Md. Code Regs. 26.20.27.03

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 19, September 20, 2024

Section 26.20.27.03 - Water Control Measures for Coal Mine Waste Disposal Facilities

A. If the disposal area contains springs, natural or man-made water courses, or wet weather seeps, the design shall include diversions and underdrains as necessary to control erosion, prevent water infiltration into the disposal facility, and ensure stability. If a subdrainage system is used, it shall:

(1) Intercept all ground water sources;

(2) Be protected by an adequate filter;

(3) Be covered so as to protect against the entrance of surface water or leachate from the coal mine waste;

(4) Consist of durable rock or pipe;

(5) Be designed and constructed using current, prudent engineering practices and meet design criteria established by the Bureau and the requirements of 30 CFR § 77.214 and 77.215; and

(6) Be designed to carry the anticipated seepage of water due to rainfall away from the fill and from seeps and springs in the foundation of the disposal area and be protected from piping and contamination by an adequate filter.

B. Rock underdrains shall be constructed of durable, nonacid, non-toxic-forming rock, for example, natural sand and gravel, sandstone, limestone, or other durable rock that does not slake in water or degrade to soil material, and which is free of coal, clay, or other nondurable material. Perforated pipe underdrains shall be corrosion resistant and shall have characteristics consistent with the long-term life of the fill.

C. Uncontrolled surface drainage may not be diverted over the outslope of refuse piles. All surface drainage runoff from the area above refuse piles and runoff from the surface of refuse piles shall be diverted into stabilized diversion channels designed to safely pass the runoff from a 100-year, 6-hour precipitation event.

D. Slope protection shall be provided to minimize surface erosion at the site. All disturbed areas, including diversion ditches that are not riprapped, shall be vegetated upon completion of construction.

E. All water discharged from a refuse pile shall comply with the effluent limitations of the Regulatory Program.

Md. Code Regs. 26.20.27.03

Regulations .03 were previously codified as COMAR 08.13.09.33 a A_K, respectively. Recodification occurred in April, 1993. For a history of these regulations before April, 1993, see "Administrative History of COMAR 08.13.09 before April, 1993" which follows COMAR 26.20.01.