarters,
5060 U.S. Highway 41 South, Brooksville, Florida, and all
parties hereto were present or given the opportunity to be
present, and together with the general public, were given an
opportunity to present testimony and evidence. .The Board, having
reviewed the applications and all documents in the File of Record,
having heard testimony, and having received and examined all
documentary evidence, makes the following
'••- FINDINGS OF FACT:
1. Pursuant to Chapter 373. Florida Statutes, and
'"Chapter 16J, Florida Administrative Code. Mississippi Chemical
Corporation has made application (Application No. 27703567) to
the Southwest Florida Water Management District for a consumptive
use permit authorizing the average annual withdrawal of
16,981,920 gallons of water per day (gpd) and the maximum daily
withdrawal of 33.850,500 gallons per day (gpd) in Hardee County.
Florida. The applicant presently owns, controls, or will own
or control (prior to initiation of consumptive water use)
approximately 14.719 acres of land in Hardee County, Florida.
The applicant proposes to withdraw the water for the purpose of
mining and beneficiating 3 million tons per year of phosphate rock.
2. At the present time 11,501.4 acres of the
foregoing 14.719 acre tract is aerving as a cource of water
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for persons withdrawing water under existing use permits.
to-wit:
Donald E. and Susan Smith - Permit No. 27703508
Doyle E. Carlton. Ill - Permit Nos. 27703518,
Wy . 27703519, and 27703520
Jane Carlton - Permit No. 27703521
3. The foregoing existing consumptive use of
5,579,589 gallons per day on an annual average basis is 413,
less than the average water crop throughout the District and is
being withdrawn for the purpose of providing ditch irrigation
of approximately 5,000 acres of improved pasture. This existing
use represents about 15 inches of irrigation water applied to
the pasture per year.
4. The withdrawal proposed by the applicant herein
might affect the foregoing named existing legal uses of water,
but, as provided above, the applicant will own or otherwise
control all portions of the tract, including those subject to
the existing agricultural use described above, prior to the
initiation of its consumptive use. Upon commencement of the
withdrawals by the applicant, the withdrawal by the "existing
users" is to be reduced and ultimately terminated in accordance
with the terms of the written agreement (dated April 12, 1977)
between the applicant and said "existing users" on file with the
District. <-
5. The applicant proposes to withdraw the water in.
the following manner:
a. When the applicant achieves ownership or
control of the subject tract, comprising some 14,719 acres of
land in Hardee County, Florida, the maximum authorized withdrawal
therefrom shall be no greater than 16.981.920 gallons of-water
per day on an annual average basis and no greater than 33.850.500
gallons per day on a maximum daily withdrawal basis. These
maximum withdrawal rates include those amounts which could
otherwise be withdrawn by the above named "existing users" under
their existing use permits. By aBrccmcnt between the applicant
and said "cxistinB users", it is contemplated that as the
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applicant's withdi.^al rate increases, the wx..idrawal rate of
the "existing users" will decrease as required to insure that
maximum levels specified herein are not exceeded. The applicant
will be responsible for coordinating the termination of existing
uses as the new uses are phased in.
b. During the first three (3) years following
commencement of mining operations, the total withdrawal for
phosphate mining and beneficiation purposes is to be from the
Floridan Aquifer by means of six production wells. Thereafter,
commencing with the fourth year of mining operations, the
applicant proposes to divert water from Brushy Creek, a tributary
of the Peace River, to a surface water storage basin to be
constructed by applicant on its lands, and hereinafter referred to
as the Brushy Creek Storage Basin. The applicant proposes to maxi-
mize the quantity of water diverted to the storage basin by divert-
ing such amounts as may be required to fill, or attempt to fill,
the basin to capacity, while simultaneously maintaining minimum
flows in Brushy Creek, downstream from the point of diversion.
The applicant has submitted an application for a "Work of the
District" Permit (16J-1.051, F.A.C.) for the proposed weir struc-
ture and the proposed diversion of water. (Application No."76-326)
e. The applicant proposes that the subsequent
withdrawal of water from the Brushy Creek Storage Basin will not
exceed 5,860,000 gallons per day on an average annual basis or
12,942,720 gallons per day on a maximum daily basis. However,
subject to the foregoing maximum limitations, the applicant pro-
poses to maximize the use of this available surface water-by
according its withdrawals from the storage basin such priority
over its withdrawals of ground water as is consistent with good
water management practices in order to minimize the impact of
applicant's proposed operations upon the ground water resources
of the tract and area. In any event, the combined withdrawal
from the Brushy Creek Storage Basin and the six production wells
is not to exceed the total average annual withdrawal authorized
herein of 16,981,920 gallons per day or the maximum daily with-
drawal authorized herein of 33,850,500 gallons per day.
d. The applicant further proposes to maintain
monthly minimum rates for flow for Brushy Creek downstrcnm along
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Brushy Creek fro. the point of diversion to the 5n.hy Creek
Storage Basin. The monthly minimum rates of flow shall be
computed on an average monthly basis. The applicant is to
continuously monitor the flows on Brushy Creek and has proposed
that the Governing Board of the Southwest Florida Water
Management District retain authority in the requested permit to
increase or otherwise modify the proposed monthly minimum rates
of flow where deemed appropriate by the Governing Board in order
'to protect fish and wildlife, promote the public health and
safety, or otherwise safeguard the public interest.
e. The applicant has acknowledged that its
.nine pit dewatering operations within approximately 450 feet
of its property boundary could cause the water table under
lands not owned, leased or otherwise controlled by the applicant
to be lowered more than three (3) feet. The applicant proposes
to obtain the written consent from all persons owning, leasing,
• or otherwise controlling lands within 450 feet of any proposed
pit dewatering project prior to the excavation and devatering of
the pit.
f . The applicant propose! to install ana
struct such monitorins facilities in the vicinity o£ its
the conditions of the water resource, * the area, a.
by the staff of the district and as specified in the consumptive
Me permit attached to this Order. .
6 The applicant ha. conducted extensive aquifer
tests on the propert, in ouestion for the purpose of predicts
the effects of the proposed withdrawals upon the ""drolos"
.y.te. and upon e,istin6 lesal users of water. The data coUe ed
Lin, these tests has been submitted to the Distr.ct or r v
applicant vichdraus the »ater in the ,u.ntity and in the.^nncr
specified above. '
. The proposed withdrawal "HI "Ct cause the
Uvel of the potenclo-ric surface to be lowered below -,
existing rcsulator, level estahll=hed b, the Southwest Florida
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Water Management District.
b. The proposed withdrawal will not significantly
induce saltwater intrusion.
c. The proposed withdrawal will not cause the
water table to be lowered so that the lake stages or vegetation
will be adversely and significantly affected on lands other than
those owned, leased or otherwise legally controlled by the
applicant.
d. The proposed withdrawal of water from Brushy
Creek will reduce the rate of flow by more than 57. at the time
and point of withdrawal. The Board finds that such withdrawal
ia consistent with the public interest by making efficient use
of available surface water sources, while requiring the applicant
to maintain the monthly minimum rates of flow specified herein.
e. The proposed withdrawal will not cause the
level of the potentiometric surface under lands not owned,
leased or otherwise controlled by the applicant to be lowered
more than five (5) feet.
«
f. The proposed withdrawal will not cause the
level of the water table under lands not owned, leased or
otherwise controlled by the applicant to be lowered more than
three (3) feet. However, when mine pit dewatering occurs within
approximately 450 feet of the property boundary, the water table
under lands not owned-,- leased, or otherwise controlled by the
applicant could be lowered more than three (3) feet. The Board
finds that this potential adverse impact is consistent with the
public interest provided written consent and permission is
obtained from the adjacent property owners prior to cornsencemenc
of the pit dewatering projects.
g. The proposed withdrawal will not cause the
level of the surface of water in any lake or other impoundment
to be lowered more than one foot unless the lake or impoundment
is wholly owned, leased or otherwise controlled by the applicant.
h. The proposed withdrawal will not cause the
potcntiomotric surface to be lowered below sea level.
1. The proposed withdrawals for mining and
bcncficiation operations will consumptively use about 817. of
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the withdrawal authorized by this Order.
j. The proposed consumptive use of 14,084,640
gallons- of water per day from 14,719 acres of land owned,
leased or otherwise to be controlled by the applicant is equi-
valent to a withdrawal at the rate of 349,269 gallons per year
per acre, which is 47. less than the average water crop throughout
the District.
k. There are insufficient monitoring facilities
in the vicinity of the applicant's lands to give early indica-
tion of any changes in the conditions of the water resources in
the area. The Board finds that it is appropriate to require
installation of flow-metering devices and installation or
construction of other monitoring facilities as described in the
consumptive use permit attached in Exhibit "1".
1. The proposed weir structure within and the
diversion of water from Brushy Creek will:
(1) 'Not place fill material, or any non-water
use related structure within the mean annual floodplain of a
lake or other impoundment, or of a stream or other water course;
(2) Not cause significant adverse effects
on lands not owned, leased,- or otherwise controlled by the
applicant: by drainage or inundation;
(3) Restrict or alter the rate of flow of a
stream or other watercourse within the floodplain of a twenty-
five (25) year flood;
(4) Not extend beyond a line of encroach-
ment established by the Board;
(5) Cause an increase or decrease in the
rate of flow of a stream or other watercourse by 57, or more;
(6) Not cause an increase in the peak rate
.•
of flow or total volume of storm runoff by 10% or more from
lands owned, leased or otherwise controlled by the applicant.
m. The Board finds that the proposed diversion
from Brushy Creek is not inconsistent with the public interest
because it permits the applicant to make efficient use of
available surface water, thus minimizing the effect of its mining
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and bencficiation opcracions on the ground water resources of
the area. Maintenance of minimum monthly flows downstream
from the diversion will minimize the impact of the diversion
and permit the public interest to be safeguarded.
n. The applicant has advised the District
Staff and this Board that it will need additional authority- from
the District in the future to withdraw additional limited
quantities of water from relatively shallow wells for purposes
of obtaining "sealing water" for use in its mining operations.
In accordance with the foregoing, and in consideration
of applicable laws and regulations, the Board makes the following
CONCLUSIONS OF LAW:
1. The applicant has established that the intended
consumptive use, as described herein,
a. Is a reasonable, beneficial use;
b. Is consistent with the public interest; and
c. Will not interfere with any legal use of
water existing at the time of application.
2. The applicant has shown good cause why the
Board should grant exception to the provisions of Section
16J-2.11(4)(c), Florida Administrative Code, in connection with
pit dewatering operations within approximately 450 feet of the
applicant's property boundary. The effect of such pit dewatering
operation upon the water table of adjacent lands is temporary and,
if not objectionable to the adjacent property owner, consistent
with the public interest.
3. The applicant has shown good cause why the Soard
may grant an exception to the provisions of Section 16J-2.11(4)(a),
Florida Administrative Code, in connection with the diversion of
water from Brushy Creek. Although the withdrawal will exceed 57.
of the rate of flow at the time and point of withdrawal, the
Board finds that such withdrawal is consistent with the public
interest provided the minimum monthly rates of flow are maintained
downstream from the point of diversion.
4. The proposed weir structure within and diversion
of water from Brushy Creek is:
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(0) a reasonable and beneficial activity; and
(b) not inconsistent with the public interest.
5. The applicant has shown good cause for this
Board to grant exceptions to the provisions of Sections 16J-
! 06(4) CO and 16J-1.06<4) (e) . Florida Administrative Code. The
proposed weir structure and diversion of water from Brushy CreeK
i. not inconsistent with the public interest provided the
monthly rates of flow are maintained downstream from the
point of diversion.
6. The intended consumptive use is in compliance
with the requirements of Chapter "373. Florida Statutes, and
Chapter 16 J, Florida Administrative Code.
7 In the event the applicant needs additional
authority from the District to withdraw additional limited
quantities of water fro. relatively shallow wells for purposes
of obtaining "sealing water" for use in its mining operations.
applicant must obtain a separate, supplemental consumptive use
permit for such withdrawal, pursuant to Chapter 16J-2. Florida
Administrative Code, before commencing such withdrawal. Modi-
fication of this Order, or tha permit authorized hereunder. need
not occur for this purpose.
WHEREFORE, UPON CONSIDERATION, it is
ORDERED
1 That the Executive Director of the Southwest
Florida Water Management District or a duly delegated member
of his staff be, and he is hereby, authorized and directed
to issue a consumptive use permit pursuant to the above
named applicant in substantially the form and subject to the
terms and conditions, set forth in Exhibit "1" attached
hereto; and
2 That th. Executive Director of the Southvest
norida Water Kana0e.ent District or a duly deleted »e»ber
„£ hi, staff be. and he is hereby, authored and directed to
!.,„, a "work of the District" per.it. pursuant to
Section l.J-1.051. Florida A*d.l«.«l« Code, to the above
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named applicant In substantially the form and subject to the
terms and conditions set forth in Exhibit "2", attached
hereto.
SOUTHWEST FLORIDA WATER
MANAGEMENT DISTRICT
DATE:
ATTEST:
ASST. SECRETARY. N. iBROOKS JOHNS
SEAL
By:
-V_J
DERRILL S. McATEER,
CHAIRMAN
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Appendix E
Cultural and Archeological
Consultations
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at ji>tctt£
STATE OF FLORIDA
THE CAPITOL
TALLAHASSEE 32304
(904) 488-3680
GEORGE FIRESTONE
SECRETARY OP STATE February II, 1981 in reply refer to:
Mr. Louis Tesar
Historic Sites Specialist
(904) 487-2333
Mr. Robert B. Howard
Chief, EIS Preparation Section
United States Environmental Protection Agency
Region Four
345 Courtland Street
Atlanta, Georgia 30308
Re: 4SA-EIS
Cultural Resource Assessment Review Request
"3.5.3 Historic and Archaeological Resource"
from Draft EIS, Mississippi Chemical Corporation (MCC)
Hardee County Phosphate Mine
Dear Mr. Howard:
In accordance with the procedures contained in 36 C.F.R.,
Part 800 ("Procedures for the Protection of Historic and
Cultural Properties"), we have reviewed the above referenced
project for possible impact to archaeological and historical
sites or properties listed, or eligible for listing, in the
National Register of Historic Places. The authorities for
these procedures are the National Historic Preservation Act
of 1966 (Public Law 89-665) as amended by P.L. 91-243, P.L.
93-54, P.L. 94-422, P.L. 94-458, and P.L. 96-515 and Presiden-
tial Executive Order 11593 ("Protection and Enhancement of the
Cultural Environment").
We have reviewed the above document and the information con-
tained in the Florida Master SiLe File. We concur with the
evaluation of the cultural resources presented in that document.
None of the three 20th century sites is historically signifi-
cant, and three of the four aboriginal sites are so severely dis-
turbed and eroded by 20th century land clearing and agricultural
activities that they fail to satisfy the criteria for significance
used in determining eligibility for listing on the National Register
— Historic Places. Neither preservation nor salvageexcavationor
historic documentation is recommended for any of the aiove sites.
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Mr. Robert B. Howard
February 11, 1981
Page Two
On the other hand, aboriginal site #1, which is recorded in
the Florida Master Site File as site 8Hr5 and located in the NW*
of the SEk of the SWk of Sec. 30, T34S-R24E, is potentially signifi-
cant as it represents one of the northernmost sites of the Okeechobee
Basin peoples. Since the upper levels of the site have been dis-
turbed through land clearance activities some of the categories of
data contained within the site have been lost. However, subsurface
testing revealed that "...large portions (of this site) are still
intact" (Draft EIS, p. 19-6). In view of this information and the
site's significance as one of the few Okeechobee Basin type sites
recorded in this area, it is deemed potentially eligible for listing
on the National Register of Historic Places. Therefore, archaeolog-
ical salvage excavation is recommended to record the data contained
within this site. In view of the extensive alteration of the surroun-
ding environment, site preservation is not recommended.
If you have any questions about our comments, please do not
hesitate to contact this office.
On behalf of the Secretary of State, George Firestone, and
the staff of the Bureau of Historic Sites and Properties, I would
like to thank you for your interest and cooperation in preserving
Florida's historic resources.
Sin
ely ,
George'W. Percy
Deputy State Historic
Preservation Officer
GWP:Teh
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United States Department of the Interior
HERITAGE CONSERVATION AND RECREATION SERVICE
WASHINGTON. D.C. 20243
IN REPLY REFER TO:
Mr. Robert B. Howard
Chief, EIS Preparation Section
Environmental Protection Agency
345 Courtland Street
Atlanta, Georgia 30365
Dear Mr. Howard:
Thank you for your letter requesting a determination of eligibility for inclusion in
the National Register pursuant to Executive Order 11593 or the National Historic
Preservation Act of 1966, as amended. Our determination appears on the enclosed
material.
As you understand, your request for our professional judgment constitutes a part
of the Federal planning process. We urge that this information be integrated into
the National Environmental Policy Act analysis in order to bring about the best
possible program decisions. This determination does not serve in any manner as a
veto to uses of property, with or without Federal participation or assistance. Anv
decision on the property in question and the responsibility for program planning
concerning such properties lie with the agency or block grant recipient after the
Advisory Council on Historic Preservation has had an opportunity to comment.
We are pleased to be of assistance in the consideration of historic resources in the
planning process.
Sincere)^ yours,
Jerry L. Rogers
Acting Keeper of the
National Register
Enclosure
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11593
EC
DETERMINATION OF EUGIBIU1Y NOTIFICATION
National Register of Historic Places
Heritage Conservation and Recreation Service
Nam* of property: Aboriginal Site #1
Location: Hardee County State: FL
Request submitted by: EpA/R0bert B. Howard
Date received: 3_30_81 Additional information received: -vLfc-
Opinion of the State Historic Preservation Officer:
S3 Eligible QNot Eligible CD No Response
Comments: "Site #1 is potentially significant"
The Secretary of the Interior has determined that this property is:
G3Eligible Applicable criteria: D QNot Eligible
Comments: This site contains substantial intact subplowzone cultural deposits and is
significant for its potential to yield important information concerning Belle Glade
phase lifeways outside the Okeechobee Basin core area in late prehistoric times.
D Documentation insufficient
(Please see accompanying sheet explaining additional materials required)
of the National Register
FHR 8-265 2/79
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Appendix F
Section 7 Endangered Species Act
Consultation
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United States Department of the Interior
FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE
15 NORTH LAURA STREET
JACKSONVILLE, FLORIDA 32202
May 13, 1981
Mr. Robert B. Howard
Chief, EIS Preparation Section
Environmental Protection Agency
345 Courtland Street
Atlanta, Georgia 30365
Log No. 4-1-80-013
Dear Mr. Howard:
This responds to your letter of March 31 requesting consultation pursuant
to Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act on Mississippi Chemical
Corporation's plans to mine phosphate in Hardee County, Florida and its
potential impact on threatened and endangered species.
Mississippi Chemical Corporation plans to develop a phosphate mine and
beneficiation plant on approximately 23 square miles (14,850 acres)
which it presently owns or controls, located 10 miles west of Wauchula
in west central Hardee County. About 8,000 acres on this site have
economically mineable reserves of phosphate ore. Construction is planned
to commence in mid-1983 and to be completed in about two years. Mining
will cover a 32-year period, with an average annual production rate of
3 million tons of phosphate rock.
The Federally listed threatened and endangered species that were identified
as possibly occurring within the area of influence of this project were:
bald eagle, red-cockaded woodpecker, Arctic peregrine falcon, American
alligator, and eastern indigo snake.
After reviewing the information in the Technical Support Document II and
a April 20 letter from Dames and Moore, it is our Biological Opinion
that the proposed mining operation is not likely to jeopardize the
continued existence of the eastern indigo snake. In addition we concur
with your determinations that the red-cockaded woodpecker, bald eagle,
Arctic peregrine falcon, and American alligator would not be adversely
affected by the proposed operation.
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Insofar as the eastern indigo snake is concerned, every effort should be
taken to avoid injuring or killing this species. If an eastern indigo
snake is encountered during the construction or mining operations, the
animal should be collected. After the animal is safely removed from the
area, Mr. Don Wood, Endangered Species Coordinator, Florida Game and
Fresh Water Fish Commission, 620 South Meridian Street, Tallahassee,
Florida 32304; telephone (904) 488-1960 should be contacted immediately.
The technique for handling and keeping this species until the Florida
Game and Fresh Water Fish Commission arrives is to place the snake in a
cloth sack, for example a pillow case. It is important to keep the
animal out of the sun, and we recommend that you place it in an air-
conditioned building. We suggest that people working in the mine area
be informed of the possible presence of these snakes, and that they are
protected by both Federal and state laws. The snakes should not be
harmed or harassed, but should be captured and the proper people notified.
An administrative record of this consultation is on file in this office.
This completes consultation under Section 7 of the Endangered Species
Act. If there are any modifications made in the project or if additional
information becomes available relating to threatened or endangered
species, reinitiation of consultation may be necessary. This Biological
Opinion is intended to assist Environmental Protection Agency in meeting
its responsibilities under Section 7.
Sincerely yours,
Donald . Hankla
Area Manager
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