United States Region 4 EPA 904/9-81-072
Environmental Protection 345 Courtland Street NE May 1981
Agency Atlanta, Ga. 30365
Environmental Draft
Impact Statement
Farmland Industries, Inc.
Phosphate Mine
Hardee County, Florida
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DRAFT
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENT
for
Proposed Issuance of a New Source National
Pollutant Discharge Elimination System Permit
to
Farmland Industries, Incorporated
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
Farmland Industries, Inc. has proposed an open pit phosphate
mine and benef iciation plant on a 7810-acre site in west
central Hardee County, Florida. Mining and processing will
involve 5280 acres, all of which will be reclaimed, and will
produce 2 million tons of phosphate rock per year for 20
years. The EIS examines alternatives, impacts and mitigative
measures related to air, geology, radiation, groundwater,
surface water, ecology and other natural and cultural systems.
Comments will be received until July 28, 1981.
Comments or inquiries should be directed to:
A. Jean Tolman, EIS Project Officer
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Region IV
345 Courtland Street, N.E.
Atlanta, Georgia 30365
(404) 881-7458
approved by:
JZ. HE f
Rebecca W. Hanmer
Regional Administrator
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Summary Sheet
for
Environmental Impact Statement
Farmland Industries, Inc.
Phosphate Mine
(X) Draft
( ) Final
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Region IV
345 Courtland Street, N.E.
Atlanta, Georgia 30365
1. Type of Action; Administrative (X) Legislative ( )
2. Description of Action;
Farmland Industries, Inc. is proposing to construct and operate a
phosphate mine and beneficiation plant in Hardee County, Florida. The
EPA Region IV Administrator has declared the proposed facilities to be a
new source as defined in Section 306 of the Federal Clean Water Act.
In compliance with its responsibility under the National Environ-
mental Policy Act (NEPA) of 1969, EPA Region IV has determined that the
issuance of a new source National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System
(NPDES) permit to the proposed mining and beneficiation facility would
constitute a major Federal action significantly affecting the quality of
the human environment. Therefore this Environmental Impact Statement
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has been prepared in accordance with the requirements of NEPA and EPA
regulations at 40 CFR Part 6.
Farmland's proposed mine operation is planned to produce 2 million
tons per year of wet phosphoric rock over the 20-year life of the mine.
Approximately 4951 acres of the 7800-acre site would be mined, with an
additional 329 to be occupied by other facilities such as the bene-
ficiation plant. During the life of the mine, all of the rock mined
from the tract will be shipped to existing fertilizer plants for con-
version to finished fertilizer, with approximately 50 percent of the
tonnage going to Farmland's existing phosphate fertilizer manufacturing
facility at Green Bay, Florida. Farmland currently and historically has
bought the phosphate rock processed at their Green Bay plant from other
producers. Farmland states that the proposed mine is needed to sta-
bilize their phosphate rock supply.
The initial phase of the proposed activity will be land clearing
and open burning in advance of the mine. The cleared acreage in front
of the mining operation will be about 20 acres. The mining operation
will employ a single large dragline supplemented, beginning in year 10,
by a second, smaller dragline. The mined matrix will be slurried and
transported via pipeline to the beneficiation plant for washing to
separate pebble product, clay, and fines, and for flotation to recover
additional product. The wet rock will be stored temporarily at the
plant. Farmland plans to construct an 8000-foot long railroad spur,
linking the plant with the Seaboard Coast Line Railroad, and rail ship
the wet rock product to receiving phosphate fertilizer plants.
The proposed waste sand and clay disposal plan will employ the
sand-clay mix technique. Limited conventional disposal will be required
to store these wastes until the sand-clay mix procedure becomes oper-
ational and to periodically store waste generated in excess of the sand-
clay mix requirements and capabilities. Conventional Settling Area I
(495 acres) will be constructed on unmined land and utilized during the
first 5 years of mining, after which time the stored clays will be
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removed (and used for sand-clay mix) and the ground beneath will be
mined. Settling Area II (583 acres) will be used as early as year 2 of
operation and remain active for the life of the mine. Sand-clay mixing
can begin in the fourth year of mine operation and continue for the mine
life, ultimately creating 3915 acres of sand-clay mix areas, or 79
percent of the total mined area.
The proposed mining operation requires water for matrix transport
and processing equivalent to a flow rate of 50,000 gpm (72 mgd). The
proposed water management plan incorporates extensive recycling of
process water to minimize water consumption. The mine water recircu-
lation system, the clay settling areas, active sand-clay mix areas, and
return water ditches act as a water clarification system, returning
decanted water to the clear water pond. Clear water is then recircu-
lated to the mine and to the beneficiation plant. Recycle water is
reused many times before being lost to the waste or phosphate products
as entrained water. Actual freshwater use will be about 8.83 mgd, most
(6.02 mgd) of which is required for the amine flotation section of the
beneficiation plant. The additional amount will be required for make-up
to replace water losses within the recirculating system.
The proposed reclamation plan is based on the use of a waste sand-
clay mix material as backfill over most of the mined area (3915 of the
5169 acres mined). The proposed plan is designed to return the site to
a land form and use compatible with the surrounding area, which is
primarily agricultural. The reclaimed site will consist primarily of
improved pasture, restored marshes, lakes, and areas (totalling 2530
acres) to be preserved by Farmland (e.g., Oak Creek Islands). Following
reclamation, the acreage of forested uplands, freshwater marsh, improved
pasture, and lakes will increase, while the acreages of freshwater
swamp, pine flatwoods-palmetto range, and citrus will decrease.
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3. Alternatives Cons idered;
Farmland has developed an integrated plan for the mining and
processing of phosphate rock at their Hardee County mine. This plan is
comprised of a number of individual components linked so as to provide a
total project capable of meeting Farmland's goals. The identifiable
components included in the Farmland project are as follows:
• Mining
• Matrix Transport
• Matrix Processing
• Waste Sand and Clay Disposal
• Process Water Source
• Water Management Plan
• Reclamation
Various methods (i.e., alternatives) are available to satisfy the
objectives of each of these components. These are summarized below:
Component
Mining
Matrix Transport
Matrix Processing
Waste Sand and
Clay Disposal
Process Water
Sources
Obj ective
Remove overburden and
deliver matrix to a
transport system.
Transport matrix from the
mine to the beneficiation
plant.
Process the matrix to
separate the phosphate
rock product from the
waste sand and clay.
Dispose of the waste sand
and clay generated by
matrix processing.
Provide a continuous
source of freshwater
(about 8.83 mgd) for use
in matrix processing and
as make-up for losses to
the recirculating system.
Alternatives Considered
Dragline Mining*, Dredge
Mining, and Bucketwheel
Mining.
Slurry Matrix Transport*,
Conveyor Transport, and
Truck Transport.
Conventional Matrix Pro-
cessing* and Dry Matrix
Processing.
Sand-Clay Mixing* and
Conventional Sand and
Clay Disposal.
Groundwater Withdrawal*
and Surface Water
Impoundment.
*Farmlandfs proposed action.
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Component Objective Alternatives Considered
Water Management Provide a means to reduce Discharge to Surface
the amount of water in Waters* and Use of
the recirculating system. Connector Wells.
Reclamation Return the mined site to Farmland's Reclamation
useful productivity. Plan, Conventional Recla-
mation, and Natural Mine
Cut Reclamation
A brief description of each of the alternatives listed above as
well as the no action alternative is presented in the following paragraphs.
Mining
Dragline Mining. Farmland proposes to use a single large (45-cu yd)
dragline to move overburden and mine matrix during the first 9 years of
operation. In year 10 a second smaller (20-cu yd) dragline would be
added to supplement the larger unit. Other than the fact that Farmland
proposes to initially mine with a single large dragline (rather than two
smaller units), the proposed mining method is as conventionally prac-
ticed in the Florida phosphate industry.
Dredge Mining. The three most common dredge types are the bucket line,
cutter head, and bucketwheel. Each is basically a large, barge-mounted
machine consisting of a continuous digging apparatus mounted on a long
boom extending below the water surface. The bucket line's chain carried
buckets continuously transfer material up to the barge, while the other
two units pump material from beneath the water to the surface via a
suction pipe.
Bucketwheel Mining. Bucketwheel excavators are large continuous mining
machines which excavate material with a series of buckets mounted on the
periphery rotating wheel and drop it onto a conveyor belt system.
Overburden would be routed for disposal in previously mined areas, while
matrix would be sent to the beneficiation plant.
*Farmland's proposed action.
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Matrix Transport
Slurry Matrix Transport. Slurry matrix transport is used at most
existing Florida phosphate mines. Matrix would be placed into a slurry
pit and mixed with recycled water (17,720 gpm) from high pressure
nozzles, breaking down the clay and sand matrix into a 26 percent solids
slurry which would then be transported via pipeline to the beneficiation
plant by a series of large pumps operating at about 19,400 gpm.
Conveyor Matrix Transport. Conveyor matrix transport would require that
matrix be placed onto a belt conveyor at the mine for transport to the
beneficiation plant. In order to minimize the number of transfer points
and still maintain mobility of the conveyor sections, such a conveyor
belt system would most likely include belt sections of up to 2000 feet
in length.
Truck Matrix Transport. A dragline would load the trucks, which would
then transport the matrix via haul roads to the beneficiation plant. At
the plant matrix would be dumped and/or washed out of the trucks.
Matrix Processing
Conventional Matrix Processing. Conventional matrix processing involves
the separation of phosphate rock from waste sand and clay using a series
of wet-process operations. These consist of washing, feed preparation,
and flotation. This is the only method of matrix processing in oper-
ation in the Florida phosphate industry today.
Dry Matrix Processing. The general concept of dry processing involves
the production of usable phosphate product from matrix—directly fol-
lowing its excavation and drying. The method utilized would probably
involve both air separation and electrostatic separation. There are no
such plants in operation in the Florida phosphate industry today.
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Waste Sand and Clay Disposal
Sand-Clay Mixing. Sand-clay mixing involves the recombining of the
waste sand and clay removed from the phosphate matrix during separate
processing steps in areas surrounded by dikes 17-20 feet high. No
specific technique has been proposed by Farmland for creating such a
mixture, but the supply of sand and clay in the matrix should be suffi-
cient to allow development of a technique. Farmland has committed to do
this once operation begins.
*
Conventional Sand and Clay Disposal. Conventional methods for disposing
of the waste sand and clay removed from the phosphate matrix during
processing involve their impoundment in separate areas surrounded by
dikes as high as 41 feet above-grade. More than half of the area to be
mined would be covered with waste clays impounded to a height of 35 feet
above-grade and surrounded by such dikes.
Process Water Sources
Groundwater Withdrawal. The major source of freshwater used at the mine
would be from onsite deep (1400 foot) wells. The mine field would
likely consist of a primary production well, standby production well,
and a potable water well. The production well would have a capabity of
6200 gpm, with the average daily pumping rate being about 5075 gpm.
Surface Water Impoundment. The most readily available freshwater source
which could be utilized by Farmland would be surface water from nearby
creeks and rivers. Since the creeks on the site typically exhibit low
flows, or even intermittent flows, the quantity available for use as
process water could be best provided by impoundment within a reservoir
system constructed on the site.
Water Management Plan
Discharge to Surface Waters. Seasonal changes in rainfall and evap-
oration rates will affect the active water volume of the recirculating
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water system. When heavy rainfall occurs, the system may become over-
loaded, forcing a discharge to an existing natural drainage (either
Hickory Creek or Oak Creek) through a control structure.
Use of Connector Wells. Connector wells would serve to reduce the
amount of water in the recirculating system by dewatering the Surficial
Aquifer (a source of water inflow to the system) in the vicinity of the
active mine pit. This water would be pumped downward through wells into
a deeper aquifer and serve as a source of recharge to that aquifer.
Reclamation Plan
Farmland's Proposed Reclamation Plan. Farmland's proposed reclamation
plan consists of five general types of restoration. These are generally
described as follows:
Sand-Clay Mix Landfills - 3915 acres
Crust Development on Clay Settling Areas - 583 acres
Sand Tailings Landfills - 104 acres
Land and Lakes Areas -567 acres
Disturbed Natural Ground - 111 acres
Reclamation will proceed over the life of the mine, with the final areas
being mined reclaimed in the 24th year after operation begins.
Conventional Reclamation. Conventional reclamation is reclamation
associated with the separate disposal of sand and clay wastes (i.e.,
conventional sand and clay waste disposal). Reclamation would consist
of allowing a crust to form over the more than 2500 acres of impounded
clays and seeding these areas with forage species, and creating ex-
tensive land and lakes areas in those areas of the site not covered with
impounded clays. The revegetation of these areas would likely consist
of forage species plantings on most land areas, with forest tree plant-
ings along the edges of the lakes.
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Natural Mine Cut Reclamation. Natural mine cut reclamation would amount
to leaving mined-out areas in windrows, with sand-clay mix deposited
between windrows. Mined areas would be allowed to revegetate naturally,
as has been the case in many of the older central Florida mines. The
resultant use of the mined-out land would be largely for fish and
wildlife habitat, with some pastureland.
The No Action Alternative
The no action alternative by EPA would be the denial of an NPDES
permit for the proposed project. The effect of permit denial would be
to precipitate one of three possible reactions on the part of Farmland:
(1) termination of their proposed project; (2) indefinite postponement
of the proposed project; or (3) restructuring of the project to achieve
zero discharge, for which no NPDES permit would be required.
Termination of the planned project would allow the existing en-
vironment to remain undisturbed and the gradual socioeconomic and
environmental trends would continue as at present.
If EPA were to deny Farmland's NPDES permit application, the
project might be postponed for an indefinite period of time and then
successfully pursued by either Farmland or another mining company. This
might be expected to occur when high grade phosphate reserves are
depleted and the resource retained on the Farmland site becomes ex-
tremely valuable strategically as well as economically.
If EPA denies the NPDES permit, Farmland could still execute a
mining project provided the project could be performed with zero dis-
charge to surface waters. Under zero discharge conditions, neither an
NPDES permit nor an Environmental Impact Statement would be required.
4. Mitigation Measures:
Mitigation measures which would serve to reduce the impacts which
the project will have on the surrounding environment were developed from
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inputs received from the preparers of the various sections of the
Environmental Impact Statement. These are described below:
• Pile overburden such that the volume available for below
ground waste disposal is maximized.
• Use "toe spoiling" to reduce the radioactivity of reclaimed
surface soils.
• Cover reclaimed sand-clay mix disposal areas with about 6
inches of low activity soil to reduce gamma radiation levels.
• Cover reclaimed clay disposal areas with 10-15 ft of over-
burden to reduce gamma radiation levels.
• Use treated mine water, rather than Surficial Aquifer water,
for pump seal lubrication.
• Divert Hickory Creek around the mining area to its preserved
lower portion, rather than to Troublesome Creek.
• Restrict mining along the preserved lower portion of Hickory
Creek to only one side of the stream channel at a given time.
• Monitor the Surficial Aquifer in the vicinity of sand-clay mix
disposal areas.
• Increase the acreage to be reclaimed as forest habitat and
provide corridors for wildlife movement between reclaimed and
preserved areas by planting additional areas with trees.
• Establish a 7- to 10-acre littoral zone at the downstream end
of the lake system proposed for reclamation of the Hickory
Creek channel.
• Increase the acreage to be reclaimed as marsh by 116 acres.
• Implement a program to reduce impacts on the indigo snake, a
threatened species which occurs on the site.
5. EPA's Preferred Alternatives and Recommended Mitigating Measures:
The alternatives evaluation for the Farmland project is presented
in Section 2.0 of the EIS. Based on analyses described in this section,
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EPA's preferred alternative for each of the project components is as
follows:
Project Component EPA Preferred Alternative
Mining Dragline Mining
Matrix Transport Slurry Matrix Transport
Matrix Processing Conventional Matrix Processing
Waste Sand and Clay Disposal Sand-Clay Mixing
Process Water Source Groundwater Withdrawal
Water Management Plan Discharge to Surface Waters
Reclamation Farmland's Proposed Reclamation Plan
As indicated above, EPA's preferred alternatives for the various
project components are in agreement with Farmland's proposed action.
However, implementation of most of the mitigation measures described in
the previous section is proposed as a condition of the NPDES permit for
the project. The measures excluded as conditions of the permit are the
capping of waste disposal areas with low activity overburden and the use
of treated mine water to meet pump seal requirements. While environ-
mental impacts might be reduced by capping of waste disposal areas, this
is considered to be impractical on the scale of the proposed mine—both
for economic and technical reasons.
The withdrawal of Surficial Aquifer water to supply pump seal
requirements represents only 6 percent of the minimum groundwater
withdrawal for the proposed project. In addition, water will be with-
drawn, in most instances, from areas which will eventually be mined—
totally destroying the Surficial Aquifer itself, at least in the short
term. Therefore, the economic costs and technical difficulties which
treatment of mine water would pose to Farmland are not considered
justified.
All other mitigation measures listed in Section 4 are proposed as
conditions of the NPDES permit for the Farmland project.
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6. Summary of the Environmental Impacts of the Alternatives:
A summary of the environmental impacts of the alternatives is
provided in Table 1 so that the impacts of Farmland's proposed action,
EPA's preferred alternatives and mitigating measures, and the no action
alternative can be evaluated comparatively.
7. EPA's Proposed Action
Pursuant to provisions of the Clean Water Act of 1977, EPA proposes
to issue a NPDES permit to Farmland for their proposed Hardee County,
Florida phosphate mine. The proposed permit will impose as permit
conditions the performance of all mitigating measures identified in
Farmland's proposed action as well as those additional mitigating
measures developed by EPA which were recommended for implementation.
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Table 1. COMPARISON OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS OF THE ALTERNATIVES.
Discipline
Air Quality,
Meteorology,
and Noise
EPA'S Preferred Alternatives
Farmland's Proposed Action and Mitigating Measures
Minor increases in fugitive Same as Farmland's proposed
dust emissions and emissions action.
from internal combustion
engines; minor emissions
of volatile reagents; in-
creased noise levels in
the vicinity of operating
The No Action Alternative
Termination
No change in
meteorology &
noise levels
present; possi-
ble air quality
changes from
other sources.
Postponement
Same as Farm-
land's proposed
action.
Achieve Zero Discharge
Same as Farmland ' s
proposed action.
equipment.
Geology and Disruptions of the surface
Soils soils and overburden strata
over the mine site; deple-
tion of 40 million tons of
phosphate rock resources;
creation of a reclaimed
soil material which should
be superior to existing
soils.
Radiation Disruption of the natural
distribution of radioactive
material within the over-
burden and phosphate matrix;
increased radiation levels
from reclaimed surfaces.
Same as Farmland's proposed
action, except that the
height of the remaining
waste clay impoundment could
be reduced by about 4 feet
by piling overburden to
greater heights.
Same as Farmland's proposed
action, except that reclaimed
surface soils would contain
less radioactive material
because of toe spoiling.
No change in
geology; no
change in site
soils (i.e.,
increased pro-
ductivity) ;
preservation of
40 million tons
of phosphate
rock reserves.
No change in
radiation
characteristics
of the site.
Possible in-
creased phos-
phate recovery
and more effec-
tive sand-clay
mix disposal.
reclamation,
and wetlands
restoration.
Same as Farm-
land's proposed
action.
Increased dike heights,
and water storage capa-
city; probable infringe-
ment on preserved areas;
less desirable recla-
mation plan.
Probable increase in
area covered with waste
clays — the reclaimed
material having the
highest radioactivity
levels.
Groundwater
Surface Water
Aquatic
Ecology
Terrestrial
Ecology
Socioeconomlcs
Withdrawal of groundwater
from the Floridan Aquifer at
an average rate of 8.83 mgd;
lowering of Surficial Aquifer
in the vicinity of active
mine pits; possible local
contamination of Surficial
Aquifer adjacent to sand-
clay mix disposal areas.
Disruption of surface water
flows from the mine site;
minor reduction in flows
following reclamation;
degradation of water
quality due to discharges
from the mine water system.
Destruction of aquatic habi-
tats on the mine site;
aquatic habitat modifica-
tions due to reduced sur-
face water flows and
addition of contaminants
to creeks flowing from
the site.
Destruction of terrestrial
habitats and loss of indi-
viduals of some species on
the mine site; creation of
modified habitats following
reclamation.
Generation of jobs with com-
paratively high incomes; ad
valorem and sales tax revenue
for Hardee County; severence
tax revenue for the state,
Land Reclamation Trust Fund,
and Florida Institute of
Phosphate Research; some
population influx to Hardee
County; increased demands
for housing, transportation,
fire protection, police,
and medical services.
Same as Farmland's proposed
action.
No change in Possible reduc- Same as Farmland's pro-
existing ground- tion in ground- posed action.
water quantity water withdrawals
and quality. because of more
effective de-
watering of waste
materials.
Same as Farmland's proposed
action, except that flow would
be maintained in lower Hickory
Creek, instead of increasing
flow in Troublesome Creek;
and there would be reduced
loss of baseflow to Hickory
Creek in years 12-13.
Same as Farmland's proposed
action, except that the impacts
on aquatic biota in Hickory
Creek will be lessened by the
continuation of flow through
its preserved lower portion.
Same as Farmland's proposed
action, except that the wild-
life habitat on the reclaimed
mine site will be more exten-
sive (both marsh and forest).
Same as Farmland's proposed
action.
No change in
surface water
quantity; sur-
face water
quality would
be dependent
upon future land
uses in the site
area.
No change in
existing
aquatic
ecology.
Same as Farm- Elimination of surface
land's proposed water quality impacts
action. resulting from discharge
from mine water system;
increased probability of
dike failure imparts.
Same as Farm- Elimination of habitat
land's proposed modification resulting
action. from discharge from mine
water system; increased
probability of dike
failure impacts.
No change in
existing
terrestrial
ecology.
Possibly more Probable creation of in-
Loss of jobs
which would be
generated by
the project;
loss of tax
revenue for
Hardee County
and the State;
less demand for
transportation,
housing, fire
protection,
police and medi-
cal services;
continuation of
phosphate rock
market uncer-
tainties for
Farmland and a
loss of their
investment.
effective
reclamation
and wetlands
restoration.
Continuation of
phosphate rock
market uncer-
tainties for
Farmland and
potential in-
creased project
costs; possible
improvement in
supply/demand
for housing in
Hardee County.
creased reclaimed land
areas (waste clays) of
limited use (e.g.,
pasture).
Same as Farmland's pro-
posed action.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Paee
1.0 PURPOSE AND NEED FOR ACTION 1-1
2.0 ALTERNATIVES INCLUDING THE PROPOSED ACTION 2-1
2.1 MINING 2-21
2.1.1 DRAGLINE MINING (FARMLAND'S PROPOSED ACTION) 2-22
2.1.1.1 General Description 2-22
2.1.1.2 Environmental Considerations 2-25
Environmental Advantages 2-25
Environmental Disadvantages 2-25
2.1.2 DREDGE MINING 2-26
2.1.2.1 General Description 2-26
2.1.2.2 Environmental Considerations 2-26
Environmental Advantages 2-26
Environmental Disadvantages 2-27
2.1.2.3 Technical Considerations 2-28
2.1.3 BUCKETWHEEL MINING 2-29
2.1.3.1 General Description 2-29
2.1.3.2 Environmental Considerations 2-30
Environmental Advantages 2-30
Environmental Disadvantages 2-30
2.1.3.3 Technical Considerations 2-30
2.1.4 SUMMARY COMPARISON - MINING 2-31
2.2 MATRIX TRANSPORT 2-31
2.2.1 SLURRY MATRIX TRANSPORT (FARMLAND'S PROPOSED ACTION) 2-32
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Table of Contents, Continued
Page
2.2.1.1 General Description 2-32
2.2.1.2 Environmental Considerations 2-34
Environmental Advantages 2-34
Environmental Disadvantages 2-34
2.2.2 CONVEYOR MATRIX TRANSPORT 2-34
2.2.2.1 General Description 2-34
2.2.2.2 Environmenta1 Considerations 2-34
Environmental Advantages 2-34
Environmental Disadvantages 2-35
2.2.2.3 Technical Considerations 2-35
2.2.3 TRUCK MATRIX TRANSPORT 2-36
2.2.3.1 General Description 2-36
2.2.3.2 Environmental Considerations 2-37
Environmental Advantages 2-37
Environmental Disadvantages 2-37
2.2.4 SUMMARY COMPARISON - MATRIX TRANSPORT 2-37
2.3 MATRIX PROCESSING 2-37
2.3.1 CONVENTIONAL MATRIX PROCESSING (FARMLAND'S
PROPOSED ACTION) 2-37
2.3.1.1 General Description 2-37
2.3.1.2 Environmental Considerations 2-43
Environmental Advantages 2-43
Environmental Disadvantages 2-43
2.3.2 DRY MATRIX PROCESSING 2-43
2.3.2.1 General Description 2-43
2.3.2.2 Environmental Considerations 2-44
Environmental Advantages 2-44
Environmental Disadvantages 2-44
2.3.2.3 Technical Considerations 2-44
2.3.4 SUMMARY COMPARISON - MATRIX PROCESSING 2-45
ii
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Table of Contents, Continued
Page
2.4 WASTE SAND AND CLAY DISPOSAL 2-45
2.4.1 SAND-CLAY MIXING (FARMLAND'S PROPOSED ACTION) 2-46
2.4.1.1 General Description 2-46
2.4.1.2 Environmental Considerations 2-53
Environmental Advantages 2-53
Environmental Disadvantages 2-55
2.4.2 CONVENTIONAL SAND AND CLAY DISPOSAL 2-55
2.4.2.1 General Description 2-56
2.4.2.2 Environmental Considerations 2-56
Environmental Advantages 2-56
Environmental Disadvantages 2-57
2.4.4 SUMMARY COMPARISON - WASTE DISPOSAL 2-57
2.5 PROCESS WATER SOURCES 2-57
2.5.1 GROUNDWATER WITHDRAWAL (FARMLAND'S PROPOSED ACTION) 2-58
2.5.1.1 General Description 2-58
Phase I 2-58
Phase II 2-59
Phase III 2-59
2.5.1.2 Environmental Considerations 2-59
Environmental Advantages 2-59
Environmental Disadvantages 2-59
2.5.2 SURFACE WATER IMPOUNDMENT 2-60
2.5.2.1 General Description 2-60
2.5.2.2 Environmental Considerations 2-60
Environmental Advantages 2-60
Environmental Disadvantages 2-61
2.5.3 SUMMARY COMPARISON - PROCESS WATER SOURCES 2-61
2.6 WATER MANAGEMENT PLAN 2-61
2.6.1 DISCHARGE INTO SURFACE WATERS (FARMLAND'S
PROPOSED ACTION) 2-62
iii
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Table of Contents, Continued
2.6.1.1 General Description 2-62
2.6.1.2 Environmental Considerations 2-63
Environmental Advantages 2-63
Environmental Disadvantages 2-63
2.6.2 USE OF CONNECTOR WELLS 2-64
2.6.2.1 General Description 2-64
2.6.2.2 Environmental Considerations 2-64
Environmental Advantages 2-64
Environmental Disadvantages 2-64
2.6.3 SUMMARY COMPARISON - WATER MANAGEMENT PLAN 2-65
2.7 RECLAMATION PLAN 2-65
2.7.1 FARMLAND'S PROPOSED RECLAMATION PLAN 2-65
2.7.1.1 General Description 2-65
2.7.1.1.1 Sand-Clay Mix Areas 2-66
2.7.1.1.2 Clay Setting Area 2-80
2.7.1.1.3 Sand Tailings Fill 2-80
2.7.1.1.4 Lake Areas 2-81
Clear Water Pool 2-81
Hickory Creek 2-81
Land and Lakes Area 2-85
2.7.1.1.5 Disturbed Natural Ground Area 2-88
2.7.1.2 Environmental Considerations 2-88
Environmental Advantages 2-88
Environmental Disadvantages 2-88
2.7.2 CONVENTIONAL RECLAMATION 2-89
2.7.2.1 General Description 2-89
2.7.2.2 Environmental Considerations - 2-89
Environmental Advantages 2-89
Environmental Disadvantages 2-89
2.7.3 NATURAL MINE CUT RECLAMATION 2-90
2.7.3.1 General Description 2-90
iv
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Table of Contents, Continued
2.7.3.2 Environmental Considerations 2-90
Environmental Advantages 2-90
Environmental Disadvantages 2-90
2.7.4 SUMMARY COMPARISON - RECLAMATION 2-90
2.9 MITIGATION MEASURES 2-91
2.8.1 GEOLOGY AND SOILS 2-91
2.8.2 RADIATION 2-91
2.8.3 HYDROLOGY 2-92
2.8.4 WATER QUALITY 2-93
2.8.5 TERRESTRIAL ECOLOGY 2-93
2.8.6 AQUATIC ECOLOGY 2-95
2.8.7 SOCIOECONOMICS 2-95
2.9 THE NO ACTION ALTERNATIVE 2-96
2.9.1 TERMINATION OF THE PROJECT 2-96
2.9.2 POSTPONEMENT OF THE PROJECT 2-96
2.9.3 ACHIEVING A ZERO DISCHARGE 2-99
2.10 EPA'S PREFERRED ALTERNATIVES. MITIGATING MEASURES,
AND RECOMMENDED ACTION 2-100
2.11 REFERENCES 2-102
3.0 THE AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES
OF THE ALTERNATIVES 3-1
3.1 AIR QUALITY, METEOROLOGY, AND NOISE 3-2
3.1.1 THE AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT 3-2
3.1.1.1 Meteorology 3-2
Temperature 3-3
Precipitation 3-4
Humidity and Fog 3-4
Wind Direction and Speed 3-5
3.1.1.2 Air Quality 3-5
3.1.1.3 Noise 3-7
3.1.2 ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES OF THE ALTERNATIVES 3-9
3.1.2.1 The No Action Alternative 3-9
3.1.2.2 The Action Alternatives, Including the
Proposed Action 3-9
3.1.2.2.1 Mining 3-9
Dragline Mining (Farmland's Proposed Action) 3-9
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Table of Contents, Continued
Page
Bucketwheel Mining 3-10
Dredge Mining 3-10
3.1.2.2.2 Matrix Transport 3-10
Slurry Transport (Farmland's Proposed Action) 3-10
Conveyor Transport 3-11
Truck Transport 3-11
3.1.2.2.3 Matrix Processing 3-11
Conventional Matrix Processing (Farmland's
Proposed Action) 3-11
Dry Matrix Processing 3-12
3.1.2.2.4 Reclamation 3-12
Farmland's Proposed Reclamation Plan 3-12
Conventional Reclamation 3-12
Natural Mine Cut Reclamation 3-13
3.2 GEOLOGY AND SOILS 3-13
3.2.1 THE AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT 3-13
3.2.1.1 Geology 3-13
3.2.1.2 Soils 3-14
3.2.1.2.1 Soil Types 3-14
3.2.1.2.2 Drainage and Permeability 3-18
3.2.1.2.3 Acidity 3-19
3.2.1.2.4 Agricultural Productivity 3-19
3.2.2 ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES OF THE ALTERNATIVES 3-20
3.2.2.1 The No Action Alternative 3-20
3.2.2.2 The Action Alternatives, Including the
Proposed Action 3-20
3.2.2.2.1 Mining 3-20
Dragline Mining (Farmland's Proposed Action) 3-20
Dredge Mining 3-21
Bucketwheel Mining 3-21
3.2.2.2.2 Waste Sand and Clay Disposal 3-21
Sand-Clay Mixing (Farmland's Proposed Action) 3-21
Sand-Clay Mixture 3-22
Clay 3-23
vi
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Table of Contents, Continued
Page
Sand 3-23
Conventional Sand and Clay Disposal 3-23
3.2.2.2.3 Reclamation 3-24
Farmland's Proposed Reclamation Plan 3-24
Conventional Reclamation Plan 3-25
Natural Mine Cut Reclamation 3-25
3.3 RADIATION 3-26
3.3.1 THE AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT 3-26
3.3.1.1 Uranium Equilibrium 3-27
3.3.1.2 Background Radiation 3-28
3.3.1.2.1 Air 3-28
3.3.1.2.2 Water 3-28
3.3.1.2.3 Structures 3-29
3.3.1.3 Subsurface Radioactivity 3-29
3.3.2 ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES OF THE ALTERNATIVES 3-33
3.3.2.1 The No Action Alternative 3-33
3.3.2.2 The Action Alternatives, Including the
Proposed Action 3~33
3.3.2.2.1 Mining 3-33
Dragline .Mining (Farmland's Proposed Action) 3-33
Dredge Mining 3-35
Bucketwheel Mining 3-35
3.3.2.2.2 Matrix Processing 3-35
Conventional Matrix Processing (Farmland's
Proposed Action) 3-35
Dry Matrix Processing 3-37
3.3.2.2.3 Sand and Clay Waste Disposal 3-38
Sand-Clay Mixing (Farmland's Proposed Action) 3-38
Conventional Sand and Clay Disposal 3-40
3.3.2.2.4 Reclamation 3-40
Farmland's Proposed Reclamation Plan 3-40
Conventional Reclamation 3-43
Natural Mine Cut Reclamation 3-43
vii
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Table of Contents, Continued
Page
3.4 GROUNDWATER 3-43
3.4.1 THE AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT 3-43
3.4.1.1 Groundwater Quantity 3-43
3.4.1.1.1 Surficial Aquifer 3-45
3.4.1.1.2 Secondary Artesian Aquifer 3-47
3.4.1.1.3 Floridan Aquifer 3-48
3.4.1.2 Groundwater Quality 3-52
3.4.1.2.1 Surficial Aquifer 3-52
3.4.1.2.2 Secondary Artesian Aquifer 3-52
3.4.1.2.3 Floridan Aquifer 3-55
3.4.2 ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES OF THE ALTERNATIVES 3-55
3.4.2.1 The No Action Alternative 3-55
3.4.2.2 The Action Alternatives, Including the
Proposed Action 3-56
3.4.2.2.1 Mining 3-56
Dragline Mining (Farmland's Proposed Action) 3-56
Dredge Mining 3-56
Bucketwheel Mining 3-57
3.4.2.2.2 Matrix Transport 3-57
Slurry Matrix Transport (Farmland's Proposed
Action) 3-57
Conveyor Matrix Transport 3-57
Truck Matrix Transport 3-58
3.4.2.2.3 Matrix Processing 3-58
Conventional Matrix Processing (Farmland's
Proposed Action) 3-58
Dry Matrix Processing 3-60
3.4.2.2.4 Process Water Sources 3-60
Groundwater Withdrawal (Farmland's Proposed
Action) 3-60
Surface Water Impoundment 3-60
3.4.2.2.5 Waste Sand and Clay Disposal 3-61
Sand-Clay Mixing (Farmland's Proposed Action) 3-61
Conventional Sand and Clay Disposal 3-62
3.4.2.2.6 Water Management Plan 3-64
viii
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Table of Contents, Continued
Discharge to Surface Waters (Farmland's
Proposed Action) 3-64
Connector Wells 3-64
3.4.2.2.7 Reclamation 3-64
Farmland's Proposed Reclamation Plan 3-64
Conventional Reclamation 3-65
Natural Mine Cut Reclamation 3-65
3.5 SURFACE WATER 3-66
3.5.1 THE AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT 3-66
3.5.1.1 Surface Water Quantity 3-66
3.5.1.2 Surface Water Quality 3-67
3.5.2 ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES OF THE ALTERNATIVES 3-71
3.5.2.1 The No Action Alternative 3-71
3.5.2.2 The Action Alternatives, Including the
Proposed Action 3-71
3.5.2.2.1 Mining 3-71
Dragline Mining (Farmland's Proposed Action) 3-71
Troublesome Creek 3-75
Hickory Creek 3-75
Oak Creek 3-76
Dredge Mining 3-77
Bucketwheel Mining 3-78
3.5.2.2.2 Matrix Transport 3-78
Slurry Matrix Transport (Farmland's Proposed
Action) 3-78
Conveyor Matrix Transport 3-78
Truck Matrix Transport 3-78
3.5.2.2.3 Matrix Processing 3-78
Conventional Matrix Processing (Farmland's
Proposed Action) 3-78
Dry Matrix Processing 3-79
3.5.2.2.4 Waste Sand and Clay Disposal 3-79
Sand-Clay Mixing (Farmland's Proposed Action) 3-79
xx
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Table of Contents, Continued
Page
Conventional Sand and Clay Disposal 3-81
3.5.2.2.5 Process Water Sources 3-82
Groundwater Withdrawal (Farmland's Proposed
Action) 3-82
Surface Water Impoundment 3-82
3.5.2.2.6 Water Management Plan 3-83
Discharge to Surface Waters (Farmland's
Proposed Action) 3-83
Connector Wells 3-88
3.5.2.2.7 Reclamation 3-88
Farmland's Proposed Reclamation Plan 3-88
Conventional Reclamation 3-90
Natural Mine Cut Reclamation 3-90
3.6 AQUATIC ECOLOGY 3-91
3.6.1 THE AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT 3-91
3.6.1.2 Aquatic Biota 3-91
3.6.1.2.1 Benthos 3-91
3.6.1.2.2 Fish • 3-92
3.6.1.3 Endangered and Threatened Species 3-92
3.6.2 ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES OF THE ALTERNATIVES 3-93
3.6.2.1 The No Action Alternative 3-93
3.6.2.2 The Action Alternatives, Including the
Proposed Action 3-93
3.6.2.2.1 Mining 3-93
Dragline Mining (Farmland's Proposed Action) 3-93
Destruction of Aquatic Habitats 3-93
Alteration of Stream Flow 3-94
Increased Turbidity 3-95
Dredge Mining 3-95
Bucketwheel Mining 3-95
3.6.2.2.2 Matrix Transport 3-96
Slurry Matrix Pumping (Farmland1s Proposed Action) 3-96
Conveyor Matrix Transport 3-96
Truck Matrix Transport 3-96
x
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Table of Contents, Continued
Page
3.6.2.2.3 Matrix Processing 3-96
Conventional Matrix Processing (The Proposed
Action) 3-96
Dry Matrix Processing 3-97
3.6.2.2.4 Waste Sand and Clay Disposal 3-97
Sand-Clay Mixing (Farmland's Proposed Action) 3-97
Conventional Sand and Clay Disposal 3-97
3.6.2.2.5 Process Water Sources 3-98
Groundwater Withdrawal (Farmland's Proposed
Action) 3-98
Surface Water Impoundment 3-98
3.6.2.2.6 Water Management Plan 3-98
Discharge to Surface Waters 3-98
Connector Wells 3-99
3.6.2.2.7 Reclamation 3-99
Farmland's Proposed Reclamation Plan 3-99
Conventional Reclamation 3-101
Natural Mine Cut Reclamation 3-101
3.7 TERRESTRIAL ECOLOGY 3-102
3.7.1 THE AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT 3-102
3.7.1.1 Vegetation Types 3-102
3.7.1.2 Principal Wildlife Habitats 3-102
3.7.1.2.1 Ruderal Habitat 3-104
3.7.1.2.2 Forest Habitat 3-104
3.7.1.2.3 Wooded Swamps Habitat 3-104
3.7.1.2.4 Freshwater Marsh Habitat 3-105
3.7.1.3 Game and Commercial Furbearing Species 3-105
3.7.1.4 Threatened and Endangered Species - Federal 3-105
3.7.1.4.1 Bald Eagle 3-106
3.7.1.4.2 Red-cockaded Woodpecker 3-108
3.7.1.4.3 American Alligator 3-108
3.7.1.4.4 Eastern Indigo Snake 3-108
3.7.1.4.5 Arctic Peregrine Falcon 3-109
3.7.1.5 Endangered and Threatened Species and
Species of Special Concern - State 3-109
3.7.1.5.1 Wood Stork 3-109
3.7.1.5.2 Florida Sandhill Crane 3-110
xi
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Table of Contents, Continued
3.7.1.5.3 Gopher Tortoise 3-110
3.7.1.5.A Florida Burrowing Owl 3-110
3.7.1.5.5 Little Blue Heron, Snowy Egret, and
Louisiana Heron 3-110
3.7.2 ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES OF THE ALTERNATIVES 3-111
3.7.2.1 The No Action Alternative 3-111
3.7.2.2 The Action Alternatives, Including the
Proposed Action 3-111
3.7.2.2.1 Mining 3-111
Dragline Mining (Farmland's Proposed Action) 3-111
Acreage Altered 3-112
Disruption of Wetlands 3-114
Impacts on Faunal Populations 3-117
Effects on Endangered or Threatened Species 3-119
Dredge Mining 3-122
Bucketwheel Mining ^ 3-122
3.7.2.2.2 Waste Sand and Clay Disposal 3-122
Sand-Clay Mixing (Farmland's Proposed Action) 3-122
Conventional Sand and Clay Disposal 3-123
3.7.2.2.3 Process Water Sources 3-124
Groundwater Withdrawal (Farmland's Proposed
Action) 3-124
Surface Water Impoundment 3-124
3.7.2.2.4 Reclamation 3-124
Farmland's Proposed Reclamation Plan 3-124
Conventional Reclamation 3-128
Natural Mine Cut Reclamation 3-128
3.8 SOCIOECONOMICS 3-128
3.8.1 THE AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT 3-128
3.8.1.1 Population, Income, and Employment 3-128
3.8.1.2 Land Use 3-129
3.8.1.3 Transportation 3-130
3.8.1.4 Community Services and Facilities 3-131
3.8.1.5 Public Finance 3-132
Xll
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Table of Contents, Continued
3.8.1.6 Cultural Resources 3-133
3.8.1.7 Visual Resources 3-134
3.8.1.7.1 Physical Environment Description 3-134
3.8.1.7.2 Human Perception Analysis 3-135
3.8.2 ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES OF THE ALTERNATIVES 3-137
3.8.2.1 The No Action Alternative 3-137
3.8.2.2 The Action Alternatives, Including the
Proposed Action 3-138
3.8.2.2.1 Population, Income, and Employment 3-138
3.8.2.2.2 Land Use and Value 3-139
3.8.2.2.3 Transportation 3-140
3.8.2.2.4 Community Facilities 3-140
3.8.2.2.5 Public Finance 3-141
3.8.2.2.6 Cultural Resources 3-142
3.8.2.2.7 Visual Resources 3-143
Construction 3-143
Operation 3-144
Post-Reclamation and Abandonment 3-145
Summary 3-145
3.9 REFERENCES 3-146
4.0 SHORT-TERM USE VERSUS LONG-TERM PRODUCTIVITY 4-1
4.1 THE PHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT 4-1
4.1.1 AIR 4-1
4.1.1.1 Short-Term 4-1
4.1.1.2 Long-Term 4-2
4.1.2 WATER 4-2
4.1.2.1 Short-Term 4-2
4.1.2.2 Long-Term 4-3
4.1.3 ECOLOGY 4-3
4.1.3.1 Short-Term 4-3
4.1.3.2 Long-Term 4-4
4.1.4 SOCIOECONOMICS 4-4
4.1.4.1 Short-Term 4-4
4.1.4.2 Long-Term 4-5
xiii
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Table of Contents, Continued
Pag€
5.0 IRREVERSIBLE OR IRRETRIEVABLE COMMITMENTS OF RESOURCES 5-1
5.1 DEPLETION OF MINERAL RESOURCES 5-1
5.2 LANDFORM CHANGES 5-3
5.3 COMMITMENT OF WATER RESOURCES 5-3
5.4 FISH AND WILDLIFE HABITAT 5-4
5.5 AESTHETICS 5-6
5.6 HISTORICAL AND ARCHAEOLOGICAL VALUES 5-6
5.7 REFERENCES 5-6
6.0 COMPARISON OF PROPOSED ACTIVITY WITH AREAWIDE EIS
RECOMMENDATIONS 6-1
6.1 MINING AND BENEFICIATION REQUIREMENTS 6-1
6.1.1 ELIMINATE THE ROCK-DRYING PROCESSING AT BENE-
FICIATION PLANTS AND TRANSPORT WET ROCK TO
CHEMICAL PLANTS 6-1
6.1.2 MEET STATE OF FLORIDA AND LOCAL EFFLUENT LIMITATIONS
FOR ANY DISCHARGES 6-3
6.1.3 ELIMINATE CONVENTIONAL ABOVE GROUND SLIME-DISPOSAL
AREAS 6-3
6.1.4 MEET SOUTHWEST FLORIDA CONSUMPTIVE USE PERMIT
REQUIREMENTS 6-4
6.1.5 PROVIDE STORAGE THAT ALLOWS RECIRCULATION OF WATER
RECOVERED FROM SLIMES 6-4
6.1.6 USE CONNECTOR WELLS 6-4
6.1.7 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
AND DEVELOP A RECLAMATION PLAN THAT CONSIDERS
RADIATION OF SPOIL MATERIAL AND REDUCES AS MUCH AS
POSSIBLE THE AMOUNT OF RADIONUCLIDE-BEARING MATERIAL
LEFT WITHIN 3-4 FEET OF THE SURFACE 6-4
6.1.8 MEET COUNTY AND STATE RECLAMATION REQUIREMENTS AND
INCLUDE AN INVENTORY OF TYPES OF WILDLIFE HABITAT
IN THE AREA TO BE MINED AND THE AREA IMMEDIATELY
SURROUNDING IT 6-5
6.1.9 THE MINING AND RECLAMATION PLAN WILL TAKE INTO ACCOUNT
THE PROTECTION AND RESTORATION OF HABITAT SO SELECTED
SPECIES OF WILDLIFE WILL BE ADEQUATELY PROTECTED
DURING MINING AND RECLAMATION 6-6
6.1.10 PROTECT OR RESTORE WETLANDS UNDER THE JURISDICTION
OF THE CORPS OF ENGINEERS, SECTION 404, FEDERAL
WATER POLLUTION CONTROL ACT, PURSUANT TO 404(b)
GUIDELINES (40CFR230) 6-7
xiv
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Table of Contents, Continued
6.1.11 MAKE EFFORTS TO PRESERVE ARCHAEOLOGICAL 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 SHOULD BE SUBMITTED TO THAT STATE
AGENCY FOR EXAMINATION AND COMMENT 6-9
6.2 REFERENCES 6-9
7.0 COORDINATION 7-1
7.1 DRAFT ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENT COORDINATION LIST 7-1
Federal Agencies 7-1
Members of Congress 7-1
State 7-2
Local and Regional 7-2
Interest Groups 7-2
7.2 PUBLIC PARTICIPATION AND SCOPING 7-2
7.3 CONSULTATION WITH THE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF INTERIOR 7-3
7.4 CONSULTATION WITH THE STATE HISTORIC PRESERVATION
OFFICER 7-4
7.5 COORDINATION WITH THE U.S. ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS 7-4
7.6 REFERENCES 7-5
8.0 LIST OF PREPARERS 8-1
9.0 INDEX 9-1
APPENDIX A - DRAFT NPDES PERMIT FOR THE FARMLAND
INDUSTRIES, INC. HARDEE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROJECT
xv
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LIST OF TABLES
Table Page
2-1 RECLAMATION SEQUENCE AND ACREAGE FOR SAND-CLAY
LANDFILLS ON THE FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC. MINE SITE 2-78
2-2 COMPARISON OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS OF THE
ALTERNATIVES 2-103
3-1 MEASURED SULFUR DIOXIDE, TOTAL SUSPENDED PARTICULATE,
AND PARTICULATE FLUORIDE GROUND-LEVEL CONCENTRATIONS
AT THE FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC. MINE SITE 3-8
3-2 PARTICLE SIZE DISTRIBUTION FOR NATURAL SOIL ON THE
FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC. SITE AND SOIL MATRIX
PROCESSING WASTE MATERIALS 3-15
3-3 CHEMICAL DATA FOR NATURAL SOIL ON THE FARMLAND
INDUSTRIES, INC. SITE AND MATRIX PROCESSING WASTE 3-16
3-4 RADIUM-226 ANALYSES OF CORE SAMPLES FROM FARMLAND
INDUSTRIES, INC. HARDEE COUNTY PROPERTY 3-30
3-5 RADIOMETRIC ANALYSES OF CORE SAMPLES FROM THE
FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC. MINE PROPERTY 3-31
3-6 RADIUM CONTENT OF COMPOSITE WASTES FOR FARMLAND
RADIATION STUDY 3-34
3-7 PREDICTED GAMMA RADIATION CHARACTERISTICS OF
RECLAIMED LAND ON THE FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC. MINE
SITE 3-39
3-8 PREDICTED RADON FLUX FROM THE RECLAIMED LAND ON THE
FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC. MINE SITE 3-39
3-9 SUMMARY OF RADON-222 FLUX CHARACTERISTICS OF VARIOUS
LAND TYPES IN POLK COUNTY, FLORIDA 3-41
3-10 STATISTICAL SUMMARY OF GROUNDWATER QUALITY DATA FOR
SELECTED WELLS IN THE SURFICIAL AQUIFER ON THE
FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC. MINE SITE 3-53
xvx
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List of Tables, Continued
Table Page
3-11 ANALYSES OF GROUNDWATER FROM THE SECONDARY ARTESIAN
AND FLORIDAN AQUIFERS ON THE FARMLAND INDUSTRIES,
INC. MINE SITE 3-54
3-12 COMPARISON OF THE WATER QUALITY OF SURFICIAL AQUIFER
WATER AND SURFACE WATER FROM THE FARMLAND INDUSTRIES,
INC. MINE SITE TO MEASURED VALUES IN CLAY SETTLING
AREA DISCHARGES 3-63
3-13 AVERAGE AND FLOOD FLOWS OF STREAMS AT SELECTED SITES
ON THE FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC. MINE SITE 3-68
3-14 STATISTICAL SUMMARY OF SURFACE WATER QUALITY DATA
FROM SELECTED STATIONS ON THE FARMLAND INDUSTRIES,
INC. MINE PROPERTY; JUNE 1977 - JUNE 1978 3-70
3-15 DRAINAGE AREAS ON FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC. SITE AND
DISCHARGE FROM PROPERTY BOUNDARY 3-73
3-16 STATE AND FEDERAL WATER QUALITY CRITERIA AND
STANDARDS 3-86
3-17 EFFLUENT CONCENTRATION OF SELECTED POLLUTANTS FROM
PHOSPHATE ROCK PROCESSING OPERATIONS IN FLORIDA 3-87
8-1 NAMES, QUALIFICATIONS, AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF
PERSONS WHO WERE PRIMARILY RESPONSIBLE FOR PREPARING
THE FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC. DRAFT ENVIRONMENTAL
IMPACT STATEMENT 8-2
xvii
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LIST OF FIGURES
Figure Page
1-1 FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC. MINE SITE, HARDEE COUNTY,
FLORIDA 1-3
2-1 FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC. DRAGLINE MINING AND MATRIX
SLURRY TRANSPORT SYSTEM 2-2
2-2 FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC. DRAGLINE MINING SEQUENCE
FOR 20-YEAR MINING PLAN 2-4
2-3 EXISTING LAND USE OF PRESERVED AREAS ON THE MINE SITE 2-5
2-4 SCHEMATIC FLOW DIAGRAM FOR SLURRIED MATRIX TRANSPORT 2-6
2-5 TYPICAL MATRIX PIPELINE CROSSING OF STREAM CHANNEL 2-7
2-6 FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC. WASTE SAND AND CLAY DISPOSAL
MAP 2-9
2-7 FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC. MINING-WASTE DISPOSAL
RECIRCULATION SYSTEM 2-11
2-8 WELL LOCATIONS WITHIN THE FARMLAND SITE; HYDRO-
GEOLOGICAL CROSS-SECTION 2-12
2-9 MINE WATER BALANCE DURING THE INITIAL YEARS OF
MINING 2-13
2-10 MASTER DRAINAGE PLAN FOR THE FARMLAND INDUSTRIES,
INC. MINE SITE 2-14
2-11 FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC. PRIMARY AND SECONDARY
EFFLUENT DISCHARGE POINTS 2-15
2-12 POST RECLAMATION LAND USE ON THE FARMLAND INDUSTRIES,
INC. MINE SITE 2-17
2-13 EXISTING AND POST-RECLAMATION LAND USE ON THE MINE
SITE 2-18
xvnz
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List of Figures, Continued
Figure Page
2-14 POST RECLAMATION TOPOGRAPHY ON THE FARMLAND INDUSTRIES,
MINE SITE 2-19
2-15 LOCATION OF THE PROPOSED PIPELINE/DRAGLINE CORRIDOR
THROUGH THE PRESERVED PORTION OF OAK CREEK ISLANDS
ON THE FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC. MINE SITE 2-23
2-16 SLURRY AND CONVEYOR MATRIX TRANSPORT FLOW DIAGRAMS 2-33
2-17 LOCATION OF BENEFICIATION PLANT FACILITIES ON THE
FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC. MINE SITE 2-38
2-18 VEGETATION TYPES IN THE VICINITY OF THE PROPOSED
FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC. PLANT SITE 2-39
2-19 FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC. WASHER PROCESS FLOWSHEET 2-40
2-20 FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC. FEED PREPARATION AND
FLOTATION FLOWSHEET 2-42
2-21 RETENTION DAM DESIGN FOR CLAY IMPOUNDMENT AREAS ON
UNMINED GROUND 2-48
2-22 RETENTION DAM DESIGN FOR CLAY IMPOUNDMENTS ON
MINED GROUND 2-49
2-23 RETENTION DAM DESIGN FOR SAND-CLAY MIX LANDFILLS
IN MINED-OUT AREAS 2-51
2-24 FILLING OF SAND-CLAY LANDFILL 2-52
2-25 MATRIX COMPOSITION AND WASTE VOLUME RELATIONSHIPS 2-54
2-26 EXTENT OF MINE RECLAMATION - YEAR 4 2-67
2-27 EXTENT OF RECLAMATION - YEAR 8 2-68
2-28 EXTENT OF RECLAMATION - YEAR 12 2-69
2-29 EXTENT OF RECLAMATION - YEAR 16 2-70
2-30 EXTENT OF RECLAMATION - YEAR 20 2-71
2-31 EXTENT OF RECLAMATION - COMPLETE 2-72
2-32 CROSS-SECTIONAL VIEW OF SAND-CLAY LANDFILL SHOWING
SURFACE SOIL CHARACTER AND SUBSIDENCE OF LAND FILL
BETWEEN SPOIL PILES 2-73
xix
-------
List of Figures, Continued
Figure Page
2-33 EXPERIMENTAL PLANTING PATTERN IN SAND-CLAY MIX AREA
1 OF THE FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC. MINE SITE 2-74
2-34 STRIP REFORESTATION AT A TYPICAL SAND-CLAY LANDFILL,
MADE AT RIGHT ANGLES TO THE SPOILING PATTERN 2-75
2-35 REFORESTATION OF SPECIAL SAND-CLAY MIX AREAS 1 AND 2 2-77
2-36 CROSS-SECTIONAL VIEW OF ADJOINING SAND-CLAY MIX
RECLAMATION AREAS 2-79
2-37 AREAS OF WETLAND RESTORATION ON THE FARMLAND
INDUSTRIES, INC. MINE SITE 2-82
2-38 PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS OF THE LAKE SYSTEM TO BE
CREATED BY RECLAMATION IN SECTIONS 2 AND 11, T35S,
R24E OF THE FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC. MINE SITE 2-83
2-39 PHYSICAL DESIGN CONCEPTS FOR FINGER LAKE RECLAMATION
AREA IN SECTION 2, T35S, R24E, OF THE FARMLAND
INDUSTRIES, INC. MINE SITE 2-84
2-40 PHYSICAL DESIGN CONCEPTS FOR THE OPEN LAKE RECLAMATION
AREA IN SECTION 11, T35S, R24E, OF THE FARMLAND
INDUSTRIES, INC. MINE SITE 2-86
2-41 PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS OF THE LARGE LAND AND LAKE
AREA IN SECTIONS 34 AND 35, T34S, R24E, OF THE
FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC. MINE SITE 2-87
3-1 ANNUAL WINDROSE FOR TAMPA, FLORIDA; 1960-64 3-6
3-2 SOIL TYPES ON THE FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC. MINE SITE 3-17
3-3 RADIUM (in pCi/g) IN CURRENT CENTRAL FLORIDA PRODUCTS
AND WASTES VS. EXPECTED VALUES FOR THE FARMLAND
INDUSTRIES, INC. PROJECT 3-36
3-4 HYDROGEOLOGICAL CROSS SECTION OF THE FARMLAND
INDUSTRIES, INC. MINE SITE 3-44
3-5 HYDROGRAPH OF SURFICIAL AQUIFER WELL CP-1 ON THE
FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC. MINE SITE; JUNE 1977 -
AUGUST 1978 3-46
xx
-------
List of Figures, Continued
Figure
3-6 HYDROGRAPH OF SECONDARY ARTESIAN AQUIFER WELL FIS-3
ON THE FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC. MINE SITE;
SEPTEMBER 1977 - AUGUST 1978 3-49
3-7 HYDROGRAPH OF FLORIDAN AQUIFER WELL FIF-2 ON THE
FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC. MINE SITE; SEPTEMBER 1977 -
AUGUST 1978 3-50
3-8 FLORIDAN AQUIFER DRAWDOWN PROJECTION FOR THE
PRODUCTION WELL LOCATED AT THE FARMLAND INDUSTRIES,
INC. PLANT SITE; PUMPING RATE 6200 GPM 3-59
3-9 POST-RECLAMATION DRAINAGE PATTERN THROUGH SAND-CLAY
MIX AREAS ON THE FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC. MINE SITE 3-89
3-10 VEGETATION TYPES ON THE FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC.
MINE SITE 3-103
3-11 LOCATIONS OF RARE AND ENDANGERED FAUNA SIGHTINGS ON
THE FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC. MINE SITE 3-107
3-12 WETLAND CATEGORIZATION; FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC.
MINE SITE 3-115
3-13 CONCEPTUAL VIEW OF MARSH RESTORATION IN A SAND-CLAY
MIX DISPOSAL AREA 3-127
3-14 1976 AND 1978 ANNUAL AVERAGE DAILY TWO-WAY TRAFFIC
(ADT) LEVELS ON ROADS IN THE FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC.
SITE AREA 3-136
xxi
-------
1.0
PURPOSE AND NEED FOR ACTION
Farmland Industries, Inc. (Farmland) is a regional manufacturing,
distribution, and marketing cooperative which provides a variety of
services to some 1/2 million midwestern U.S. farm and ranch family
member-owners. One of the primary services of the cooperative is the
manufacture and distribution of fertilizers to its member-owners.
Farmland currently manufactures phosphate fertilizers in an exis-
ting facility at Green Bay, Florida. The rock raw material for this
facility has historically and is currently being bought from other
mining companies in central Florida. During this history of the Green
Bay facility, there have been times when Farmland has been unable to
secure sufficient raw materials to operate this plant at its capacity
and has therefore been unable to supply the necessary fertilizer to its
member-owners. This has been particularly true during periods when
heavy export demand has drained off both rock and fertilizer supplies
from the domestic market. In order to prevent this situation from
recurring, Farmland has proposed to construct and operate a 2 million
ton per year wet phosphate rock mine in Hardee County, Florida (Figure
1-1). The development, located near Ona, will result in the disturbance
of about 5000 acres of the 7800-acre tract which comprises Farmland's
Hardee County reserve. During the 20+ year life of the mine, all of the
rock mined from the tract will be shipped to existing fertilizer plants
for conversion to finished fertilizer, with approximately 50 percent of
the tonnage going to Farmland's existing Green Bay facility.
1-1
-------
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has determined that
Farmland's proposed phosphate mining operations will constitute a "new
source" discharge facility under the Federal Clean Water Act of 1977
(FCWA), as amended. As a new source, the proposed Farmland operations
will be subject to the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination Systems
(NPDES) new source effluent limitations and permit requirements.
In accordance with the FCWA, the issuance of a new source NPDES
permit by the U.S. EPA will represent a major federal action and require
compliance with the provisions of the National Environmental Policy Act
of 1969 (NEPA). The U.S. EPA Regional Administrator determined that the
issuance of the NPDES permit for the proposed Farmland mine would
significantly affect the quality of the human environment. NEPA re-
quires that all federal agencies prepare detailed environmental impact
statements (EIS's) on proposed major federal actions significantly
affecting the quality of the human environment. Therefore, the U.S. EPA
is required by the NEPA process to prepare a detailed site-specific EIS
on the phosphate mine proposed by Farmland in Hardee County, Florida.
1-2
-------
HILLSBOROUGH
PROPERTY
DE SOTO
FIGURE 1-1. FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC. SITE LOCATION MAP.
SOURCE: FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC., HARDEE COUNTY MASTER PLAN, JUNE 1979
0 10 20
SCALE IN MILES
-------
2.0
ALTERNATIVES INCLUDING THE PROPOSED ACTION
Farmland has developed an integrated plan for the mining and
processing of phosphate rock at their Hardee County mine. This plan,
hereafter referred to as Farmland's proposed action, is comprised of a
number of individual project components linked so as to provide a total
project capable of meeting Farmland's goals. The identifiable com-
ponents included in the Farmland project are as follows:
• Mining
• Matrix Transport
• Matrix Processing
• Waste Sand and Clay Disposal
• Process Water Source
• Water Management Plan
• Reclamation
Farmland proposes to mine their Hardee County, Florida phosphate
deposit using two large "walking" draglines (Figure 2-1). One will have
a bucket capacity of 45 cu yd; the other, 20 cu yd. These draglines
will be capable of removing about 40 feet of overburden and phosphate
matrix from the site at a rate of about 250 acres a year, eventually
resulting in the mining of 4951 acres of the 7810-acre site over a
planned 20-year mine life and the recovery of 39 million short tons of
phosphate rock. Over this period, about 174 million tons of overburden
will also have been handled. In order to accomplish this, the draglines
will frequently have to move considerable distances over land between
2-1
-------
OLD SLURRY PIT
FIGURE 2-1. FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC. DRAGLINE MINING
AND MATRIX SLURRY TRANSPORTATION SYSTEM.
0 2,000 4,000
SCALE IN FEET
SOURCE: FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC., HARDEE COUNT/ MASTER PLAN, JUNE 1979
2-2
-------
sequential mining blocks (Figure 2-2). This will necessitate that
creeks on the site be crossed on several occasions, and that a travel
corridor through otherwise undisturbed land (i.e., Oak Creek Islands) be
maintained.
Farmland's proposed mine plan (Figure 2-2) has been developed
through the use of a computer model which utilizes the results of
prospect drilling and mining and processing equipment specifications to
determine the optimum mining schedule. A primary objective of the plan
is to achieve both a uniform production rate and product quality from an
ore body which is considered to be highly variable. Also part of
Farmland's mine plan is the preservation of substantial areas of the
site (Figure 2-3). These areas, amounting to about 2530 acres, include
the extensive floodplain forest along the Peace River and the mixed
forest/wetland area within the Oak Creek drainage basin known as Oak
Creek Islands. Also preserved are smaller forested areas along portions
of Hickory Creek, Troublesome Creek, and a northern tributary to Oak
Creek.
After excavation, the matrix (about 1500 short tons per hour) will
be slurried with water (about 18,000 gallons per minuts [gpm]) and
pumped via a pipeline to the beneficiation plant (Figure 2-4). The
matrix slurry will travel through the pipe at a density of about 26
percent solids, at a rate of about 19,400 gpm. The route of the pipe-
line to the plant will change as the mining operation does, requiring
that several streams be crossed during the life of the mine. Double-
walled pipe and catchment basins will be used at such locations (Figure
2-5) .
At the beneficiation plant, matrix will be first routed to the
washer (an inclined elevated structure) where water will be used with a
system of screens and attritioning devices to break down the ore and to
size the components into phosphate pebble, waste clays, and feed (sand-
sized particles). The screen-separated pebble, if acceptable in quality,
2-3
-------
FIGURE 2-2.
PROPERTY iOUNDARY
£fZ.~3 OUT PARCEL (NOT FARMLAND PROPERTY)
UNMINEA1LE AREA - ENVIRONMENTAL Sf NSITIVrTV
FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC. DRAGLINE MINING UNMINEA.LEAREA-MINEPLANN,NC
SEQUENCE FOR 20-YEAR MINING PLAN.
<7 YEAR MINED - DRAGLINE I
;«i> YEAR MINED - DRAGLINE I
0 2,000 4.000
SCALE IN FEET
SOURCE: FARMLAND INDUSTRIES. INC.. HARDEE COUNTY MASTER PLAN, JUNE 1979
2-4
-------
----- PROPERTY BOUNDARY
rC.^J OUT PARCEL (NOT FARMLAND PROPERTY)
FRESHWATER SWAMP
FIGURE 2-3. EXISTING LAND USE OF PRESERVED AREAS
ON THE MINE SITE.
FRESHWATER MARSH
!• • ^ PINE FLATWOODS PALMETTO RANGE
E2SJ UPLAND FOREST
I I IMPROVED PASTURE
Kvyvl CITRUS
^m OTHER AGRICULTURE
0 2,000 4,000
SCALE IN FEET
SOURCE: FARMLAND INDUSTRIES. INC.. HARDEE COUNTY MASTER PLAN. JUNE 1979
2-5
-------
MATRIX
1
1495 STPH (SOLIDS)
1570 GPM (WATER)
(HIGH PRESSURE)
(LOW PRESSURE)
to
15,620 GPM
WATER FROM CLARIFICATION
& RECIRCULATION SYSTEM
PIPELINE (APPROXIMATELY 2 MILES)
-MATRIX SLURRY AT 26% SOLIDS (WT. %)
19.400 GPM*
WASHER PLANT
•NOTE: APPROXIMATELY 85 GPM OF SEAL WATER WILL ALSO BE
ADDED TO EACH PUMP WHICH WILL GENERALLY BE
ADDITIVE TO THE ABOVE FLOW. THIS WATER WILL COME
FROM THE HIGH PRESSURE WATER LINE, FROM ADJACENT
RECIRCULATION WATER CANALS, OR FROM SHALLOW
SURFACE WATER WELLS
FIGURE 2-4. SCHEMATIC FLOW DIAGRAM FOR SLURRIED MATRIX TRANSPORT,
SOURCE: J.J. CAPE, 1979.
-------
MATRIX SLURRY PIPE
EXTERIOR PIPE TO DIVERT ANY LEAKAGE TO SPILLAGE BASINS
EXISTING FLOOD PLAIN
EMERGENCY SPILLAGE BASIN
A. PRESSURE SENSING DEVICE TO SIGNAL IF LEAKAGE DEVELOPS
B. LEVEL SENSING DEVICES TO SIGNAL THAT SLURRY IS FLOWING
INTO SPILLAGE BASINS
C. SHUTOFF VALVES TO SEGREGATE MAIN LINE FROM STREAM
CROSSING SECTION AS REQUIRED
FIGURE 2-5. TYPICAL MATRIX PIPELINE CROSSING OF STREAM CHANNEL.
SOURCE: J.J. CAPE, 1979.
EMERGENCY SPILLAGE BASIN
-------
will be sent to product storage. The waste clays will be removed by
hydrocyclones, concentrated by mechanical thickeners, and pumped to the
clay settling areas or to mined-out cuts for sand-clay mix waste dis-
posal. The feed areas will be treated with reagents and subjected to a
series of flotation steps to separate the phosphatic particles from the
silica sand waste (tailings). The reagents used in this process include
fatty acid, fuel oil, sodium hydroxide, sulfuric acid, amine, and kero-
sene. The flotation will be accomplished by two steps. In the first
step, or rough flotation, fatty acids and fuel oil will be added to the
matrix. The underflow from this step will be transported to the sand
tailings disposal area or to the mined-out cuts for sand-clay mix waste
disposal, and the overflow will be cleansed. The second step, or amine
flotation, will remove additional sand waste and route it to disposal.
The phosphatic particles, or "concentrate" product, will then be de-
watered and transferred to an outdoor storage area (along with the
screen-separated pebble) to await shipment. Drainage from the storage
area will be collected and returned to the plant process water flow.
As indicated above, the beneficiation plant will produce both waste
sand and clay. For each ton of product, 1.08 tons (dry) of clay and
2.82 tons (dry) of sand will be produced. In terms of volume, these
amounts represent 0.004 acre-feet of clay at 17 percent solids and 0.001
acre-feet of sand at about 80 percent solids. The primary methods of
waste disposal proposed for the mine will be sand-clay mix deposited in
mined cuts (Figure 2-6). However, in the initial years the waste
disposal plan requires impoundment of the waste clays in separate
settling areas, with a portion of the waste sand to be used as dike
building material and backfill. The initial clay settling area (Area
I—495 acres) will provide for waste disposal prior to the availability
of mined-out areas. Although the ore characteristics are favorable to
sand-clay disposal, Farmland has determined that subsequent settling
ponds (IIA and IIB—583 acres) will also be necessary to maintain the
sand-clay mix disposal areas near existing grade. The method by which
Farmland will implement sand-clay mixing as a waste disposal technique
2-8
-------
PROPERTY BOUNDARY
OUT PARCEL (NOT FARMLAND PROPERTY)
l:NMIM AHM AREA
ENVIRONMENTAL SENSITIVITY
!• 1 UNMINEABLK AREA
MINK PLANNING
i/CK) SAND CLAY MIX
AREA DESIGNATION
• ixi SPECIAL SAND CLAY MIX AREA
Dieted Cliy Fill AUowin| Foi Final Selling
Neai Or%iiul Kkvilkm.
VC • SPECIAL SAND CLAY MIX AREA
DtedfCd (liy Fill Alkiwin| Fot I mil
Seciliiq To Be Appmximiuly 4 F«l
Abov« Orifiiul Elevition.
FIGURE 2-6. FARMLAND INDUSTRIE,, INC. WASTE
SAND AND CLAY DISPOSAL MAP.
SOURCE: FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC., HARDEE COUNTY MASTER PLAN, JUNE 1979
2.00< 4,000
SCALE IN FEET
2-9
-------
has not yet been established. An acceptable method of mixing the two
waste components will continue to be studied by Farmland prior to start-
up and then tested operationally. Farmland's intent is to implement
full scale sand-clay mixing at the earliest date feasible. A total of
3915 acres of the mined site are scheduled for filling with sand-clay
mix.
Water requirements for the Farmland project will be met from
groundwater withdrawals and surface water catchment within the recircu-
lating water systems. Farmland's surface water catchment facilities
(e.g., from rainfall and seepage) include only those structures that are
part of the mining, waste disposal, and water clarification and re-
circulation system (Figure 2-7), thus the major source of fresh water
will be from deep (1400 ft) wells into the Floridan Aquifer (Figure
2-8). The withdrawal from these wells should be about 8.83 mgd under
annual average conditions. Most (6.03 mgd) of this will be used in the
amine flotation process, which requires high quality water. The re-
maining 2.80 mgd withdrawn will be required as make-up for losses which
occur through entrainment, seepage, evaporation, and shipment (Figure
2-9). The actual process water flow will be much higher (about 72 mgd)
than the pumping rate, but most (about 90 percent) of this will be
recycled water. During normal operations, the losses which occur in the
system will equal the inputs so that a discharge will not be required
(Figure 2-9). However, when heavy rainfalls occur (e.g., in June-
September) the recirculating system may become overloaded and force a
discharge to adjacent surface waters. During periods when the system is
receiving above normal rainfall inputs, groundwater withdrawals will be
reduced to the minimum required for processing.
When a discharge from the recirculating water system is required,
the primary point of discharge will be from the clearwater pond at the
beneficiation plant to Hickory Creek (Figures 2-10 and 2-11). A sec-
ondary discharge point will also be provided to release clarified water
from clay settling area II to Oak Creek. Farmland has requested a
2-10
-------
RETURN WATER CANAL
CLEAR WATER POND
•* SPILLWAYS AS REQUIRED
t—j- (40,000 to 50,000 GPM)
I
[ooooooo]
I CLARIFIED WATER
PUMPING STATION
P PUMP
(^40,000 GPM)
<
<
o
ff
HI
ACTIVE RECLAMATION AREAS
i . ; ,
EMERGENCY OUTFALL ——=p—"~V~v^^ r*
' SAND/CLAY MIX
RECLAMATION
MINED OUT PITS FILLED
WITH SEEPAGE & RAIN
WATER
FIGURE 2-7. FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC. MINING-
WASTE DISPOSAL RECIRCULATION SYSTEM.
SOURCE: FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC., HARDEE COUNTY MASTER PLAN. JUNE 1979
2-11
-------
0)
u
10
500
•0
3
2
*»
O
O
En
1000
Seal water wells
Deep production wells
Potable water wells
Upper sand twit
Hawthorn
•j^-T Formation.
I Tampa Limestone
Suwannoe Limestone II
Ocala Group
Limestone Unit 13
Avon Park Limestone
y Polos tone Uhit
FIGURE 2-8. WELL LOCATIONS WITHIN THE FARMLAND SITE;
HYDROGEOLOGICAL CROSS-SECTION.
SOURCE: FARMLAND INDUSTRIES. INC., DRI, JUNE 1979
2-12
-------
NET CVAP. LOSS
PLANT
&
MINE WATER
SYSTEM
WASTE PEBBLE
AMINE CIRCUIT
6.030
POTABLE WATER
NET RAINFALL-EVAPORATION
RECLAMATION AREA
I SAND A CLAY DISPOSAL)
MINE AREA
ADSORPTION
I DISCHARGE |
SEAL WATER
GROUND WATER SYSTEM
PROCESS DEMAND'9.21 MGD
NET WITHDRAWAL AFTER SEEPAGE' 4. 7 7 MGD
on normal ralnlall-avbporatlon.
** Accumulation otfaata mlna watar syitam •vaporatlon lost.
**KExcaaa accumulation la discharged at catchmant araa Incraaaai tn latar yaars.
FIGURE 2-9. MINE WATER BALANCE DURING THE INITIAL YEARS OF MINING.
SOURCE: FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC., DRI, JUNE 1979
-------
-r t-i p-i
I/ .-•' !
FIGURE 2-10 MASTER DRAINAGE PLAN FOR THE FARMLAND
INDUSTRIES, INC. MINE SITE.
SOURCE: FARMLAND INDUSTRIES. INC., HARDEE COUNTY MASTER PLAN, JUNE 1
2-14
-------
NJ
f—'
Ol
SECONDARY
-DISCHARGE
POINT
SETTLING AREA H A
SETTLING AREA H B
WASTE CLAY
PUMPING STATION
PRIMARY
DISCHARGE
POINT
RECLAIMED OAK
CREEK CHANNEL
PROPOSED
FARMLAND
PLANT SITE
RETURN WATER
PUMPING STATION
TO PEACE RIVER
TO PEACE RIVER
FIGURE 2-11. FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC. PRIMARY AND
SECONDARY EFFLUENT DISCHARGE POINTS.
SOURCE: FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC.. DRI, JUNE 1979
-------
permit to discharge at an annual average rate of 3.75 mgd when rainfall
conditions require it (Farmland 1981). The largest discharge antici-
pated would be on the order of 48 mgd—the discharge of catchment from a
12 in. rainfall over a period of 5 days.
Farmland has developed a detailed reclamation plan for the mined
site based on the waste disposal plan presented in Figure 2-6. This
plan is designed to return the mined site back to useful acreage, both
for human use and for wildlife (Figure 2-12) . A comparison of existing
land use with post-reclamation land use is provided in Figure 2-13. The
post-reclamation topography of the mined site is shown in Figure 2-14.
Additional details of this plan are provided in Section 2.7 of this
statement.
Farmland's proposed action also includes a number of measures
designed to reduce the potential for adverse impacts on the environment.
These are described below by the components with which they are most
closely associated:
Mining
• The existing vegetative cover will be maintained on all land for
which mining or support activities are not imminent.
• The vegetative cover on about one-third of the mine site will be
preserved—including the most important wetland acreages.
• Dragline crossings of stream channels will be selected to disturb
the least total area, particularly the least wetland area; and
crossings of Oak Creek and Hickory Creek will be timed to coincide
with the dry, no-flow periods.
• The Oak Creek crossings through the preserved portion of Oak Creek
Islands will be made along a single corridor.
• Vegetation will be established on the approaches to creek crossings
and these will be maintained until the final crossing is made.
• Fill introduced into creek channels during dragline crossings will
be removed after the crossings and the banks immediately stabilized
with vegetation.
• Mine cuts adjacent to property boundaries will be promptly back-
filled, and rim ditches will be used, where necessary, to maintain
Surficial Aquifer levels at adjacent property boundaries.
2-16
-------
FIGURE 2-12. POST RECLAMATION LAND USE ON THE
FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC. MINE SITE.
SOURCE: FARMLAND INDUSTRIES. INC., HARDEE COUNTY MASTER PLAN, JUNE 1979
FRESHWATER SWAMP
FRESHWATER MARSH
!• • -i PINE FLATWOODS/PALMETTO RANGE
I.V.V.M UPLAND FOREST
I I IMPROVED PASTURE
CITRUS
OTHER AGRICULTURE
REFORESTATION WITH MIXTURE
OF PINES AND HARDWOODS
LAKE AREAS
0 2,000 4,000
SCALE IN FEET
2-17
-------
PINE FLATWOODS/
PALMETTO RANG:
11.9%
NON-FORESTED
WETLANDS
6.1%
IMPROVED PASTURE/CROPLAND
32.8%
EXISTING LAND USE
CITRUS
24.3%
FORESTED UPLANDS
10.0%
FORESTED WETLANDS
14.9%
IMPROVED PASTURE/CROPLAND*
58.9%
*INCLUDES EXPERIMENTAL AGRICULTURAL AREA.
POST-RECLAMATION LAND USE
FIGURE 2-13. EXISTING AND POST-RECLAMATION LAND USE ON THE MINE SITE.
SOURCE: FARMLAND INDUSTRIES. INC., HARDEE COUNTY MASTER PLAN, JUNE 1979
2-18
-------
T 34 S
TU>
PROPERTY BOUNDARY
\jgg*A Oil PARCEL (NOT FARMLAND PROPERTY)
._-)»--• EXISTING CONTULR (MSL DATl'M)
— 70— POST RECLAMATION CONTOIR
(MSL DATl M)
DRAINAGE AREA DIVIDE
FIGURE 2-14. POST RECLAMATION TOPOGRAPHY ON THE
FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC. MINE SITE.
SOURCE: FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC., HARDEE COUNTY MASTER PLAN, JUNE 1979
2,000 4,000
SCALE IN FEET
2-19
-------
Matrix Transport
• Double-walled pipe and catchment basins will be used at matrix
pipeline stream crossings to contain matrix slurry in the event of
a leak at that point.
• Pressure sensitive devices will be installed in matrix pipelines to
alert mine personnel to a significant leak in the system.
• Cut-off valves will be installed at both sides of pipeline stream
crossings to assist in controlling a pipeline leak at these points.
Matrix Processing
During plant construction, water sprays will be applied to unpaved
areas and roads to reduce particulate emissions.
During plant construction and operation, perimeter ditches will be
installed to collect runoff from the plant site area.
Storage facilities for reagents, fuel, lubricants, etc. will be
above ground within a walled or diked tank farm.
Petroleum storage tanks will be built to standards and designed to
prevent accidental spillage. Storage areas will be designed to
route spillage and/or accumulated rainfall to the mine water
recirculating system or to a tank within the area.
Waste Sand and Clay Disposal
The design and construction of dams required for the impoundment of
clay and sand-clay wastes will comply with all provisions of
Chapter 17-9 of the Florida Administrative Code.
Dam faces will be planted in grasses to inhibit wind and water
erosion, and will be mowed as necessary for visual inspection.
All dams will be inspected daily by a trained Farmland employee,
and annually by a design engineer.
Process Water Source
• Pumping may be reduced in dry periods in order to comply with
Southwest Florida Water Management District (SWFWMD) regulations.
Water Management Plan
• Water will be recycled to the maximum extent possible (approximately
90 percent).
• Discharges should occur only during periods of heavy rainfall.
2-20
-------
Reclamation
All dikes and ditches will be graded to acceptable slopes and
revegetated.
All disturbed land will be revegetated. An experimental revege-
tation program will be conducted on the first sand-clay mix land-
fill that becomes available to determine the agricultural and
wetland restoration potential of such areas.
As stated in the first paragraph of this section, Farmland's
proposed action is comprised of a number of project components linked so
as to provide a total project capable of meeting Farmland's goals.
However, the methods proposed by Farmland to achieve these goals are not
the only ones available. In the following sections various methods
(alternatives) associated with the previously identified project com-
ponents are described and evaluated, and the environmentally preferable
alternatives are identified. The evaluation is arranged by component in
the order previously identified (see page 2-1). The first alternative
discussed under a given component heading is Farmland's proposed action,
followed by other reasonable alternatives. Also provided in this
section is a listing of mitigating measures not included in Farmland's
proposed action which would serve to reduce the adverse environmental
impact of the project.
2.1 MINING
There are three mining methods currently in use within the indus-
try. These are dragline, dredge, and bucketwheel mining. Any mining
operation performed on the Farmland site will include land clearing and
open burning, drainage basin alterations, disruption of surface soils
and geologic strata over 4951 acres of the mine site, and finally matrix
extraction. Associated with these activities will be emissions of
particulates and some fuel combustion products, increased surface runoff
and erosion, disruption of streamflows and of the Surficial Aquifer, and
loss of vegetation, some wildlife, and most wildlife habitats over the
same area. It should be recognized that these impacts will occur
regardless of the mining method employed. There are, however, specific
2-21
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characteristics associated with each alternative mining method which
offer environmental advantages and disadvantages when compared to one
another. A general description of each mining alternative is presented
below, followed by environmental considerations. Where additional
information is required to complete the evaluation, technical and
economic considerations are provided. Lastly, a summary comparison is
presented to identify the environmentally preferable alternative.
2.1.1 DRAGLINE MINING (FARMLAND'S PROPOSED ACTION)
2.1.1.1 General Description
Farmland proposes to use a single large (45-cu yd) dragline to move
overburden and mine matrix during the first 9 years of operation (Figure
2-1). In year 10 a second smaller (20-cu yd) dragline would be added to
supplement the larger unit. Other than the fact that Farmland proposes
to initially mine with a single large dragline (rather than two smaller
units), the proposed mining method is as conventionally practiced in the
Florida phosphate industry.
Farmland's proposed mining sequence (Figure 2-2) has been developed
through the use of a computer model which simulates the mining and
processing of the entire mineable deposit on an annual basis over a
period of 20 years using the results of prospect drilling on the site
and the preliminary design of the mining and processing equipment as
input data. Each mining block illustrated in Figure 2-2 is designated
by year and relative position within the year (e.g., Block 6B would be
mined in year 6, after Block 6A and before Block 6C). Land clearing and
site preparation activities will precede the mining of each block. It
is estimated that about 250 acres would be mined each year of operation,
but that the amount of cleared land in front of the active mining pit
would be about 20 acres.
In order to permit draglines to move between sequential mining
blocks in years 4, 6, and 10, a corridor will be established through the
lower portion of Oak Creek Islands (Figure 2-15) an area to be largely
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PIPELINE/DRAGLINE
CORRIDOR
Sec. 11
Sec.14
FIGURE 2-15.
LOCATION OF THE PROPOSED PIPELINE/
DRAGLINE CORRIDOR THROUGH THE PRESERVED
PORTION OF OAK CREEK ISLANDS ON THE
FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC. MINE SITE.
1000 feet
SOURCE: FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC., HARDEE COUNTY MASTER PLAN, JUNE 1979
2-23
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preserved by Farmland's proposed mine plan. Matrix pumping and waste
disposal pipelines and a mine access road will also be routed through
this corridor.
Once existing vegetation has been cleared from the approaches to
the crossing, grasses will be established to prevent erosion and turbid
runoff into the creek. The approaches will be maintained until the
final crossing has been made in year 10. Farmland will attempt to time
the dragline crossing to coincide with no-flow periods in the creek so
that diversion of the creek will not be necessary. Once a crossing has
been made, any fill introduced into the channel will be excavated and
the banks immediately stabilized with vegetation.
In addition to the three planned dragline crossings of the pre-
served portion of Oak Creek, the mining plans call for the mining
dragline to cross the western portion of Oak Creek, as it moves from
mining block 4A to 4B, and the previously diverted northern tributary of
Oak Creek, as it moves from mining block 4B to 5A. The natural stream
courses in these areas are to be mined.
The mobility of the draglines which Farmland proposes to utilize
for the mining of their phosphate deposit is a key factor which was
incorporated into the development of their mining plan. This mobility
will also allow Farmland to mine around areas which are to be preserved
under their plan. These areas (shown in Figure 2-3) account for 2530
acres, or approximately one-third of the mine property. This acreage is
comprised of the following land use acreages:
Land Use Preserved Acreage
Improved Pasture 456
Citrus 160
Other Agriculture 58
Pine Flatwoods/Palmetto Range 354
Coniferous Upland Forest 47
Hardwood Upland Forest 187
Mixed Upland Forest 276
Freshwater Marsh 107
Freshwater Swamp 885
2-24
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As indicated above, 992 acres of wetlands will be preserved under
Farmland's mining plan. This acreage amounts to nearly all (98 percent)
of the Category 1* Wetlands on the mine site.
2.1.1.2 Environmental Considerations
Environmental Advantages. Using dragline mining, overburden could be
handled such that it could be selectively returned to the mined out pit.
This would allow the operator to place undesirable material (e.g., leach
zone) at the base of an adjoining spoils pile and cover it with other
overburden or waste from the beneficiation plant. Secondly, because of
the close proximity of the dragline to both the active and mined out
areas, handling of overburden could be accomplished in an energy-efficient
manner.
Draglines, being relatively mobile and capable of mining along
irregular boundaries, provide the capability of mining around areas to
be preserved. Other mining methods would likely be more restrictive in
this respect.
Environmental Disadvantages. The open pits created by dragline mining
would drain water from the adjacent Surficial Aquifer. The amount of
drainage would vary, but should average about 500 gpm. This dewatering
may have an effect on the water level in adjacent streams (especially
Hickory Creek) and the vegetation of adjacent areas (especially wet-
lands). This effect would be most evident during dry seasons.
Dragline mining would also create a very uneven spoiling pattern,
sometimes called windrows. The creation of such windrows will require
that heavy equipment be utilized in reclamation to create a more uniform
topography. Such leveling will require the burning of fuel (in heavy
*Category 1 Wetlands are those wetlands on the site which occur within
the 25-year floodplain of the Peace River or its tributaries upstream
to the point of 5 cfs mean annual flow, or wetlands considered to be
significant wildlife habitat.
2-25
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equipment) and result in increased air pollutant levels (e.g., com-
bustion products).
2.1.2 DREDGE MINING
2.1.2.1 General Description
Dredge mining of overburden and matrix is not practiced today in
the Florida phosphate industry, but dredges are in current use for the
mining of other sedimentary mineral deposits as well as for harbor and
canal work. Texasgulf Chemicals Company (in North Carolina) has been
dredging the upper 40 ft of their overburden prior to dragline mining.
This has been reported to be a successful technique in North Carolina,
largely because of the extremely wet upper overburden conditions which
had caused serious mine recovery problems when only draglines were used
for overburden removal.
The three most common dredge types are the bucket line, cutter
head, and bucketwheel. Each is basically a large, barge-mounted machine
consisting of a continuous digging apparatus mounted on a long boom
extending below the water surface. The bucket line unit consists of a
series of chain-carried buckets which continuously transfer material up
to the barge. The other two units cut material loose beneath the water
surface and pump it to the surface via a suction pipe.
If the Farmland phosphate deposit were to be dredge mined, two
units would likely be required. The overburden above the matrix would
be dredged by the first unit; the second would dredge the matrix.
Initially the overburden would be pumped to a separate impoundment area.
Once the mining pit was established, diked disposal areas would be
created within the pits. Matrix would be pumped directly from the
dredge to the beneficiation plant.
2.1.2.2 Environmental Considerations
Environmental Advantages. Dredge mining would require that the active
mining pit (i.e., pond) be flooded to sufficient depth to support a
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barge-mounted dredge. Thus, the environmental impacts associated with
dewatering of the Surficial Aquifer (described under dragline mining)
would not occur.
Dredged overburden would be slurry pumped from the active pond to a
diked settling area some distance away. Overburden deposited within
this area would settle and dewater, the water being returned to the
recirculating water system. Overburden deposited in such a manner would
tend to produce a flattened surface. Thus, leveling of the ridges
produced by dragline mining (and the associated fuel consumption/combustion
emissions) would not be required.
»
Environmental Disadvantages. Maintaining sufficient water within the
active mine area to support a barge-mounted dredge would likely require
that water from deep wells or surface waters be added to the pond during
the dry season. The amount of water required to maintain the pond depth
at a suitable level would depend on factors such as the area being mined
as a unit, the evaporation rate, and the rate at which water moved from
the pond into the adjacent Surficial Aquifer. In general, groundwater
requirements for dredge mining would likely be greater than for dragline
mining.
As indicated above, dredged overburden would be slurry pumped to
diked disposal areas to dewater. Such disposal areas would likely be
diked to sufficient height to receive the slurried overburden as well as
waste materials from the beneficiation plant, so that the volume of
material stored above ground would be higher than for matrix processing
waste disposal alone. The added volume would be occupied in part by
entrained water, the amount depending on its clay content. If signif-
icant amounts of clay were present in the overburden, the entrainment of
water could result in at least a short-term water loss to the system.
Dredge mining would not provide the opportunity to selectively
place undesirable material (e.g., leach zone) within overburden disposal
areas. Material handling using dredges would also require more energy
2-27
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than draglines and would not be as efficient at resource recovery. The
dredge operator would not be able to view the matrix-overburden inter-
face; therefore some matrix would likely be removed in the overburden
dredging operation and lost within the disposal areas.
2.1.2.3 Technical Considerations
If the character of the overburden and matrix of the Farmland
deposit is compared only with material handline capabilities of a
dredge, there is no technical reason why the deposit cannot be dredge
mined. The material generally is soft and sandy, with occasional
hardpan areas. The cutter head type dredge may have difficulty, but
either the bucketwheel or bucket line dredge could mine the Farmland
property quite comfortably. Very sophisticated and yet practical
equipment is available to permit very exact location of the cutting face
and avoid dilution with overburden. The depths required per the char-
acter of the Farmland deposit are well within the limits of very common
dredging equipment.
While dredges are technically capable of handling overburden and
matrix on the Farmland site in place of draglines, the following are
several reasons why dredge mining of the Farmland deposit is considered
technically unfeasible:
• Dredge mining slurry density levels are an unknown in the Florida
phosphate industry, and will remain so until a major test is
performed.
• It would be impractical for a dredge to contend with the mobility
required in the Farmland Mining Plan as illustrated in Figure 2-2.
Farmland's phosphate reserves are so highly variable in character
that in-plant blending would most likely not permit the optimum
single pond, two dredge approach.
Of the above considerations, the most critical is that of dredge
slurry density. Mining equipment manufacturers generally quote a unit
which will produce a continuous slurry density of 25 percent to 35
percent solids. This is the level which is normally achieved today with
draglines and their associated slurry transport system. Purchasing a
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dredge without the assurance that it could move on the order of 1500
tons per hour at 30 percent solids could lead to serious production
problems for Farmland (i.e., the amount of material moved at 15 percent
solids would be less than half that moved at 30 percent solids).
Without a major and very costly test of a dredge operating within a
typical Florida phosphate deposit (which has not been done) a proven
slurry density or capacity rating cannot be assumed. The range of
tonnage capacities achieved at various slurry densities would be as
follows:
Slurry Density
(wt. % Solids)
35
30
25
20
15
10
System Slurry
Capacity
16,200 gpm
16,200 gpm
16,200 gpm
16,200 gpm
16,200 gpm
16,200 gpm
Tonnage
Capacity
1,820 TPH*
1,500 TPH
1,200 TPH
930 TPH
670 TPH
430 TPH
% of Required
Capacity
121%
100%
80%
62%
45%
27%
*Tons Per Hour
Dredge mining would also introduce organic contaminants from the
overburden soils into the recirculating water system. This could result
in operational difficulties unless water treatment facilities were
installed to remove them.
2.1.3 BUCKETWHEEL MINING
2.1.3.1 General Description
Bucketwheel excavators are large continuous mining machines which
normally operate in conditions usually much drier than Florida phosphate
pits. These units would excavate material with a series of buckets
mounted on the periphery rotating wheel and drop it onto a conveyor belt
system. Overburden would be routed for disposal in previously mined
areas, while matrix would be sent to the beneficiation plant. A modi-
fication of this technique will be utilized by North Carolina Phosphate
Corporation in the mining of their North Carolina reserves. In this
2-29
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case, bucketwheels will be used only for the removal of upper over-
burden, with the remainder of the overburden and matrix to be mined with
a large dragline. An advantage of this system is that overburden can
be selectively placed between the windrows created by the dragline, thus
reducing the need for leveling.
If the Farmland phosphate deposit were to be mined with bucket-
wheels, it would probably be done using two units—one to excavate
overburden and a second to excavate matrix. Overburden would be placed
directly into the pit by way of a mobile stacker, ending up in spoil
piles nearly identical to those which draglines produce. The matrix
would be transferred to a belt conveyor and transported to the plant.
2.1.3.2 Environmental Considerations
Environmental Advantages. Like dragline mining, bucketwheel mining
would result in the placement of overburden from the active mining area
into nearby mined areas. However, this would be accomplished by way of
conveyors and stackers which would be capable of distributing the
overburden such that the windrows formed by dragline casting could be
eliminated. The surface created for further waste disposal would
therefore be more level than that created by draglines.
Environmental Disadvantages. Bucketwheels would operate within the open
pit, rather than on a natural ground ahead of the mining operation (as
draglines do). Thus, it would be necessary to control the amount of
water within the pit to a greater degree than with draglines. This
would probably require that wells be located in advance of the mining
operation and in its immediate vicinity to dewater the Surficial Aqui-
fer. Working in material such as that at the Farmland site, bucket-
wheels would also be more energy consumptive than draglines.
2.1.3.3 Technical Considerations
It may be impractical to utilize bucketwheels for mining in any of
the southern Florida phosphate areas because of the extremely wet
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conditions which can occur in the pits. Bucketwheels can traverse in
wet muddy pits only with great difficulty.
Bucketwheels must also operate with their wheel digging into a near
vertical embankment in order to be effective. The wet sandy overburden
or matrix embankments on the Farmland property may not always stand in
this manner. If caving and sluffing occurred, the result would be a
very poor operating factor.
Lastly, the overburden and matrix are often very "sticky". When
this were the case, the wheel mechanism and conveyors would not be able
to handle the material very effectively. The buckets on the wheel would
not empty and the conveyors would not discharge or transfer properly.
Because of the need to move 1000 and 2000 tons per hour, an intolerable
operating situation could result in a very short time.
2.1.4 SUMMARY COMPARISON - MINING
Overriding advantages offered by dragline mining are maximum
operation energy efficiency, relatively decreased water consumption, and
opportunity for selective spoil placement. These outweigh the lesser
advantages offered by the other two alternatives. Therefore, dragline
mining is the environmentally preferable mining component alternative.
2.2 MATRIX TRANSPORT
There are three matrix transport methods which could be used to
deliver mined material to the plant for further processing. These are
slurry transport, conveyor transport, and truck transport. A general
description of each matrix transport alternative is presented below,
followed by environmental considerations. Where additional information
is required to complete the evaluation, technical and economic con-
siderations are provided. Lastly, a summary comparison is presented to
identify the environmentally preferable alternative.
2-31
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2.2.1 SLURRY MATRIX TRANSPORT (FARMLAND'S PROPOSED ACTION)
2.2.1.1 General Description
Slurry matrix transport (Figures 2-4 and 2-16) is used at most
existing Florida phosphate mines. Matrix would be placed into a slurry
pit and mixed with recycled water (17,720 gpm) from high pressure
nozzles, breaking down the clay and sand matrix into a 26 percent solids
matrix slurry which would then be transported through a pipeline (16-20
inches) to the beneficiation plant by a series of large pumps operating
at about 19,400 gpm. The turbulence produced by the high pressure
nozzles, pumps, and pipeline would all contribute to the processing
sequence to follow at the plant.
The pumps used to move the slurry from the active mine pit to the
plant would be located in series along the pipeline route at distances
such that surges against any one pump will be prevented. The horsepower
required to move the matrix solids and transport water is approximately
3400 HP, assuming an average pumping distance of 10,000 ft. The trans-
port water used can be clarified recycle water from most any source.
However, water used in the pump seals* must be of high quality and would
be obtained from shallow wells into the Surficial Aquifer. This water
is used to force solids out of critical wear points.
The pipeline used to transport matrix from the active mine pit to
the beneficiation plant will be rerouted as the mining area changes.
This will require that streams on the site be crossed and a corridor
through an otherwise preserved area be established. The corridor used
will be the same as that provided for dragline crossings through the
area.
* A pump seal is the closure between the rotating shaft and the pump
housing.
2-32
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MATRIX FROM DRAGLINE
FEED TO FLOTATION
(2,400 QPM)
PEBBLE PHOSPHATE PRODUCT
(60 QPM I
SEAL WATER-(210 DPMI
SLURRY MATRIX TRANSPORT
MATRIX FROM DRAGLINE
FEED TO FLOTATION
(2,4000PM)
PEBBLE PHOSPHATE PRODUCT
IBOGPMI
*Not considering 1570 GPM moisture in matrix
CONVEYOR MATRIX TRANSPORT
FIGURE 2-16. SLURRY AND CONVEYOR MATRIX TRANSPORT
FLOW DIAGRAMS.
SOURCE: J.J. CAPE, 1979
-------
2.2.1.2 Environmental Considerations
Environmental Advantages. Matrix transported by slurry pipeline would
be closed to the atmosphere and, thus, particulate emissions would be
nil.
The corridor required for the slurry pipeline would also cause the
least disturbance to vegetation and wildlife of all the alternatives
considered.
Environmental Disadvantages. A number of streams would be crossed by
the slurry pipeline as mining progresses over the site. A potential
would exist for pipeline leaks and/or breaks which could increase
turbidities in surface waters (especially at stream crossings).
Pumping would also require a relatively large amount of energy
(e.g., pumping 1500 tons per hour at 26 percent solids a distance of
10,000 ft would require about 23,800,000 Kwh of electricity per year).
2.2.2 CONVEYOR MATRIX TRANSPORT
2.2.2.1 General Description
Conveyor matrix transport (Figure 2-3) would require that matrix be
placed onto a belt conveyor at the mine for transport to the beneficiation
plant. In order to minimize the number of transfer points and still
maintain mobility of the conveyor sections, such a conveyor belt system
would most likely include belt sections of up to 2000 ft in length. As
the mine pit advanced, it would be necessary to move or extend the belt
system in the same direction—resulting in continuous sections ranging
from 10,000 ft to 20,000 ft in total length.
2.2.2.2 Enyironmental Considerations
Environmental Advantages. Because the matrix would be transported in a
relatively dry state, the potential for spillage of matrix into surface
2-34
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waters would be reduced—although spillage prevention/containment
measures would still be needed at stream crossings.
Conveyor matrix transport would also require less energy than
slurry pumping (e.g., conveyor transport of 1500 tons per hour a dis-
tance of 10,000 ft would require 7,000,000 Kwh of electricity per year-
less than one-third of the energy required for the pumping of matrix a
similar distance).
Environmental Disadvantages. There may be a slight increase in par-
ticulate levels near moving conveyors.
2.2.2.3 Technical Considerations
None of the Florida phosphate industries have attempted raw matrix
transport with a conveyor. However, new equipment could be developed
which would provide a means of controlling feed rate and avoiding matrix
stickiness problems—the technical problems associated with this alter-
native. Brewster Phosphate Company operates a matrix conveyor, but this
conveyor carries partially processed matrix (i.e., matrix which is
transported by conventional pumping to a set of cyclones which remove
some of the oversize material and clay slimes and partially dewater the
material before it drops onto the belt). The Brewster system provides
no real technical advantage over the present slurry matrix transport
systems, but is intended to save on pumping costs.
2.2.3 TRUCK MATRIX TRANSPORT
2.2.3.1 General Description
In evaluating the use of trucks for matrix transport, it is assumed
that draglines would be used for excavating the matrix. A dragline
would load the trucks, which would then transport the matrix via haul
roads to the beneficiation plant. At the plant matrix would be dumped
and/or washed out of the trucks and, as with conveyor transport, mixed
with recycle water before further processing.
2-35
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2.2.3.2 Environmental Considerations
Environmental Advantages. The potential for spillage of matrix into
surface waters at stream crossings would be the least of all the alter-
natives considered.
Environmental Disadvantages. The construction and use of haul roads
required for truck transport would cause the most disturbance to vege-
tation and wildlife of all the alternatives considered. Trucks would
also require the use of large amounts of fuel, and result in additional
air emissions—from fuel combustion, fugitive dust, and the matrix
itself.
2.2.4 SUMMARY COMPARISON - MATRIX TRANSPORT
Disadvantages of truck transport far outweigh any advantages. It
should be noted that while both trucks and the conveyor method avoid the
use of large amounts of recycle water to transport matrix, this is not a
real advantage in that an equivalent amount of recycle water would be
added to the matrix on arrival at the plant before further processing.
Because conveyor matrix transport lessens the potential for spillage at
stream crossings and because it would require significantly less energy
than slurry pumping, it represents the environmentally preferable
alternative. However, at the present time difficult technical problems
appear to preclude its feasibility.
2.3 MATRIX PROCESSING
Matrix processing takes place in what is generally called a bene-
ficiation plant. The location of such a plant on the Farmland site will
result in the alteration of surface soils and construction of roadways,
railways, and various structures. The area required for such plant
facilities should be similar, regardless of which matrix processing
method is used.
2-36
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Farmland has proposed that the plant facilities be located on an
unmined area of about 111 acres (Figure 2-17). From the engineering
standpoint, it is desirable that the site be located such that matrix
transport distances will be minimized and valuable phosphate will not be
covered with relatively permanent structures. Also a consideration in
the location of such a plant is the habitat value of the existing
vegetation which occurs on the area to be disturbed (Figure 2-18). From
Figure 2-18 it is evident that the plant site location proposed by
Farmland is also environmentally preferable, for it occurs within what
is currently improved pasture. The access corridor (from the existing
SR 663 and Seaboard Coast Line Railroad) is also located along an
environmentally preferable alignment, through what is mostly pasture and
pine flatwoods-palmetto range. Only relatively minor amounts of more
valuable habitats (e.g., hardwood upland forest and freshwater marsh)
will be affected by this alignment. The location of these facilities on
other centrally located portions of the site which are not to be mined
would result in greater losses of habitat than Farmland's proposed
location.
There are two matrix processing methods currently in use within the
industry. These are conventional matrix processing and dry matrix
processing. A general description of each matrix processing alternative
is presented below, followed by environmental considerations. Where
additional information is required to complete the evaluation, technical
and economic considerations are provided. Lastly, a summary comparison
is presented to identify the environmentally preferable alternative.
2.3.1 CONVENTIONAL MATRIX PROCESSING (FARMLAND'S PROPOSED ACTION)
2.3.1.1 General Description
Conventional matrix processing involves the separation of phosphate
rock from waste sand and clay using a series of wet-process operations.
These consist of washing, feed preparation, and flotation. In the
washer area (Figure 2-19) the oversize waste material and pebble product
would be removed. The remaining material (finer than 1 mm) would be
2-37
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i '
i
i.,
oo
Farmland Industrial, Inc
Proparty Location In
Hardaa County, Florida
PLANT SITE LOCATION
FIGURE 2-17. LOCATION OF BENEFICIATION PLANT FACILITIES
ON THE FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC. MINE SITE,
SOURCE: FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC.. DRI, JUNE 1979
-------
ACCESS CORRIDOR
I
PLANT SITE
213
OAK CREEK
ISLANDS
(PRESERVED AREA)
VEGETATION TYPE
PASTURE
CITRUS GROVE
PINE FLATWOODS-PALMETTO RANGE
OTHER HARDWOOD UPLAND FOREST
FRESHWATER SWAMP
FRESHWATER MARSH
0 500 1000
^•^
SCALE IN FEET
-IGURE 2-18. VEGETATION TYPES IN THE VICINITY OF THE
PROPOSED FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC.
PLANT SITE.
SOURCE: FARMLAND INDUSTRIES. INC., HARDEE COUNTY MASTER PLAN, JUNE 1979
-------
WATER
PHOSPHATE MATRIX SLURRY
FROM THE MINE
OVERSIZE +3/4"
W W
TROMMELS
J 1
1 1
1
HAMMERMILL
S
1 «-
S
CO
RECYCLE WASHER WATER AND FINES
PROCESS W
1
4 4
FLUME SCREENS
ATER 1+14 MESHL-
* 1
PRIMARY
VIBRATING SCREENS
-J 1 1
PROCESS WATER I
• w
PRIMARY
LOG WASHERS
_i I
PROCESS WATER I
^ 9
SECONDARY
VIBRATING SCREENS
1 I
PROCESS WATER 1
* *
SECONDARY
LOG WASHER
| |
PROCESS WATER 1
* •
TERTIARY
VIBRATING SCREEN
_| 1
1
PEBBLE
DEWATERING SCREEN
J 1
1
PEBBLE
STORAGE BINS
FINES
-14 MESH
FINES
TO PRIMARY
+14 MESH
TO WET PHOSPHATE ROCK
STORAGE
FIGURE 2-19. FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC. WASHER PROCESS FLOWSHEET.
SOURCE: FARMLAND INDUSTRIES. INC.. HARDEE COUNTY MASTER PLAN, JUNE 1979
2-40
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routed to the feed preparation area where hydrocyclones would separate
the very fine material (minus 0.1 mm), which is mostly clay, from the
sand size material. Although these clays contain phosphate, there is
currently no economical method for recovering the fine phosphate par-
ticle portion. The waste clay and fine phosphate would then be routed
to a 450-ft diameter thickener, a large tank with internal components
which direct and segregate the clay slurry to provide a more concen-
trated effluent stream (underflow) and a clarified liquid in the other
stream. The underflow would be pumped for disposal as clay waste, while
the overflow would be returned to the process water flow.
Material from the feed preparation area would be further processed
by flotation (Figure 2-20). During the initial "rougher" flotation, the
feed would be dewatered, conditioned with fatty acid and other reagents,
and fed to flotation machines designed to separate the phosphate from
the quartz sand particles. The phosphate particles collected from the
"rougher" stage of concentration would be dewatered, scrubbed with
sulfuric acid, and washed free of organics and other material with fresh
water prior to the second or "amine" flotation stage. In this stage the
material would be conditioned with amine and other reagents which coat
the quartz sand. The remaining quartz sand would then be floated away
from the phosphate, resulting in an upgraded final phosphate concentrate
product.
The rinsing before amine flotation and the dilution water added to
the amine cells are the main uses of fresh (deep well) water in the
process (6.03 mgd). Recycle water utilized for this function would
upset the process and result in an unacceptable phosphate product. The
reagents used in processing attach to the quartz sand waste (tailings)
particles or remain in the rinse water which would flow to join the
waste clay disposal stream. The wet pebble and concentration products
from the washer and flotation areas, respectively, would be transferred
by conveyor belts to outdoor storage piles. Wet rock would be withdrawn
or reclaimed from storage by means of a conveyor located inside a tunnel
2-41
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WASTE
CLAY
FROM WASHER f
1
PRIMARY
CYCLONES
RECYCLE WATER |I
1 • IS* ISO MESH 1
1 i
TERTIARY
CYCLONES
1 , •
; i
FINE FEED f
STORAGE BINS f
XECYCLE WATER 1 , . •
+ 1
FINE FEED
CYCLONES
1 REAGENTS
FINE FEED
CONDITIONERS
I I
FINE ROUGHER
CELL
1 i. j
^.
1
WASTE
CLAY
t
» 1
SECONDARY
CYCLONES
i
1
UNSIZED
STORAGE
1 i
-
FEED
BINS
RECYCLE WATER
4
HYDRAULIC
SIZERS
,
,
RECYCLE WATER,
<
+ 20 VIBRATING
SCREENS
_
n
,
1
10 • 3! MESH 1 ^
COARSE FEED
STORAGE BIN
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r
RECYCLE WATER
COARSE FEED
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,
.
REAGENTS
1,
COARSE DRUM
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,
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,
•
4
COARSE ROUGHER
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) !
1
SAND
TRAP
,
•
•
r
t i
RECYCLE WATER
i
CONSTANT
HEAD TANK
<
»JO CONVEVOH
*
SPIRAL FEED
SURGE BIN
i
REAGENTS
DRUM
CONDITIONER
,
RECYCLE WATER
1 1
SPIRAL
CLUSTERS
/
•
,
r i
SCAVENGER
CELL
.
"~ T '
'
*
1 r RECYCLE WATER
t~*-?
i
— <
__y
THICKENER OMT
HYDROSEPARATOR
TO CLAY
DISPOSAL
.. .
. '* * *
ROUGHER CONC.
CYCLONES
i
1
*
ACID
SCRUBBERS
,
.
f
ACID RINSE
CYCLONES
<
1
f
> SULFUfllC AC(0
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*
PRIMARY ACID
RINSE
i
r
SECONDARY
RINSE
.
,\
AMINE
CELLS
*
^ 1
U- 5*"5 li'LS _ _»
TO TAILS
DISPOSAL
1
,
+
ACID
. *
WELL WATER
REAGENTS
1 '
SPIRAL CONC.
CYCLONES
,
•
FINAL CONC.
CYCLONES
i
SPIRAL CONC.
STORAGE BINS
FINAL CONC.
STORAGE BINS
PRODUCT PRODUCT
TO STORAGE TO STORAGE
FIGURE 2-20. FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC. FEED PREPARATION
AND FLOTATION FLOWSHEET.
SOURCE: FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC., HARDEE COUNTY MASTER PLAN, JUNE 1979
-------
under the storage pile. Any drainage from the stored rock would be
returned to the beneficiation plant circuit.
2.3.1.2 Environmental Considerations
Environmental Advantages. Because the processing operations are done in
a wet state, the plant would have no significant air emissions.
Environmental Disadvantages. The feed preparation area of the plant
will produce a liquid waste stream containing waste clays at about 3
percent solids. Disposal of these clays will require that they be
impounded within diked settling areas to dewater, presenting significant
waste disposal problems.
The amine flotation area of the plant will require the use of large
amounts (6.03 mgd) of fresh water from deep wells, resulting in a
lowering of the potentiometric surface of the Floridan Aquifer.
Conventional processing also utilizes various reagents to aid in
the separation of the various matrix fractions. Although some of the
reagents used in processing attach to the sand tailings, a portion
remain in the rinse water and flow to the waste disposal areas with the
waste clays. Some portion of these reagents will volatilize from the
waste disposal areas, while others will be adsorbed by the clays them-
selves. However, very small quantities will also be present in the
effluent discharge.
2.3.2 DRY MATRIX PROCESSING
2.3.2.1 General Description
The general concept of dry processing involves the production of
usable phosphate product from matrix—directly following its excavation
and drying. Matrix would be trucked, conveyed, or through some other
means transported to the beneficiation plant. There it would be dried,
crushed, and sized to minus 1 mm before the finer components (mostly
2-43
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clay) were separated from the coarser in an air separator. Several
stages of separation would be required to efficiently separate the fine
clay from the dried and crushed matrix. The phosphate product would
then be separated from the remaining coarser material by an electro-
static separator. The product distribution would be approximately 1/4
fine dust, 1/2 quartz sand, and 1/4 phosphate product.
2.3.2.2 Environmental Considerations
Environmental Advantages. Dry matrix processing would reduce ground-
water withdrawals and eliminate the environmental hazards of large diked
areas now used for the clarification of water used in conventional
matrix processing. Dry processing of matrix would also significantly
reduce the volume of clay waste due to absence of entrained water. In
addition, recovery of phosphate from the matrix could also be increased
if a portion of the phosphate fines which are disposed of with waste
clays in conventional processing could be retained at the plant as
product.
Environmental Disadvantages. Dry matrix processing would be extremely
energy consumptive. Matrix from the mine contains about 19 percent
water and would have to be dried before dry processing, consuming about
70 million gallons of fuel per year. The burning of such large amounts
of fuel would result in significantly more air emissions than for a
conventional plant. The handling and disposal of dry waste materials
would also result in increased particulate emissions in the site area.
2.3.2.3 Technlcal Considerations
Dry matrix processing is currently in use in at least one foreign
phosphate plant. However, the matrix from this foreign operation is of
low moisture content (coming from a dry underground mine), the phosphate
content is extremely high (as compared to Florida matrix), and electro-
static separation is not required. Over the past several decades,
attempts have been made to develop a dry process for Florida matrix.
Although it is said to be technically feasible, it has not yet been
proven practical.
2-44
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2.3.4 SUMMARY COMPARISON - MATRIX PROCESSING
Both conventional and dry matrix processing present significant
environmental disadvantages, the former in terms of water consumption
and the latter in terms of energy consumption and air emissions. It
appears that conventional processing may be somewhat less environmen-
tally disadvantageous, although future technological developments may
improve the aspect for dry processing.
2.4 WASTE SAND AND CLAY DISPOSAL
Disposal of waste from matrix processing is a particularly diffi-
cult problem confounding the industry. There are two waste sand and
clay disposal methods currently in use. These are sand-clay mixing and
conventional sand and clay disposal. Both methods entail the commitment
of vast acreages of land to very limited use, at least in the short
term; and both involve the use of dikes and impoundments—all or part of
which may be above grade. Dikes are subject to potential failures,
however remote the likelihood, while impoundments entrap rainfall and
surface water flows, resulting in the need to discharge effluent to
surface waters. These impacts will occur to a greater or lesser degree
regardless of the disposal method employed. There are, however, specific
characteristics associated with each alternative waste sand and clay
disposal method which offer environmental advantages and disadvantages
when compared to one another. A general description of each waste sand
and clay disposal alternative is presented below, followed by environ-
mental considerations. Where additional information is required to
complete the evaluation, technical and economic considerations are
provided. Lastly, a summary comparison is presented to identify the
environmentally preferable alternative.
2-45
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2.4.1 SAND-CLAY MIXING (FARMLAND'S PROPOSED ACTION)
2.4.1.1 General Description
The majority of the sand and clay wastes from the beneficiation
plant would be disposed of through the sand-clay mix technique (Figure
2-6). Refinement of sand-clay mixing techniques is presently receiving
research emphasis from the industry. Brewster Phosphates has been one
of the pioneers in developing field scale models of sand-clay mixing.
Their method of obtaining a sand-clay mix involves the placement of clay
slurry from the beneficiation plant into mine cuts where they are
allowed to settle to 12-15 percent solids. Sand tailings are then
sprayed over the consolidated clays. The sand penetrates and mixes with
the clays, liberating water and producing a thick sand-clay mixture.
After the mixture has consolidated, overburden from adjacent spoils
piles is spread over the surface and graded. Use of this method has not
been totally successful to date, but work is continuing on its development.
During the early years of mining, Farmland plans to experiment with
the most up to date techniques available and select the technique that
is best suited to the conditions at their mine. The sand-clay mixing
would start in the south-central portion of the property in year 4, and
progress to the other mined-out areas throughout the life of the mine.
The water used to transport the clay and tailings sand would return to
the mine water recirculating system by a system of ditches and spill-
ways. Since the mining and sand-clay disposal areas would constantly be
relocated, the mine water recirculation system would also undergo
frequent rerouting. In addition to sand-clay mix areas, two separate
clay disposal and two separate sand tailings disposal areas are also
planned (Figure 2-6). These separate disposal areas are necessary for
two reasons:
• In the startup phase of the operation, there would be no below-
ground area available for waste disposal; therefore, the waste
clays must initially be stored in an impoundment constructed on
natural ground (Settling Area I—Figure 2-6).
2-46
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Since the sand and clay content of the ore varies considerably, it
will not be possible to achieve the proper mixing ratio on a con-
tinuous basis. Therefore, separate disposal areas will be nec-
essary to receive either sand or clay wastes periodically generated
in excess of the capabilities of the sand-clay mix process (Area
II—Figure 2-6).
The clay retention dams are planned to have an average height of 41
ft above-grade, but filled no higher than 35 ft (Figures 2-21 and 2-22).
As currently planned, Settling Area I (Figure 2-7) will occupy 495
acres and Settling Area II, 583 acres. Phosphatic clays pumped to the
settling areas as a slurry of approximately 3 percent solids would, over
a period of 10 years or more, settle to 18 to 20 percent solids. The
ore underlying the clays stored in Settling Area I would be mined during
the last few years of mining. Prior to this, the overlying clays
(thickened by dewatering over the years) would be dredged and used in
sand-clay mixing or deposited within Area II. Area II is expected to
remain active through the life of the mine.
Sand-clay mix will be deposited over most of the mine site (3915
acres of the 4591 mined). Sand-clay mixing ratios ranging from 1.9:1 to
3.1:1 sand to clay are planned, depending primarily on the relative
proportions of sand and clay generated by the beneficiation process.
The average mixing ratio will be somewhat less than the average sand to
clay ratio of 2.6:1 for the ore body as a whole.
Sand-clay landfills are expected to undergo an initial period of
rapid dewatering and subsidence followed by a prolonged period of
gradual consolidation and further subsidence. In order to allow for
this subsidence, it is essential that sand-clay landfills be filled
initially to above natural grade. The level of backfilling will be used
to determine the final drainage characteristics of the subsided land-
fills. In areas where it is desirable to achieve a high proportion of
well-drained land, the level of backfilling will be adjusted so that the
landfill will ultimately subside to slightly above original grade. When
it is desirable to restore a hydric environment during reclamation, the
2-47
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40
| 20
Jo
JO
Clay
Compacted Sandy Clay
Panatrata to Shallow Clay
Layar or 10 It. Max. Dapth
To* Road
eo
•
£
120
2 0
20
SECTION A. 0AM ON UNMINED GROUND
Tailing Sand
SECTION B. DAM ON UNMINED GROUND - TAILINGS REINFORCED
To« Road
0 2O 40 BO BO
Horizontal aeala
FIGURE 2-21. RETENTION DAM DESIGN FOR CLAY IMPOUNDMENT AREAS ON UNMINED GROUND.
SOURCE: FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC., HARDEE COUNTY MASTER PLAN, JUNE 1979
-------
4O
• 20
s
20
-4O
Hard Clay and Llm.rocK
SECTION C. IN-PIT DAM - TAILINGS REINFORCED
Tailing Sand
2.5
- To* Road
Unmlnad Ground
Cast Ovarburdan
and/or Tailing Sand
40
20
Clay
-20
-40
Tailing Sand
2.5
Hard Clay and Llmaitona
' '-• '~^*--^fi^nimi'*L ' ' ' ' ' '' " * i'i'*~*l~
Tailing* Fill
Toa Road
C«»t Ovarburdan
and/or Tailing Sand
0 20 40 BO SOfaat
Horizontal acala
SECTION D. IN-PIT DAM WITH TAILINGS FILL
Unminad
Ground
FIGURE 2-22. RETENTION DAM DESIGN FOR CLAY IMPOUNDMENTS ON MINED GROUND.
SOURCE: FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC., HARDEE COUNTY MASTER PLAN, JUNE 1979
-------
level of backfilling will be adjusted to allow for subsidence to near or
i.'
slightly below existing grade.
In order to meet economic goals for the reclaimed site, Farmland
determined that the majority of sand-clay landfills should be backfilled
to provide a high proportion of well-drained land that will be suitable
for a variety of agricultural uses after reclamation. Of the 27 sand-
clay landfills shown in Figure 2-6, 25 will be of this type and will
cover approximately 3628 acres. Twenty of these landfills will be
enclosed by dikes averaging 17.5 ft in height and filled to an average
height of 11.5 ft above natural ground level to allow for 6.0 ft of
freeboard. The five remaining landfills of this type will be enclosed
by dikes averaging 20.0 ft in height and filled to an average height of
14.0 ft above natural ground (Figure 2-23). Farmland indicates that
subsidence will eventually bring these landfills to approximately 2.0-
3.0 ft above natural ground level.
Figure 2-24 depicts the filling of a typical sand-clay landfill.
Sand and clay introduced into the mine cuts in aqueous suspension will
be routed around protruding spoil piles toward the outlet end. During
this filling stage, clarified water will be drawn off at the outlet and
routed back into the mine water recirculation system. As the landfill
mixture consolidates, the inlet pipe will be moved either over the
landfill itself or over the protruding spoils. Due to the tendency of
fine clay particles to remain in suspension longer than the coarser
particles, the areas more distant from the inflow point, especially the
area immediately around the outlet spillway, are expected to fill
primarily with clays. These areas, therefore, will tend to subside more
than the rest of the landfill and will, unless corrected by stage
filling or grading of spoils, form areas where ponded water will stand
for a significant portion of the year. Similar depressions are known to
form around the outlet spillways in traditional clay settling areas.
The size of the depressions will depend on the size of the landfill
and the engineered elevation of the outfall. In general, the area of
2-50
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0
I I
Scale
100ft.
fej^j^i^//)^^
SHAPED: V-
OVERBURDEN
UNMINED GROUND
FIGURE 2-23
RETENTION DAM DESIGN FOR SAND-CLAY MIX LANDFILLS IN MINED-OUT AREAS,
SOURCE: FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC., HARDEE COUNTY MASTER PLAN, JUNE 1979
-------
IU
11!
SPOIL PILE I TYPICAL I
1
FIGURE 2-24. FILLING OF SAND-CLAY LANDFILL,
SOURCE: FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC., DRI, JUNE 1979
2-52
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hydric influence will be within the final mine cut, although the area
subject to inundation can be made larger or smaller according to design.
It is currently planned that approximately 5 percent of the total area
in sand-clay landfills will be within the area of hydric influence.
Since these depressions will be located at the downslope end of the
sand-clay landfills, drainage will be naturally directed through them.
In two of the sand-clay landfills, special techniques will be used.
These two special mix areas are labeled as Special Mix 1 and Special Mix
2 in Figure 2-6. During active mining of these areas, the water flow
through each of the two channels will be diverted into previously
prepared channels outside the mining area. After mining, levees approxi-
mately 11 ft in height will be constructed around these areas and sand-
clay mix introduced into them to an average height of about 6 ft above
natural grade. In order to speed up the subsidence and thereby allow
reclamation of these environmental restoration areas to proceed at a
more rapid pace, clays dredged from Settling Area I are planned to be
used in the sand-clay mix. Dredged clays will enter the landfills at
approximately 18 percent solids as opposed to 4 percent solids for clays
used in normal sand-clay landfills. The use of thickened clays will
promote more rapid consolidation of these landfills.
Subsidence will bring the special mix areas to near original grade
on the average, but greater subsidence where the sand-clay fill is the
thickest will result in the center of the filled mining cuts being
slightly below grade. This gradually sloping land around the protruding
spoil piles will in effect create broad swales approximately 150 ft wide
running east-west in Special Mix 1 and north-south in Special Mix 2.
The spoil piles will be graded and the entire area revegetated prior to
introduction of flow-through water into the areas.
2.4.1.2 Environmental Considerations
Environmental Advantages. Since sand-clay mix is expected to consoli-
date more than separately stored sand and clay (Figure 2-25), the use of
sand-clay mix techniques should also result in a final surface that more
2-53
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OVERBURDEN
BASELINE
OVERBURDEN
MATRIX
1 YD3
@>80%
SOLIDS
1.09
0.23
PHOS.
0.26
CLAY
O.51
SAND
0.19
PRODUCT
t
1
MINING
^^
BENEFICIATION
VOLUME
IN SITU
MATRIX
WASTE
1.25
1.55
0.51
OVERBURDEN
/
JUNRECOVERED
J PHOSPHATE
CLAY
@17X
SOLIDS
MATRIX.
WASTE
SAND
80X
SOLIDS
1.25
SAND
AND
CLAY
MIX
1.35
JUNRECOVERED
PHOSPHATE
VOLUME VOLUME
IF IMPOUNDED IF IMPOUNDED
SEPARATELY AS SAND-CLAY MIX
NOTE: VOLUMES ARE M YD*.
0.1 • YD* OF PRODUCT = 0.25 TONS OF PRODUCT.
FIGURE 2-25. MATRIX COMPOSITION AND WASTE VOLUME RELATIONSHIPS.
SOURCE: FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC., DRI. JUNE 1979
2-54
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closely approximates the original surface in both contour and elevation,
and the stability of these areas should allow for greater long-term land
use potential than areas of separately stored clay wastes. In addition,
the use of sand-clay mixing should allow for more rapid dewatering of
the clays—providing more water for recycling and reducing the extent to
which the clays would flow over land in the event of a dike failure.
Environmental Disadvantages. Because entrained water losses from the
system will most likely be less using sand-clay mix methods than for
conventional methods, there should be a greater chance that a discharge
from the facility will be required during periods of heavy rainfall.
It is possible that the stability of sand-clay mix areas will be
such that these areas are not suitable for some uses (e.g., buildings).
By using sand-clay mix methods, the resultant acreage of such limited-
use areas on the site might be greater than if these wastes had been
disposed of in separate areas using tested reclamation techniques.
In addition, it is estimated that 30 percent of the phosphate
content of the matrix remains with the clay waste using current matrix
processing techniques. Research is currently underway to develop the
technology to recover these phosphate resources. By diluting the
phosphate bearing clays with tailings sand, the ease of remining and
economic feasibility of reprocessing for recovery of this phosphate
resource will be diminished.
2.4.2 CONVENTIONAL SAND AND CLAY DISPOSAL
Sand-clay mixings will also be more energy intensive (on the order
of 160 percent) than conventional sand and clay disposal. This addi-
tional energy requirement results largely from the need to transport the
waste materials greater distances than would be the case with conven-
tional disposal methods.
2-55
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2.4.2.1 General Description
Conventional sand and clay disposal involves the disposal of these
wastes in separate diked impoundments. Waste sands pose no disposal
problem, for they dewater rapidly and can be used in the filling of
mined areas without difficulty. Clays, on the other hand, would enter
the disposal area at about 3 percent solids and would require a long
period of impoundment to dewater to any significant degree. Most of the
material deposited would not reach a density of more than 30 percent
solids in the foreseeable future. After the clays had settled and
compacted over a period of several years, these areas would generally be
left to revegetate naturally or be reclaimed as pasture by controlling
surface drainage.
If Farmland utilized conventional waste disposal methods, sep-
arately impounded waste clays would cover about 2500 acres of the site.
This area would eventually contain impounded clays to a height of 35 ft
above ground. The total acreage would be comprised of three major
impoundment areas ranging from 350 to 750 acres in size. Diking re-
quirements for these areas would be major (about 12 miles of 40 ft dikes
would be required).
2.4.2.2 Environmental Considerations
Environmental Advantages. The large pond areas used for clay settling
would consume water via entrainment—reducing the potential for a need
to discharge to surface waters. Process waters contained within clay
settling areas would also be separated from the underlying Surficial
Aquifer by the relatively impervious clays themselves—minimizing the
chance of Surficial Aquifer contamination by mining and beneficiation
reagents. The extent to which such reagents would move into the ad-
jacent Surficial Aquifer when placed in sand-clay mix disposal areas is
uncertain.
While the potential uses of reclaimed clay settling areas would be
limited, other areas not utilized for clay disposal could be reclaimed
2-56
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in a variety of ways based on years of phosphate reclamation experience.
By contrast, long-term reclamation limits of sand-clay mixes are untested.
Environmental Disadvantages. Relative to sand-clay mix impoundments,
the clay impoundments present increased potential for severe pollution
of surface water by clays released as a result of a dike failure.
Should a clay impoundment dike fail, as much as two-thirds of the
impounded clays (in a very fluid state) would escape. For one impound-
ment area of 600 acres, this would amount to about 11,500 acre-feet of
unconsolidated clay waste. The area affected by such a release would
cover approximately 6 square miles. These would likely enter adjacent
surface waters—resulting in the destruction of both plant and animal
life in the affected areas.
2.4.4 SUMMARY COMPARISON - WASTE DISPOSAL
Both conventional and sand-clay mix waste disposal methods pose
environmental problems. Moreover, it must be recognized that the
proposed sand-clay mix disposal plan by necessity incorporates conven-
tional clay settling methodology to some extent (Settling Areas I and
II), and to a corresponding degree reflects the environmental disad-
vantages of the conventional waste disposal method. However, the
overall environmental advantages of sand-clay mix waste disposal (e.g.,
improved post-mining topography, more rapid dewatering and increased
water recycling, decreased dike and fill heights, and reduced dike
failure hazard) clearly make it the environmentally preferable waste
sand and clay disposal alternative.
2.5 PROCESS WATER SOURCES
The process water flow using conventional matrix processing methods
for the Farmland project would be about 72 mgd, most (90 percent) of
which is recycled water. However, processing requires a continuous
supply of fresh water. Most of this (6.03 mgd of the total 9.21 mgd
2-57
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required) is required for the amine flotation segment of matrix pro-
cessing. The remainder is required as make-up for losses which are
incurred. There are two* alternative water sources which can be uti-
lized for processing requirements. These are groundwater withdrawal and
surface water impoundment. A general description of each process water
source alternative is presented below, followed by environmental con-
siderations. Lastly, a summary comparison is presented to identify the
environmentally preferable alternative.
2.5.1 GROUNDWATER WITHDRAWAL (FARMLAND'S PROPOSED ACTION)
2.5.1.1 General Description
The major source of water used at the mine would be from onsite
deep wells (Figure 2-9). The well field at the mine would likely
consist of a primary production well, standby production well, and a
potable water well. The production wells would be drilled to a depth of
approximately 1400 ft (Figure 2-8) and have a maximum capacity of 6200
gpm. An average daily pumping rate of 5075 gpm is planned for the
production well in use. The potable water supply well would have a
design capacity of 250 gpm and an average daily pumping rate of 15 gpm.
Process water withdrawals over the life of the mine can be des-
cribed in three phases, which are described in the following paragraphs.
Phase I. The Phase I water demand will be the requirement for pre-
filling Settling Area I. The pre-filling is necessary to offset delayed
water release by clays on start-up of the mining operation. The quan-
tity of 'water for pre-filling is based on a maximum deep well rate of
approximately 6200 gpm for 365 days (8.93 mgd average). The water level
*A potential third alternative, combined groundwater and surface water,
is not considered feasible in the case of the Farmland project because
the seasonal low flows of onsite streams preclude the opportunity for
diversion of significant amounts of surface water to processing while
maintaining the stream system. Therefore, any combination would require
impoundment and therefore would reflect the environmental disadvantages
of both methods.
2-58
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in Settling Area 1 will be maintained at an elevation sufficient to
provide rapid flow return to the plant water pool upon start-up.
Phase II. The second phase covers the start-up years, or period of
greatest water retention by the waste clays, based on conventional clay
disposal with solids reaching 17 percent and smaller catchment areas
than will exist in the later years of mining. The quantity of water
required will be 8.85 mgd: 8.83 mgd for rock processing plus 0.02 mgd
for potable water.
Phase III. During the third phase, the planned sand-clay mix treatment
is expected to reduce the deep well water requirements by returning more
water to the system due to increased solidification of the clays and
partial capture of the released, interstitial water from sand tailings.
The effectiveness of the sand-clay mix technique in releasing adsorbed
water from the clays has not been defined and requires full-scale
development and testing. Experimentation with the procedure will begin
early in the project to insure that the process will be developed and in
routine use at an early date. The degree of success for water recovery
improvements is not known at this time; therefore, the estimated ground-
water demand is shown only as a quantity equal to or less than that
required during conventional clay disposal (Phase II).
2.5.1.2 Environmental Considerations
Environmental Advantages. The use of groundwater, rather than surface
water, as a process water source would allow surface waters of the Peace
River system to be available for other downstream users. Maintaining
flows in adjacent streams and rivers would also eliminate the impacts on
aquatic biota that could result from reduced surface water flows.
Environmental Disadvantages. Groundwater pumping would lower the poten-
tiometric surface of the Floridan Aquifer in the site area, resulting in
adverse impacts on the aquifer. More energy would be required to pump
groundwater from deep wells than from nearby surface water sources.
2-59
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2.5.2 SURFACE WATER IMPOUNDMENT
2.5.2.1 General Description
The most readily available water source which could be utilized by
Farmland would be surface water from the nearby creeks and rivers.
Since the creeks on the site typically exhibit low flows, or even
intermittent flows, the quantity available for use as process water
could only be provided by impoundment. Surface water could be stored
and used to reduce the amount of groundwater withdrawn. Farmland's
proposed rainfall collection facilities include only those structures
which are a part of the mining, waste disposal, and water clarification
and recirculation plans (amounting to a nominal average of 10.6 cfs of
normal rainfall). In order to improve the collection of such water for
use in the facility processes, additional catchment areas (or reser-
voirs) could be provided in the main drainage areas of the mine property
to collect above normal flows. Such a reservoir system would probably
best operate with the normal level at elevation 65 ft, allowing an
additional 5 ft for emergency capacity for heavy rainfall periods. Such
a reservoir system could also receive clarified excess water from the
clay disposal area, should such release be necessary.
2.5.2.2 Environmental Considerations
Environmental Advantages. Use of surface water as the primary process
water source would preclude the lowering of the potentiometric surface
of the Floridan Aquifer. The use of reservoirs to store excess clari-
fied water from the recirculating system would also reduce the potential
for a direct discharge to Oak Creek or Hickory Creek.
In addition, such reservoirs would provide more than 1000 acres of
lacustrine habitat for associated aquatic plant and animal species.
Hardee County currently has no water bodies of this size. However,
long-term habitat and water quality characteristics of these reservoirs
are uncertain.
2-60
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Environmental Disadvantages. The most suitable sites for reservoir
construction on the Farmland site are in those areas which would be
preserved by Farmland's proposed mining plan (e.g., Oak Creek Islands).
The retainment of flood flows in these areas for impoundment
filling would also alter the characteristics of their downstream flood-
plains; and in the event of a dike failure, the stored surface water
would represent a hazard to downstream areas.
2.5.3 SUMMARY COMPARISON - PROCESS WATER SOURCES
The major environmental impact associated with obtaining process
water from groundwater withdrawal is the lowering of the potentiometric
surface of the Floridan Aquifer. However, this aspect of the mining
operation is thoroughly overseen by the Southwest Florida Water Manage-
ment District (SWFWMD) which is responsible for determining the per-
missible amounts of water to be withdrawn by all major users in the
SWFWMD region (which includes the Farmland site). The fact that Farm-
land has been granted a consumptive use permit by SWFWMD is judged to
represent their determination that the anticipated effect on the Flor-
idan Aquifer is acceptable. Given all other environmental consider-
ations relative to the two methods, groundwater withdrawal is the
environmentally preferable alternative.
2.6 WATER MANAGEMENT PLAN
The large amounts of water (72 mgd) required for the transport and
processing of phosphate matrix necessitate that a detailed water balance
be developed to help manage its use. Part of this plan must be the
capability to reduce the amount of water in the recirculating system
(e.g., during periods of heavy rainfall). Excess water could be removed
from the system by either discharging to surface waters or to a deep
aquifer (via connector wells). A general description of each water
2-61
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management plan alternative is presented below, followed by environ-
mental considerations. Lastly, a summary comparison is presented to
identify the environmentally preferable alternative.
2.6.1 DISCHARGE TO SURFACE WATERS (FARMLAND'S PROPOSED ACTION)
2.6.1.1 General Description
The above ground clay settling areas (Areas I and II), sand-clay
mix areas, and the mine recirculating water system of dams and spillways
constitute Farmland's water clarification facility. Seasonal changes in
rainfall and evaporation rates will affect the active water volume of
the mine water system. During the pre-filling of Settling Area I and
the initial years of mining, especially Phases I and II, the rainfall in
excess of evaporation during the rainy season will provide additions to
the system and help offset system losses. Conversely, during dry
periods the deficit due to evaporation will add to the system losses.
The system volume will aid in leveling out these seasonal changes.
Seasonal changes in rainfall and evaporation do not have a direct
effect on the water required to operate the mine system, since the
demands remain reasonably constant, with variations due mainly to mining
rates and clay content of the ore. Seasonal deficits in the mine water
system can occur, however, due to the following:
insufficient reservoir capacity to accumulate rainfall during the
wet season to offset evaporation losses during the dry season; and
insufficient catchment area to offset the deficit between rainfall
and evaporation rates.
The mine water system is designed to provide sufficient catchment
area and water storage volume to level out seasonal fluctuations in
supply by rainfall/evaporation and to prevent variations in groundwater
withdrawal rates, especially the need for increased groundwater with-
drawal during the dry season. The mine water balance (Figure 2-9)
indicates that during active mining and for average annual rainfall/
evaporation conditions, the 10-inch deficit in the main water system
2-62
-------
will be offset by catchment in the mining and reclamation areas (0.62
mgd). Excess accumulation will occur, however, as the total catchment
area increases.
Normally, there will be no discharge from the mine recirculating
water system, for retention areas will have sufficient surge holding
capacity to accommodate normal process flow and rainfall variations.
Water will be discharged only during periods of heavy rainfall. Farm-
land (1981) indicates that this discharge will occur during the months
of December-January and June-September and has requested that they be
permitted to discharge an annual average of 3.75 mgd to surface waters.
The primary discharge would be from the clear water pond to Hickory
Creek (Figures 2-10 and 2-11). The amount of water discharged at this
location would be about 1.24 mgd (annual average). The maximum flow
would be about 16 mgd. A second discharge point would be used for
occasional discharges from Settling Area IIA into Oak Creek. Farmland
is seeking a permit to discharge about 2.51 mgd to Oak Creek, which
includes both the amount discharged from the settling area as well as
runoff from previously mined areas.
2.6.1.2 Environmental Considerations
Environmental Advantages. Since all process water to be discharged will
first pass through active clay or sand-clay settling areas, contaminants
within this water should adsorb onto suspended clay particles in these
areas and be retained with the settled clays. Concentrations in waters
discharged to surface waters should therefore be minimized.
Environmental Disadvantages. Discharging excess water from the re-
circulating water system to surface waters would create the potential
for release of contaminants to the environment should these not be
removed by adsorbtion and settling of the waste clays.
In addition, the discharge of excess water into adjacent surface
waters would not mitigate for groundwater pumped to dewater mine pits or
as make-up water.
2-63
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2.6.2 USE OF CONNECTOR WELLS
2.6.2.1 General Description
Connector wells would be located around or ahead of the active mine
pit area to dispose of Surficial Aquifer water in a deeper aquifer. New
wells would have to be constructed as areas were readied for mining,
while those used previously would have to be capped once mining had been
completed. The volume of water disposed of would be equal to the mine
dewatering flow rate ahead of the active mine. This would be dependent
upon the amount of water available and the rate at which the dragline is
advancing. New wells would have to be constructed as the mining pro-
gressed or was initiated in a new block.
2.6.2.2 Environmental Considerations
Environmental Advantages. The use of connector wells would partially
mitigate the lowered head which will occur in the Upper Floridan Aquifer
as a result of pumping for mine pit dewatering by replenishing a portion
of the process water pumped from the Floridan Aquifer with water from
the Surficial Aquifer.
The use of connector wells would also decrease the net property
discharge by whatever amount the connector wells drained from the
advancing mine area. If this amount equalled the estimated rate of
Surficial Aquifer water into the mine pit (500 gpm), the average annual
discharge could be reduced by 0.72 mgd.
Environmental Disadvantages. The use of connector wells would provide
the potential for contamination of the higher quality water of deep
aquifers with lower quality water from the Surficial Aquifer. Para-
meters of concern would be phosphate, nitrate, and gross alpha levels.
Connector wells might also dispose of Surficial Aquifer water which
could otherwise be used in place of deep aquifer water.
2-64
-------
2.6.3 SUMMARY COMPARISON - WATER MANAGEMENT PLAN
While connector wells offer a means of dewatering the Surficial
Aquifer ahead of the mining operation while replenishing a portion of
the water pumped from the Floridan Aquifer for matrix processing,
potentials exist for degradation of water quality. Surficial Aquifer
water from the Farmland site was found to have consistently higher gross
alpha levels than water from the Floridan Aquifer. Additional para-
meters of concern are phosphorus, nitrate, and iron. In that the SWFWMD
granted Farmland a permit for the withdrawal of groundwater to meet
project needs without stipulating the use of connector wells, the
potentials for contamination are judged to outweigh the benefits of deep
aquifer recharge. In addition, the use of connector wells would not
eliminate the need to discharge in the event of heavy rainfall. There-
fore, discharge to surface waters is the environmentally preferable
alternative providing that the quality of the discharge is within
existing state and Federal water quality criteria and standards (see
Table 3-16).
2.7 RECLAMATION PLAN
2.7.1 FARMLAND'S PROPOSED RECLAMATION PLAN
2.7.1.1 General Description
Figure 2-6 shows the reclamation plan proposed by Farmland. The
general types of physical restoration which would be employed are as
follows:
• Sand-clay mix landfill.
• Crust development on clay settling areas.
• Sand tailings landfill.
• Land and lakes construction.
• Restoration of disturbed natural ground.
2-65
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Reclamation will proceed over the life of the mine, with the final
areas mined being reclaimed in the 24th year after operation begins
(Figures 2-26 through 2-31). Reclamation plans for specific areas of
the site are described in the following sections.
2.7.1.1.1 Sand-Clay Mix Areas
As indicated in Section 2.4.1, sand-clay mixing will create a
diverse land surface which Farmland proposes to reclaim in a variety of
ways. Most of the sand-clay mix areas will be filled so that they
should be suitable for a variety of agricultural uses after reclamation.
These areas, originally filled with sand and clay to 17-20 ft above
natural ground level, are expected to subside to a final elevation of
2-3 ft above natural ground level (Figure 2-32) . Farmland plans to
implement an experimental revegetation program on the first sand-clay
mix area that becomes available (Figure 2-33). The experimental plant-
ing program will include field crops, forage crops, forest trees, truck
crops, and citrus. A wetland revegetation experimental area is also
planned.
With the exception of the experimental area in Sand-Clay Mix Area
1, all upland reclaimed areas will initially be vegetated with forage
species. Most of these areas (2931 acres) will remain in such plantings
as serve as improved pasture acreage in future years (Figure 2-12).
Other areas will be planted in trees as they become stabilized. Strip
plantings of trees will be made, as shown in Figure 2-34, to divide the
areas planted as improved pasture (Figure 2-12). Thus they will serve
as aesthetic relief to the landscape, windbreaks for areas that are
being row cropped, shade areas for cattle, and travel corridors and
cover for wildlife. Mesic species will be planted on the overburden and
better-drained sand-clay soils, while more water-tolerant species will
be planted in the more poorly-drained sand-clay soils.
Farmland proposes to use special techniques to restore the area
through which the flow of Oak Creek and one of its northern tributaries
will be restored. After the mining of this area, levees approximately
2-66
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R24E R2SE
FIGURE 2-26. EXTENT OF MINE RECLAMATION - YEAR 4.
PROPERTY BOINDAIO
OITPARCKLINOT FARMLAND PROPERTY)
PRESERVED
P I RECLAMATION IN PROGRESS
pTTTi] RECLAMATION COMPLETE
ACTIVE MINING, WASTE DISPOSAL,
OR ANCILLARY FACILITIES
0 2,000 4.000
SCALE IN FEET
SOURCE: FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC., HARDEE COUNTY MASTER PLAN. JUNE 1979
2-67
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FIGURE 2-27. EXTENT OF RECLAMATION - YEAR 8.
PROPERTY BOLNDARY
OUTPARCEL (NOT FARMLAND PROPERTY)
PRESERVED
| | RECLAMATION IN PROGRESS
fi'm'j RECLAMATION COMPLETE
g~~] ACTIVE MINING, WASTE DISPOSAL.
OR ANCILLARY FACILITIES
SOURCE: FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC., HARDEE COUNTY MASTER PLAN, JUNE 1979
2,000 4,000
SCALE IN FEET
2-68
-------
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FIGURE 2-28. EXTENT OF RECLAMATION - YEAR 12.
PROPFRTV B(H
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SOURCE: FARMLAND INDUSTRIES. INC., HARDEE COUNTY MASTER PLAN. JUNE T979
2-69
-------
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PROPERTY BOUNDARY
Ol!TPARCEL (NOT FARMLAND PROPERTY)
PRESERVED
RECLAMATION IN PROGRESS
RECLAMATION COMPLETE
ACTIVE MINING. WASTE DISPOSAL.
OR ANCILLARY FACILITIES
2,000 4,000
SCALE IN FEET
SOURCE: FARMLAND INDUSTRIES. INC., HARDEE COUNTY MASTER PLAN, JUNE 1979
2-70
-------
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— PROPERTY BOUNDARY
^^3 OUTPARCEL (NOT FARMLAND PROPERTY)
P^3 PRESERVED
f 'j RECLAMATION IN PRCK1RESS
PTJJ RECLAMATION COMPLFTE
pTiiTTI ACTIVE MININC, VVASTF. DISPOSAL,
I'iii-''* OR ANCILLARY FACILITIES
0 2,000 4,000
SCALE IN FEET
SOURCE: FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC., HARDEE COUNTY MASTER PLAN, JUNE 1979
2-71
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MtllMMtHltMII
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2,000 4,000
SCALE IN FEET
SOURCE: FARMLAND INDUSTRIES. INC.. HARDEE COUNTY MASTER PLAN. JUNE 1979
2-72
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FIGURE 2-32.
CROSS-SECTIONAL VIEW OF SAND-CLAY LANDFILL SHOWING SURFACE SOIL CHARACTER
AND SUBSIDENCE OF LAND FILL BETWEEN SPOIL PILES.
SOURCE: FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC., DRI, JUNE 1979
-------
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FIGURE 2-33. EXPERIMENTAL PLANTING PATTERN IN SAND-CLAY MIX AREA 1 OF THE
FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC. MINE SITE.
SOURCE: FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC., DRI. JUNE 1979
2-74
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N5
I
UPLAND SPECIES
WATER-TOLERANT
SPECIES
UPLAND SPECIES
FIGURE 2-34 STRIP REFORESTATION AT A TYPICAL SAND-CLAY LANDFILL,
MADE AT RIGHT ANGLES TO THE SPOILING PATTERN.
SOURCE: FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC., DRI, JUNE 1979
-------
11 ft in height will be constructed around these areas, which will then
be filled with sand-clay mix to an average height of about 6 ft above
natural grade. In order to speed up the subsidence, and thereby allow
reclamation of these environmental restoration areas to proceed at a
more rapid pace, clays dredged from Settling Area I are planned to be
used in the sand-clay mix deposited here. Dredged clays will enter the
landfills at approximately 18 percent solids as opposed to 4 percent
solids for clays used in normal sand-clay landfills. The thickened
clays will promote more rapid consolidation of these landfills. Sub-
sidence will bring the special mix areas to near original grade on the
average, but greater subsidence where the sand-clay fill is the thickest
will result in the center of the filled mining cuts being slightly below
grade as shown in Figure 3-35. This gradually sloping land around the
protruding spoil piles will in effect create a broad swale approximately
150 ft wide and resembling a natural floodplain. Spoiling patterns will
run east-west in Special Mix 1 and north-south in Special Mix 2 so that
a meandering floodplain will be created for each of the restored creek
channels. The spoil piles will be graded and the entire area revege-
tated prior to introduction of flow-through water into the areas.
The reclamation sequence for sand-clay landfills is given in Table
2-1. Filling of sand-clay landfills will take from 1 to 2 years; in
general, 2 years will be required for subsidence and consolidation of
the landfills. The landfills should have undergone their initial period
of rapid subsidence in approximately this time and be sufficiently
stable so that the final stages of reclamation can then begin. Allowing
an additional 2 years for final grading and revegetation, the total time
required for complete reclamation of individual sand-clay landfills
should be about 5-6 years. Since reclamation of conventional clay
settling areas may require up to 10 years to complete, it is apparent
that the use of the sand-clay mix technique should lead to more rapid
restoration of disturbed land. The land form of the reclaimed sand-clay
mix areas should be a series of graded plateaus such as shown in Figure
2-36.
2-76
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MESIC TREE
PLANTINGS
HYDRIC
TREE
PLANTINGS
MARSH
HYDRIC
TREE
PLANTINGS
MESIC TREE
PLANTINGS
NATURAL GROUND LEVEL
FIGURE 2-35. REFORESTATION OF SPECIAL SAND-CLAY MIX AREAS 1 AND 2.
SOURCE: FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC., DRI, JUNE 1979
-------
Table 2-1. RECLAMATION SEQUENCE AND ACREAGE FOR SAND-CLAY LANDFILLS
ON THE FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC. MINE SITE.
Landfill*
Sand- Clay 1
Special Mix 1
Sand- Clay 2
Sand- Clay 3
Sand- Clay 4
Sand- Clay 5
Sand- Clay 6
Sand-Clay 7
Sand- Clay 8
Special Mix 2
Sand-Clay 9
Sand- Clay 10
Sand- Clay 11
Sand-Clay 12
Sand-Clay 13
Sand- Clay 14
Sand-Clay 15
Sand- Clay 16
Sand-Clay 17
Sand-Clay 18
Sand-Clay 19
Sand-Clay 20
Sand-Clay 21
Sand-Clay 22
Sand-Clay 23
Sand-Clay 24
Sand-Clay 25
TOTAL
Acreage
236
181
103
75
269
286
168
192
78
106
310
129
137
146
70
215
108
68
40
130
203
190
99
89
68
161
58
3915
Year of Filling
4-5
5-6
6-7
7
7-8
8-9
9-10
10-11
11
11
12
12
13
13
14
15
15
15-16
16
16
17
17-18
18-19
19
19
19-20
20
Year Reclamation
Completed
9
10
11
11
12
13
14
15
15
15
16
16
17
17
18
19
19
20
20
20
21
22
23
23
23
24
24
*See Figure 2-6 for Sand-Clay Mix Landfill Locations.
Source: Farmland Industries, Inc. (1979a).
2-78
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FIGURE 2-36. CROSS-SECTIONAL VIEW OF ADJOINING SAND-CLAY MIX RECLAMATION AREAS,
SOURCE: FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC., HARDEE COUNTY MASTER PLAN, JUNE 1979
-------
2.7.1.1.2 Clay Settling Area
When mining is complete, only one conventional clay setting area
(Settling Area II, covering 583 acres) will remain. By the end of
mining, this area will have been filled with clays to about 35 ft above
natural ground level.
The crust development technique will be used to reclaim this
settling area. When the area is deactivated, surface water will be
drawn off through the in-place spillways and a perimeter ditch will be
dug to establish initial drainage. As conditions permit, internal
drainage ditches will be installed with specialized equipment, such as
ditching plows pulled by low-ground pressure vehicles, to promote
further surface drying. Within 4 to 5 years, the drying, clays will
subside considerably in the settling area. When a crust of sufficient
stability to support machinery is formed, volunteer vegetation will be
cleared from the area. The retaining dam and any protruding spoil piles
will be pushed down to conform to slope requirements and to fill any
depressions persisting within the area. There are no further plans to
cover the clays with overburden since the clays are very fertile and
when properly managed, can be very productive agricultural soils. All
spillways will be removed and final drainage established through inter-
spoil swales. The area will then be revegetated with forage species to
complete reclamation. A period of 10 years has been allowed to complete
reclamation of this area.
2.7.1.1.3 Sand Tailings Fill
As shown in Figure 2-6, two small mined areas covering a total of
104 acres will be backfilled with tailings sand. Sand tailings will be
hydraulically transported from the flotation plant to the landfill
sites. The previously mined cuts will be filled to approximately
natural grade, and overburden from the protruding spoils will be graded
over the fill to an average depth of approximately 2 ft. The spoil cap
will provide the necessary soil fertility to support a good vegetative
cover. Tailings fill consolidates rapidly, and reclamation of these
areas should proceed at a rapid pace. After filling these areas with
2-80
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sand tailings, 2 years has been allotted to complete reclamation by
grading of spoils and revegetation with forest species.
2.7.1.1.4 Lake Areas
The reclamation plan includes the creation of lakes in three areas
shown in Figure 2-37. These consist of the clear water pool at the
beneficiation plant, the drainage system left for Hickory Creek, and the
depressions left as a result of the last 2 years of mining. These are
described in more detail in the following paragraphs.
Clear Water Pool. The pit created during the first year of operation
will serve as the plant clear water pool throughout the remaining life
of the mine. In mining this area, spoiling patterns will be utilized
that maximize the amount of volume available for below-grade water
storage. Initial water depths in the lake will average around 30 ft;
but over the 20-year life of the mine, sedimentation from turbid water
in the plant water system will reduce the average depth somewhat. When
mining is complete, the water level in the lake will be drawn down and
spoils from the margins of the lake graded into the void to conform to
slope requirements. This will form a littoral zone around the lake and
result in an average depth not exceeding 15 ft.
Hickory Creek. Mining in the present Hickory Creek channel in years 13
and 14 will be done so as to create a lake system through which Hickory
Creek will be rerouted. As shown in Figure 2-38, the upper portion of
this 140-acre area will consist of a series of finger lakes which form a
meandering channel for the creek. The lower portion of the lake system
will consist of an open lake about 600 ft wide and 3000 ft long created
by double spoiling the parallel mine cuts adjacent to this area. The
lake system will intercept the undisturbed portion of the Hickory Creek
channel at an elevation of approximately 65 ft and serve as the area's
outfall into the natural floodplain at this point, thus establishing the
water level in the entire lake system. Figure 2-39 provides a cross-
sectional view of the water and land surfaces for the lake system.
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FIGURE 2-37. AREAS OF WETLAND RESTORATION ON THE
FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC. MINE SITE.
HH LAKE AREAS
PROPERTY BOUNDARY
"Bffifa OUTPARCEL (NOT FARMLAND PROPERTY)
|V:.-.'J FRESHWATER MARSH *
t.::::v:3 LITTORAL ZONE
* (SWAMP PLANTINGS INCLUDED IN SOME AREAS)
0 2,000 4,000
SCALE IN FEET
SOURCE: FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC.. HARDEE COUNTY MASTER PLAN, JUNE 1979
2-82
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75
I ^ 65
5*55
9
45 h
SPOIL PILES
SECTION 2 SECTION 11
ORIGINAL GROUND ELEVATION
TOP OF LAKE ELEV. 65'
r- BOTTOM OF LAKE ELEV. 50
FILL AS NECESSARY
SECTION A-A'
DOUBLE SIDE CAST
SPOIL AREA
EXISTING CHANNEL
FIGURE 2-38. PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS OF THE LAKE SYSTEM TO BE CREATED BY RECLAMATION
IN SECTIONS 2 AND II, T35S, R24E OF THE FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC. MINE SITE.
SOURCE: FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC., DRI, JUNE 1979
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ao
i t
HORIZ.
IfMtl
I
oo
LAKE SURFACE -135'
WATER DEPTH-15'
LITTORAL
ZONE
50'
SECTION B-B1
FIGURE 2-39. PHYSICAL DESIGN CONCEPTS FOR FINGER LAKE RECLAMATION AREA IN
SECTION 2, T35S, R24E, OF THE FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC. MINE SITE,
SOURCE: FARMLAND INDUSTRIES. INC., DRI, JUNE 1979
-------
During reclamation of these lake areas, overburden from the spoils
in the finger lake portion of the area will be graded into the mine cuts
to (1) conform to slope requirements; (2) fill in the cuts to establish
a maximum water depth of 15 ft; and (3) form a 50-ft wide littoral zone
on one side of the lake as shown in Figure 2-39. In the open water lake
in the lower portion of the area, the double spoil piles on the east
side will be graded into the mine cut to form a 100-ft wide littoral
zone approximately 1-3 ft deep as shown in Figure 2-40. On the west
side of the mine cut, only a single spoil pile will be available to
provide overburden fill for the mine cut. Tailings sand will, there-
fore, be used to supplement the fill on this side of the mine cut in
order to establish a 12 to 1 slope out to a depth of 15 ft. When
reclamation is complete, the area will be approximately equally divided
between water and land surface.
Since the mining of this area includes the channel and floodplain
of Hickory Creek, raining and reclamation will be completed as rapidly as
possible. Mining of the area is planned to take place over a period of
slightly over 2 years, beginning in year 12 and ending early in year 14.
Physical and revegetative restoration of the area will require a period
of 2 years before the creek is rerouted through the system. The period
of actual downstream flow disruption will, therefore, have been kept to
slightly over 4 years.
Land and Lakes Area. The land and lakes area to be created during the
last 2 years of mining will be a 368-acre area previously occupied by
Settling Area I. Double spoiling patterns will be utilized in the
mining of this area in order to create a land and lakes area. Topog-
raphy in the area is such that inflow to the lakes will be from the
northwest, with lake outfalls potentially located in both the southwest
and southeast corners—so that they could discharge to a tributary of
Oak Greek or to Hickory Creek, respectively. As shown in Figure 2-41,
extensive littoral zones will be created by grading the overburden in
the vicinity of these outfalls. Weirs will establish and maintain the
lake outfall levels.
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40r
50 ' 100
HORIZ.
IfMtl
LAKE SURFACE - 600'
LITTORAL
ZONE
100'
TAILINGS FILL
c'
SECTION C-C'
FIGURE 2-40. PHYSICAL DESIGN CONCEPTS FOR THE OPEN LAKE RECLAMATION AREA IN
SECTION 11, T35S, R24E, OF THE FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC. MINE SITE,
SOURCE: FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC., DRI, JUNE 1979
-------
OUTFALL TO
f HICKORY CREEK
OUTFALL TO
OAK CREEK TRIBUTARY
LAND AREAS FORMED
FROM DOUBLE SPOIL PILES
FIGURE 2-41. PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS OF THE LARGE LAND AND LAKE AREA IN
SECTIONS 34 AND 35, T34S, R24E, OF THE FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, IMC. MINE SITE.
SOURCE: FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC., DRI, JUNE 1979
-------
All other spoil piles in this area will be graded into the mine
cuts to conform to slope requirements. Mining depths and the ground-
water table in the area are such that grading of spoils will achieve a
maximum water depth of about 15 ft. Reclamation in this area will
result in the creation of about equal amounts of land and water, and be
completed within 3 years after completion of mining. Land areas (about
70 acres) will be planted in trees, the species used being dependent
upon the prevailing soil drainage characteristics. Species such as bald
cypress and black gum will be planted along the waters edge.
2.7.1.1.5 Disturbed Natural Ground Area
When mining is complete, the beneficiation plant, entrance rail-
road, and other ancillary facilities will be dismantled. Only facil-
ities such as storage sheds and the plant entrance road will be retained
if it is determined that they will either be moved to new mine sites or
sold to scrap dealers. Materials such as concrete foundations that
cannot be salvaged will be used as landfill. The disturbed sites will
be graded, if necessary, to conform to slope requirements and revege-
tated with forage species.
2.7.1.2 Environmental Cons iderations
Environmental Advantages. The post-reclamation land area in agrarian
use should be similar to (or greater than) that found at present. In
addition, post-reclamation elevations and topography over much of the
site should not differ greatly from premining elevations and topography.
Sand-clay mixing will also provide advantages in that the mixed
snad-clay soils should be agronomically superior to either sand or clay
alone. Radiation levels should also be less than those normally en-
countered in clay soils alone.
Environmental Disadvantages. The proposed reclamation plan would
convert the majority of the site to an improved pasture/cropland type.
This type will not support a diversity of floral and faunal species.
The post-reclamation extent of the pine flatwoods/palmetto range type
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represents only 37 percent of the premining extent of this type.
Species affected by loss of this habitat would include the Eastern
indigo snake, a species considered "threatened" by the U.S. Department
of Interior.
2.7.2 CONVENTIONAL RECLAMATION
2.7.2.1 General Description
Conventional reclamation is reclamation associated with the sep-
arate disposal of sand and clay wastes (i.e., conventional sand and clay
waste disposal). Reclamation would consist of allowing a crust to form
over the more than 2500 acres of impounded clays and seeding these areas
with forage species, and creating extensive land and lakes areas in
those areas of the site not covered with impounded clays. The revege-
tation of these areas would likely consist of forage species plantings
on most land areas,, with forest tree plantings along the edges of the
lakes.
2.7.2.2 Environmental Considerations
Environmental Advantages. Conventional reclamation would result in the
creation of more lake habitat than will result from Farmland's proposed
reclamation plan. The techniques used for conventional reclamation have
been tested by the industry over the years so that this plan is also
operationally more proven than sand-clay mix reclamation. Areas not
covered with impounded clays would consist of reformed overburden and
sand tailings which can be worked relatively easily.
Environmental Disadvantages. Conventional reclamation would result in
the creation of about 2500 acres of impounded clays. Following crust
formation, this acreage would be suitable for rather limited use as
pasture. The waste clays which would form the "soil" of these areas
would also have radiological characteristics which would be less de-
sirable than a mixture of waste sand and clay. Radium-226 analysis of
samples from the Farmland site indicates that concentrations in the
waste clays will be on the order to 5-12 pCi/g, while the projected
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concentration of sand-clay mix (at 2.5:1) is on the order to 3-4 pCi/g.
Overburden samples from the Farmland site were also found to contain
radium-226 concentrations above those of the projected sand-clay mix
(ranging from 3 to 32 pCi/g).
2.7.3 NATURAL MINE CUT RECLAMATION
2.7.3.1 General Description
Natural mine cut reclamation would amount to leaving mined-out
areas in windrows, with sand-clay mix deposited between windrows. Mined
areas would be allowed to revegetate naturally, as has been the case in
many of the older central Florida mines. The resultant use of the
mined-out land would be largely for fish and wildlife habitat, with some
pastureland.
2.7.3.2 Environmental Considerations
Environmental Advantages. Since grading of the site would not be
required for natural mine cut reclamation, energy (fuel) savings would
be realized and air emissions (from heavy equipment) would be reduced.
In addition, the habitats which would develop as the mined areas
revegetated would be utilized by a variety of wildlife.
Environmental Disadvantages. Post-reclamation land use of the site
would result in less agricultural productivity than is currently avail-
able. Persons traversing the unreclaimed site may also unknowingly walk
over unstable, wet mine cuts—which would be dangerous.
2.7.4 SUMMARY COMPARISON - RECLAMATION
The reclamation plan proposed by Farmland is designed to provide
for the restoration of both agricultural and ecological productivity.
Both conventional reclamation and natural mine cut reclamation fail to
attain this balance—conventional reclamation favoring agricultural use
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and natural mine cut reclamation favoring wildlife use and energy
savings. Therefore, Farmland's proposed reclamation plan is considered
to be the environmentally preferable alternative.
2.8 MITIGATION MEASURES
This section presents mitigation measures not already included in
the proposed action or alternatives. These measures were developed from
inputs received from preparers of the various sections of the EIS.
2.8.1 GEOLOGY AND SOILS
Farmland's proposed mining method involves the casting of over-
burden the shortest distance possible, generally into an arc-shaped pile
in the mined-out pit. The resulting profile is that of relatively low
piles requiring less than a full swing of the dragline bucket. If
overburden were piled higher by increasing the casting distance, 11
percent more below ground volume would be available for clay disposal.
This would amount to a 4 ft lowering of the above ground profile of the
proposed Settling Area II (from 35 ft to 31 ft).
2.8.2 RADIATION
Farmland proposes to use "conventional spoiling" in the mining of
phosphate rock. This mining method involves placement of overburden in
piles such that the last material removed from above the matrix (where
radioactive materials in the overburden are usually at their highest) is
deposited on top of the spoils pile. A technique called "toe spoiling"
has recently been introduced, whereby overburden from near the interface
with the matrix is placed at the toe of the pile and covered with
overburden from upper strata. Use of toe spoiling would reduce the
radioactivity of the reclaimed surface soils.
Based on the predicted radioactivity of the reclaimed sand-clay mix
soils, gamma exposure levels are expected to meet or only slightly
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exceed the 10 yk/hr interim recommendation for gamma exposure levels at
new structure sites on Florida phosphate lands (EPA 1976). However, if
a 6 in. layer of low activity soil were placed over the reclaimed
surface, the soil component of the gamma radiation would be reduced by
more than a factor of 2.
Placement of 10 to 15 ft of clean overburden over Clay Setting Area
II, the only such area which will remain after mining is complete, would
reduce radiation emissions to about 3 percent of that which will be
emitted from this area if uncovered.
2.8.3 HYDROLOGY
Farmland proposes to use Surficial Aquifer water for pump seal
lubrication. If treated mine water were used for this purpose, the
withdrawals from the Surficial Aquifer would be decreased by 250 gpm
(.36 mgd).
Farmland proposes to mine over 1 mile of Hickory Creek's streambed
while its flow is diverted to Troublesome Creek, while about 4200 ft of
streambed below the area to be mined will be preserved. However, this
preserved area will be deprived of its normal flow when the upper area
is mined. If the flow were diverted around the active mine area into
the lower preserved section (rather than to Troublesome Creek), the
impact on the preserved section would be lessened.
Farmland proposes to mine adjacent to the lower preserved portion
of Hickory Creek discussed above. This area will be surrounded by
active mine cuts in years 12 and 13. The loss of baseflow resulting
from Surficial Aquifer dewatering would be minimized if open mine cuts
were present on only one side of the Hickory streambed at a given time.
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2.8.4 WATER QUALITY
No provision is made to monitor the quality of the Surficial
Aquifer in the area of sand-clay mix disposal areas. If observation
wells were installed in the vicinity of these areas, early detection of
any contamination would be possible and corrective measures could be
taken.
2.8.5 TERRESTRIAL ECOLOGY
Farmland proposes to reclaim the mine site such that forested
habitats (both reclaimed and preserved) will in some cases be separated
by unbroken areas of improved pasture. The impacts on terrestrial
ecology could be reduced if the reclamation plan provided for the
establishment of forested corridors between such areas on the reclaimed
mine site.
Farmland proposes to reclaim the mined areas through which Hickory
Creek currently flows as a lake system which will discharge to the
establishment of a littoral zone at the downstream end. This littoral
zone should be at least 500 ft wide and of a depth suitable for the
growth of emergent vegetation.
The indigo snake occupies a variety of habitats throughout its
range—from dry, sand pine-oak communities to moist tropical hammocks—
but is most suited to mesic environments. Although it commonly occurs
in sandhills and other xeric habitats, its survival in such areas is
possible only because gopher tortoise burrows or other subterranean
cavities are available for shelter. In the Hardee County region it has
been recorded most often from live oak hammocks, old fields, pine
flatwoods, and oak-pine sandhills. The proposed project will destroy
some wetland, oak hammocks and dry flatwoods habitats, thus reducing the
onsite habitat available to the indigo snake. The upland habitats
created as the result of the proposed reclamation plan will generally
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not be suitable for the indigo snake (Layne, et al. 1977). Conse-
quently, the long-term effect of Farmland's proposed reclamation plan on
the indigo snake will be a reduction in available upland habitat and
possible reduction in the species' population in the site region.
However, the impact of the Farmland project on this species might be
lessened if mitigative measures were undertaken by Farmland. A list of
such measures was developed following communications with experts on the
indigo snake (Mohler 1980; Palmer 1980; Speake 1980). It should be
noted, however, that the effectiveness of such measures in mitigating
the impacts of a mining project is unknown. The suggested measures are
as follows:
Inform workers of the importance of the indigo snake and request
that they not kill individuals they encounter on the site.
Develop a program whereby indigo snakes encounte.red in the work
area are captured for relocation to other areas of suitable habitat
in the site region.
Establish windrows similar to those created in clear cutting
operations. The cover created normally results in an increase in
rodent populations and is thus beneficial to predators such as the
indigo snake.
Maintain selected undisturbed areas in early stages of vegetative
succession using the technique of controlled burning. Such areas
appear to be favored by the indigo snake.
Protect the gopher tortoise population in the site area. The
presence of subterranean burrows such as those created by the
gopher tortoise is necessary for survival of the indigo snake in
dry uplands. Any measure that increases the gopher tortoise
population should be beneficial to the indigo snake.
Farmland's proposed reclamation plan includes the restoration of
398 acres of wetlands. However, this amounts to only 77 percent of the
Category 2 (514 acres) wetlands which will be destroyed by the proposed
mine plan. If 116 additional acres of wetlands were created during
reclamation, which Farmland (1979) indicates is possible, the Category
2 wetland acreage lost would equal that to be restored.
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2.8.6 AQUATIC ECOLOGY
Farmland's proposed action will result in a reduction of streamflow
in lower Hickory Creek. This reduction will have adverse effects on
aquatic biota occurring there. Several measures which would lessen the
flow reduction in this portion of the stream are described under Section
2.8.3, above. These would also serve to mitigate impacts on the aquatic
biota associated with this area.
2.8.7 SOCIOECONOMICS
It is outside the EPA's ability to require that the following
mitigation measures be made part of the project. They are, however,
provided as actions which Farmland could undertake at its discretion to
mitigate adverse socioeconomic effects.
Because a large percentage of the work force involved with con-
struction and operation of the proposed mine will commute from neigh-
boring counties, traffic levels on local roads will increase. In order
to minimize the effects of this increase, Farmland could encourage and
coordinate the formation of employee car pools.
Hardee County has relatively high unemployment for the region and
has had difficulty providing employment opportunities for local youth
entering the work force. While Farmland will be providing employment to
Hardee County residents, this benefit could be increased through their
participation in local vocational programs. Advance information con-
cerning occupational and skill needs could be provided to local voca-
tional schools so that individuals could obtain the skills that Farmland
will be seeking in the future.
2.9 THE NO ACTION ALTERNATIVE
The no action alternative by EPA would be the denial of an NPDES
permit for the proposed project. The effect of permit denial would be
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to precipitate one of three possible reactions on the part of Farmland:
(1) termination of their proposed project; (2) indefinite postponement
of the proposed project; or (3) restructuring of the project to achieve
zero discharge, for which no NPDES permit would be required.
2.9.1 TEEMINATION OF THE PROJECT
Termination of the planned project would allow the existing environ-
ment to remain as described in Section 3.0, and the gradual socioeconomic
and environmental trends would continue as at present. Specifically,
the meteorologic and noise characteristics are expected to remain as
described in Section 3.1.1. However, air quality changes may occur due
to emissions from new sources permitted in the region in the coming
years or because of changes in fuels used at existing sources. The
geologic features of the site would remain as described in Section
3.2.1, and the existing soils would continue to support the established
vegetation, grazing lands, and limited agricultural crop production.
Since the proposed project would cause intermixing of the nutrient
deficient surface soils with the relatively nutrient-rich deeper soils
and the placement of phosphate bearing clays at surface levels, the
long-term productivity of the site would be expected to increase. In
the absence of the project, this effect would not occur.
If the project were terminated, the Farmland site would remain in
its present radiological state, leaving outdoor gamma radiation and Rn-
222 flex at lower levels than would be the case after reclamation.
Accordingly, any potential adverse effects that might result from the
redistribution of subsurface radioactivity could not occur.
Termination of the project would also mean no appreciable changes
in the existing quantities of groundwater. The seasonal pumping of the
Floridan Aquifer by irrigation wells with the resultant drawdowns would
continue, while the hydrologic characteristics of the Surficial Aquifer
and baseflow to local surface waters would be expected to remain as at
present. Groundwater quality under this no action alternative will
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depend on future land uses. If land use patterns in the vicinity of the
site continue much as they are, then groundwater quality should also
remain essentially as it is today.
Under the no action alternative of project termination, no appre-
ciable changes in the existing surface water quantity are anticipated.
Surface water quality will depend on future land use. If land use
patterns in the immediate area remain fairly constant over the next few
decades, surface water quality should remain much as it is today. If
other phosphate mining and processing projects are permitted, selected
streams may show increases in IDS, sulfate, phosphate, nitrogen, and
fluorides. Slight increases in radiological concentrations may also be
expected.
If the proposed project is terminated, the aquatic environment with
its alternating hydroperiod and tolerant organisms will remain as it now
exists (Section 3.6.1); however, succession of marshes into bayheads,
etc., will in time modify some aquatic habitats. The terrestrial
ecology of the Farmland site should remain as now (Section 3.7.1), with
most of the site continuing to be used for agricultural purposes in-
cluding citrus groves, truck crops, and livestock grazing.
The no action alternative of project termination would have socio-
economic impacts on Hardee County and the central Florida region. The
generation of jobs with comparatively high income, anticipated under the
planned project, would not occur. Neither would the population influx
associated with relocating direct and indirect employment take place.
The $900,000 annual revenue, generated by the proposed project through
ad valorem taxation and redistribution of sales tax collected in Hardee
County, would not materialize. Present land uses would likely continue,
but it is probable that the property value of the site would drop
(relative to the value for phosphate mineable land).
This no action alternative would make the demand for transportation
facility capital improvements, such as paving the Fort Green-Ona Road,
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less urgent or unnecessary. It would eliminate an additional demand,
posed by the project, on an already inadequate housing situation and on
fire protection, police and medical services. While project termination
would prevent the expected increase in Hardee County expenditures to
provide such services, the revenue generated from the project is ex-
pected to exceed expenditures. Termination of the project would also
preclude the generation of about $2.4 million a year in severance tax,
of which 50 to 75 percent would go to the State General Revenue Fund and
the remainder to the Land Reclamation Trust Fund and the Florida In-
stitute of Phosphate Research.
Termination of the project would mean that no known or unknown
archaeological or historic sites would be destroyed by the proposed
mining. The total of 10 historic sites and 19 archaeological sites
recorded for the site would likely remain undisturbed. However, all of
the known archaeological sites are reported as disturbed lithic scatter
sites and none of the historic sites is considered historically significant.
The proposed construction, operation, and reclamation of the mine
site would create a variety of moderate to strong negative visual
impacts. Without the project these would not occur.
Lastly, the no action alternative of no mining project on the
Farmland site would mean the approximately 40 million tons of phosphate
matrix would not be recovered in the short term (the next 20 years).
This non-renewable resource would accordingly be unavailable for fer-
tilizer manufacture, and Farmland's 1/2 million farmer-owners would be
subject to increased uncertainty in obtaining a supply of fertilizer to
meet their agricultural needs. Project termination would also result in
a loss of considerable project investment by the corporation.
While the 40 million tons of phosphate resource would not be
recovered in the short term, they would remain as unmined phosphate
reserves. As discussed further in Section 5.1, the possible depletion
of U.S. phosphate reserved have become a matter of concern. The U.S.
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Bureau of Mines has predicted that high grade phosphate reserves will be
exhausted by 2010. With depletion of reserves and other restrictions
reducing available supplies of phosphate rock, fertilizer supplies may
become strategically important to the U.S. in the next century. There-
fore, denial of the permit could mean that the site's phosphate would be
conserved and retained as a national resource, while simultaneously
appreciating in value to Farmland.
2.9.2 POSTPONEMENT OF THE PROJECT
If EPA were to deny Farmland's NPDES permit application, the
project might be postponed for an indefinite period of time and then
successfully pursued by either Farmland or another mining company. This
might be expected to occur when, as described above, high grade phos-
phate reserves are depleted and the resource retained on the Farmland
site becomes extremely valuable strategically as well as economically.
An adverse effect resulting from postponement of the project would be
the delay of socioeconomic benefits to the county and state in the form
of job opportunities, payroll and taxes. Farmland would be adversely
affected in that its capital investment could not be realized for an
indef ini te time.
On the other hand, important benefits could result from project
postponement. Experimentation and research are ongoing in the areas of
phosphate recovery efficiency, waste sand and clay disposal, recla-
mation, and wetlands restoration and creation. Technological advances
could occur in these areas during the period of postponement which would
allow a much improved overall project.
2.9.3 ACHIEVING A ZERO DISCHARGE
If EPA denies the NPDES permit, Farmland could still execute a
mining project provided the project could be performed with zero dis-
charge to surface waters. Under zero discharge conditions, neither an
NPDES permit nor an Environmental Impact Statement would be required.
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Achieving zero discharge would be extremely difficult, if not impos-
sible, and would most likely require significantly increased surface
impoundment for storage of water. The problems occurring with increased
surface impoundment would include increased dike heights, probable
infringement on presently designated preserved areas, a less desirable
reclamation plan, and more limited post-reclamation land use potential.
It should be noted that although the EIS process would no longer be
involved in scrutinizing these changes (should zero discharge be achieved),
nevertheless the applicant's Development Order approved through the
Florida DRI process, would have to be modified and any changes approved
by the county and state.
2.10 EPA'S PREFERRED ALTERNATIVES, MITIGATING MEASURES, AND
RECOMMENDED ACTION
The environmentally preferable alternative, EPA's preferred alter-
native, and Farmland's proposed action (including mitigating measure
presented as part of the proposed action) all coincide with respect to
the following project components.
Mining Method (dragline)
Matrix Processing (conventional)
Waste Sand and Clay Disposal (sand-clay mix)
Process Water Sources (groundwater withdrawal)
Water Management Plan (discharge to surface waters)
Reclamation (combination of sand-clay mix landfill, crust
development on clay settling areas, sand tailings landfill,
lakes construction and restoration of disturbed ground—
included in this plan are preservation of 992 acres of wet-
lands and restoration of 398 acres of wetlands).
Regarding matrix transport, the environmentally preferable alter-
native identified in the EIS is conveyor transport; however, technical
problems associated with this alternative make it infeasible at this
time. Therefore, EPA considers matrix transport by the conventional
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slurry matrix method the only environmentally acceptable alternative
capable of meeting the applicant's needs.
In addition to identifying the environmentally preferable alter-
natives, EPA1 s assessment has focused on developing mitigating measures,
not already a part of the proposed action, which could minimize adverse
impacts of the project. These are discussed in Section 2.8 of the EIS.
EPA has determined that most of these measures should be incorporated
into the proposed project. Specifically, EPA recommends that:
• Overburden be piled such that the volume available for below
ground waste disposal is maximized.
• "Toe spoiling" be used to place leach zone material at depth
in mined areas—reducing the radioactivity of reclaimed
surface soils.
• Hickory Creek not be diverted to Troublesome Creek when the
stream channel of the former is mined, but rather divert the
flow to the preserved portion of Hickory Creek downstream of
the mine area.
• Mining in the vicinity of lower Hickory Creek be scheduled
such that open pits exist adjacent to only one side of the
preserved portion at a given time.
• The acreage to be reclaimed as forest habitat be increased by
planting additional areas of the mine site so as to provide
corridors for wildlife movement between reclaimed and pre-
served areas.
• A littoral zone be established at the downstream end of the
lake system proposed in the reclamation of the mined area
through which Hickory Creek currently flows. This littoral
area shall be at least 500 ft wide and at a depth suitable for
the establishment of emergent vegetation, providing 7 to 10
acres of marsh community.
• The acreage to be reclaimed as freshwater marsh or swamp be
increased by 116 acres so that the acreage of Category 2
wetlands lost by the mining operation is totally restored by
reclamation.
• A program to reduce impacts on the indigo snake, a threatened
species, which occurs on the site, be implemented (see Section
2.8.5).
• Monitoring of the quality of the Surficial Aquifer in the
vicinity of sand-clay mix disposal areas be done through the
life of the mine.
2-101
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Mitigation measures not recommended by EPA are the capping of waste
disposal areas with low activity overburden and the use of treated mine
water to meet pump seal requirements. While environmental impacts might
be reduced by the capping of waste disposal areas, this is considered
impractical on the scale of the proposed mine—both for economic and
technical reasons. The withdrawal of water from the Surficial Aquifer
to supply pump seal requirements represents only 6 percent of the
minimum groundwater withdrawal required for the project. In addition,
water will be withdrawn (in most instances) from areas which will
eventually be mined—totally destroying the Surficial Aquifer itself, at
least in the short term. Therefore, the economic costs and technical
difficulties which treatment of mine water would pose to Farmland are
not considered justified.
In order to make its determination regarding the NPBES permit
application for the Farmland project, EPA has developed a comparison
between (1) Farmland's Proposed Action; (2) EPA's preferred alternatives
and mitigating measures; and (3) the no action alternative of permit
denial by EPA, which could lead to termination of the project, post-
ponement of the project, or modification of the project such that a
NPDES permit would not be required (i.e., achieve zero discharge). This
analysis is presented in Table 2-2.
After careful evaluation of these alternatives, EPA's proposed
action is to issue the NPDES permit to Farmland. The project authorized
by the permit should be Farmland's proposed action, which is the sum of
EPA's preferred alternatives; and shall incorporate all the mitigating
measures identified as part of Farmland's proposed action (see Page
2-16) as well as all the mitigating measures recommended by EPA in this
section.
2.11 REFERENCES
Cape, J.J. 1979. Data on File at Woodward-Clyde Consultants, Clifton,
New Jersey.
2-102
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Table 2-2. COMPARISON OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS OF THE ALTERNATIVES.
Farmland's Proposed Action
Air Quality, Minor increases in fugitive
Meteorology, dust emissions and emissions
and Noise from internal combustion
engines; minor emissions
of volatile reagents; in-
creased noise levels in
the vicinity of operating
equipment.
Geology and Disruptions of the surface
Soils soils and overburden strata
over the mine site; deple-
tion of 40 million tons of
phosphate rock resources;
creation of a reclaimed
soil material which should
be superior to existing
soils.
Radiation Disruption of the natural
distribution of radioactive
material within the over-
burden and phosphate matrix;
increased radiation levels
from reclaimed surfaces.
EPA'S Preferred Alternatives
and Mitigating Measures
Same as Farmland's proposed
action.
The No Action Alternative
Same as Farmland's proposed
action, except that the
height of the remaining
waste clay impoundment could
be reduced by about 4 feet
by piling overburden to
greater heights.
Same as Farmland's proposed
action, except that reclaimed
surface soils would contain
less radioactive material
because of toe spoiling.
Termination
No change in
meteorology &
noise levels
present; possi-
ble air quality
changes from
other sources.
No change in
geology; no
change in si te
soils (i.e.,
increased pro-
ductivity) ;
preservation of
40 million tons
of phosphate
rock reserves.
No change in
radiation
characteristics
of the site.
Postponement
Same as Farm-
Achieve Zero Discharge
Same as Farmland's
land's proposed proposed action.
action.
Possible in- Increased dike heights,
creased phos- and water storage capa-
phate recovery city; probable infringe-
and more effec- ment on preserved areas;
tive sand-clay less desirable recla-
mix disposal, mation plan.
reclamation,
and wetlands
restoration.
Same as Farm-
land's proposed
action.
Probable increase in
area covered with waste
clays—the reclaimed
material having the
highest radioactivity
levels.
Groundwater Withdrawal of groundwater
from the Floridan Aquifer at
an average rate of 8.83 mgd;
lowering of Surficial Aquifer
in the vicinity of active
mine pits; possible local
contamination of Surficial
Aquifer adjacent to sand-
clay mix disposal areas.
Surface Water Disruption of surface water
flows from the mine site;
minor reduction in flows
following reclamation;
degradation of water
jjuality due to discharges
from the mine water system.
Aquatic Destruction of aquatic habi-
Ecology tats on the mine site;
aquatic habitat modifica-
tions due to reduced sur-
face water flows and
addition of contaminants
to creeks flowing from
the site.
Terrestrial Destruction of terrestrial
Ecology habitats and loss of indi-
viduals of some species on
the mine site; creation of
modified habitats following
reclamation.
Socioeconomics Generation of jobs with com-
paratively high incomes; ad
valorem and sales tax revenue
for Hardee County; severence
tax revenue for the state,
Land Reclamation Trust Fund,
and Florida Institute of
Phosphate Research; some
population influx to Hardee
County; increased demands
for housing, transportation,
fire protection, police,
and medical services.
Same as Farmland's proposed
action.
No change in Possible reduc- Same as Farmland's pro-
existing ground- tion in ground- posed action.
water quantity water withdrawals
and quality. because of more
effective de-
watering of waste
materials.
Same as Farmland's proposed
action, except that flow would
be maintained in lower Hickory
Creek, instead of increasing
flow in Troublesome Creek;
and there would be reduced
loss of baseflow to Hickory
Creek in years 12-13.
Same as Farmland's proposed
action, except that the impacts
on aquatic biota in Hickory
Creek will be lessened by the
continuation of flow through
its preserved lower portion.
Same as Farmland's proposed
action, except that the wild-
life habitat on the reclaimed
mine site will be more exten-
sive (both marsh and forest) .
Same as Farmland's proposed
action.
No change in
surface water
quantity; sur-
face water
quality would
be dependent
upon future land
uses in the site
area.
No change in
existing
aquatic
ecology.
No change in
existing
terrestrial
ecology.
Loss of jobs
which would be
generated by
the project;
loss of tax
revenue for
Hardee County
and the State;
less demand for
transportation,
housing, fire
protection,
police and medi-
cal services;
continuation of
phosphate rock
market uncer-
tainties for
Farmland and a
loss of their
investment.
Same as Farm-
land's proposed
action.
Same as Farm-
land's proposed
action.
Possibly more
effective
reclamation
and wetlands
restoration.
Continuation of
phosphate rock
market uncer-
tainties for
Farmland and
potential in-
creased project
costs; possible
improvement in
supply/demand
for housing in
Hardee County.
Elimination of surface
water quality impacts
resulting from discharge
from mine water system;
increased probability of
dike failure impa_c£s_.
Elimination of habitat
modification resulting
from discharge from mine
water system; increased
probability of dike
failure impacts.
Probable creation of in-
creased reclaimed land
areas (waste clays) of
limited use (e.g.,
pasture).
Same as Farmland's pro-
posed action.
2-103
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Farmland Industries, Inc. 1979. Development of Regional Impact Appli-
cation for Development Approval, Phosphate Mining and Chemical
Fertilizer Complex, Hardee County, Florida.
Farmland Industries, Inc. 1979. Master Mine Plan Phosphate Mining and
Beneficiation, Hardee County, Florida. Prepared by Armac Engi-
neers; J.C. Dickinson; Environmental Science & Engineering, Inc.;
P.E. LaMoreaux & Associates, Inc.; and Zfellars-Williams.
Farmland Industries, Inc. 1981. Supplemental Data Provided to
Woodward-Clyde Consultants by Farmland Industries, Inc.
Layne, N.J., J.A. Stalkup, and G.E. Woolfender. 1977. Fish and Wild-
life Inventory of the Seven-County Region Included in the Central
Florida Phosphate Industry Areawide Environmental Impact Study.
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Washington, D.C.
Mohler, P. 1980. Personal Communication; April 23, 1980. Game and
Freshwater Fish Commission, Gainesville, FL.
Palmer, D. 1980. Personal Communication; April 23, 1980. U.S. Fish
and Wildlife Service, Jacksonville, FL.
Speake, D. 1980. Personal Communication; April 23, 1980. Alabama
Cooperative Wildlife Research Unit, University of Alabama.
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. 1976. Florida Phosphate Lands,
Interim Recommendations for Radiation Levels. Federal Register
41 (123-June 24).
2-104
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3.0
THE AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT AND
ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES OF THE ALTERNATIVES
The proposed mining and processing of phosphate rock at the Farm-
land site and subsequent reclamation of disturbed land will result in
impacts on the existing environment. The affected environment and
environmental consequences of the alternative methods of accomplishing
the identified project goals are presented in this section. The dis-
cussion is arranged by environmental discipline and project component
(e.g., mining, matrix transport) so that the alternative methods for any
given component can be examined to an equal degree, thus providing a
basis for comparison. Only those project components having impacts
relating to a given discipline are discussed under the discipline
headings. The first alternative discussed under each component is the
no action alternative, followed by the impacts of Farmland's proposed
action and other relevant alternatives.
Under the no action alternative, it is assumed that Farmland would
not proceed with the construction/operation of the proposed facilities,
and that the site would remain as is for the foreseeable future. It
should be noted, however, that the site's phosphate reserves represent a
value which may be sought through another proposed action (by Farmland
or another phosphate company) at some future date.
3-1
-------
The action alternatives are comprised of various methods by which
Farmland's project goals could be met. These methods are grouped by
project components as follows:
Project Component
Alternative Methods
Mining
Matrix Transport
Matrix Processing
Waste Sand and Clay Disposal
Process Water Sources
Water Management Plan
Reclamation Plan
Dragline Mining
Dredge Mining
Bucketwheel Mining
Slurry Transport
Conveyor Transport
Truck Transport
Conventional Matrix Processing
Dry Matrix Processing
Sand-Clay Mixing
Conventional Sand and Clay Disposal
Groundwater Withdrawal
Surface Water Impoundment
Discharge into Surface Waters
Use of Connector Wells
Farmland's Proposed Reclamation Plan
Conventional Reclamation
Natural Mine Cut Reclamation
3.1 AIR QUALITY. METEOROLOGY, AND NOISE
3.1.1 THE AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT
3.1.1.1 Meteorology
The Farmland site is located in west central Florida, which has a
semitropical climate. Weather conditions are greatly influenced by the
area1s latitude and by the relatively warm coastal waters surrounding
the state. The project site is subject to annual variations in both
temperature and precipitation; however, analysis of the data obtained
from surrounding stations indicates that the area sustains two general
seasonal patterns (winter and summer). Summers are hot and humid;
extremely high temperatures are rare due to convective cloud activity
and frequent afternoon thunderstorms. Winters are generally mild, with
3-2
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periodic invasions of cool to cold air from the north. Rainfall is
abundant, averaging approximately 140 cm (55 inches) for the year. The
heaviest rainfall occurs in June, July, August, and September. Very
heavy rainfall amounts are associated with tropical storms and hurri-
canes which occasionally pass through the area during the late summer
and fall months. The storms may also cause wind and water damage to
crops and buildings. The following paragraphs provide a more detailed
discussion of temperature, precipitation, humidity,, wind, and other
meteorological parameters characterizing local and regional climatic
conditions.
Temperature. The average annual temperature is approximately 22.5°C (72
to 73°F). The monthly averages range from 16.5°C (62°F) in the winter
(January) to 27.8°C (82°F) in the summer (August). Winters are pleasant
and characterized by bright warm days and cool nights. Temperatures
during the winter are seldom severe; however, major cold waves do
overspread the area, occasionally bringing temperatures down to the
twenties (°F). Temperatures of -6.1°C (21°F) were recorded at Wauchula
during cold waves in December 1962 and January 1981. Frost conditions
vary considerably between low and high ground locations. Although the
total incidence of freezing temperature is low, a single occurrence
lasting more than a few hours can severely damage crops. In a study
conducted by Bradley (1974), 17 freezing occurrences were reported at
Lakeland between 1931 and 1950. Forty-one occurrences were reported at
Arcadia (13 miles southwest of the project site) during the same period.
During the summer season the maximum temperature ranges between the high
eighties and mid-nineties, while minimum temperatures usually drop to
the low seventies (°F). The maximum temperature reported at Wauchula
was 40°C (104°F), while a maximum of 38°C (101°F) was reported at both
Tampa and Lakeland. Most afternoon temperatures are moderated by
thundershowers; temperatures frequently plunge from the mid-nineties to
the low seventies or high sixties (°F) in a matter of minutes during one
of these thundershowers.
3-3
-------
Precipitation. Rainfall in the Farmland site area is abundant, aver-
aging 137 to 139 on (54 to 55 inches). Seasonal variations are apparent
from the data; the heaviest rainfall occurs during the months of June,
July, August, and September, with an average of between 18 to 23 cm (7
to 9 inches) falling during these months. November and December, the
driest months, average less than 5 cm (2 inches). Occasional tropical
storms serve to increase the late summer and early fall amounts, but the
frequency of these storms is low and they have little effect on the
long-term average annual rainfall. Presented below are maximum precipi-
tation amounts projected for the project site (point precipitation) for
24-hr periods and specific recurrence intervals computed using statis-
tical procedures outlined by Hershfield (1961) and Miller (1964). These
data appear to be consistent with available long-term data for the area.
Recurrence Interval
1 yr 5 yrs 10 yrs 25 yrs 50 yrs 100 yrs
Maximum 24-hour Point
Precipitation (in.) 4.0 6.5 7.8 8.9 9.0 11.0
It is important to note also that the annual average is a statis-
tical summary of precipitation data collected over a period of 30 years
or more. Considerable variations can occur from year-to-year or over an
extended period of time. For example, during the period 1964 through
1975, precipitation appears to be generally below normal for the project
area, with a 1- or 2-year exception (Mississippi Chemical Corporation
1976). Cyclic patterns and significant variations from the "normal" are
evident from these data.
Humidity and Fog. As would be expected in an area of high rainfall and
subtropical temperatures, central Florida's humidity also is moderate to
high. The highest humidity usually occurs around* dawn, with the lows
occurring in the early afternoon. Associated with the humidity is the
occurrence of ground fog, which is observed most often during the winter
(Bradley 1974). Most heavy fog dissipates rapidly after sunrise and is
gone before noon.
3-4
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Wind Direction and Speed. Windspeeds at the Farmland site are moderate
(i.e., 7 to 12 mph) in the cooler months and light (i.e., 0 to 4 mph) in
the summer. The prevailing directions are from the NW and SE 45 degree
segments. Tampa data (1960-1964) and onsite wind data do not differ
excessively, but Tampa winds are slightly stronger and are more pre-
dominantly from the east. An annual windrose for Tampa is presented in
Figure 3-1.
While data from nearby cities such as Tampa and Lakeland can be
used to generally describe the wind speed/direction variation expected
at the Farmland site, data have been presented by the IFAS of the
University of Florida (IFAS 1980) which suggest that important data are
not included in these data bases, specifically, the occurrence of low
wind speeds (<2.3 miles/hr). These data are not available because the
stall speed of the Tampa anemometer is 2.3 miles/hr. It is the National
Weather Service's policy to code all winds less than 2.3 miles/hr as
calm, and to ignore the direction of winds less than 2.3 miles/hr. The
IFAS report indicates that it is these winds that would cause pollutants
trapped by an inversion to drift slowly in the stable layer and accumu-
late over a relatively small area.
3.1.1.2 Mr Quality
The major industrial sources of pollutants in the region are from
electric utilities and the phosphate industry. Among the primary
pollutants associated with the phosphate industry are S02, TSP, and
insoluble fluorides. EPA (1978a) reports that these result from the
following phosphate industry activities:
"• SO originates primarily from the burning of sulfur containing
fossil fuels and the manufacture of sulfuric acid from ele-
mental sulfur (Pedco 1976a; EPA 1977).
• TSP is generated by fuel-burning, drying, grinding, and
material transport, as well as by some stages of mining (Pedco
1975; 1976a, 1976b).
• Fluorides arise from various chemical processes, drying and
calcining, fluoride removal for feed preparation, and gypsum
and cooling-water ponds (ESE 1977a; Tessitore 1975; 1976)."
3-5
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WINDSPEED
IN KNOTS
Oto3
4 to 6
7 to 10
11 to 16
17 and UP
Outer limit of white area
indicates total percent of all
winds from given direction.
FIGURE 3-1. ANNUAL WINDROSE FOR TAMPA, FLORIDA; 1960-64.
SOURCE: WOODWARD-CLYDE CONSULTANTS, 1981
3-6
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EPA (1978a) summarizes point and area sources emissions over a
seven county area in west central Florida. From these data it is noted
that Hillsborough point sources are dominated by the power industry,
while Polk County point sources are dominated by the phosphate industry.
Emission sources in Manatee County are low to moderate (with some
utility and phosphate industry activity), while emission sources in the
surrounding Counties of Charlotte, DeSoto, Hardee, and Sarasota are
relatively insignificant. In the industrial counties (Polk and Hills-
borough) point sources dominate; for the other five counties, area
sources dominate.
The Farmland site is quite distant from existing sources and is
well ventilated. Measured SO , total suspended particulate, and par-
ticulate fluoride ground-level concentrations at the Farmland site are
presented in Table 3-1. The maximum concentrations of these pollutants
3 3
measured at the Farmland site were 157 yg/m (3-hr), 74 yg/m (24-hr),
3
and 0.40 yg/m , respectively.
3.1.1.3 Noise
Ambient noise levels were measured at six locations in the vicinity
of the Farmland site in September 1979 and January 1980 (Woodward-Clyde
Consultants 1981). From day and night A-weighted (Leq) sound levels
determined for each location, day-night average sound levels (Ldn) were
computed. The L is the primary measure of a noise environment that
affects a community over an entire 24-hr day. The highest L^ value
determined (73.8 db[A]) was from sounds associated with traffic on
Highway 663 (south of the site) and nearby farming activities. Rela-
tively high sound levels (70-71 db[A]) were also recorded along Route 64
east of Ona due to sounds from traffic and nearby residences. At loca-
tions distant from roads and residences, Ldn values were generally 40-60
db(A).
3-7
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Table 3-1. MEASURED* SULFUR DIOXIDE, TOTAL SUSPENDED PARTICIPATE, AND
PARTICULATE FLUORIDE GROUND-LEVEL CONCENTRATIONS AT THE
FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC. MINE SITE.
Number of Measured Concentrations „
Parameter Observations (Arithmetic Mean Values in yg/m )
Sulfur Dioxide 7122** 3.48
Total Suspended
Particulate (24-hr) 192*** 24-32
Particulate
Fluoride (24-hr) 175**** 0.03-0.05
*Measurements using standard operating procedures meeting the PSD
requirements as described in 40 CFR 58, Appendix B.
**Data from one (1) Meloy 5A185-2A continuous SO analyzer during the
period January 15, 1979 - January 28, 1980.
***Data from four (4) high volume total suspended particulate matter
samples over the period January 15, 1979 - January 31, 1980.
****Data from particulate samples collected by four (4) high volume total
suspended particulate matter samples over the period January 15, 1979
January 10, 1980.
3-8
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3.1.2 ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES OF THE ALTERNATIVES
3.1.2.1 The No Action Alternative
Under the no action alternative the meteorologic and noise charac-
teristics of the site would likely remain as described in Section 3.1.1.
However, air quality changes may occur because of emissions from new
sources which may be permitted in the region in years to come, or
because of changes in fuels used at existing sources.
3.1.2.2 The Action Alternatives, Including the Proposed Action
3.1.2.2.1 Mining
Dragline Mining (Farmland's Proposed Action). The draglines used in the
proposed mining operation would be electrically powered and thus would
not increase combustion emission levels. Some increase in ambient TSP
levels may occur as a result of the handling of overburden and matrix by
mining equipment. This should be minimal because of the wet nature of
these materials.
Fugitive dust emissions in the mining area will be minimized by
maintaining a vegetative cover on all reserve land until mining is
imminent. In the interim between land clearing and mining, some land
will be exposed and subject to activity that may generate fugitive dust
emissions. Between 50-200 acres will likely be in this category at any
given time. Fugitive dust emissions generated from such areas should be
comparable to dust emissions from grove cultivation and other existing
agricultural operations. If open burning is conducted, particulate
matter, nitrogen oxides, sulfur dioxide, carbon monoxide, and hydro-
carbons will be emitted. However, because the vegetation on the por-
tions of the site which are to be cleared is relatively sparse very
little burning will be required.
Noise levels in the vicinity of active mining areas will increase
slightly. L values of 65-70 db(A) may occur near (200 ft from)
clearing operations. Sound pressure levels of 56-62 db(A) have been
3-9
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recorded at similar distances from operating draglines. During most of
the 20-year mining period, noise levels in the Town of Ona will not be
increased by dragline operation. Some increase may occur during years
16 and 19, when the mining operation is closest to Ona.
Bucketwheel Mining. As in the case of draglines, bucketwheel excavators
would typically be electrically powered; thus, air emissions would not
be increased. There would likely be more handling of overburden on con-
veyor systems, etc., so that TSP emissions might be greater than for
draglines. Fugitive emissions from cleared areas and emissions from
open burning would be similar to those for dragline mining.
Because of the additional handling equipment needed, noise levels
from bucketwheels would probably be greater than would be experienced
using draglines.
Dredge Mining. It is assumed that dredges would also be electrically
powered; however, they would likely produce lower TSP levels than either
draglines or bucketwheels because of the slurry handling of overburden
and matrix. Noise levels would likely be similar to those expected for
dragline mining.
Fugitive emissions from cleared areas and emissions from open
burning would be similar to those for dragline mining.
3.1.2.2.2 Matrix Transport
Slurry Transport (Farmland's Proposed Action). Matrix would be pumped
in a water slurry from the active mine pit to the beneficiation plant.
The pumps used would be electrically powered; thus no significant
emissions should result.
Data presented by EPA (1979a) indicate that the noise levels asso-
ciated with matrix pumping are minor when considered in combination with
3-10
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the nearby dragline. A peak SPL of 62 db(A) was recorded for a dragline
alone, as compared to a peak of 68* db(A) for dragline and slurry pit
pump together.
Conveyor Transport. Matrix would be placed on an electrically-powered
belt conveyor for transport from the active mine pit to the benefici-
ation plant. TSP levels near the conveyor would likely be higher than
if slurry pumping were used.
Noise levels associated with conveyor transport would be greater
than for slurry pumping. Woodward-Clyde Consultants (1981) indicates
that Ldn levels on the order of 70 db(A) could occur at a distance of
125 ft from such an operating conveyor. Levels on the order of 60 db(A)
would occur at 1250 ft. This noise would also occur along the total
length of the conveyor.
Truck Transport. Matrix would be transported over haul roads to the
beneficiation plant in large diesel-powered trucks. This would result
in higher TSP as well as combustion emissions than either slurry trans-
port or conveyor transport.
Noise levels associated with truck transport would also be sub-
stantially higher than for slurry pumping. The noise produced would be
more intermittent than for conveyor transport, but could be of a higher
level when it occurs (i.e., when a truck would pass by).
3.1.2.2.3 Matrix Processing
Conventional Matrix Processing (Farmland's Proposed Action). Conven-
tional matrix processing methods utilize flotation reagents in order to
separate waste materials from the phosphate rock. Since some of these
reagents are volatile (e.g., kerosene), local increases in their atmos-
pheric levels are expected.
*Included outside noises as well.
3-11
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Noise levels associated with a conventional matrix processing plant
are presented by EPA (1979a). At a distance of 225 ft, the average SPL
was determined to be 72 db(A). The anticipated L value for the oper-
ating plant is expected to be on the order of 60 db(A) at a distance of
900 ft (Woodward-Clyde Consultants 1981). This will result in a contri-
bution of about 40 db(A) to the composite L, noise level at the Town of
an
Ona.
Dry Matrix Processing. Dry processing would require that matrix be
dried, crushed, and sized (by air separation and/or electrostatic
separation). This would require the burning of fuel (for drying) and
result in elevated air pollutant (e.g., TSP) levels in the area.
Noise levels associated with a dry matrix processing plant are
expected to be somewhat greater than discussed above for conventional
(wet) processing.
3.1.2.2.4 Reclamation
Farmland's Proposed Reclamation Plan. Farmland proposes to reclaim much
of the mine site as agricultural land. This will require that the
windrows of overburden created during the mining operation be leveled
using heavy equipment. The operation of this equipment will result in
local increases in combustion emission levels.
The operation of heavy equipment during leveling, etc. would result
in increased noise levels in the area. Data presented by EPA (1979a)
indicate that such SPLs could be on the order of 36-93 db(A) within the
area being reclaimed (i.e., at distances of 30-200 ft). The maximum
values measured were at close proximity (30 ft) to an operating pay-
scraper. Noise levels would be mostly on the order of 75 db(A) at a
distance of 200 ft.
Conventional Reclamation. Conventional reclamation is the type of
reclamation which has been practiced in the Florida phosphate industry
3-12
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over the past years. Major features of this type of reclamation are the
creation of extensive areas of improved pasture on reclaimed clay
settling areas and numerous land and lake areas.
Because of the nearly flat topography which results from the
settling of clay with the separate disposal areas, little grading of
such areas would be necessary to produce a surface suitable for use as
pasture. Therefore, emissions and noise levels from equipment would
likely be less than for reclamation of sand-clay mix areas. The net
difference would be dependent upon the amount of ditching, etc., re-
quired to dry the upper layer of separate clay disposal areas to the
point where seeding could be accomplished.
Natural Mine Cut Reclamation. Natural mine cut reclamation would
eliminate the need for overburden leveling, etc., and thus result in a
decrease in the amount of combustion emissions from heavy equipment.
The noise levels associated with the operation of this equipment would
also be less than for Farmland's proposed reclamation plan and less than
conventional reclamation.
3.2 GEOLOGY AND SOILS
3.2.1 THE AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT
3.2.1.1 Geology
The Farmland site is located in the northern portion of the DeSoto
Plain physiographic province, just south of the Polk Upland. Elevations
at the site average about 80 to 85 ft on this relatively flat plain.
The site area is underlain by an average of 20.5 ft of Pliocene to
Recent surficial deposits consisting primarily of sand and clay.
Beneath the surficial deposits is the upper Hawthorn Formation (of
Miocene age), which averages about 20.5 ft in thickness and is the ore
bearing zone. At the base of the ore zone are clays and limestones
comprising the lower Hawthorn Formation.
3-13
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With respect to the underlying basement structure, the site is
situated within the western portion of the Osceola low, on the southwest
flank of the Ocala uplift. The Osceola low was downdropped along the
Kissimmee faulted flexure during formation of the Ocala uplift in
Mesozoic time. These features represent local basement structures on
the western flank of the Peninsular Arc of Florida.
Shallow marshy depressions occurring in the area may have resulted
from local solutioning of discontinuous limestone lenses within the
overburden. However, a high piezometric surface (well above the lime-
stone bedrock) has been found in the area; thus, karst development
resulting from solutioning and collapse is highly unlikely.
3.2.1.2 Soils
The nearly level and gently sloping soils on the Farmland mine site
are representative of large areas of Hardee and surrounding counties.
Most of these soils are deep, very sandy (about 96 percent), acidic (pH
of 4 to 5) and generally low in fertility for crop production (see
Tables 3-2 and 3-3). They are also characterized as having generally
poor surface and internal drainage. These soils support the following
crops, vegetation, or land use on the Farmland site in decreasing order
of acreage: improved pasture/cropland, citrus, forested wetlands, pine
flatwood/palmetto range, forested uplands and non-forested wetlands.
3.2.1.2.1 Soil Types
Soil types on the mine site were first mapped in 1950 by the U.S.
Department of Agriculture (USDA), Soil Conservation Service (SCS).
Fifteen soil types were mapped in the 1950 soil survey (Figure 3-2),
with apparent minimum delineations of less than 2 acres. In 1979,
approximately 1250 acres of the northern portion of the mine site
(Sections 27, 28, 34, 35, and part of 36) were remapped by the SCS as
part of an updated soil survey of Hardee County. More differences in
soils were recognized in the 1979 soil survey—resulting in more soil
types mapped, and some changes in soil designations.
3-14
-------
01
Table 3-2. PARTICLE SIZE DISTRIBUTION FOR NATURAL SOIL ON THE FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC. SITE AND
SOIL MATRIX PROCESSING WASTE MATERIALS.
% Sand
% Silt
% Clay and Colloidal
Organic Matter
Surface Soils*
(0-6")
96.4
1.7
1.9
Sand
0.8
63.8
14.5
21.7
:Clay Mix
4.6
83.8
7.0
9.2
Tailing
Sand
100
0
0
Phosphatic
Clay
19.8
32.7
47.5
Overburden**
2-5 feet 5-10 feet 10-20
89.7 82.9 ' 58
2.1 1.2 4
8.2 15.9 37
feet
.0
.5
.5
*Averages for 8 range, pasture and cropped soils,
**Averages for 3 samples.
Source: Zellars-Williatns, Inc. (1978).
-------
Table 3-3. CHEMICAL DATA FOR NATURAL SOIL ON THE FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC. SITE AND MATRIX PROCESSING WASTE1.
Soil 0-6 inches
Crops
Native and
Range Pasture2
Overburden1*
Sand: Clay Mix3 Tailing
0.8 4.6 Sand
Phosphatic
Clay
2-5
Native
Range
feet
Improved
Pasture
5-10
Native
Range
feet
Improved
Pasture
10-20
Native
Range
feet
Improved
Pasture
Calcium (Ca)
Ibs/acre
Magnesium (Mg)
Ibs/acre
Phosphorus (P)
Ibs/acre
Potassium (K)
Ibs/acre
pH
Ra-226 Picocuries
per gram
360 995
66 78
8 30
40 30
4.2 5.0
>0.1 0.35
>20,011 >20,011 >3,999
7,889 6,849 112
>666 >666 >133
403 203 17.0
7.6 7.7 6.3
4.1 3.3 2.4
>20,011
7,890
>666
901
7.7
6.1
324
12
>133
4
4.4
>1,948
142
>133
18
5.5
264
11
>133
5
4.6
6.26
>3,999
681
>133
30
5.7
3.06
>3,999
95
>133
24
4.6
32.3
>3,999
1,602
>133
340
7.1
5.6
'Calculated or taken from Radiation and Agricultural Productivity Analysis of Reclaimed Soils for Farmland's Hardee County Mine,
Zellars-Williams, Inc. June 1978.
2Avcrages for 2 crops and 2 types of pasture. Radium-226 for improved pasture only.
'Tailing sand and phosphatic clay from beneficiation.
*Approximate depths.
5True value may be ± 50% because of less than optimum sample size.
6From 0.5 to 10 feet depth.
-------
MM I.-^T '^~ t
ALIA VIAL BOTTOM LAND 4"
BKA[»MO.Sfj. Be-
BKKiHTONPIAl Bh
SYMBOL SOU TVPI
IMMOKALH l.i.
LKIN r j.
ONA f.v
PLlM«H»f.».
BLADfN I'.N.
BA\BOKIIIji.
I RLSim*T>R SVIAMP
Bn
B>
RLTLKDCMJ.
ST. LH IMJ
SYMBOL
-
FIGURE 3-2. SOIL TYPES ON THE FARMLAND INDUSTRIES,
INC. MINE SITE.
2,000 4,000
SCALE IN FEET
SOURCE: FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC., DRI, JUNE 1979
3-17
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Soils at the Farmland site were formed on sand deposits, which
occurred during the Pleistocene epoch of geologic time. Of the five
soil forming factors (parent material, topography, climate, plant and
animal life, and time), parent material, topography, and climate were
most involved in the formation of the site soils. In particular, the
soil-water relations in this area of relatively high rainfall, coarse
textured soils, poorly developed surface drainage and relatively high
groundwater, greatly influence soil characteristics.
A relatively small area of soils (approximately 10 percent of the
site) is mapped as organic soil (peat or muck), the remainder being
mineral soils with less than 2 percent organic matter. The peat and
muck soils are generally located in broad, low flats vegetated with
freshwater marsh/swamp species. While the mineral soils lie at slightly
higher elevations than the organic soils, it is estimated that soils in
75 percent of the areas have slopes of less than 2 percent; slopes
rarely, if ever, exceed 5 percent.
All soils are very deep. Typical soil profiles are described by
the SCS to greater than 55 inches in depth, and to an average of over 70
inches. However, these soil depths are not indicative of rooting
depths, for the relatively shallow groundwater tables present during
much of the year inhibit root development at such depths.
The SCS descriptions indicate that all of the mineral soils in the
area are comprised of 85 percent or more fine sand or sand in the sur-
face layers. Clay content of all mineral soils is estimated to be less
than 10 percent, except for some areas where clay was found below a
depth of 30 inches. Surface soils on the Farmland site were found to be
about 96 percent sand and 4 percent silt, clay, and colloidal organic
matter.
3.2.1.2.2 Drainage and Permeability
Drainage from all soils on the mine area is limited because of the
relatively high groundwater table and the lack of well-defined surface
3-18
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drainage systems. Approximately 10 percent of the land area is very
poorly drained, implying that the water table remains at or on the
surface a great part of the time. Over 75 percent of the land area is
estimated to be poorly drained, with the water table commonly at or
within 10 inches of the surface for 2 to 6 months a year.
Surface soils of the Farmland site are considered to be permeable
(5-10 inches/hour), but the permeability of more than 60 percent of site
soils is restricted by a hard pan located between 20 and 40 inches
beneath the surface. This pan, which may be 10 to 20 inches thick, has
a permeability of about 0.8-2.5 inches/hour.
3.2.1.2.3 Acidity
Nearly all the soils of the Farmland site are acidic. The organic
soils (peat and muck) are extremely acid (pH below 4.5), but are of
limited extent (10 percent). The soils over about 60 percent of the
site area are very strongly acid (ph 4.5 to 5.0) through the surface
horizons, and strongly acid (ph 5.1 to 5.5) in deeper horizons. The
remaining mineral soils range from neutral to strongly acid.
3.2.1.2.4 Agricultural Productivity
The soil acidity, low clay content, and low organic matter content
of most.of the soils of the Farmland site contribute greatly to the low
availability of most plant nutrients for growing crops. In their 1979
soil survey, the SCS assigned capability classes to soils found on the
Farmland site. Capability classes range from Class 3 soils having
severe limitations that reduce the choice of plants, require special
conservation practices, or both, to Class 7 soils having very severe
limitations that make them unsuited to cultivation and restrict their
use largely to pasture, range, woodland, and wildlife. More than half
of the site area is comprised of Class 4 soils having very severe
limitations that reduce the choice of plants, require very careful
management, or both. The capability limitation on approximately 90
percent of the area is water, in or on the soil surface, interfering
3-19
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with plant growth or cultivation. The limitation on the remaining soil
area is droughtiness.
3.2.2 ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES OF THE ALTERNATIVES
3.2.2.1 The No Action Alternative
Under the no action alternative the geologic features of the site
would likely remain as described in Section 3.2.1. The existing soils
would continue to support an established vegetative cover, grazing land
for livestock, and the production of limited agricultural crops. While
current land use will not apparently adversely affect existing soils,
with the possible exception of slight erosion, it will not significantly
benefit them either. Therefore they are not expected to support signif-
icantly greater agricultural productivity than at present.
3.2.2.2 The Action Alternatives, Including The Proposed Action
3.2.2.2.1 Mining
Dragline Mining (Farmland's Proposed Action). Dragline mining requires
that woody vegetation be removed from the areas to be mined in advance
of the actual mining operation. This will disturb surface soils and may
result in increased soil erosion. While mining is to proceed at a rate
of about 250 acres per year, Farmland indicates that the average advance
clearing in front of the mining operation will be about 20 acres. The
resultant impact (beyond that of actual mining) should be small.
Dragline mining will disturb the surface soils, entire overburden
section, and the upper portion of the Hawthorn Formation containing the
phosphate matrix over 4951 acres of the 7810-acre Farmland site. The
total depth of disturbance will average about 41 ft, with a maximum of
about 75 ft. Soils in the areas to be mined will undergo major dis-
turbance and loss of identification.
Solution cavities are known to exist in the Ocala Group, which lies
at a depth of 400 ft or more in this area. Due to the great depth to
3-20
-------
these units, no collapse features should result from loading, construc-
tion or other near surface activities. In addition, there will be no
increase in solutioning activity resulting from mining activities, as
the water table will not be lowered below the limestone units. There-
fore, no collapse features resulting from the planned activities on
local conditions are anticipated.
Dredge Mining. As with dragline mining, dredge mining would result in
the disturbance of surface soils in advance of the mining operation, and
total disturbance of the entire overburden section during mining. The
pre-mining disturbance may be greater than that for dragline mining
because of the dredge's materials handling limitations (e.g., stumps,
etc.).
Bucketwheel Mining. The impacts of bucketwheel mining on geology and
soils would be essentially the same as those of dragline mining, des-
cribed above.
3.2.2.2.2 Waste Sand and Clay Disposal
Sand-Clay Mixing (Farmland's Proposed Action). Most of the waste sand
and clay generated by the processing of matrix will be disposed of
through sand-clay mixing. These materials will also be stored sepa-
rately where sand-clay mixing is not feasible, so that portions of the
site will also have surfaces covered by these separate waste products.
The areas to be occupied by the various waste products are: sand-clay
mix, 3915 acres; clay, 1078* acres; and sand, 104 acres. The locations
of the various disposal areas are shown in Figure 2-6 (page 2-9).
Selected physical and chemical properties of sand, clay, and sand-
clay mix materials from the Farmland site were determined by Zellars-
Williams, Inc. (1978). Farmland site soil samples were also collected.
*The 1078 acres of impounded clays include Areas I (495 acres) and II
(583 acres). Clays from Area I will be dredged for use in sand-clay
mixing prior to the completion of mining. Therefore, only 583 acres of
separately impounded clays will remain at the end of the life of the mine
3-21
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Sand-clay mixtures covering the expected ratios to be used in Farmland's
mining operation (1.9:1 to 3.1:1) were also prepared for analysis by
Bromwell Engineering, Inc., of Lakeland, Florida. These mixtures had
sandtclay ratios of 0.8 and 4.6 (on a weight basis). Laboratory anal-
yses performed on each of the materials described above included:
calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, and Radium-226 content; pH;
and particle size distribution. Particle size and chemical data,
including radio-chemical data, are presented in Tables 3-2 and 3-3,
respectively. The physical and chemical characteristics of the various
waste materials are discussed in the following paragraphs.
Sand-Clay Mixture. The two sand-clay mixtures tested would be clas-
sified as either a sandy clay loam or a loamy sand. Data in Table 3-2
show that tailing sand, one component of the sand-clay mix, is 100
percent sand. The other component, phosphatic clay, contains approxi-
mately 20 percent sand, 33 percent silt, and 47 percent clay-sized
particles.
The chemical characteristics of the sand-clay mixes (Table 3-3) are
also agriculturally superior to those of the natural pre-mining soils.
Amounts of phosphorus, potassium, calcium, and magnesium generally range
from 10 to 100 times greater in the mixes. The higher levels of these
plant nutrients are in the range of normally productive soils, and would
prevent the need for adding fertilizers containing these particular
nutrients. The increased pH values of the mixes indicate that the
application of lime (formerly required on the pre-mining soils for
economical agricultural production) will not be required for the sand-
clay mix. Applications of nitrogen fertilizer will be required on the
mixes in order to maximize agricultural production, which is also true
for the existing soils. Increased nitrogen use efficiency on the sand-
clay mixes is anticipated because of reduced leaching rates and ad-
sorptive properties of the clay.
Considerably more radioactivity is associated with the sand-clay
mixes than with the natural pre-mining soil. The data suggest that the
3-22
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phosphatic clay contributes more radioactivity than the tailing sand.
These levels of radium-226 (Ra-226) are within the range projected for
similar mining developments.
Clay. The undesirable agricultural characteristics of waste clay
include poor tilth, delayed seed bed preparation, and cool soil temp-
eratures. Such clays also present limitations with regard to future
development (i.e., poor foundation material).
The chemical characteristics of clay waste, as evaluated from the
laboratory data obtained, are at lease as favorable as those of the
sand-clay mixes and much superior (agriculturally) to those of the pre-
mining soils.
Sand. The most undesirable agricultural characteristic of waste sand is
its inability to retain water. For this reason it is not suitable as a
seed bed or root zone material. Because of these limitations, Farmland
proposes to cap sand disposal areas with a 2-foot layer of overburden
(see next section).
Chemical analyses of waste sand indicate that, with the exception
of potassium, it contains higher nutrient levels than existing surface
soils.
Conventional Sand and Clay Disposal. Disposal of waste sand and clay as
conventionally practiced in the Florida phosphate industry would in-
crease the extent of the site to ultimately be covered with diked clay
wastes from 583 acres (using sand-clay mixing) to about 2500 acres.
Such areas would have limitations similar to those described above for
the separate clay disposal area under Sand-Clay Mixing. The larger
dikes, etc., used for conventional clay disposal would also be of
greater height than those for sand-clay mix areas and could be more
susceptible to erosion.
3-23
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3.2.2.2.3 Reclamation
Farmland's Proposed Reclamation Plan. The physical characteristics of
the sand-clay mixtures to be used in reclamation will be agriculturally
superior to those of the natural pre-mining soils. The larger propor-
tion of clay and other larger size particles in the sand-clay mix will
greatly increase the water holding capacity in the vegetation root zone
and, to some degree, alleviate the droughtiness associated with the pre-
mining soils. This added water holding capacity will also reduce the
rapid leaching of soluble plant nutrients. The improved soil structure
will also likely result in increased organic matter accumulation over a
period of years.
Areas of separately stored clays will have more limited value
because of their undesirable agricultural characteristics. With proper
drainage, however, they should at least be suitable for pasture. The
structural stability problems associated with such areas are an addi-
tional major concern.
Areas of separately stored sands will be capped with a 2-foot layer
of overburden. Particle size data presented in Table 3-2 indicate that
the overburden consists of strata in which particle size ranges from a
sand to a sandy clay loam. These soil textures encompass the range of
those previously discussed for the sand-clay mixes. All of the over-
burden textures represent a marked improvement for agricultural use
relative to the pre-mining soil. Chemical analyses of overburden
(Table 3-3) indicate differences in nutrient concentration between the
strata. The calcium, magnesium, and potassium concentrations in over-
burden to the 100-foot depth were found to be lower in natural native
range soil. Conversely, overburden values of these nutrients were much
higher than found in natural improved pasture soil. In most cases
overburden from strata deeper than 10-foot was found to be of higher
nutrient content than the pre-mining soils. However, the relatively
lower pH values (e.g., 4.4-5.7) found for overburden samples suggest
that liming will be necessary for optimum growth of many crops.
3-24
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Conventional Reclamation Plan. Reclamation as conventionally practiced
in the Florida phosphate industry would increase the area of the site
covered with soils of limited agricultural value (i.e., clays). Under
Farmland's proposed plan, the extent of such areas would be about 600
acres. Using conventional methods, this area would increase to about
2500 acres.
The land areas of the site reclaimed with material other than waste
clays would likely be graded overburden. The surface soils of such
areas would be quite variable, depending on which strata became the new
surface (see discussion of overburden cap for waste sand disposal area).
Such areas would likely be suitable for use as improved pasture.
Conventional reclamation would also result in the creation of more
extensive lakes than would Farmland's proposed plan. This would reduce
the land surface available for agricultural usage.
Natural Mine Cut Reclamation. Natural mine cut reclamation differs from
both Farmland's proposed reclamation plan and conventional reclamation
in that the overburden windrows created by the mining operation would
not be graded and reclaimed as pasture. The landscape would be very
irregular, resulting in soil erosion. Revegetation would also occur,
eventually stabilizing most areas. The productivity of such soils would
be limited to wildlife habitat. Natural mine cut reclamation in com-
bination with sand-clay mixing would produce the smallest overall land
acreage suitable for agricultural use (about 600 acres of settled
clays). Conventional sand and clay disposal combined with natural mine
cut reclamation would result in the creation of much larger areas of
such soils (about 2500 acres of settled clays).
3-25
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3.3 RADIATION
3.3.1 THE AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT
Naturally-occurring radionuclides such as uranium, thorium, and
their decay products, as well as tritium, carbon-14, and potassium-40,
are ubiquitous in nature and usually distributed uniformly. However,
some geological strata (such as marine phosphorite deposits) contain
significantly elevated concentrations of uranium, thorium, and their
decay products. The phosphate deposits of Florida are an example of
such strata and contain concentrations of uranium and its decay products
at levels about 30 to 60 times greater than those found in average soil
and rock. The presence of this radioactive material in extensive land
areas in central Florida creates the potential for radiation exposure of
the general population living on or near this land. The naturally-
occurring background levels can be both significant and highly variable.
The mining and processing of phosphate ore redistribute the radioactive
material in the biosphere, thus offering some potential for altering the
existing radiological environment by releasing some of these materials
as gases, airborne particulates, or water-borne effluents.
The phosphate deposits of central Florida contain average uranium
(primarily U-238) concentrations of about .1 to .4 pounds per ton (EPA
1977). The uranium is usually in equilibrium with its radioactive decay
products. Radioactivity is also present in parts of the overburden,
specifically the "leach zone". This zone, also called the aluminum
phosphate zone, is a discontinuous zone of altered friable phosphatic
sandstone above the matrix, varying in thickness from 1 to 10 ft. It is
composed of quartz sand cemented and indurated by the secondary minerals
such as wavellite, crandallite, and (locally) millisite. Also occurring
is a fine-grained secondary cement composed of kaolinite and aluminum
phosphate minerals. If a "leach zone" exists above the ore, it usually
contains uranium in concentrations comparable to that of the matrix.
Other portions of the overburden may also contain elevated radioactivity
3-26
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as compared to the surface soils. However, the radioactivity is gen-
erally associated with the phosphate itself, since the uranium replaces
the normal calcium in apatite. Consequently, the marketable ore and
waste clays containing most of the phosphate also contain most of the
associated radioactivity. Two-thirds of the phosphate originally
contained in the matrix remains in the marketable rock, with the re-
mainder primarily in the waste clays.
Soil throughout the U.S. typically contains between 0.2 and 3
picocuries (pCi) of Ra-226 per gram. Unmined, reclaimed, and disturbed
phosphate land can contain widely varying concentrations of Ra-226, the
amounts being related to the amount of low activity overburden and sand
tailings present as compared to higher activity matrix, waste clays, or
leach zone material. The presence of Ra-226 and its decay products in
soil presents a potential source of gamma exposure to individuals living
or working above the soil. Of greater concern is exposure arising from
the release of radon-222 (Rn-222), a noble gas decay product of Ra-226
with a 3.85-day half-life. It may diffuse through the soil into the
atmosphere. Observed Rn-222 concentrations in the air are highly
variable due to the influence of factors such as precipitation, baro-
metric pressure, and atmospheric thermal stability.
3.3.1.1 Uranium Equilibrium
In the uranium-238 series, the decay proceeds through 13 inter-
mediate daughter radionuclides until the stable nuclide lead-206 (Pb-
206) is reached. The nature of the series is such that a condition of
equilibrium is achieved only if the entire series remains undisturbed in
a "sealed" location over a long period of time. Mining produces a
considerable disturbance of the natural condition, leading to new
transport pathways. This disturbance may cause the higher activity
leached zone material and small quantities of the matrix to be rede-
posited near the ground surface upon reclamation. In some cases, mined
land is reclaimed with by-product materials (waste clays) from the
processing of the phosphate matrix. These materials contain approxi-
mately one-third of the uranium originally present in the matrix.
3-27
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3.3.1.2 Background Radiation
External whole-body gamma radiation exposure levels for Floridians
are essentially equal to those reported for the average U.S. citizen,
(i.e., approximately 100 millirems per year). Increases in external
gamma radiation levels are associated with materials used for construc-
tion (primarily roadways) and varied histories of land use (primarily
phosphate mining and reclamation), although nearly all are within the
range of background. Direct radiation levels over the Farmland property
are roughly 43 millirads per year. Samples of total suspended particu-
lates indicated levels of airborne gross alpha radioactivity which were
less than 0.1 picocuries per cubic meter.
3.3.1.2.1 Air
Exposures from air result principally from Rn-222 gas (and its
particulate daughter products) originating from the decay of Ra-226 in
soils. Lung dosage from Rn-222 is 0.240 rads per year in the Bone
Valley area, compared with 0.130 in the remainder of the state. The
mean annual natural background working-level (WL)* concentration for the
area is 0.004 compared with an inferred U.S. average of 0.001.
In the natural state, most of the Rn-222 (an inert gas) produced in
a phosphate matrix would not escape the media. Mining and beneficiation
alter the location of the Ra-226 and may increase the release of Rn-222
through the soil-air interface. Airborne radon and radon progeny can
impart a large radiation dose to the lungs in enclosed spaces.
3.3.1.2.2 Water
In water, the principal radiological contaminant is Ra-226. Lower
Floridan Aquifer water samples from non-mineralized areas of central
Florida exhibit a mean value of 1.4 pCi/1, while those from the Upper
*Radiation standards for exposure to Rn-222 and its short-lived daughters
are expressed in terms of workling level (WL) concentrations. One WL is
the amount of any combination of short-lived radioactive daughters of
Rn-222 in 1 liter of air that will release 1.3 x 10 M of alpha energy
during their decay to Pb-210.
3-28
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Floridan (Secondary Artesian) contain about 5.1 pCi/1. In mineralized
but unmined areas, these values increase to 2.0 and 2.3 pCi/1, respec-
tively. Surficial Aquifer water samples from these areas contain about
0.17 pCi/1. In mineralized but mined areas, these values are 1.96
(Lower Floridan), 1.61 (Secondary Artesian), and 0.55 pCi/1 (Surficial).
Water samples collected from the Farmland site were found to have the
following Ra-226 concentrations:
Surface Water - 0.6 pCi/1
Surficial Aquifer - 1.0 pCi/1
Secondary Artesian Aquifer - 15.6 pCi/1
Floridan Aquifer - 4.3 pCi/1
3.3.1.2.3 Structures
Radioactivity concentrations in homes and other structures built on
reclaimed land have been shown to be higher than in structures located
on land outside the mineralized phosphate area. The average annual
exposure to daughters of Rn-222 above natural background for persons
living on reclaimed land within the central Florida phosphate region is
calculated to be 540 millirems per year to the whole lung.
3.3.1.3 Subsurface Radioactivity
In both the north Florida and west central Florida mining regions,
the radioactivity is low at the surface, increases gradually and then
more rapidly with depth and is most concentrated in or just above the
matrix. If present, the "leach zone" (see Section 3.3.1) is usually
marked by high radioactivity.
Samples of materials from the Farmland site were taken in order to
make reasonably accurate predictions of the radiological and agronomic
properties of the reclaimed soils expected on the site. Samples of
topsoil, composite overburden, leach zone (if present) matrix and matrix
components for several drill holes were analyzed for Ra-226 (Table 3-4).
Splits from two cores were also analyzed for uranium and thorium (Th-
230) (Table 3-5). Samples of composite clay, composite sand, and three
3-29
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Table 3-4 RADIUM-226 ANALYSES OF CORE SAMPLES FROM FARMLAND
INDUSTRIES, INC. HARDEE COUNTY PROPERTY.
Sample
(B.D.-l)
(B.D.-3)
(B.D.-4)
BPL
Radiutn-226 Content Content
Component (Picocuries per gram) (%)
Top Soil (0-0.5')
Composite Overburden (0.5-101)
Composite Overburden (10'-20*)
Matrix (20'-32')
Pebble
Concentrate
Tailings
Slimes
Top Soil (0-0. 5')
Composite Overburden (0.5-101)
Composite Overburden1 (10' -26. 5')
Matrix (26. 5 '-47')
Pebble
Concentrate
Tailings
Slimes
Top Soil (0-0.5')
Composite Overburden (0.5'-6')
Leach Zone (6 '-10')
Composite Overburden1 (10'-15')
Matrix (15 '-36')
Pebble
Concentrate
Tailings
Slimes
< 0.1
6.2
32.3
9.7
32.3
30.2
3.3
12.2
0.3
21.4
7.1
6.8
32.9
23.8
0.72
4.6
0.32
3.0
6.4
5.6
8.5
29.8
26.0
3.2
5.0
0.8
3.3
9.2
19.4
29.4
70.4
4.5
14.0
0.5
14.4
15.3
23.0
49.4
66.3
1.5
18.8
1.1
1.0
9.8
14.2
12.6
58.4
67.9
4.2
13.4
10verburden actually low grade matrix considered unmineable by geologist
present.
2Due to the small quantity of sample submitted for analysis, these results
could vary by 50 percent.
Source: Environmental Science and Engineering, Inc.
3-30
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Table 3-5. RADIOMETRIC ANALYSES OF CORE SAMPLES FROM THE FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC. MINE PROPERTY.
OJ
Core Sample
B.D.-l
H-15
A-13
B-2
B.D.-3
B.D.-4
Split
1
2
3
4
5
1
2
3
1
2
3
4
1
2
3
4
5
1
2
3
4
1
2
3
Depth
0-5'
5-7.5*
7.5-12'
12-20'
20-25'
0-10/5'
10.5-46.5'
46.5-50'
0-6'
6-16'
16-25'
25-40'
0-8'
8-14.5'
14.5-18.5'
18.5-21'
21-27'
0-51
5-12.5'
12.5-29.5'
29.5-45'
0-2'
2-8.5'
8.5-20'
Description
Loose sands
Organic leach
Upper sandy clay
Soupy sand and leach
Matrix
Loose sand and sandy clay
Upper soupy sand
Matrix
Loose sand
Hardpan and sandy clay
Leach zone
Matrix
Loose sand
Tough sandy clay
Leach zone
Upper tough clays
Matrix
Loose sand
Leached upper clays
First matrix to overburden
Matrix
Loose sands
Clayey composite overburden
Matrix
Results of Analyses (pCi/g)
Radium-226
Uranium1 Thorium-2301 Analysis I1 Analysis 2^
4.7 4.6 ± 1.6 2.0 ± 0.6 <0.2
1.0 1.1 ± 0.3 1.6 ± 0.5 2.0
9 18 ± 3 16 ± 5 27.2
22 24 ± 4 22 ± 7 35.5
11 18 ± 5 22 ± 7 13.4
5.1
11.4
5.6
0.17 0.39± 0.26 0.181 0.05 0.7
3.1 7.5 ± 2.3 4.9 ± 1.5 7.7
33 90 ±40 67 ±20 70.2
4.7 9.4 ± 3.5 6.1 ± 1.8 14.6
91. 03
55.3
3.23
12.6
9.8
0.8
25.5
8.4
8.1
0.3
3.9
13.8
'Analyses done for Woodward-Clyde Consultants by Wilson Laboratories of Salina, Kansas.
2Analyses done for Farmland Industries, Inc. by Environmental Science & Engineering, Inc. of Gainesville, Florida.
3Radium-226 values appear to be off by an amount suggestive of mislabeling of these samples.
-------
Table 3-5. RADIOMETRIC ANALYSES OF CORE SAMPLES FROM THE FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC. MINE PROPERTY, Continued,
UJ
to
Core Sample
B.D.-l
H-15
A-13
B-2
B.D.-3
B.D.-4
Split
1
2
3
4
5
1
2
3
1
2
3
4
1
2
3
4
5
1
2
3
4
1
2
3
Depth
0-5'
5-7.5'
7.5-12'
12-20'
20-25'
0-10/5'
10.5-46.5'
46.5-50'
0-6'
6-16'
16-25'
25-40'
0-8'
8-14.5'
14.5-18.5'
18.5-21'
21-27'
0-5'
5-12.5'
12.5-29.5'
29.5-45'
0-2'
2-8.5'
8.5-20'
Description
Loose sands
Organic leach
Upper sandy clay
Soupy sand and leach
Matrix
Loose sand and sandy clay
Upper soupy sand
Matrix
Loose sand
Hardpan and sandy clay
Leach zone
Matrix
Loose sand
Tough sandy clay
Leach zone
Upper tough clays
Matrix
Loose sand
Leached upper clays
First matrix to overburden
Matrix
Loose sands
Clayey composite overburden
Matrix
Results of Analyses (pCi/g)
Radium-226
Uranium1 Thorium-2301 Analysis I1 Analysis 2Z
4.7 4.6 ± 1.6 2.0 ± 0.6 <0.2
1.0 1.1 ± 0.3 1.6 ± 0.5 2.0
9 18 ± 3 16 ± 5 27.2
22 24 ± 4 22 ± 7 35.5
11 18 ± 5 22 ± 7 13.4
5.1
11.4
5.6
0.17 0.39± 0.26 0.18+ 0.05 0.7
3.1 7.5 ± 2.3 4.9 ± 1.5 7.7
33 90 ±40 67 ±20 70.2
4.7 9.4 ± 3.5 6.1 ± 1.8 14.6
91. 03
55.3
3.23
12.6
9.8
0.8
25.5
8.4
8.1
0.3
3.9
13.8
1Analyses done for Woodward-Clyde Consultants by Wilson Laboratories of Salina, Kansas.
2Analyses done for Farmland Industries, Inc. by Environmental Science & Engineering, Inc. of Gainesville, Florida.
3Radium-226 values appear to be off by an amount suggestive of mislabeling of these samples.
-------
sand-clay mixtures were also prepared and analyzed for Ra-226 (Table
3-6). The observed values are within the rather wide range commonly
observed for corresponding samples in central Florida, although lower
than average.
3.3.2 ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES OF THE ALTERNATIVES
3.3.2.1 The No Action Alternative
Under the no action alternative the Farmland site would remain in
its present radiological state. Subsurface radioactivity would remain
in strata instead of being nearly uniformly distributed with depth.
This would leave the outdoor gamma radiation and the Rn-222 flux lower
than would be the case after land reclamation. In turn, any homes that
are constructed on the land would have lower indoor radon progeny
concentrations. Occupational radiatipn exposures would not occur, and
small increments in lung doses to nearby residents (from inhalation of
radioactive particulates) would be avoided.
3.3.2.2 The Action Alternatives, Including The Proposed Action
3.3.2.2.1 Mining
Dragline Mining (Farmland's Proposed Action). In the mining process,
the overburden overlying the matrix is stripped away and deposited in an
adjacent previously mined area as a series of spoil banks. As con-
ventionally practiced, materials that were originally near surface would
be placed at the bottom of the spoil pile, while the materials which
were just above the matrix would be placed at the top of the pile. Core
analyses have shown the Ra-226 profile in the site overburden to range
from less than 1 pCi/g near the surface to a high of about 67 pCi/g in
the leach zone at the overburden-matrix interface. Thus, dragline
mining (as conventionally practiced) would result in the exposure of the
leach zone and its relatively high radioactivity to the atmosphere.
However, the direct radiological impacts to operating personnel near the
mine should be minimal. Prince (1977) found the average external gamma
3-33
-------
Table 3-6. RADIUM CONTENT OF COMPOSITE WASTES FOR FARMLAND
RADIATION STUDY
Sample Radium-226 Content (Picocuries per gram)
Composite Clay 6.1
Sand:Clay Ratio 0.8:1 4.1
Sand:Clay Ratio 4.6:1 3.3
Sand:Clay Ratio 10.1:1 2.8
Composite Sand 2.4
Source; Bromwell Engineering, Inc.
3-34
-------
radiation levels in the vicinity of draglines to be about 5 yR/hr (near
baseline). Radon progeny levels were also found to be present at low
levels (0.0004 WL concentrations). This is a lower value than has been
found within slab-on-grade structures on unmined land in Polk and
Alachua Counties, which ranged from 0.001 to 0.032 WL.
Dredge Mining. Dredge mining, like dragline mining, would disrupt the
natural occurrence of radioactive materials within the overburden.
However, the redistribution of such layers would be more uniform because
of the mixing which would occur during slurry transport of the over-
burden from the mine to the disposal area. Since the water used to
transport the overburden would be in direct contact with radioactive
materials, it is possible that some increase in the levels of radio-
activity in these waters would occur even after most of the solids had
settled.
Bucketwheel Mining. Bucketwheel mining, like dragline mining, would
disrupt the natural occurrence of radioactive materials within the
overburden, and result in the same potential for exposure of such
material to the atmosphere.
3.3.2.2.2 Matrix Processing
Conventional Matrix Processing (Farmland's Proposed Action). The
distributions of radioactivity within the matrix from selected existing
mines (Roessler, et al. 1978) and for the Farmland site (Farmland 1979a)
are shown in Figure 3-3. From the washer plant come a coarse product
(pebble), an intermediate-sized product (flotation feed), and a fine
clay waste product. The clays in west central Florida have about the
same concentration of Ra-226 as the input matrix (both on a dry weight
basis), the actual level being dependent upon the efficiency of the
washer plant. In general, west central Florida clays average about 45
pCi/g Ra-226. Pilot plant studies with the matrix from the Farmland
site indicate that the concentration in the separated clays should be
from 4.6 to 12.2 pCi/g Ra-226.
3-35
-------
U)
UJ
OVERBURDEN
WASTE MATERIAL
MATRIX
Current Mines Farmland
30*(12-84)*«
10.8 (6.8-22)
OVERBURDEN SPOILS
Current Mines: 0.5-7
PRODUCT
WASHER PLANT-
PEBBLE
Current Mines Farmland
31 (30-32)
57 (45-97)
FLOTATION FEED
PRODUCT
FLOTATION
PLANT
CONCENTRATE
Current Mines Farmland
35 (26-50)
* AVERAGE VALUE
** RANGE IN VALUES
24 (21-28)
FIGURE 3-3.
RADIUM (in pCi/g) IN CURRENT CENTRAL FLORIDA
PRODUCTS AND WASTES VS. EXPECTED VALUES FOR
THE FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC. PROJECT.
SOURCE: FARMLAND INDUSTRIES. INC., 1979; ROESSLER, ET AL 1978
WASTE MATERIAL
CLAYS
Current Mines Farmland
32(10-73) 9.9(3.2-27)
WASTE MATERIAL
SAND TAILINGS
Current Mines Farmland
5.2 (1.7-12)
1 (0.8-1.4)
,
-------
Flotation feed is routed to the flotation plant where concentrate
and a sandy, waste fraction (termed sand tailings) are produced. The
tailings at this site represent about 60 percent (by weight) of the
incoming matrix. After separation, they contain only a small fraction
of the matrix radioactivity. Samples from operating west central
Florida mines were found to average about 5 pCi/g. Samples from the
Farmland site indicate that these tailings should have a Ra-226 con-
centration of 1 to 3 pCi/g, a value which appears to represent a very
efficient separation.
Prince (1977) found the external gamma radiation levels in bene-
ficiation plants to be about twice the background levels. However,
results of a work-station survey found occupancy factors low enough to
reduce annual exposures to insignificant levels. Radon progeny levels
were below the levels reported for slab-on-grade structures on unmined
land (0.0007 WL). Therefore, the radiological impacts to operating
personnel at the plant should be minimal.
Prince (1977), in his study of the occupational radiation exposures
in the phosphate industry, found wet rock storage piles to yield gamma
radiation at an average rate of 67 uR/hr. However, occupancy factors
around such piles are extremely small, making the annual exposure to an
individual insignificant. In areas where the occupancy factor is high,
the elevation in gamma radiation was found to be low. Wet rock storage
and transfer tunnels (located under wet rock piles) were found to be the
most serious radiological hazard areas. WL measurements at 11 sites
yielded levels between 0.0007 WL and 0.096 WL.
Dry Matrix Processing. Dry matrix processing would involve the sepa-
ration of the matrix fractions by air or electrostatic methods. This
dry separation would produce tremendous amounts of particulate matter,
requiring the control of airborne radioactive particulates. Even with
control measures, radioactivity in the area of the dry process bene-
ficiation plant would likely be higher than if conventional methods were
used.
3-37
-------
3.3.2.2.3 Sand and Clay Waste Disposal
Sand-Clay Mixing (Farmland's Proposed Action). As indicated previously,
the processing of matrix at the Farmland plant will produce two solid
waste streams—clays and sand tailings. Both of these streams will
contain radioactive materials. When these two wastes are combined at
the proposed 2.5:1 ratio, a final Ra-226 concentration of about 3.5
pCi/g should exist. Pre-mining Ra-226 subsurface profiles (<1 pCi/g at
the surface to 32 pCi/g near the matrix) will be altered to a reclaimed
profile having from between 1 and 4 pCi/g nearly uniformly distributed
with depth, but "spikes" are expected throughout because of the occur-
rence of matrix or high activity material ("leach zone") originally just
above the matrix. Separately stored sand tailings should be more
uniform, with Ra-226 concentrations being about 2.4 pCi/g throughout.
Separately impounded clay sediments are expected to yield an average
concentration of 6.1 pCi/g, but with both higher and lower "spikes".
The redistribution of radioactivity in waste sand and clay will
also alter the terrestrial gamma radiation where these materials are
deposited. Table 3-7 contains the predicted gamma radiation levels for
sand and clay waste from the Farmland mine. These estimates consider
the expected uranium, thorium, and potassium contents of various post-
reclamation land types following Beck and dePlanque (1968), who give
exposure rates in air for each ppm of uranium, thorium, and potassium in
soils. The waste clay will emit the highest amount of gamma radiation
(12.9 yR/hr @ 1m). However, only a small fraction of the site (12
percent) will be covered by this material, and its high water content
may reduce the gamma level through shielding. The remainder of the
waste products are expected to meet or only slightly exceed the 10 yR/hr
interim recommendation for gamma exposure levels at new structure sites
on Florida phosphate lands (EPA 1976). The mean outdoor gamma radi-
ation of the site is expected to increase from 6.5 yR/hr to 11.9 yR/hr.
An additional concern about the waste materials is the amount of
Rn-222 flux from them. The level of radon flux is considered an indicator
3-38
-------
Table 3-7. PREDICTED GAMMA RADIATION CHARACTERISTICS OF RECLAIMED
LAND ON THE FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC. MINE SITE.
Cosmic
Predicted Gamma Contribution
Land Type yR/hr (31m yR/hr Total yR/hr
Overburden Reclaimed
Sand/Clay Mixture
Tailings Reclaimed
Clay Reclaimed
6.1
8.3
5.7
12.9
3.6
3.6
3.6
3.6
9.7
11.9
9.3
16.5
Source: Adapted from Beck and dePlanque (1968).
Table 3~8< PREDICTED RADON FLUX FROM RECLAIMED LAND ON THE FARMLAND
INDUSTRIES, INC. MINE SITE.
2
Radon-222 Flux, pCi/m s
Without 2-ft With 2-ft
Land Type of Topsoil of Topsoil
Overburden Reclaimed 0.95 0.68
Sand/Clay Mixture 1.3 0.94
Tailings Reclaimed 0.91 0.66
Clay Sediments 2.3 1.7
Source: Adapted from Roessler, et al. (1978) .
3-39
-------
of the potential hazard of indoor radon progeny within slab-on-grade
residential and public structures. Table 3-8 summarizes predicted radon
flux values for various waste surfaces. The first column lists the
results of a mono-layer diffusion model (without topsoil); the second
column contains the values predicted by a bi-layer diffusion model (with
topsoil). Specific parameters for each waste type were taken from the
data of Roessler, et al. (1978) for similar media. For each land type,
the reduction is between 20 and 30 percent. However, even the uncapped
values are within the range of Rn-222 fluxes which have been observed on
unaltered lands (Table 3-9). Therefore, the increase in outdoor air-
borne Rn-222 concentrations from these fluxes should be insignificant.
Conventional Sand and Clay Disposal. Conventional clay disposal would
result in the separate disposal of sand and clay waste materials. This
would create about 2500 acres of surface area with higher radiation
levels (on the order of 6.1 pCi/g) than would result using sand-clay mix
methods.
3.3.2.2.4 Reclamation
Farmland's Proposed Reclamation Plan. As indicated previously, the
reclaimed mine site will have different radiological characteristics
than the premined site. The resultant impact of this new radiological
environment will depend upon the end land use of given areas and the
levels of the various radiological characteristics. Farmland's recla-
mation plan calls for the return of much of the site area to agricul-
tural usage. There is no evidence that agricultural development of the
reclaimed mine site will pose a significant radiological hazard through
soil-to-crop-to-man food chain uptake. However, little is known about
the behavior of Ra-226 uptake from this type of soil. A very limited
study (Bolch 1979) suggests that the excess availability of the major
divalent cations in these soils (Ca-H- and Mg++ primarily) will produce a
discrimination against uptake of Ra-H- in the clay soils containing
higher than normal Ra-226. However, additional research is required to
further define the full extent of the potential hazards. It should be
3-40
-------
Table 3-9. SUMMARY OF RADON-222 FLUX CHARACTERISTICS OF VARIOUS
LAND TYPES IN POLK COUNTY, FLORIDA.
Radon-222 Flux, pCi/m s
Land Types Number of Sites
Unaltered
Unmined Radioactive Fill
Tailings
All Overburden
Capped and Mixed Clays
Uncapped Clays
Debris
17
2
19
27
6
2
15
Mean
0.2
1.3
0.7
1.5
1.6
4.4
4.2
Range
0.1
0.6
0.1
0.1
0.3
3.6
1.7
- 1.7
- 2.8
- 2.7
-12.8
- 7.2
- 5.4
-13.7
Source: Roessler, et al. (1978).
3-41
-------
noted that current fertilizer products such as TSP may contain up to 32
pCi/g Ra-226. Thus, the direct application of fertilizer products to
crops may be of more concern than the direct uptake from the reclaimed
soils.
Should buildings (such as residences) be located on the reclaimed
site, indoor radon and radon progeny concentrations would be higher in
these structures than outdoors. For any homes that are constructed, the
predicted indoor radon progeny (WL) could range from 0.011 over re-
claimed sand tailings to 0.018 WL over reclaimed clay settling areas.
The value for homes over sand-clay mix areas would be 0.013 WL. Slab-
on-grade structures in Polk County over undisturbed lands have WLs
ranging from 0.001 to 0.010, with a geometric mean of 0.003. Two
standards for WL in existing homes have been proposed: (1) a 0.029 WL
total exposure including background (Florida Department of Health and
Rehabilitation Services 1978) and (2) a 0.020 WL total exposure in-
cluding background (EPA 1979b). The reclamation processes and undevel-
oped lands were not addressed in detail in EPA's 1979 recommendations to
the Governor of Florida (EPA 1979b). However, the following specific
guidance was provided for new homes on any reclaimed, debris, and
unmined lands which contain phosphate resources:
"IV. Development sites for new residences should be selected
and prepared, and the residences so designed and sited, that the
annual average indoor ...." Working Levels " ...do not exceed ....
background levels...." (EPA 1979b)
If the final guidance for reclaimed lands is similar to the recom-
mendation quoted above, then the upper limit of predicted WLs in slab-
on-grade homes will be approximately 0.009 WL (normal background of
0.004 WL plus the uncertainty of 0.005 WL). Overall, the reclaimed
Farmland site will slightly exceed this upper range. However, Farm-
land1 s reclamation plan does not include plans for residential devel-
opment. If residences were planned they would have to be designed so as
to prohibit the accumulation of radon progeny to levels above the .009
WL limit.
3-42
-------
Conventional Reclamation. Reclamation as conventionally practiced in
the Florida phosphate industry would increase the area of the site with
exposed soils having Ra-226 concentrations on the order of 6.1 pCi/g.
Under Farmland's proposed plan, the extent of such areas would be 583
acres. Using conventional methods, this acreage would increase to about
2500 acres.
Natural Mine Cut^ Reclamation. Natural mine cut reclamation differs from
both Farmland's proposed reclamation plan and conventional reclamation
in that the overburden windrows created by the mining operation would
not be graded and reclaimed as pasture. Because of the irregular
topography created by natural mine cut reclamation, much of the site
would not be suitable for residential or agricultural use. Thus, the
pathways to the human environment would be eliminated. The areas used
for disposal of waste clays could be utilized for pasture and would thus
be a potential source of uptake. The natural systems that would develop
over most of the site would also tend to retain radioactive species.
3.4 GROUNDWATER
3.4.1 THE AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT
3.4.1.1 Groundwater Quantity
Three aquifers underlie the Farmland site—the Surficial Aquifer,
the Secondary Artesian Aquifer, and the Floridan Aquifer (Figure 3-4).
The Surficial Aquifer extends to the land surface and consists of about
60 ft of sand and sandy clay. Relatively impermeable portions of the
matrix (phosphate bearing zone) at the base of the surficial deposits
separate the Surficial Aquifer from the underlying Secondary Artesian
Aquifer. The Secondary Artesian Aquifer consists of about 230 ft of
dolomitic limestone, sandy clay, and small amounts of chert. There is a
relatively impermeable clay bed at the base of the Secondary Artesian
Aquifer. This is considered to be a leaky confining bed separating it
from the underlying Floridan Aquifer. The Floridan Aquifer includes a
thick series of permeable beds of limestone.
3-43
-------
0
u
«
«n
h
£ soo
•a
I
§
4J
0
0
1000
Upper sand unit
' ._' '
« .' ' . '
I
' . '
' . '—-J— ' ' ' '
» . I
Suwannce Limestone i i
_L
' . '
_L
_L
_L
±
H Limestone TTn1' *". ' ' . '
J Avon Park Limestone
JL
X
_L
J_
' t ' t •z—/ Dolostone Unit -7-^ /')-*-
b
0
I
M
0
C
-H
•a
0
ffl
^^ k«
< -H
«W
Vl
O
r-(
|X4
8
0
c
O
0
§
*J
m
«
3
D1
<
<0
•t-t
U
M
CO
FIGURE 3-4. HYDROGEOLOGICAL CROSS SECTION OF THE
FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC. MINE SITE.
SOURCE: FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC.. DRI, JUNE 1979
3-44
-------
3.4.1.1.1 Surficial Aquifer
The level of the water table in the Surficial Aquifer varies in
response to changes in rainfall, evapotranspiration, baseflow support to
streams, and leakage into the underlying Secondary Artesian Aquifer.
When measured between May 1977 and August 1978, the water levels varied
from 10.0 ft below to 0.84 ft above the ground surface. Because the
ground surface varies between 35 and 100 ft, the water table elevation
is also variable. Water levels have been periodically monitored since
November 1975 in piezometers on the Farmland property (P.E. LaMoreaux &
Associates, Inc. [PELA] 1978) and on Mississippi Chemical Corporation
(MCC) property, just north of the Farmland site (PELA 1977). These data
indicate that the water table generally reaches a seasonal low in May
and highs between June and September (Figure 3-5) . The dry season
decline in water table under the mine site was measured to be 2 to 8 ft
in 1978. The greatest seasonal water level fluctuations appear to occur
where the percentage of sand is greatest.
The average value of transmissivity obtained from two pumping tests
was 11,200 gallons per day per foot (gpd/ft) (PELA 1979). The average
values of specific yield at Farmland are as follows:
Aquifer Transmissivity Specific Yield
Thickness (ft) (gpd/ft) or Storage
60 11,400 14
The average values of specific yield at Farmland are approximately ten
times the specific yield obtained by MCC in tests on adjoining property
(MCC 1976). Values of the in-situ horizontal permeability obtained from
—3 2
20 recovery tests averaged 1.5 X 10 cm/sec (32 gpd/ft ) for silty fine
—5 2
sands and 1.2 X 10 cm/sec (0.25 gpd/ft ) for clayey sands. Laboratory
-4
values for vertical and remolded permeability ranged from 3 X 10 to
-3 2
9 X 10 cm/sec (6.4 to 190 gpd/ft ) for silty fine sands and from 1 X
10~6 to 1 X 10~5 cm/sec (0.021 to 0.21 gpd/ft2) for clayey sands (Arda-
man & Associates, Inc. 1980).
3-45
-------
2
o
LO
-P-
1U
CD
Ul
Ul
Ul
Ul
_J
E
ID
10
11
12
NO DATA
WELL: CP-1
WATER LEVEL MEASURMENTS: MAXIMUM DAILY WATER LEVEL
ELEVATION OF MEASURING POINT: 81.50 FT. ABOVE M.S.L.
76.5
ui
ui
75.5 £
M
74.5
73.5
Ul
72.5 S
71.5
70.5
69.5
Ul
Ul
K
Ul
i
JUN JUL AUG
1977
SEPT
OCT
NOV
DEC
JAN
1978
FEB MAR APR MAY
JUN
JUL AUG
FIGURE 3-5. HYDROGRAPH OF SURFICIAL AQUIFER WELL CP-1
ON THE FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC. MINE SITE;
JUNE 1977- AUGUST 1978.
SOURCE: P.E. LA MOREAUX & ASSOCIATES. INC. (1978)
-------
Wells in the Surficial Aquifer yield up to 200 gpm in some areas
and are widely used as a water supply. There are approximately 20
domestic wells and a number of small diameter irrigation and stock wells
completed in the Surficial Aquifer within 1 mile of the Farmland property.
3.4.1.1.2 Secondary Artesian Aquifer
The Secondary Artesian Aquifer includes the Hawthorn Formation and
the Tampa Limestone (Figure 3-4). The top of the Secondary Artesian
Aquifer conforms generally to the top of the bedrock and is about 60 ft
below the surface of the property. A 10 to 20 ft thick bed of clay at
the base of the Tampa Limestone located approximately 600 ft below the
ground surface separates the Secondary Artesian Aquifer from the under-
lying Floridan Aquifer.
Because the confining beds of the Secondary Artesian Aquifer are
not completely impermeable, local leakage occurs from both the Surficial
Aquifer and the underlying Floridan Aquifer. Due to the head difference
of 25 to 40 ft, the Farmland property may be an area of recharge from
the Surficial Aquifer to the underlying Secondary Artesian Aquifer. The
upper confining layer is more than 100 ft thick in some areas of the
mine site and has an es
Associates, Inc. 1980).
mine site and has an estimated leakance of 1 X 10 gpd/ft (Ardaman &
The head in the Secondary Artesian Aquifer in the vicinity of the
Farmland property was found to vary seasonally from 2.5 ft above to 1.0
ft below the head in the Floridan (PELA 1979). Pumping tests on the
_3
Floridan Aquifer at the mine site indicate a leakance of 2.4 X 10
o
gpd/ft (PELA 1979). Upward leakage may occur from the deeper Floridan
Aquifer when the potentiometric surface of the Floridan is higher than
that of the Secondary Artesian Aquifer.
During the period of record, the water level in one well in the
Secondary Artesian Aquifer attained a high level of 52.40 ft above mean
sea level (MSL) and a low level of 29.80 ft MSL. Seasonal variation is
3-47
-------
generally similar to that in the underlying Floridan Aquifer (Figures
3-6 and 3-7).
One pumping test was conducted on the Secondary Artesian Aquifer on
the Farmland property (PELA 1979) and a transmissivity value of 43,300
gpd/ft was obtained. The average values of specific yield at Farmland
are as follows:
Aquifer Transmissivity Specific Yield Leakance
Thickness (ft) (gpd/ft) or Storage (gpd/ft )
500 43,300 2.52 x 10~4 0
The values of storativity are one to two orders of magnitude smaller
than those obtained at the MCC property (MCC 1976).
The in-situ horizontal permeability was determined to be between
-3 -3
1.0 X 10 and 2.5 X 10 cm/sec for indurated calcareous clays and
limestone. Values for in-situ horizontal permeability of clayey sands
O /
and clays ranged between 3.0 X 10 and 1.6 X 10 cm/sec (Ardaman &
Associates, Inc. 1980). Vertical permeabilities obtained from labora-
tory tests ranged from 1.0 X 10 to 5.2 X 10 cm/sec for indurated
-9 -8
calcareous clays and limestone and from 1.7 X 10 to 2.8 X 10 cm/sec
for clays (Ardaman & Associates, Inc. 1980).
Wells in the Secondary Artesian Aquifer yield as much as 1000 gpm
in the vicinity of the proposed mine. There are only a few wells in the
vicinity of the Farmland property that are completed solely in the
Secondary Artesian Aquifer.
3.4.1.1.3 Floridan Aquifer
The Floridan Aquifer is the primary source of water supply for
Hardee County and much of Florida. Yields of 5000 gpm per well are
common. There are a large number of high yielding irrigation wells
completed in the Floridan Aquifer in the immediate vicinity of the
Farmland property.
3-48
-------
UJ
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vo
2
O
27
31
I"
UI
HI
CD
39
43
UI
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51
55
-SECONDARY ARTESIAN AQUIFER PUMP TEST*
WELL: FIS-3
WATER LEVEL MEASUREMENTS: MAXIMUM DAILY WATER LEVELS
ELEVATION OF MEASURING POINT:82.60 ABOVE M.S.L.
55.6
51.6
ui
ui
in
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47.6 tu
S
ui
43.6 2
^
ui
UI
39.6 t
ui
35.6 ui
oc
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5
31.6 S
27.6
SEPT
1977
OCT
NOV
DEC
JAN
1978
FEB
MAR
APR
MAY
JUN
AUG
» WELL LOCATED 50 FT FROM PUMPED WELL
FIGURE 3-6. HYDROGRAPH OF SECONDARY ARTESIAN AQUIFER
WELL FIS-3 ON THE FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC,
MINE SITE; SEPTEMBER 1977- AUGUST 1978.
SOURCE: P.E. LA MOREAUX & ASSOCIATES. INC. (1978)
-------
2
27 r
31 •
cc
a35
Ul
ui
CD
£ 43
ui
47
E
5 51
SS
SEPT
1977
FLORIDAN AQUIFER PUMP TEST
WELL: FIF-2 I
WATER LEVEL MEASUREMENTS: MAXIMUM DAILY WATER LEVELS \
ELEVATION OF MEASURING POINT: 82.60 FT. ABOVE M.S.L.
55.6
51.6 5
47.6
43.6
39.6
35.6
31.6
2
M
in
s
111
<
ui
K
111
27.6
OCT
NOV
DEC
JAN
1978
FEB
MAR
APR
MAY
JUN
JUL
AUG
• WELL LOCATED 100 FT FROM PUMPED WELL
FIGURE 3-7. HYDROGRAPH OF FLORIDAN AQUIFER WELL FIF-2
ON THE FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC. MINE SITE;
SEPTEMBER 1977- AUGUST 1978.
SOURCE: P.E. LA MOREAUX & ASSOCIATES, INC. (1978)
-------
From top to bottom the Floridan Aquifer includes the Suwannee
Limestone, the Ocala Group and the Avon Park Limestone (Figure 3-4).
All three units consist of limestones, dolomitic limestones or dolo-
stones. The Suwannee comprises the upper 250 ft of the Floridan Aqui-
fer. The most prolific water producing unit is the Avon Park Limestone
which extends from 980 to 1600 or 1700 ft below ground surface. Its
lowest stratum is a relatively impermeable evaporite. Many of the wells
drilled in the area near the Farmland property penetrate fractured and
cavernous zones in the Avon Park Limestone, but no significant cavernous
zones were encountered in the wells drilled on the Farmland site.
The relatively impermeable evaporite stratum at the base of the
Avon Park Limestone is underlain by the Lake Creek Limestone which has a
very low transmissivity (PELA 1977). Thus, an impermeable zone which
would prevent or greatly retard the upward movement of water separates
the freshwater in the Floridan Aquifer from the highly mineralized water
found in underlying rock. The saltwater/freshwater interface calculated
by using the Ghyben-Herzberg principal (Stringfield 1966) for conditions
at the Farmland mine site in March 1978 was about 2100 ft below MSL.
Elevations of the piezometric head in the Floridan Aquifer beneath
the Farmland property varied between 28 and 53 ft MSL when measured from
September 1977 through May 1978. The head in the Floridan tends to vary
seasonally and was observed to be approximately the same as the head in
the Secondary Artesian Aquifer (Figures 3-6 and 3-7).
One pumping test of the Floridan Aquifer was conducted on the
Farmland property. The water levels in the wells offsite were not
noticeably affected. The average value obtained for the transmissivity
of the Floridan Aquifer at the Farmland site was 528,000 gpd/ft, which
is about one-half that obtained at the MCC site. This difference could
be due to the aquifer having better developed cavities at the MCC site
3-51
-------
than at the Farmland site. The average storativity values for both
sites were as follows:
Aquifer Transmissivity Specific Yield Leakance
Thickness (ft) (gpd/ft) or Storage (gpd/ft )
950 528,000 2.5 x 10~3 2.3 x 10~3
A leakance of 2.3 X 10 gpd/ft was measured at the Farmland site, but
no leakage was detected with the MCC test. Since the nearest outcrop to
the Floridan is more than 100 miles away from the proposed mine, any
recharge to the Floridan Aquifer is from leakage.
There are currently nine wells on Farmland property that pump water
for irrigation from the Floridan Aquifer. All of the pumping occurs
during the dry season, which is also the time that the potentiometric
surfaces of the artesian aquifers are at the lowest levels. Calculated
drawdowns at the boundaries of the Farmland property resulting from
pumping these irrigation wells range from 1 to 5 ft.
3.4.1.2 Groundwater Quality
The quality of the underlying groundwaters is generally good, with
only a few parameters exhibiting high enough concentrations to warrant
concern from a public health standpoint. But primarily because of the
effects of local geology, the water in each of the three aquifer systems
has a distinctive chemical character.
3.4.1.2.1 Surficial Aquifer
A summary of Surficial Aquifer water quality data for two wells on
the Farmland mine site is presented in Table 3-10. Concentrations of
almost all constituents measured are within the Florida water quality
standards, the exception being the Florida gross alpha standard (15
pCi/1), which was consistently exceeded.
3.4.1.2.2 Secondary Artesian Aquifer
The overall quality of the groundwater in the Secondary Artesian
'Aquifer (Table 3-11) is lower than that in the Surficial Aquifer, which
3-52
-------
Table 3-10.
STATISTICAL SUMMARY OF GROUNDWATER QUALITY DATA FOR SELECTED WELLS IN THE SURFICIAL
AQUIFER ON THE FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC. MINE SITE.
U)
i
Ul
UJ
PT-13
Parameter1
Temperature (°C)
pH (std. units)
Conductivity (ymhos/cm)
Total Dissolved Solids
Total Suspended Solids
Total Alkalinity as CaC03
Total Hardness as CaCO
Calcium
Magnesium
Sodium
Potassium
Iron
Silica
Sulfate
Chloride
Fluoride
Bicarbonate
Nitrate
Phosphate
Hydrogen Sulfide
Radium-226 (pCi/1)
Gross Alpha (pCi/1)
Dissolved
Suspended
x2
22.5
5.5
101
67
14
33
44
11
3.7
4.9
0.42
1.16
2.7
3.6
13
0.34
42
0.26
1.21
0.49
0.5
43.4
3.7
S.D.
1.2
0.2
29
19
20
26
15
3
1.7
0.7
0.24
0.42
0.6
1.4
8.4
0.12
32
0.36
0.95
0.16
0.4
26.7
2.7
Min.
20.5
5.07
70
36
1.0
12
28
6.9
1.9
4.3
0.29
0.13
1.8
2.2
9.2
0.02
21
<0.01
<0.01
0.10
0.1
6.6
1.8
Max.
24.6
5.9
155
104
73
111
72
16
7.1
7.0
1.20
2.00
4.2
6.8
42
0.47
136
1.34
4.27
0.72
1.1
81.6
8.4
X
24.5
5.6
95
60
7
17
38
8.9
2.9
6.1
0.60
2.04
4.6
11
11
0.40
22
0.14
0.53
0.28
0.5
69.3
3.8
PT-23
S.D.
1.6
0.3
18
12
9
8.5
7
1.8
1.0
4.5
0.22
0.64
1.1
2.5
1.9
0.17
11
0.14
0.22
0.19
0.1
37.3
2.1
Min.
22.3
5.1
73
45
1.7
3.7
28
7.0
1.6
4.3
0.35
0.24
3.0
7.4
8.5
0.02
4.5
0.01
0.06
0.10
0.3
19.7
2.1
Max.
27.5
6.3
124
93
38
31
50
12
4.7
21
1.19
2.79
7.0
17
14
0.60
38
0.51
0.80
0.70
0.6
115.4
7.3
JA11 units in mg/1 unless otherwise noted.
2Abbreviations: x = mean; S.D. - standard deviation; Min. = minimum value determined;
Max. = maximum value determined.
3Data for PT-1 and PT-2 are based on 14 monthly samples between June 1977 and July 1978.
-------
Table 3-11 ANALYSES OF GROUNDWATER FROM THE SECONDARY ARTESIAN AND FLORIDAN AQUIFERS ON THE
FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC. MINE SITE.
01
Parameters1
Sampling Date:
Temperature (°C)
pH (std. units)
Conductivity (umhos/cm)
Total Dissolved Solids
Total Suspended Solids
Total Alkalinity as CaC03
Total Hardness as CaCO_
Calcium
Magnesium
Sodium
Potassium
Iron
Silica
Sulfate
Chloride
Fluoride
Bicarbonate
Nitrate
Phosphate
Hydrogen Sulfide
Radium-226 (pci/1)2
Gross Alpha (pCi/1)2
Dissolved
Suspended
Secondary Artesian
Aquifer (FIS-1)
Floridan Aquifer
(FIF-1)
7/12/77 7/15/77 10/4/77 10/14/77 10/21/77 10/24/77
26.0
7.62
465
307
87
174
206
41
25
27
3
0
23
45
21
3
212
0
0
1
16
11
6
.0
.26
.3
.0
.01
.136
.20
.0(7/77)
.1(7/77)
.2(7/77)
25.5
2.5
460
319
5
152
200
39
25
25
3
0
18
45
20
2
185
<0
0
1
15
12
<3
.0
.7
.0
.07
.7
.8
.01
.03
.64
.2(2/78)
.1(2/78)
.5(2/78)
30.
7.
570
371
0.
136
246
51
29
9.
0.
0.
10
100
11
0.
165
<0.
<0.
2.
6.
590
370
0.0
147
247
56
26
90
. L
2.03
<0.01
10
100
12
0.25
179
<0.01
<0.02
31
* 1
13.9(7/78)
9.3(7/78
<6. 0(7/78)
2Radiologic samples were taken on dates shown in parentheses.
Source; P.E. LaMoreaux & Associates, Inc. (1978).
-------
is not surprising considering its longer contact time with local geo-
logical strata. The Secondary Artesian waters generally have higher
concentrations of silica, sulfate, fluoride, magnesium, calcium, bi-
carbonate, and potassium, and lower concentrations of iron, nitrate, and
phosphate, than surTicial groundwaters near the mine site. Ra-226
concentrations (on the order of 15-16 pCi/1) were found to be much
higher in the Secondary Artesian Aquifer than in the Surficial Aquifer
(0.5 pCi/1). The concentrations found exceed the Florida standard for
Ra-226/Ra-228 and fluoride.
3.4.1.2.3 Floridan Aquifer
The quality of the groundwater in the Floridan Aquifer is in some
cases poorer than that found in the Secondary Artesian Aquifer (Table
3-11). Water from the Floridan Aquifer has greater concentrations of
calcium and sulfate, but smaller concentrations of sodium, potassium,
iron, silica, chloride, fluoride, and bicarbonate. Relatively high
concentrations of hydrogen sulfide were also found in water samples from
this aquifer. The Florida standard for Ra-226/Ra-228 was exceeded on
two sampling dates (6.7 pCi/1 on one date and 13.9 pCi/1 on another
date). However, these levels are generally lower than were found in
samples from the Secondary Artesian Aquifer.
3.4.2 ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES OF THE ALTERNATIVES
3.4.2.1 The No Action Alternative
Under the no action alternative no appreciable changes in the
existing quantities of groundwater are anticipated. The present sea-
sonal changes in water levels in the Surficial, Secondary Artesian, and
Floridan Aquifers will not be affected. The seasonal pumping of the
Floridan Aquifer by the nine onsite high-capacity irrigation wells will
continue, as will their resultant drawdowns. This alternative will also
cause no changes in the hydrologic characteristics of the Surficial
Aquifer or change in rate of baseflow to the local surface water courses.
3-55
-------
Groundwater quality under the no action alternative will depend on
the future uses for land in the area. If land use patterns in the
immediate area remain fairly constant over the next few decades, ground-
water quality should remain much as it is today.
3.4.2.2 The Action Alternatives, Including The Proposed Action
3.4.2.2.1 Mining
Dragline Mining (Farmland's Proposed Action). The impacts of dragline
mining on groundwater quantity will be associated primarily with the
Surficial Aquifer as a result of dewatering of mine pits. Water seeping
into mine pits will be collected and added to the recirculating pro-
duction water supply. Seepage into pits will vary from one area to the
next depending on the length of the mine cut, but will average about 500
gpm (Farmland 1979b). Where pits are adjacent to existing streams, the
pits will induce infiltration from the streams—increasing pit seepage
and causing some decrease in streamflow until the pit dewatering ceases.
Under Southwest Florida Water Management District (SWFWMD) regu-
lations the water table should not be lowered by more than 3 ft at the
property boundaries. In order to prevent this from occurring, Farmland
proposes to construct rim ditches between the mine pits and adjacent
property boundaries in areas where water table decreases could be
significant. These will be kept filled with water. Seepage into the
ground will help maintain the water table level beneath the neighboring
property.
Dragline mining should not result in any significant changes in
groundwater quality.
Dredge Mining. Use of dredge mining would maintain water levels in the
surrounding Surficial Aquifer; however, increased pumping of the Flori-
dan Aquifer would be required to maintain water levels in the dredged
pits during dry seasons. This added pumping of the Floridan Aquifer
would cause increased declines in the piezometric head in the Floridan
Aquifer.
3-56
-------
The water contained within the active mining area would likely be
turbid and contain higher concentrations of some parameters than water
in the adjacent undisturbed Surficial Aquifer. At times when the level
of the Surficial Aquifer is below the water level in the active mining
area, some of this water could move laterally and degrade its quality.
However, the resultant impacts on groundwater quality in the area should
be insignificant.
Bucketwheel Mining. The impacts of bucketwheel mining on groundwater
quantity would be similar to those described for dragline mining.
Bucketwheel mining should not result in any significant changes in
groundwater quality.
3.A.2.2.2 Matrix Transport
Slurry Matrix Transport (Farmland's Proposed Action). Farmland proposes
to pump matrix from the active mining area to the beneficiation plant as
a water slurry. The water used in this process (about 25,500 gpm) will
be recycled water from the washer plant rather than fresh water. The
only fresh water required (about 250 gpm, or .36 mgd) is that needed for
use as seal water in the pumps themselves. The seal water will be
obtained from shallow wells into the Surficial Aquifer.
Conveyor Matrix Transport. Conveyor matrix transport would involve the
placement of matrix onto a belt conveyor at the active mining area for
transport to the beneficiation plant without the use of water. While it
would appear that this would eliminate the need for large quantities of
water involved in slurry transport, there is actually little difference
in the overall operational water needs. This is because a similar
amount of water to that used in slurry pumping would have to be added to
the conveyored matrix once it reached the plant to initiate processing.
The need for pumps, and thus the 250 gpm of pump seal water, would be
eliminated—the actual net difference.
3-57
-------
Truck Matrix Transport. As in the case of conveyor matrix transport,
truck matrix transport would eliminate the need for pump seal water from
the Surficial Aquifer (250 gpm). However, it would likely be necessary
to apply water to haul roads, etc. to reduce fugitive particulate
levels.
3.4.2.2.3 Matrix Processing
Conventional Matrix Processing (Farmland's Proposed Action). Conven-
tional matrix processing requires that groundwater be used in combi-
nation with flotation reagents to separate the various fractions of the
matrix. Under normal operating conditions, groundwater will be pumped
at a rate of 8.8 MGD from the Floridan Aquifer. Figure 3-8 presents the
projected drawdown which this withdrawal would produce. The contours
shown in this figure were generated using the Trescott finite difference
model (Trescott 1973) and pump test data acquired for Farmland's Con-
sumptive Use Permit Application, administered by the SWFWMD. As pre-
sented, the drawdown contours represented are the result of withdrawals
from a single well located at the beneficiation plant. Farmland plans
to evaluate the effects of the Floridan pumping in more detail with
SWFWMD so that all drawdown regulations enforced by SWFWMD can be met
(i.e., no more than 5 ft at the property boundary, unless a variance is
granted). The Trescott model predicts a maximum steady state drawdown
of about 31 ft. This may require that pumping be halted temporarily
during dry periods in order to prevent the potentiometric surface from
dropping below sea level—violating SWFWMD regulations.
All the impacts to potentiometric surface in the Floridan Aquifer
are expected to be temporary. The potentiometric level is expected to
recover once pumping is ended, in much the same way that the aquifer
recovers from the irrigation pumping each year.
The elevation of the saltwater-freshwater interface below the site
was determined using the Ghyben-Herzberg principle. Its location was
estimated to be 2100 ft below MSL in March 1978. The great distances to
3-58
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FIGURE 3-8. FLORIDAN AQUIFER DRAWDOWN PROJECTION FOR
THE PRODUCTION WELL LOCATED AT THE
FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC. PLANT SITE;
PUMPING RATE 6200 6PM. -4 N
SOURCE: ADAPTED FROM DATA PROVIDED BY FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC.
0 2.000 4,000
SCALE IN FEET
3-59
-------
the interface and the probable presence of a relatively impermeable
evaporite stratum at the base of the Avon Park Limestone should sub-
stantially prevent the upward migration of mineralized water into the
Floridan Aquifer (PELA 1979b).
Dry Matrix Processing. Dry matrix processing would involve the use of
air and/or electrostatic separation of the matrix fractions. Thus, the
drop in the potentiometric head of the Floridan Aquifer predicted for
the pumping discussed above should not occur.
Dry matrix processing should ngt result in any significant changes
in groundwater quality.
3.4.2.2.4 Process Water Sources
Groundwater Withdrawal (Farmland's Proposed Action). The impacts of
groundwater withdrawal on groundwater quantity are discussed under
"Conventional Matrix Processing", above.
The impacts of groundwater withdrawal on groundwater quality are
discussed under "Conventional Matrix Processing", above.
Surface Water Impoundment. Impounded surface waters collected from
above average flows of onsite streams would provide a process water
source capable of satisfying all project requirements. Therefore,
surface water impoundment should not result in any significant changes
in deep (Floridan) groundwater quantity. Surface water impoundment
would also help maintain the water table height in the Surficial Aqui-
fer, at least in the vicinity of the impoundment.
Because such impounded surface waters would provide a process water
source capable of satisfying all project requirements, surface water
impoundment should not result in any significant changes in deep (Flor-
idan) groundwater quality.
3-60
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3.4.2.2.5 Waste Sand and Clay Disposal
Sand-Clay Mixing (Farmland's Proposed Action). Farmland proposes to
dispose of most of the waste sand and clay from the beneficiation plant
in the form of a sand-clay mix. This material will be placed into mined
areas once space becomes available. Separate sand and clay disposal
areas will also be required during the life of the mine. Disposal of
waste clay in a separate impoundment (Area I, 495 acres) during the
initial years of operation is required because sufficient mined area
will not be available for sand-clay mix disposal. During following
years, a separate disposal area (Area II, 583 acres) is required to
control the ratio of sand relay in the mix used to fill mined areas. In
order to make the initial settling pond (Area I) functional, it will be
filled with water from the Floridan Aquifer prior to operation. This
will require the withdrawal of about 8.8 mgd over a period of about 1
year. This withdrawal of water from the Floridan Aquifer will produce a
drawdown similar to that which will occur during normal operations
(Figure 3-8). Area II will be filled with water from the recirculating
water system and thus should not result in any additional impacts on
groundwater quantity.
Much of the water withdrawn during normal operations (about 8.8
mgd) will be entrained within the waste disposal areas. During the
initial years of operation (when waste sand and clay are disposed of
separately) this will amount to about 4.5 mgd. It is anticipated that
this loss of water through entrainment will be reduced when sand-clay
mixing is used, but the actual degree of success for water recovery is
not known at this time.
Farmland's proposed waste disposal plan will also affect the
quantity of water in the Surficial Aquifer, for some of the water used
to transport waste sand and clay and from the ditches and ponds com-
prising the water recirculation system will seep into the Surficial
Aquifer. Under average annual conditions, this should amount to about
4.5 mgd (Farmland 1979a; 1979b).
-------
As indicated above, some of the water used to transport these
wastes would seep into the Surficial Aquifer. This water, if contami-
nated during use, could move laterally and degrade the quality of the
Surficial Aquifer in adjacent areas. Ardaman (1980) reports that the
coefficient of horizontal permeability for the Surficial Aquifer is on
_o
the order of 5.0 x 10 cm/sec, or about 15 ft/day.
One way to characterize the water quality effects of mixing mine
and beneficiation plant water with Surficial groundwaters is to compare
existing characterizations of such waters from other mining operations
with the quality of Surficial Aquifer waters. This comparison is made
in Table 3-12. The slime supernatant water is the average of analyses
from 15 beneficiation plants in Florida. According to this comparison,
Surficial Aquifer water quality would be degraded in a localized area
around the sand-clay mixtures. Concentrations of most constituents
would increase in the area near the reclamation sites. While the
concentrations of a number of constituents would increase, available
data do not indicate water quality standards would be exceeded. Con-
centrations of fluoride in the slime supernatant exceed the 1.5 mg/1
groundwater standard for Florida by about 33 percent. It is expected
that available mixing would lead to fluoride concentrations below the
standard within a short distance from the reclamation activities. Ra-
226 concentrations are not expected to rise significantly above back-
ground levels.
Conventional Sand and Clay Disposal. In conventional sand and clay
disposal, all of the waste sand and clay generated by the beneficiation
plant would be disposed of in separate areas—that used for clay dis-
posal totaling about 2500 acres. Such areas would, as described for
Farmland's proposed action, be a source of seepage to the Surficial
Aquifer. However, the settled clays may form more of a natural "liner"
than sand-clay mix will, significantly reducing such movement.
The increased entrainment of water by the separately impounded
clays over the life of the mine would increase the amount of water
3-62
-------
Table 3-12. COMPARISON OF THE WATER QUALITY OF SURFICIAL AQUIFER WATER
AND SURFACE WATER FROM THE FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC. MINE
SITE TO MEASURED VALUES IN CLAY SETTLING AREA DISCHARGES.
Constituents1
Surficlal Surface Clay Settling Area
Aquifer'
Water'
Supernatant
pH, pH units
Specific Conductance,
ymhos/cm
Total Dissolved Solids
Calcium
Magnesium
Sodium
Potassium
Bicarbonate
Sulfate
Chloride
Iron
Silica
Fluoride
Nitrate, as N
Phosphorus, as PO,
Radium-226, pCi/1
5.6
98.
64.
10.
3.3
5.5
0.51
32.
7.3
12.
1.6
3.7
0.37
0.20
0.87
0.5
6.4
171.
200.
20.
7.4
9.9
3.6
39.
19.
29.
0.76
8.2
0.20
1.2
1.62
0.12
7.8
523.
348.
57.
22.
18.
1.3
112.
144.
17.
0.119
2.5
2.0
1.06
0.273
0.67
1Units are mg/1 unless otherwise noted.
2Average of analyses from Troublesome, Hickory, and Oak Creeks
(October 1979 and March 1980).
3Average of analyses from wells PT-1 and PT-2 (June 1977 to July 1978).
''Lament, et al. 1975. Characterization Studies of Florida Phosphate
Slimes.
Source: U.S. EPA. 1979. Development Document for Effluent Limitations
Guidelines and Standards, Mineral Mining and Processing
Industry, Point Source Category.
3-63
-------
"lost" relative to sand-clay mixing. Data presented by Farmland (1979b)
indicate that the loss incurred through such clay areas could be on the
order of 4.5 mgd.
As stated above, the disposal of waste sand and clay in separate
areas might provide for better containment of the water used for their
transport. This would reduce seepage and thus the impacts on the
quality of the Surficial Aquifer from that described above for Farm-
land' s proposed plan.
3.4.2.2.6 Water Management Plan
Discharge to Surface Waters (Farmland's Proposed Action). A discharge
to surface waters should not result in any significant changes in
groundwater quantity or quality.
Connector Wells. Connector wells could be used to discharge uncon-
taminated water from the recirculating water system to the deep aqui-
fers. This would to some degree offset the withdrawal of groundwater
from the Floridan Aquifer for processing.
Disposal of collected surface water in deeper aquifers may improve
water quality (in the aquifer) in terms of dissolved solids, but would
probably degrade groundwater quality in terms of other constituents such
as fluoride, phosphate, and nitrate.
3.4.2.2.7 Reclamation
Farmland's Proposed Reclamation Plan. Farmland proposes to use a sand-
clay mix for backfill over the majority of the mine site. The reclaimed
land is expected to have lower hydraulic conductivities because of the
higher clay content of the backfill material. Consequently, less
seasonal fluctuation of the Surficial Aquifer level is expected in
reclaimed areas than presently occurs in the unmined land. The decrease
in head of the Surficial Aquifer may also act to reduce the movement of
water from the Surficial to the Secondary Artesian Aquifer.
3-64
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The water which comprises the "Surficial Aquifer" of the reclaimed
mine site will most likely be of different quality than exists at
present. The waste materials disposed of in mined areas will contain
substantial amounts of reagents, etc. which may appear in water with-
drawn from such areas in future years.
Conventional Reclamation. With conventional reclamation, much of the
site (2500 acres) would be covered with impounded waste clays to a
height of 35 ft above grade. These areas would be relatively imper-
meable and result in reduced water levels in the Surficial Aquifer.
Those areas not covered with waste clays would be filled with overburden
or sand tailings, or reclaimed as lakes. In these areas, the Surficial
Aquifer would most likely reestablish to a greater degree than in areas
covered by clays and perhaps even sand-clay mix.
The quality of the water within the reestablished Surficial Aquifer
may also be higher using conventional reclamation methods. The reagents
used in matrix processing would for the most part be contained by the
waste clays in the separate disposal areas. Using sand-clay mix methods,
those compounds may migrate from the waste clays and contaminate
groundwater.
Natural Mine Cut Reclamation. The numerous water catchment areas (i.e.,
ungraded windrows) produced by natural mine cut reclamation would
probably increase water levels in the Surficial Aquifer. However, this
would occur at the expense of surface water flows from the site (see
Section 3.5.2.2.7).
The quality of the water entering the Surficial Aquifer from mined
areas could be of lower quality than for conventional reclamation
because of the stagnation, etc., which could develop in isolated pools
draining into the reclaimed surface. Such water would not, however,
contain the quantities of reagents which could occur in water from sand-
clay mix landfills.
3-65
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3.5 SURFACE WATER
3.5.1 THE AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT
3.5.1.1 Surface Water Quantity
The Farmland mine site is located in an area typical of the Coastal
Lowlands physiographical region. The site consists of nearly level
plains, gently undulating to rolling areas with numerous swamps and
marshes, and numerous intermittent and perennial streams. Sinkholes are
common in the region, but no sinkholes or perennial lakes exist on the
Farmland property. Elevations onsite range from 35 to 100 ft above MSL
(PELA 1979).
The distribution and circulation of water in the atmosphere, on the
land surface, and in the soil and underlying rocks of the Farmland site
are typical of the Middle Gulf Hydrologic System as described by Cherry,
et al. (1970). This well established hydrologic pattern is a result of
the semi-tropical climatological regime, the very flat relief, the
unconsolidated surficial deposits, and the limestone and dolomite
geologic formations of the region. The frequent occurrence of rain
storms in the summer months results in high stream discharges, and
occasionally some local flooding. During the remainder of the year
rains are usually less frequent and stream flows decrease, some streams
go completely dry, and much of the flow in the others is baseflow that
drains from the unconfined aquifer. The amount of baseflow ranges from
14 to 20 percent of the total yearly runoff.
Most of the mine site lies within portions of the drainage basins
of Troublesome, Hickory, and Oak Creeks, which are all tributaries of
the Peace River. The drainage divides are poorly defined and in some
areas are overtopped during floods. About 4 percent of the site is
3-66
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adjacent to and drains directly into the Peace River. The pre-mining
drainage areas and average annual flows are as follows:
Area
(acres)
Troublesome 1,167
Hickory 2,261
Oak 4,055
Peace 250
Total 7,733 40.2
Each stream on the Farmland property was monitored between June
1977 and August 1978, and the streamflows were compared to the dis-
charges at the U.S.G.S. gaging station on Horse Creek near Arcadia,
Florida. Average streamflows for the streams on the site have been
estimated based on these Horse Creek data (Table 3-13) . All of the
streams on the Farmland property, except Troublesome Creek, were ob-
served to be dry during the spring and fall of 1977 and 1978. Their 2-
and 10-year, 7-day low flow is zero. The low-flows estimated for
Troublesome Creek are 0.4 cfs for the 2-year, 7-day low flow and 0.04
cfs for the 10-year, 7-day low flow.
Peak flow estimates for the streams on the Farmland property were
made by applying drainage basin parameters of area, main channel slope,
and storage to an equation developed from flow data collected from 15
gages streams comprising 439 station years of published peak flows in
the Florida phosphate region. Peak flows were calculated for recurrence
intervals of 2, 5, 25, and 100 years (PELA 1979) and are shown in Table
3-13.
3.5.1.2 Surface Water Quality
The Farmland site lies within the Peace River Basin. The water
quality of the Peace River, as well as others in the region, is greatly
influenced by flow—with higher dissolved solids and ionic concentra-
tions occurring in the October-May dry period. The Peace River's flow
3-67
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Table 3-13. AVERAGE AND FLOOD FLOWS OF STREAMS AT SELECTED SITES ON
THE FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC. MINE SITE.
Location
Drainage Average
Area Flow
(Sq.Mi.) (cfs)
Flood Flows (cfs)
2-yr. 5-yr. 25-yr. 100-yr.
TROUBLESOME CREEK
Inflow to property,
Section 36
16.6
Outflow from property,
Section 1 17.7
16.4 365 776 1680 2900
17.5 381 811 1750 3020
HICKORY CREEK
Outflow of upper segment,
Section 26 2.56
Inflow to property,
2.6
103 192 393 590
Section 35
0.67 mile from mouth
OAK CREEK
Inflow from upper Oak
Creek below railroad,
Section 9
Section 11
Outflow from property
3.64
6.12
10.6
15.5
16.4
3.7
6.9
10.2**
14.9**
15.8**
157 306 691 1012
_*
185 287 424 592
_
35l 640 1188 19.0
*No Data.
**Based on total drainage with no adjustment for natural flood diversions
to Brushy and Horse Creek.
Source: P.E. LaMoreaux & Associates, Inc. (1979).
3-68
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is quite variable because of the relatively large contribution of
overland runoff. Also affecting water quality in the Peace River are:
(1) releases of pollutants into streams or lakes through point dis-
charge; (2) failures of retaining dikes around treatment ponds; (3)
overland runoff; and (4) inflow from contaminated aquifers hydraulically
connected to the streams and lakes of the basin. Excessive concen-
trations of phosphates, fluorides, and nitrate and nitrite nitrogen are
frequently found in Peace River Basin waters below the site. Excessive
values have occasionally been measured for turbidity, ammonia nitrogen,
and coliform bacteria. Phosphate mining activities in upstream areas
account for phosphate and fluoride concentrations, while nitrogen
concentrations may come from either point or non-point sources. Coli-
form bacteria come directly from sewage treatment plant discharges or
from septic tank influence in the populated but unsewered areas.
Other affected watersheds included in the Peace River Basin are the
Troublesome, Hickory, and Oak Creeks. A summary of surface water
quality data from these watersheds is presented in Table 3-14. Surface
water quality on and immediately adjacent to the site is generally good,
although it does have a tendency to vary with time on a daily and
seasonal basis. The primary causes of these observed variations appear
to be related to several factors, of which stream discharge rates,
biologic activity, and drainage basin land use seem to be the most
important. Based on their dissolved salt content, these surface waters
can be characterized as being similar to the waters of the Surficial
Aquifer, a result that is not entirely unexpected considering the role
of this aquifer in providing base flow to streams.
When the existing surface water conditions were examined for
conformance with the Florida standards, the dissolved oxygen standard
for Florida waters was found to be violated with greatest regularity.
However, the cause of this violation is a naturally occurring phenomenon
resulting from the structure of the biologic community occupying these
waters. Similarly, occasional violations of the alkalinity, pH, fluo-
ride, iron, and fecal coliform standards have occurred. For the most
3-69
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u>
Table 3-14. STATISTICAL SUMMARY OF SURFACE WATER QUALITY DATA FROM SELECTED STATIONS ON THE
FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC. MINE PROPERTY; JUNE 1977 - JUNE 1978.
Parameter1
Discharge, cfs
Conductivity, (jmhos/cm
pH, std. units
Suspended solids
Total organic carbon
Dissolved oxygen
Biochemical oxygen demand
(5-day)
Nitrogen as N
Nitrate/Nitrite
Ammonia
Organic
Phosphate as P
Ortho
Total
Dissolved silica
Fluoride
Iron
Aluminum
Fecal coniform (///100ml)
x"
_
290
6.4
9
18.3
7.6
-
0.777
0.08
0.97
2.30
2.57
3.9
1.4
-
-
180
Peace
S.D.
_
77
0.6
5
7.3
1.7
-
0.313
0.05
0.45
0.71
0.85
2.2
0.55
-
-
260
River'
Mln.
_
140
5.4
<5
8.5
5.2
-
0.465
<0.03
0.27
1.41
1.61
1.1
0.37
-
_
<2
Troublesome Creek"
Max.
„
430
7.4
22
33.8
9.8
-
1.47
0.23
2.3
3.79
4.50
8.7
2.6
-
-
1200
X
48
221
6.6
7
21.8
7.3
-
1.56
0.06
1.2
0.602
0.82
4.3
0.37
-
_
640
S.D.
162
79
0.6
3
11.6
1.8
-
1.07
0.03
0.6
0.164
0.27
2.3
0.14
-
-
1620
Min.
0.0
128
5.5
<5
3.5
4.5
-
0.136
<0.03
0.36
0.245
0.55
1.0
0.11
-
-
15
Max.
771
310
7.5
17
44.0
10.0
-
3.89
0.12
2.8
0.89
1.8
8.4
0.54
-
-
7600
X
53
144
6.3
12
28
6.9
-
0.079
0.06
1.4
0.65
0.91
3.6
0.32
-
-
740
Hickory
S.D.
130
53
0.7
20
11
3.0
-
0.08
0.05
0.6
0.26
0.43
2.9
0.18
-
-
1390
Creek5
Min.
0.0
50
4.4
<5
5.8
0.2
-
<0.004
<0.03
0.14
0.323
0.41
0.2
0.08
-
-
<2
Oak Creek6
Max.
540
245
7.8
116
50
12.2
-
0.293
0.22
3.3
1.3
2,8
12.2
0.88
-
-
7500
X
104
154
6.2
19
39.1
4.8
-
0.115
0.08
2.4
0.75
1.2
4.3
0.30
-
-
750
S.D.
330
67
0.6
23
13.1
3.0
-
0.324
0.08
2.6
0.52
0.72
3.4
0.16
-
-
2500
Min.
0.0
58
4.8
<5
10.2
0.0
-
<0.004
<0.03
<0.02
0.223
0.04
0.5
0.11
-
*•
<2
Max.
1390
350
7.0
117
67.8
15.1
-
2.09
0.44
14.9
3.50
3.66
16.5
1.1
-
-
17,000
in rag/1 unless otherwise noted.
Abbreviations: x - mean; S.D. - Standard Deviation; Min. - Minimum Value Determined; Max. - Maximum Value Determined.
'Stations SW-15 and SW-16 (24 samples between June 1977 to June 1978).
"Stations SW-11 and SW-12 (24 samples between June 1977 to June 1978).
'Stations SW-4, SW-9, SW-13, and SW-14 (42 samples between June 1977 to June 1978).
'Stations SW-2, SW-6, SW-7, and SW-8 (46 samples between June 1977 to June 1978).
Source: All data used in this analysis were as reported by P.E. LaMoreaux & Associates, Inc. (1978).
-------
part, these conditions also appear to be a reflection of natural con-
ditions in these waters. Limited analyses for radiochemical constit-
uents failed to find detectable levels of total uranium, thorium-230,
gross alpha, or gross beta. Ra-226 concentrations ranged from 0.0 to
0.38 pCi/1. The EPA standard for combined Ra-226 and Ra-228 concentra-
tions is 5.0 pCi/1. Conformance with this standard cannot be determined
from the available data, as concurrent Ra-228 analyses were not performed.
3.5.2 ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES OF THE ALTERNATIVES
3.5.2.1 The No Action Alternative
Under the no action alternative no appreciable changes in the
existing surface water quantity are anticipated. The present seasonal
changes in streamflow will not be affected, flood flows will not, be
changed, nor will the extent of flooding. This alternative will also
cause no change in the hydrologic characteristics of streams or change
in rate of baseflow to them.
Surface water quality under the no action alternative will depend
on the future uses for land in the area. If land use patterns in the
immediate area remain fairly constant over the next few decades, surface
water quality should remain much as it is today. If other phosphate
mining and processing projects are permitted, selected stream waters may
show increases in TDS, sulfate, phosphate, nitrogen, and fluorides. The
amount of increase would depend upon the type of mining and chemical
processing operations utilized in these facilities. Slight increases in
radiological concentrations in surface waters may also be expected.
3.5.2.2 The Action Alternatives, Including the Proposed Action
3.5.2.2.1 Mining
Dragline Mining (Farmland's Proposed Action). Land clearing in prepa-
ration for mining will also increase surface water runoff from areas
prior to mining, but because Farmland proposes to minimize the amount of
3-71
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cleared land (e.g., averaging only about 20 acres at any given time),
this impact should be minimal. The land acreage cleared during a given
year will likely be at its highest just prior to the wet season, since
the heavy machinery used in such clearing would be more difficult to
operate on the saturated terrain. Rainfall from cleared land that has
not been mined will continue to flow to natural streams. As mining
advances, a greater proportion of surface water would be retained in the
active pits, with less flowing overland into existing creeks.
The most significant impact on surface water flows will result from
the retention of water in the mine pits. Precipitation caught in the
pits will become part of the water recirculation system. Thus, runoff
from the site during mining will be less than prior to mining, and
stream flows (even flood flows) will be less (Table 3-15). It is
estimated that by the fifteenth year of mine operation the total average
stream flow from the Farmland site will have decreased by about 2 cfs (5
percent). Data are presented for year 15 because that is the year in
which the largest total percentage of land is expected to be disturbed.
The stream flows in Table 3-15 include the water expected to be dis-
charged from the mine recirculation system into Hickory and Oak Creeks.
These discharges are expected to occur only during periods of high
rainfall and flows. If such discharges were not made, the maximum
reduction in stream flow from the site during mining would be about 5
cfs (i.e., 3 cfs will be returned to the streams as mine water discharge-
resulting in a stream flow reduction of about 2 cfs).
Farmland's proposed mine plan calls for the mining of portions of
the Oak Creek and Hickory Creek 25-year floodplain. Diversion channels
will be constructed prior to such mining so that the flows can be diver-
ted to adjacent systems. Such diversions will be graded with the
necessary meanders and vegetated prior to altering the flow patterns.
These diversions will be designed for a 25-year rainfall event. Fol-
lowing mining, floodplains will be back-filled and graded to form a new
stream channel and revegetated prior to the reintroduction of the
stream. During the mining of Hickory Creek, flow will be diverted to
3-72
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Table 3-15. DRAINAGE AREAS ON FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC. SITE AND
DISCHARGE FROM PROPERTY BOUNDARY.
Troublesome
Hickory
Oak
Peace
TOTAL
Before
Area
1,167
2,261
4,055
250
7,733
Mining
Flow
(cfs)
17.5
6.9
15.8
-
40.2
Year
During
Area
1,099
1,763
3,190
250
6,302
15
Mining
Flow
(cfs)
17.4
6.0
14.9
-
38.3
After
Area
918
2,598
3,967
250
7,733
Mining
Flow
(cfs)
17.1
6.9
15.7
-
39.7
Source: Farmland Industries, Inc., DRI June 1979.
3-73
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Troublesome Creek. The flood flow in Troublesome Creek would be about
40 percent greater for a 25-year rainfall event and 44 percent greater
for a 100-year flood if these events were to occur while Hickory Creek
is diverted to it. The diversions are described in more detail in the
following section.
Less dramatic than the effect of drainage basin changes, but still
a factor in the overall impact of precipitation on the mine property,
will be the effects of decreased infiltration rates. Infiltration will
essentially not occur on the land areas (111 acres) covered by build-
ings, pavement and other impervious materials. Also, it is expected
that the infiltration rate in the clay settling areas (1078 acres) and
sand-clay mix areas (3915 acres) will be much less than the original
rate. The result will be increasingly greater runoff as the reclamation
proceeds. This tendency, however, will be more than offset by the
presence of onsite retention areas, with the overall net impact being an
approximate 0.5 cfs decrease in runoff.
Another factor likely to significantly affect local stream flows
will be a reduction in baseflow which could occur when mine pits near a
stream are dewatered. Baseflow in a portion of a stream could be
locally absent or less than average during the time that an active mine
pit abuts the stream. In dry years groundwater may contribute up to 40
percent of the annual runoff from these streams. In wet years at least
25 percent of the flow is from groundwater. Mining is planned within
200 ft of Troublesome Creek in years 10, 15, and 17; within 100 ft of
preserved portions of Hickory Creek in years 1, 12, 13, and 17; and
within 100 ft of Oak Creek in years 1, 4, 6, and 10. It is estimated
that 0.4 gal/min per ft of mine cut will enter the mine pits (assuming
saturated conditions). Thus a 300 ft cut directly adjacent to Oak Creek
in mining Block 10A would have a maximum flow of about 3 cfs or 3
percent of the creek's average flow. However, this impact would only be
temporary.
3-74
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A discussion of the water quantity impacts on specific surface
waters is presented in the following paragraphs.
Troublesome Creek
There is no mining planned for the Troublesome Creek floodplain.
The only mining to be done in this drainage basin will be between years
10 and 19. The largest impact to the Troublesome Creek system will
likely be the increased flow during years 13 to 17 resulting from the
diversion of Upper Hickory Creek. On the average this additional flow
will be only about 4 cfs, but flood flows would result in a more signif-
icant addition. The added water would increase the level of the 100-
year floodplain in Troublesome Creek by 1 foot. Although some of the
area adjacent to the 100-year floodplain (as calculated without the
diversion) is scheduled to be mined during the time of the diversion,
the channel is fairly steep-walled and floodwater, even with the di-
verted flow, would not inundate the mining area.
Troublesome Creek flows into the Peace River on Farmland property.
The increased flow in Troublesome Creek (from the Hickory Creek diver-
sion) will be so small in comparison to the flow in Peace River that the
diversion will have no detectable effect on the river. This flow would
normally enter the river through Hickory Creek—about 1 mile downstream
of Troublesome Creek.
Hickory Creek
The drainage basin of Hickory Creek contains the areas designated
for: the central office for the mine, the beneficiation plant, the
clear water pond, and parts of clay settling areas I and IIB. The
western divide of Upper Hickory Creek basin is also to be realigned to
the west of its original location. However, the net change in the area
of the Hickory Creek drainage basin will be negligible, and stream flow
at the exit of Hickory Creek from the mine property will be about the
same after mining as before.
3-75
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Flows in Hickory Creek will be greatly altered during the mining of
its stream channel. In order to permit mining of portions of the
Hickory Creek floodplain, two stream diversions are planned for Hickory
Creek. Only about half the length of its original floodplain on the
Farmland property is to remain undisturbed. The biggest diversion will
be that from Upper Hickory Creek to Troublesome Creek across Sections 1
and 2, T35S R24E. The diversion will be made just below a preserved
section of the floodplain. The flow will be diverted for about 4 years
while the original floodplain is mined and reclaimed with a lake system.
This will deprive the floodplain of lower Hickory Creek of its usual
supply of water (about 4 cfs at the point of diversion). Dewatering of
the Surficial Aquifer when that area is mined (years 12-14) will further
deprive the system of its water supply, to the point that Hickory Creek
is likely to be dry at the property exit for a large part of the year
(i.e., a temporary loss of 6.2 cfs average flow). The other diversion
in the Hickory Creek basin will be to a tributary in Section 26, T34S
R34E. This tributary will be permanently relocated from a mineable area
to one that is to be otherwise undisturbed. The resultant differences
in flow are expected to be slight.
Oak Creek
The portions of Oak Creek to be preserved include most of the Oak
Creek Islands area and floodplain. However, parts of clay settling
areas I and IIB and all of settling area HA lie within this drainage
basin. Settling area HA lies just upstream of the Oak Creek Islands
area. Two diversions are planned in this area so that the 10.6 cfs
average flow can be maintained to Oak Creek Islands while settling area
II is constructed and the area to its south is mined. Flow to the
Islands area is currently ill-defined and variable. The proposed
diversions will stabilize flow at the upstream end of the Islands area.
The flow of Oak Creek should remain about what it currently is (15.8 cfs
at the outflow from the property).
The primary surface water quality impact associated with mining
would be the elevation of suspended sediment loads in the streams which
3-76
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flow from the site due to vegetation removal ahead of the mining oper-
ation. Farmland plans to limit the amount of cleared land ahead of the
mining operation to only that actually necessary (usually about 20 acres
at a given time). This should result in only minimal increases in
suspended sediment levels in site streams.
A temporary increase in the suspended sediment load of Oak Creek
will probably result from the planned dragline crossing of this creek in
mine years 4, 6, and 10. However, this impact should be minimal if, as
proposed by Farmland, such crossings are timed to coincide with dry, no
flow periods and the crossing areas are vegetated prior to the crossing
and returned to their original contours afterwards.
Spills of various materials might also affect water quality. The
potential effects of spills of gasoline and diesel fuel are primarily
controlled by evaporation losses. For spilled gasoline, almost total
evaporation might be expected within several hours. Approximately one-
half of a No. 2 fuel oil spill might evaporate in a similar amount of
time, while lesser amounts would evaporate for a No. 4 fuel oil spill.
The precise rate and total amount of evaporation is related to a number
of variables including air and water temperature, humidity, wind, and
condition of the spilled material. Typically, the bulk of oil com-
ponents subject to evaporation will be lost in the first 24 hours of the
spill.
Dredge Mining. The impacts associated with the disruption of surface
flows described above for dragline mining would also occur if the
Farmland deposit were dredge mined. However, dredge mining would
require that sufficient water levels be maintained in the active mining
area to support the dredge unit. When mining adjacent to undisturbed
areas (e.g., lower Hickory Creek), the water contained within the active
mining area would maintain the water level in the Surficial Aquifer and
thus its baseflow contribution to surface water flows in such areas.
Adverse water quality impacts could result from the release of turbid
water from the dredge pond to surface waters. Large amounts of such
water would have to be stored and handled using the dredge mining method.
3-77
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Bucketwheel Mining. Bucketwheel mining would have impacts on surface
water quantity and quality similar to those discussed under dragline
mining.
3.5.2.2.2 Matrix Transport
Slurry Matrix Transport (Farmland's Proposed Action). A break in a
slurry pipeline near a stream crossing could result in a dramatic
increase in flow and suspended solids content, and smaller increases in
pH, fluorides, Ra-226, specific conductance, and total dissolved solids
levels in the affected stream. However, the potential for such an
occurrence should be minimal if, as proposed by Farmland, double walled
pipelines equipped with cut-off valves and pressure sensitive alarms are
used at stream crossings.
Conveyor Matrix Transport. This alternative offers a potential water
quantity and quality improvement because of the reduction in spill
potential through the elimination of slurry pipelines. As indicated
above, spills of matrix material from slurry pipelines would increase
levels of conductivity, Ra-226, suspended solids, and total dissolved
solids. Much smaller increases might occur if matrix is lost from a
conveyor transport system.
Truck Matrix Transport. This alternative offers potential water quan-
tity and quality advantages similar to those which conveyor matrix
transport offers. The potential for spillage of matrix into surface
waters would probably be the least of all the matrix transport alter-
natives considered. The movement of heavy trucks along haul roads
could, however, result in increased suspended solids levels in creeks—
especially during periods of heavy rainfall when runoff would be high.
3.5.2.2.3 Matrix Processing
Conventional Matrix Processing (Farmland's Proposed Action). Conven-
tional matrix processing involves the separation of the matrix fractions
by washing and flotation methods. The waste streams from the plant
3-78
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consist primarily of sand and clay in slurry form. Some of the water
used in these slurry lines creates a potential for downstream flooding,
the extent of which would depend on the volume being pumped and the
duration of the break. Since such a break would have the greatest
affect at a stream crossing, Farmland plans to use double-walled pipe
culverts at all stream crossings and install pressure sensitive devices
that will sound an alarm should a failure in the inner pipe occur.
In the event of a break in any of the waste or water return pipe-
lines, a potential for degradation of surface water quality would
exist. The degradation would be greatest if a clay slurry pipeline
broke near a stream crossing. Such a break would greatly increase
suspended solids levels in the receiving stream. The use of Farmland's
preventive measures described above should minimize the potential for
such degradation to occur.
Dry Matrix Processing. Dry matrix processing would likely eliminate the
potential for the water quantity impacts discussed above. If the dry
processing technique involved only dry separation (i.e., waste sand and
clay would be rewetted and pumped to the disposal site following sepa-
ration) , the impacts would be the same as described above for conven-
tional matrix processing.
Dry matrix processing would also likely eliminate the potential for
water quality impacts associated with handling of the sand and clay
wastes generated.
3.5.2.2.4 Waste Sand and Clay Disposal
Sand-Clay Mixing (Farmland's Proposed Action). Farmland proposes to use
sand-clay mixing within mined areas as their primary waste disposal
technique. Use of this technique over 3915 acres of the site, as
planned by Farmland, will result in the creation of a land surface which
will maintain surface water flow from the site at about the existing
rate (see 3.5.2.2.7 Reclamation).
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Farmland also proposes to dispose of waste sand and clay in sepa-
rate impoundments. The 1078 acres of clay settling ponds which will be
created will remove this acreage from the surface water drainage basins
for the operational life of the mine. The clay impoundments will
receive a clay slurry at about 3 percent solids which eventually settle
to about 25-30 percent solids. During the time when an area is re-
ceiving clay slurry, the impoundment would contain material at a wide
range of densities—from near 30 percent to less than 3 percent solids.
Failures in the dikes used to impound these wastes have occurred in past
years, but since the implementation of the state construction and
inspection standards in 1971, no dam built by the phosphate industry has
failed. Strict compliance with the current standards should insure the
integrity of all dams proposed by Farmland. However, an estimate of the
maximum area which would be affected by a dam break has been made
(Farmland 1979a). The worst-case situation would involve a break in
Settling Area I, the largest (495 acres) undivided settling area pro-
posed for the operation. In estimating the area affected by a break in
the retention dam for this area, the following assumptions were made:
• the area is filled to its maximum operating capacity of 35 ft
above natural grade;
• the break occurs in the north side of the dam and clays escape
onto level terrain; and
• the clays are in a semi-solid state and form a slope of 1:1000
away from the breach in the dam.
Based on these assumptions, approximately two-thirds (or 11,500
acre-feet) of the impounded clays would escape and cover an area of
approximately 6 square miles. The assumption of level topography is, of
course, not strictly realistic. Because of the entrenched topography of
the onsite drainage courses, most of the clays released from a dam break
would probably find their way into Oak or Hickory Creek. Probably only
a few hundred acres of land would be affected, and the clay spill would
affect primarily the onsite and downstream stream courses.
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In comparison to the worst-case situation of a break in one of the
clay settling areas, the area affected by a break in the thickener berm
or a sand-clay retention dam would be much less. Only about 15 acre-
feet of clay suspension will be impounded above natural grade in the
thickener; therefore, even if all the above grade impounded clays
escaped, the released material would be only 0.13 percent of the ma-
terial released in the worst-case situation.
Because of the rapid consolidation of wastes projected for sand-
clay landfills, most of the wastes confined in these areas should be of
a higher density than the separately impounded clays. Based on data
presented by Farmland (1979a), this increase in density will result in a
decrease in volume on the order of 35 percent—largely because of the
greater degree of dewatering which will result from sand-clay mixing.
Thus, a break in a sand-clay mix disposal area dike would result in the
release of a smaller quantity of material than if a clay impoundment
dike failed. Applying the volume reduction factor to the preceeding
clay impoundment failure analysis, the amount released would be about
7500 acre-feet. The actual release would probably be less than this
estimate because of the smaller impountment acreages which will be
involved in the disposal of sand-clay mix.
Conventional Sand and Clay Disposal. The disposal of all sand and clay
wastes generated by the mine using conventional (separate) methods would
result in the entrainment of a larger amount of water than would sand-
clay mixing. This would result in a reduction in the potential need to
discharge from the recirculating water system. The large open ponds
which are characteristic of conventional clay disposal would also
provide greater surface area for evaporative water losses, further
reducing the potential need for a discharge, and would offer water
storage capacity not provided by the smaller dikes of sand-clay mix
areas.
If conventional sand and clay disposal techniques were used by
Farmland, water retention on the site (i.e., zero discharge of effluent)
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might be accomplished more effectively. On the other hand, the creation
of larger areas containing impounded clays would increase the proba-
bility of an accidental release which would have serious effects on
water quality. If Farmland were to dispose of all the waste clays in
such settling areas, approximately 57 percent (2500 acres) of the mined-
out area would contain impounded clays to a height of 35 ft above
natural grade. Since these areas would be compartmentized, a break
would not result in the release of such clays from the entire area.
Therefore, the impact should be comparable to that described for a break
in a dike of Farmland's proposed Area I. However, the probability of
such a break will be greater.
3.5.2.2.5 Process Water Sources
Groundwater Withdrawal (Farmland's Proposed Action). The withdrawal of
groundwater from deep (1400 ft) wells should not have any significant
effects on surface water quantity or quality in the vicinity of the
site.
Surface Water Impoundment. Surface waters impounded on the site for use
as process water would consist largely of stored flood flows. The dams
used for such storage would probably best operate with the normal level
at elevation 65 ft, allowing the 5 ft up to the 70 ft as emergency
capacity to catch any heavy rainfall periods. This 5 ft capacity would
be approximately 5300 acre-feet of water. The water available to be
collected in any major reservoir system depends upon available rainfall.
Farmland already plans to collect a nominal average of 10.6 cfs of
normal rainfall, and 18.6 cfs of the 25-year maximum flood flow. The
excess flow available from the site land area could be expected to be as
much as 6.6 cfs (normal rainfall) and 12.6 cfs (for a 25-year maximum
flood). Allowing for the minimum discharge of 2.6 and 3.7 cfs to Oak
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and Hickory Creeks, respectively, the potential reservoir gain, de-
pending upon rainfall intensity, would be:
2 Yr 5 Yr 25 Yr 100 Yr
Hickory Creek (Acre feet)— 61 489 1435 2347
Oak Creek (Acre feet)— 472 1045 2131 3445
These quantities allow for continuous normal stream flow as well as a
certain amount trapped by Farmland within its system. Converting the
above flows to million gallons per day (mgd) on a 365 day year, the
source volume would be:
2 Yr 5 Yr 25 Yr 100 Yr
Hickory Creek (Acre feet)— 0.05 0.44 1.28 2.10
Oak Creek (Acre feet)— 0.42 0.93 1.90 3.08
0.47 1.37' 3.18 5.18
Such storage would prevent flood flows from reaching the downstream
portions of the affected streams.
A benefit of this alternative would be its potential to store
excess clarified water from the recirculating water system, reducing the
need for a direct discharge to Oak Creek or Hickory Creek. However,
because of the relatively high nitrogen and phosphorus content of
Hickory and Oak Creeks (which would feed the reservoirs), the long
retention time of water in the reservoirs, and the fairly shallow depth
of the reservoirs, high algal productivity within the impoundment may
result. Potential water quality problems within an impoundment re-
sulting from such high plant productivity may include algal mats and
odors.
3.5.2.2.6 Water Management Plan
Discharge to Surface Waters (Farmland's Proposed Action). Farmland
proposes to utilize a water management plan which incorporates recircu-
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lation and reuse to a large degree. Normally, there will be no dis-
charges from the mine recirculating water system because retention areas
will have sufficient surge holding capacity to accommodate normal
process flow and rainfall variations. Water will be discharged to
Hickory Creek only during periods of heavy rainfall (Farmland 1979a).
The additional volume of water input to natural flows at those times
should not cause any significant flooding, etc., above that which would
normally occur downstream of the discharge point during such periods.
As indicated above, no discharge of effluent is anticipated under
normal rainfall conditions. However, under extreme rainfall conditions
excess water will be discharged into Hickory Creek from the clear water
pool, but only after flowing through the clay settling area. Bene-
ficiation plant effluent, including reagents used in the flotation
treatment, will be mixed with waste clays as these are slurried. The
reagents used and the ratio of dilution in the wastewater if they were
to pass through the beneficiation process without chemically reacting
would be as follows:
Reagent Consumption (gal/day) Ratio of Dilution
Sodium Hydroxide 5508 9,600:1
Fatty Acid 3917 13,500:1
Fuel Oil 5998 8,800:1
Sulfuric Acid 3794 13,900:1
Amine 6242 8,500:1
Kerosene 612 86,400:1
Most of the reagents should adsorb onto the clay particles and settle in
the disposal areas, leaving only trace amounts in the water.
Depending on flow in Hickory and/or Oak Creek, these discharges may
have some effect on water quality in these creeks. Table 3-12 (page 3-
63) presents a comparison of the water quality characteristics of slime
supernatant from 15 beneficiation plants in Florida with surface water
characteristics at the Farmland site. If discharges occur as planned
(i.e., primarily in response to heavy rainfall events), increases in
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the concentrations of selected water quality parameters might be ex-
pected. A comparison of the data in Table 3-12 indicates that increases
in the receiving water concentrations of specific conductance, fluoride
and sulfate would occur. During the high flow season, it is not ex-
pected that these increases would exceed water quality standards (Table
3-16). If these discharges occurred during the dry season, when no flow
conditions are common, the Florida fluoride standard might be exceeded.
Based on the Table 3-12 data, no other water quality standards are
expected to be exceeded due to the effluent discharge. A more recent
categorization of effluent from similar phosphate rock processing
plants by Ochsner and Blackwood (1978) (Table 3-17) leads to the same
conclusion.
Another constituent of concern is Ra-226. Mills, et al. (1977)
reviewed the beneficiation process with respect to radioactivity in
water. If the findings of that study are adjusted using the ratio of
central Florida matrix radioactivity to that of the Farmland site, the
following can be concluded:
• Most of the waste product radioactivity will be present in the
clay entrained water. For the Farmland site, this amounts to
approximately 3600 gpm of water at a Ra-226 concentration of
<2 pCi/1 (dissolved) and 50 pCi/1 (undissolved), the latter
value being highly dependent upon the total suspended solids
in the clay wastes.
• Although no chemical processes are used to treat the discharge
from clay settling areas, the concentration of Ra-226 will
normally be <1 pCi/1 due to removal of suspended solids by
settling and the incorporation of some dissolved material in
the settling floe.
The concentrations of Ra-226 in dissolved and undissolved fractions
of effluent from several clay impoundment effluents (EPA 1979b) have
been found to be generally about 0.7 pCi/1 (dissolved) and 0.6 pCi/1
(undissolved). Comparing these data with available data on surface
water Ra-226 concentrations in affected streams (Table 3-12) indicates
that Ra-226 concentrations will be higher than the receiving waters.
However, existing stream RA-226 levels may not be exceeded if plant
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Table 3-16. STATE AND FEDERAL WATER QUALITY CRITERIA AND STANDARDS.
Parameter
Florida
Class III Water
Standard
National Interim
Primary Drinking
Water Regulations
U.S. EPA
Water Quality
Criteria
Alkalinity,
Total as CaCO-
Aluminum
Ammonia (unionized)
Bacteriological
(Fecal colifonn)
20
1.5
0.02
200/100 ml
Color
Dissolved oxygen (min.) 5.0
Fluoride Marine only
Iron 1.0
Nitrate-Nitrogen
Oils and Grease -
pH (Std. units) 6.0-8.5
Phosphate, Total as P
Turbidity
1/100 ml
1.4
10
1.0 STU
20
0.02
200/100 ml
75 (Health)
5.0
0.3
10
0 (Domestic water supply)
5.0-9.0
units in milligrams/liter unless otherwise noted.
Source; Florida Administrative Code (Section 17-3.121); National
Interim Primary Drinking Water Regulations (40 CFR 141);
US EPA Quality Criteria for Water. 1976.
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Table 3-17. EFFLUENT CONCENTRATION OF SELECTED POLLUTANTS FROM
PHOSPHATE ROCK PROCESSING OPERATIONS IN FLORIDA
Constituent
Total Suspended Solids, mg/1
Phosphorus, mg/1
Fluoride, mg/1
pH, pH units
Maximum Daily Average Concentration
Low High Average
0.18 21.65 8.43
0.36 2.54 1.21
1.19 2.42 1.79
6.0 7.5
Source: Ochsner and Blackwood. 1978.
Source Assessment: Chemical and Fertilizer Mineral Industry.
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discharges occur as expected during periods of high creek flows. In
addition to Ra-226, Ra-228 levels will increase at discharge points.
Recent evidence (Michel and Moore 1980) indicates that the Ra-228/Ra-226
ratio may be above 2, which would mean that the 5.0 pCi/1 combined Ra-
228 and Ra-226 water quality standard might be exceeded at the discharge
point on occasion. The EPA effluent guideline for the phosphate in-
dustry is 9 pCi/1 of Ra-226.
Connector Wells. Use of connector wells to discharge excess noncon-
taminated water from the recirculating water system to deep aquifers
would reduce the potential for a surface water discharge and the incre-
mental increase in stream flow that such a discharge would produce.
3.5.2.2.7 Reclamation
Farmland's Proposed Reclamation Plan. As described under Farmland's
proposed waste sand and clay disposal plan, most (80 percent) of the
reclaimed mine site will be filled with a sand-clay mixture. A single
clay impoundment covering 583 acres will also remain, and 235 acres of
lakes will be formed. Farmland proposes to deposit sand-clay mix and to
grade overburden piles such that surface water will flow from these
areas to natural stream courses. The post-reclamation drainage pattern
planned for the site is shown in Figure 3-9.
The reclaimed surface soils will probably have infiltration rates
lower than the original soils; thus surface runoff will probably be
greater. However, additional retention and evaporation will occur from
the lakes and marshes created as part of the reclamation plan. Taking
these losses into account, an annual average decrease in surface water
flow on the order of 0.5 cfs is predicted for the entire site (Table 3-15)
The land cover established on the reclaimed site will be substan-
tially different from that now present. Improved pasture/agricultural
land will increase from 2416 acres at present to 4097 acres following
reclamation. Although the pasture areas will be planted with forage
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LEGEND
FIGURE 3-9. POST-RECLAMATION DRAINAGE PATTERN
THROUGH SAND-CLAY MIX AREAS ON THE
FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC. MINE SITE.
t/CM
HUM
SOURCE: FARMLAND INDUSTRIES. INC.. DRI SUPPLEMENT, AUGUST 1979
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crops, it is expected that the runoff from these areas will have higher
levels of suspended particulates and other parameters than at present.
The application of other materials (e.g., fertilizer) to these lands
would also result in increases in the concentrations of these materials
in runoff reaching streams leaving the site. If the pasture areas
support larger numbers of livestock than are currently present, levels
of additional parameters (e.g., coliforms) could also be raised.
Conventional Reclamation. Reclamation as conventionally practiced in
the Florida phosphate industry would result in the creation of about
2500 acres of plateau-like terrain (clay impoundments) at an elevation
of 35 ft above natural grade. Reestablishment of surface water flows
from these areas would not be as easily achieved as would be the case
for Farmland's proposed action. During the years that the dikes for
such impoundments were standing, rainfall would be entrapped with the
dewatering clays—virtually eliminating surface flows from these areas.
More extensive lake areas would also be likely using conventional
reclamation methods. These lake areas would further reduce surface
flows through retention and evaporation.
Conventional reclamation would produce a land surface which, to a
large extent, would be limited to use as pasture. Although some dif-
ferences may occur, surface water quality impacts would likely be
similar to those described for Farmland's proposed reclamation plan.
Natural Mine Cut Reclamation. Natural mine cut reclamation would
produce an uneven land surface with drainage from the site hampered by
numerous windrows and impounded water areas.
Natural mine cut reclamation would produce a land surface not
suitable for use as agricultural land, therefore the potential surface
water quality impacts resulting from such use would not occur. The
steep slopes of the windrows would tend to erode, creating high sus-
pended sediment levels in the impounded water areas; however, as natural
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revegetation progressed, these levels would diminish. Over time,
surface water quality would probably improve to at least existing
levels.
3.6 AQUATIC ECOLOGY
3.6.1 THE AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT
The aquatic ecosystems in the vicinity of the proposed Farmland
mine include the Peace River, located along the eastern property bound-
ary, and Troublesome, Hickory, and Oak Creeks, all of which drain
portions of the site and eventually empty into the Peace River. All of
these systems are greatly affected by the amount of rainfall received.
Heaviest rainfall occurs in June-September, with November-December being
the driest period.
Oak and Hickory Creeks, which will be directly affected by the
proposed action, are intermittent-flowing during the wet season and
pooled or dry in the upper reaches during much of the rest of the year.
The resulting range of flows produces a stressed environment in terms of
water quantity and quality, bottom type, detrital loading, and limited
movement of stream organisms.
3.6.1.2 Aquatic Biota
The aquatic biota of the site are composed primarily of species
which can colonize upstream areas quickly or can withstand the stresses
imposed by intermittent streamflow. The intermittent nature of Oak and
Hickory Creeks limits movement of fish and mobile invertebrates to those
periods when water is flowing or at least present in the streambed. The
various groups which comprise the site's aquatic biota are described
below.
3.6.1.2.1 Benthos
Three major groups of benthic invertebrates dominated collections
made on the Farmland site. These were the oligochaetes (i.e., aquatic
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earthworms), dipterans (i.e., flies, midges, and mosquitoes), and
molluscs (i.e., snails and mussels).
Oligochaetes were abundant or common in all streams, typically
constituting over 25 percent of the benthic organisms collected and at
several stations accounting for over 50 percent. Certain oligochaetes
are often associated with polluted water, but in this case their abun-
dance appears to reflect a substrate rich in organic matter and water
that is occasionally low in dissolved oxygen.
Over 100 dipteran taxa were collected on the site, making this
order of aquatic insects the best represented major group. Chironomid
(midge) larvae were found at practically all stations. They were able
to withstand harsh -conditions and were frequently found together with
oligochaetes in mucky bottoms. Twenty-eight mollusc taxa were also
collected on the site.
3.6.1.2.2 Fish
A total of 33 fish species were collected on or adjacent to the
Farmland property from June 1977 to May 1979. Mosquitofish and least
killifish comprised over 80 percent of the fish collected and were
ubiquitous in the aquatic habitat. These two species are tolerant of
the fluctuating and stressful conditions of their habitat and small
enough (less than 2 inches) to move about in shallow water. Several
commercial and game fish species were also collected (e.g., white
catfish, brown bullhead, bluegill, largemouth bass, spotted sunfish, and
redear sunfish).
Endangered and Threatened Species. In May 1980, EPA Provided the U.S.
Fish and Wildlife Service (U.S. F&WS) Jacksonville, Florida office with
a description of the proposed Farmland project and requested a list of
endangered and threatened species which might occur in the project's
area of influence. U.S. F&WS responded to the EPA's request with a
listing of species believed to be present in the area (U.S. F&WS 1980).
No fish were among the species listed.
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The Florida Game and Freshwater Fish Commission (1979) and Florida
Committee on Rare and Endangered Plants and Animals (Gilbert 1978) also
list species considered to be endangered, threatened, or rare in Flor-
ida. None of the fish species listed by these organizations were found
during sampling efforts in streams on the Farmland property or in the
Peace River adjacent to the property.
3.6.2 ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES OF THE ALTERNATIVES
3.6.2.1 The No Action Alternative
Under the no action alternative the aquatic environment with its
alternating hydroperiod and tolerant organisms is expected to remain
essentially as described in Section 3.6.1; however, succession of
marshes into bayheads, etc., will modify some aquatic habitats in time.
Also, any long-term change in rainfall patterns could affect aquifer
levels and result in a shift in the existing plant and animal communities.
3.6.2.2 The Action Alternatives, Including The Proposed Action
3.6.2.2.1 Mining
Dragline Mining (Farmland's Proposed Action). The potential effects of
Farmland's proposed mine on the site's aquatic ecosystem are discussed
in this section. The effects of three impact-producing actions—destruction
of aquatic habitat, alterations of stream flow, and increased turbidity—
are described.
Destruction of Aquatic Habitats
Over 1 mile of Hickory Creek streambed will be destroyed due to
mining during years 12-14. As a result, all animals that were not able
to escape, all aquatic plants, and the physical features constituting
the aquatic habitat will be destroyed. Aquatic habitat will be replaced
in this area, for reclamation plans call for the restoration of existing
flows following mining (see 3.6.2.2.7 Reclamation). Flow is scheduled
to be returned to the area 4 years after mining is complete.
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Oak Creek will be only minimally affected through the destruction
of aquatic habitat since only short sections of the creek will be mined
in years 4 and 10, and diversion channels will return water to Oak Creek
immediately downstream of the mining activity, thus assuring normal
stream flow into Oak Creek Islands. The portion of the creek mined in
year 4 is scheduled to be reclaimed by year 10; the area mined in year
10 is scheduled to be reclaimed by year 15. As for Hickory Creek,
aquatic habitat will be replaced in the Oak Creek drainage system
through reclamation (see 3.6.2.2.7 Reclamation).
Dragline crossings of the preserved section of Oak Creek are
scheduled to be made during the dry season at only one location.
Therefore, little additional aquatic habitat will be lost, and only
minor downstream turbidity should result.
Alteration of Stream Flow
Stream flow reductions resulting from mining (see section 3.6.1)
may result in the loss of fish and invertebrates that become concen-
trated in the remaining pools and wet streambed. In addition, the
macrophyte abundance could be reduced, resulting in a loss of habitat
for fish and invertebrates. The severity of the effect of flow reduc-
tions depends on the season in which they occur. Hickory Creek, which
will be most affected by flow reduction, is already an intermittent
stream. The plants and animals of such systems are very adaptable to
naturally changing water levels (Berra and Gunning 1970; Grossman, et
al. 1974; Larimore, et al. 1959). If flow reductions occur during a
time of no stream flow, the fish will have moved downstream or into the
remaining pools. The insect larvae may have increasingly become part of
the drift as the flow slows (Minchall and Winger 1968); oligochaetes and
molluscs will attempt to penetrate into the moist bottom but will be
lost from the area that is mined. However, if stream flow is dras-
tically reduced at a time of high flow, the fish and invertebrates will
not have an opportunity to move out of the area and may become stranded,
as was observed by Kroger (1973). Because of the natural resiliency of
the local fish, macroinvertebrates and macrophytes, effects of the
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stream flow reduction on these organisms are judged to be temporary and
minimal—lasting from 1 year in Oak Creek to 4 years in Hickory Creek.
Increased Turbidity
A potential for turbid runoff reaching aquatic habitats will exist
during land clearing and operation of the mine. The ecological effects
of high levels of suspended solids or turbidity on aquatic organisms are
described by Cairns, et al. (1972) as: (1) clogging or irritation of
gills; (2) blanketing or sedimentation; (3) loss of light penetration;
(4) adsorption and/or absorption of various chemicals; and (5) avail-
ability as a surface for growth of microorganisms. But turbidity does
not persist for long distances downstream, nor does it remain in the
water at the discharge (Burns 1972; Barton 1977). Further, fish can
either avoid high turbidity levels or can withstand them for short
periods (Ritchie 1972). Although some increases in turbidity are
expected, impacts on aquatic organisms due to the discharge of turbid
water are judged to be temporary, and the probability of the release of
any highly turbid water is small. However, some discharge of moderately
turbid water is not unexpected.
Dredge Mining. The impacts associated with the destruction of aquatic
habitat described above for dragline mining would also be expected with
dredge mining. The use of dredge mining would, however, reduce the flow
reduction impacts resulting from dewatering. Dredge mining would
require that water levels be maintained in the active mining area; thus
the surrounding Surficial Aquifer and its contributions to the base flow
of adjacent creeks would be maintained. However, there would be an
increased possibility for the release of turbid water into surface
waters because of the greater amount of such water that would have to be
handled and stored.
Bucketwheel Mining. Bucketwheel mining would result in impacts on
aquatic ecology similar to those described for dragline mining.
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. 3.6,2.2.2 Matrix Transport
Slurry Matrix Pumping (Farmland's Proposed Action). The proposed slurry
matrix transport system presents the potential for pipeline leaks or
breaks which could cause increased turbidities and resultant adverse
impacts on aquatic biota in downstream segments of Oak or Hickory Creek.
However, if double-walled pipes and other safety features are used where
the matrix pipelines cross the creeks (as Farmland proposes) the poten-
tial will be minimized.
Conveyor Matrix Transport. The use of conveyors for the matrix trans-
port would reduce the potential for matrix-cuased turbidities sedi-
mentation in creeks along the transport routes and thus the potential
for adverse impacts on aquatic biota. This assumes, however, that such
a conveyor would be covered (at least in the area of a stream crossing)
and designed to prevent spillage. Matrix which spilled from the con-
veyor into a stream would result in impacts comparable to those which
would occur if a pipeline leak occurred near a stream. Spillage from a
conveyor on upland areas would be less likely to reach a stream than if
a matrix pipeline break occurred at the same location.
Truck Matrix Transport. The use of trucks for matrix transport would
offer potential advantages similar to those described for conveyor
matrix transport. The potential for spillage of matrix into surface
waters (and thus aquatic habitats) would probably be the least of all
the matrix transport alternatives considered. The movement of heavy
trucks along haul roads could, however, result in increased turbidities
in creeks—especially during periods of heavy rainfall when runoff would
be high.
3.6.2.2.3 Matrix Processing
Conventional Matrix Processing (Farmland's Proposed Action). Conven-
tional matrix processing requires that large volumes of groundwater be
used in the separation of the matrix from the waste sand and clay. This
water is normally recycled, so that a discharge to surface waters is not
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required. However, should the recirculating water system become over-
loaded because of heavy rainfall, a discharge to surface waters would be
required—resulting in increases in pollutant levels in Hickory Creek
(the primary discharge point). Since such discharges would occur during
periods of high rainfall (and high flow), the impact on aquatic biota
should be minimal.
Dry Matrix Processing. Dry matrix processing would eliminate the need
for the large quantities of water required for conventional matrix
processing. This could result in the elimination of the need to dis-
charge to surface waters and thus eliminate impacts on aquatic biota.
3.6.2.2.4 Waste Sand and Clay Disposal
Sand-Clay Mixing (Farmland's Proposed Action). Farmland proposes to
dispose of most of the waste sand and clay through the sand-clay mix
technique. Separate sand and clay disposal areas will also be required,
with waste clays to be impounded in diked areas covering 1078 acres
during most of the life of the mine. These large areas will contain
clays at various densities, ranging from about 17 percent solids to less
than 3 percent solids. Should a dike failure occur in an impoundment
dike, this material could flow into natural stream courses and produce
tremendous impacts on aquatic biota. A worst-case analysis of the
result of a dike failure in one of Farmland's proposed impoundments is
presented in Section 3.5.2.2.4.
A study of the effects of such a break revealed that 90 percent of
the fish and most of the macroinvertebrates (except for oligochaetes and
chironomid larvae) in the affected waters were killed by mechanical
suffocation (Ware 1969; Chapman 1973). However, recovery of stream
faunal populations was judged to be rapid by both investigators.
Conventional Sand and Clay Disposal. Conventional sand and clay dis-
posal would result in the creation of about 2500 acres of separately
impounded clays during the life of the mine (compared to 1078 with
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Farmland's proposed technique). This would result in the creation of
additional retention dikes and thus increase the probability of a dike
failure which would have tremendous impacts on aquatic biota. The large
clay settling areas used in conventional clay disposal would consume
water via adsorption and evaporation thus reducing the need to discharge
excess water to surface waters. Conventional clay disposal might also
result in a reclamation plan that would create more acres of lakes on
the site, thus increasing the amount of aquatic habitat over that which
will result from the proposed action.
3.6.2.2.5 Process Water Sources
Groundwater Withdrawal (Farmland's Proposed Action). The major source
of water for the proposed mine will be from onsite deep wells. The
production wells will be drilled to an approximate depth of 1400 ft and
cased to about 250 ft. Since the drawdown resulting from pumping must
meet the requirements of the SWFWMD, the operation of these wells
should have little impact on the surrounding aquatic habitats.
Surface Water Impoundment. The creation of surface water impoundments
for the storage of runoff from the site for use as process water would
provide more than 1000 acres of lacustrine habitat. However, the
intermittent creek ecosystems within areas of Oak Creek Island to be
preserved under the proposed action would be cleared for reservoir
construction. Also, downstream sections of Hickory and Oak Creeks would
no longer receive normal flood flows resulting in a shift in species
composition from those plants and animals tolerant of flooding and
dessication to those needing more stable conditions.
3.6.2.2.6 Water Management Plan
Discharge to Surface Waters. Under Farmland's proposed water management
plan, no discharge of effluent is anticipated under normal rainfall
conditions until the catchment area increases to over 2500 acres.
However, under extreme rainfall conditions a discharge could be required
prior to that time. In this event, excess water will be discharged into
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Hickory Creek from the clear water pool, but only after flowing through
the clay settling area. Beneficiation plant effluent, including re-
agents used in the flotation treatment, will be mixed with waste clays
as these are slurried. The reagents should adsorb onto the clay par-
ticles and settle in the disposal areas, leaving only trace amounts in
the water. Some of the constituents of the effluent (when discharged)
can be approximated from discharges of existing phosphate mines. Mean
values (±1 S.D.) are: total suspended solids - 12.4 ± 9.8 mg/1; total
phosphorus - 1.3 ± 0.5 mg/1; fluoride - 2.2 ± 0.7 mg/1. Domestic sewage
from the mine will be treated to remove 90 percent of the BOD,, and
solids before entering the water system.
The effects of effluent discharge from the sand-clay mix areas on
the aquatic biota are judged to be minimal for several reasons. Primary
among them is the fact that there normally will be no effluent dis-
charge. When effluent is discharged at times of rainfall in excess of
the system's surge capacity, the receiving stream will be flowing
rapidly, thus diluting the effluent. Two of the three effluent para-
meters described are within values measured in local surface waters.
The third parameter, fluoride, fits most of the criteria for a poten-
tially important pollutant (Groth 1975), but the concentrations released
will be only slightly higher than those in the receiving water.
Connector Wells. The use of connector wells to dispose of Surficial
Aquifer water from mine pit dewatering would decrease the net property
discharge to surface waters by the amount which the connector wells
could drain from the advancing mining area. While this would reduce the
volume of water discharged from the property, the concentration of
contaminants in any discharge would not likely be lowered.
3.6.2.2.7 Reclamation
Farmland's Proposed Reclamation Plan. Farmland's proposed reclamation
plan is designed to restore surface flows (and thus aquatic habitats) to
areas as soon as practicable after mining is complete. Hickory Creek
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will be mined during years 12-14, while Oak Creek will be mined in years
4 and 10.
Farmland indicates that flow will be returned to the current
Hickory Creek channel area in year 16, 4 years after mining within the
area begins. A lake system will be created through which Hickory Creek
will be rerouted, as shown in Figure 2-38 (page 2-83). The upper
portion of this 140-acre area will consist of a series of finger lakes
forming a meandering channel for the creek. The lower portion of the
lake system will consist of an open lake about 600 ft wide and 3000 ft
long.
Flow will be returned to Oak Creek following the completion of
reclamation in Special Mix Area 2 in year 15. The flow through this
area will be through a series of meandors created by the spoils piles.
This arrangement will provide maximum area in the restructured flood-
plain for providing the water retention and nutrient assimilation
functions characteristic of such areas.
A land and lake area with extensive littoral zones will be created
as a result of mining during the last years of operation (Figure 2-41).
Mining depths and the groundwater table in the area are such that the
maximum water depth in these lakes should be about 15 ft. Of the 368
acres included in this area, approximately 50 percent of the total
surface area will be covered by water and 50 percent by land.
As the aquatic habitats described above are created, recolonization
by aquatic biota will begin to occur. Periphytqn will likely be the
first to recoIonize, followed by insect larvae, macrophytes, fish
(especially Gambusia affinis and Heterandria formusa) and molluscs
(Grossman, et al. 1974). Some studies (e.g., Larimore, et al. 1967;
Gunning and Berra 1969; Berra and Gunning 1970) suggest that such
recolonization may proceed rapidly, but the actual rate which will occur
cannot be stated.
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Conventional Reclamation. The aquatic habitats created by conventional
reclamation (i.e., reclamation of separate sand and clay disposal areas
and mined land) would consist largely of lake areas scattered throughout
those areas of the site not covered with impounded clays. Assuming that
one half of these areas on the Farmland site were reclaimed as lakes,
their combined acreage would be about 1000 acres. This would provide
nearly four times the lacustrine habitat that will be created by Farm-
land' s proposed reclamation plan. However, conventional reclamation
would not result in the creation of meandering channels and marsh areas
that are part of Farmland's proposed plan, for most of the site (about
2500 acres) would be covered with settled clay to an elevation of about
35 ft above existing grade.
Natural Mine Cut Reclamation. With natural mine cut reclamation, mined
out areas of the site would be left ungraded. The resultant topography
would be very uneven, comprised of overburden windrows and furrows.
Water accumulating in these furrows would form many interconnected
channels and pools, creating a diverse shallow-water aquatic habitat.
The depth of these water areas would be dependent upon the type of waste
disposal technique used during the operation of the mine. If sand-clay
mix were placed into the furrows (as Farmland proposes to do) the depth
would be less than if sand and clay had been disposed of by conventional
methods (i.e., separately). In either case, filling of these habitats
would occur over time because of sedimentation and plant succession.
The result would be a change from open water habitat to marsh and swamp
habitat.
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3.7 TERRESTRIAL ECOLOGY
3.7.1 THE AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT
3.7.1.1 Vegetation Types
The terrestrial ecosystem of the proposed Farmland mine site is
comprised of nine vegetation types* (Figure 3-10). The acreage occupied
by each type is as follows:
% of
Type Acreage Total
Pasture 2416 26
Citrus Groves 1917 25
Early Successional 153 2
Pine Flatwoods-Palmetto Range 937 12
Coniferous Upland Forest 62 1
Hardwood Upland Forest 417 5
Mixed Upland Forest 311 4
Freshwater Swamp 1205 15
Freshwater Marsh 392 5
Total 7810
Nearly 55 percent (4333 acres) of the site has been drained and/or
cleared for development of improved pasture or citrus groves. The
citrus groves have been established on the highest and driest portions
of the site. Most of the property that has been converted into improved
pasture was originally occupied by pine flatwoods. Most of the re-
maining pine flatwoods and other upland forest types on the site are
also heavily grazed by cattle. The least disturbed natural vegetation
associations on the site are primarily confined to wetlands and to
floodplain areas bordering the major stream courses.
3.7.1.2 Principal Wildlife Habitats
Four principal wildlife habitats are currently found on the site.
These habitats have been classified as ruderal, forest, wooded swamp,
and freshwater marsh.
*Using the State of Florida (1976) criteria of the Florida Land Use and
Cover Classification System (FLUCCS).
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VEGETATION TYPE
URBAN OR BUILT-UP
PASTURE
CITRUS GROVES
PINE FLATWOODS-PALMETTO RANGE
OTHER CONIFEROUS UPLAND FOREST
f-
ES«62)
VEGETATION TYPE
OTHER HARDWOOD UPLAND FOREST
MDCED UPLAND FOREST
FRESHWATER SWAMP
FRESHWATER MARSH
EARLY SUCCESSION AL (OTHER AGRICULTURAL)
2,000 4,000
FIGURE 3-10. VEGETATION TYPES ON THE FARMLAND
INDUSTRIES, INC. MINE SITE.
SOURCE: FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC., HARDEE COUNTY MASTER PLAN, JUNE 1979
SCALE IN FEET
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3.7.1.2.1 Ruderal Habitat
Approximately 69 percent (5423 acres) of the site is occupied by
this habitat type. The FLUCCS types included in this classification are
citrus groves, improved pasture, pine flatwoods/palmetto range, and
early successional stages. This habitat is created as the result of
continual modification of the natural plant communities for agricultural
purposes; thus, this habitat has the least value to wildlife of the four
principal habitats on the site. Species typically occurring in this
habitat included the mourning dove, cattle egret, Florida sandhill
crane, common crow, loggerhead shrike, Virginia opossum, raccoon, nine-
banded armadillo, white-tailed deer, wild hog, eastern cottontail, and
fox squirrel. Wildlife species were most frequently observed in por-
tions of this habitat in close proximity to the other less disturbed
habitat types.
3.7.1.2.2 Forest Habitat
Forest habitat covers approximately 10 percent (790 acres) of the
site. Hammocks and forested floodplains comprise this habitat. About
82 percent of the area classified as forest habitat support a hardwood
forest, with the remaining 18 percent supporting a mixed hardwood/
coniferous or pure coniferous forest. This habitat is used to some
extent by the majority of wildlife species occurring on the site. The
forest habitat provides essential escape cover and travel corridors for
species foraging in the more open ruderal habitat, and also provides
nesting cover for many of the resident bird species. Species typically
occurring in this habitat included the yellow-billed cuckoo, pileated
woodpecker, red-bellied woodpecker, downy woodpecker, blue jay, tufted
titmouse, Carolina wren, white-eyed vireo, gray squirrel, nine-banded
armadillo, and white-tailed deer. The forests on the Peace River
floodplain, on Oak Creek Islands, and along Brushy Creek provide the
best forest habitat for wildlife on the site.
3.7.1.2.3 Wooded Swamps Habitat
This habitat is comprised of the bayheads and hardwood swamps which
are scattered throughout the site region and occupy about 15 percent
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(1205 acres) of the site. These scattered swamps and bayheads are often
surrounded by extensive pasture or rangeland, thus providing essential
cover for wildlife foraging in the pastures and rangeland. Species
frequently observed in this habitat included the white-tailed deer,
raccoon, wild hog, pileated woodpecker, and blue jay. Trapping of the
bayheads and hardwood swamps indicated that these areas supported a
higher density of small mammals in comparison to the other habitats on
the site. The apparent higher population density of small mammals may
be attributable to a lower level of livestock grazing in this habitat as
compared to the intensity of grazing in the other habitats in which
trapping was undertaken.
3.7.1.2.4 Freshwater Marsh Habitat
Marshes occupy about 5 percent (392 acres) of the site. While
drainage, fire prevention, and other agricultural activities have
probably had an effect on the ecology of the marshes on the site, these
areas still provide nesting and/or roosting cover for a variety of bird
species and breeding and/or feeding habitat for a variety of reptiles
and amphibians, and are also used by a variety of mammalian species.
3.7.1.3 Game and Commercial Furbearing Species
The site provides habitat for a variety of game and commercial
furbearing species. The most abundant species are generally those whose
habitat is formed by early successional stage plant communities and
forest communities. Field surveys indicate that the commonly occurring
game and commercial furbearing species on the site are the eastern
cottontail, Virginia opossum, bobcat, raccoon, gray squirrel, wild hog,
white-tailed deer, bobwhite, mourning dove, and wood duck. Other less
commonly occurring species include the marsh rabbit, Sherman's fox
squirrel, red fox, gray fox, striped skunk, river otter, king rail, wild
turkey, and mottled duck.
3.7.1.4 Threatened and Endangered Species - Federal
In May 1980, EPA provided the U.S. F&WS Jacksonville, Florida
office with a description of the Farmland project and requested a list
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of endangered and threatened species which might occur in the project's
area of influence. U.S. F&WS responded to the EPA request with the
following listing of species believed to be present in the area (U.S.
F&WS 1980):
Bald eagle - Endangered
Red-cockaded woodpecker - Endangered
American alligator - Threatened
Eastern indigo snake - Threatened
Arctic peregrine falcon - Endangered
The occurrence of several of these species in the area was docu-
mented during field studies for the Farmland project. The observations
were as follows:
Species
American alligator
Eastern indigo snake
Southern bald eagle
Habitat/Location Status
Peace River and Threatened
Hickory Creek
Two (2) sightings in Threatened
mesic woodlands on the
site; one (1) road-
killed adjacent to
citrus grove on the site.
One (1) sighting over Endangered
a freshwater marsh on
the site and one (1)
sighting near the
Peace River.
All but the bald eagle are believed to be resident on the Farmland
site. Figure 3-11 shows the locations of sightings of endangered and
threatened species on the Farmland property. A summary discussion of
each of these species' habitat requirements and the status of their
populations in the site region is presented in the following paragraphs.
3.7.1.4.1 Bald Eagle
The bald eagle is usually found in riparian habitats, associated
with coasts, rivers, and lakes. The species usually nests near large
bodies of water, although in interior Florida it will occasionally nest
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AREAS Oh (.F
WADIM, BIRD CONCENTRATIONS
FLORIDA SANDHILL CRANE
I * 1 1 CIPHER TORTOISE
S. \\1 AMERICAN ALLIGATOR
INPIV1DLAL SICIMTIM.S
FS SHERMAN'S MIX SOI 'IRREL
BE SOI THERN BALD EACLE
WS WOOD STORK
§Q I LQRIDA SANDHILL CRANt
A A AMERICAN ALLIGATOR
FIGURE 3-11. LOCATIONS OF RARE AND ENDANGERED FAUNA SIGHTINGS
ON THE FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC. MINE SITE.
(.OPIIER TORTOISK
1C I-ASTFRN INDK.OSSAKH
0 2,000 4,000
SOURCE: FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC., DRI, JUNE 1979
(MODIFIED BY WOODWARD-CLYDE CONSULTANTS)
SCALE IN FEET
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on marshes and ponds far from expanses of open water. The bald eagle
occurs on the site as a transient and such occurrences are expected to
be infrequent. The Florida bald eagle population has declined at least
50 percent in the last 30 years (Palmer 1979), and Layne, et al. (1977)
estimated the total population for the western peninsular Florida region
to be between 169 and 176. There are no known active bald eagle nest
sites in Hardee County (Palmer 1979).
3.7.1.4.2 Red-cockaded Woodpecker
The red-cockaded woodpecker is resident in Hardee County. The red-
cockaded woodpecker is generally an inhabitant of open pine woods and
usually constructs its nesting cavity in mature pine trees. Due to past
harvesting of pine trees, there are few mature pine trees on the pro-
posed site. No red-cockaded woodpeckers were observed during field
studies; and because of the absence of mature pines, it is highly
unlikely that the species would be resident on the site.
3.7.1.4.3 American Alligator
The alligator is an inhabitant of river systems canals, lakes,
swamps, bayous, and coastal marshes. The alligator is a commonly
occurring species on the site and Layne, et al. (1977) reported the
species to be generally common throughout the western peninsular Florida
region. Alligator populations have been increasing substantially from
the low levels reached in the late 1950s and early 1960s. The U.S. Fish
and Wildlife Service currently estimates the Florida population to be
slightly in excess of 400,000 (Palmer 1979).
3.7.1.4.4 Eastern Indigo Snake
The indigo snake occupies a variety of habitats ranging from dry,
sandy pine-oak communities to moist tropical hammocks. The species is
most suited to mesic environments, and its common occurrence in sand-
hills and other xeric habitats is possible only where gopher tortoise
burrows and other subterranean cavities are available for shelter from
the heat (McDiarmid 1978). In the Hardee County region it has been
recorded most often from live oak hammocks, old fields, pine flatwoods,
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and oak-pine sandhills (Layne, et al. 1977). Gopher tortoise burrows
and other subterranean cavities are commonly used as dens for egg laying
by the indigo snake, and the continuing decline of the gopher tortoise
is probably having an adverse effect on indigo snake populations. The
indigo snake appears to be a commonly occurring species on the site.
Layne, et al. (1977) reported the species to be generally uncommon
throughout the western peninsular Florida region. The indigo snake
population appears to be in a continuing decline because of habitat loss
and illegal collection by snake fanciers or merchants.
3.7.1.4.5 Arctic Peregrine Falcon
The peregrine falcon only occurs in Florida as a wintering species.
Florida's coastal areas are the principal wintering areas for the
peregrine falcon.
3.7.1.5 Endangered and Threatened Species and Species of Special
Concern - State
Additional species observed on the site that have been classified
as endangered, threatened, or of special concern by the Florida Game and
Freshwater Fish Commission (1979) are listed below:
Species Classification
Wood stork Endangered
Florida sandhill crane Threatened
Gopher tortoise Special Concern
Florida burrowing owl Special Concern
Little blue heron Special Concern
Snowy egret Special Concern
Louisiana heron Special Concern
Figure 3-11 shows the locations of sightings of these species on the
Farmland property. A summary discussion of each of these species and
their habitat requirements is provided in the following paragraphs.
3.7.1.5.1 Wood Stork
The wood stork is a commonly occurring species on the site. There
is an active wood stork nesting colony located in Hardee County about 20
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to 30 miles east of the site. The wood stork forages in freshwater and
brackish wetlands and will travel as much as 60 miles to secure food for
its young. Preferred feeding sites are freshwater marshes, flooded
pastures, and ditches. The wood stork's survival is dependent upon vast
expanses of wetlands capable of producing local concentrations of fish
through established patterns of drying and flooding. Wetland drainage
and manipulation of water levels are believed to be largely responsible
for the decline in the Florida wood stork population.
3.7.1.5.2 Florida Sandhill Crane
The Florida sandhill crane is a commonly occurring species on the
site. The species is locally common in areas of suitable habitat in the
western peninsular Florida region. The Florida sandhill crane prefers
open habitats and is found primarily in wet and dry prairies, improved
cattle pastures, and shallow marshes or lakes with sparse emergent
vegetation surrounded by grasslands.
3.7.1.5.3 Gopher Tortoise
The gopher tortoise is an uncommon species on the site. The gopher
tortoise is an inhabitant of live oak hammocks, sand pine scrub, pine-
turkey oak, and various successional types of xeric ruderal habitats.
Its principal habitat requirements include dry, well-drained sandy soils
and.good herbaceous cover on which to feed.
3.7.1.5.4 Florida Burrowing Owl
The Florida burrowing owl is rare on the site. The burrowing owl
is a resident of grasslands and dry prairies or any well-drained sandy
ground with sparse growth.
3.7.1.5.5 Little Blue Heron, Snowy Egret, and Louisiana Heron
The little blue heron, snowy egret, and Louisiana heron are all
species of wading birds that are found in a variety of coastal and
freshwater wetlands. Only the little blue heron commonly occurs on the
site.
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3.7.2 ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES OF THE ALTERNATIVES
3.7.2.1 The No Action Alternative
Under the no action alternative the terrestrial ecology of the
Farmland site should continue to remain as described in Section 3.7.1.
Most of the site would continue to be used for agricultural purposes.
Presently, almost 56 percent (4333 acres) of the site has been drained
and/or cleared for citrus groves, truck crops, or improved pasture.
Another 173 acres consists of old fields, ditches, roads, rights-of-way,
and artificial ponds. The uncleared portions of the site consist of
about 4600 acres of pine flatwoods and other upland forest types and
about 3650 acres of marshes and forested wetland and floodplain areas
bordering the major stream courses. These uncleared areas are also used
for cattle grazing. The U.S. Soil Conservation Service recommends that
large ranches in Hardee County maintain two-thirds of their land in
native range in order to balance improved pasture acreage. If these
recommendations were followed in managing the site property, no addi-
tional clearing would be required.
3.7.2.2 The Action Alternatives, Including The Proposed Action
3.7.2.2.1 Mining
Dragline Mining (Farmland's Proposed Action). Terrestrial biological
communities will be affected by the following activities associated with
dragline mining of phosphate at the Farmland site:
• clearing and grubbing
• excavation, mining, overburden deposition, and dewatering
• development of roads, railspurs, parking facilities, various
settling ponds, and powerlines
• human activity associated with construction and operation
activities
These activities will have direct physical impacts on the site's
various biological communities. These impacts will also result in
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changes in the habitats present and, consequently, alter the area's
wildlife populations.
Acreage Altered
About 68 percent (5280 acres) of the mine property will be dis-
turbed during the life of the mine. The site acreages of each vege-
tation type which would be affected are as follows:
Acres Acres Percent
FLUCCS Type Disturbed Undisturbed Disturbed
Pasture 1960 456 81%
Citrus 1757 160 90%
Early Successional 95 58 62%
Pine Flatwoods-Palmetto Range 583 354 62%
Coniferous Upland Forest 15 47 24%
Hardwood Upland Forest 230 187 55%
Mixed Upland Forest 35 276 11%
Freshwater Swamp 320 885 27%
Freshwater Marsh 285 107 73%
Total 5280 2530 68%
A corridor for dragline crossings will also be estabished in the
untnined segment of Oak Creek downstream of the Oak Creek Islands (Figure
2-15, page 2-23). This will result in the removal of 10 acres of
vegetation and will disrupt the habitat continuity of this otherwise
undisturbed' area.
The significance of the impact on the terrestrial ecosystem re-
sulting from the removal of the various vegetative communities depends
to a large extent on the overall portion of each community that will be
removed. The freshwater swamp and marsh and upland forest communities
provide a diversity of wildlife habitats, and their loss will have a
more significant effect on terrestrial ecology of the area than will the
loss of the agricultural and range communities. The species diversity
and productivity of each community affected, as well as its replace-
ability, are also important considerations in addressing the signif-
icance of the impact. The significance of the impact may also vary
depending on whether it is considered from a regional or local perspective.
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The regional significance of the anticipated impacts was -assessed
on the basis of the land use characteristics within Hardee County as
described in the report titled "Natural Resource Factors Comprehensive
Plan Hardee County, Florida" (Adley Associates, Inc. 1979). All of the
communities that will be affected by the construction and operation of
the mine are common in the county. The proposed development will result
in the eventual removal of 1757 acres (2.5 percent) of the 68,838 acres
of citrus groves or nurseries; 583 acres (0.4 percent) of the 145,195
acres of herbaceous (palmetto) range; 2055 acres (2.0 percent) of the
102,653 acres of the pasture/cropland; 280 acres (10.3 percent) of the
2714 acres of upland forestlands*; and 605 acres (0.8 percent) of the
78,200 acres of wetlands in Hardee County. Much of the loss of these
plant communities will occur gradually over the life of the mine, so
that the overall impact will be mitigated by ongoing reclamation.
From a regional perspective, the construction and operation of the
facility will only remove a small percentage of the total amount of the
affected communities found in Hardee County. This loss would become
more significant, however, if the cumulative losses of these communities
due to possible future mining and development in the county are considered.
The loss of the natural vegetative communities (e.g., upland
forest, wetlands, pine flatwoods/palmetto range) will have a greater
impact on terrestrial ecology than will the loss of the agriculturally
managed lands (e.g., pasture, cropland, citrus groves). The only long-
term loss of communities (assuming that the reclamation plan is suc-
cessfully completed) will be the loss of about 30 percent of the site's
pine flatwoods/palmetto range and wetlands communities (583 acres of
pine flatwoods/palmetto range and 207 acres of wetlands). Reclamation
plans provide for the reestablishment of 339 acres of freshwater marsh
and 59 acres of freshwater swamp. Because of the low relief topography,
attendant drainage patterns of wetlands and associated hydric soils of
wetlands are difficult to restore; therefore, the floristic composition
of the restored wetlands is likely to be less diverse and different from
the natural wetlands and, consequently, less valuable.
*Within Hardee County, upland forests and forested wetlands together
total about 78,600 acres.
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The pine flatwoods/palmetto range community has been subject to a
great deal of disturbance as the result of the harvesting of merchant-
able timber and grazing by livestock. Consequently, the loss of 583
acres of this community is not significant—especially, when compared to
the 145,195 acres of palmetto in Hardee County.
Disruption of Wetlands
Although the loss of 605 acres of wetlands appears small when
compared to the 78,200 acres of wetlands in Hardee County, the signif-
icance of this loss should be judged on the basis of their overall
functional importance. From this perspective, the site wetlands were
classified following guidelines established by the EPA (1978; 1979).
Wetland areas on the property (see Figure 3-12) were classified as
either Category 1, 2, or 3 as follows:
Category 1 Wetlands are those wetlands on the site which occur
within the 25-year floodplain of the Peace River or its
tributaries upstream to the point of 5 cfs mean annual flow,
or wetlands considered to be significant wildlife habitat.
Category 2 Wetlands are those wetlands which occur in the 25-
year floodplain upstream of the point of 5 cfs and isolated
wetlands in excess of 5 acres in size.
Category 3 Wetlands are isolated wetlands 5 acres or less.
Farmland's proposed mine plan will result in the loss and protec-
tion of the following acreages of each of the above wetland categories:
Acres Acres Percent
Lost Protected Protected
Category 1
Category 2
Category 3
0
514
91
710
264
18
100
34
16
TOTALS 605 992 62
Wetlands not directly disturbed by construction or mining activ-
ities may be indirectly affected by these activities. Effects could
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LEGEND
symbol
Category 1 Cateoory 2 Category 2 Category 3 Preserved
Wetlands Wetlands Wetlands Wetlands Area
Disturbed Undisturbed
FIGURE 3-12. WETLAND CATEGORIZA-ION; FARMLAND
INDUSTRIES, INC. MINE SITE.
SOURCE: WOODWARD-CLYDE CONSULTANTS (1980)
3-H5
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Include temporary lowering of water levels, increased sedimentation,
changes in groundwater and surface water flow, and long-term hydroperiod
alterations.
The water table level in the vicinity of the open mine pits will be
temporarily lowered for a period of 1 to 2 years while the ore is mined.
Wetlands adjacent to these areas are expected to be affected by the
temporary lowering of the water table. The magnitude of this impact
will depend upon the rainfall level experienced at that time. Experi-
ments conducted by the Central and Southern Flood Control District
(Milleson 1976; Goodrick and Milleson 1974; Davis 1978) have shown that
drawdowns of 2 to 4 months can result in substantial changes in plant
biomass, species composition, and in the proportion of perennial plants
in the marsh during the following season. The long-term effects,
however, are likely to be minor and reversible as the vegetation con-
tinually adjusts to the prevailing hydroperiod.
Swamps along the lower portion of Hickory Creek may be affected by
the temporary diversion of Upper Hickory Creek to Troublesome Creek for
mining and the eventual impoundment of water to form a land and lakes
system. The diversion will last for 4 years while the Upper Hickory
Creek floodplain is mined and reclaimed with a lake system. This will
deprive the hardwood overstory on the lower Hickory Creek floodplain of
its usual water supply. In addition, the temporary dewatering of the
Surficial Aquifer will further deprive the trees of their water supply.
During this period the water supply for the trees will depend upon
runoff collected in the creek channel.
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Impacts on Faunal Populations
To understand the basis of anticipated impact on faunal populations
of construction and operation of the mine, it is useful to distinguish
between density independent effects and density dependent effects on the
environment.
Factors that alter birth and death rates of a species population
regardless of population density are called density independent. The
operation of the mine, which will ultimately disturb nearly 5300 acres,
will cause the death of smaller fauna (as well as the floral species)
within the areas to be disturbed. Because these species populations are
reduced regardless of their densities, this action is an example of a
density independent effect.
A density dependent effect alters the birth rate or death rate as a
function of the density of the population. Competition among members of
the same population, or competition between one species population and
members of other species are examples of density dependent effects.
Density dependent factors change in effectiveness as the population size
grows. For those species likely to disperse from the site into sur-
rounding undisturbed areas when clearing and grubbing commences (pri-
marily larger fauna such as deer, feral hog, and bobcat), density
dependent effects to both the displaced populations and those now
occupying similar adjacent habitats (i.e., within the area immediately
around the site) can be expected. The particular density dependent
factor or combination of factors involved will vary, depending on which
species population is affected. In one species, it may be mortality
from predators; in another, shortage of food in certain seasons of the
year. In some cases, movement of individuals to offsite areas may be
largely successful if population levels in the offsite area are below
carrying capacity. In general terms, carrying capacity is the limit to
population growth of a particular species, imposed by environmental
resistance under a given set of conditions (Boughey 1968).
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Onsite, the impact of mine operation on local populations of
certain species will be significant. Overall, the elimination of less
mobile species (density independent effects) and the losses to species
populations that move out of the site areas initially (density dependent
effects) will represent an incremental loss. However, this loss alone
will not be significant to terrestrial faunal populations in the region
(i.e., areas within several miles of the site).
Fauna inhabiting the areas to be mined will be displaced or elim-
inated when these areas are cleared and grubbed. Mobile faunal species
(e.g., most bird species, larger mammal species) are likely to move to
undisturbed areas when clearing activities begin. More sedentary
species (e.g., many reptile and amphibian species, smaller mammal
species) will probably be eliminated because of an inability to suc-
cessfully move from the disturbed areas. Fauna are expected to repopu-
late disturbed areas following reclamation. The species repopulating
the reclaimed areas will depend largely on the type of habitat created.
Faunal species with the most restricted habitat requirements are
those species that primarily inhabit wetlands (e.g., alligators, wading
birds, marsh rabbit). Many of the species inhabiting the site's upland
areas normally occur in all of the principal habitats on the site (e.g.,
white-tailed deer, feral hog, bobcat, raccoon, crow). In general, the
loss of habitats resulting from the operation of the mine is expected to
cause a decline in the onsite populations of most resident species. The
regional effect of this loss is not expected to be significant because
all of the affected habitats are common in the site region and only a
small amount of the total available habitat will be lost (e.g., 10.3
percent of forestland and 0.8 percent of wetlands within Hardee County).
Of the 5280 acres that will be disrupted, 4395 acres (83 percent)
are ruderal habitat. The loss of this ruderal habitat will not affect
most species populations as severely as the loss of less disturbed
habitats. The ruderal habitat results from the frequent disturbance and
manipulation of vegetation (e.g., range management, pasture, citrus
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groves, cropland) primarily for agricultural purposes. As a consequence
of this management, these areas generally do not support as diverse a
fauna as is found in less disturbed habitats. Although the ruderal
communities are an important habitat component for some of the site's
faunal species such as the sandhill crane, cattle egret, and numerous
invertebrates (e.g., herbivorous insects), the majority of the site's
species basic habitat requirements are provided by the less disturbed
natural plant communities.
Loss of the less disturbed upland forest (280 acres) and wetland
(605 acres) habitats will affect a variety of fauna. The bayheads,
hardwood swamps, and upland woodlands provide essential cover for many
of the faunal species inhabiting the site. Approximately 38 percent of
the site's wetlands and 35 percent of its upland forest will eventually
be removed. Loss of these habitats should result in greater competition
in similar adjacent undisturbed habitats and a resultant loss of indi-
viduals because of reduced nesting success, food availability, and/or
cover.
Effects on Endangered or Threatened Species
Endangered or threatened species listed by the U.S. F&WS (1980) for
the Farmland site area are as follows:
Species Classification
Bald eagle Endangered
Red-cockaded woodpecker Endangered
American alligator Threatened
Eastern indigo snake Threatened
Arctic peregrine falcon Endangered
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Additional species listed as endangered or threatened or as species
of special concern by the Florida Game and Freshwater Fish Commission
(1979) are as follows:
Species Classification
Wood stork Endangered
Florida sandhill crane Threatened
Gopher tortoise Special Concern
Florida burrowing owl Special Concern
Little blue heron Special Concern
Snowy egret Special Concern
Louisiana heron Special Concern
The effects of the proposed plan on the above species are discussed in '
the following paragraphs.
There are no known active bald eagle nests in Hardee County and the
species occurs on the site only as a transient. Its occurrence on the
site has been infrequent, and its occurrences are expected to continue
to be infrequent in the future. Consequently, operation of the proposed
mine is not expected to have any noticeable effect on the bald eagle.
The red-cockaded woodpecker has not been observed on the site and,
consequently should not be adversely affected by the project.
The American alligator is common on the site. The proposed project
will affect about 27 percent (320 acres) of the freshwater swamp habitat
on the site and result in the dislocation of some alligators and possi-
bly a decline in the overall alligator population on the site. The
alligator is an adaptable species, and disturbed individuals are ex-
pected to readily move into adjacent undisturbed swamp habitat. The
reclamation plan provides for the creation of 235 acres of lakes. This
lake system should compensate for the loss of alligator habitat provided
by the freshwater swamps, and no long-term adverse effect on the alli-
gator population in the site area is anticipated.
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The eastern indigo snake appears to be a commonly occurring species
on the site. The mining of the pine flatwoods/palmetto range and upland
forest communities will eliminate some oak hammock and dry flatwood
habitats and will thus reduce the onsite habitat available to the indigo
snake. About 62 percent (583 acres) of the pine flatwoods/palmetto
range and 35 percent (280 acres) of the upland forest communities on the
site will be removed over the life of the mine. The habitats created as
the result of restoration and reclamation programs are generally not
suitable for the indigo snake (Layne, et al. 1977). Consequently, the
long-term effect of the proposed project on the indigo snake will be a
reduction in available upland habitat which may further reduce the
species' population in the site region.
In the site area, the peregrine falcon can be expected to occur
primarily as a migrant and, consequently should not be affected by the
proposed project.
The mining operations will cause the eventual disturbance of about
73 percent (285 acres) of the freshwater marsh on the site, the habitat
of the wood stork. However, since no nesting colonies are located in
the immediate site vicinity, the loss of habitat should have little
effect on the wood stork population.
The Florida sandhill crane is basically sedentary and is highly
territorial during the breeding season, consequently, destruction of
shallow marshes and ponds associated with the mining operations may be
detrimental to the resident crane population.
Most of the habitat of the gopher tortoise on the site has been
converted to citrus groves. Consequently, the mining operations are not
expected to have a significant effect on the gopher tortoise population
of the region.
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The mining operation should have little effect on the burrowing owl
population in the area because of the large amount of potential habitat
which exists for this species in the site area in the form of improved
pasture.
The loss of freshwater marshes as a result of the mining of the
site will reduce the habitat of the little blue heron, snowy egret, and
Louisiana heron. However, because no nesting colonies are located in
the areas affected, there should be no significant effect on the popu-
lations of these wading birds in the region.
Dredge Mining. The impacts associated with the destruction of terres-
trial habitat described above for dragline mining would also be expected
with dredge mining. The use of dredge mining would, however, reduce the
indirect effects on wetland habitats that will occur as a result of
dewatering of the Surficial Aquifer into open mine pits. Because dredge
mining would require that water levels be maintained in the active
mining area, the surrounding Surficial Aquifer and water levels in
nearby wetlands would be maintained.
Bucketwheel Mining. Bucketwheel mining would result in impacts on
terrestrial ecology similar to those described for dragline mining.
3.7.2.2.2 Waste Sand and Clay Disposal
Sand-Clay Mixing (Farmland's Proposed Action). The proposed action
calls for the majority of the sand and clay wastes to be disposed of
through the sand-clay mix technique. The sand-clay mix is expected to
achieve a higher percent solids at a more rapid rate than clays alone
(25 percent solids rather than 17 percent solids clay basis) and provide
more rapid recycling of a greater amount of water. This will provide
for a more rapid achievement of a stable fill. Use of sand-clay mixing
will minimize the extent of the land surface to be covered with slow
drying, unstable phosphatic clays. Thus, the area to be available for
Farmland's varied reclamation plan will be maximized. The use of sand-clay
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mixing should also result in a land surface that closely approximates
the original surface in both contour and elevation. However, it should
be noted that large-scale sand-clay mixing has yet to be proven as a
workable waste disposal technique in the phosphate industry. The
success with which the proposed plan will work depends largely on what
other operators achieve in the next 1 to 2 years.
Although Farmland proposes to dispose of most of the waste sand and
clay through the sand-clay mix technique, separate sand and clay dis-
posal areas will also be required. Waste clays will be impounded in
diked areas covering 1078 acres during most of the life of the mine.
These large areas will contain clays at various densities, ranging from
about 17 percent solids to less than 3 percent solids. Should a dike
failure occur in an impoundment dike, this material could flow overland
and into natural stream courses producing tremendous impacts on terres-
trial biota. A worst-case analysis of the result of a dike failure in
one of Farmland's proposed impoundments (Area I, the largest undivided
settling area proposed) indicates that as much as 11,500 acre-feet of
material could be released, most of which would find its way into Oak or
Hickory Creeks (Farmland 1979a). Because the sand-clay mix should
dewater and consolidate more rapidly than separately impounded clays,
most of the wastes confined in the sand-clay mix disposal areas should
not be in a fluid state. The area affected by a break in a sand-clay
retention dike should, therefore, be relatively small.
Conventional Sand and Clay Disposal. This alternative involves disposal
of clay slimes as conventionally practiced in the Florida phosphate
industry. Clay slimes would be contained within diked areas both on
virgin land and over mined-out areas. After the clay slimes had settled
and compacted over a period of several years, these areas would gen-
erally be left to revegetate naturally or reclaimed as pasture. While
conventional clay disposal would result in the creation of large areas
of limited agricultural value, it has been shown that these areas could
be beneficial to wildlife, particularly wetland species (The Wildlife
Society 1978). However, the additional diking required to contain the
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separately impounded clay wastes would increase the probability of a
dike failure over that which exists for sand-clay mix disposal.
3.7.2.2.3 Process Water Sources
Groundwater Withdrawal (Farmland's Proposed Action). The major source
of water for the proposed mine will be from onsite deep wells. The
production wells will be drilled to an approximate depth of 1400 ft and
cased to about 250 ft. Since the drawdown resulting from this pumping
must meet the requirements of the SWFWMD, the operation of these wells
should have little impact on the surrounding terrestrial environments.
Surface Water Impjmndment. Farmland's proposed rainfall collection
facilities include only those structures which are a part of the mining,
waste disposal, and water clarification and recirculation plans (amounting
to a nominal average of 10.6 cfs of normal rainfall). In order to
improve the collection of such water for use in the facility processes,
additional catchment areas or reservoirs could be provided in the main
drainage areas of the mine property. The average flows of Hickory and
Oak Creek would be maintained at 6.2 and 15.8 cfs, respectively; there-
fore the potential reservoir gain would come largely from above normal
flows.
The impact associated with the construction of such a reservoir
system would be significant because of the loss of the Oak Creek Islands
area, which would be preserved under the proposed action. This area
lies in the largest natural drainage through the site and thus would be
the logical location for the surface water impoundment.
3.7.2.2.4 Reclamation
Farmland's Proposed Reclamation Plan. Farmland's proposed reclamation
plan calls for reclamation of the mine site to be undertaken as mining
proceeds, so that reclamation of the areas mined initially will be
completed during the 9th year of operation, and all reclamation will be
completed 30 years after mining begins. The net effect of this plan on
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the extent of the general vegetation associations which currently exist
on the site will be as follows:
A Acreage
Vegetation Current Disturbed Preserved Reclaimed Post-Reel. Current:
Association Acreage Acreage Acreage Acreage Acreage Post-Reel.
Forested
Uplands 790
Freshwater
Swamp 1205
Freshwater
Marsh 392
Pine Flatwoods/
Palmetto Range 937
Citrus 1917
Improved
Pasture/
Cropland 2569
Lakes 0
280
320
285
583
1757
2055
0
510
885
107
354
160
514
0
550
59
339
0
*
4097
235
1060
944
446
354
160
4611
235
+270(4-34%)
-221(-22%)
+54(4-14%)
-583 (-62%)
-1757 (-92%)
+2042 (+79%)
+235
7810 5280
2530
5280
7810
*0nly a small citrus planting is planned on reclaimed land.
As indicated above, the proposed reclamation plan will greatly
increase the acreage on the mine site devoted to pasture and crops. The
acreage occupied by forested uplands, freshwater marsh, and lakes will
also increase. Most of the reclaimed forested upland acreage (344 of
550 acres) will be in the form of strip plantings between pasture and
cropland areas (see Figures 2-12, 2-34, 2-35, and 2-36; pages 2-17,
2-75, 2-77, and 2-79, respectively). Only native species will be used
in the plantings. Trees will be obtained from onsite areas to be mined
and from the Florida Forest Service. A planting density of 200 trees/
acre is planned. A total of 143 acres of upland forest and 52 acres of
freshwater swamp (forest) plantings will also be made along the flood-
plains for the rerouting of Oak Creek and one of its tributaries.
Additional plantings of upland forest and freshwater swamp (63 and 7
acres, respectively) will be made on land areas associated with land-
and-lakes reclamation.
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Farmland's reclamation plan also calls for the creation of 339
acres of freshwater marsh. Most of this (181 acres) will occur as a
result of the uneven distribution of sand and clay which is likely to
occur in sand-clay mix landfills. This should result in the formation
of scattered shallow depressions (Figure 3-13) which would tend to pond
water (especially in areas downslope of the waste inlet location). Much
of the remaining freshwater marsh would be created as part of the
reclamation of the Oak Creek floodplain to the west of Oak Creek Is-
lands. Mine cuts will be arranged such that when the sand-clay mix
planted in them has subsided and the creek's flow is returned, the flow
will traverse the area much the way that it would along a natural
meandering floodplain. Water tolerant trees will be planted along the
stream channel, and marsh is expected to develop in the channel itself.
The remaining wetland acreage to be created would occur as littoral
zones around the lake systems which will result from reclamation. Such
areas will be designed to average about 3 ft in depth, and will not
exceed 6 ft. In all, 398 acres of wetlands will be created by the
proposed reclamation plan, most of which will be in the mined Oak Creek
floodplain upstream of Oak Creek Islands. This represents 66 percent of
the total wetland acreage disturbed by mining activities, and 77 percent
of the Category 1 and 2 Wetlands which would be destroyed.
While the proposed reclamation plan should return the mine site to
productive use, the habitats present will not be as suitable for some
species of wildlife as the undisturbed site is. This is the case for
one important species, the indigo snake (Layne, et al. 1977). Conse-
quently, the long-term effect of the proposed project on the indigo
snake will be a reduction in available habitat which may further reduce
the species' population in the site region. On the other hand, the
impacts on the American alligator should be more than mitigated by the
creation of the proposed lake system, while the marsh systems created
would provide habitat for species such as the wood stork and Florida
sandhill crane.
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PLAN VIEW
RESTORED MARSH
SAND-CLAY LEVEL
CRQSfrSECTION
FIGURE 3-13. CONCEPTUAL VIEW OF MARSH RESTORATION
IN A SAND-CLAY MIX DISPOSAL AREA.
SOURCE: FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC., HARDEE COUNTY MASTER PLAN, JUNE 1979
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Conventional Reclamation. Under conventional reclamation a large
portion (2500 acres) of the Farmland site would be covered to an ele-
vation of 35 ft above existing grade with impounded clays. Once these
had settled and a crust had formed on the surface, this area would
likely be planted with forage species for use as pasture. The mined
portions of the site not covered with clays would be reclaimed as land
and lake areas. Overall, the diversity of habitat for terrestrial
wildlife species would likely be significantly less than will develop
under Farmland's proposed reclamation plan. Most of the site would
likely be reclaimed as pasture and lakes, neither of which provide the
total habitat requirements for most species.
Natural Mine Cut Reclamation. Natural mine cut reclamation would
greatly alter the potential use of the mined site. Because of the
uneven terrain which would be left, the majority of the site would not
be suited for agricultural use. The site would, however, be more suited
for use by wildlife (once vegetation had reestablished itself) than will
be the case under Farmland's proposed reclamation plan.
3.8 SOCIOECONOMICS
3.8.1 THE AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT
3.8.1.1 Population, Income, and Employment
Hardee County is predominantly rural, with two-thirds of the
population living in unincorporated areas. The estimated population was
17,800 in 1978. Population growth in Hardee County has been low rela-
tive to the region or the state, reflecting a minimal amount of immi-
gration to the county.
Prior to the development of phosphate mining in 1978, the economic
base of Hardee County consisted of agriculture and a few manufacturing
establishments. The agricultural sector is the largest source of earned
income in the country, but the services, trade, and government sectors
are also major income providers. Recent phosphate mining has provided a
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significant new source of income in the mining sector; however, much of
this income does not add to economic activity in Hardee County.
The county's labor force was an estimated 8842 persons in August
1979. Unemployment averaged 6.8 percent during 1978 and ranged from 4.5
percent in April to 10.6 percent in August during 1979. This variation
is due to seasonal employment in agriculture, especially citrus.
Wage rates in Hardee County are low relative to the more urban
counties in the region. Wages in phosphate mining and construction are
substantially higher than in other job categories.
Employment and population growth in the county will depend almost
entirely on the expansion of the phosphate industry. Phosphate employ-
ment in Hardee County is likely to increase at a higher rate and main-
tain a positive growth rate beyond 1985 since the county's phosphate
reserves are just beginning to be tapped.
3.8.1.2 Land Use
Land use in Hardee County is predominantly agricultural. Citrus,
cattle, and cropland comprise approximatley half of the entire land area
in the county. Because of the predominance of agricultural uses, devel-
opment is rather limited, and less than 1 percent of the county is
urbanized. The three incorporated areas are Bowling Green, Wauchula,
the county seat, and Zolfo Springs; commercial and industrial land uses
are restricted to the three urban areas but primarily to Wauchula.
Generally, other areas of Hardee County are occupied primarily by
rangelands or wetlands. Phosphate companies currently own or have
options on slightly less than one-half of the land in Hardee County.
The proposed Farmland site in Hardee County occupies 14,373 acres.
All of the onsite land is currently leased to private agricultural
interests. The highest valued use of land in the site area at present
is the 2145 acres of citrut production. The remaining 12,288 acres are
used primarily as grazing land for cattle, the quality of which varies
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considerably. Many of the wetland areas onsite, particularly marshes,
show evidence of past attempts to drain them. Wetlands associated with
the major drainage courses on the site have best retained their natural
character despite such alterations and use.
Land use in the surrounding area is similar to that in the site
area. The unincorporated Village of Ona is located approximately 1 mile
northwest of the mine property, and has an estimated 88 residential
structures and several commercial establishments. One small industrial
facility, a post plant, is located adjacent to Ona to the southwest.
Two agencies provide regional planning services to Hardee County.
The Central Florida Regional Planning Council (CFRPC), headquartered in
Bartow, provides technical assistance and advice to local planning
agencies in the county and reviews applications for DRIs. The Southwest
Florida Water Management District (SWFWMD) has jurisdiction over water-
related planning and consumption in the region, including regulatory
control over consumptive water use permits. In addition, SWFWMD assists
CFRPC in reviewing water-related aspects of complex DRIs.
The Hardee County Planning and Zoning Board is the designated local
planning agency for Hardee County. This Board administers the county's
zoning ordinance. In addition, the Board has retained a consultant to
help it prepare the comprehensive plan elements required by The Local
Government Planning Act of 1975. In general, the county's policy toward
land use planning and control has been the typical one of minimal inter-
ference with the independent land use decisions of private individuals.
However, the county has adopted a mining ordinance which requires the
company to submit a Master Mining and Reclamation Plan and to provide
evidence that the company has met all other requirements stipulated by
other agencies having some jurisdiction over mining.
3.8.1.3 Transportation
The existing transportation network in Hardee County consists of
U.S. 17, the major north-south corridor, and State Roads (SRs) 62 and 64
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which provide east-west access. The proposed site is directly served by
SRs 64, 661, and 663 and the Fort Green-Ona Road, a graded unpaved road
maintained by the county. In addition, the Seaboard Coastline Railroad
has two tracks through the county, one paralleling the Fort Green-Ona
Road and the other paralleling U.S. 17.
More recent Average Daily Traffic (ADT) counts by the Hardee County
Engineer's office show an ADT of 447 for the north end of the Fort
Green-Ona Road (March 1979), an ADT of 384 for SR 663 north of SR 62,
and an ADT between 683 and 803 for SR 661.
The only major traffic generator in the general area at present is
the recently opened CF Industries, Inc. phosphate mine which is located
about 10 miles north of Farmland's proposed site. Other primary traffic
generators in the area are the dispersed ranching, vegetable, and citrus
operations and seasonal tourists. Peak traffic occurs during the
winter period.
The recently completed traffic circulation element of the compre-
hensive plan identified three major transportation issues facing Hardee
County: status and need for improvements to U.S. 17; the need or desir-
ability of paving Fort Green-Ona Road between SRs 64 and 62; limited
access to U.S. 17 available to residents east of Wauchula; and the
resultant increased traffic on 64A within the city.
3.8.1.4 Community Services and Facilities
Hardee County had an estimated 6064 year-round housing units in
1976, of which 3.4 percent were vacant. The predominate type and
tensure of housing in Hardee County is single-family owner-occupied, with
the number of mobile homes having increased in recent years and multi-
family units still a negligible portion of the county's housing stock.
The major concentrations of housing in the county are in and around the
incorporated towns and the outlying communities of Fort Green Springs,
Limestone, and Ona. The structural condition of much of the older
housing in the county is poor.
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Hardee County is served by one school district. Elementary stu-
dents in grades 1-5 attend an elementary school in the incorporated town
nearest their home, but all sixth graders and junior and senior high
school students in the county are transported to Wauchula for school.
The District Superintendent of Schools expects a total enrollment in
excess of 4500 before the end of the 1979-80 school year. Although
current enrollment is near the capacity of existing facilities, the
district has started construction on a new high school which should give
the district the capacity to handle in excess of 5600 students.
Fire protection in the county is currently provided by three munic-
ipal volunteer fire departments. Service to the rural areas in the
county is poor, but studies are underway to investigate ways of im-
proving fire protection. The Wauchula Fire Department equipment is
adequate and in good condition. However, both Bowling Green and Zolfo
Springs need new or upgraded pumper trucks.
3.8.1.5 Public Finance
Intergovernmental transfers and property taxes are the major
revenue sources for the county government. Service charges and inter-
governmental transfers are the major revenue sources for the munici-
palities. Currently, school district operating revenues are evenly
split between local property taxes and state sources; however, state
sources provide approximately three-fourths of the school district's
revenues for capital expenditures and debt service. Although the
property tax base has increased significantly in the past few years,
property tax revenues have not increased very much because the county
has opted to reduce tax rates.
The county's major expenditure categories include general govern-
ment, public safety, and economic development. The municipalities'
major expenditures are for public works. The district's FY 1980 budget
includes $5.9 million for general instruction and support. In addition,
the district will spend nearly $6 million for construction of a new high
school.
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3.8.1,6 Cultural Resources
Historically, the flatland areas of the proposed project area
presented very few easily obtainable resources, floral or faunal.
Because of its wet nature during the growing season, the land was not
well-suited to the types of maize horticulture practiced by Florida
Indians. Thus, the flatlands on the Farmland property were probably not
a hospitable environment to the south Florida Indians and were utilized
only very sporadically. In fact, it is only since power machinery for
digging drainage ditches and year-round watering holes became available
that the land could be improved sufficiently for use as pasture.
The majority of the Indian sites found in the area were small
camps, usually adjacent to a water source. Also reported for northern
Hardee County are several earthen mounds of artificial construction and
unknown use, some of which contain artifactual material (Wood 1976) . As
one moves westward out of the flatlands toward the coastal strand, the
number of sites increases, especially when the ecotone between the
coastal and flatland habitat is reached. These occupations extend up
the rivers into the flatlands for a way, but decrease significantly away
from the rivers. In the same manner, as one moves eastward toward the
central Florida highlands, the number of sites increases and extends for
a short way into the flatlands along rivers flowing down from the higher
central portion of the state.
Hardee County is located between two discrete and well-defined
culture regions. The first, the coastal portion of Manatee and Sarasota
Counties to the west, was the southern extent of the various cultures
which inhabited the peninsular Florida Central Gulf Coast from about
2000 B.C. to the historic period (Archaic, Norwood, Deptford, Weeden
Island, Safety Harbor). To the southeast is the Bell Glade culture
region, centered in the Lake Okeechobee Basin but extending an unknown
distance northward up the Kissimee River drainage and west along the
Caloosahatchee (Sears 1974). The latter region was occupied intensively
from about 500 B.C. into the historic period. Hardee County, as well as
the coastal strand and Lake Okeechobee Basin, contains Archaic sites
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dating back at least to 5000 B.C. Paleo-Indian materials dated to 8000
B.C. have also been found in all three regions (e.g., Clausen, Brooks
and Wesolowsky 1975). The Archaic sites and the few Paleo-Indian sites
are generally small camps found around old sinks (some now silted-in).
Quite likely, nomadic hunters utilized the sinks to mine flint and
obtain water in what was then arid south Florida (Thanz 1975).
Thus, because of the relative sparseness of its habitats after
about 2000 B.C., Hardee County served as a "no-man's land" or buffer
zone between the Gulf coastal cultures and the cultures of the Lake
Okeechobee Basin. Previous to that time, all three regions were occu-
pied only sporadically by small populations of nomadic Paleo-Indian and
Archaic hunters. At no time during the prehistoric period was the
region ever an important culture area.
In March and April of 1977 an intensive inventory archaeological
survey of the Farmland mine site was carried out by personnel employed
by the Florida State Museum (Milanich and Willis 1977). The survey
revealed twelve previously unknown scatters of aboriginal artifacts on
the property, three of which warranted listing in the Florida Master
Site File. Although these three warranted listing, no mitigation was
recommended because they had already been extremely disturbed by past
agricultural practices. Milanich and Willis (1977) also state that a
paleontological site has been reported from the property. It was
reported that a partial, badly-deteriorated mammoth skeleton was removed
from Hickory Creek by a Wauchula resident in 1965. No paleontological
remains were found on the site by Milanich and Willis.
3.8.1.7 Visual Resources
3.8.1.7.1 Physical Environment Description
The existing landform of the proposed Farmland mine site is nearly
flat to slightly rolling. Three creeks with some steeply incised banks
cut through the property, creating some variation in relief. Dense
vegetation, however, tends to obscure the variation in topography.
Irregular-shaped bands of tall rounded trees with dense understory grow
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along the creeks, which are separated by grassy pastures and citrus
groves. The pastures are rectangular with hedgerows along some fence
lines and occasional clumps of coniferous or hardwood forest within.
The citrus groves are uniform and rectangular. Patches of palmetto,
swamp or marsh vegetation occur sporadically throughout the site. The
natural areas, pastures, and groves create a mixed pattern of open and
enclosed spaces. The dominant colors are various shades of green and
gray and some tan from dried vegetation.
The site is located in a rural area, and nearly all structures on
the site or nearby are either farm housing or associated with agri-
culture. The site boundary is within 3000 ft of the small community of
Ona which has approximately 88 dwelling structures. Most are small, one
to two story buildings and are made primarily of wood. Also, there is a
small wood mill in Ona with a large two story shed.
3.8.1.7.2 Human Perception Analysis
The most frequent public views of the proposed Farmland mine site
would be from cars on SRs 661, 663, 64, and East Whidden Road (Figure
3-14). Views into the site from along these roads are sometimes ob-
structed by dense vegetation, orchards, or parcels not owned by Farm-
land. Open areas (unobstructed views) range in distance between 0.5 and
1.5 miles. The flat terrain and vegetation prevents long, sweeping
vistas.
As indicated in Figure 3-14, the number of viewers to pass the mine
site by car varies between 201 on SR 663, and 2307 on SR 64 (based on
ADTs and one person per car). This compares to 10,391 persons calcu-
lated for U.S. Route 17 (the nearest U.S. Highway), which is 7 miles
away. The heaviest traffic is along SR 64 followed by SR 661. This
number may increase should plans for improvement of these roads be
implemented. The typical viewer would see the site only briefly in
passing; there are no major places to stop and view the site for longer
periods of time. Of course, local residents, including those in Ona,
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POLK COUNTY
TO •*
BRAOENTON
FORT Ml Mil
BOWLING GREEN
, <$
479
542
1807
1788
X
RD
TO
I U S 98
HARDEE COUNTY
/ _
y \ / 0000 1176 ADT
K861) / 0000 1978 ADT
TO ARCADIA
I
TO ARCADIA
DESOTO COUNTY
FIGURE 3-14. 1976 AND 1978 ANNUAL AVERAGE DAILY TWO-WAY TRAFFIC (ADT) LEVELS
ON ROADS IN THE FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC. SITE AREA.
SOURCE: FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC., DRI. JUNE 1979
1 2 3
•^•^B •
MILES
-------
would be able to continuously view the site. The site is not visible to
canoers on the Peace River because of dense vegetation.
A survey of regionally pre-empted areas suggests a preference in
central Florida for water-based recreation and natural areas (EPA 1978).
The nearest recreation areas to the mine site are Pioneer Park (5 miles)
and the Peace River canoe trail (on the eastern property boundary).
Pioneer Park, which borders the Peace River near Wauchula, has both day
and overnight use. The Peace River canoe trail has no public land
acquisition associated with the program, and no usage data are available
(EPA 1978). The river is a potential nominee for scenic river status,
and the site property adjacent to the Peace River has physical qualities
similar to other pre-empted areas in central Florida. However, no such
state or local recreation purchases are anticipated in Hardee County.
3.8.2 ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES OF THE ALTERNATIVES
3.8.2.1 The No Action Alternative
The no action alternative would have socioeconomic impacts on
Hardee County and the central Florida region. The generation of con-
struction and operation jobs and comparatively high phosphate industry
income, important to the economy of a rural county like Hardee, would
not occur. Similarly, there would be no population influx associated
with relocating direct and indirect employment.
Project site land use is likely to remain in citrus production,
pasture, and other agricultural uses. All wetlands and environmentally
sensitive lands would also remain in their present uses. If the site is
not developed for its phosphate reserves, it is probable that the
property value would drop (relative to the value for phosphate).
The no action alternative would result in lower traffic levels on
local roads and the Seaboard Coastline Railroad than would occur with
the project. Subsequently, the demand for transportation facility
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capital improvements, such as paving the Fort Green-Ona Road, railroad
crossings and turning lanes, would be less urgent or unnecessary.
The no action alternative would eliminate an additional demand on
an already inadequate housing situation and the increased demands for
fire protection, police and medical services which the project will
bring. Because current school district expansion is adequate for
project created demand, the no action alternative would have no impact
on local schools.
3.8.2.2 The Action Alternatives, Including The Proposed Action
The impacts of the action alternatives on socioeconomics have not
been evaluated in the same format that has been presented for other
disciplines. The socioeconomics evaluation is thus limited to the no
action alternative vs. the proposed action. The impacts of Farmland's
proposed action are presented in detail below:
3.8.2.2.1 Population, Income, and Employment
Direct employment on the proposed Farmland phosphate mine will peak
at 450 employees during construction, with the average being 285 em-
ployees. Permanent operating employment is expected to stabilize at 327
employees. Less than 10 percent of the construction employees and
approximately 25 percent of the operating employees are likely to be
current Hardee County residents. Approximately 25 percent of the
operating work force, or about 80 employees, is expected to relocate to
Hardee County.
Total regional secondary employment generated by operation of the
facility is projected to be between 1000 and 2000. However, only
approximately 25 percent of this employment will be new employment
located in Hardee County. The remainder will be dispersed throughout
the region.
New households relocating to Hardee County as a result of employ-
ment generated by operation of the facility will add approximately 980
3-138
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to 1580 persons to the county's population. This increase constitutes 4
to 7 percent of the projected population of the county in 1984.
Construction labor expenditures for the proposed Farmland project
will total $14 million, and the annual operations payroll starting in
1984 will be $6.3 million (in 1980 dollars). Total operations expendi-
tures over the 20-year operation life will total approximately $126
million (1980 dollars). Most (85 percent) of the construction labor
expenditures and essentially all of the operations expenditures will
accrue to the seven county region. Approximately 10 percent of con-
struction payroll and 50 percent of the operations payroll will accrue
to Hardee County residents.
Secondary income from indirect and induced employment would total
$41 million for construction and $21 million annually for operations.
Approximately 25 percent of indirect and induced income will accrue to
Hardee County residents.
The average wage levels of Farmland employees will be significantly
higher than general construction, agricultural, and service employees.
The effect of the combined direct, indirect, and induced income in-
creases will be an increase in the county per capita income. However,
the differential in wages created by the project will inflate local
wages and could increase the cost of doing business in the construction,
agriculture, and service sectors. Some loss of personnel from these, as
well as other sectors, to the mining industry might occur; as a result
the disparity between lower and higher incomes will widen.
3.8.2.2.2 Land Use and Value
The Farmland project will have an impact on project site and county
land use. Agricultural acreage will increase 7.2 percent onsite,
largely because of a 79.2 percent increase in improved pasture acreage.
Citrus acreage will, in fact, decrease by 91.7 percent. This loss
represents roughly 4 percent of the Hardee County citrus acreage.
3-139
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Forestland and wetland acreage on the project site will also decrease to
50.0 and 87.0 percent of the existing acreage, respectively.
The project has already more than doubled land values that could be
expected from present onsite uses ($11.0 million to $31.2 million).
After the completion of mining, post-mining land values will be about 70
percent less than pre-mining phosphate value and 14 percent of its non-
phosphate value. The greatest non-phosphate value loss will be where
citrus acreage is to be mined.
3.8.2.2.3 Transportation
The Farmland project will generate an average 813 one-way trips on
local roads during construction and 858 one-way trips during project
operation. Traffic volumes during construction will increase by 4.5
percent on SR 64 west of the site, 29.3 percent on SR 64 east of the
site and 9.5 percent on SR 663 south of the site; Operational levels on
these routes will be 4.6 percent, 17.8 percent, and 7.6 percent,
respectively.
Approximately 2 million tons of wet phosphate rock will be trans-
ported by rail from the project site each year of operation. This will
require an estimated 70 rail car trips per day, increasing rail traffic
on the Seaboard Coastline Railroad track paralleling the Fort Green-Ona
Road. Train crossings of SRs 62 and 64 should cause no more than
several minutes delay at each crossing each day.
The increased traffic and transportation facilities associated with
the project will require over $2 million in capital improvements and
cause an estimated $100,000 increase in annual Hardee County road
maintenance costs.
3.8.2.2.4 Community Facilities
The Farmland project will create a housing demand for 330 to 580
housing units for relocating direct and indirect employment. At 1980
housing costs and salary levels, 43 to 76 new single-family units, 113
3-140
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to 199 older single-family units, 107 to 187 mobile homes, and 71 to 123
rental units would be required.
School enrollment will increase by 246 to 396 students due to
project related population increases. With the completion of a new high
school, the school district will have the capacity to meet demand from
the project and non-project enrollment and current growth rates.
The population increase induced by the Farmland project will
decrease the per capita level of fire protection by 5 to 8 percent,
requiring the hiring of 7 to 12 additional fire fighters to equal
current levels. However, because the population increase is most likely
to occur where the fire protection is best in terms of response time,
the level of fire protection service may not decrease significantly.
Without expansion to meet demands by the project-induced population
increase, the per capita level of medical service will also decrease by
5 to 8 percent, requiring the hiring of at least one medical doctor and
three to six hospital beds to equal current levels. At the same time,
the employment stability of the phosphate industry and the population
increase generated by the project might attract additional services to
the county.
3.8.2.2.5 Public Finance
The Farmland project will generate revenue for Hardee County
through ad valorem taxation and redistribution of sales tax collected in
Hardee County. Once operations commence, the annual revenue generated
by the project is estimated at $900,000. Approximately 31.2 percent of
the ad valorem revenue will go to the general county fund, 66.4 percent
to the school district, and 2.4 percent to the SWFWMD and the Peace
River Basin. Most of the sales tax revenue will be distributed to
Wauchula, Zolfo Springs, and Bowling Green on a per capita basis.
Hardee County expenditures generated by the Farmland project will
consist of one-time capital improvement costs and annual operating
3-141
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expenditures. The capital improvement costs are estimated to total
$2.43 million; annual county expenditures will increase from $701,000 to
$928,000, depending on population scenario. Increased annual expendi-
tures will be required for educational costs, road maintenance, and
additional administrative and service personnel.
While the Farmland project will increase Hardee County expendi-
tures, revenue availability will normally exceed expenditure demands.
An exception may occur in 1984 should a major capital expenditure be
required to pave the Fort Green-Ona Road. However, after operation
commences, revenue generated will exceed expenditures. Some minor
mismatches between county and municipal revenue/expenditure may occur,
but should be minimized by municipal service charges and the sales tax
revenue they receive.
The project will also generate about $2.4 million in severance tax
revenue annually, of which 50 to 75 percent will go to the General
Revenue Fund of the State of Florida. The remainder of the revenue will
be credited to the Land Reclamation Trust Fund and the Florida Institute
of Phosphate Research.
3.8.2.2.6 Cultural Resources
Pursuant to Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act,
EPA consulted with the State Historic Preservation Officer (SHPO), and
the Florida Division of Archives, History, and Records Management; to
obtain an evaluation of the cultural resource impacts of the Farmland
project. Based on the results of surveys conducted on the Farmland site
and a review of the Florida Master Site File, the SHOP provided EPA
his opinion that the proposed Farmland mine is unlikely to affect any
archaeological or historic sites listed, or eligible for listing, on the
National Register of Historic Places, or otherwise of national, state or
local significance (Percy 1980).
3-142
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3.8.2.2.7 Visual Resources
Construction. Construction impact assessment for visual resources only
considers the completed results of initial construction such as finished
buildings, access roads, settling areas, grading, and retention dams.
Actual construction activities may be unsightly at times, but this
disturbance occurs over a shorter time period and is less significant
than the total impact of the completed project elements before operation
begins. This discussion will be limited to the beneficiation plant
complex and settling areas. Mining activities are included in the
operations discussion.
Beneficiation plant complex construction would substantially change
the landform in order to create the waste disposal recirculation system
that includes canals, clean water pond, and retention dams. The re-
tention dam heights would be as much as 41 ft above the natural grade,
which is relatively flat, and have slopes between 20 and 40 percent.
The height, slope, and configuration of these dams are not character-
istic of this rural area. This landform contrast would be a negative
visual impact and would be particularly perceptible to motorists on SR
663 and SR 64.
Large rectangular areas of vegetation would be cleared to construct
the beneficiation plant and settling areas. The existing random vege-
tation patterns and lines would be replaced with sharp, rigid lines that
would direct views from SR 663 and SR 64 toward the plant structures.
The resulting contrast would be a moderate negative visual impact. Some
of this harsh contrast would be reduced once the dams were revegetated
for stabilization.
Beneficiation plant structures would create strong visual contrasts
in this rural setting. The texture, color, height, and form of these
industrial structures are unlike nearby rural structures and do not
blend into the surrounding area. The contrasts represent a strong
negative visual impact. Initially, the plant would be partially
3-143
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obscured from view by existing vegetation but as mining progresses visi-
bility of the plant would increase. Views from East Whidden Road would
be the least affected because the preserved areas south of the plant
would block views of most of the structures.
Operation. The landforms of the mine site would be totally transformed
during mining operation except in most preserved areas. Open pits,
water ponds, spoil piles, and retention dams all strongly contrast with
the existing conditions. Portions of stream channels would be totally
relocated. Retention dams and spoil piles along roadsides would be the
most easily detectable landform change. The buffer along the roadways
is not adequately vegetated to provide significant screening. Parcels
not owned by Farmland would screen some views, especially along SR 661.
Most mining, however, would occur adjacent to the roadways. The nega-
tive visual impact to the landform would be the greatest during the
middle of the mine's life and then decline as restoration results become
noticeable.
Mining operations would remove vegetation gradually, but there
would be sharply defined (mechanical) lines and abrupt color changes
between existing vegetation and the mining area. These contrasts will
be strongest near the preserved areas where vegetation is dense, tall,
and irregularly shaped. The contrast would be less distinct in the re-
maining areas that are primarily citrus and pasture. Strong line
contrasts would also be created where vegetation is removed in the
preserved areas for dragline crossings. As mining progresses and larger
areas become void of vegetation, the contrasts would become more notice-
able. The reclamation/revegetation process (discussed below) would take
several years to reduce the majority of visual contrasts. These con-
trasts caused by changes in the vegetation patterns would be a strong
negative visual impact.
Although it is not an actual fixed structure, the dragline would be
large enough to create a noticeable contrasting profile in the rela-
tively flat terrain.
3-144
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Post-Reclamation and Abandonment. After reclamation the landforms would
be different from the existing conditions. The final topography would
be defined as a series of plateaus rather than flat land and would be
higher in elevation than the surrounding areas. Elevation differences
would be most noticeable from the roadways. The form of the topography
would appear manipulated when compared to the existing and surrounding
terrain. Former settling areas would create a stronger contrast to the
surrounding terrain than other site areas because of a greater increase
in elevation. Wetland and lake areas would have strong line and form
contrasts because they appear manipulated and unnatural when compared to
similar natural areas. Revegetation would reduce or obscure some
landform contrasts in the wetland and lake areas but it would take
several years to do so.
Revegetation efforts for the post-reclamation plan would totally
change the quality of the existing random and irregular mixture of open
space and natural areas. Strong contrasts in form and line would occur
where reforestation strips meet preserved areas. These strips appear
utilitarian, repetitious, and rigid when compared to the existing and
surrounding vegetation patterns. The proposed vegetation patterns (land
uses) would not blend harmoniously with the preserved areas causing
preserved areas to appear isolated. Revegetation would not begin until
approximately 7 years after mining is initiated and the success of these
efforts is uncertain (experimental in some areas). Therefore, the
vegetation contrasts would exist throughout the project life and years
after mining ceases. The proposed vegetation of the post-reclamation
plan when fully matured would still create negative visual impacts.
Removal of all unnecessary buildings from the mine site after
project completion, as proposed by Farmland, would restore the agri-
cultural scale of the area and improve the visual quality.
Summary. Construction, operation, and reclamation of the mine site
would create a variety of moderate to strong visual impacts. Initially,
the mining sequence would isolate the impacts and allow some to be
3-145
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Clausen, C.J., H.K. Brooks, and A.B. Wesolowsky. 1975. Florida Spring
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3-146
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Beneficiation, Hardee County, Florida. Prepared by Armac Engi-
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Hershfield, D.M. 1961. Rainfall Frequency Atlas of the U.S. for
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3-147
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the Florida Chapter of the Wildlife Society to John E. Hagan, III,
Chief, EIS Branch, U.S. EPA, Atlanta, GA. June 20, 1978.
Trescott, P.C. 1973. Iterative Digital Model for Aquifer Evaluation
U.S.G.S. Open File Report. 63 pp.
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. 1976. Florida Phosphate Lands,
Interim Recommendations for Radiation Levels. Federal Register
41(123-June 24).
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. 1977a. Compilation of Air
Pollutant Emission Factors. AP-2, Pt. A and B, 2nd Ed.
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. 1977. Effects of Phosphate
Mineralization and the Phosphate Industry on Radium-226 in Ground-
water of Central Florida. Office of Radiation Programs, Las Vegas,
Nevada. EPA/520-6-77-010.
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. 1978a. Central Florida Phosphate
Industry Areawide Impact Assessment Program, Volume IV: Atmosphere.
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. 1978. Final Environmental Impact
Statement, Central Florida Phosphate Industry, Volume I Impact of
Proposed Action. EPA 904/9-78-026a.
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. 1979. Development Document for
Effluent Limitations Guidelines and Standards, Mineral Mining and
Processing Industry, Point Source Category.
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. 1979a. Noise Resource Document,
Estech General Chemicals Corporation Draft Environmental Impact
Statement. EPA 904/9-79-044D.
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. 1979b. Indoor Radiation Exposure
Due to Radium-226 in Florida Phosphate Lands. Office of Radiation
Programs, Washington, D.C. EPA 520/4-78-013.
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. 1979c. Draft Environmental Impact
Statement, Estech General Chemicals Corporation, Duette Mine.
EPA 904-9-79-044.
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 1980. List of Endangered and Threat-
ened Species Which May Occur in the Area of Influence for the
Farmland Industries, Inc. Hardee County, Florida Project. Letter
from D.J. Hankla to A. Jean Tolman (U.S. EPA). May 19, 1980.
3-150
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Ware, F.J. 1969. Effects of Phosphatic Clay Pollution on the Peace
River, Florida. Proc. 23rd Annual Conf. S.E. Assoc. Game Fish
Commiss. p.359-373.
Wood, L.N. 1976. An Archaeological and Historical Survey of the CF
Industries, Inc. Property in Northwestern Hardee County, Florida,
University of S. Florida Archaeological Report, No. 2.
Woodward-Clyde Consultants. 1981. Data on File, Woodward-Clyde Con-
sultants, Clifton, NJ.
Zellars-Williams, Inc. 1978. Radiation and Agricultural Productivity
Analysis of Reclaimed Soils for Farmland's Hardee County Mine.
June 1978.
3-151
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4.0
SHORT-TERM USE VERSUS LONG-TERM PRODUCTIVITY
The mining of phosphate matrix which lies beneath the surface of
the Farmland site and its onsite processing to a "wet rock" state is a
short-term, progressive use involving a portion of the total 7810-acre
site over the expected 20-year life of the mine. The site's produc-
tivity currently includes range and pasture, wildlife, and water. The
following discussion of short-term use versus long-term productivity is
arranged by environmental discipline groups.
4.1 THE PHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT
4.1.1 AIR
4.1.1.1 Short-Term
The mining/processing of phosphate matrix at the Farmland site will
degrade existing air quality and increase existing noise levels.
Meteorological effects will be limited to minor microclimate changes
which occur as areas are cleared.
Air quality would be degraded by continual small emissions over the
life of the mine. Sources include the beneficiation plant (e.g.,
volatile flotation agents), internal combustion engines (e.g., pay-
scrapers), and the disturbed land itself (e.g., Radon-gas). Airborne
dust particles from increased vehicle traffic, mining, and processing
operations may also degrade air quality.
4-1
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Noise levels will increase significantly in the immediate vicinity
of active land clearing, mining, and reclamation operations; and near
the beneficiation plant.
4.1.1.2 Long-Term
Disturbance of the existing geologic strata and surface soils
should intermix the generally leached, nutrient deficient soils occur-
ring over most of the site with those at depth which contain relatively
higher nutrient levels. This action should increase long-term pro-
ductivity. The placement of phosphate bearing clays (as sand-clay mix
fill) at surface levels should also increase long-term productivity of
the site, but the form which this productivity may take is uncertain
because of the uncertainties associated with long-term use of such
areas.
4.1.2 WATER
4.1.2.1 Short-Term
The mining/processing of phosphate matrix at the Farmland site will
result in the disturbance of existing surface water flow patterns and
quantities. Flood flows and low flows of Oak Creek, Hickory Creek, and
Troublesome Creek downstream of the site would be altered by land form
changes, stream severance, diversions, and rerouting by artificial
structures.
The withdrawal of groundwater for matrix processing will create a
core of depression in the potentiometric surface of the Floridan Aqui-
fer, lowering the artesian pressure in nearby wells for the life of the
project. Withdrawals and pit seepage of water from the Surficial
Aquifer will reduce its baseflow contribution to adjacent streams.
Discharges of excess water from the recirculating water system will
degrade the quality of the receiving waters (primarily Hickory Creek).
Water discharged from this system is likely to have higher nutrient
levels (e.g., calcium, magnesium) than the receiving waters, and contain
4-2
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increased concentrations of other undesirable constituents (e.g.,
dissolved solids, silica, fluoride, radium-226).
4.1.2.2 Long-Term
Reclamation plans call for the grading of mined areas to restore
the natural drainage patterns on the site. It is questionable if this
can, in fact, be achieved without more operational experience with sand-
clay mix reclamation. The reclaimed surface may have slower percolation
rates than exist at present, resulting in greater runoff and resultant
increased streamflows. On the other hand, the man-formed surface
contours will likely contain small depressions, etc. (some of which are
planned) where water might collect and evaporate, reducing runoff. In
any event, the long-term effect will most likely be an alteration in the
streamflow quantity and response time within downstream portions of the
affected drainage basins.
Reclamation plans also call for the majority of the site to be
utilized as improved pasture. As such, the vegetative cover will likely
be more sparse than is currently present over most of the area. This,
combined with the nature of the reclaimed sand-clay surface soils which
will occur over most of the area, will likely result in increased
erosional rates and resultant water quality effects. Long-term impacts
may also result from the intensive use of such areas by livestock (e.g.,
increased fecal coliform levels).
4.1.3 ECOLOGY
4.1.3.1 Short-Term
The mining of phosphate matrix at the Farmland site will result in
the destruction of terrestrial and aquatic habitats and loss of many
associated fauna. It is probable that some indigo snakes (a threatened
species) will be among those lost (see Section 7.0 Coordination). More
mobile species will immigrate to unaffected areas. Since the mining
will be a progressive action, occurring over the life of the project,
the indirect impacts (e.g., overpopulation stress) resulting from
4-3
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emigration of displaced individuals should not be evident. Faunal
populations in adjacent and unmined areas will tend to stabilize, so
that at the completion of mining they should be similar to current
levels. The isolation of some unmined areas (e.g., Oak Creek Islands)
may result in their decreased use during the life of the project.
4.1.3.2 Long-Term
Reclamation plans call for the majority of the site to be utilized
for improved pasture and other agricultural uses. Such areas will not
provide all of the habitat requirements for most of the species which
now inhabit the site, thus a long-term loss in the "wildlife" produc-
tivity of these areas will occur. Reclamation plans also call for the
creation of freshwater marsh and lacustrine habitats in areas where pine
flatwoods/palmetto range now occurs. Such reclamation will probably
increase the "wildlife" productivity of these areas. The lakes created
during the reclamation of the final areas mined will greatly increase
the amount of aquatic habitat present on the site, increasing aquatic
productivity substantially.
4.1.4 SOCIOECONOMICS
4.1.4.1 Short-Term
The mining/processing of phosphate matrix at the Farmland site will
result in increased employment and income levels in Hardee County and
the seven-county region. Associated with this employment increase will
be an increase in the population of Hardee County. This increase will
result in increased demands for housing and services. Tax revenues
generated by the project will more than pay for the increased services
required to meet existing levels. Housing demands may not be able to be
met, at least during the initial years of operation.
Mining will destroy minor archaeological sites present on the
property. The loss is not considered significant (see Section 7.0
Coordination).
L-L
-------
Mining of the Farmland site will also have an impact on aesthetics.
The clearing of existing vegetative cover and post-mining condition of
the land will reduce the aesthetic values of the site during the short-
term. However, the land features associated with its current aesthetic
value are not considered unique to the site.
4.1.4.2 Long-Term
The Farmland project will help support long-term economic growth
within Hardee County. Farmland is not the only phosphate mining company
with Hardee County holdings. If the Farmland project and other similar
mines are permitted to operate in the county, population levels, income
levels, and tax revenues should increase significantly over present
levels. It is also probable that such development will bring additional
employment in related industries (e.g., pumping supplies, etc.) and
that industries such as the home building industry will expand.
4-5
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5.0
IRREVERSIBLE OR IRRETRIEVABLE COMMITMENTS OF RESOURCES
A discussion of those resources which would be consumed, depleted,
permanently removed, or destroyed are irreversibly altered by the mining
of phosphate at the Farmland site.
5.1 DEPLETION OF MINERAL RESOURCES
' The extent of recoverable U.S. phosphate reserve has been estimated
at 2.2 billion metric tons (U.S. General Accounting Office 1979). World
reserves of phosphate rock are estimated by the U.S. Bureau of Mines to
be about 27 billion metric tons, but may be much larger (e.g., in 1971
the British Sulphur Corp. estimated world reserves of all grades to be
130 billion metric tons). The estimated current world phosphate rock
production is about 120 million metric tons. The U.S., USSR, and
Morocco are by far the largest producers of rock, accounting for 41, 26,
and 15 percent of world production, respectively. Morocco, however, is
the leader in identified reserves with 66.7 percent of the world's
supply. The U.S. and USSR accounting for only 8.1 and 3.3 percent of
the identified reserves, respectively.
The Bone Valley formation of central Florida is the source of most
of the U.S. production, accounting for about 75 percent of total pro-
duction (which approached 50 million metric tons in 1978).
Two projections of U.S. phosphate rock production have been made—
one by the U.S. Bureau of Mines and one by Chase Econometric Associates
(U.S. General Accounting Office 1979). The Chase forecast indicates
5-1
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that domestic production will increase to 112 million short tons by
2025, but fails to identify the source of these reserves. The U.S.
Bureau of Mines, on the other hand, predicts that U.S. production will
peak in 1985, and then decline. Because the U.S. Bureau of Mines has
not identified any future potential reserves, their forecast predicts
that high grade reserves will be virtually exhausted by 2010.
The U.S. General Accounting Office (1979) has recommended:
11... that the Secretary of the Interior make a thorough review
of the Nation's long-range phosphate position, and report to the
Congress on its future availability, and if appropriate, to suggest
legislative actions needed to ensure supply. Such a review should
be submitted to the Congress by December 1981 and include the
following:
1. A comprehensive assessment of the phosphate reserves of the
Nation and the world. To the extent that this is based on
unverified data, the Secretary should judge the reliability of
Such data and the need, if any, for Government verification of
proprietary (source) records.
2. A determination of the extent to which noneconomic trade-offs,
such as environmental needs and other land-use needs, are
likely to limit future phosphate development.
3. A review and evaluation of alternatives to import dependency
and assessment of their costs.
4. A submission from the Department of Agriculture contributing
to the comprehensive phosphate assessment by estimating future
needs and possible food production alternatives to being
dependent on foreign fertilizer sources."
In March of 1980, then Secretary of the Interior Cecil D. Andrus
responded to the above recommendations. In his letter (Andrus 1980) he
stated that the Department of Interior's most recent projections were
consistent with the statements in the U.S. General Accounting Office
Report, stating "that the United States will continue to be a net
exporter of phosphate until at least the year 2000". Since there is no
projected shortage of domestic phosphate, Andrus requested an extension
(to December 1982) for the completion of the report to the Congress.
5-2
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From the U.S. Bureau of Mines projections, total cumulative U.S.
phosphate production over the next 20 years should be on the order of
1.2 billion tons. The mining of phosphate matrix at a rate of 2 million
tons of rock per year over the 20-year life of the Farmland mine will
amount to 40 million tons, or about 3 percent of total U.S. production.
While this represents an irreversible and irretrievable loss of re-
serves, data are not available to evaluate this loss with respect to
future domestic needs and availability.
Additional commitments of resources will occur as a result of the
consumption of oil, gas, electrical power, and various reagents.
5.2 LANDFORM CHANGES
The mining/processing of phosphate at the Farmland site would
result in an irreversibly altered landform. Natural soil profiles will
be destroyed and existing vegetation cleared. In addition, storage of
waste clays will result in the creation of diked disposal areas 35 ft
high. The removal of matrix in the final years will result in the
formation of lakes where upland areas now occur. The land use of the
reclaimed site will be mostly for improved pasture, rather than the pine
flatwoods/palmetto range which now predominates.
5.3 COMMITMENT OF WATER RESOURCES
At a pumping rate of 8.83 mgd, more than 60 billion gallons of
water will be withdrawn from the Floridan Aquifer over the 20-year life
of the mine.
The disruption of streams during mining, the discharge of excess
water, and the reclamation of the site following mining will have
resultant changes in water quality within their downstream segments.
5-3
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5.4 FISH AND WILDLIFE HABITAT
The existing fish and wildlife habitat of the Farmland site will be
lost and replaced by a modified habitat. The onsite habitat most
affected would be ruderal habitat (i.e., rangeland, pasture, and citrus
groves), 2 percent of which will be lost to mining. However, the
habitat potential of this type is considered to be generally low, except
for the sizeable rangeland areas within Oak Creek Islands which are to
be preserved.
Thirty-five percent of the existing forest habitat on the site will
also be lost, most of this being hardwood upland forest. Species
typically occurring in this habitat include the yellow-billed cuckoo,
pileated woodpecker, red-bellied woodpecker, downy woodpecker, blue jay,
tufted titmouse, Carolina wren, white-eyed vireo, gray squirrel, nine-
banded armadillo, and white-tailed deer. The best forest habitat on the
site occurs within Oak Creek Islands and along the Peace River flood-
plain, areas which are to be preserved.
Twenty-seven percent of the existing wooded swamp habitat will also
be lost. This habitat is comprised of bayheads and hardwood swamps
which are often surrounded by areas of pasture or rangeland, thus
providing cover for wildlife which forage in these areas. Species
frequently observed in this habitat include the white-tailed deer,
raccoon, wild hog, pileated woodpecker, and blue jay.
Seventy-three percent of the freshwater marsh habitat on the site
will also be lost. Although the onsite marshes are small and do not
appear to attract large aggregations of wading birds, they do provide
habitat for many wildlife species including the rice rat, cotton rat,
marsh rabbit, otter, wild hog, white-tailed deer, and wood duck.
5-4
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Farmland's reclamation plan is designed to restore much of the
habitat lost through mining. If successful, the net changes in the
acreage of each of the above habitats would be as follows:
Ruderal, - 298 acres
Forest, + 270 acres
Wooded Swamp, - 261 acres
Freshwater Marsh, + 54 acres
Lakes, + 235 acres
As indicated above, the largest loss will be in ruderal habitats.
This loss is largely due to the loss of 1757 acres of existing citrus
groves. This will be replaced with improved pasture. The net loss of
261 acres of wooded swamp habitat represents the most significant
acreage change. As indicated above, forest habitat will actually
increase following reclamation. Farmland's reclamation plan calls for
the planting (at a density of about 200 trees/acre) of mixed forest spe-
cies. These will consist of 2- to 4-inch diameter trees from areas to
be mined and seedlings from the Florida Forest Service. Initially, the
vegetative characteristics of the mixed forest plantings will be that of
a shrub or herbaceous community. Assuming that no efforts are made to
control vegetative development on these planted areas, a mature mixed
forest community should eventually develop on these areas as a result of
natural vegetative succession. While these areas will provide habitat
for various species through the successional period, the degree to which
such areas will be used by species such as the indigo snake (a threat-
ened species) remains unknown.
5.5 AESTHETICS
If Farmland's reclamation plan is successful, the resultant land-
scape could be a visually acceptable one. This man-made landscape would
be entirely different from that which now occurs. However, future
generations are likely to accept the new landscape as the characteristic
landscape.
5-5
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Permitting of the Farmland project will also contribute to the
evolution of the existing environment of western Hardee County to a
semi-industrialized one. Existing life styles, with their emphasis on
agriculture, are likely to be radically altered as such changes occur.
5.6 HISTORICAL AND ARCHAEOLOGICAL VALUES
Although no significant historical or archaeological sites have
been found to date on the Farmland site, the disturbance resulting from
mining will destroy any historical and archaeological features which
might be found under more intensive efforts. Should any significant
sites occur, their destruction would be an irreversible loss to future
educational and scientific interpretation.
5.7 REFERENCES
Andrus, C.D. 1980. Letter from Secretary of Interior Cecil D. Andrus
to Representative Jack Brooks, Chairman of the Committee on Govern-
ment Operations; March 27, 1980.
U.S. General Accounting Office. 1979. Phosphates: A Case Study of a
Valuable, Depleting Mineral in America. Report by the Comptroller
General to the Congress, EMD-80-21.
5-6
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6.0
COMPARISON OF PROPOSED ACTIVITY WITH AREAWIDE EIS RECOMMENDATIONS
The Final Areawide Environmental Impact Statement for the Central
Florida Phosphate Industry published by EPA in November 1978 evaluated
the impact of various alternative scenarios of phosphate mining in
central Florida. The EPA recommendations represent a scenario of
phosphate development which was determined to be as compatible as
practicable with other desired and intended land uses. This scenario
provides a decision-making tool for all new source phosphate mines in
central Florida. The following discussion compares the proposed ac-
tivity to the EPA recommendations for mining and beneficiation.
6.1 MINING AND BENEFICIATION REQUIREMENTS
6.1.1 ELIMINATE THE ROCK-DRYING PROCESSING AT BENEFICIATION PLANTS AND
TRANSPORT WET ROCK TO CHEMICAL PLANTS
The proposed Farmland project does not include a rock dryer and
calls for all rock to be transported from the site in a wet condition.
6.1.2 MEET STATE OF FLORIDA AND LOCAL EFFLUENT LIMITATIONS FOR ANY
DISCHARGES
Pursuant to Section 401 of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act
as amended (33 USC 1251, 1341), the State of Florida issues certifi-
cation to each applicant for a National Pollutant Discharge Elimination
System (NPDES) permit.
6-1
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All recent NPDES permits issued by the state for phosphate mining
facilities have been certified subject to the following conditions:
• The applicant must comply with all applicable requirements of
Chapter 403, Florida Statutes, and Chapter 17 series, Florida
Administrative Code (FAC).
• Issuance of certification does not constitute state certification
of any future land alteration activities which require 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 conducted in waters of the state which
require separate department permit(s) pursuant to Section 17-4.28,
FAC.
• 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:
Characteristic
TSS
Total P
PH
mg/1
mg/1
Discharge
Limitations
1-Day Max. 30-Day Avg,
25 12
5 3
6.0-9.0 6.0-9.0
Monitoring
Requirements
»
1/wk/ 24-hr.
1/wk/ 24-hr.
Iwk grab
composite
composite
If the above requirements are met, the discharge from this facility
will comply with Sections 301, 302, and 303 of the Federal Water Pollu-
tion Control Act, as amended.
This certification must indicate that the terms and conditions of
the NPDES permit will result in compliance with Sections 301, 302, and
303 of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act as amended. The state
may impose as additional requirements applicable state law or regu-
lations related to water quality standards.
6-2
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6.1.3 ELIMINATE CONVENTIONAL ABOVE GROUND SLIME-DISPOSAL AREAS
The elimination of conventional above ground slime-disposal areas
was recommended by the Areawide EIS. In order to meet this recommen-
dation, the Areawide EIS encouraged the use of waste clays, or a mixture
of sand tailings and waste clays, in reclamation, while at the same time
it recognized the need for an initial above ground storage area and for
retaining dikes around sand-clay mix areas.
Farmland's proposal conforms to this recommendation. Farmland has
committed in their mine plan to use a sand-clay mix in land reclamation
and thereby reduce the need for traditional, separate disposal areas.
The 495-acre initial clay settling area (Area I) planned by Farmland
will receive all clay wastes generated before the sand-clay mix pro-
cedure becomes operational. Clays stored here will eventually be used
in a special sand-clay mix disposal area. A second 583-acre area (Area
II) will remain active throughout the mine life to receive clay wastes
in excess of the sand-clay mix requirements and to serve as a secondary
water clarification and storage area.. This will be the only conven-
tional clay storage area left on the site. Upon completion of mining,
drainage and drying will be induced to provide for subsidence and crust
development of this area. Once the clay has subsided to the desired
level, the exterior retaining dike will be pushed toward and away from
the settling area to establish a lower grade slope and provide some
coarser textured material for the interior soils.
6.1.4 MEET SOUTHWEST FLORIDA CONSUMPTIVE USE PERMIT REQUIREMENTS
The Areawide EIS recommended that any new source mine and bene-
ficiation plant meet Southwest Florida Water Management District
(SWFWMD) consumptive use permit requirements. Farmland is obligated to
the terms and conditions of the SWFWMD Consumptive Use Permit. Should
Farmland fail to comply with all of the conditions set forth in the
permit, then the permit shall automatically become null and void.
6-3
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6.1.5 PROVIDE STORAGE THAT ALLOWS RECIRCULATION OF WATER RECOVERED FROM
SLIMES
The Areawlde EIS recommended that the new source mine provide
storage that allows recirculation of water recovered from slimes. The
water recirculation system for Farmland's proposed mining and bene-
ficiation facility provides for containment and for approximately 90
percent water recirculation so that a discharge should be required only
during periods of heavy rainfall.
6.1.6 USE OF CONNECTOR WELLS
Another Areawide EIS recommendation was for the use of connector
wells. Farmland does not propose to use connector wells to recharge the
Floridan Aquifer with groundwater from the Surficial Aquifer, nor was
the use of connector wells made a condition of Farmland's SWFWMD Con-
sumptive Use Permit. High gross alpha radiation levels were found in
Surficial Aquifer water at the site.
6.1.7 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 AND DEVELOP A RECLAMATION PLAN THAT CONSIDERS
RADIATION OF SPOIL MATERIAL AND REDUCES AS MUCH AS POSSIBLE THE
AMOUNT OF RADIONUCLIDE-BEARING MATERIAL LEFT WITHIN 3-4 FEET OF
THE SURFACE
Should buildings (such as residences) be located on the reclaimed
Farmland site, indoor radon and radon progeny concentrations would be
higher in these structures than outdoors. For any homes that are
constructed, the predicted indoor radon progeny (WL) could range from
0.011 over reclaimed sand tailings to 0.018 WL over reclaimed clay
settling areas. The value for homes over sand-clay mix areas would be
0.013 WL. Slab-on-grade structures in Polk County over undisturbed
lands have WLs ranging from 0.001 to 0.010, with a geometric mean of
0.003. Two standards for WL in existing homes have been proposed: (1)
a 0.029 WL total exposure including background (Florida Department of
6-4
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Health and Rehabilitation Services 1978) and (2) a 0.020 WL total
exposure including background (EPA 1979a). The reclamation processes
and undeveloped lands were not addressed in detail in EPA's 1979 recom-
mendations to the Governor of Florida. However, the following specific
guidance was provided by EPA (1979b) for new homes on any reclaimed,
debris, and unmined lands which contain phosphate resources:
"IV. Development sites for new residences should be selected
and prepared, and the residences so designed and sited, that the
annual average indoor ...." Working Levels " ...do not exceed ....
background levels...."
If the final guidance for reclaimed lands is similar to the recom-
mendation quoted above, then the upper limit of predicted WLs in slab-
on-grade homes will be approximately 0.009 WL (normal background of
0.004 WL plus the uncertainty of 0.005 WL). Overall, the reclaimed
Farmland site will slightly exceed this upper range. However, Farm-
land's reclamation plan does not include'plans for residential devel-
opment. If residences were planned they could not be slab-on-grade;
they would have to be designed so as to prohibit the accumulation of
radon progeny to levels above the .009 WL limit.
6.1.8 MEET COUNTY AND STATE RECLAMATION REQUIREMENTS AND INCLUDE AN
INVENTORY OF TYPES OF WILDLIFE HABITAT IN THE AREA TO BE MINED
AND THE AREA IMMEDIATELY SURROUNDING IT
On December 4, 1980, Hardee County issued Farmland a Development
Order for their project. A Master Plan has also been filed pursuant to
the Hardee County Mining and Earthmoving Ordinance.
An inventory of the types of wildlife habitat in the area to be
mined by Farmland and in the immediate surrounding area was made and is
included in the EIS.
6-5
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6.1.9 THE MINING AND RECLAMATION PLAN WILL TAKE INTO ACCOUNT THE
PROTECTION AND RESTORATION OF HABITAT so SELECTED SPECIES OF
WILDLIFE WILL BE ADEQUATELY PROTECTED DURING MINING AND
RECLAMATION
Farmland's mining plan calls for areas to be cleared only as the
time of mining approaches. On the average, only about 20 acres should
be cleared ahead of the mining operation. Clearing should occur at a
rate of about 250 acres per year.
Farmland's proposed reclamation plan calls for reclamation of the
mine site to be undertaken as mining proceeds, so that reclamation of
the areas mined initially will be completed during the 9th year of
operation and all reclamation will be completed 30 years after mining
begins. Included in the Farmland plan is the restoration of some mined
areas as wildlife habitat. The net effect of this plan on the extent of
the general vegetation associations which currently exist on the site
will be as follows:
Vegetation Current Disturbed Preserved Reclaimed
Association Acreage Acreage Acreage Acreage
Forested
Uplands
Freshwater
Swamp
Freshwater
Marsh
Pine Flatwoods/
Palmetto
Citrus
Improved
Pasture/
Cropland
Lakes
A Acreage
Post-Reel. Current:
Acreage Post-Reel.
790
1205
392
„/
s/
ge 937
1917
2569
0
280
320
285
583
1757
2055
0
510
885
107
354
160
514
0
550
59
339
0
*
4097
235
1060
944
446
354
160
4611
235
+270 (+34%)
-221 (-22%)
+54 (+14%)
-583 (-62%)
-1757 (-92%)
+204 2 (+7 9%)
+235
7810
5280
2530
5280
7810
*0nly a small citrus planting is planned on reclaimed land.
6-6
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As indicated above, the proposed reclamation plan will greatly
increase the acreage on the mine site devoted to pasture and crops. The
acreage occupied by forested uplands, freshwater marsh, and lakes will
also increase. Most of the reclaimed forested upland acreage (344 of
550 acres) will be in the form of strip plantings between pasture and
cropland areas. Only native species will be used in the plantings.
Among the species which will be adversely affected by the project,
is one (the indigo snake) considered threatened by the U.S. Fish and
Wildlife Service. In order to assess the impact which the project will
have on this species population, consultation procedures were imple-
mented with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (see Section 7.0 Coor-
dination). The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service provided EPA with a
Biological Opinion regarding the effects of the project on endangered
and threatened species, stating that the population should not be
adversely affected by the proposed Farmland project.
6.1.10 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)
No specific boundaries of wetland areas have been officially
identified by the Corps of Engineers. The following three categories of
wetlands were, however, established by EPA in the Central Florida
Phosphate EIS:
Category 1: Wetlands to be protected (not mined).
Category 2; Wetlands which may be mined but must be restored as
wetlands capable of performing useful wetland
functions.
Category 3:
Wetlands which can be mined without restoration as
wetlands.
6-7
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Wetlands on the Farmland site were categorized following EPA
criteria (EPA 1978; 1979). Wetland areas on the property (see Figure
3-9) were classified as either Category 1, 2, or 3 as follows:
• Category 1 Wetlands are those wetlands on the site which occur
within the 25-year floodplain of the Peace River or its tributaries
upstream to the point of 5 cfs mean annual flow, or wetlands
considered to be significant wildlife habitat.
• Category 2 Wetlands are those wetlands which occur in the 25-year
floodplain upstream of the point of 5 cfs and isolated wetlands in
excess of 5 acres in size.
• Category 3 Wetlands are isolated wetlands 5 acres or less.
The Category 1 wetlands on the site should include, but are not
limited to, those wetlands covered by the Corps' Section 404 jurisdiction.
Farmland's proposed mine plan will result in the loss and pro-
tection of the following acreages of each of the above wetland categories:
Acres
Lost
0
514
91
Acres
Protected
710
264
18
Percent
Protected
100
34
16
Category 1
Category 2
Category 3
Totals 605 992 62
Farmland's reclamation plan will restore 398 acres of wetlands on
the mined site. This amounts to 77 percent of the Category 2 wetlands
on the site.
6-8
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6.1.11 MAKE EFFORTS TO PRESERVE ARCHAEOLOGICAL 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
SHOULD BE SUBMITTED TO THAT STATE AGENCY FOR EXAMINATION AND
COMMENT
An archaeological/historical survey of the Farmland site was
conducted and the results were submitted to the Florida Division of
Archives, History, and Records Management. It was the opinion of this
agency that the archaeological and historical resources of the site did
not merit any further mitigative or preservation measures.
6.2 REFERENCES
Florida Department of Rehabilitation Services. 1978. Study of Radon
Daughter Concentrations in Structures in Polk and Hillsborough
Counties.
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. 1978. Final Environmental Impact
Statement for the Central Florida Phosphate Industry. EPA 904/9-
78-026a.
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. 1979a. Draft Environmental
Impact Statement, Estech General Chemicals Corporation, Duette
Mine. EPA 904/9-79-044.
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. 1979b. Indoor Radiation Exposure
due to Radium-226 in Florida Phosphate Lands. Office of Radiation
Programs, Washington, D.C. EPA 520//I-78-013.
6-9
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7.0
COORDINATION
7.1 DRAFT ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENT COORDINATION LIST
The following Federal, state and local agencies, public officials,
organizations, and interest groups have been requested to comment on
this impact statement.
Federal Agencies
Bureau of Outdoor Recreation
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 Paula Hawkins
United States Senate
Honorable Andy P. Ireland
U.S. House of Representatives
7-1
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State
Honorable D. Robert Graham
Governor
Coastal Coordinating Council
Department of Natural Resources
Department of Agriculture and
Consumer Services
Department of Community Affairs
Geological Survey
Game and Freshwater Fish
Commission
Department of Administration
Department of State
Environmental Regulation Committee
Department of Commerce
Department of Health and
Rehabilitative Services
Bureau of Intergovernmental
Relations
Department of Environmental
Regulation
Department of Transportation
Local and Regional
Polk County Commission
Manatee County Commission
DeSoto County Commission
Hardee County Commission
Hardee County Building & Zoning
Department
Tampa Bay Regional Planning
Council
Central Florida Regional
Planning Council
Southwest Florida Water
Management District
The Fertilizer Institute
Florida Phosphate Council
Florida Audubon Society
Florida Sierra Club
Manasota 88
Interest Groups
Florida Defenders of the
Environment
Izaak Walton League of
America
Florida Wildlife Federation
7.2 PUBLIC PARTICIPATION AND SCOPING
On July 13, 1979, EPA published a Notice of Intent to prepare an
EIS for the proposed project which at that time included plans for a
chemical fertilizer plant. A scoping meeting for the project was held
by EPA in Mulberry, Florida on August 1, 1979. As a result of these
efforts to foster public participation, comments regarding the Farmland
project were received by EPA during the period leading to the publi-
cation of the Draft EIS.
Most of the comments made at the project scoping meeting and in the
correspondence which followed were concerned with the potential impacts
of the proposed chemical plant. However, in December 1980, Hardee
7-2
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County denied local approval (Development Order and zoning change) for
the chemical plant portion of the project. As a result, Farmland
revised its proposed project to include only the mining and benefici-
ation of phosphate rock at the site (Farmland's proposed action des-
cribed in this EIS). Accordingly, in February 1981 EPA notified all the
participants in the scoping process of this reduction in the scope of
the EIS.
7.3 CONSULTATION WITH THE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF INTERIOR
EPA has performed all consultation procedures in accordance with
the requirements of Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as
amended. On May 9, 1980, EPA provided the U.S. Department of Interior,
Fish and Wildlife Service (USF&WS) with a description of the proposed
Farmland project and requested that a list of endangered and/or threat-
ened species which may occur in the project's area of influence be
provided to EPA (EPA 1980a). On May 19, 1980, the USF&WS commented that
three (3) endangered species and two (2) threatened species may be
present in the area (USF&WS 1980a). These are as follows:
Endangered Threatened
Bald eagle American alligator
Red-cockaded woodpecker Eastern indigo snake
Arctic peregrine falcon
On July 16, 1980, EPA provided USF&WS with a biological assessment
of the impacts of the Farmland project on endangered and/or threatened
species required by Section 7(c) of the Endangered Species Act (EPA
1980b). EPA indicated that after their review of the assessment, they
determined that the proposed Federal action (i.e., issuance of a NPDES
permit for the proposed project), may effect certain species and offi-
cially requested that Section 7 consultation procedures be implemented.
On August 19, 1980 USF&WS responded to this request by providing a
Biological Opinion regarding the effects of Farmland's proposed project
on endangered and threatened species (USF&WS 1980b).
7-3
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USF&WS stated that, in their opinion, the proposed project is not
likely to jeopardize the continued existence of any of the species
included in their May 19, 1980 listing or adversely modify habitat
essential for their existence. USF&WS did, however, make recommen-
dations to reduce the probability of outright destruction of individuals
of one species listed—the eastern indigo snake. These are presented as
mitigation measures in Section 2.8.6. It was also requested that
Farmland contact the Endangered Species Coordinator for the Florida Game
and Freshwater Fish Commission regarding the relocation of indigo
snakes encountered on the property and that Farmland maintain records
and report to USF&WS the number of indigo snakes relocated and where,
and the number of mortalities incurred in the relocation program.
7.4 CONSULTATION WITH THE STATE HISTORIC PRESERVATION OFFICER
EPA has carried out all consultation requirements established by
Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966. On July
15, 1980, EPA provided the State Historic Preservation Officer (SHPO),
Florida Department of State, Division of Archives, History and Records
Management, with a description of the proposed Farmland project and a
Cultural Resources Assessment of the Farmland site (EPA 1980c) pursuant
to the procedures for consultation and comment promulgated by the
Advisory Council on Historic Preservation in 36CFR Part 800. On October
14, 1980, the SHPO replied to the EPA request by stating that it is
unlikely that the Farmland project will affect any archaeological or
historic sites listed or eligible for listing in the National Register
of Historic Places, or otherwise of national, state, or local signif-
icance (Percy 1980).
7.5 COORDINATION WITH THE U.S. ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS
Certain wetlands on the Farmland site fall under the jurisdiction
of the Corps of Engineers (Corps), and the execution of the proposed
project in those areas will require a Section 404 (Federal Water Pollu-
tion Control Act) permit from the Corps. In view of the Corps'
7-4
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responsibility in this area, EPA has coordinated closely with them in
the preparation of this EIS. In July 1979, EPA, the Corps, and Farmland
executed a joint Memorandum of Understanding which established EPA as
the lead agency and the Corps as a cooperating agency in preparing the
EIS. The Corps was subsequently provided the opportunity for review and
comment on the Plan of Study and on all work performed by the third
party consultant including the Preliminary Draft EIS.
7.6 REFERENCES
Percy, G.W. 1980. Letter from George W. Percy, Deputy State Historic
Preservation Officer, to A. Jean Tolman, U.S. EPA Region IV.
October 14, 1980.
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. 1980a. Letter from A. Jean
Tolman, U.S. EPA Region IV, to Don Palmer U.S. Fish and Wildlife
Service, Jacksonville, FL. May 9, 1980.
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. 1980b. Letter from A. Jean
Tolman, U.S. EPA Region IV, to David Peterson U.S. Fish and
Wildlife Service, Jacksonville, FL. July 16, 1980.
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. 1980c. Letter from A. Jean
Tolman, U.S. EPA Region IV, to L. Ross Morell Florida Department
of State, Tallahassee. July 15, 1980.
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 1980a. Letter from Donald J. Hankla,
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Jacksonville, FL, to A. Jean Tolman,
U.S. EPA Region IV. May 19, 1980.
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 1980b. Letter from Clayton J. Lankford,
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Atlanta, to A. Jean Tolman, U.S.
EPA Region IV, August 19, 1980.
7-5
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8.0
LIST OF PREPARERS
The Draft EIS for the Farmland project was prepared for EPA by
Woodward-Clyde Consultants (WCC) of Clifton, New Jersey using the third
party EIS preparation method. The names and qualifications of the WCC
staff responsible for the preparation of this EIS are presented in Table
8-1. An independent evaluation of all information presented in the EIS
was also performed by the following EPA officials.
Name Resporis ibili ty
Robert B. Howard Chief, EIS Preparation Section
A. Jean Tolman EIS Project Officer
Lionel Alexander III NPDES Permit Coordinator
D. Brian Mitchell Air Quality
Doyle Brittain Air Quality
James E. Orban Noise
A. Eugene Coker Geology and Groundwater
H. Richard Payne Radiation
Curtis F. Fehn Groundwater
Thomas R. Cavinder Surface Water .
John T. Marlar Surface Water
William L. Kruczynski Biology and Ecology
Delbert B. Hicks Biology and Ecology
For information on the material presented in this section, contact
A. Jean Tolman at (404)881-7458 (FTS/257-7458).
8-1
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Table 8-1. NAMES, QUALIFICATIONS, AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF PERSONS WHO WERE PRIMARILY
RESPONSIBLE FOR PREPARING THE FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC. DRAFT ENVIRONMENTAL
IMPACT STATEMENT.
Name
Richard A. Millet
Raymond L. Hinkle
Perry H. Fontana
Donald R. Ganser
Ralph E. Luebs
Leland R. Bunney
John C. Halepaska
Gary G. Kaufman
Thomas G. Campbell
Wayne F. MacCallum
Hilton G. Carter
Robert F. Brewer
Jerry J. Cape
Qualifications
M.S. Civil Engineering; Principal and Vice
President, Woodward-Clyde Consultants, 17
years experience including the direction of
interdiscipline studies for phosphate mining
projects and power plant siting projects.
M.S. Wildlife Management; Project Scientist,
Woodward-Clyde Consultants; 9 years experience
in the preparation of environmental impact
statements for a variety of projects including
phosphate mines.
M.S. Meteorology; Staff Scientist, Woodward-
Clyde Consultants; 4 years experience in
environmental studies involving meteorology
and air quality including air quality impact
assessments for phosphate rock processing
operations.
B.S. Geology; Project Geologist, Woodward-
Clyde Consultants; 10 years experience in
conducting engineering geologic investigations
and groundwater studies for projects including
phosphate mining operations.
Ph.D. Soil Fertility; Agronomist, Woodward-
Clyde Consultants; 33 years experience in-
cluding the planning of and interpretation of
results from soils investigations for evalu-
ating the impact of mining on the environment
and for reclamation of surface mined land.
M.S. Physical Chemistry; Radiological Chemist,
Woodward-Clyde Consultants; 31 years experience
in radiochemistry, nuclear chemistry, ion
exchange, trace element analyses, and the evalu-
ation of environmental hazards of radioactive
materials.
Ph.D. Geoscience; Senior Hydrologist, Woodward-
Clyde Consultants; 18 years experience in the
study of various phases of groundwater hydrol-
ogy including the theory and control of seep-
age from earth tailings dams, earth water
retention dams, and gypsum fields at phosphate
fertilizer plants.
M.S. Environmental Engineering; Senior Staff
Engineer, Woodward-Clyde Consultants; 9 years
experience including the evaluation of poten-
tial water quality effects of solid and
hazardous waste disposal.
M.S. Marine Sciences; Staff Scientist, Woodward- Aquatic Ecology
Clyde Consultants; 6 years experience in the
collection and analysis of data from aquatic
environments as well as impact analysis.
Responsibility
Project Sponsor
Project Manager
Air Quality, Meteorology, and
Noise
Geology
Soils
Radiation
Hydrology
Water Quality
H.S. Wildlife Management; Senior Project
Scientist, Woodward-Clyde Consultants; 9
years experience in the collection and
analysis of data from terrestrial environ-
ments and impact analyses for a variety of
projects.
M.C.R.P. City and Regional Planning; Staff
Scientist, Woodward-Clyde Consultants; 3 years
experience in evaluating socioeconomics impacts
for both large and small scale industrial
developments.
Ph.D. Horticulture and Soil Chemistry; Asso-
ciate Horticulturist at the University of
California with 21 years experience as a. con-
sultant in the area of air pollution effects
on agricultural crops, including citrus.
B.S. Mining Engineering; Consulting Engineer
(P.E.) with 18 years experience in minerals
development projects from mining prospect
data evaluations through conceptual planning,
construction, and start-up.
Terrestrial Ecology
Socioeconomics
Citrus
Alternatives and Mine Plan
Evaluation
8-2
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9.0 INDEX
Air Quality, 2-103, 3-2, 3-5, 3-9 thru 3-13, 4-1
Alternatives
Environmentally Preferrable, 2-100
EPA's Preferred, 2-100
Matrix Processing, 2-45, 3-11, 3-35, 3-58, 3-78, 3-96
Matrix Transport, 2-36, 3-10, 3-58, 3-78, 3-96
Mining, 2-31, 3-9, 3-20, 3-33, 3-56, 3-71, 3-93, 3-111
No Action, 2-96, 3-9, 3-20, 3-33, 3-55, 3-71, 3-93, 3-111, 3-137
Process Water Source, 2-61, 3-60, 3-&2, 3-98, 3-124
Reclamation, 2-90, 3-12, 3-24, 3-40, 3-64, 3-88, 3-99, 3-124
Waste Sand and Clay Disposal, 2-57, 3-21, 3-38, 3-61, 3-79, 3-97,
3-122
Water Management Plan, 2-65, 3-64, 3-83, 3-98
Aquatic Ecology, 2-95, 2-103, 3-91 thru 3-101, 4-3, 5-4
Aquifers
Florldan, 3-43, 3-48, 3-50 thru 3-52, 3-54 thru 3-56, 3-58 thru
3-61, 3-64
Secondary Artesian, 3-43, 3-44, 3-47 thru 3-49, 3-52, 3-54, 3-55
Surficial, 3-43 thru 3-47, 3-52, 3-55 thru 3-58, 3-60 thru 3-65,
3-116, 3-122
Creeks
Hickory, 2-10, 2-15, 3-66 thru 3-76, 3-80, 3-82 thru 3-84, 3-91,
3-93, 3-96, 3-98 thru 3-100, 3-116
Oak, 2-10, 2-15, 3-66 thru 3-74, 3-76, 3-77, 3-80, 3-82 thru
3-84, 3-91, 3-94, 3-96, 3-98, 3-100, 3-126
Troublesome, 3-66 thru 3-71, 3-73 thru 3-75, 3-116
Dikes, 2-48, 2-49, 2-51
Dike Failure, 3-80, 3-97, 3-123
Discharge, 2-10 thru 2-16, 2-99, 2-100
Endangered and Threatened Species, 3-92, 3-105, 3-109, 3-119, 4-3,
5-5, 7-4
Farmland's Proposed Action
Matrix Processing, 2-3, 2-37, 3-11, 3-35, 3-58, 3-78, 3-96
Matrix Transport, 2-3, 2-32, 3-10, 3-57, 3-78, 3-96
Mining, 2-1, 2-21. 3-9. 3-20, 3-34, 3-56, 3-71, 3-93, 3-111
Mitigation Measures, 2-16, 2-20, 2-21
Process Water Source, 2-10, 2-58, 3-60, 3-82, 3-98, 3-124
Reclamation, 2-16, 2-65, 3-12, 3-24, 3-40, 3-64, 3-88, 3-99,
3-124
Waste Sand and Clay Disposal, 2-8, 2-46, 3-21, 3-38, 3-61, 3-79,
3-97, 3-122
Water Management Plan, 2-10, 2-62, 3-64, 3-83, 3-98
Geology, 2-91, 2-103, 3-13, 3-14, 3-20
Groundwater
Quality, 2-93, 2-103, 3-52 thru 3-65
Quantity, 2-92, 2-103, 3-51, 3-55 thru 3-65
Lakes, 3-88, 3-100, 3-101, 3-126
Matrix Processing
Conventional, 2-37, 3-11, 3-35, 3-58, 3-78, 3-96
Dry, 2-43, 3-12, 3-37, 3-60, 3-79, 3-97
Matrix Transport
Conveyor, 2-31, 2-34, 3-11, 3-57, 3-78, 3-96
Slurry, 2-32, 3-10, 3-57, 3-78, 3-96
Truck, 2-36, 3-11, 3-58, 3-78, 3-96
Meteorology, 3-2 thru 3-5
Mining
Bucketvheel, 2-29, 3-10, 3-21, 3-35, 3-57, 3-78, 3-95, 3-122
Dragline, 2-22, 3-9, 3-20, 3-33, 3-56, 3-71, 3-93, 3-111
Dredge, 2-26, 3-10, 3-21, 3-35, 3-56, 3-79, 3-95, 3-122
Noise, 2-103, 3-7, 3-9 thru 3-13
Oak Creek Islands, 2-3
Peace River, 3-66, 3-67, 3-69 thru 3-71, 3-91
Preserved Areas, 2-3, 2-5
Process Water Sources
Groundvater Withdraval, 2-58, 3-60, 3-82, 3-98, 3-124
Surface Water Impoundment, 2-60, 3-60, 3-82, 3-98, 3-124
Radiation, 2-91, 2-103, 3-26 thru 3-43
Reclamation Plan
Conventional, 2-89, 3-12, 3-25, 3-43, 3-65, 3-90, 3-101, 3-124
Farmland's, 2-65, 3-12, 3-24, 3-40, 3-64, 3-88, 3-99, 3-124
Natural Mine Cut, 2-90, 3-13, 3-25, 3-43, 3-65, 3-90, 3-101,
3-128
Socioeconomics, 2-95, 2-103, 3-128 thru 3-145, 4-4, 5-6, 6-9
Soils, 2-103, 3-14 thru 3-25
Surface Water
Quality, 2-93, 2-103, 3-67 thru 3-90, 4-2, 5-3
Quantity, 2-92, 2-103, 3-66, 3-71 thru 3-90, 4-27, 5-3
Terrestrial Ecology
Vegetation, 2-93, 2-103, 3-102, 3-111 thru 3-128
Wildlife, 2-93, 2-103, 3-102 thru 3-105, 3-111 thru 3-128
Waste Sand and Clay Disposal
Conventional, 2-55, 3-23, 3-38, 3-62, 3-81, 3-97, 3-123
Discharge to Surface Waters, 2-64, 3-64, 3-83, 3-98
Water Management Plan
Connector Wells, 2-64, 3-64, 3-88, 3-99
Discharge to Surface Waters, 2-64, 3-64, 3-83, 3-98
Wetlands, 3-104, 3-105, 3-114 thru 3-116, 3-126
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APPENDIX A
DRAFT NPDES PERMIT FOR THE FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC. MINE PROJECT
HARDEE COUNTY, FLORIDA
-------
Permit No. FL0037915
UNITED STATES ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY
REGION IV
343 COURTUANO STREET
ATLANTA. GEORGIA J0345
AUTHORIZATION TO DISCHARGE UNDER THE
NATIONAL POLLUTANT DISCHARGE ELIMINATION SYSTEM
In compliance with the provisions of the Clean Water Act, as amended
(33 U.S.C. 1251 et. seq; the "Act"),
Farmland Industries
P. 0. Box 441
Mulberry, Florida 33860
is authorized to discharge from a facility located at
about 27° 27' 54" - Latitude f-
81° 53 06 - Longitude •
Hardee County, Florida j
to receiving waters named
DSN 001 - Hickory Creek
DSM 002 - Oak Creek
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 pages(s), Part II page(s)
and Part III 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
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A. EFFLUENT LIMITATIONS AND MONITORING REQUIREMENTS
During the period beginning on the effective date of this permit and lasting
the permittee is authorized to discharge from outfall(s) serial number(s) 001 Clearwater
Such discharges shall be limited and monitored by the permittee as specified below:
Effluent Characteristic Discharge Limitations
through the term of this permit,
Pond to Hickory Creek.
Flow-m3/Day (MGD)
Total Suspended Solids
Biochemical Oxygen
Demand (5-day)
Specific Conductance
(mhos/cm @
Radium*
kg/day (Ibs/day)
Daily Avg Daily Max
1.24 ~
Other Units (Specify)
Daily Avg Daily Max
^^
30 mg/1
2 mg/1
550
__M
60 mg/1
3 mg/1
1100
__
Continuous
I/week
I/week
I/week
I/week
Monitoring Requirements
Measurement Sample
Frequency Type
(during discharge)
Recorder
24-hr, composite
24-hr, composite
24-hr, composite
24-hr, composite
*Ccrribined Radium 226 & 228
The pH shall not be less than 6.0 standard units nor greater than 8.5 standard units and shall be monitored
onceAreek during discharge with a grab sample.
There shall be no discharge of floating solids or visible foam in other than trace amounts.
Samples taken in compliance with the monitoring requirements specified above shall he taken at the following h/rati
nearest accessible point after final treatment but prior to actual discharge or mixing with
the receiving waters.
3 CO
-ID
pj
TO
>
3D
Ln
-------
A. EFFLUENT LIMITATIONS AND MONITORING REQUIREMENTS
During the period beginning on the effective date of this permit and lasting through the term of this permit,
the permittee is authorized to discharge from outfall(s) serial number(s) 002 Reclammation Area to Oak Creek
Such discharges shall be limited and monitored by the permittee as specified below:
Effluent Characteristic
Daily Avg
2.51
Discharge Limitations Monitoring Requirements
kg/diy (Ibs/day) OlKeir Units (Specify)
Measurement Sample
Daily Max Daily Avg Daily Max Frequency Type
(during discharge)
—
30 mg/1
2 mg/1
550
spci/1
—
60 mg/1
3 mg/1
1100
lOpci/1
Continous
I/week
I/week
I/week
I/month
Recorder
24-hr, composite
24-hr, composite
24-hr. composite
24-hr, composite
Flow-m3/Day (MGD)
Total Suspended
Solids
Biochemical Oxygen
Demand (BODs)(5-day)
Specific Conductance
(mhos/cm @ 25OC)
Radium
*Combined Radium 226 & 228
The pH shall not be less than 6.0 standard units nor greater than 8.5 standard units and shall be monitored
once/Week during discharge with a grab sample.
There shall be no discharge of floating solids or visible foam in other than trace amounts.
•u
Samples taken in compliance with the monitoring requirements specified above shall he taken nt the following loi-.»tion(s): ^
nearest accessible point after final treatment but prior to actual discharge or mixing with gi
the receiving waters. 3
to
01
-------
The flow in Hickory Creek must be at least 1.8 times the discharge flow to the creek.
The flow in Oak Creek must be at least 1.6 times the discharge flow to the creek.
Any overflow from facilities designed, 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 effluent limitation or the pH limitations listed on the preceding page.
Monitoring and reporting shall be required for all the parameters including TSS and pH.
The effluent limits and any additional requirements specified in the attached 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.
2. DEFINITIONS
The term "10-year, 24-hour precipitation event" shall mean the maximum 24-hour precipitation
event with a probable re-occurrence interval of once in 10 years. This information is available
in "Weather Bureau Technical Paper No. 40, May 1961 and may be obtained from the Environmental
Data Service, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, U.S. Department of Commerce.
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PARTI
1-3
Pet mil NO. FL0037195
B. SCHEDULE OF COMPLIANCE
1. The permittee shall achieve compliance with the effluent limitation* specified for
discharges in accordance with the following schedule:
a. Permittee shall comply with the effluent limitations by
the effective date of the permit.
b. This permit shall be modified* or alternatively, revoked
and reissued, to comply with any applicable effluent
standard or limitation Issued or approved under sections
301 (b) (2) (C). (D), (P). and(F).304(b)(2). and 307 (a) (2) of the
Clean Water Act, if the effluent standard or limitation
•o issued or approved:
(1) Contains different conditions or is
otherwise more stringent than any
effluent limitation in the permit; or
(2) Controls any pollutant not Halted in the permit.
The permit as modified or reissued under this paragraph
•hall also contain any other requirements of the Act
then applicable.
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
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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 vill result in new, different, or increased
discharges of pollutants must be reported by submission of a new
NPDES application or, if such changes will not violate the effluent
limitations specified in this permit, by notice to the permit issuing
authority of such changes. Following such notice, the permit may be
modified to specify and limit any pollutants not previously limited.
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 be reported as described in Condition 3b.
b. If for any reason, the permittee does not comply with or vill be
unable to comply with any discharge limitation specified in the
permit, the permittee shall 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 causa 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.
Facilities Operation
All waste collection and treatment facilities shall be operated in
a manner 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
procedure s); and
b. Any maintenance of facilities, which might necessitate unavoidable
interruption of operation and degradation of effluent quality,
•hall 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
•hall control production and all discharges upon reduction, loss,
or failure of the treatment facility until the facility is
restored or an alternative method cf 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
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P-Tt 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 noncomplying discharge.
6. Bypassing
"Bypassing" means the intentional diversion of untreated or partially
treated wastes to waters of the United States from any portion of 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 5 days. Where the necessity of a bypass is known (or should
be known) in advance, prior notification shall be submitted to
the Permit Issuing Authority for approval at least 10 days
beforehand, if possible. All written notifications shall contain
information as required in Part II (A)(3)(b); and
d. The bypass is allowed under conditions determined to be necessary
by the Permit Issuing Authority to minimize any adverse effects.
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.
Removed Substances
Solids, sludges, filter backwash, or other pollutants removed in
the course of treatment or control of wastevaters shall be disposed
of in a manner such as to prevent any pollutant from such materials
from entering waters of the United States.
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Part II
Page I1-4
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. Rave 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 nay 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
nay be required of the permittee.
5. Toxic Pollutants
•. 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. HONITORING 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 (quarter if
monitoring frequency is quarterly) shall be summarized for each
month (quarter) 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):
Comoliance Branch 'FL I)e'Pt' of En\ri.rcnmental Regulation
Environmental Protection Agency Division of Envirxxrmental Programs
Region IV
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Part II
Page II-9
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 ia 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
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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 "Average1
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. Crab Sample: A "grab sample" 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.
b. 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 (1).
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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 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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National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) Requirements
The below listed requirements, conditions and limitations were
recommended in the Farmland Industries Phosphate Mine site
specific Environmental Impact Statement, and are hereby
incorporated into National Pollutant Discharge Elimination
System Permit No. FL0037915 in accordance with 40 CFR
122.62(d)(9).
1. Farmland shall exclude the utilization of any conventional
aboveground slime-disposal areas with the exception of
Clay Settling areas I and II described in the EIS.
Farmland's waste disposal and reclamation plan shall
employ a sand-clay mix process as described in the EIS.
Only Settling Area II shall remain active for the life of
the mine.
2. Farmland shall perform the dragline mining operation in a
fashion that increases the casting distance of the
overburden, causing the overburden to be piled higher and
thereby increasing by approximately 10 percent the below
ground volume available for waste disposal and lowering
the above ground profile of Settling Area II by
approximately four feet.
3. Farmland shall meet the requirements of its Southwest
Florida Water Management District (SWFWMD) Consumptive Use
Permit.
4. Farmland shall provide storage that allows recirculation
of water recovered from slimes. The water circulation
system and storage capacity shall be as described in the
EIS for Farmland's proposed project.
5. During the dragline mining activity, Farmland shall employ
the technique of leach zone management by toe spoiling,
i.e., overburden from near the interface with the matrix
(the leach zone, where radioactivity in the overburden is
concentrated) shall be placed at the toe of the spoil pile
and covered with overburden from upper strata.
6. Farmland shall meet county and state reclamation
requirements.
7. Farmland shall preserve from mining, or any other
disturbance, the areas proposed for preservation in
Farmland's proposed action in the EIS. These areas are
depicted in the attached map, Figure 1. Specifically, the
total preserved acreage of 2530 acres shall include a
minimum of 510 acres of forested uplands, 885 acres of
freshwater swamp, 107 acres of freshwater marsh, and 354
acres of pine flatwoods/palmetto range, all in the
locations depicted in Figure 1.
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8. Farmland shall increase the acreage reclaimed as forest
habitat and provide corridors for wildlife movement
between reclaimed and preserved areas by planting
additional areas as depicted in Figure 2, attached.
9. Farmland shall incorporate into its reclamation plan a
littoral zone at the downstream extent of the proposed
reclaimed open lake in the Hickory Creek channel. This
littoral zone shall be at least 500 feet wide and at a
depth suitable for emergent vegetation, providing for the
establishment of 7-10 acres of marsh community.
10. Before beginning any land-disturbing activities, Farmland
shall develop a program whereby indigo snakes encountered
in the work area are captured for relocation to other
areas of suitable habitat in the site region. This
program shall include informing Farmland workers of the
importance of the indigo snake, familiarizing them with
its appearance and instructing them as to its
preservation. In addition, the gopher tortoise population
shall be protected to the extent possible in the site
area. Farmland shall coordinate its recovery and
relocation efforts with the Florida Endangered Species
Coordinator, and shall maintain a record of the program to
be submitted to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
11. Farmland shall comply with the categorization of wetlands
present on the mine property as set forth in the EIS and
illustrated in Figure 3, attached. In summary, within
Category 1 wetlands. Farmland shall not mine, shall limit
activities to those essential to and unavoidable for the
mining operation, and shall otherwise take all reasonable
measures to preserve all Category 1 wetlands.
Additionally, Farmland shall restore the total acreage of
Category 2 wetlands disturbed by mining. Specifically,
the acreage to be restored as freshwater marsh or swamp
according to Farmland's proposed action in the EIS shall
be increased by at least 116 acres (from 398 acres to a
minimum of 514 acres). This shall be done by differential
grading and settling of sand-clay mix areas in addition to
that already proposed by Farmland in the EIS.
12. During the mining of the unpreserved portion of Hickory
Creek, the flow from this area shall be diverted around
the active mine area into the lower preserved section of
Hickory Creek (rather than to Troublesome Creek).
13. Mining in the vicinity of lower Hickory Creek shall be
scheduled such that open mine pits exist adjacent to only
one side of the preserved portion of the creek at a given
time.
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14. Farmland shall monitor the water quality of the Surficial
Aquifer at the location identified on the attached map.
Figure 3. The following parameters shall be monitored on
a quarterly basis for the life of the mine: pH, specific
conductance, sulfates, fluoride, and ammonia. A written
report summarizing the data shall be submmitted once a
year to EPA.
15. Unless specified otherwise by a preceding condition in
this permit. Farmland shall carry out its mining project
in complete accordance with the applicant's proposed
action described and evaluated in the Farmland EIS,
including the employment of all mitigating measures
presented as part of the proposed action. However, this
shall not preclude the imposition of any additional or
more stringent conditions which may be required by any
local or state regulatory agency or governmental entity.
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----- PROTERTY BOUNDARY
OUT PARCEL (NOT FARMLAND PROPERTY)
FRESHWATER SWAMP
FIGURE I EXISTING LAND USE OF AREAS TO BE PRESERVED ON
THE FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC. MINE SITE, HARDEE
COUNTY, FLORIDA.
FRESHWATER MARSH
PINE FLATWOODS PALMETTO RANGE
UPLAND FOREST
i IMPROVED PASTURE
v^vl CITRUS
• OTHER AGRJCULTURf
2,000 4,000
SCALE IN FEET
SOURCE: FARMLAND INDUSTRIES. INC., HARDEE COUNTY MASTER PLAN. JUNE 1979
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FIGURE 2 PROPOSED AND ADDITIONAL REFORESTATION PLANTINGS
ON THE FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC. MINE SITE
HARDEE COUNTY, FLORIDA.
Proposed Reforestation Areas
Additional Reforestation Areas
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LEGEND
symbol
meaning Category 1 Category 2 Category 2 Category 3 Preserved
Wetl^-^ds Wetlands Wetlands Wetlands Area
Disturbed Undisturbed
FIGURE 3 WETLAND CATEGORIZATION AND SURFICIAL AQUIFER
MONITORING LOCATION, FARMLAND INDUSTRIES, INC.
SITE, HARDEE COUNTY, FLORIDA.
SOURCE: WOODWARD-CLYDE CONSULTANTS (1980)
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