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HomeMy WebLinkAboutDRC-2008-002561 - 0901a06880aea7b8I I I T t T I I I I I I I t I I I I T DENEOJ)/I Denison mincs (USA) Corp. 105(l lnh $reet, Suitc 950 Dcnwr, CO 80265 USA Tel : 303 62&7798 Far : 3(I3 38$4125 www.dcnisonmincs.com frt. *r[ M!NES December 1 1, 2008 VIA PDF AND FEDERAL EXPRESS Mr. Dane L. Finerlrock Execuiive Secretary Utah Radiation Control Board State of Utah Department ol Environmental Quality 168 North 1950 West Salt Lake City, UT 84114-4850 Re: White Mesa Uranium Mill; Radioactive Material License No. UT19OO479 andGroundwater Quality Discharge Permit No. UGW37OOO4 - Amendment RequestsRelating to Freeboard Limit Calculations lor Tailings Cells Dear Mr. Finerfrock: Reference is made to the letter dated October 9, 2008 from Denison Mines (USA) Corp.("Denison") to the Executive Secretary pursuant to which Denison requesteci an'interihvariance from an existing condition of its State of Utah Radioactive Maierials License No. UT1900479 (the ".Lice.nse") and ancillary documents relating to lreeboard limits lor Tailings Cells3 and 4A at the White Mesa uranium mill (the "Mill'), and to your conditional approv6l letterdated November 20, 2008. ln your conditional a.pproval.letter, y.oy-applgved an interim variance establishing a temporaryfreeboard limit for tailings Cells 3 and 4A, subject to the following conditions: . Denison will submit an application to amend the License with revised freeboard calculation methods for Cell 3 and Cell 4A, on or before December 5, 2OOB (this date was extended to December 1 1, 2008);. r|te application will include all needed corresponding revisions to the Cell 4A BATMonitoring, Operations and Maintenance Plan ("BAT Plan") and the White Mesa MillTailingq Ma.nag.e.ment_.System and Discharge Minimiz'ation Technology (DMT) Monitoring Plan ("DMT Plan");. Th9 application will.clarify and fully describe the malhematical basis lor reducing pool surface areas based on the future dry tons ol tailings projected to be processed; i.e., tneconversion of tonnage volume (three dimension-al) to surface arda consumed (two dimensional); and. The application will submit the proposed freeboard calculations for Cell 3 and 44 usingthe current tailings output projection and poolareas as applicable. 6"n"p' g ('l c0\r I I I T I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I Denison hereby applies for an amendment to the License, and lor ancillary amendments to theMill's State of Utah Groundwaler Discharge Permit No. UGW370004 (the'1GWDP"), to the BAT Plan and to the DMT Plan, as described below. 1. Background lnformation The tailings.impoundment system al the Mill is comprised ol lour cells. Tailings Cell 1, which is q1_evap_or3.tion p^ond with a surlace area ol 52.9 acres, was completed and put into use in June1981. Tailings Cell 2 was c_ompleted and put into use in May 1980, and is currently fult andcovered with interim cover. Tailings Cell 3 was completed and put into use in Septeniber 1982 and is currently active, although it is getting close to becoming full. Tailings Cell 4A, which has a surface area ol 40 acres, was constructed and put into useln 1989 andwas used lor a shortperiod of time to receive tailings solulions until Mill operations ceased in 1g91, due to low commodity prices. Cell 4A fell into disrepair after lhat time. All of the tailings solutions andresidual crystals were removed from the Cell in 2006. Cell 4A has since been ie-lined and was authorized by the Executive Secretary lor re-use on September lT,20OB. Freeboard limits for the tailings cells are set out in the License, the GWDP, the BAT Plan and DMT Plan, as follows: (a) License License condition 10.3 prwides that lhe lreeboard limit lor Cell 1 shall be set annually in accordance with the procedures set out in Appendix E of the previously approved NRC licehseapplication, including the January 10, 1990 Drainage Reporl. Thtise procedures set the freeboard limit for Cell 1 al 5615.4 leet above mean sea level ("lmsl"). The freeboard limil iscurrently being set at that level, and there are no issues associated with that calculation. Thelicense condition also states that the freeboard limit for Cell 3 shall be recalculated annually in accordance with theprocedugs_99t_in the October 13, 1999 revision to the Drainage Repbrt.As discussed in our October 9, 2008 letter to you, these procedures no longer makdsensb forCell 3, and an interim variance was granted by you, ai discussed abovd. The procedures currently required by License conditioi 10.3 loi ialculating tne teeboaiO-iimit for'Cell 3 aredescribed in Section 2 below. License condition 10.3 does not contain a lreeboard limit for Cell 2, since that cell is lull and covered with interim cover, nor does it contain a freeboard limit for Cell 44. Previous versionsof License condition 10.3 did prescribe a freeboard limit calculation for Cell 44. However,reference to Cell 4A was taken out ol License condition 10.3 when Cell 4A was taken out oiservice and was not added back in when Cell 4A was recently authorized to be put back into use. -f..8..t_q.f,r"ry ]9, 1990 Drainage Report uses the Local 6-hour Probable Maximum Precipitation ff-Uq") e.ve!t-.lgrcalculating the lreeboard requirement for each of the Mill's tailings celis. The PMP for the Millsite is 10 inches. The January 10, 1990 Drainage Report establisled the PMPFlood Volume Requirement lo be handled in Cell 1 as 103 acreleet, in Cells 2 and O as 123.4acre feet, and lor Cell 44 as 36 acre feet. The freeboard limit for Cell 1 ol 5,615.4 fmsl has been set to handle all of the PMP flood volume requirements associated with that cell. SinceCell 2 is full, all ol the volume requirement lor Cells 2 and 3 must be handled in Cell 3 or other ?cltyg tailings cells. The Drainage leport also established a wave run up factor for Cell 1 ol0.90 feet, Cell 3 ot O.79leet and for Cell 4A o10.77 leet. DENISOJ)/I xlrNEs I I I T I I I I t I I I t I I I I I I (b) GWDP Parts 1.D.2 and 1.D.6(d) of the GWDP provide that under no circumslances shall the freeboard in Cells 1 ,2,3 or 4A be less than three feet, as measured from the top ol the llexible membrane liner ("FML"). (c) BAT Plan The lreeboard calculations lor Cell 3 lor the period October 1, 2006 to September 30, 2007 and for Cell 4Alor the period July 1, 2008 to June 30, 2009 are attached to the BAT Plan. (d) DMT Plan Section 6.3 ol the DMT Plan summarizes the steps to be taken to calculate the lreeboard limits for Cell 3 as required under License condition 10.3 and sets oul the lreeboard limit calculation for Cell 4A that was in eflect prior to the approvalof the interim variance discussed above. For Cell 4A, the January 10, 1990 Drainage Report sets the flood volume from the PMP event over the Cell 4A area at 36 acre feet, and the wave run up lactor at 0.77 feet. However, because the Cell 4A design includes a concrete spillway between Cell 3 and Cell 4A, with the invert elevation 4 leet below the top of the Cell 3 FML, should Cell 3 receive the lull PMP volume ol 123.4 acre feet lor Cells 2 and 3, some of that volume would flow through the spillway into Cell 4A. The volume that will flow over into Cell 44 will depend on the pool area in Cell 3 and can be calculated as the pool area in Cell 3 multiplied by 3.22 feet (i.e., the elevation difference between the top of the FML in Cell 3 and the top of the spillway between Cell 3 and Cell 4A of 4 feet, less the wave run up lactor of 0.78 feet). Based on the calculations for the October 1, 2006 to September 30, 2007 period, this volume was calculated to be 61.6 acre leet. This means that Cell 44 had to accommodate a total PMP volume of 97.6 acre feet (36 acre feet from Cell 4A and 61.6 acre feet lrom Cell 3 overflow). Since Cell 4A has its total 4O-acre area as a pool area, the total required lreeboard lor Cell 4A was calculated in the DMT Plan to be 3.2 feet (i.e., the quotient of 97.6 acre feet divided by 40 acres, which equals 2.44 feet, plus the wave run up lactor of 0.77 feet). 2. Current Manner ol Calculating Freeboard for Cell 3 Under the License The procedures prescribed under License condition 10.3 require that the pool area in Cell 3 be calculated at the beginning ol each annual period (historically, October 1 to September 30). An adjustment is then made to reduce the pool area during the period as a result of the expected deposit of tailings solids into the cellduring the period. The PMP Flood Volume Requirement of 123.4 acre leet is then divided by the reduced pool area in Cell 3 to determine the PMP freeboard level for that cell. The wave run up factor ol 0.78leet is then added to determine the total required lreeboard lor Cell 3. Specifically, the procedure, as presented in the January 10, 1990 submittal to NRC, for re- calculation ol the lreeboard limit is stated in the following excerpt lrom that submittal: Procedure Freeboard Limits tor Cell 3 The following procedure is intended to be used to determine the maximum operating pool level in Cell 3. This procedure is necessary because tailings sand deposition occupies some of the volume required to hold a PMP event. A summary of the procedure is as follows: oEN'soJ)// xltNES 4 I I I T I I I I T I I I I I I T I I I 1. From a suruey of the Cell, the pool surface area will be determined.2. From this area 17.3 acres will be subtracted. The wave run up requirement is determined. The maximum operating pool level is then calculated from the dike crest elevation minus the flood volume requirements divided by the pool area minus the wave run up requirements. The basis of the procedure will now be discussed. During the period of March 1988 through October 1989, 465,859 dry tons of tailings were added to Cell 3. From topographic maps generated from aerial photographs, . . . the pool surtace area of Cell 3 was reduced by 11.9 acres. Totaldry tons divided by change in pool area extent yields the number of tons required to reduce pool size by one acre, or 39,146 dry tons per acre. The maximum amount of tailings that could be discharged in a one-year time pgriod is 2.,_000 dry tons per day for 365 days with 93% mill availability, or 678,900 dry tons. The maximum tonnage divided by the number of tons required to reducepool size by one acre yields the maximum expected pool area reduction, or 17.3acres. This number is then subtracted trom lhe pool surtace area determined by suruey or topographic means, yielding the reduced pool area. The flood volume requirements ary 123.4 acre-feet as per section fof the January 10,.1990 Drainage Reportl titledlCelll!fiypggfu!. The flood volume divided by the reduced pool area is the freeboard required for the tlood. Wind-wave run-bp is calculated as pg! th9 section [ot the January 10, 1990 Drainage Report] titled Wave.Run-up. The PMP lreeboard requirement plus the wave run-up requiiementyield the total required freeboard. Note that this procedure overestimates the required freeboard and therefore is a conseruative method. The overestimation is a result of not taking credit for thevolume available for flood storage above the sand surtace. ln other words, this method assumes that the sand at the edges of the pool rises vertically to the top otthe cell. The procedure also does not take credit for soil retention /osses considered in the three cases used to develop the treeboard vs pool surface area graph. The following example is calculated using the above procedure. On October 22, 1989 the pool area in Cell3, determined by aerial photography was 46.2 acres- 46.2-17.3 = 28.9 acres This is the area in which the storm volume must be stored. The storm volume was determined to be 123.4 acre-feet. 123.4 acre-feet / 28.9 acres = 4.3 teet 4.3leet + 0.7 teet = 5.0 feet 5608.0 feet - 5.0 feet = 5603.0 feet msl This procedure willbe used yearly if the milloperates on a continuous basis. lf the mill is shut down, then this procedure will be used and a submittat made to the NRC when 600,000 dry tons have been placed in Cell3. OENISOJ)//fiilNE5 I I I I I T I I I I I I t I I t I I I By a letter dated October 13, 1999 to the United States Nuclear Flegulatory Commission ("NRC"), Denison (then named lnternational Uranium (USA) Corporation) applied for a modilication to this procedure to take into consideration periods when the Mill is not operating at full capacity, as assumed in the foregoing procedure. Specifically, Denison requested that the License be amended so thal, instead of automatically subtracting 17.3 acres lrom the pool area at the beginning ol the period (which is based on the maximum possible production of 678,900 dry tons lor the upcoming year divided by a pool reduction lactor ol 39,146 dry tons per acre), an estimate ol lhe next 12 months' mill throughput would be made. The estimate would be multiplied by a lactor of safety of 150%, and the number ol acres lo be subtracted from the pool area at the beginning ol the period would be this estimated throughput (multiplied by 1.5) divided by the pool reduction factor o139,146 dry tons per acre. The eflect ol the modification to the procedure was to more realistically account for the addition of tailings sand in the year ahead, based on the actual operating projection lor the Mill. That request for amendment was granted by NRC and lorms the current basis lor calculating lreeboard lor Celi3 under License condition 10.3. 3. Problems with Existing Requirements There are several problems with the existing requirements. First, as a tailings cell gets filled with tailings solids, the pool area gets smaller, and, as a tailings cell gets closer to being filled to its capacity with solids the lreeboard can be limited dramatically. However, in the case ol Cell 3, where there is a spillway to Cell 4A, so long as enough lreeboard is retained in Cell 4A for the PMP volume for all ol Cells 2, 3 and 44, there is no need to set a lreeboard limit for Cell 3. For example, using the calculations for the period October 1, 2008 to September 30, 2009, based on planned production at the Mill, the pool area in Cell 3 would be expected to decrease such that the required freeboard limit in Cell 3 for the period would be more than 15 feet below the FML, which presents an almost unworkable situation because ol the small pool area. This places an unnecessarily restrictive freeboard limit on Cell 3 when there is ample room in Cell 4A to allow for the entire PMP volume for all three cells. Second, a freeboard calculation must be developed lor Cell 4A, and License condition 10.3 needs to be amended to include relerence to Cell 4A. Third, the manner ol determining the reduction in pool area lor Cell 3 was developed specifically for Cell 3 and does not apply to Cell 4A. Therefore, a new melhod for estimating the reduction in pool area for Cell 4A must be developed and implemented. 4. Proposed Manner of Addressing the Existing Problems With the Freeboard Calculations The primary objective is to ensure that there is enough lreeboard in the tailings system as a whole to capture the PMP event applicable to the tailings cells as a whole. This was calculated in the 1990 Drainage Report as 123.4 acre feet for Cells 2 and 3 and 36 acre leet for Cell 4A, for a total ol 159.4 acre feet for the three cells. The wave run up lactors lor Cells 3 and 4A were also calculated in the 1990 Drainage Report to be 0.78 andO.77leet, respectively. There is no reason to question these PMP event and wave run up numbers, so they are accepted here. The PMP Flood Volume Requirement lor Cell 1 was also calculated in the 1990 Drainage Report as 103 acre feet, which will continue to be handled by setting the freeboard limit lor Cell 1 at 5615.4 fmsl, and can be ignored for the remainder ol the analysis. oENrsoJ)// ,vltNEs I T I I I t I I I I I I t I I I I T I Because there is a spillway between Cells 3 and 4A, there is no need for Cell 3 to be able to accommodate all of the PMP event lor Cells 2 and 3 (123.4 acre feet) il adequate capacity is available in Cell 4A to handle its own PMP requirements (36 acre feet) plus whatever amount of the Cell 2 and 3 PMP requirements cannot be handled by Cell 3 alone. As a result, Denison proposes the lollowing: (a) the freeboard limit lor Cell 1 will continue to be set at 5,615.4 fmsl, which is the level currently required by the application of License condition 10.3, and will allow Cetl 1 to capture all ol the PMP volume associated with Cell 1; (b) the freeboard limit lor Cell 2 will continue to be inapplicable, since Cell 2 is filled with solids; all of the PMP volume associated with Cell 2 will continue to be attributed to Cell 3 anct/or Cell44 (or any luture tailings cells); (c) the freeboard limil lor Cell 3 will be inapplicable, since Cell 3 is close to being filled with solids, and all ol the PMP flood volume associated with Cells 2 and 3 wil! be attributed to Cell 44 (ancUor any fulure tailings cells); and (d) the freeboard limit for Cell 44 will be set assuming that the total PMP volume for Cells2, 3 and 4A ol 159.4 acre leet will be accommodated in Cell 44. The manner ol calculating the lreeboard limit for Cell 4A is discussed in detail in Section 5 below. 5. Manner ol Calculating Freeboard Limit lor Cetl 4A 5.1. General Discussion of Methodoloov The procedure for calculating freeboard limits for Cell 4A is based on the premise that on average, once the cell has received enough tailings solids to form a beach area, the pool surface area of the cellwill be expected to decrease in direct proportion to the decrease in total available space in the cell lor tailings solids storage. lntuitively, this makes sense. Ultimately, the tailings cell can be filled to the top of its FML with tailings solids before the cell is closed. ln that case, there will be no ability for the cell lo store the PMP flood event, and another cell will be required for that purpose. On the other hand, when there are no beaches, the total pool area is available to hold the PMP flood event, so it isjust a question ol setting the lreeboard limit (i.e., pool elevation) at a levelthat will allow the total PMP flood event to be stored within the cell. A linear relationship between these two extremes will modelthe average reduction in poolarea. This is easy to visualize in the simple case where a tailings cell is a three-dimensional rectangle, and where tailings solids are deposiled into the cell in perfectly rectangular vertical three- dimensional blocks. A block of tailings that uses up 25"/" ol the available storage area lor solidswill displace exactly 25"/" ol the pool surface area. As a result, the pool suiiace will have to decrease in elevation enough to allow for lhis reduction in pool area. ln reality, tailings solids are not deposited into tailings cells in perfectly rectangular three- dimensional vertical blocks. ln facl, the tailings solids will be more likely to be deposited, atleast initially, in a triangular or cone-like manner, that would result typically in less pool area being displaced per ton ol tailings at the outset than in the case of the vertical blocks, as the tailings solids spread a bit over the bottom ol the cell. As a result, at the outset, the assumedlinear reduction in pool area from the disposition ol tailings solids into the cell will overstate the actual reduction in pool area. However, eventually, we know that this will have to change, andas the tailings cell becomes more lilled up, the percentage reduction in pool area -will be 6 DENISOJ)// mtNEs I T I t I I I I I I I I I I I I I T I somewhat greater than the percentage reduction in solids storage space in the cell, as tailings solids build up in the bottom of the pool area, thereby reducing the space available above those solids lor the disposition ol lurther solids. However, the inilial overstatement ol the reduction in pool area will oflset exactly the subsequent understatement ol the reduction in pool area. And, since the pool area is being reduced by more than ls necessary at the outset, the cumulative effect is that the pool area will always be reduced enough to allow lor the lull PMP tlood event to be stored within the cell. Figure 1 shows this relationship graphically. Figure 1 shows the simple case where half ol the available solids storage area of the Cell is lilled with new tailings solids. lt can be seen that thepool surface area is reduced by half. The Figure also shows how the lreeboard limit (pool surface elevation) is then reduced to allow lor the lull PMP llood event to still be stored within the cell. lt can also be seen that this is conservative, because, to lhe extent that the tailings solids beach slopes towards the pool, there is added PMP llood storage capacity on the sloping beach area. 5.2. Solids Disposal Capacitv of Cell 44 As stated in Part 1.D.5(c) ol the GWDP, the lloor and inside slopes of Cell 44 encompass about 40 acres and have a maximum capacity of 1.6 million cubic yards ol tailings material storage (as measured below the 3-foot lreeboard required under the GWDP). Because tailings solids will ultimately fill the tailings cell up to the top ol the FML (assuming the PMP llood volume attributed to the cell is handled by another tailings cell), an additional 193,600 cubic yards (40 acres times 4,840 yards per acre times 1 yard) of storage capacity must be added to the 1.6 million cubic yards referred to above, lor a total tailings capacity of 1,793,600 cubic yards. The tailings solids have been determined to have a density ol 86.50 dry lbs per cubic foot ol tailings,or 2,335 lbs per cubic yard (see the Mill's May 2000, Tailings Capacity Evaluation, Section 1, Base Tailings Capacity). As a result, the total amount of tailings solids capacity in Cell 4A is 2,094,000 dry tons. 5.3. Procedure for Calculation ol Freeboard Limit for Cell 44 Denison proposes that the freeboard limit lor Cell 4A be calculated as follows: (a) When the Pool Surface Area is 40 Acres When the pool surface area in Cell 4A is 40 acres (i.e., when there are no beaches), the freeboard limit for Cell 4A will be 5,593.7 fmsl, which is 4.76 leet below the FML (being thequotient of 159.4 acre feet divided by 40 acres, which equals 3.99 feet, plus the wave ruh up factor for Cell 4A of O.77feet, rounded to the nearest one-tenth ol a foot); (b) When the Maximum Elevation of the Beach Area is 5,593 fmslor Less When the maximum elevation of the beach area in Cell 4A is 5593 fmsl or less, then the freeboard limit will be 5,593.7 fmsl, which is the same as in (a) above. This allows for the situation where there may be beaches, but these beaches are at a lower elevation than the freeboard limit eslablished in (a) above, and there is therelore ample freeboard above the beaches to hold the maximum PMP volume. The maximum elevation ol the beach area will be determined by monthly surveys performed by Mill personnel in accordance with the Mill's DMT Plan, which will be revised to include this requirement (see Section 6.1 below). DENISOJ)// mlNEs I I I I I I I I t I I I I I T I I t I (c) When the Maximum Elevation of the Beach Area First Exceeds 5,593lmsl When the maximum elevation ol the beach area in Cell 4A lirst exceeds 5,593 fmsl, then lhe freeboard limit for the remainder ol the ensuing year (period t=0) (until the next November 11) will be calculated when that elevation is first exceeded (the "lnitial Calculation Date"), as follows: The total number of dry tons ol tailings that have historically been deposited into Cell 4A prior to the lnitialCalculation Date ("T6") will be determined; The expected number ol dry tons to be deposited into Cell 4A for the remainder ol the ensuing year (up to the next November 1), based on production estimates lor that period ("&*"), willbe determined; Ao. will be grossed up by a safety factor of 150% to allow lor a potential underestimation of the number ol tons that will be deposited in the cell during the remainder of the ensuing year. This grossed up number can be referred to as the "modeled tonnage" for the period; The total design tailings solid storage capacity ol Cel! 4A will be accepted as 2,094,000 dry tons of tailings; The available remaining space in Cell 4A for solids as at the lnitial Calculation Date will be calculated as 2,094,000 dry tons minus To; The reduction in the pool surface area for the remainder of the ensuing year will be assumed to be directly proportional to the reduction in the available space in Cell 4A for solids. That is, the reduced pool surlace area for period t=0 ('ilPAo"), alter the reduction, will be calcutated to be: (1 - (Ao'x 1.5) I (2,094,000 - To)) x 40 acres - RP& vii) The required lreeboard for Cell 4A for the remainder ol the period t=0 can be calculated in feet to be the wave run up lactor lor Cell 4A of 0.77 leel plus the quotient ol 159.4 acre feet divided by the RPfu. The freeboard limit lor Cell 4A lor the remainder of period t=0 would then be the elevation ol the FML for Cell 44 of 5598.5 fmsl less this required lreeboard amount, rounded to the nearest one-tenth of a foot; andviii) The foregoing calculations will be performed at the lnitial Calculation Date and the resulting freeboard limit will persist untilthe next November 1. An example of this calculation is set out in Appendix A to this application. (d) Annual Freeboard Calculation When the Maximum Elevation of the Beach Area Exceeds 5,593 fmsl On November 1 of each year (the'Annual Calculation Date"), the reduction in pool area lor the ensuing year (referred to as period t) will be calculated by: i) First, calculating the Adjusted Fleduced Pool Area lor the previous period (ARPAI. r) to refle_ct actual tonnages deposited in Cell 4A lor the previous period (period t-1). The RPA,., used lor the previous period was based on expected tonn.ages forperiod t-1, grossed up by a safety factor. The ARPA.-1 is merely the RPA that would have been used for period t-1 had the actual tonnages lor year t-l been known at the outset of period t-'1 and had the RPA been calculated-based on lhe ' We are proposing that the freeboard calculation be revised as of each November l, rather than continue with the calculation being performed as of each October l, because it is more likely that a better estimate of production for the upcoming year will be available at the later date. i) ii) iii) iv) v) vi) DEN'SOJ)//filtNE5 I I I I t I I I I I I I I T ! I I T I ii) actual tonnages for period t-1. This allows lhe freeboard calculations to be corrected each year to take into account actual tonnages deposited in the cell as ol the date of the calculation. The ARPAT-1 Gon be calculated using the following lormula: (1 - A-, / (2,094,000 -T,.,)) x ARPA,.z = ARPAT-I Where:I At-r is the actual number ol dry tons of tailings solids deposited in Cell 4A during period t-l;I Trr is the actual number ol dry tons ol tailings solids historically deposited in Cell 4A prior to the beginning ol period t-1; and. ARPAI.2 is the Adjusted Reduced Pool Area for period t-2. lf period t-2 started at the lnitial Calculation Date, then ARPAI2 is 40 acres; Once the ARPA,.1 lor the previous period (period t-1) has been calculated, the RPA lor the subject period (period t) can be calculated as lollows: (1 - (Ar. x 1.5) I (2,094,OO0 - T,)) x ARPAI-1 - RPAr Where:. A* is the expected number ol dry tons ol tailings to be deposited into Cell 44 lor the ensuing year (period t), based on production estimates for the year (as can be seen from the loregoing formula, this expected number is grossed up by a safety factor of 1.5);. Tt is the actual number of dry tons ol tailings solids historically deposited in Cell 4A prior to the beginning of period t; ando ARPAT-1 is the Adjusted Reduced Pool Area lor period t-1, which is the pool surface area for the previous period (period t-1) that would have applied during that period, had modeled lonnages (i.e., expected tonnages grossed up by the 150% salety factor) equaled actual tonnages for the period; The required lreeboard lor period t can be calculated in leet to be the wave run up lactor for Cell 44 of 0.77 leel plus the quotient ol 159.4 acre leet divided by the FlPAt. The lreeboard limit lor Cell 4A lor period t would then be the elevation ol the FML lor Cell 4A ol 5598.5 fmsl less this required freeboard amount, rounded to the nearest one-tenth of a loot; and The loregoing calculations will be perlormed period t and the resulting freeboard limit Calculation Date for period t+1. at the Annual Calculation Date for will persist until the next Annual iii) iv) An example ol this calculation is set out in Appendix A to this application. (e) When a Spillway is Added to Cell4A that Allows Overflow lnto a New Tailings Cell When a spillway is added between Cell 4A and a new tailings cell (Cell 4B), then, if the freeboard limit lor the new cell is set to cover the entire PMP event lor Cells 2,3, 4A and 48, the freeboard limit for Cell 44 will be inapplicable. 9 DENISOJ)//IltNES I I I I I I I I I I I I t I I t I T T 6. Amendments to BAT Plan and DMT Plan 6.1. Amendments to DMT Plan Two sections of the Mill's DMT Plan require amendment in order to incorporate the amended procedures lor calculating lreeboard limits proposed in Sections 4 and 5 above. These are Sections 3.1 (d), entitled'Tailings Wastewater Pool Elevation Monitoring", and paragraphs (a), (b) and (c) of Section 6.3, entitled "Freeboard Limits." ln addition, corresponding amendments are required to the heading lor Section 3.1, to Section 8.2 and to the Weekly lnspection Form. (a) Section 3.1 (d), Tailings Wastewater Pool Elevation Monitoring Section 3.1 (d) ol the DMT Plan currently requires that weekly surveys of the solution elevations in tailings Cells 1, 3 and 4A and Roberts Pond be made. This Section must be revised to: . Eliminate the need lo survey solution elevations in Cell 3, because the freeboard limit will no longer be applicable to that cell; and. Add the requiremenl to take monthly surveys ol the area of the Cell 4A beach with the highest elevation. (b) Freeboard Limits Paragraphs (a), (b) and (c) ol Section 6.3 of the DMT Plan currently set out the methods for calculating lreeboard limits lor tailings Cells 1, 3 and 4A. These paragraphs must be replaced with the procedures outlined in Sections 4 and 5 above. Paragraph (d) of Section 6.3 currently sets out the freeboard limit for Roberts Pond, which does not need lo be changed. A copy of the DMT Plan marked to indicate these proposed amendments is attached as Appendix B to this application. 6.2. Amendments to BAT Plan Denison is proposing that two Sections of the BAT Plan be amended in connection with this amendment request. These are the Sections entitled "Routine Maintenance and Monitoring: Solution Elevations" and "Cell4A Solution Freeboard Calculation." (a) Routine Maintenance and Monitoring: Solution Elevations This Section ol the BAT Plan merely repeats the weekly solution elevation surveying requirements of the DMT Plan. Denison proposes that this Section ol the BAT Plan be replaced with the following paragraph that cross refers to the applicable requirements ol the DMT Plan: Measurements ol pond solution elevations are to be taken on a weekly basis, and the area ol the tailings beach with the highest elevation in Cell 4A is to be taken on a monthly basis, by use ol the procedures and equipment specified in Section 3.1 (d) ol the White Mesa Mill Tailings Management System and Discharge Minimization Technology (DMT) Monitoring Plan. This will eliminate the potential lor confusion and inconsistency that may result from the application of similar provisions in two different compliance documents. l0 oENrsoJ)//filtNEs I I I I I I I I t I t t t I I t I I I (b) Cell4A Solution Freeboard Calculation This Section ol the BAT Plan must be revised to reflect the revised lreeboard limit procedures proposed by this application. The revised Section will provide a general description ol the procedures, but will refer to the DMT Plan for the actual procedures. As mentioned above, Denison believes that it is not desirable lo have the same or similar procedures repeated in different documents. lt is also no longer necessary to attach a calculation ol the current freeboard calculation lor Cells 3 and 4A to the BAT Plan, so Denison proposes that that attachment to the BAT Plan be eliminated. A copy of the BAT Plan marked to indicate these proposed amendments is attached as Appendix C to this application. 7. Specilic Proposed Revisions to the Wording of License Gondition 10.3 License condition 10.3 currently reads as follows: The Freeboard limit for Cell 1 shall be set annually in accordance with the procedures set out in Section 3.0 to Appendix E ol the previously approved NRC license application, including the January 10, 1990 Drainage Report. The lreeboard limit lor Cell 3 shall be recalculated annually in accordance with the procedures set in the October 13, 1999 revision to the Drainage Report. Said calculations shall be submitted as part of the annual Technical Evaluation Report. Said report shall be submitted lor Executive Secretary approval no later than September 1, of each year. Section 3.0 to Appendix E ol the previously approved NRC license application (i.e., the 1991/1997 license renewal application) referred to in License condition 10.3 was a section ol the Mill's Environmental Protection Manual that was applicable at the time of that license renewal. That Section of the Mill's Environmental Protection Manual is now Section 6.3 of the DMT Plan, which is Section 3.1 ol the Mill's current Environmental Protection Manual. As discussed in Section 6 above, all of the proposed procedures for calculating freeboard limits lor the Mill's tailings, referred to in Sections 4 and 5 above, are set out in a revised Section 6.3 ol the Mill's DMT Plan. Therefore, Denison proposes that License condition 10.3 be revised to read as follows: The Freeboard limit for Cell 1 shall be 5615.4 leet above mean sea level, and the freeboard limit for Cell 44 shall be set annually in accordance with the procedures set out in Section 6.3 of the White Mesa Mill Tailings Management System and Discharge Minimization Technology (DMT) Monitoring Plan, which is included as Section 3.1 of the Mill's Environmental Protection Manual. Said calculations shall be submitted as part of the annual Technical Evaluation Report. Said report shall be submitted lor Executive Secretary approval no later than September 1, of each year. 8. Ancillary Amendments to the Mill's Groundwater Discharge Permit Part 1.D.2 ol the Mill's GWDP states that under no circumstances shall the freeboard for Cells 1, 2 and 3 be less than three leet, as measured from the top ol the FML. However, as discussed above, tailings Cells 2 and 3 are lull or nearly lull and the lreeboard limits for those cells should be inapplicable. ll DENISOJ)//ffltNEs I I t I I I I t T I I t I t I I I I I As a result, Denison is also hereby requesting that Part 1.D.2 ol the Mill's GWDP be amended by changing the third sentence ol that provision to read as follows: "Under no circumstances shallthe freeboard for Cell 1 be less than three (3) feet, as measured lrom the top ol the FML." 9. Freeboard calculations lor Upcoming Year Based on the procedures outlined in Sections 4 and 5 above, the proposed lreeboard calculations lor the Mill's tailings cells at this time are: (a) Cell 1 The freeboard limit for Cell 1 will continue to be set at 5,615.4 fmsl. (b) Cett2 The lreeboard limil lor Cell 2 will be inapplicable, as all of the PMP llood event associated with Cell 2 will be attributed to Ce]] 4A. (c) Cett3 The freeboard limit lor Cell 3 will be inapplicable, as all of the PMP llood event associated with Cell 3 will be attributed to Cell 4A. (d) Cett4A The freeboard limit lor Cell 4A will be 5,593.7 fmsl, as the pool area in Cell 4A is currently at the full 40 acres. !l at any time the maximum elevation of the beach area in Cell 4A exceeds 5,593 fmsl, then the freeboard limit will be revised as contemplated in Section 5.3(c) above. The foregoing freeboard limits will persist until November 1, 2009. As the Mill's tailings cells are already licensed for use, and are subject to existing freeboard requirements under the License which are designed to ensure that the established maximum PMP flood event is retained within the tailings system, and the proposed amendment merely addresses the specific manner of calculating those freeboard requirements, Denison believes that the requested amendment is not a "major amendment" within the meaning of UAC R313- 24-3. As a result, an environmental report as contemplated by that rule lor major amendments is not necessary and is not contained in this application lf you have any questions or require any lurther inlormation, please contact the undersigned. Frydenlund ident Regulatory Alfairs and Counsel cc: Ron F. Hochstein Harold R. Roberts Steven D. Landau David E. Turk t2 OENISOJ)//filtNEs I bI I I I t I Ip I I I I I I I, I I I I Appendix A Example ol Calculations I Assumptions and Factors: o Total PMP volume to be stored in Cell4A - 159.4 acre leeto Wave runup factor lor Cell 4A - 0.77 feetI o Total capaiity ot Cell 4A - 2,094,000 dry tonsI o Elevation of FML of Cell 4A - 5,598.5|ms]o Maximum pool surface area of Cell 4A- 40 acresr " H[T1#,:,:ff]L:rfli::::::;::'iffi",,,, arrs'lexceedssse3 o Expected and actual production is as set lorth in the lollowing table:I I t I I I I I I I t I I I Time Period Expected Tailings Solids Dispositioninto Cell 4A Determined atthe beginningof the period (dry tons)' Expecled Tailings Solids Disposition into Cell 4A at the beginning ol the period, multiplied by 150o/o Salety Factor (dry tons) Actua! Tailings Solids Dispositioninto Cell 4A determined atend of theperiod (dry tons)* March 1, 2009to November 1. 2009 I5U,UUU 225,000 z:z5,uuu NovemDer 1,2009 to November 1, 2010 3OU,OUU I5U,UOU 2t5,OOI) November 1,2010 to November 1, 2011 ZUU,UUU SUU,OUU Z5U,UUU 'These expected and actual tailings and production numbers and dates are lictional and have been assumed for illustrative purposes only. Based on these assumptions and factors, the lreeboard limits lor Cell 4A would be calculated as follows: l3 DEN'SOJ)// mtNES I I I t I t I t I I I I I I t t t I I 1. Prior to March 1. 2009 Prior to March 1, 2009, the maximum elevation of the beach area in Cell 4 is less than or equal to 5,593|msl, therelore the freeboard limit is set at 5,593.7 fmsl. 2. March 1. 2009 to November 1. 2009 The pool surface area would be reduced to the lollowing amount (1 - 225,000/ (2,094,000 - 1,000,000)) x 40 acres = 31.77 acres Based on this reduced pool area, the amount ol lreeboard would be 159.4 acre leet divided by 31.77 acres equals 5.02 feet. When the wave run up laclor lor Cell 4A of 0.77 leel is added to this, the total lreeboard reguired is 5.79 feet. This means that the freeboard limit lor Cell 4A would be reduced from 5593.7|ms1 to 5592.7 fmsl (5598.5|msl minus 5.79leet, rounded to the nearest one-tenth ol a foot). This calculation would be perlormed at March 1, 2009, and this freeboard limit would persist until November 1, 2009. 3. November 1. 2009 to November 1. 2010 The pool surface area would be reduced to the following amount: First, recalculate the pool surface area that should have applied during the previous period, had modeled tonnages (i.e., expected tonnages grossed up by the 150% salety factor) equaled actual tonnages for the period. Since the actual tonnage of 225,000 dry tons was the same as the modeled tonnage of 225,000 dry tons, the recalculated pool surface area is the same as the modeled pool surface area for the previous period, which is 31.77 acres. Then, calculate the modeled pool surface area to be used for the period: (1 - 450,000 I (2,094,000 - 1,000,000 - 225,000)) x 31.77 acres = 15.32 acres Based on this reduced pool area, the amount of freeboard would be 159.4 acre leet divided by 15.32 acres equals '10.40 feet. When the wave run up factor for Cell 4A ol O.77 leel is added to this, the total f reeboard required is 1 1 . 1 7 feet. This means that the freeboard limit for Cell 44 would be reduced lrom 5592.7 fmsl to 5587.3 fmsl (5,598.5 fmsl minus 11.17 feet, rounded to the nearest one-tenth of a foot). This calculation would be performed at November 1, 2009, and this lreeboard limit would persist until November 1,2010. 4. November 1. 2010 to November 1. 2011 The pool surface area would be reduced to the lollowing amount: First, recalculate the pool surface area that should have applied during the previous period, had modeled tonnages (i.e., expected tonnages grossed up by the 150% salety factor) equaled actual tonnages for the period. Since modeled tonnages exceeded actual tonnages, the pool area was reduced too much during the previous period, and must be adjusted. The recalculated pool area for the previous period is: (1 - 275,0001 (2,094,000 - 1,000,000 - 225,000) x 31.77 acres = 21.72 acres. t4 DENISOJ)// ffltNE5 T I I t I t I I T I I I I I I T I I I This recalculated pool surlace area will be used as the starting point lor the freeboard calculation to be performed at November 1, 2010. Then, calculate the modeled pool surface area to be used for the period: (1 - 300,000 I (2,094,000 - 1,000,000 - 225,000 - 275,000\) x 21.72 acres = 10.75 acres Based on this reduced pool area, the amount ol lreeboard would be 159.4 acre leet divided by '10.75 acres equals 14.83 feet. When lhe wave run up lactor lor Cell 4A ol O.77leel is added to this, the total freeboard required is 15.60 feet. This means that the freeboard limit for Cell 4A would be reduced lrom 5587.3 fmsl to 5582.9 fmsl (5598.5 fmsl minus 15.60 leet, rounded to the nearest one-tenth ol a loot). This calculation would be performed at November 1,2010, and this lreeboard limit would persist until November 1, 2011. 15 DEN'SOJ)//ftltNE5 goo3gxo I b I t I I I I I I I I I I I t, I I I I t I I I I I T I t T I t I t I t I White Mesa Mill - Standard Operating Procedures Book I l: Environmental Protection Manual, Section 3.1 9)2108 Revision: Denison€Z Page I of45 APPENDIX B WHITE MESA MILL TAILINGS MANAGEMENT SYSTEM AND DTSCHARGE MINTMLZLTION TECHNOLOGY (DMT) MONITORING PLAN 1. INTRODUCTION This Tailings Management System and Discharge Minimization Technology Monitoring Plan (the "Plan") for the White Mesa Mill (the "Mill") provides procedures for monitoring of the tailings cell system as required under State of Utah Radioactive Materials License No. UT1900479 (the "Radioactive Materials License"), as well as procedures for operating and maintenance of monitoring equipment and reporting procedures that are adequate to demonstrate DMT compliance under State of Utah Ground Water Discharge Permit No. 370004 for the Mill (the "GWDP"). This Plan is designed as a systematic program for constant surveillance and documentation of the integrity of the tailings impoundment system including dike stability, liner integrity, and transport systems, as well as monitoring of water levels in Roberts Pond and feedstock storage areas at the Mill. The Plan requires daily, weekly, quarterly, monthly and annual inspections and evaluations and monthly reporting to Mill management. 2. DAILY TAILINGS INSPECTIONS The following daily tailings inspections shall be performed: 2.1. Dail),ComprehensiveTailingslnspection On a daily basis, including weekends, all areas connected with the four tailings cells will be inspected. Observations will be made of the current condition of each cell, noting any corrective action that needs to be taken. The Environmental or Radiation Technician is responsible for performing the daily tailings inspections, except on weekends when the Shift Foreman will perform the weekend tailings inspections. The Radiation Safety Officer may designate other individuals with training, as described in Section 2.4 below, to perform the daily tailings inspection. Observations made by the inspector will be recorded on the Daily Inspection Data form(a copy of which is attached in Appendix A). The Daily Inspection Dataformcontains an inspection checklist, c) d) e) s) h) i) I I I I I T I I I I t I I I I t I I I White Mesa Mill - Standard Operating Procedures Book I l: Environmental Protection Manual, Section 3.1 9)2108 Revision: Denison€Z Page 2 of 45 which includes a tailings cells map, and spaces to record observations, especially those of immediate concern and those requiring corrective action. The inspector will place a check by all inspection items that appear to be operating properly. Those items where conditions of potential concem are observed should be marked with an "X". A note should accompany the "X" specifying what the concern is and what corrective measures will resolve the problem. This observation of concern should be noted on the form until the problem has been remedied. The date that corrective action was taken should be noted as well. Areas to be inspected include the following: Cell 1,2,3, and 44, Dikes 1,2,3,4A-S, and 4A-w, wind movement of tailings, effectiveness of dust minimization methods, spray evaporation , Cell2 spillway, Cell 3 spillway, Cell 3 and 4A liquid pools and associated liquid return equipment, cell leak detection systems, and the wildlife ponds. Operational features of the tailings area are checked for conditions of potential concern. The following items require visual inspection during the daily tailings inspection: a) Tailings slurry and SX raffinate transport systems from the Mill to the active disposal cell(s), and pool return pipeline and pumps. Daily inspections of the tailings lines are required to be performed when the Mill is operating. The lines to be inspected include the: tailings slurry lines from CCD to the active tailings cell; SX raffinate lines that can discharge into Cell l, Cell 3 or Cell 4,{; the pond return line from the tailings area to the Mill; and, lines transporting pond solutions from one cell to another. b) Cell 1. Cell2. Cell3. Cell4,A. Dike structures including dikes 1,2,3,4A-S, and 4A-W. The Cell 2 spillway, Cell 3 spillway, Cell 3 and Cell 4,{ liquid pools and associated liquid retum equipment. Presence of wildlife and"/or domesticated animals in the tailings area, including waterfowl and burrowing animal habitations. Spray evaporation pumps and lines. I I I I I I I I I I I I t I I I I t I White Mesa Mill - Srandard Operating Procedures Book I l: Environmental Protection Manual, Section 3.1 912108 Revision: Denison6T Page 3 of45 j)Wind movement of tailings and dust minimization. Wind movement of tailings will be evaluated for conditions which may require initiation of preventative dust minimization measures forcells containing tailings sand. During tailings inspection, general surface conditions will be evaluated for the following: 1) areas of tailings subject to blowing and"/or wind movement, 2) liquid pool size, 3) areas not subject to blowing and/or wind movement, expressed as apercentage of the total cell area. The evaluations will be reviewed on a weekly basis, or more frequently if warranted, and will be used to direct dust minimization activities. Observation of flow and operational status of the dust controUspray evaporation system(s). Observations of any abnormal variations in tailings pond elevations in Cells 1, 3, and 4A. Locations of slurry and SX discharge within the active cells. Slurry and SX discharge points need to be indicated on the tailings cells map included in the Daily Inspection Data form. An estimate of flow for active tailings slurry and SX line(s). An estimate of flow in the solution return line(s). Daily measurements in the leak detection system (LDS) sumps of the tailings cells will be made when warranted by changes in the solution level of the respective leak detection system. The trigger for further action when evaluating the measurements in the Cell 1 and Cell 3 leak detection systems is a gain of more than 12 inches in 24 hours. The solution level in Cell4,A, leak detection is not allowed to be more than 1.0 foot above the lowest point on the bottom flexible membrane liner (elevation 5556.14 feet amsl). If any of these observation are made, the Mill Manager should be notified immediately and the leak detection system pump started. k) r) m) n) o) p) I t I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I t I White Mesa Mill - Standard Operating Procedures Book I l: Environmental Protection Manual, Section 3.1 912108 Revision: Denison€Z Page 4 of 45 Whenever the leak detection system pump is operating and the flow meter totalizer is recording, a notation of the date and the time will be recorded on the Daily Inspection Data form. This data will be used in accordance with License Condition 11.3.B through I 1.3.E of the Mill's Radioactive Materials License, to determine whether or not the flow rate into the leak detection system is in excess of the License Conditions. q) An estimate of the percentage of the tailings beach surface iuea and solution pool area is made, including estimates of solutions, cover areas, and tailings sands for Cells 3 and 4,A.. Items (a), (m), (n), and (o) are to be done only when the Mill is operating. When the Mill is down, these items cannot be performed. 2.2. Daily Operations lnspection During Mill operation, the Shift Foreman, or other person with the training specified in Section 2.4 below, designated by the Radiation Safety Officer, will perform an inspection of the tailings line and tailings area at least once per shift, paying close attention for potential leaks and to the discharges from the pipelines. Observations by the lnspector will be recorded on the appropriate line on the Operating Foreman's Daily Inspection form. 2.3. Daily Operations Patrol In addition to the inspections described in Sections 2.1 and2.2 above, a Mill employee will patrol the tailings area at least twice per shift during Mill operations to ensure that there are no obvious safety or operational issues, such as leaking pipes or unusual wildlife activity or incidences. No record of these patrols need be made, but the inspectors will notify the Radiation Safety Officer and./or Mill management in the event that during their inspection they discover that an abnormal condition or tailings emergency has occurred. 2.4. Training All individuals performing inspections described in Sections 2.1 and2.2 above must have Tailings Management System training as set out in the Tailings Inspection Training procedure, which is attached as Appendix B. This training will include a training pack explaining the procedure for performing the inspection and addressing inspection items to be observed. In addition, each individual, after reviewing the training pack, will sign a certification form, indicating that training has been received relative to hisftrer duties as an inspector. I I I I I I I I I I I I I T I I I I I White Mesa Mill - Standard Operating Procedures Book I l: Environmental Protection Manual, Section 3.1 9)2lOB Revision: Denison6Z Page 5 of45 2.5. TailingsEmergencies Inspectors will notify the Radiation Safety Officer and/or Mill management immediately if, during their inspection, they discover that an abnormal condition exists or an event has occurred that could cause a tailings emergency. Until relieved by the Environmental or Radiation Technician or Radiation Safety Officer, inspectors will have the authority to direct resources during tailings emergencies. Any major catastrophic events or conditions pertaining to the tailings area should be reported immediately to the Mill Manager or the Radiation Safety Officer, one of whom will notify Corporate Management. If dam failure occurs, notify your supervisor and the Mill Manager immediately. The Mill Manager will then notify Corporate Management, MSHA (303-231-5465), and the State of Utah, Division of Dam Safety (801-538-7200). 3. WEEKLY TAILINGS AND DMT INSPECTION AND WEEKLY AND MONTHLY SURVEYS 3.1. Weekly Tailings lnspections Weekly tailings inspections are to be conducted by the Radiation Safety Department and include the following: a) Itak Detection Systems Each tailings cell's leak detection system shall be checked weekly to determine whether it is wet or dry. If marked wet, the liquid levels need to be measured and reported. In Cell 1 and Cell 3 the leak detection system is measured by use of a pipe that is removed from the system which will indicate the presence of solutions in the LDS system. The Cell4,A. leak detection system is monitored on a continuous basis by use of a pressure transducer that feeds water level information to an electronic data collector. The pressure transducer is calibrated for fluid with a specific gravity of 1.0. The water levels are measured every hour and the information is stored for later retrieval. The water levels are measured to the nearest 0. 10 inch. The data collector is currently programmed to store 7 days of water level information. The number of days of stored data can be increased beyond 7 days if needed. The water level data is downloaded to a laptop computer on a weekly basis and incorporated into the Mill's environmental monitoring data base, and into the files for weekly inspection reports of the tailings cell leak detection systems I t I I t I I I I I t I t I I I I I I White Mesa Mill - Standard Operating Procedures Book I 1: Environmental Protection Manual, Section 3.1 912108 Revision: Denison6Z Page 6 of45 If sufficient fluid is present in the leak detection system of any cell, the fluid shall be pumped from the LDS, to the extent reasonably possible, and record the volume of fluid recovered. Any fluid pumped from an LDA shall be returned to a disposal cell. If fluid is pumped from an LDS, the flow rate shall be calculated by dividing the recorded volume of fluid recovered by the elapsed time since fluid was last pumped or increases in the LDS fluid levels were recorded, whichever is the more recent. This calculation shall be documented as part of the weekly inspection. Upon the initial pumping of fluid from an LDS, a fluid sample shall be collected and analyzed in accordance with paragraph 11.3 C. of the Radioactive Materials License. For Cell 44, under no circumstance shall fluid head in the leak detection system sump exceed a 1-foot level above the lowest point in the lower flexible membrane liner. To determine the Maximum Allowable Daily LDS Flow Rates in the Cell 4A leak detection system, the total volume of all fluids pumped from the LDS on a weekly basis shall be recovered from the data collector, and that information will be used to calculate an average volume pumped per day. Under no circumstances shall the daily LDS flow volume exceed 24,L60 gallons/day. The maximum daily LDS flow volume will be compared against the measured cell solution levels detailed on Table 1 in Appendix E, to determine the maximum daily allowable LDS flow volume for varying head conditions in Cell 4A. b) Slimes Drain Water Level Monitoring (i) Cell 3 is an active tailings cell while Cell2 is partiallyreclaimed with approximately 9OVo of the surface covered by platform fill. Each cell has a slimes drain system which aids in dewatering the slimes and sands placed in the cell; (ii) Cell 2 has a pump placed inside of the slimes drain access pipe at the bottom of the slimes drain. As taken from actual measurements, the bottom of the slimes drain is 38 feet below a water level measuring point at the centerline of the slimes drain access pipe, at the ground surface level. This means that the bottom of the slimes drain pool and the location of the pump are one foot above the lowest point of the FML in Cell2, which, based on construction reports, is at a depth of 39 feet below the water level measuring point on the slimes drain access pipe for Cell 2; I T I I I I I I I I t I I t I I I I I I Wt it" Mesa Mill - Standard Operating Procedures Book I l; Environmental Protection Manual, Section 3.1 912108 Revision: Denison6Z PageT of45 (iii)The slimes drain pump in Cell 2 is on a timed system, under which it pumps for 15 minutes each hour, thereby allowing the slimes wastewater to recharge for 45 minutes before being pumped again. Based on measurements taken in August 2006, the water level in the Cell 2 slimes drain recharges to a depth of about 28.50 feet before each pumping and is pumped to a depth of 38 feet after each pumping, in each case measured below the water level measuring point on the slimes drain access pipe. The average wastewater head in the Cell2 slimes drain is therefore about 5 feet. The depth to water of about 28.50 feet after recharge is below the phreatic surface of tailings Cell 2, which is at a depth of about 20 feet below the water level measuring point on the slimes drain access pipe. As a result, there is a continuous flow of wastewater from Cell2 into the slimes drain collection system. Mill management considers that the average allowable wastewater head in the Cell 2 slimes drain resulting from pumping at these intervals is satisfactory and is as low as reasonably achievable. Based on past experience, cycling the pump more than l5 minutes every hour can result in more replacement costs for pumps and more resulting system downtime; (iv)The Cell2 slimes drain pump is checked weekly to observe that it is operating and that the timer is set properly, which is noted on the Weekly Tailings Inspection Form. If at any time the pump is observed to be not working properly, it will be fixed or replaced within 15 days; (v) Depth to wastewater in the Cell? slimes drain access pipe shall be monitored and recorded weekly to determine maximum and minimum fluid head before and after a pumping cycle, respectively. All head measurements must be made from the same measuring point (the notch at the north side of the access pipe), and made to the nearest 0.01 foot. The results will be recorded as depth-in-pipe measurements on the Weekly Tailings Inspection Form; (vi)On a monthly basis, the slimes drain pump will be turned off and the wastewater in the slimes drain access pipe will be allowed to stabilize for at least 90 hours. Once the water level has stabilized (based on no change in water level for three (3) successive readings taken no less than one (1) hour apart) the water level of the wastewater will be measured and recorded as a depth-in-pipe measurement on the Monthly lnspection Data form, by measuring the depth to water below the water level measuring point on the slimes drain access pipe;(vii) No process liquids shall be allowed to be discharged into Cell 2;(viii) If at any time the most recent average annual head in the Cell2 slimes drain is found to have increased above the average head for the previous calendar year, the Licensee will comply with the requirements of Part I.G.3 of the GWDP, including the requirement to provide notification to the Executive Secretary orally within 24 hours followed by written notification; (ix)Because Cell 3 and Cell4A are currently active, no pumping from the Cell 3 or Cell 4A slimes drain is authorized. Prior to initiation of tailings dewatering operations for Cell 3 or Cell 4A, a similar procedure will be developed for ensuring that average I I I I I I t I I I I I I I I I I I I White Mesa Mill - Standard Operating Procedures Book I l: Environmental Protection Manual. Section 3.1 9)2lOB Revision : Den ison67 Page 8 of45 head elevations in the Cell3 and Cell44, slimes drains are kept as low as reasonably achievable, and that the Cell 3 and Cell4A, slimes drains are inspected and the results reported in accordance with the requirements of the permit." c) Wind Movement of Tailings An evaluation of wind movement of tailings or dusting and control measures shall be taken if needed. d) Tailings Wastewater Pool_and Beach Area_Elevation Monitoring Solution elevation measurements in Cells 1r3 and 4,A, and Roberts Pond are to be taken by survey on a weekly basis. and the beach area in be taken by survey on a monthly basis. as follows: (i) The survey will be performed by the Mill's Radiation Safety Officer or designee (the "Surveyor") with the assistance of another Mill worker (the "Assistant"); (ii) The survey will be performed using a survey instrument (the "Survey Instrument") accurate to 0.01 feet, such as a Sokkai No. 82l, or equivalent, together with a survey rod (the "Survey Rod") having a visible scale in 0.01 foot increments; (iii)The reference Points (the "Reference Points") for Cells 1# and 4.A, and Roberts Pond are known points established by professional survey. For Cell I and Roberts Pond, the Reference Point is a wooden stake with a metal disk on it located on the southeast comer of Cell l. The elevation of the metal disk (the "Reference Point Elevation") for Cell I and Roberts Pond is at 5,623.14 feet above mean sea level ("FMSL"). For Cell3+nd.eell4A, the Reference Point is a piece of metal rebar located on the south dike of Cell 3. The elevation at the top of this piece of rebar (the Reference Point Elevation for Cell3adell-4A) is at 5,607.83 FMSL; (iv) The Surveyor will set up the Survey lnstrument in a location where both the applicable Reference Point and pond or beach surface are visible. For Cell I and Roberts Pond, this is typically on the road on the Cell I south dike between Cell I and Roberts Pond, approximately 100 feet east of the Cell l/Roberts Pond Reference Point. For Cell3+nd€ell-4A, this is typically on the road on the Cell 3 dike approximately 100 feet east of the Cell34l\ Reference Point; (v) Once in location, the Surveyor will ensure that the Survey lnstrument is level by centering the bubble in the level gauge on the Survey Instrument; (vi)The Assistant will place the Survey Rod vertically on the Reference Point (on the metal disk on the Cell l/Roberts Pond Reference Point and on the top of the rebar on the Cell3+ndreell4A Reference Point. The Assistant will ensure that the Survey Rod is vertical by gently rocking the rod back and forth until the Surveyor has established a level reading; I I I I I I t I t I T I t t I t I I I White Mesa Mill - Standard Operating Procedures Book I l: Environmental Protection Manual, Section 3.1 9)2108 Revision: Denison{l Page 9 of45 (vii) The Surveyor will focus the cross hairs of the Survey lnstrument on the scale on the Survey Rod, and record the number (the "Reference Point Reading"), which represents the number of feet the Survey Instrument is reading above the Rgeference Point; (viii) The Assistant will then move to a designated location where the Survey Rod can be placed on the surface of the main solution pond in theCell l. Cell 44 or Roberts Pond. or the area of the beach in Cell 4A with the highest elevation. as the case may be. These designated locations, and the methods to be used by the Assistant to consistently use the same locations are as follows: A. Pond Surface Measurements I. Cell4,{ I€elB Asiistant witt wa in+ B-€elH"a The Assistant will walk down the slope in the northeast corner of Cell 44 and place the Survey Rod at the liquid level. il. Cell I €*tL+ A mark has been painted on the north side of the ramp going to the pump platform in Cell 1. The Assistant will place the Survey Rod against that mark and hold the rod vertically, with one end just touching the liquid surface; and Itr. Roberts Pond D*ebe*s-Pend A mark has been painted on the railing of the pump stand in Roberts Pond. The Assistant will place the Survey Rod against that mark and hold the rod vertically, with one end just touching the liquid surface. Based on the foregoing methods, the approximate coordinate locations for the measuring points for Roberts Pond and the Cells I and 4,\ pond surface are: I I I T I I I I I I I I I t I T I I t White Mesa Mill - Standard Operating Procedures Book I l: Environmental Protection Manual, Section 3.1 9)2108 Revision: Denison4T Page l0 of45 These coordinate locations may vary somewhat depending on solution elevations in the Pond and Cells; B. Cell4A Beach Elevation The Assistant will olace the Survey Rod at the point on the beach area of Cell 44 that has the highest elevation. If it is not clear which area of the beach has the highest elevation. then multiple points on the beach area will be survelred until the Surveyor is satisfied that the point on the Cell 44 beach area with the highest elevation has been surveyed. If it is clear that all points on the Cell 4,{ beach area are below 5.593 FMSL. then the Surveyor may rely on one survey point: (ix)The Assistant will hold the Survey Rod vertically with one end of the Survey Rod just touching the pond or beach surface. The Assistant will ensure that the Survey Rod is vertical by gently rocking the rod back and forth until the Surveyor has established a level reading; (x) The Surveyor will focus the cross hairs of the Survey Instrument on the scale on the Survey Rod, and record the number (the "Pen*surface Reading"), which represents the number of feet the Survey Instrument is reading above the pond or beach surface level. The Surveyor will calculate the elevation of the pond or beach surface as FSML by adding the Reference Point Reading for the Cell or Roberts Pond, as the case may be, to the Reference Point Elevation for the Cell or Roberts Pond and subtracting the Pen*surface Reading for the Cell or Roberts Pond, and will record the number accurate to 0.01 feet. e) Summary In addition, the weekly inspection should summarize all activities conceming the tailings area for that particular week. Results of the weekly tailings inspection are recorded on the Weekly Tailings and DMT Inspection form. An example of the Weekly Tailings and DMT Inspection form is provided in Appendix A. 3.2. Weekly Inspection of Solution lrvels in Roberts Pond Northine Eastins Roberts Pond 323,04r 2,579,697 Cell I 322,196 2.579,277H332s5e82+7'349 Cell4A 320,300 2,579,360 t I I wr,ite Mesa Mill - Standard Operating Proceduresr Book I l: Environmental Protection Manual, Section 3.1 T 912108 Revision: Denison6T Page ll of45 I T I I I I I T I I I I T I I I On a weekly basis, solution elevations are taken on Roberts Pond, in accordance with the procedures set out in Section 3.1 d) above. The Weekly solution level in Roberts Pond is recorded on the Weekly Tailings and DMT Inspection form. Based on historical observations, the FML at the Pond Surface Reading area for Roberts Pond, is approximately six inches above the lowest point on the pond's FML. If the pond solution elevation at the Pond Surface Reading area is at or below the FML for that area, the pond will be recorded as being dry. 3.3. Weekly Feedstock Storage Area Inspections Weekly feedstock storage area inspections will be performed by the Radiation Safety Department, to confirm that: a) the bulk feedstock materials are stored and maintained within the defined area described in the GWDP, as indicated on the map attached hereto as Appendix D; and b) all alternate feedstock located outside the defined Feedstock Area are maintained within water tight containers. The results of this inspection will be recorded on the Ore Storage/Sample Plant Weekly Inspection Report, a copy of which is contained in Appendix A. Any variance in stored materials from this requirement or observed leaking alternate feedstock drums or other containers will be brought to the attention of Mill Management and rectified within 15 days. 4. MONTHLY TAILINGS INSPECTION Monthly tailings inspections will be performed by the Radiation Safety Officer or his designee from the Radiation Safety Department and recorded on theMonthly Inspection Dataform, an example of which is contained in Appendix A. Monthly inspections are to be performed no sooner than 14 days since the last monthly tailings inspection and can be conducted concurrently with the quarterly tailings inspection when applicable. The following items are to be inspected: a) Tailings Slurry Pipeline When the Mill is operating, the slury pipeline will be inspected at key locations to determine pipe wear. Pipe thickness will be measured using an ultrasonic device by either the radiation safety staff or other trained designees. The critical points of the pipe include bends, slope changes, valves, and junctions, which are critical to dike stability. These locations to be monitored will be determined by the Radiation Safety Officer or his designee from the Radiation Safety Department during the Mill run. b) Diversion Ditches I I I wrrite Mesa Mill - Standard operating ProceduresI Book I l: Environmental Protection Manual, Section 3.1 I 912108 Revision: Denison4/ Page 12 of 45 I I I I I I I I I I I I t I I I Diversion ditches l, 2 and 3 shall be monitored monthly for sloughing, erosion, undesirable vegetation, and obstruction of flow. Diversion berm2should be checked for stability and signs of distress. c) Sedimentation Pond Activities around the Mill and facilities area sedimentation pond shall be summarized for the month. d) Overspray Dust Minimization The inspection shall include an evaluation of overspray minimization, if applicable. This entails ensuring that the overspray system is functioning properly. In the event that overspray is carried more than 50 feet from the cell, the overspray system should be immediately shut-off. I I I Wnit" Mesa Mill - Standard Operating Procedures gl2t[SRevision: Denison{ZIIJool( I t : Environmental Protection Manual, Section 3. I Page 13 of 45 I I e) Remarlcs A section is included on the Monthly Inspection Data form for remarks in which I recommendations can be made or observations of concern can be documented. f) Summary of Daily, Weekly and Quarterly Inspections I The monthly inspection will also summarize the daily, weekly and, if applicable, quarterly tailings inspections for the specific month. I In addition, settlement monitors are typically surveyed monthly and the results reported on the Monthly Inspection Data form. I 5. QUARTERLY TAILINGS IN'PECTI.N I The quarterly tailings inspection is performed by the Radiation Safety Officer or his designee fromI the Radiation Safety Department, having the training specified in Section 2.4 above, once per calendar quarter. A quarterly inspection should be performed no sooner than 45 days since the I previous quarterly inspection was performed. Each quarterly inspection shall include an Embankment Inspection, an Operations/lVlaintenance I Review, a Construction Review and a Summary, as follows: I a) Embankment Inspection The Embankment inspection involves a visual inspection of the crest, slope and toe I :ff::i:::: i,T#"*ment, seepase' severe erosion, subsidence, shrinkage cracks, I b) Operations/Maintenance Review The Operations/Nlaintenance Review consists of reviewing Operations and I Maintenance activities pertaining to the tailings area on a quarterly basis. c) Construction Review I The Construction Review consists of reviewing any construction changes or modifications made to the tailings area on a quarterly basis.I I I I I I I I I I I I I t I I I I I I I I I Wtrite Mesa Mill - Standard Operating Procedures Book I l: Environmental Protection Manual, Section 3.1 9)2log Revision: Denison4Z Page 14 of45 d) Summary The summary will include all major activities or observations noted around the tailings area on a quarterly basis. If any of these conditions are noted, the conditions and corrective measures taken should be documented in the Quarterly Inspection Data form. An example of the Quarterly Inspection Data form is provided in Appendix A. 6. ANNUAL EVALUATIONS The following annual evaluations shall be performed: 6.1. Annual Technical Evaluation An annual technical evaluation of the tailings management system is performed by a registered professional engineer (PE), who has experience and training in the area of geotechnical aspects of retention structures. The technical evaluation includes an on-site inspection of the tailings management system and a thorough review of all tailings records for the past year. The Technical Evaluation also includes a review and summary of the annual movement monitor survey (see Section 5.2 below). All tailings cells and corresponding dikes will be inspected for signs of erosion, subsidence, shrinkage, and seepage. The drainage ditches will be inspected to evaluate surface water control structures. In the event tailings capacity evaluations (as per SOP PBL-3) were performed for the receipt of alternate feed material during the year, the capacity evaluation forms and associated calculation sheets will be reviewed to ensure that the maximum tailings capacity estimate is accurate. The amount of tailings added to the system since the last evaluation will also be calculated to determine the estimated capacity at the time of the evaluation. Tailings inspection records will consist of daily, weekly, monthly, and quarterly tailings inspections. These inspection records will be evaluated to determine if any freeboard limits are being approached. Records will also be reviewed to summarize observations of potential concern. The evaluation also involves discussion with the Environmental and/or Radiation Technician and the Radiation Safety Officer regarding activities around the tailings area for the past year. During the annual inspection, photographs of the tailings area will be taken. The training of individuals will be reviewed as a part of the Annual Technical Evaluation. I T I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I White Mesa Mill - Standard Operating Procedures Book I l: Environmental Protection Manual, Section 3.1 I l2l08 Revision: Denison4Z Page 15 of45 The registered engineer will obtain copies of selected tailings inspections, along with the monthly and quarterly summaries of observations of concern and the corrective actions taken. These copies will then be included in the Annual Technical Evaluation Report. The Annual Technical Evaluation Report must be submitted by September I't of every year to: Directing Dam Safety Engineer State of Utah, Natural Resources 1636 West North Temple, Suite 220 Salt Lake City, Utah 84116-3156 6.2. Movement Monitors A movement monitor survey is to be conducted by a licensed surveyor annually during the second quarter of each year. The movement monitor survey consists of surveying monitors along dikes 3-S, 4A-W, and 4A-S to detect any possible settlement or movement of the dikes. The data generated from this survey is reviewed and incorporated into the Annual Technical Evaluation Report of the tailings management system. 6.3. Freeboard Limits The freeboard limits set out in this Section are intended to capture the Local 6-hour Probable Maximum Precipitation (PMP) event. which was determined in the January 10. 1990 Drainage Report (the "Drainage Report") for the White Mesa site to be l0 inches. The flood volume from the PMP event over the Cell I pond area plus the adjacent drainage areas. was calculated in the Drainage Report to be 103 acre feet of water. with a wave run up factor of 0.90 feet. The flood volume from the PMP event over the Cell 2 and Cell 3 pond areas. plus the adjacent drainage areas was calculated in the Drainage Report to be 123.4 acre-feet of water. The flood volume from the PMP event over the Cell 4A area was calculated in the Drainage Report to be 36 acre-feet of water (40 acres. plus the adjacent drainage area of 3.25 acres. times the PMP of l0 inches). with a wave run up factor of 0.77 feet. The total pool surface area in Cell I is 52.9 acres and in Cell4A is 40 acres. The top of the flexible membrane liner ("FML") for Cell I is 5.618.2 FMSL and for Cell44 is 5.598.5 FMSL. Based on the foregoine. the freeboard limits for the Mill's tailings cells will be set as follows: 6.3.1. Cell I I Wtrite Mesa Mill- Standard Operating Procedures Book I l: Environmental Protection Manual, Section 3.1 9l2l08 Revision: Denison4Z Page 16 of45 The freeboard limit for Cell 1 will be set at 5.615.4 FMSL. This will allow Cell I to capture all of the PMP volume associated with Cell 1. The total volume requirement for Cell I is 103 acre feet divided by 52.9 acres equals 1.95 feet. plus the wave run up factor of 0.90 feet equals 2.85 feet. The freeboard limit is then 5.618.2 FMSL minus 2.85 feet equals 5.615.4 FMSL. Under Radioactive Materials License condition 10.3. this freeboard limit is set and is not recalculated annually. 6.3.2. Cell2 The freeboard limit for Cell 2 is inapplicable. since Cell 2 is filled with solids. All of the PMP volume associated with Cell 2 will be attributed to Cell 4A (and/or any future tailings cells). 6.3.3. Cell3 The freeboard limit for Cell 3 is inapplicable. since Cell 3 is close to being filled with solids. and all of the PMP flood volume associated with Cell 3 will be attributed to Cell 4A (and/or any future tailings cells). 6.3.4. Cell4A The freeboard limit for Cell4.{ will be set assuming that the total PMP volume for Cells 2. 3 and 4A of 159.4 acre feet will be accommodated in Cell 4A. The procedure for calculating the freeboard limit for Cell4A is as follows: (a) Wen the Pool Sufface Area is 40 Acres When the pool surface area in Cell 4A is 40 acres (i.e.. when there are no beaches). the freeboard limit for Cell4,A will be 5.593.7 FMSL. which is 4.76 feet below the FML (being the quotient of 159.4 acre feet divided by 40 acres. which equals 3.99 feet. plus the wave run up factor for Cell 4,{ of 0.77 feet. rounded to the nearest one-tenth of a foot): (b) When the Maximum Elevation o.f the Beach Area is 5.593 FMSL or Less When the maximum elevation of the beach area in Cell 4,A, is 5593 FMSL or less. then the freeboard limit will be 5.593.7 FMSL. which is the same as in (a) above. This allows for the situation where there may be beaches. but these beaches are at a lower elevation than the freeboard limit established in (a) above. and there is therefore ample freeboard above the beaches to hold the maximum PMPvolume. The maximum elevation of the beach area will be determined by monthly surveys performed by Mill personnel in accordance with the Mill's DMT Plan. which will be revised to include this requirement (see Section 6.1 below). (c) When the Maximum Elevation o.f the Beach Area First Exceeds 5.593 FMSL When the maximum elevation of the beach area in Cell 4A first exceeds 5.593 FMSL. then the freeboard limit for the remainder of the ensuins year (period t=0) (until the next November 1) will be calculated when that elevation is first exceeded (the "Initial Calculation Date"). as follows: White Mesa Mill - Standard Operating Procedures Book I l: Environmental Protection Manual, Section 3.I 912108 Revision: Denison6T Page 17 of45 i) The total number of dry tons of tailings that have historically been deposited into Cell 4A prior to the Initial Calculation Date ("T0") will be determined: ii) The expected number of dry tons to be deposited into Cell 4A for the remainder of the ensuing year (uo to the next November l). based on production estimates for that Period ("Anx"). will b. d.,. 'n.O' iii) As*_will be grossed up by a safety factor of 150% to allow for a potential underestimation of the number of tons that will be deposited in the cell during the remainder of the ensuing year. This grossed up number can be referred to as the "modeled tonnage" for the period:iv) The total design tailings solid storage capacity of Cell 4A will be accepted as 2.094.000 dry tons of tailines:v) The available remaining space in Cell4.A' for solids as at the Initial Calculation Date will be calculated as 2.094.000 dry tons minus To:vi) The reduction in the pool surface area for the remainder of the ensuing year will be assumed to be directly proportional to the reduction in the available space in Cell4,A, for solids. That is. the reduced pool surface area for period t=0 ("RPAo"). after the reduction. will be calculated to be: (l - (Ast"x 1.5) / (2.094.000 - Ts)) x 40 acres = RPAo vii) The required freeboard for Cell 4A for the remainder of the period t=0 can be calculated in feet to be the wave run uLfactor for Cell 4,A, of 0.77 feet plus the Erotient of 159.4 acre feet divided by the RPAg. The freeboard limit for Cell 4,A' for the remainder of period t=0 would then be the elevation of the FML for Cell 4,{ of 5598.5 FMSL less this required freeboard amount. rounded to the nearest one-tenth of a foot: andviii) The foregoing calculations will be performed at the Initial Calculation Date and the resulting freeboard limit will persist until the next November l. An example of this calculation is set out in Aopendix F. ( dl Annual Freeboard Calculation When the Maximum Elevation o.f the Beach Area Exceeds 5,593 FMSL On November I of each year (the "Annual Calculation Date"). the reduction in pool area for the ensuing year (referred to as period t) will be calculated by: i) First. calculating the Adjusted Reduced Pool Area for the previous period (ARPArr) to reflect actual tonnages deposited in Cell44. for the previous period (period t-l). The RPAu used for the previous period was based on expected tonnages for period t- l. grossed uo b), a safety factor. The ARPAd is merely the RPA that would have been used for period t- I had the actual tonnages for year t- I been known at the outset of period t-l and had the RPA been calculated based on the actual tonnaees forperiod t-1. This allows the freeboard calculations to be corrected each year to take into account actual tonnages deposited in the cell as of the date of the calculation. The ARPA[can be calculated using the followins formula: I t T I I I I I I I I I I I I t I I I Wtrite Mesa Mill - Standard Operating Procedures Book I l: Environmental Protection Manual, Section 3.1 9)2108 Revision: Denison6Z Page l8 of45 (1 - Au / (2.094.000 - Tu)) x ARPATz= ARPA'T Where:. Ar-r ls the actual number during period t-l:o Trlis the actual number of dry tons of tailings solids historically deposited in Cell 4,{ prior to the beeinning of period t- l: and. ARPA,-z rs the Adjusted Redu started at the Initial Calculation Date. then ARPA"z is 40 acres: ii) Once the ARPAu_for the previous period (oeriod t-1) has been calculated. the RPA for the subject period (period t) can be calculated as follows: (1 - (Ar* x 1.5) / (2.094.000 - TJ) x ARPAr.r- = RPA Where:o A,x is the expected number of dry tons of tailines to be deposited into Cell 4A for the ensuing year (period t). based on production estimates for the year (as can be seen from the foregoing formula. this expected number is grossed up bv a safetv factor of 1.5):o Tris the actual number of dry tons of tailings solids historicall), deoosited in Cell 4,A, prior to the beginning of period t: ando ARPAr:_is the Adjusted Reduced Pool Area forperiod rl. which is the pool surface area for the previous period (oeriod t-l) that should have applied during that period. had modeled tonnages (i.e.. expected tonnages grossed up by the 1507o safety factor) equaled actual tonnages for the period: iii) The required freeboard for period t can be calculated in feet to be the wave run up factor for Cell 4.A of 0.77 feet plus the quotient of 159.4 acre feet divided by the RPA,. The freeboard limit for Cell 4,A, for period t would then be the elevation of the FML for Cell4A of 5598.5 FMSL less this required freeboard amount. rounded to the nearest one-tenth of a foot: andiv) The foregoing calculations will be performed at the Annual Calculation Date for period t and the resulting freeboard limit will persist until the next Annual Calculation Date for period t+1. An examole of this calculation is set out in Appendix F. (el Wen a Spillway is Added to Cell4A that Allows Overflow Into a New Tailinss Cell When a spillway is added between Cell 44, and a new tailings cell (Cell 4B). then. if the freeboard limit for the new cell is set to cover the entire PMP event for Cells 2. 3.4A and 48. the freeboard limit for Cell 4,A. will be inapplicable. 6.3.5. Roberts Pond I t I Wtrite Mesa Mill - Standard Operating Procedures Book I l: Environmental Protection Manual, Section 3.1 912108 Revision: Denison6Z Page 19 of45 f*XeeUewehn:g/6 xe ?Eper lan ry Tl'e freebeard limit fer eell 3 is determined annuallyusing the rlewing preeedure: This estimate is multiplied by l=5; a faeter ef safety; te yield the Ma*imum Mill Preduetien, A#ee in+e* velume weuld flew threugh the spillway irte €elt l,L White Mesa Mill - Standard Operating Procedures Book I 1: Environmental Protection Manual, Section 3.I 9)2108 Revision: Denison4Z Page 20 of 45 the a4iaeent drainage area ef 3,25 aereq times the PMP ef le inehes), This weuld result in a tetd ioftis White Mesa Mill requiresthat the nilnimum freebeard be ne less than3=O feet fer any ef the existing tep ef liner. The freebeard fer €ell lA rveuld therefere be 5595.3 arnsl (tep ef liner 5598'5 3,2 H)= I t I I I I t I I I I I T I I I I I I White Mesa Mill - Standard Operating Procedures Book I l: Environmental Protection Manual, Section 3.1 9)2108 Revision: Denison6Z Page 21 of45 ilXeW** The freeboard limit for Roberts Pond is a liquid mzximum elevation of 5,624.0 feet above mean sea level, as specified in the GWDP. 6.4. Annual [rak Detection Fluid Samples ln the event solution has been detected in a leak detection system, a sample will be collected on an annual basis. This sample will be analyzed according to the conditions set forth in License Condition 11.3.C. The results of the analysis will be reviewed to determine the origin of the solution. 7. OTHER INSPECTIONS All daily, weekly, monthly, quarterly and annual inspections and evaluations should be performed as specified in Sections 2,3,4,5 and 6 above. However, additional inspections should be conducted after any significant storm or significant natural or man-made event occurs. 8. REPORTING REQUIREMENTS ln addition to the Daily Inspection Data,Weekly Tailings Inspection, Monthly Inspection Data and Quarterly Inspection Dataforms included as Appendix A and described in Sections 2,3,4 and 5 respectively, and the Operating Foreman's Daily Inspection and Weekly Mill Inspecrion forms described in Sections 2 and3, respectively, the following additional reports shall also be prepared: 8.1. Monthly Tailings Reports Monthly tailings reports are prepared every month and summarize the previous month's activities around the tailings area. If not prepared by the Radiation Safety Officer, the report shall be submitted to the Radiation Safety Officer for review. The Mill Manager will review the report as well before the report is filed in the Mill Central File. The report will contain a summary of observations of concern noted on the daily and weekly tailings inspections. Corrective measures taken during the month will be documented along with the observations where appropriate. All daily and weekly tailings inspection forms will be attached to the report. A monthly inspection form will also be attached. Quarterly inspection forms will accompany the report when applicable. The report will be signed and dated by the preparer in addition to the Radiation Safety Officer and the Mill Manager. I I I t I t I I I I t I t I I T I t I White Mesa Mill - Standard Operating Procedures Book I l: Environmental Protection Manual, Section 3.1 9)2108 Revision : Denison6Z Page 22 of 45 8.2. DMT Reports Quarterly reports of DMT monitoring activities of all required information required by Part 1.F.2 of the GWDP relating to the inspections described in Section 3.1(b) (Slimes Drain Water lrvel Monitoring), 3.1(d) (Tailings Wastewater Pool and Beach Area Elevation Monitoring),3.2 (Weekly Inspection of Solution lrvels in Roberts Pond) and 3.3 (Weekly Feedstock Storage Area Inspections) will be provided to the Executive Secretary on the schedule provided in Table 5 of the GWDP. An annual summary and graph for each calendar year of the depth to wastewater in the Cell2 slimes drain must be included in the fourth quarter report. After the first year, and beginning in 2008, quarterly reports shall include both the current year monthly values and a graphic comparison to the previous year. I I I Wlite Mesa Mill - Standard Operating Procedures g)2t[SRevision: Denison6ZI Book I l: Environmental Protection Manual, Section 3.1 Page 23 of 45 APPENDIX A FORMS $ oU co 0)U N C)U (.) 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(h o ,o oo o bo o ooo2 0) C)o oo=ll oaoo a (hHz Fi &&D.1otr z ErQ E1lrazi-.E !I< -:(J .=[ol^Fa d-E,r,roi Y^oT H'E.*aLVHa .2'iAC- tIJ 99 -oUtlo ,o o O (n 6 U) o F XIv) o oA (n r{ Er il B Fl lz,tt a q) J F U) z0. { Il> ol $lalq -r4lal cql o.rl-vlol fl-vl al il Els ol oll4l ol oFzri!(2vz tez E] z cnI{X r.i EIololclolUI .sl EIql olO.l EI-lcl .91 iolclolUI $s,- (tlEB.= c)3? (hv^9o9go; =6,; ;9)ri o3 P>Ee o'a;b,t*oH cdEE:E>= u) (n l) o (D H 0) 0) 0) CN oo C) 0.o (h 0&od Q al EIoI clol ololOIalcl o (/) o{) U F-l !n9'f, .?nCN0).,AYo.,6trO. '.4 0) € Atl -lct c.) o)l -0)Ern9?: fr -(EP> (!A O-o. !) l,/ =ho. 6Y lC .i -=>a3 rrr() ..z 9 -:z ,A I I I I I I I I I I T I I I t I I t I 0)tr o,)g I z& E] C)z U -l FzrdF fro U)z F & IU) $ 0)U r. llBQ, llElllrtttu,dl=l-lEt} x 3 EI l=; q ll.Etr?llEiEo cn oU rrttEo, ll(.)lllrlll9ttto,*l-lltI# 8 B Erlu=ll==oll.=(!;-tt.=EdllEiEo C.l C)U oo LIEo, lottrll{)ll6-t Il();ilB, ! Xttll.s?ll.=cllEii XU E]*(J zo3Qrdtrrd X ri:] :l :i oU oa o do LIEa. l8llEtto_l Il# i EI lE;ll.=trllc]-lll+r 0) O (/) Oo6)! *8;; .CJO r-l in9$ oe.= \otrNo-.L.l oo.. 6trOr '.4 q)& @ 6tl -lch (-: ooirOEU)9?: -e P>iC6A odA8\J: Ed c!3 gAP lC - v>a3r!0.)..E=9 -:u ,A I I I r-l i,nqr oe,9 r-tr(\lo..Il o0 tr0r 6 a)&€ (\il -lch E]& (n()z J F II(o 0. z Cf; o:.:HUEu)c)- EEs> -c6Ak.=O-ABv:,oE Ho. (6EaPtc =9>=3'!(.) ..E=Ly ,A I I t t I t I I I I I I t I I I I I I t t I I White Mesa Mill - Standard Operating Procedures Book I l: Environmental Protection Manual, Section 3.1 912108 Revision: Denison62 Page 28 of45 APPENDTX A (CONT) DENTSON MrNES (USA) CORP. WEEKLY TAILINGS INSPECTION Date:lnspectors: l. Pond and Beach Cell l: (a) Pond Solution Elevation elevations (msl,ft) (b) FML Bottom Elevation (c) Depth of Water above FML ((a)-(b)) 5597 (b)Flt4r Bettern Elevatien 5570 (e)nepth ef Water abeve FMt ((a) (b)) Cell 4,A': (a)Pond Solution Elevation (b)FML Bottom Elevation 5564 (c)Depth of Water above FML ((a)-(b)) (d)Elevation of Beach Area with Hishest elevation (monthlv) Roberts Pond: (a)Pond Solution Elevation (b)FML Bottom Elevation _5612.34- (c)Depth of Water above FML ((a)-(b)) _ 2. Slimes Drain Liquid Levels Cell2 Pump functioning properly Pump Timer set at l5min on 45 min off Depth to Liquid pre-pump Deoth to Liouid Post-oumo (all measurements are depth-in-pipe) Pre-pump head is 38'-Depth to Liquid Pre-pump = Post-pump head is 38' -Depth to Liquid Post- DumD = I I I T I I I I I I I I t I I I I I I I Wtrite Mesa Mill - Standard Operating Procedures Book I l: Environmental Protection Manual, Section 3.1 912108 Revision: Denison6Z Page29 of 45 White Mesa Mill - Standard Operating Procedures Book I l: Environmental Protection Manual, Section 3.1 3. Leak Detection Systems 4. Tailings Area Inspection (Note dispersal of blowing tailings): 9J2lO8 Revision: Denison4Z Page 30 of 45 Observation: Cell I Cell2 Cell3 Cell4A Is LDS wet or drv?wet dry wet drv wet drv wet drv If wet, Record liouid level: _Ft to Liouid Ft to Liouid _Ft to Liouid Ft to Liquid * If sufficient fluid is present, record volume of fluid pumped and flow rate: Volume Flow Rate_ Volume Flow Rate_ Volume Flow Rate Volume Flow Rate_ Was fluid sample collected? ves no ves no ves no ves no I I I t I t I I I t I I I I I t I I I 5. Control Methods lmplemented: 6. Remarks: 7. Contaminated Waste Dump: * Does Level exceed l2 inches above the lowest point on the bottom flexible membrane liner (elevation 5556.14 amsl)? _ no _ yes If Cell 4A leak detection system level exceeds l2 inches above the lowest point on the bottom flexible membrane liner (elevation 5556.14 amsl), notify supervisor or Mill manager immediately. t I I Wnite Mesa Mill - Standard Operating ProceduresI Book I l: Environmental Protection Manual, Section 3.1 I I APPENDTX A (CONT.) MONTHLY INSPECTION DATA 912108 Revision: Denison6Z Page 3l of45 Inspector: I Date: I 1. slurry Pipeline: I I ;T:::;;;::,'"",;":':'onrvduringperiodswhentheM,risoperating) I observation:I Diversion Ditch I Diversion Ditch 2 Diversion Ditch 3 Diversion Berm 2 Diversion Ditches: I Sloughing yes-no -yes-no -yes noI Erosion _yes_no _yes_no yes_no Undesirable _yes_no _yes_no _yes_noI Vesetation I ooitrucuon or Frow -yes-no -yes-no -yes-noI Diversion Berm: I s"u,ltt)'I.tr* -yes-no Signs of Distress _yes_no I Comments: 3. Summary of Activities Around Sedimentation Pond: I t I I t I White Mesa Mill - Standard Operating Procedures Book I l: Environmental Protection Manual, Section 3.1 4. Overspray Dust Minimization: Oversorav svstem functionins orooerlv: ves no Overspray carried more than 50 feet from the cell: _yes_no If "yes", was system immediately shut off? -yes-no 9J2lOg Revision: Denison4Z Page32 of 45 Comments: t I I I I I I I I I I I 5. Remarks: 6. Settlement Monitors Cell2 Wl: Cell2W2: Cell2 W3: Cell2 W4: Cell2WT-C: Cell2 W7N: Cell2 W6C: Cell4A-Toe: Cell3-2C: Cell2W3-S: Cell2El-N: Cell2El-lS: Cell2El-2S: Cell2 East: Cell2 W7S: Cell2 W6S: Cell2 W4S: Cell3-2S: Cell3-lN: Cell3-lC: Cell3-lS: Cell3-2N: Cell2W5-N: Cell2 W6N: Cell2 W4N: Cell2 W5C:t I I t I I I 7. Summary of Daily, Weekly and Quarterly Inspections: 8. Monthly Slimes Drain Static Head Measurement for Cell2 (Depth-in-Pipe Water Level Reading): I I I Wnit" Mesa Mill - Standard Operating ProceduresI Book I l: Environmental Protection Manual, Section 3.1 I I t I Inspector: APPENDTX A (CONT.) WHITE MESA IVtrLL TAILINGS MANAGEMENT SYSTEM QUARTERLY INSPECTION DATA 912108 Revision: Denison6f Page 33 of45 I Date: 1. Embankment Inspection:I I I 2. Operations/lVlaintenance Review: 3. Construction Activites: I I I T I 4. summary: T I I I I t I I I I I I I Wt it" Mesa Mill - Standard Operating Procedures Book l1: Environmental Protection Manual, Section 3.1 9J2108 Revision: Denison4T Page 34 of 45 APPENDIX A (CONT.) ORE STORAGE/SAMPLE PLANT WEEKLY INSPECTION REPORT Week of _ through Date of Inspection: Inspector: Weather conditions for the week: Blowing dust conditions for the week: In, I t Are all bulk feedstock materials stored in the area indicated on the attached diagram:ves: no: I comments: I I Are all altemate feedstock materials located outside the area indicated on the attached diagram maintained within water-tight containers : ves: no: comments (e.g., conditions of containers): I Conditions of storage areas for materials: I I Othercomments: I I I t I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I White Mesa Mill - Standard Operating Procedures Book I l: Environmental Protection Manual, Section 3.1 912108 Revision: Denison6f Page 35 of45 APPENDIX B TAILINGS INSPECTOR TRAINING This document provides the training necessary for qualifying management-designated individuals for conducting daily tailings inspections. Training information is presented by the Radiation Safety Officer or designee from the Environmental Department. Daily tailings inspections are conducted in accordance with the White Mesa Mill Tailings Management System and Discharge Minimization Technology (DMT) Monitoring Plan. The Radiation Safety Officer or designee from the Radiation Safety Department is responsible for performing monthly and quarterly tailings inspections. Tailings inspection forms will be included in the monthly tailings inspection reports, which summarize the conditions, activities, and areas ofconcern regarding the tailings areas. Notifications: The inspector is required to record whether all inspection items are normal (satisfactory, requiring no action) or that conditions of potential concem exist (requiring action). A "check" mark indicates no action required. If conditions of potential concern exist the inspector should mark an "X" in the area the condition pertains to, note the condition, and specify the corrective action to be taken. If an observable concern is made, it should be noted on the tailings report until the corrective action is taken and the concern is remedied. The dates of all corrective actions should be noted on the reports as well. Any major catastrophic events or conditions pertaining to the tailings area should be reported immediately to the Mill Manager or the Radiation Safety Officer, one of whom will notify Corporate Management. If dam failure occurs, notify your supervisor and the Mill Manager immediately. The Mill Manager will then notify Corporate Management, MSHA (303-23t-5465), and the State of Utah, Division of Dam Safety (801-538-7200). Inspections: All areas of the tailings disposal system are routinely patrolled and visible observations are to be noted on a daily tailings inspection form. Refer to Appendix A for an example of the daily tailings inspection form. The inspection form consists of three pages and is summarized as follows: Tailings Slurry Transport System: The slurry pipeline is to be inspected for leaks, damage, and sharp bends. The pipeline joints are to be monitored for leaks, and loose connections. The pipeline supports are to be 3. I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I T I I I I Wtrite Mesa Mill - Standard Operating Procedures Book I l: Environmental Protection Manual, Section 3.1 912108 Revision: Denison4Z Page 36 of45 inspected for damage and loss of support. Valves are also to be inspected particularly for leaks, blocked valves, and closed valves. Points of discharge need to be inspected for improper location and orientation. 2. Operational Systems: Operating systems including water levels, beach liners, and covered areas are items to be inspected and noted on the daily inspection forms. Sudden changes in water levels previously observed or water levels exceeding the operating level of a pond are potential areas ofconcern and should be noted. Beach areas that are observed as having cracks, severe erosion or cavities are also items that require investigation and notation on daily forms. Exposed liner or absence of cover from erosion are potential items of concern for ponds and covered areas. These should also be noted on the daily inspection form. Cells 1, 3 and 4,A. solution levels are to be monitored closely for conditions nearing maximum operating level and for large changes in the water level since the last inspection. All pumping activities affecting the water level will be documented. In Cells I and 3, the PVC liner needs to be monitored closely for exposed liner, especially after storm events. It is important to cover exposed liner immediately as exposure to sunlight will cause degradation of the PVC liner. Small areas of exposed liner should be covered by hand. Large sections of exposed liner will require the use of heavy equipment These conditions are considered serious and require immediate action. After these conditions have been noted to the Radiation Safety Officer, a work order will be written by the Radiation Safety Officer and turned into the Maintenance Department. All such repairs should be noted in the report and should contain the start and finish date of the repairs. Dikes and Embankments: Inspection items include the slopes and the crests of each dike. For slopes, areas of concern are sloughs or sliding cracks, bulges, subsidence, severe erosion, moist areas, and areas of seepage outbreak. For crests, areas ofconcern are cracks, subsidence, and severe erosion. When any of these conditions are noted, an "X" mark should be placed in the section marked for that dike. In addition, the dikes, in particular dikes 3, 4A-S and 4A-W, should be inspected closely for mice holes and more importantly for prairie dog holes, as the prairie dogs are likely to burrow in deep, possibly to the liner. If any of these conditions exist, the inspection report should be marked accordingly. FIow Rates:4. 5. 6. 7. 8. I I I t I I I I t I I I I I I T I I I White Mesa Mill - Standard Operating Procedures Book I l: Environmental Protection Manual, Section 3.1 912108 Revision : Denison62 Page 37 of45 Presence of all flows in and out of the cells should be noted. Flow rates are to be estimated in gallons per minute (GPM). Rates need to be determined for slurry lines, pond return, SX- tails, and the spray system. During non-operational modes, the flow rate column should be marked as "0". The same holds true when the spray system is not utilized. Physical Inspection of Slurry Line(s): A physical inspection of all slurry lines has to be made every4 hours during operation of the mill. If possible, the inspection should include observation of the entire discharge line and discharge spill point into the cell. If "flll to elevation" flags are in place, the tailings and build-up is to be monitored and controlled so as to not cover the flags. Dust Control: Dusting and wind movement of tailings should be noted for Cells 2,3, and 4A. Other observations to be noted include a brief description of present weather conditions, and a record of any precipitation received. Any dusting or wind movement of tailings should be documented. In addition, an estimate should be made for wind speed at the time of the observed dusting or wind movement of tailings. The Radiation Safety Department measures precipitation on a daily basis. Daily measurements should be made as near to 8:00 a.m. as possible every day. Weekend measurements will be taken by the Shifter as close to 8:00 a.m. as possible. All snow or ice should be melted before a reading is taken. Observations of Potential Concern: All observations of concern during the inspection should be noted in this section. Corrective action should follow each area of concern noted. All work orders issued, contacts, or notifications made should be noted in this section as well. It is important to document all these items in order to assure that the tailings management system records are complete and accurate. Map of Tailings Cells: The last section of the inspection involves drawing, as accurately as possible, the following items where applicable. 1. Cover area 2. Beach/tailing sands area 3. Solution as it exists 4. Pump lines 9. I I I I I t I I I I I I I I I t I I I White Mesa Mill - Standard Operating Procedures Book I I : Environmental Protection Manual, Section 3.1 912 108 Revision: Denison6Z Page 38 of45 5. Activities around tailings cell (i.e. hauling trash to the dump, liner repairs, etc.)6. Slurry discharge when operating 7. Over spray system when operating Safety Rules: All safety rules applicable to the mill are applicable when in the tailings area. These rules meet the required MSHA regulations for the tailings area. Please pay particular notice to the following rules: 1. The posted speed limit for the tailings area is 15 mph and should not be exceeded. 2. No food or drink is permitted in the area. 3. All personnel entering the tailings area must have access to a two-way radio.4. Horseplay is not permitted at any time. 5. Only those specifically authorized may operate motor vehicles in the restricted area.6. When road conditions are muddy or slick, a four-wheel drive vehicle is required in the area. 7. Any work performed in which there is a danger of falling or slipping in the cell will require the use of a safety belt or harness with attended life line and an approved life jacket. A portable eyewash must be present on site as well. 8. Anytime the boat is used to perform any work; an approved life jacket and goggles must be worn at all times. There must also be an approved safety watch with a two-way hand- held radio on shore. A portable eyewash must be present on site as well. Preservation of Wildlife: Every effort should be made to prevent wildlife and domesticated animals from entering the tailings area. All wildlife observed should be reported on the Wildlife Report Worksheet during each shift. Waterfowl seen near the tailings cells should be discouraged from Ianding by the use of noisemakers. Certification: Following the review of this document and on-site instruction on the tailings system inspection program, designated individuals will be certified to perform daily tailings inspections. The Radiation Safety Officer authorizes certification. Refer to the Certification Form, Appendix C. This form should be signed and dated only after a thorough review of the tailings information previously presented. The form will then be signed by the Radiation Safety Officer and filed. 10. 11. I I I Wnit" Mesa Mitl - Standard Operating ProceduresI Book I l: Environmental Protection Manual, Section 3.1 I I I Date: 9)2108 Revision : Denison6Z Page 39 of 45 APPENDIX C CERTIFICATION FORM I Name: I have read the document titled "Tailings Management System, White Mesa Mill Tailings I lnspector Training" and have received on-site instruction at the tailings system. This instruction f included documentation of daily tailings inspections, analysis of potential problems (dike failures, unusual flows), notification procedures and safety. I t I I certify that the above-named person is qualified to perform the daily inspection of the tailings I systern at the White Mesa Mill. Signature Radiation Safety Personnel/ Tailings System Supervisor I t T I I I I I I I I Wnit" Mesa Mill - Standard Operating Procedures gl2l[sRevision: Denison€f Book I l: Environmental Protection Manual, Section 3.1 Page 40 of 45 I APPEND* D I FEEDSTOCK STORAGE AREA I t I I t I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I Wt it" Mesa Mill - Standard Operating Procedures Book I l: Environmental Protection Manual, Section 3.1 91708 Revision: Denison42 Page4l of45 APPENDD( E TABLES I I I wnit" Mesa Mill - Standard operating Procedures g)Z[SRevision: Denison6Z - Book I l: Environmental Protection Manual, Section 3.1 Page 42 of 45 I I t I I I I I ll I I I I I I t I Table I Calculated Action leakage Rates for Various head Conditions Cell44. White mesa Mill Blanding, Utah Head above Liner System (feet)Calculated Action leakage Rate ( sallons I acre / dav ) 5 222.04 10 314.0r 15 384.58 20 444.08 25 496.50 30 543.88 35 587.46 37 604.01 White Mesa Mill - Standard Operating Procedures 912108 Revision: Denison6Z Book I I : Environmental Protection Manual, Section 3. I Page 43 of 45 APPENDIX F Example of Freeboard Calculations For Cell4A Assumptions and Factors: o Total PMP volume to be stored in Cell 4A - 159.4 acre feeto Wave runup factor for Cell44. - 0.77 feeto Total capacity of Cell 4A - 2.094.000 dry tonso Elevation of FML of Cell4,{ - 5.598.5 FMSLo Maximum oool surface area of Cell 4,{ - 40 acreso Total tailings solids deposited into Cell 4A at time beach area first exceeds 5.593 FMSL - 1.000.000 drv tons*o Date beach area first exceeds 5.593. FMSL - March 1. 2009xo Expected and actual production is as set forth in the following table: Time Period Expected Tailines Solids Disposition intoCell 4A Determined at the beeinnine of the period (drv tons)* Expected Tailines Solids Dispositio n into Cell 4A at the beeinnins of the Deriod. multiplied bv l50%o Safetv Factor (drv tons) Actual Tailines Solids Disposition intoCell 4A determined atend of theperiod (drv tons)* March l. 2009 to November l. 2009 150.000 225.ON 225.OOO November l.2009 to November l. 20ro 300.000 450.000 275.O40 November 1.2010 to November l. 2011 200.000 300.000 250.000 White Mesa Mill - Sundard Operating Procedures Book I l: Environmental Protection Manual, Section 3.1 9)2108 Revision: Denison6Z Page 44 of 45 *These expected and actual tailings and production numbers and dates are fictional andhave been assumed for illustrative purposes only. Based on these assumptions and factors. the freeboard limits for Cell 4A would be calculated as follows: 1. Prior to March l. 2009 Prior to March l. 2009. the maximum elevation of the beach area in Cell 4 is less than or equal to 5.593 FMSL. therefore the freeboard limit is set at 5.593.7 FMSL. 2. March 1.2009 to November 1. 2009 The pool surface area would be reduced to the following amount ( I - 225.000./ (2.094.000 - I .000.000)) x 40 acres = 31.77 acres Based on this reduced pool area. the amount of freeboard would be 159.4 acre feet divided by 3 I .77 acres equals 5.02 feet. When the wave run up factor for Cell 4A of 0.77 feet is added to this. the total freeboard required is 5.79 feet. This means that the freeboard limit for Cell4,A, would be reduced from 5593.7 FMSL to 5592.7 FMSL (5598.5 FMSL minus 5.79 feet. rounded to the nearest one- tenth of a foot). This calculation would be performed at March l. 2009. and this freeboard limit would persist until November l. 2009. 3. November l. 2009 to November 1. 2010 The pool surface area would be reduced to the following amount: First. recalculate the pool surface area that should have applied during the previous period. had modeled tonnages (i.e.. expected tonnages grossed upbythe 1507o safetyfactor) equaled actual tonnages for the period. Since the actual tonnaee of 225.000 dry tons was the same as the modeled tonnage of 225.000 dry tons. the recalculated pool surface area is the same as the modeled pool surface area for the previous period. which is 31.77 acres. Then. calculate the modeled pool surface area to be used for the period: (l - 450.000/ (2.094.000 - 1.000.000 - 225.000)) x 31.77 acres = 15.32 acres Based on this reduced pool area. the amount of freeboard would be 159.4 acre feet divided by 15.32 acres equals 10.40 feet. When the wave run uo factor for Cell4A of 0.77 feet is added to this. the total freeboard required is I I . 17 feet. This means that the freeboard limit for Cell 4A would be reduced from 5592.7 FMSL to 5587.3 FMSL (5598.5 FMSL minus I l.17 feet. rounded to the nearest one-tenth of a foot). This calculation would be performed at November l. 2009. and this freeboard limit would persist until November 1.2010. White Mesa Mill - Standard Operating Procedures Book I l: Environmental Protection Manual, Section 3.1 912108 Revision: Denison6Z Page 45 of45 4. November l. 2010 to November l. 2011 The pool surface area would be reduced to the following amount: First. recalculate the pool surface area that should have applied during the previous period. had modeled tonnages (i.e.. expected tonnages grossed up by the 1507o safety factor) equaled actual tonnages for the period. Since modeled tonnages exceeded actual tonnages. the pool area was reduced too much during the previous period. and must be adjusted. The recalculated pool area for the previous period is: (l -275.000/ (2.094.000 - 1.000.000 - 225.000) x 31.77 acres = 21.72 acres. This recalculated oool surface area will be used as the starting point for the freeboard calculation to be performed at November 1. 2010. Then. calculate the modeled pool surface area to be used for the period: Based on this reduced pool area. the amount of freeboard would be 159.4 acre feet divided b), 10.75 acres equals 14.83 feet. When the wave run up factor for Cell4,A, of 0.77 feet is added tothis.thetotalfreeboardrequiredis 15.60feet. ThismeansthatthefreeboardlimitforCell 44. would be reduced from 5587.3 FMSL to 5582.9 FMSL (5598.5 FMSL minus 15.60 feet. rounded to the nearest one-tenth of a foot). This calculation would be performed at November 1. 2010. and this freeboard limit would persist until November l. 201l. EEofgx t1 t I t I t I I t p I I I I I T LI I I I I T I I I I T I I I I t I I I T I 09Ul08 Revision Denison 1.3{ APPENDIX C Cell4A BAT Monitoring, Operations and Maintenance Plan Introduction Construction of Cell 4A was authorized by the Utah Department of Environmental Quality, Division of Radiation Control ("DRC) on June 25,2OO7. The construction authorization provided that Cell44, shall not be in operation until after a BAT Monitoring, Operations and Maintenance Plan is submitted for Executive Secretary review and approval. The Plan shall include requirements in Pan F.3 of the Groundwater Discharge Permit No. UGW37AAO4 ("GWDP") and full fill the requirements of Parts I.D.6, I.E.8, and I.F.S of the GWDP. Cell Desien Tailings Cell 4A consists of the following major elements: a) Dikes - consisting of earthen embankments of compacted soil, constructed between 1989-1990, and composed of four dikes, each including a l5-foot wide road at the top (minimum). On the north, east, and south margins these dikes have slopes of 3H to lV. The west dike has a interior slope of 2H to lV. Width of these dikes varies; each has a minimum crest width of at least 15 feet to support an access road. Base width also varies from 89-feet on the east dike (with no exterior embankment), to 21l-feet at the west dike. b) Foundation - including subgrade soils over bedrock materials. Foundation preparation included excavation and removal of contaminated soils, compaction of imported soils to a maximum dry density of 9O7o. Floor of Cell 44, has an average slope of l7o that grades from the northeast to the southwest corners. c) Tailings Capacity - the floor and inside slopes of Cell 4^A encompass about 40 acres and have a maximum capacity of about 1.6 million cubic yards of tailings material storage (as measured below the required 3-foot freeboard). d) Liner and lrak Detection Systems - including the following layers, in descending order: 1) Primary Flexible Membrane Liner (FML) - consisting of impermeable 60 mil high density polyethylene (HDPE) membrane that extends across both the entire cell floor and the inside side-slopes, and is anchored in a trench at the top of the dikes on all four sides. The primary FML will be in direct physical contact with the tailings material over most of the Cell 44. floor Page I I T I I I T I I I I I I I I I T I T I Wl2lOB Revision Denison 1.3{ In other locations, the primary FML will be in contact with the drain collection system (discussed below). Page2 I T I I I T I I I t I I T I I t I I I Cell 4,{ BAT Monitoring, Operations and Maintenance Plan 09/08 Revision Denison 1.3 2) Leak Detection System - includes a permeable HDPE geonet fabric that extends across the entire area under the primary FML in Cell 4,{, and drains to a leak detection sump in the southwest corner. Access to the leak detection sump is via an l8-inch inside diameter (ID) PVC pipe placed down the inside slope, located between the primary and secondary FML liners. At its base this pipe will be surrounded with a gravel filter set in the leak detection sump, having dimensions of 10 feet by 10 feet by 2 feet deep. In turn, the gravel filter layer will be enclosed in an envelope of geotextile fabric. The purpose of both the gravel and geotextile fabric is to serve as a filter. 3) Secondary FML - consisting of an impermeable 60-mil HDPE membrane found immediately below the leak detection geonet. Said FML also extends across the entire Cell 4,A. floor, up the inside side-slopes and is also anchored in a trench at the top of all four dikes. 4) Geosynthetic Clay Liner - consisting of a manufactured geosynthetic clay liner (GCL) composed of 0.2-inch of low permeability bentonite clay centered and stitched between two layers of geotextile. Prior to disposal of any wastewater in Cell 4A, the Permittee shall demonstrate that the GCL has achieved a moisture content of at least 50Vo by weight. This item is a revised requirement per DRC letter to DUSA dated September 29,2007 e) Slimes Drain Collection System - including a two-part system of strip drains and perforated collection pipes both installed immediately above the primary FML, as follows: 1) Horizontal Strip Drain System - is installed in a heningbone pattern across the floor of Cell 4A that drain to a "backbone" of perforated collection pipes. These strip drains are made of a prefabricated two-part geo-composite drain material (solid polymer drainage strip) core surrounded by an envelope of non-woven geotextile filter fabric. The strip drains are placed immediately over the primary FML on 50-foot centers, where they conduct fluids downgradient in a southwesterly direction to a physical and hydraulic connection to the perforated slimes drain collection pipe. A series of continuous sand bags, filled with filter sand cover the strip drains. The sand bags are composed of a woven polyester fabric filled with well graded filter sand to protect the drainage system from plugging. 2) Horizontal Slimes Drain Collection Pipe System - includes a "backbone" piping system of 4-inch ID Schedule 40 perforated PVC slimes drain collection (SDC) pipe found at the downgradient end of the strip drain lines. This pipe is in turn overlain by a berm of gravel that runs the entire diagonal length of the cell, surrounded by a geotextile fabric cushion in immediate contact with the primary FML. [n turn, the gravel is overlain Page 3 Cell 44, BAT Monitoring, Operations and Maintenance Plan 09/08 Revision Denison 1.3 s) I I T I T I I t I I I T I I T I I I by a layer of non-woven geotextile to serve as an additional filter material. This perforated collection pipe serves as the "backbone" to the slimes drain system and runs from the far northeast corner downhill to the far southwest corner of Cell 44, where it joins the slimes drain access pipe. 3) Slimes Drain Access Pipe - consisting of an lS-inch ID Schedule 40 PVC pipe placed down the inside slope of Cell 4,4, at the southwest corner, above the primary FML. Said pipe then merges with another horizontal pipe of equivalent diameter and material, where it is enveloped by gravel and woven geotextile that serves as a cushion to protect the primary FML. A reducer connects the horizontal lS-inch pipe with the 4-inch SDC pipe. At some future time, a pump will be set in this l8-inch pipe and used to remove tailings wastewaters for purposes of de-watering the tailings cell. Dike Splash Pads - A minimum of eight (8) l0-foot wide splash pads are installed on the interior dike slopes to protect the primary FML from abrasion and scouring by tailings slurry. These pads will consist of an extra layer of 60 mil HDPE membrane that will be placed down the inside slope of Cell 4A,, from the top of the dike and down the inside slope. The pads on the north side of the Cell will extend to a point 5-feet beyond the toe of the slope to protect the liner bottom during initial startup of the Cell. The exact location of the splash pads is detailed on the As-Built Plans and Specifications. Emergency Spillway - a concrete lined spillway constructed near the western corner of the north dike to allow emergency runoff from Cell 3 into Cell 4,{. This spillway will be limited to a 6-inch reinforced concrete slab set directly over the primary FML in a 4-foot deep trapezoidal channel. No other spillway or overflow structure will be constructed at Cell 44. All stormwater runoff and tailings wastewaters not retained in Cells 2 and 3, will be managed and contained in Cell 44, including the Probable Maximum Precipitation and flood event. Cell Ooeration Solution Discharge Cell 4A will initially be used for storage and evaporation of process solutions from the Mill operations. These process solutions will be from the uranium/vanadium solvent extraction circuit, or transferred from Cell 1 evaporation pond or the free water surface from Cell 3. The solution will be pumped to Cell4,A. through 6 inch or 8 inch diameter HDPE pipelines. The initial solution discharge will be in the southwest corner of the Cell. The discharge pipe will be routed down the Splash Pad provided in the corner of the Cell to protect the pipeline running from the solution reclaim barge. The solution will be discharged in the bottom of the Cell, away from any sand bags or other installation on the top of the FML. Building the solution pool from the low end of the Cell will allow the solution pool to gradually rise around the slimes drain Page 4 I I I I I t I I I I I I I I I I I t I Cell 4A BAT Monitoring, Operations and Maintenance Plan 09/08 Revision Denison 1.3 strips, eliminating any damage to the strip drains or the sand bag cover due to solution flowing past the drainage strips. The solution will eventually be discharged along the dike between Cell 3 and Cell 4A,, utilizing the Splash Pads described above. The subsequent discharge of process solutions will be near the floor of the pond, through a discharge header designed to discharge through multiple points, thereby reducing the potential to damage the Splash Pads or the Slimes Drain system. At no time will the solution be discharged into less than 2 feet of solution. As the cell begin to fill with solution the discharge point will be pull back up the Splash Pad and allowed to continue discharging at or near the solution level. Initial Solids Discharge Once Cell 44. is needed for storage for tailings solids the slurry discharge from No. 8 CCD thickener will be pumped to the cell through 6 inch or 8 inch diameter HDPE pipelines. The pipelines will be routed along the dike between Cell 3 and Cell4,A', with discharge valves and drop pipes extending down the Splash Pads to the solution level. One or all of the discharge points can be used depending on operational considerations. Solids will settle into a cone, or mound, of material under the solution level, with the courser fraction settling out closer to the discharge point. The initial discharge locations are shown on Figure 1. Figure 2 illustrates the general location of the solution and slurry discharge pipelines and control valve locations. The valves are 6" or 8" stainless steel knife-gate valves. The initial discharge of slurry will be at or near the toe of the Cell slope and then gradually moved up the slope, continuing to discharge at or near the water surface. This is illustrated in Section A-A on Figure 2. Because of the depth of Cell 4A, each of the discharge points will be utilized for an extended period of time before the cone of material is above the maximum level of the solution. The discharge location will then moved further to the interior of the cell allowing for additional volume of solids to be placed under the solution level. The solution level in the cell will vary depending on the operating schedule of the Mill and the seasonal evaporation rates. The tailings slurry will not be allowed to discharge directly on to the Splash Pads, in order to further protect the FML. The tailings slurry will discharge directly in to the solution contained in the Cell, onto an additional protective sheet, or on to previously deposited tailings sand. Equipment Access Access will be restricted to the interior portion of the cell due to the potential to damage the flexible membrane liner. Only rubber tired all temain vehicles or foot traffic will be allowed on the flexible membrane liner. Personnel are also cautioned on the potential damage to the flexible membrane liner through the use and handling of hand tools and maintenance materials. Reclaim Water Svstem Page 5 I I T t I T I I t I t I I t I T I I I I Cett 4A BAT Monitoring, Operations and Maintenance Plan I 09/08 Revision Denison 1.3 A pump barge and solution recovery system will be installed in the southwest corner of the cell to pump solution from the cell for water balance purposes or for re-use in the Mill process. Figure 3 illustrates the routing of the solution return pipeline and the location of the pump barge. The pump barge will be constructed and maintained to ensure that the flexible membrane liner is not damaged during the initial filling of the cell or subsequent operation and maintenance activities. The condition of the pump barge and access walkway will be noted during the weekly Cell inspections. Interim Solids Discharge Figure 4 illustrates the progression of the slurry discharge points around the east side of Cell 4A. Once the tailings solids have been deposited along the north and east sides of the Cell, the discharges points will subsequently be moved to the sand beaches, which will eliminate any potential for damage to the liner system. Liner Maintenance and OA/OC Any construction defects or operational damage discovered during observation of the flexible membrane liner will be repaired, tested and documented according to the procedures detailed in the approved Revised construction Quality Assurance Plan for the Construction of the Cell 4A Lining System, May 2007, by GeoSyntec Consultants. BAT Performance Standards for Tailinss Cell4A DUSA will operate and maintain Tailings Cell 4,A. so as to prevent release of wastewater to groundwater and the environment in accordance with this BAT Monitoring Operations and Maintenance Plan, pursuant to Part I.H.19 of the GWDP. These performance standards shall include: 1) lrak Detection System Pumping and Monitoring Equipment - the leak detection system pumping and monitoring equipment, includes a submersible pump, pump controller, water level indicator (head monitoring), and flow meter with volume totalizer. The pump controller is set to maintain the maximum level in the leak detection system at no more than I foot above the lowest level of the secondary flexible menbrane. A second leak detection pump with pressure transducer, flow meter, and manufacturer recommended spare parts for the pump controller and water level data collector is maintained in the Mill warehouse to ensure that the pump and controller can be replaced and operational within 24 hours of detection of a failure of the pumping system. The root cause of the equipment failure will be documented in a report to Mill management with recommendations for prevention of a re-occurrence. Page 6 I I I I I I I I t I I I t I I t I I t Cell 4A BAT Monitoring, Operations and Maintenance Plan 09/08 Revision Denison 1.3 Maximum Allowable Head - the Permittee shall measure the fluid head above the lowest point on the secondary flexible membrane by the use of procedures and equipment specified in the White Mesa Mill Tailings Management System and Discharge Minimization Technology (DMT) monitoring Plan, 3l+7W. Revision : Denison 32..(!hg "DMT Plan"), or the currently approved DMT Plan. Under no circumstance shall fluid head in the leak detection system sump exceed a 1-foot level above the lowest point in the lower flexible membrane liner. Maximum Allowable Daily LDS Flow Rates - the Permittee shall measure the volume of all fluids pumped from the LDS on a weekly basis, and use that information to calculate an average volume pumped per day. Under no circumstances shall the daily LDS flow volume exceed 24,160 gallons/day. The maximum daily LDS flow volume will be compared against the measured cell solution levels detailed on the attached Table 1 to determine the maximum daily allowable LDS flow volume for varying head conditions in the cell. . 3-foot Minimum Vertical Freeboard Criteria - the Permittee shall operate and maintain wastewater levels to provide a 3-foot Minimum of vertical freeboard in Tailings Cell4A. Said measurements shall be made to the nearest 0.1 foot. Slimes Drain Recovery Head Monitoring - immediately after the Permittee initiates pumping conditions in the Tailings Cell 44. slimes drain system, monthly recovery head tests and fluid level measurements will be made in accordance with a plan approved by the DRC Executive Secretary. The slimes drain system will pumping and monitoring equipment, includes a submersible pump, pump controller, water level indicator (head monitoring), and flow meter with volume totalizer. Routine Maintenance and Monitorine Trained personnel inspect the White Mesa tailings system on a once per day basis. Any abnormal occurrences or changes in the system will be immediately reported to Mill management and maintenance personnel. The inspectors are trained to look for events involving the routine placement of tailings material as well as events that could affect the integrity of the tailings cell dikes or lining systems. The daily inspection reports are summarized on a monthly basis and reviewed and signed by the Mill Manager. Solution Elevation Measurements of solution elevation in Cell 4A are to be taken by survey on a weekl y b as i s"as-f,elle+wi 2) 3) 4) s) PageT Cell 4A BAT Monitoring, Operations and Maintenance Plan 09/08 Revision Denison 1.3 @. and measurements of the beach area in Cell4A with the tns*ument") aeeurat @ rcvefftnnsl-I the applieable Referenee Peirt and pend surfaee are visible. Fer €ell4r\; (9eree i+leeatien; the Surveyer will ensure that the Survey krstrument is a-leYefreagingi is where the ^ide slepe dlews fer safe aeee's te the selutier surfaee, the Strrrrc:'Red is vertieal by gently reeld'rg the red baek and fe*h until in& is Page 8 I T I T I I I I I I t I I I I I I T I Cell 4A BAT Monitoring, Operations and Maintenance Plan 09/08 Revision Denison 1.3 elevation@in ffiare to be taken by survey on a monthly basis. by the use of the procedures and equipment specified in Section 3.1 of the DMT Plan. Leak Detection System The Lrak detection system is monitored on a continuous basis by use of a pressure transducer that feeds water level information to an electronic data collector. The water levels are measured every hour and the information is stored for later retrieval. The water levels are measured to the nearest 0.10 inch. The data collector is currently programmed to store 7 days of water level information. The number of days of stored data can be increased beyond 7 days if needed. The water level data is downloaded to a laptop computer on a weekly basis and incorporated into the Mill's environmental monitoring data base, and into the files for weekly inspection reports of the tailings cell leak detection systems. Within 24 hours after collection of the weekly water level data, the information will be evaluated to ensure that: 1) the water level in the leak detection sump did not exceed the allowable level (5556.14 feet amsl), and2) the average daily flow rate from the LDS did not exceed the maximum daily allowable flow rate at any time during the reporting period. For Cell 4,{, under no circumstance shall fluid head in the leak detection system sump exceed a l-foot level above the lowest point in the lower flexible membrane liner. To determine the Maximum Allowable Daily LDS Flow Rates in the Cell 4A leak detection system, the total volume of all fluids pumped from the LDS on a weekly basis shall be recovered from the data collector, and that information will be used to calculate an average volume pumped per day. Under no circumstances shall the daily LDS flow volume exceed 24,160 gallons/day. The maximum daily LDS flow volume will be compared against the measured cell solution levels detailed on the attached Table 1, to determine the maximum daily allowable LDS flow volume for varying head conditions in Cell 4,\. Any abnormal or out of compliance water levels must be immediately reported to Mill management. The data collector is also equipped with an audible alarm that sounds if the water level in the leak detection sump exceeds the allowable level (5556.14 feet amsl). The current water level is displayed at all times on the data collector and available for recording on the daily inspection form. The leak detection system is also equipped with a leak detection pump, EPS Model # 25505-3 stainless steel, or equal. The pump is capable of pumping in excess of 25 gallons per minute at a total dynamic head of 50 feet. The pump has a 1.5 inch diameter discharge, and operates on 460 volt 3 phase power. The pump is equipped with a pressure sensing Page 9 I I I I t t t I I I t I I I t I I I I Cell 4A BAT Monitoring, Operations and Maintenance Plan 09/08 Revision Denison 1.3 transducer to start the pump once the level of solution in the leak detection sump is approximately 2.25 feet (elevation 5555.89) above the lowest level of the leak detection sump (9 inches above the lowest point on the lower flexible membrane liner, to ensure the allowable 1.0 foot (5556.14 feet amsl) above the lowest point on the lower flexible membrane liner is not exceeded). The attached Figure 6, Leak Detection Sump Operating Elevations, illustrates the relationship between the sump elevation, the lowest point on the lower flexible membrane liner and the pump-on solution elevation for the leak detection pump. The pump also has manual start and stop controls. The pump will operate until the solution is drawn down to the lowest level possible, expected to be approximately 4 inches above the lowest level of the sump (approximate elevation 5554.0). The pump discharge is equipped with a 1.5 inch flow meter, EPS Paddle Wheel Flowsensor, or equal, that reads the pump discharge in gallons per minute, and records total gallons pumped. The flow rate and total gallons is recorded by the Inspector on the weekly inspection form. The leak detection pump is installed in the horizontal section of the 18 inch, horizontal, perforated section of the PVC collection pipe. The distance from the top flange face, at the collection pipe invert, to the centerline of the 22.5 degree elbow is 133.4 feet, and the vertical height is approximately 45 feet. The pump is installed at least 2 feet beyond the centerline of the elbow. The bottom of the pump will be installed in the leak detection sump at least 135.4 feet or more from the top of the flange invert. A pressure transducer installed with the pump continuously measures the solution head and is programmed to start and stop the pump within the ranges specified above. The attached Figure 5 illustrates the general configuration of the pump installation. A second leak detection pump with pressure transducer, flow meter, and manufacturer recofilmended spare parts for the pump controller and water level data collector will be maintained in the Mill warehouse to ensure that the pump and controller can be replaced and operational within 24 hours of detection of a failure of the pumping system. The root cause of the equipment failure will be documented in a report to Mill management with recommendations for prevention of a re-occurrence. Slimes Drain System (i) A pump, Tsurumi Model # KTZ23.7-62 stainless steel, or equal, will be placed inside of the slimes drain access riser pipe and a near as possible to the bottom of the slimes drain sump. The bottom of the slimes drain sump is 38 feet below a water level measuring point at the centerline of the slimes drain access pipe, near the ground surface level. The pump discharge will be equipped with a 2 inch flow meter,ElH Model #33, or Page 10 I t I t I T I I t I I I I t I T I I I Cell 44, BAT Monitoring, Operations and Maintenance Plan 09/08 Revision Denison 1.3 equal, that reads the pump discharge in gallons per minute, and records total gallons pumped. The flow rate and total gallons will be recorded by the Inspector on the weekly inspection form. (ii) The slimes drain pump will be on adjustable probes that allows the pump to be set to start and stop on intervals determined by Mill management. (iii)The Cell 4,A. slimes drain pump will be checked weekly to observe that it is operating and that the level probes are set properly, which is noted on the Weekly Tailings Inspection Form. If at any time the pump is observed to be not working properly, it will be repaired or replaced within 15 days; (iv)Depth to wastewater in the Cell 4A slimes drain access riser pipe shall be monitored and recorded weekly to determine maximum and minimum fluid head before and after a pumping cycle, respectively. All head measurements must be made from the same measuring point, to the nearest 0.01 foot. The results will be recorded as depth-in-pipe measurements on the Weekly Tailings Inspection Form; (v) On a monthly basis, the slimes drain pump will be turned off and the wastewater in the slimes drain access pipe will be allowed to stabilize for at least 90 hours. Once the water level has stabilized (based on no change in water level for three (3) successive readings taken no less than one (l) hour apart) the water level of the wastewater will be measured and recorded as a depth-in-pipe measurement on the Monthly Inspection Data form, by measuring the depth to water below the water level measuring point on the slimes drain access pipe; The slimes drain pump will not be operated until Mill management has determined that no additional process solutions will be discharged to Cell4A,, and the Cell has been partially covered with the first phase of the reclamation cap. The long term effectiveness and performance of the slimes drain dewatering will be evaluated on the same basis as the currently operating slimes drain system for Cell2. Tailinss Emersencies Inspectors will notify the Radiation Safety Officer and./or Mill management immediately if, during their inspection, they discover that an abnormal condition exists or an event has occurred that could cause a tailings emergency. Until relieved by the Environmental or Radiation Technician or Radiation Safety Officer, inspectors will have the authority to direct resources during tailings emergencies. Any major catastrophic events or conditions pertaining to the tailings area should be reported immediately to the Mill Manager or the Radiation Safety Officer, one of whom will notify Corporate Management. If dam failure occurs, notify your supervisor and the Mill Manager immediately. The Mill Manager will then notify Corporate Management, MSHA (303-231-5465), and the State of Utah, Division of Dam Safety (801-538-7200). Page ll I t I I I I t I I I I I I I I I I T I Cell 4,ar BAT Monitoring, Operations and Maintenance Plan 09/08 Revision Denison 1.3 Cell 4A Solution Freeboard Calculation The maximum tailings cell pond wastewater levels in Cells l{Sll4€elt3 and Cell44 are regulated by condition 10.3 of the White Mesa Mill 1le.(z) Materials License, periegiealty, in accordance with tleprocedures set out in the previeusly a-preved NRG lieerse apprieatien; ineluding the eebber 13; 1999 the DMT Plan. Condition 10.3 states that "The Freeboard limit for Cell I shall be 5615.4 feet above mean sea level. and the freeboard limit for Cell $Sshall be reeateula*a6g!! annually in accordance with the procedures set i ut in Section 6.3 of the White Mesa Mill Tailings Manaeement Svstem and Discharee Minimization Technoloev (DMT) Monitorins Plan. which is included as Section 3.1 of the Mill's Environmental Protection Prosram. Said calculations shall be submitted as part of the annual Technical Evaluation Reoort. Said report shall be submitted for Executive Secretarv approval no later than September 1. of each vear." The freeboard limits set out in Section 6.3 of the DMT Plan are intended to capture the Local6-hourProbableMaximumPrecipitation(PMP)event@ reqpi . which was determined in the January 10. 1990 Drainage Report for the White Mesa site irlo be l0 inches. Based on the PMP storm event, the freeboard requirement for Cell 1 is a maximum operating water level of 5615.4 feet above mean sea level (amsl). The Cell 1 freeboard limit is not affected by operations or conditions in Cells 2, 3 or 44. €el+Glb 2 hasand 3_have no freeboard limit because or near full of tailings solids and all precipitation falling on €ellCe[lE 2 and 3 and the adjacent drainage area must be contained in Cell % The flood volume from the PMP event over the Cell 2 and Cell 3 pond areas, plus the adjacent drainage areas, which must be contained in Cell4,A,. is 123.4 acre-feet of water.@ feerams# Page 12 Cell 4A BAT Monitoring, Operations and Maintenance Plan I T I I I t il I I I I T I I T I inte€ell4 The flood volume from the PMP event over the Cell 4,{ area is 36 acre-feet of water (40 acres, plus the adjacent drainage area of 3.25 acres, times the PMP of 10 inches). This would result in a total flood volume of 98159.11acre-feet, including thee!23A acre-feet of setutienwatef from@llr 2 anc! i€Fis calculating the freeboard limit for Cell44, is set out in Section 6.3 of the DMT Plan. The Groundwater Quality Discharge Permit, No. UGW370004, for the White Mesa Millrequiresthattheminimumfreeboardbenolessthan3.0feetfor@ eenstrnreti@!]slang!:[1\,butbasedon Section 6.3 of the DMT Plan. the freeboard limits for Cells I and 4A will be at least three feet. Figure 7, Hydraulic Profile Schematic, shows the relationship between the Cells, and the relative elevations of the solution pools and the spillway elevations. The required freeboard for Cell 4,A' will be recalculated annuallydeng with+h€{} . Page 13 I I T t T I I I T I ! I E I T I I I I Cell 4A BAT Monitoring, Operations and Maintenance Plan 09/08 Revision Denison Attachments Figure l, Initial Filling Plan, GeoSyntec Consultants Figure 2, Initial Filling Plan, Details and Sections, GeoSyntec Consultants Figure 3, Initial Filling Plan, Solution and Slury Pipeline Routes, GeoSyntec Consultants 4) Figure 4, lnterim Filling Plan, GeoSyntec Consultants 5) Figure 5, l€ak Detection System Sump, GeoSyntec Consultants 6) Figure 6, Leak Detection Sump Operating Elevations 7) Figure 7, Hydraulic Profile Schematic ienI98) Table 1, Calculated Action leakage Rates for Various Head Conditions, Cell44, White Mesa Mill, Blanding, Utah, GeoSyntec Consultants 'rc)9) White Mesa Mill Tailings Management System and Discharge Minimization Technology (DMT) Monitoring Plan, 3lUl)21O8 Revision: DUSA4#Z pagesZ, or currently approved version of the DMT 1) 2) 3) Page 14 I lo I I I I I I Ip I I I I I I I I I t lrJtfo IL dl El=l 5lsl pl1r)l (ElHl 8lEEeEr(u Fo=o.oPE g Bz EI EIcl slr,)l lilccil F-lO) ri3fi a)'FEEJJ ^ooxFE 'ioo(U 5o a)6 =