LAC 43:XV.5319. Hydrologic Balance: General Requirements

A. Surface mining activities shall be planned and conducted to minimize disturbance of the hydrologic balance within the permit and adjacent areas and to prevent material damage to the hydrologic balance outside the permit area. B. Changes in water quality and quantity, in the depth to ground water, and in the location of surface-water drainage channels shall be minimized so that the approved post-mining land use of the permit area is not adversely affected. C. In no case shall federal and state water quality statutes, regulations, standards or effluent limitations be violated. D. Operations shall be conducted to minimize water pollution and, where necessary, treatment methods shall be used to control water pollution. 1. Each person who conducts surface mining activities shall emphasize mining and reclamation practices that prevent or minimize water pollution. Changes in flow of drainage shall be used in preference to the use of water treatment facilities. 2. Acceptable practices to control and minimize water pollution include, but are not limited to: a. stabilizing disturbed areas through land shaping; b. diverting runoff; c. achieving quickly germinating and growing stands of temporary vegetation; d. regulating channel velocity of water; e. lining drainage channels with rock or vegetation; f. mulching; and g. selectively placing waste materials in backfill areas. 3. If the practices listed at §5319.D.2 are not adequate to meet the requirements of this Chapter, the person who conducts surface mining activities shall operate and maintain the necessary water treatment facilities for as long as treatment is required under this Chapter.