Current through Register Vol. 54, No. 41, October 12, 2024
Section 209a.10 - Auger mining(a) The following provisions of 30 CFR Part 77 , Subpart P (relating to auger mining) are incorporated by reference:(1) Section 77.1500 (relating to auger mining; planning).(2) Section 77.1501 (relating to auger mining; inspections).(3) Section 77.1503 (relating to augering equipment; overhead protection).(4) Section 77.1504 (relating to auger equipment; operation).(b) At a minimum, a highwall proposed for auger mining of bituminous coal shall be benched at the base of each overlying coal seam. In addition, if the height of the highwall, either between two coal seams or to the surface if there is no overlying coal seam, exceeds 60 feet, the highwall shall be benched at no more than 50 feet above the bottom coal seam. Additional benches may be required to ensure the stability of the highwall. The Department may authorize alternative bench locations if the operator demonstrates that the alternative locations are at least as effective at ensuring the highwall stability as otherwise required by this section. In making this demonstration the operator, at a minimum, shall take into account geologic, seasonal and weather conditions; presence of groundwater and other factors that may affect the stability of the highwall.(c) For auger mining in the anthracite coal fields, if the height of the overburden above the auger area exceeds 60 feet, the overburden shall be benched at no more than 50 feet above the coal seam being augered. Additional benches may be required to ensure the stability of the overburden above the auger area. The Department may authorize alternative bench locations if the operator demonstrates that the alternative locations are at least as effective at ensuring the stability as otherwise required by this section. In making this demonstration the operator, at a minimum, shall take into account geologic, seasonal and weather conditions; presence of groundwater, and other factors that may affect the stability of the overburden above the coal seam being augered.