Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology

Biennial Report of Activities and Programs July 1, 2004–June 30, 2006

Compiled by the Staff of the Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology

Edmond G. Deal Director and State Geologist

Biennial Report of Activities and Programs, 2004–2006

Contents

Director’s Introduction ...... 1 Research Division Introduction ...... 3 Geologic Projects ...... 5 Geologic Mapping Program ...... 5 Stratigraphic Research ...... 7 Montana Sapphires ...... 8 Industrial Minerals of Montana ...... 9 Mineral Museum ...... 10 A Rock by Any Other Name: Understanding Lewis and Clark’s Geography, Geology and Navigation in Montana ...... 12 Montana Seismograph Network and Earthquake Studies Ofﬁ ce ...... 13 Mapping Potential Geologic Hazards from Radon in Montana Air and Ground Water for Environmental Public Health Tracking ...... 16 Mines and Mining Impacts ...... 17 Small Mine Operators Assistance Program ...... 17 Mineral Information and Statistics Program ...... 18 Post-Mine Reclamation Monitoring at the Comet, Alta, and Gregory Mines, Southwestern Montana ...... 19 Natural Resource Damage Assessment—Butte Area ...... 20 Abandoned and Inactive Mines Inventory and Preliminary Assessment ...... 22 Montana Pole Treatment Plant, Bioremediation of Soils, Environmental Monitoring, and Operation of Water Treatment Plant ...... 24 Belt, Montana, Acid Mine Drainage Problem: Development of a Three-Dimensional Geographic Information System Model and Baseline Monitoring ...... 26 Recharge Assessment of the Anaconda Mine near Belt, Montana ...... 28 Butte Mine Flooding Long-Term Monitoring Program ...... 29 Ground-Water Conditions and Special Studies ...... 31 Montana Ground-Water Monitoring Network ...... 31 Montana Ground-Water Information Center ...... 33 Middle Yellowstone River Area Ground-Water Characterization Study ...... 34 Lolo-Bitterroot Area Ground-Water Characterization Study ...... 36 Upper Clark Fork River Area Ground-Water Characterization Study ...... 38 Carbon-Stillwater Ground-Water Characterization Study ...... 39 Cascade-Teton Ground-Water Characterization Study ...... 40 Natural Resources Conservation Service Technical Data ...... 41 Yellowstone Controlled Ground-Water Area ...... 42 Big Hole Watershed Management Project ...... 44 Watershed and Ecosystems: Learning in a Backyard Classroom ...... 45 Salinity Risk Model for the Bullhead Valley Method and Results for Integrating Sustainable Agriculture with Water-Quality Protection ...... 46 Helena Valley Ground Water: Pharmaceuticals, Personal Care Products, Endocrine Disruptors, and Microbial Indicators of Fecal Contamination...... 47 Water-Quality Monitoring in the Big Muddy Watershed, Sheridan County, Montana ..... 48 Rehabilitating Flowing Wells in the Big Spring Watershed, Fergus County ...... 49

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Irrigation Potential of Ground Water Underlying the Lower Yellowstone Valley in Richland County ...... 50 Meadowlark Park Wetlands Hydrogeology ...... 51 Sheridan County Aquifer and Surface-Water Monitoring and Modeling ...... 52 Ground-Water Flow Modeling of Saline Seep Highwood Bench ...... 53 Impacts of Oilﬁ eld Wastes on Natural Resources ...... 55 Improving Soil Productivity and Water Quality in South-Central Montana through Land-Use Changes ...... 56 Developing a Viable Water Supply for the Town of Broadview, South-Central Montana ...... 57 Long-Term Monitoring and Data Collection, Streamside Tailings Operable Unit ...... 58 Expansion of the Monitoring Well Network for the Assessment of Agricultural Chemicals in Montana Ground Water ...... 59 Hydrogeology of the North Hills, Helena, Montana ...... 60 Impacts of Non-Point Source Pollution to Water Resources in the Paradise Valley ...... 61 Phase I Non-Point Source Pollution Assessment of the Alluvial Valleys of Stillwater County ...... 62 Critical Resource Assessment, Alluvial Aquifers of Northern Big Horn County ...... 63 Coal Resources, Hydrology, and Methane ...... 65 Coal Availability Program ...... 65 Coal/Coalbed-Methane Resource Information ...... 67 National Coal Resources Data System ...... 68 Coalbed-Methane-Produced Water Disposal by Injection in the Powder River Basin ... 69 Development of a Geologic Exploration Model for the Permo-Pennsylvanian System in South-Central Montana ...... 71 Evaluation of Coalbed-Methane Inﬁ ltration Ponds for Produced-Water Management ...73 Investigation of Coalbed-Methane Microbes in the Powder River Basin, Montana ...... 75 Monitoring Ground-Water Conditions in Coalbed-Methane Development Areas ...... 76 Coal Lands Hydrogeology ...... 78 Hydrologic Assessment for the Ashland Ranger District, Custer National Forest ...... 79 Grants and Contracts ...... 80 Administrative Division ...... 82 Information Services Division ...... 83 New Publications ...... 85

ii Biennial Report of Activities and Programs, 2004–2006

Director’s Introduction

Geology permeates our daily lives to an extent that few of us realize. The very shape of the landscape, the earth resources upon which our society depends, and the health and safety of our communities that may be at risk from geologic hazards are all part of the geologic fabric that surrounds us. Public-policy decision makers at State and local levels often face conﬂ icting opin- ions and options regarding competing interests for land, water, mineral, and energy resources. Identiﬁ cation and mitigation of existing and potential geologic hazards, including those that we create and others that are entirely natural, may be surprisingly controversial. Geologic information is critical in resolving these and many other issues.

Since 1919, the Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology (MBMG) has been directed by the legislature to address these issues; we are also uniquely qualiﬁ ed to provide integrated answers to these issues. The MBMG is a non-regulatory, applied-research and public-service agency, and the State’s geological survey. Our staff scientists have extensive knowledge of ground-water evaluation and protection, superfund sites, resource development and extraction, geologic mapping, and overall expertise in the geology of Montana.

The various projects conducted by the MBMG are devoted to providing information for all parties—decision makers, the public, or various governmental and private interests that need and use such data. As the following pages of this report will show, the projects themselves are quite varied. Sometimes interpretations may be contentious, but all are based on collection of sound geologic data and are peer reviewed before release.

Progress in geologic mapping deserves special mention. A previous MBMG Director stated, “Of all the missions of the MBMG, the preparation and understanding of geologic maps is one of the most complex and essential—and one of the least understood.” Whether an information request is from a mining company seeking information on a mineral resource or from a rancher or home- owner seeking advice on drilling a water well, a geologic map is the ﬁ rst and most important tool necessary to provide an answer. Geologic maps are the fundamental tool for anyone studying or evaluating geologic resources, geologic hazards, ground water, land-use planning, and many less obviously connected disciplines such as vegetation studies. Over 75 percent of the State now has geologic map coverage at a scale of 1:100,000, and these are being supplemented with more detailed maps as funding allows.

A long-sought and notable achievement that will be accomplished in early 2007 is the release of a new geologic map of Montana (1:500,000 scale). This map will replace a 1955 version that has been out of print for years. The new map incorporates decades of mapping by not only the MBMG, but also academic researchers, Federal mappers, and some private sources.

We also put great effort into public service, particularly into making our data available. Staff members spend countless hours providing information to individuals or groups, mostly within the State. The traditional methods of information transfer through either our own or external printed publications have been augmented by the astounding growth in delivery of data via the worldwide web. During the past calendar year, our Ground-Water Information Center (GWIC) database provided nearly 2 million pieces of information in response to about 450,000 queries. Additionally, approximately 65,000 copies of publications (mostly geologic maps) were downloaded through the main MBMG website. All of these data were provided at no cost to the user.

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Yet at the same time, sales of our printed publications are greater than in prior years. Demand and delivery of information are at record highs and continue to grow.

Several bills enacted by the 2005 legislature directly and positively affected the MBMG. The most signiﬁ cant was the authorization of a $14.4 million building on Montana Tech’s campus that will house both the MBMG and Tech’s Petroleum Engineering Department. Fundraising to make up the difference between the $9 million actually allocated and the total cost of the building is in progress. Main Hall, the current home for most of the MBMG, was erected in 1896 and for 110 years has had only piecemeal renovations. A building with modern laboratory facilities and handicapped access will serve the MBMG well. The legislature also partially funded a position for a geologist specializing in coal and coalbed-methane resources. Additionally, one-time-only funds were allocated to augment our Ground-Water Assessment Program, which has had a funding cap since its inception in ﬁ scal year 1992.

We look forward to continuing our service to the citizens of Montana. This report provides an overview of some of the things that we do, and I hope that it will provoke further interest in the geology of this State. Please feel free to contact us if you have questions.

Edmond G. Deal Director and State Geologist

Administratively, the Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology is a department of Montana Tech of The University of Montana. The main offi ce is located in Butte on the campus of Montana Tech and a smaller offi ce is located on the Montana State University-Billings campus. Our staff is comprised of about 55 permanent employees, and additionally we hire about a dozen students on a part-time basis. Funding is provided through an unrestricted biennial appropriation from the State’s general fund, designated State funds that support the Ground-Water Assessment Program, and research and service contracts with other organizations that address specifi c issues of interest to that organization. The MBMG uses its unrestricted funds to maintain core programs that are fundamental to all of our research and to provide match for contracts and grants that enable us to greatly extend our scope of activities.

Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology 1300 West Park Street Butte, MT 59701 Phone: 406-496-4180 Fax: 406-496-4451 Website: www.mbmg.mtech.edu GWIC website: mbmggwic.mtech.edu

2 Biennial Report of Activities and Programs, 2004–2006

Research Division Introduction

John Metesh Division Chief It is sometimes hard to believe that the lives and livelihoods of Montanans are so closely tied to events in other countries or even the weather in other states, but such events as the emerg- ing economy of China and the recovery from hurricane Katrina have had dramatic effects here. The demand for oil and gas, coal and coalbed methane, cement and lime (limestone), metals, and industrial minerals (talc and garnet) is unprecedented and has fueled Montana’s economic growth. As the local economy grows, so does our local demand on those same resources and more—including space and water.

It is easy to see why investigations related to geology, mining, and ground water in Montana are in high demand. In response to that demand, the Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology is actively participating in nearly 100 projects related to minerals and water in virtually every county in the State. The statewide geologic mapping program continued its progress toward providing basic geologic data for land-use planning. A new 1:500,000-scale geologic map of the State is nearly complete and is expected to be released by the spring of 2007; this represents compilation and substantial new ﬁ eld mapping since the original 1955 map. We were again reminded of the seismically active nature of western Montana with the earthquake near Dillon in July of 2005. Within minutes, the seismic monitoring network of the Earthquake Studies Ofﬁ ce provided data for location and magnitude.

The development of new mining projects and the mitigation of past mining were both very active in the past biennium. The Small Mines Operators Assistance Program and the Mineral Informa- tion Statistics Program both saw a notable increase in activity with the increase in prices for both precious and base metals. Much of the activity related to mining reclamation has matured as projects at most of the larger hard rock sites in Butte and western Montana have been completed. Post-reclamation monitoring and evaluation will provide data for determining the long-term successes of a variety of reclamation methods. Lessons learned are being applied to problem sites such as the underground coal mines near Belt; land-use controls and partial ﬂ ooding offer good potential for long-term low-cost solutions to acid mine drainage. Although coal strip mining has remained steady, there has been increasing interest in new projects related to coalbed methane and coal-to-liquid (gasiﬁ cation) in southeast Montana.

The demand for abundant, clean ground water grows with the approval of every new subdivision. The change in land use from agriculture to domestic and municipal use creates a dramatic change in ground water when recharge from irrigation ditches is replaced by pumping from wells. Several investigations throughout Montana were conducted to evaluate the change in ground-water ﬂ ow as well as the impact by septic systems on water quality.

The Research Division always depends a great deal on support of the other divisions within the MBMG. In the past biennium, the Analytical Division has expanded its capabilities with respect to both organic and inorganic chemistry. New analytical instruments with a talented group of chemists will provide support for several new areas of research in the coming years. In addition to the value added by skillful editing and layout, the Information Services Division has made our reports and maps much easier to ﬁ nd and has improved our ability to disseminate information through our website. Likewise, our Geographic Information System analysts have kept pace

3 Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology with rapidly expanding technology and have provided a signiﬁ cant contribution to nearly every research project.

This section of the MBMG Biennial Report provides brief summaries of many of the active projects of the Research Division, in Butte and Billings, over the past 2 years. Many are multi- year projects and almost all are conducted in cooperation with other State and Federal agencies such as the Department of Environmental Quality, the Department of Natural Resources and Conservation, the Department of Justice, the U.S. Geological Survey, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the Bureau of Land Management, the National Park Service, and the U.S. Forest Service, to name a few.

4 Biennial Report of Activities and Programs, 2004–2006

Geologic Projects

Project Title: Geologic Mapping Program Location: Statewide Project Period: Ongoing since 1986 in competitive cooperative programs with the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS); since 1992, under the USGS National Cooperative Geo- logic Mapping Program (NCGMP). The STATEMAP and EDMAP components of the NCGMP partially support fi eld mapping by state geologists and graduate students, respectively. Project Leader: Karen Porter Project Staff: MBMG staff and graduate students Issue A modern geologic map base for the State at a useful scale (minimum of 1:100,000; 0.1˝=1.6 mi) does not exist, although new information from many sources is available. The digital geologic map base being constructed in this project is essential to effectively execute many MBMG programs, including evaluation of (1) ground-water, mineral, and fossil fuel resources, (2) seismic hazards, (3) radon contamination, (4) abandoned and inactive mine status, and (5) geothermal resources. Additionally, an accurate geologic base is essential for areas of the state that are undergoing rapid population growth and development without adequate information concerning slope stability, swelling clays, water resources, aquifer contamination, fl ood-prone areas, and sites of potentially economic materials. Objective The objectives of the geologic mapping program are to: • provide digitally based, accurate, updated geologic maps at the 1:100,000 scale for the entire State and • prepare larger scale maps (1:50,000 or larger) for designated areas of rapid urban or rural growth. These maps refl ect modern structural and stratigraphic concepts and include a signifi cant amount of new mapping. Approach Geologic maps are prepared by: 1. compiling all available geologic map information for the area, 2. fi eld-checking the compilation, and 3. conducting new fi eld mapping and revision of earlier mapping. Data are integrated at the desired scale, maps are fi nalized through a strict review process, geologic data are entered in the MBMG geographic information system (GIS) database, and the hard-copy and digital products are made available to the public. Copies of many maps are submitted to the USGS in fulfi llment of funding contracts. Most maps require 2 to 3 years to complete; six MBMG geologists work part or full time on this program. In addition to digitally producing new geologic maps, geologists and GIS staff are bringing older, non-digital maps into digital form. Work with Graduate Students In addition to conducting our own geologic mapping, each year MBMG staff work with several graduate students doing fi eld theses in Montana, funded by the EDMAP component of the

5 Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology

NCGMP. The MBMG has responsibility for recommending projects to be funded and production of the ﬁ nal maps for those that are successful. Progress during the 2004–2006 Biennium The following geologic maps were completed between July 1, 2004, and June 30, 2006, and are available to the public: At the 1:100,000 scale (30’ x 60’): Ringling, Melstone, Jordan, Sand Springs. At the 1:50,000, 1:48,000, or 1:24,000 scale: Tarkio, Lozeau, Monument Hill, Dell, Flint Creek Basin, Big Hole Pass–Lost Trail Pass, Up- per Clark Fork (Garrison to Bearmouth), Red Lodge area, Bachelor Mountain, Stark South, Red Rock Upper Clark Fork (Bearmouth to Missoula), Goldstone Mountain–Goldstone Pass, Lower Jefferson Valley. Plans for the 2006–2008 Biennium Field mapping will continue in several areas of the state, including work that will: 1. complete 1:100,000-scale digital coverage of the State east of 112° west longitude, 2. provide detailed geology for the State’s areas of fastest growth and development, and 3. integrate geologic map data for western Montana. STATEMAP Advisory Committee Betsy Campen, Consulting Geologist/Billings Mike Cannon, U.S. Geological Survey, Water Resources Division/Helena Stephan Custer, Montana State University/Bozeman Steve J. Czehura, Montana Resources, Inc./Butte Michael Garverich, USDA–Natural Resources Conservation Service/Bozeman James W. Halvorson, Montana Board of Oil and Gas Conservation/Billings Marc Hendrix, The University of Montana/Missoula Teresa Kinley, Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation Chad Lee, Montana Department of Agriculture Bonnie K. Lovelace, Montana Department of Environmental Quality/Helena John Montagne, Montana State University (emeritus)/Bozeman Edward T. Ruppel, Former State Geologist of Montana/Twin Bridges James Shelden, U.S. Forest Service, Region 1/Missoula Rick Stefanic, U.S. Bureau of Indian Affairs/Billings David Williams, U.S. Bureau of Land Management/Billings Donald W. Wirth, Consulting Geologist/Billings

6 Biennial Report of Activities and Programs, 2004–2006

Project Title: Stratigraphic Research Location: Central Montana (Liberty, Choteau, Fergus, Petroleum, Musselshell, Golden Valley, Wheatland, Blaine, and Judith Basin Counties) Project Period: Ongoing since 1992 Project Leader: Karen Porter Project Staff: MBMG staff and outside research col- leagues Funding Source: Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology and U.S. Geological Survey Issue The occurrence and distribution of sedimentary rock units in the subsurface of central Montana is important because these rocks contain oil and natural gas in numerous fi elds throughout the Rocky Mountain and High Plains region, from southern Colorado into Canada. Understanding how the rock units of central Montana relate to the same intervals elsewhere in the region will increase our ability to recognize stratigraphic details affecting the occurrence and trapping of productive hydrocarbons in the subsurface. Objective Recognize changing stratigraphic relationships across the region from which models can be developed for improved prediction of the occurrence of oil and gas in the subsurface. Approach Detailed fi eld studies are conducted on rock outcrops of those sedimentary rock intervals known to produce hydrocarbons in the subsurface. Important aspects of these outcrops are: • specifi c rock types such as sandstones, shales, and limestones; • thicknesses; • vertical and lateral changes in the stratigraphic layers; and • correlation of the units at one locality with those at another. Correlations may also be made between the rock outcrops and well logs of oil and/or water wells. These surface and subsurface correlations allow the geologist to make maps of the subsurface distribution of the rock types. The combined surface and subsurface information leads to the development of a geologic model: a three-dimensional picture of how these rocks were fi rst laid down as sediment, then compressed into rock, and fi nally became hosts to oil and gas. Progress during the 2004–2006 Biennium Studies of the marine Upper Cretaceous rocks have led to development of models of these rocks as ancient marine deposits and of the ancient erosion surfaces that have modifi ed these deposits. Ability to predict oil and gas occurrence in these intervals in the subsurface has been improved. Information Products Cobban, W.A., Dyman, T.S., and Porter, K.W., 2005, Paleontology and stratigraphy of upper Coniacian–middle Santonian ammonite zones and application to erosion surfaces and marine transgressive strata in Montana and Alberta: Cretaceous Research, v. 26, p. 429–449. Hale, E.S., Cobban, W.A., Dyman, T. S., Nichols, D., and Porter, K.W., in press, Cretaceous Complexities: The Stratigraphic Intricacies of Mount Everts: U.S. Department of Interior National Park Service.

7 Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology

Project Title: Montana Sapphires Location: Southwestern Montana counties (Granite, Powell, Deer Lodge, Silver Bow, Jefferson, and Lewis and Clark) Project Leader: Richard B. Berg Project Period: Ongoing Funding Source: Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology Objective To provide information about Montana’s sapphire deposits that will be interesting to the general public and useful to those engaged in developing this signifi cant mineral resource. Although these deposits have produced more than 50 tons of sapphires, the bedrock sources have generally not yet been recognized. Approach Sample selected sapphire occurrences and examine reported but unverifi ed occurrences to determine the source bedrock of the large alluvial sapphire deposits in southwestern Montana. Delineate more thoroughly the extent and distribution of these alluvial deposits. Study selected sapphires from these deposits to identify mineral inclusions and surface features that can provide clues about their bedrock sources and ultimate origin. Progress during the 2004–2006 Biennium • Worked with a Montana Tech graduate student in a study of a sapphire occurrence west of Butte (Silver Bow County) and provided signifi cant information on the bedrock source (volcanic rock) of these sapphires and by inference for additional related occurrences • Conducted a detailed study of sapphires from the South Fork of Dry Cottonwood Creek (Deer Lodge County) that provided additional evidence of volcanic rock as the source of some sapphires. Began detailed fi eld work in the extensive Rock Creek sapphire district (Gem Mountain) west of Philipsburg (Granite County) • Examined the surfaces of sapphires from alluvial deposits in western Montana at high magnifi cation using scanning electron microscopy, to determine signifi cant differences among sapphires from the major alluvial deposits in western Montana Information Products Berg, R.B., in press, Sapphires in the Butte–Deer Lodge Area, Montana: Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology.

8 Biennial Report of Activities and Programs, 2004–2006

Project Title: Industrial Minerals of Montana Location: Statewide Project Period: Ongoing Project Leaders: Richard B. Berg and Robin McCulloch Funding Source: Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology Objective To provide information that will aid in developing Montana’s industrial mineral resources. Provide information about industrial minerals to the general public. Approach Conduct fi eld and laboratory investigations of Montana’s industrial mineral resources and release this information through MBMG publications or open-fi le reports, and articles in other publications. Methods range from grass-roots exploration, as was accomplished in recent years for zeolite deposits, to detailed analyses, as in the investigation of sapphires. Provide technical information, obtained primarily through petrographic analysis and mineralogical determinations, to prospectors and those involved in developing industrial mineral deposits. Provide information about markets for specifi c industrial mineral commodities and also recent developments in the industrial minerals industry. Progress during the 2004–2006 Biennium See Montana Sapphires project for specifi c information. Plans for the 2006–2008 Biennium Additional funding sources for the study of Montana’s industrial minerals need to be identifi ed.

9 Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology

Project Title: Mineral Museum Location: Montana Tech Campus Project: Since 1901 Project Leader: Ginette Abdo and Richard B. Berg Funding Source: Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology and private donations Objective To create educational activities that enhance an understanding of the earth sciences and our natural resources; provide interesting and informative displays of mineral specimens, with particular emphasis on specimens from the Northern Rocky Mountains. The Museum has over 1,300 mineral specimens on display and an additional 15,000 specimens in storage. The accessioned collection is in a computerized database that facilitates information acquisition. Approach 1. Display varied and aesthetically intriguing fi ne mineral specimens 2. Conduct informative tours and workshops, and involve the community in geology-related activities 3. Provide information to visitors and tourists on the identifi cation of rocks and minerals, the mining history of Butte, and the locations of points of interest Progress during the 2004–2006 Biennium Group tours are an important activity of the Museum, and during the past biennium about 1,500 individuals in over 80 groups were guided through the Mineral Museum. Students were given exercises that required them to fi nd specimens in the Museum and that emphasized the uses of minerals. In addition to tour groups, the Museum welcomed over 18,000 visitors during the 2004–2006 Biennium. The Museum gold display was revamped to include interpretive text, and descriptive text was added to several specimens. A new donation box and two new display cabinets were donated to the Museum. With funds from private donations, a display case was built to house the DVD player used to show the 12-minute production “Butte, the Richest Hill on Earth.” Approximately 150 specimens were accessioned into the Museum’s permanent collection. A beautiful amethyst geode from Brazil, approximately 2.5 feet in diameter, is now displayed in the central fl oor area. The Museum also placed second in the “Best of Museums” category in each of the 2004 and 2005 Denver Gem and Mineral shows. In addition, workshops, lectures, and fi eld trips have become part of the Museum’s regular offerings. Some Mineral Museum activities included: Lectures What’s the Deal with Oil? Montana’s Great Floods of 1908 Seismic Hazards in Silver Bow County; Lessons from the July 2006 Dillon Earthquake Gold—Understanding Where to Find it and How to Get it! Soils, Rocks, and Plants—Unraveling the Mysteries of Our Landscape Why Are There Mountains in Montana?

10 Biennial Report of Activities and Programs, 2004–2006

Workshops Thunder, Lightning, and Wind Storms Everyday is Earth Day! Kids Open House Digging for Dinosaurs—The Museum of the Rockies Comes to Butte! Mother’s Day Rocks What Mineral Is That??! Reach for the Stars! Carve It with Talc Interpreting the Mining Landscape—Drawing on Copper Field Trips The Quest for Gold Toll Mountain Minerals Gold Panning and Placering Calvert Hill—Epidote, Garnet, and More! Plans for the 2006–2008 Biennium The plans for this biennium include continued educational outreach through the schools and the community, and improvement in the mineral displays. Museum personnel will ﬁ nalize a long- range plan.

11 Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology

Project Title: A Rock by Any Other Name: Understanding Lewis and Clark’s Geography, Geology and Navigation in Montana Location: Statewide Project Period: June 2004–April 2007 Project Leader: Ginette Abdo and Bob Bergantino Funding Source: National Park Service and the Montana Lewis and Clark Bicentennial Commission

Objective The objective of this project is to develop a traveling exhibit that features important detailed geographic and geologic observations that Lewis and Clark made in Montana. Included in these products will be illustrations of their navigation equipment and techniques. Approach 1. Develop a list of sites that Lewis and Clark visited and/or described. 2. Visit selected sites and take photographs and collect samples where appropriate. 3. Compile information on each site, including the Expedition’s journal entries. 4. Prepare the traveling exhibit. Progress during the 2004–2006 Biennium All the sites included in the display were visited and display panels have been developed for 6 of the 8 sites. In addition, personnel are currently working on the navigation panel. Plans for the 2006–2008 Biennium The plans for this biennium include developing the text and graphics for the remaining panels. This information will then be sent to a professional museum display designer. The project is planned to be completed in April 2007.

12 Biennial Report of Activities and Programs, 2004–2006

Project Title: Montana Seismograph Network and Earth- quake Studies Offi ce Location: Statewide, a total of 42 seismograph stations collect ground motion data, primarily in western Montana Project Period: Ongoing since 1980 Project Leader: Michael Stickney Staff: Part-time student assistants Funding Source: Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology, Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes (CSKT), U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), National Institute of Safety and Health, and Incorporated Research Institutions for Seismology (IRIS) Issue Western Montana has a history of large, damaging earthquakes and remains seismically active. Many of these earthquakes (including the magnitude 6.8 quake north of Three Forks in 1925 and the 1935 magnitude 6.3 and 6.0 quakes that badly damaged Helena) occur at depth along faults that do not extend to the earth’s surface. The seismic hazards associated with earthquakes on these “blind” faults cannot be evaluated with traditional geologic studies of faults and are best studied with data from a permanent network of seismograph stations. As the population and infrastructure of earthquake-prone western Montana continues to grow, the exposure to seismic hazards increases. Objective Monitor, analyze, and report on Montana earthquakes and use these data to evaluate seismic hazards. A better understanding of the earthquake process in Montana and the faults along which they occur will increase the ability to prepare for and protect against the effects of future earthquakes. Approach A network consisting of 38 seismic monitoring stations operates throughout western Montana, the most seismically active region of the State. Four additional stations operate in less seismically active eastern Montana. Signals from 22 remote seismograph stations are transmitted directly to the MBMG using low-power FM radio links, while signals from 12 other stations are transmitted to two remote nodes and sent to the MBMG in Butte via the Internet. Signals from regional U.S. National Network Stations, including seven Montana stations operated coopera- tively by the USGS and the MBMG, are retrieved via satellite or spread-spectrum radio links and the Internet. Other regional seismic monitoring centers provide additional seismic data from stations in the surrounding region (Yellowstone Park, central Idaho, and southern Canada). The MBMG records a total of 171 channels of seismic data from 82 local and regional stations. Using the data from this extensive seismograph network, the times, locations, and magnitudes of earthquakes are determined and cataloged. Signifi cant local and regional earthquakes are reported to appropriate State and Federal agencies (Montana Disaster and Emergency Ser- vices, Montana Dam Safety Program, CSKT Dam Safety Program, and USGS), the public, and the media. A listing of recent earthquakes, along with other information about seismic hazards in Montana, is available on the MBMG Earthquake Studies Offi ce website (http://mbmgquake. mtech.edu/).

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Progress during the 2004–2006 Biennium 1. Data from the Montana regional seismograph network were used to locate and catalog 3,709 earthquakes with magnitudes ranging from less than 1.0 to 5.6 in western Montana between July 2004 and June 2006. The largest Montana earthquake during this period was a magnitude 5.6 earthquake on July 26, 2005, centered 9 miles north of Dillon. It caused signifi cant damage to a number of masonry buildings in Dillon including the grade school, public library, and Old Main Hall on the University of Montana Western campus. Fortu- nately, there were no injuries. The largest aftershock measured 4.4 on the Richter scale, and 930 aftershocks have been located to date, not counting approximately 500 aftershocks that remain to be analyzed. Forty-one aftershocks had magnitudes of 3.0 or larger, and residents reported feeling 16 aftershocks, but residents living near the epicenter felt many more than this number. Several other signifi cant earthquakes occurred during this period, including a magnitude 4.6 earthquake along the Montana–Idaho border 40 miles southwest of Dillon on October 31, 2005; a magnitude 4.6 earthquake 35 miles east of Lima on February 5, 2006; and a magnitude 4.3 earthquake on March 22, 2006 centered 8 miles southwest of Eureka. The Earthquake Studies Offi ce located 146 earthquakes with magnitudes of 3.0 or greater in the northern Rocky Mountain region during the 2004–2006 biennium. 2. In response to the July 26, 2006 Dillon earthquake, the USGS and the MBMG coopera- tively installed a new broadband seismograph station north of Dillon near the epicenter. This station became operational on August 12, 2006, and greatly improves our ability to determine accurate earthquake focal depths. In addition to this new seismograph station, the IRIS awarded three grants to the Earthquake Studies Offi ce. The fi rst grant was used to select a site for a new broadband seismograph station 20 miles southeast of Big Sandy in north-central Montana along the south fl ank of the Bears Paw Mountains. IRIS personnel installed this station, which became operational on December 1, 2005. With the second IRIS award, Earthquake Studies Offi ce personnel selected a new site for a broadband seismograph near Red Lodge at the northeastern tip of the Beartooth Mountains and used funding from the third grant to install the station in cooperation with the USGS. The Red Lodge station became operational September 12, 2006. One additional short-period seismograph station was installed on Mount Belmont, 18 miles northwest of Helena, on October 19, 2005. 3. The collaborative effort between the MBMG and the CSKT continues to successfully operate the Flathead seismic network, representing the northwestern segment of the Montana regional seismograph network. Data from this seven-station network vastly improves seismic monitoring coverage in northwest Montana. The CSKT also provides generous support for operation and maintenance of seismic stations in the Missoula region and analysis of northwest Montana seismicity. A site in the central Mission Valley is currently being permit- ted for a second digital seismograph station, with installation planned for as soon as possible after receiving the permit. 4. The Earthquake Studies Offi ce continues to use the Earthworm data acquisition software in Butte and at two remote nodes at the University of Montana in Missoula and the CSKT offi ce in Ronan. Using this PC-based system, seismic data from the Flathead Valley, Mis- soula area, and southwest Montana are continuously recorded at the Earthquake Studies Offi ce in Butte. Seismic data are also shared in real-time with other seismic monitoring centers including the USGS, the University of Utah (which operates the Yellowstone network), Brigham Young University in Idaho, Idaho National Laboratory, Boise State Univer- sity, the University of Idaho, the University of Washington, and the Canadian Geological Survey. Seismic waveforms and automatically determined event locations are posted to the

14 Biennial Report of Activities and Programs, 2004–2006

MBMG website, updated every 5 minutes. Automatic event locations are also contributed to the USGS National Earthquake Information Center in near-real-time. Plans are underway to upgrade and modernize the Earthworm data acquisition system at the Earthquake Studies Offi ce. 5. The MBMG published “Probabilistic Earthquake Hazard Maps for the State of Montana” as Special Publication 117. This 72-page publication includes a CD with color maps quantify- ing earthquake hazards in Montana. Plans for the 2006–2008 Biennium The Earthquake Studies Offi ce will continue to study and report on Montana earthquakes using data from the Montana regional seismograph network and provide information about earthquakes, faults, and seismic hazards in Montana. We plan to implement new data analysis software that will make earthquake analysis more timely and effi cient and have written a grant proposal requesting funding for a seismic analyst position. Cooperation with the USGS will continue to maintain high-quality U.S. National Seismic Network stations in central and eastern Montana where seismic monitoring coverage is limited. Strong-motion seismographs operated by the USGS National Strong Motion Program will be integrated into the Montana seismograph network. We will incorporate data from the IRIS Earthscope Transportable Array experiment into the routine operations of the Montana regional seismograph network. The Transportable Array will include 70 high-quality seismograph stations operated throughout Montana for 18–24 months beginning in late 2006 or early 2007. Information Products Zeiler, C.P., Stickney, M.C., and Speece, M.A., 2005, Revised velocity structure of western Montana: Bulletin of the Seismological Society of America: v. 95, p. 759–762. Wong, I., Olig, S., Dober, M., Wright, D., Nemser, E., Lageson, D., Silva, W., Stickney, M., Lemieux, M., and Anderson, L., 2005, Probabilistic earthquake hazard maps for the State of Montana: Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology Special Publication 117, 72 p. plus CD. Stickney, M.C., 2005, The 26 July 2005 MW 5.6 Dillon, Montana earthquake: Seismological Research Letters, v. 77, p. 209. Lonn, J.D., Skipp, B., Ruppel, E.T., Janecke, S.U., Perry, W.J., Sears, J.W., Bartholomew, M.J., Stickney, M.C., Fritz, W.J., Hurlow, H.A., and Thomas, R.C., 2000 (Revised 2006), Geologic map of the Lima 30´ x 60´ quadrangle, southwest Montana: Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology Open-File 408, scale 1:100,000. Stickney, M.C., 2006, Montana seismicity report for 2004: Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology Miscellaneous Contribution 20, 61 p. published on CD.

15 Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology

Project Title: Mapping Potential Geologic Hazards from Radon in Montana Air and Ground Water for Environmen- tal Public Health Tracking Location: Statewide Project Leaders: Kate Miller and Phyllis Hargrave Project Period: June 29, 2005 to July 31, 2006 Funding Source: Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS), Environmental Public Health Tracking Project (EPHT) Issue Radon in air is a well-documented concern that potentially contributes to 20,000 deaths a year in the U.S. (U.S. EPA, 2000). Radon may be directly inhaled from indoor air or be released from water used in a home. Aerated and/or heated water used for washing or showering can be a source of household radon. Radon released from water is estimated to cause 168 deaths per year. Most of this radon is released from water into the air, but 11% of these deaths can be attributed to radon in drinking water (linked to stomach cancer). Objective The purpose of this project is to assess existing radon ground-water data and radon air data to establish if adequate data exist to describe correlations between elevated radon concentrations, geologic units, mineral potential, or other geologic sources. Phase 1 used residential radon data that had been geocoded with latitude and longitude. Phase 2 included GIS implementation, data reduction, geologic interpretation, and preparing a summary report. Progress during the 2004-2006 Biennium A database was submitted to EPHT as a part of this study incorporating 600 points sampled for radon in air. For this report, the GIS data were interpreted associating high concentrations (>20 pCi/L) with surfi cial and/or bedrock geology and evaluating the presence of trends by rock units. The same was done for ground-water samples, but in that case a study was done associating high concentrations (>4,000 pCi/L) with lithology and source aquifer. Information Products A fi nal report on the fi ndings was submitted to DPHHS.

16 Biennial Report of Activities and Programs, 2004–2006

Mines and Mining Impacts

Project Title: Small Mine Operators Assistance Program Location: Statewide Project Period: Ongoing since the 1950s Project Leader: Robin McCulloch Project Staff: Robin McCulloch, assisted by MBMG staff as needed Funding Source: Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology and private donations Issue Small operations lack suffi cient cash fl ow to support technical staff. This often leads to ineffi cient operation, premature closure, and environmental problems. Objective Provide technical assistance, contacts, and guidance to ensure the wise use of resources and minimize environmental problems. The priority is strengthening the economic health of small mining enterprise without damage to the environment. Approach The Staff Mining Engineer regularly visits mining and exploration operations across the State. Contacts are typically made as referrals from other miners or State and Federal regulatory agencies. Technical services typically include operational instruction, feasibility assistance, geologic mapping, surveying, sampling instruction, mine design, reclamation planning, permitting guidance, and contacts to qualifi ed consultants. Progress during the 2004–2006 Biennium Properties throughout western Montana were visited. The main focus of the fi eld time was directed to the primary mineral belt north and south of Butte; however, activities also included Mineral, Lincoln, Missoula, Park, Broadwater, and Meagher counties. Placer mining assistance was provided via lectures to many of the local prospecting clubs; topics included instructions on how to fi nd gold and methods of compliance within the State and Federal operating rules. Guid- ance and training were provided to 900–1,000 individuals through lectures and meetings in the fi eld. Montana Tech Mining Department students were utilized in assisting a number of small operators in the design and planning of operations. The students solved real mining problems and provided assistance to small businesses at no cost. Surveying, cost estimating, and mine planning experience gained by students was benefi cial to both parties. Data gathered by students while working with the small operations was used to expand property fi les and databases. This information is critical to future development of deposits as well as the management of adjacent resources. Plans for the 2006–2008 Biennium Operations will continue at historical levels dependent on funding and time. Demand for these services is increasing as a result of the increased prices in commodities. Mining activities will continue to get more complicated for small-scale operations due to more restrictive Federal and State policies. Information Products Numerous operating plans, one feasibility report, and many brief research reports to small operators. All are unpublished but available to the public on request. Primary consumers of this information are mine operators, prospectors, hobbyists, and State and Federal agencies.

17 Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology

Project Title: Mineral Information and Statistics Program Location: Statewide Project Period: Ongoing Project Leader: Robin McCulloch Project Staff: One part-time research aide Funding Source: Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology Issue Mineral information and statistical data are needed by State and Federal agencies, industry, industry support companies, and private citizens. Objective To gather and compile data that provide statistics and reports on Montana’s mineral industry. Approach Data are secured from companies and individuals where available; mine maps are generated on properties as access is secured; production records on the larger companies are gathered by the U.S. Geological Survey and shared with the MBMG; and production data on smaller operations are gathered by the MBMG. Historic and current mineral property fi les are gathered and maintained in an archive. Staff members publish reports on the industry, present papers, and answer specifi c requests for mineral data. Progress during the 2004–2006 Biennium The mine map collection was inventoried and the mineral property fi les were completed. Both collections can be retrieved and sorted via computer, but are not yet on the MBMG website. Extensive collections continue to be received in the form of donations of maps and fi les for properties across the State. These collections represent millions of dollars of expenditures for data gathering. Interest in the data is increasing, with numerous requests from mineral exploration companies as well as Montana citizens. Over 1,000 telephone calls and personal requests for data were processed; hundreds of e-mail requests were also received. The trend toward requesting data via computer-related inquiries continues to increase. Mineral potential reports for conservation easements were completed for Montana Fish, Wildlife, and Parks and for Fed- eral agencies and organizations such as the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation. Sixteen presentations were prepared and delivered to mineral groups, county historical societies, and teachers. Plans for the 2006–2008 Biennium The focus of activities will continue to be in gathering data as it becomes available. More effort will be put into converting paper fi les into electronic fi les in easily retrievable databases. As we enter a period of data collection, efforts will be made to upgrade older publications with cor- rected and expanded documents. Opportunities to work with companies to understand our mineral endowment further will be expanded where possible. Since demand for the program is expected to increase, the program will focus on improvements in effi ciency, donations of data, and data sharing with individuals, companies, and agencies. Information Products McCulloch, R., Montana Mining Directory—1995–1998, Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology Miscellaneous Contribution 18 ( available on CD). McCulloch, R., 2005, Annual Review 2004, State Activities, Montana: Mining Engineering, May 2004, p. 99–102. McCulloch, R., 2006, Annual Review 2005, State Activities, Montana: Mining Engineering, May 2006, p. 96–100.

18 Biennial Report of Activities and Programs, 2004–2006

Project Title: Post-Mine Reclamation Monitoring at the Comet, Alta, and Gregory Mines, Southwestern Montana Location: Jefferson County Project Period: April 2006 to present Project Leader: James Madison Project Staff: Graduate student research assistants Funding Source: U.S. Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Issue The BLM completed extensive land reclamation of mill tailings and waste dumps at abandoned mines that were impairing water quality in nearby streams. The reclamation, however, did not result in the removal of all tailings and waste. The BLM is interested in documenting the effectiveness of the reclamation and identifying any other areas that may be deteriorating water quality and may need reclaiming. Objective Post-reclamation water-quality monitoring at the Comet, Gregory, and Alta mines is the primary objective of this project. Another objective is the training of Montana Tech graduate students in the concepts of water-quality monitoring, allowing them to obtain applied geoscience experience and complete the necessary requirements for their graduate degrees. Approach Collect water samples during spring runoff and late summer base fl ow and analyze the samples for major ions and trace elements. Measure stream fl ow at each sampling location and calculate loading for the constituents of concern. Install mini-piezometers to characterize shallow ground- water quality. Prepare a report summarizing the fi ndings. Progress during the 2004–2006 Biennium Field investigations and data collection have been completed. More than 100 mini-piezometers were installed and ground-water samples collected at the Comet mine to show distribution of trace-element constituents in ground water and how it loads High Ore Creek. More than 30 mini-piezometers were installed at the reclaimed Gregory mine site. At the Alta mine, low-fl ow samples were collected from the unnamed tributary that drains the mine site. Information Products Tupling, B., Gerbrandt, B., and Madison, J., 2001, High Ore Creek post-reclamation water sampling and analyses: Letter report to BLM, 136 p. Teiter, D., Gerbrandt, B., and Madison, J., 2002, High Ore Creek post-reclamation water sampling and analyses: Letter report to BLM, 160 p. Browne, M., Quinones, B., and Madison, J., 2002, High Ore Creek watershed restoration [abs]: Proceedings of the National Association of Abandoned Mine Land Programs, Park City, Utah, September 2002. Horne, D., Gerbrandt, B., and Madison, J., 2003, High Ore Creek post-reclamation water sampling and analyses: Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology Letter Report to BLM, 148 p. Woods, J., Gerbrandt, B., and Madison, J., 2004, High Ore Creek post-reclamation surface water sampling data summary: Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology Letter Report to BLM, 198 p. Sudbrink, A., 2006, Ground water and surface water interactions in High Ore Creek at the Comet mine, southwest Montana: Butte, Montana Tech of the University of Montana, M.S. thesis.

19 Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology

Project Title: Natural Resource Damage Assessment— Butte Area Location: Butte and Silver Bow Creek, Silver Bow and Deer Lodge Counties Project Period: Ongoing since May 1991 Project Leaders: Ted Duaime, John Metesh, and James Madison Funding Source: Montana Department of Justice Issue There have been multiple and continuous releases of hazardous substances from mining, milling, and other industrial sources to the upper Clark Fork River basin. The resources affected by these releases include air, surface water, ground water, soils, benthic macroinvertebrates, fi sh, wildlife, and wildlife habitat. Objective To provide the State with the best available information pertaining to ground-water fl ow and quality related to the Butte Area Superfund site and the Silver Bow Creek Superfund sites. Approach The MBMG participated in the assessment of injury to ground water in the Butte area related to mining. The MBMG further participated in preparation of restoration alternatives for the Butte area. Additionally, the MBMG assisted in the monitoring of remediation activities along Silver Bow Creek and performed site-specifi c studies relating to possible stream relocation alternatives. Progress during the 2004–2006 Biennium The principal responsible parties group estimated that more than 1 million cubic yards of waste remain in the historic Colorado Tailings, Butte Reduction Works, and under the Butte–Silver Bow Metro Sewage Treatment Plant. During the biennium, the MBMG drilled and cored the subsurface material at the Butte Reduction Works and Butte-Silver Bow Metro Sewage Treatment Plant; tailings were not present at either area, and a refi ned estimate indicates that less than 100,000 cubic yards of tailings are potentially present in the historic Colorado Tailings, Butte Reduction Works, and under the Butte–Silver Bow Metro Sewage Treatment Plant. A proposed fi shing pond near the confl uence of Blacktail Creek and the Metro Storm Drain was the focus of soil and water sampling by the MBMG. The purpose of the sampling was to (1) characterize the quality of surface water and ground water to determine if it is suitable for sus- taining fi sh and (2) characterize the concentrations of arsenic, cadmium, copper, lead, and zinc in subsurface material to determine if excavated material could be used onsite or if it would have to be hauled to a repository. The concentration of trace-element constituents in both surface and ground water were less than acute and chronic water quality criteria. The concentration of arsenic and lead in some sediment samples exceeded EPA standards, which would require that all excavated material be hauled to a repository. The site was subsequently withdrawn as a potential site for a fi shing pond. Silver Bow Creek remediation is progressing downstream with various parties cooperating to incorporate different remediation alternatives. In support of this, the MBMG installed and monitored a series of ground-water monitoring wells in the Miles Crossing area to determine the feasibility of relocating the stream channel to a more natural location. In addition, supplemental monitoring and water-quality sampling were performed along Silver Bow Creek to document the success of previous stream restoration activities and current downstream conditions. This information will be used to assess overall stream restoration success and identify areas where more work is necessary.

20 Biennial Report of Activities and Programs, 2004–2006

Plans for the 2006–2008 Biennium: The MBMG will collect additional data on the Butte Area, Silver Bow Creek portion of the claim. Information Products Metesh, J.J., 1995, Clark Fork natural resource damage assessment—Ground water: Montana Pole Treatment Plant ground water injury assessment, Butte, Montana: Montana Department of Health and Environmental Sciences (now MDEQ), January 1995, 40 p. Maest, A.S., and Metesh, J.J., 1995, Butte ground-water injury assessment report—Clark Fork River Basin NPL sites, Montana: Montana Department of Health and Environmental Sciences (now MDEQ), January 1995, 120 p. Metesh, J.J., and Madison, J.P., 2004, Summary of investigation, Upper Silver Bow Creek, Butte, Montana: Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology Open-File Report 507, 6 p. Madison, J.P., 2005, Soil Borings at Butte-Silver Bow Metro Sewage Treatment Plant and Butte Reduction Works, Butte, Montana: Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology Letter Report to NRDA. Madison, J.P., and Metesh, J.J., 2006, Ground-water, surface-water, and soil sampling at a proposed ﬁ shing pond near Blacktail Creek, Butte, Montana: Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology Letter Report to NRDA. Norbeck, P.N., and Madison, J.P., 2006, Draft surface-water, sediment, and ground-water assessment, Silver Bow Creek, Montana.

21 Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology

Project Title: Abandoned and Inactive Mines Inventory and Preliminary Assessment Location: U.S. Forest Service (USFS) lands and U.S. Bureau of Land Management (BLM) lands statewide Project Period: USFS: May 1992–ongoing; BLM: October 1, 1993–ongoing Project Leaders: Phyllis Hargrave, James Madison, and John Metesh Funding Source: USFS and BLM Issue The abandoned and inactive mines on USFS and BLM lands in Montana need to be inventoried, and preliminary screening and assessments conducted. Objective To collect accurate location, water, and solid chemistry data; conduct a preliminary screening of sites on USFS and BLM lands; and compile existing and new data in a database. Approach 1. Use existing information from other databases, literature, and MBMG fi les to identify sites for investigation. 2. Conduct a fi eld inventory and preliminary screening of sites on USFS and BLM lands. 3. Conduct a preliminary assessment, including sampling, of all sites identifi ed in the preliminary screening as having a potential for health or environmental impacts. 4. Compile all information into a database. 5. Prepare reports for each drainage in each forest (USFS) and resource area (BLM). Progress during the 2004–2006 Biennium The inventories of all hardrock mines and mills that are on or affecting USFS-administered lands are complete. Additional inventories of abandoned mines on or affecting BLM-administered land in the Little Rocky Mountains were completed during the biennium, and a fi nal report is in progress. Final reports for all the National Forests and BLM Resource areas in Montana (exclud- ing the Little Rocky Mountains) are available. Preliminary work has begun on the compilation of information related to placer mines; a fi eld inventory form was developed, and the inventory was initiated. Plans for the 2006–2008 Biennium Continue the inventory of placer mines on or affecting USFS- and BLM-administered land. A fi nal report of abandoned mines in the Little Rocky Mountains on or affecting BLM-administered land will be prepared. The database of mine and mill sites, as well as site characteristics, will be maintained. Information Products Metesh, J.J., Lonn, J., Duaime, T.E., and Wintergerst, R., 1994, Abandoned-inactive mines in the Deerlodge National Forest, v. I: Basin Creek drainage, April 1994: Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology Open-File Report 321, 123 p. Metesh, J.J., Lonn, J., Duaime, T.E., Marvin, R.K, and Wintergerst, R., 1995, Abandoned- inactive mines in the Deerlodge National Forest, v. II: Cataract Creek drainage, May 1995: Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology Open-File Report 344, 163 p. Marvin, R.K., Metesh, J.J., Lonn, J., Madison, J.P, and Wintergerst, R., 1995, Abandoned- inactive mines in the Deerlodge National Forest, v. III: Flint Creek and Rock Creek drainages, December 1995: Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology Open-File Report

22 Biennial Report of Activities and Programs, 2004–2006

345, 173 p. 24 Madison, J.P, Lonn, J., Marvin, R.K., Metesh, J.J., and Wintergerst, R., 1996, Abandoned- inactive mines in the Deerlodge National Forest, v. IV: Upper Clark Fork River drainage, July 1996: Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology Open-File Report 346, 165 p. Marvin, R.K., Metesh, J.J., Hargrave, P.A., Lonn, J., Watson, J.E., Bowler, T.P., and Madison, J.P, 1997, Abandoned-inactive mines of Montana U.S. Bureau of Land Management, July 1997: Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology Open-File Report 348, 513 p. Metesh, J.J., and Duaime, T.E., 1997, Abandoned-inactive mines in Montana—1996, January 1997: Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology Special Publication 111, scale 1:750,000. Metesh, J.J., Lonn, J., Marvin, R.K, Hargrave, P.A., and Madison, J.P., 1998, Abandoned- inactive mines in the Helena National Forest, v. I: Upper Missouri River drainage, May 1998: Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology Open-File Report 352, 195 p. Hargrave, P.A., Bowler, T.P., Lonn, J., Madison, J.P, Metesh, J.J., and, Wintergerst, R., 1998, Abandoned-inactive mines in the Helena National Forest, v. II: Blackfoot and Little Blackfoot River drainages, February 1998: Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology Open-File Report 368, 181 p. Marvin, R.K., Hargrave, P.A., Lonn, J., Abdo, G.N., Metesh, J.J., and Bump, K., 1998, Abandoned-inactive mines in the southern Beaverhead–Deerlodge National Forest, September 1998: Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology Open-File Report 379, 322 p. Hargrave, P.A., Kerschen, M.D., McDonald, Catherine, Metesh, J.J., Norbeck, P.M., and Wintergerst, Robert, 2000, Abandoned-inactive mines on Gallatin National Forest land: Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology Open-File Report 418, 77 p. Kerschen, M.D., Hargrave, P.A., McDonald, Catherine, Metesh, J.J., and Wintergerst, Robert, 2000, Abandoned-inactive mines on Custer National Forest-administered land: Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology Open-File Report 421, 59 p. Hargrave, P.A., Kerschen, M.D., Liva, G.W., Lonn, J.D., McDonald, Catherine, Metesh, J.J., and Wintergerst, Robert, 2000, Abandoned and inactive mines on Lewis and Clark National Forest-administered land: Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology Open-File Report 413, 132 p. McDonald, C., Hargrave, P.A., Kerschen, M.D., Metesh, J.J., and Wintergerst, R., 2002, Abandoned-inactive mines on Flathead National Forest-administered land, July 2002: Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology Open-File Report 462, 68 p. Hargrave, P.A., Kerschen, M.D., McDonald, C., Metesh, J.J., and Wintergerst, R., 2003, Abandoned-inactive mines on Lolo National Forest-administered land, April 2003: Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology Open-File Report 476, 228 p. Hargrave, P.A., McDonald, C., Kerschen, M.D., Metesh, J.J., and Wintergerst, R., 2003, Abandoned-inactive mines on Bitterroot National Forest-administered land, October 2003: Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology Open-File Report 484, 93 p.

23 Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology

Project Title: Montana Pole Treatment Plant, Bioremedia- tion of Soils, Environmental Monitoring, and Operation of Water Treatment Plant Location: Silver Bow County Project Period: Ongoing since 1995 Project Leaders: Tom Bowler and Pam Reed Project Staff: John Metesh, James Madison, Luke Buck- ley, Ted Duaime, and Pete Norbeck Funding Source: Montana Department of Environmental Quality (MDEQ) Issue The Montana Pole Treatment Plant Superfund site is the location of a former wood-treating facil- ity that operated from 1946 to 1985. Contamination of soils, ground water, and Silver Bow Creek has occurred as a result of discharges of solutions used in the treating process. Primary chemicals of concern are diesel fuel and pentachlorophenol (PCP). The State of Montana, U.S. Envi- ronmental Protection Agency (EPA), and Montana Department of Justice have reached a settle- ment with the responsible parties. Remedial actions on the north portion of the site have been completed and work is underway on the south portion of the site. Contaminated soils removed during north side cleanup have been treated to concentrations well below specifi ed levels and have been returned to the north side and covered. The fi rst three lifts of south side soils have also been treated and backfi lled, and a fourth is ready for backfi lling. Monitoring of contamination levels in air, soil, and water are required to ensure that no additional release of contaminants occurs that might affect adjacent residential homes, Silver Bow Creek, or uncontaminated ground water. Signifi cant improvements in contaminants levels have been measured over the period of treatment. Objective Assist the State of Montana in the development and setup of an environmental monitoring network to ensure there is no offsite migration or release of site contaminants. Operate site water- treatment plant and perform monitoring and sampling activities to establish contaminant levels. Provide all environmental monitoring during site cleanup and construction activities. Approach Develop and implement a monitoring plan for the organization and execution of this remedial action plan. Monitor particulate levels and PCP and volatile organic compound concentrations from the site Land Treatment Unit (LTU) and construction activities. Collect samples of excavated soils, surface water (Silver Bow Creek), and ground water to test PCP concentrations; collect samples as necessary to aid construction activities. Conduct monthly monitoring of ground-water levels and thickness of free product (PCP and diesel fuel) on top of the water table. Modify the existing activated carbon treatment system to handle changes in bioremediation. Monitor infl uent and effl uent fl ows and PCP levels daily and weekly to ensure ground water being pumped is treated adequately for the removal of organic compounds. Progress during the 2004–2006 Biennium All planned remedial action construction activities have been completed and long-term operation and maintenance activities are ongoing. Environmental monitoring of site soils, ground water, local surface water, and air quality continues. A lift of treated soil was backfi lled, and additional excavated soils from south side construction remain on the LTU for treatment. Eight of the thirteen soil staging and pretreatment piles reached treatment levels and have been backfi lled into the south side excavated areas. The remaining fi ve are scheduled to be placed on the LTU after

24 Biennial Report of Activities and Programs, 2004–2006 the next ofﬂ oad. A study of the Near Creek Recovery Trench (northern ground water collection trench) is in progress to evaluate and reﬁ ne site capture. Information Products Interim reports (bi-monthly) and data compilations, with results of environmental monitoring and sampling, were submitted to the MDEQ. Site staff assisted in generating a mandatory EPA 5-year site review report. An electronic database is being developed to store environmental data. An annual report summarizing monitoring and sampling results has been prepared and is under review.

25 Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology

Project Title: Belt, Montana, Acid Mine Drainage Problem: Development of a Three-Dimensional Geographic Informa- tion System (GIS) Model and Baseline Monitoring Location: Cascade County Project Period: 2003–2008 Project Leader: Ted Duaime Project Staff: Mike Kerschen, Peter Norbeck, Susan Vuke, Kenneth Sandau, and Nick Tucci Funding Source: Montana Department of Environmental Quality (MDEQ) Issue Drainage of acidic, metal-laden water from abandoned underground coal mines in the Great Falls-Lewistown Coal Fields has been an ongoing, long-term problem. Drainage from the Cast- ner-Anaconda Coal Mine at Belt has caused considerable environmental damage to Belt Creek. Previous methods of mitigation, such as adit plugging and construction of wetlands, have failed. Objective Refi ne the previously developed three-dimensional model using available information to better understand the local geology, hydrogeology, and extent of the mine workings. Continue and expand the monitoring program to collect data on mine discharge quality and quantity and the local ground-water and surface-water quality and quantity. Approach Use previously compiled information on mine workings, exploration drilling, and local and regional geology and hydrogeology to establish data gaps and identify areas where more detailed information is necessary. Expand the existing monitoring network and equip selected sites with automated water-level and water-quality monitoring devices. Progress during the 2004–2006 Biennium: Installed 28 monitoring wells within the three main geologic units, and equipped a majority of the wells with automated pressure transducers for monitoring ground-water levels. Performed a seismic survey of areas overlying the mine workings in an attempt to better characterize site and mine conditions. Refi ned the three-dimensional GIS model by incorporating new data. Plans for the 2006–2008 Biennium: Continue to operate the existing monitoring program for the collection of water level, quality, and quantity information. Perform selected aquifer tests to better characterize the hydrogeologic conditions. Assist MDEQ in developing remediation alternatives to control discharge of acidic mine water. Information Products Interim reports are submitted monthly to MDEQ and a fi nal report will be completed and submitted. Duaime, T.E., Sandau, K.L., Vuke, S.M., Hanson, J., Reddish, S., and Reiten, J.C., 2004, Reevaluation of the hydrologic system in the vicinity of the Anaconda Mine at Belt, Cascade County, Montana: Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology Open-File Report 504, 116 p., 1 sheet. Gammons, C.H., Duaime, T.E., Parker, S.R., Grant, T.R., and Botsford, W.S., 2006, Geochemistry and hydrogeology of acid mine drainage in the Great Falls-Lewistown coal fi eld, Montana: Proceedings of the 7th International Conference on Acid Rock Drainage, St. Louis, MO, March, 2006, p. 630–647.

26 Biennial Report of Activities and Programs, 2004–2006

Botsford, W.S., and Duaime, T.E., 2004, Belt, Montana, acid mine drainage mitigation: Proceedings of The Advanced Integration of Geospatial Technologies in Mining and Reclamation, Atlanta, Georgia, December 2004. Botsford, B., and Duaime, T., 2005, New opportunities for solving acid mine drainage problems in rural Montana: Big Sky Clearwater, Vol. XXXV, Issue 1, Spring 2005. Botsford, W.S., Kennelly, P., and Duaime, T.E., 2005, Source control of acid mine drainage at Belt, Montana, and three-dimensional modeling with GIS, 27th Annual Conference National Association of Abandoned Mine Land Programs, Bristol, Virginia, September 18–21, 2005.

27 Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology

Project Title: Recharge Assessment of the Anaconda Mine near Belt, Montana Location: Belt, Montana and nearby area Project Period: August 8, 2002–December 31, 2004 Project Leader: Jon Reiten Project Staff: Shawn Reddish, Montana State University- Billings students, and Town of Belt Funding Source: Montana Department of Environmental Quality (MDEQ) 319 Grant and the MDEQ Abandoned Mine Program, Montana Water Center Issue Decades of underground coal mining have resulted in acid mine drainage (AMD), which is contaminating ground-water and surface-water resources at Belt. Although mining ended about 50 years ago, water with a pH of 2.94 is still issuing from mine workings adjacent to and near town. The AMD is lowering the pH of Belt Creek and increasing trace metals concentration in the stream. The creek cannot support fi sh below Belt and is discharging acidic, metal-laden water to the Missouri River. Objective By age dating ground water and mapping ground-water fl ow, the recharge source entering the mine may be determined. The overall goal is to restore the water quality of Belt Creek by reducing pollution, improving stream habitat, restoring native fi sh populations, and improving ground- water quality of the alluvial aquifer by improving the quality of the recharge. The goal of this project is to defi ne the hydrogeologic regime in the vicinity of Belt so that recharge to old mine workings, the source of acid mine drainage, can be delineated with a reasonable level of cer- tainty. Approach Age dating the water by testing for tritium and chlorofl uorocarbons will provide useful information for determining the source of recharge to abandoned mine workings, so that best-management practices can be developed to reduce generation of acidic discharges. Hydrogeologic data and water-quality information will be used to calculate changes in recharge rates, ground-water fl ow rates, and AMD discharges under various scenarios and combinations of cropping, dewatering, and other techniques found to be appropriate. Progress during the 2004–2006 Biennium: Completed fi nal report to Water Center, published an MBMG open-fi le report, and presented the results of the project at the Montana Section of American Water Resources Association conference, October 2006. Information Products Duaime, T.E., Sandau, K.L., Vuke, S.M., Hanson, J., Reddish, S., and Reiten, J.C., 2004, Reevaluation of the hydrologic system in the vicinity of the Anaconda Mine at Belt, Cascade County, Montana: Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology Open-File Report 504, 116 p., 1 sheet.

28 Biennial Report of Activities and Programs, 2004–2006

Project Title: Butte Mine Flooding Long-Term Monitoring Program Location: Silver Bow County Project Period: Ongoing since 1987 Project Leader: Ted Duaime Project Staff: John Metesh, Nick Tucci, Mike Kerschen, Pete Norbeck, and Marvin Miller Funding Source: Montana Department of Environmen- tal Quality (MDEQ) and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The regulatory agencies reached a settle- ment agreement with British Petroleum/Atlantic Richfi eld and Montana Resources Group that provides funding for this continued monitoring. Issue Rising ground-water levels in and adjacent to the abandoned underground mines and the Berke- ley Pit as a result of the 1982 suspension of mining. The rising ground water is acidic and highly contaminated with trace metals. Water levels have risen over 3,100 feet in the bedrock aquifer and continue to rise. Objective Provide assistance to the MDEQ and EPA in the collection of water-level and water-quality data, collect additional data associated with the suspension of mining, and provide results of monitoring and sampling activities to the general public. Review and evaluate data, identify changes and trends, and provide an annual update to the State, EPA, and the public. Approach Maintain a network (over 100 sites) of monitoring wells and mine shafts throughout the Butte basin. Collect weekly and monthly water-level data and semi-annual water-quality data. Compile and evaluate newly collected data for distribution to interested parties, e.g., local government and citizens, and prepare an annual update on water levels, water quality, and the effects, if any, on local ground water and/or surface water, in the area. Progress during the 2004–2006 Biennium: Continued operation of the long-term monitoring program described in the 2002 Consent Decree. Installed four new alluvial monitoring wells stipulated in the 2002 Consent Decree and equipped them with automated water-level monitoring equipment. Collected and analyzed water- quality samples from selected wells, surface waters, the Berkeley Pit, and mine shafts. Sampled and profi led the Berkeley Pit water column at least twice per year; collected and shipped bulk water samples from the Berkeley Pit to various parties throughout the U.S. Incorporated data collected during fi scal years 2003–2006 into existing databases and provided updates to interested parties on a monthly basis. Data were reviewed for changes in trends from previous results and added to the database. Prepared reports evaluating trends in water levels and water quality since fl ooding began in 1982. Plans for the 2006–2008 Biennium Continue operation of the existing ground-water and surface-water monitoring network, making modifi cations as necessary. Monitor the fl ow and quantity of water from the Horseshoe Bend drainage. Continue to review and analyze collected data and prepare annual updates on water levels and water quality. Participate in Butte–Silver Bow education program for the dissemination of information to the public. Collect bulk water samples from the Berkeley Pit for technology evaluations. New data will be entered into the existing databases.

29 Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology

Information Products Interim reports are submitted monthly to MDEQ. Duaime, T.E., Metesh, J.J., 2005, 2003 update of water-level monitoring and water-quality sampling, Butte underground mines and Berkeley Pit, Butte, Montana, 1982–2003: Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology Open-File Report 518, 112 p. Duaime, T.E., Metesh, J.J., 2005, 2004 consent decree update, water-level monitoring and water-quality sampling Butte underground mines and Berkeley Pit, Butte, Montana: Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology Open-File Report 527, 107 p. Gammons, C.H., Metesh, J.J., and Duaime, T.E., 2006, An overview of the mining history and geology of Butte, Montana: Mine water and the environment, V. 25, no. 2, June 2006. Gammons, C.H., and Duaime, T.E., 2006, Long-term changes in the limnology and geochemistry of the Berkeley Pit Lake, Butte, Montana: Mine water and the environment, V. 25, no. 2, June 2006.

30 Biennial Report of Activities and Programs, 2004–2006

Ground-Water Conditions and Special Studies

Project Title: Montana Ground-Water Monitoring Network Location: Statewide Project Period: Ongoing Project Leader: Tom Patton Project Staff: Don Mason, Mike Richter, Clay Schwartz, and Leonard Rinehart Funding Source: Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology, Ground-Water Assessment Program Issue Similar to streamfl ow and precipitation data, ground-water level and water-quality measurements must be collected over long periods of time to be useful. Long-term data allow managers and others to determine normal water levels in wells, changes in water levels relative to climatic conditions, responses of water levels to development, and long-term water-quality trends. Objective Create a network of water wells from which water-level and water-quality data can be collected and that will provide information on most areas and aquifers in Montana. Approach Strategically located water wells are periodically measured for water levels and sampled for water quality. In October 2006, there were 902 wells in the network and 100 water-level recorders. Water-level data are placed in the Ground-Water Information Center (GWIC) database shortly after measurements are made and are then easily retrievable by the citizens of Montana. Progress during the 2004–2006 Biennium Quarterly water-level data were obtained for fi scal years 2004 and 2006 and water-level recorders were maintained. Water-quality samples were collected and processed from 160 wells. The 2005 legislature provided one-time funding to replace failing water-level recorders with new instrumentation, and in 2006 14 recorders were replaced with pressure transducer systems. Water-level and water-quality data were placed in the GWIC database. Between July 1, 2004, and June 30, 2006, about 2,600 hydrographs were downloaded monthly from GWIC. Plans for the 2006–2008 Biennium Wells within the monitoring network will continue to be measured quarterly and water-level recorders will be serviced. Between 50 and 70 water-quality samples will be collected each year. Samples will be collected from selected water-level routes so that routes will have a common sampling date. Normalizing sampling dates by route will make future re-sampling of network wells more effi cient. Ten additional water-level recorders will be replaced with transducer systems. Data collected will be placed in the GWIC database and be retrievable through the GWIC website. Information Products Data collected from the monitoring network can be retrieved from the GWIC databases at http:// mbmggwic.mtech.edu, sending an email to [email protected], or contacting the Information Center by telephone at 406-496-4336. Patton, T.W., 2002, Water level monitoring and drought: April–June 2002. Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology Ground-Water Information Center water-level monitoring report.

31 Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology

Patton, T.W., 2002, Water level monitoring and drought: July–September 2002. Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology Ground-Water Information Center water-level monitoring report. Patton, T.W., 2002, Water level monitoring and drought: October–December 2002. Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology Ground-Water Information Center water-level monitoring report. Patton, T.W., 2003, Water level monitoring and drought: January–March 2003. Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology Ground-Water Information Center water-level monitoring report. Patton, T.W., 2003, Water level monitoring and drought: July–October 2003. Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology Ground-Water Information Center water-level monitoring report. Patton, T.W., 2004, Water level monitoring and drought: January–March 2004. Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology Ground-Water Information Center water-level monitoring report. Patton, T.W., 2005, Water level monitoring and drought: January–March 2005. Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology Ground-Water Information Center water-level monitoring report. Patton, T.W., 2006, Water level monitoring and drought: April–June 2006. Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology Ground-Water Information Center water-level monitoring report.

32 Biennial Report of Activities and Programs, 2004–2006

Project Title: Montana Ground-Water Information Center (GWIC) Location: Statewide Project Period: Ongoing Project Leader: Tom Patton Project Staff: Luke Buckley and student assistants Funding Source: Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology, Ground-Water Assessment Program Issue Ground-water information generated by projects, water-well drilling, water-quality sampling, and other activities must be accurately stored but easily accessible. There is increasing demand for ground-water data by government agencies, private industry, and the public. Each of these con- stituencies requires that the data be easily obtainable. Objective In the most effi cient way possible, make ground-water data available to those who need it. Store and maintain information about well construction, water levels, water chemistry, and the materials encountered during drilling. Approach Information about ground-water resources derived from driller’s logs, published reports, fi eld measurements, laboratory analyses, and other sources is placed in computer storage for retrieval by interested citizens, government agencies, and private industry. In October 2006, GWIC contained information on almost 203,500 wells, more than 19,700 water-quality analyses from ground-water sources, about 1.3 million water-level measurements from almost 11,000 locations, and records of materials encountered during drilling at more than 150,000 locations. The MBMG also offers interpretative services to people who need depth, yield, and water-quality information at potential well locations. Information from the database is available in a variety of formats, ranging from photocopies of water-well logs to retrievals of thousands of well records delivered over the Internet. Progress during the 2004–2006 Biennium More than 13,200 new water-well and monitoring-well records were added to the database. The GWIC website went online in January 1999, and there are now more than 12,100 individual reg- istered users (10,600 from Montana). In July–December 2002, customers logged in about 2,800 times each month to make approximately 19,000 queries. By January–June 2006, GWIC usage had increased to about 5,300 logins and 38,000 queries monthly. The 2001 legislature changed statute so that water-well drillers must now fi le water-well logs directly with the MBMG. This change also allowed drillers to fi le electronic copies of the water- well log. In March 2004, the MBMG implemented “DrillerWeb,” an on-line fi ling system for the water-well log. By September 30, 2006, 58 drilling contractors had certifi ed almost 3,900 well logs through the DrillerWeb system. The median time between construction of a well and the creation of the well log in DrillerWeb is 5 days. Once the record is completed, it takes the drillers about 35 days to certify the log and transfer it to GWIC. In June 2005, GWIC staff began scanning original well-log documents and adding the images to the GWIC website, and by October 2006 scanned images of about 32,500 well logs were available. Plans for the 2006–2008 Biennium The MBMG will continue to add new well-log, water-quality, water-level, Characterization Pro- gram products, and other ground-water information to the GWIC database. The website will continue to be enhanced to make additional reports and data available. Documents will continue to be scanned and images added to the database.

33 Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology

Project Title: Middle Yellowstone River Area Ground- Water Characterization Study Location: Yellowstone and Treasure counties, exclusive of the Crow Reservation Project Period: July 1996–June 1999 (fi eld work); 2001– present (map and atlas production) Project Leader: Tom Patton Project Staff: John LaFave, Larry Smith, Camela Carstar- phen, Don Mason, James Rose, Jon Reiten, John Olsen, Joe Lalley, and Clarence Schwartz Funding Source: Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology, Ground-Water Assessment Program Issue Insuffi cient information is hampering efforts to properly manage, protect, and develop ground- water resources. Objective Provide information to landowners and decision makers about management, protection, and development of ground-water resources by systematically assessing and documenting the hydrogeology and quality of individual aquifers. Approach Compile information on the geology and ground-water resources, map aquifer distributions, visit selected wells to measure water levels and basic water-quality parameters, conduct additional testing to determine aquifer properties, and collect and analyze ground-water samples to evaluate water quality and better understand ground-water fl ow systems. Progress during the 2004–2006 Biennium With the release of Ground-Water Assessment Atlas 3, Part B, maps 3 and 5, four of the seven planned maps for this study area are available. Work has been completed on maps 2, 4, and 6, all of which are in review. The manuscript for Ground-Water Assessment Atlas 3, Part A, Descriptive overview and water-quality data, is about 25 percent complete. Plans for the 2006–2008 Biennium Ground-Water Assessment Atlas 3, Part B, maps 2, 4, and 6 will be released. Ground-Water Resources of the Middle Yellowstone River area, Part A, Descriptive overview and water-quality data will be released. Information Products Hydrogeologic data obtained from the visitation of wells and static-water level data for monitored wells are available to the citizens of Montana from the Ground-Water Information Center database. Olson, J.L., and Reiten, J.C., 2002, Data for water wells visited during the Middle Yellowstone River Area ground-water characterization study, Treasure and Yellowstone counties, Montana (open-fi le version): Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology Ground- Water Assessment Atlas 3B-01, scale 1:200,000. Olson, J.L., and Reiten, J.C., 2003, Characterization of the Eagle Aquifer in Yellowstone County, Middle Yellowstone River Area, Montana: Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology Ground-Water Assessment Atlas 3B-07, scale 1:150,000.

34 Biennial Report of Activities and Programs, 2004–2006

Olson, J.L., 2005, Characterization of alluvial aquifers in Treasure and Yellowstone counties, Middle Yellowstone River Area, Montana (open-ﬁ le version): Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology Ground-Water Assessment Atlas 3B-03, 1 sheet, 1:50,000. Olson, J.L., and Svingen, R.R., 2006, Characterization of the Judith River aquifer, middle Yellowstone River area, Yellowstone and Treasure counties, Montana (open-ﬁ le version): Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology Ground-Water Assessment Atlas 3B-05, 1 sheet, 1:175,000.

35 Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology

Project Title: Lolo-Bitterroot Area Ground-Water Charac- terization Study Location: Mineral, Missoula, and Ravalli Counties Project Period: July 1998–June 2001 (fi eld work); 2001– present (map and atlas production) Project Leader: Tom Patton Project Staff: John LaFave, Larry Smith, Camela Carstar- phen, Don Mason, Mike Richter, and Karl Pracht Funding Source: Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology, Ground-Water Assessment Program Issue Insuffi cient information is hampering efforts to properly manage, protect, and develop ground- water resources. Objective Provide information to landowners and decision makers about management, protection, and development of ground-water resources by systematically assessing and documenting the hydrogeology and quality of individual aquifers. Approach Compile information on the geology and ground-water resources, map aquifer distributions, visit selected wells to measure water levels and basic water-quality parameters, conduct additional testing to determine aquifer properties, and collect and analyze ground-water samples to evaluate water quality and better understand ground-water fl ow systems. Progress during the 2004–2006 Biennium Nine of the ten maps for the Ground-Water Assessment Atlas 4, Part B, were released, and Map 4, Altitude of bedrock surface: northern Lolo-Bitterroot area, is in fi nal review. The manuscript for Ground-Water Assessment Atlas No. 4, Part A, Descriptive overview and water-quality data, is about 50 percent complete. Program staff made 12 presentations to local and statewide groups about the hydrogeology of Mineral, Missoula, and Ravalli Counties. Plans for the 2006–2008 Biennium Ground-Water Assessment Atlas 4, Part B, Map 4 will be released in the fall of 2006. Ground- Water Assessment Atlas 4, Part A, descriptive overview and water-quality data will be completed and released. Information Products Hydrogeologic data obtained from the visitation of wells and static-water level data for monitored wells are available to the citizens of Montana from the Ground-Water Information Center database. LaFave, J.I., 2002, Tracing ground-water fl ow in the Missoula valley aquifer, southwest Montana: Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology Ground-Water Open-File Report 17, 16 p (partly funded by the Montana Water Center). Carstarphen, C.A., Mason, D.M., Smith, L.N., LaFave, J.I., and Richter, M.G., 2003, Data for water wells visited during the Lolo-Bitterroot area ground-water characterization study (open-fi le version): Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology Ground-Water Assessment Atlas 4B-01. Smith, L.N., 2006, Hydrologic framework of the Lolo-Bitterroot area, Mineral, Missoula, and Ravalli counties, Montana (open-fi le version): Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology Ground-Water Assessment Atlas 4B-02, 1 sheet.

36 Biennial Report of Activities and Programs, 2004–2006

Smith, L.N., 2006, Thickness of Quaternary unconsolidated deposits in the Lolo-Bitterroot area, Mineral, Missoula, and Ravalli counties, Montana (open-fi le version): Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology Ground-Water Assessment Atlas 4B-03, 1 sheet, 1:125,000. Smith, L.N., 2006, Altitude of the bedrock surface in the Bitterroot Valley, Missoula and Ravalli Counties, Montana (open-fi le version): Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology Ground-Water Assessment Atlas 4B-05, 1 sheet, 1:125,000. LaFave, J.I., 2006, Potentiometric surface of the basin-fi ll and bedrock aquifers, Mineral and Missoula counties, Montana (open-fi le version): Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology Ground-Water Assessment Atlas 4B-06, 1 sheet, 1:100,000. LaFave, J.I., 2006, Ground-water quality in basin-fi ll and bedrock aquifers, Mineral and Missoula counties, western Montana (open-fi le version): Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology Ground-Water Assessment Atlas 4B-07, 1 sheet, 1:500,000. LaFave, J.I., 2006, Potentiometric surface of the shallow basin-fi ll, deep basin-fi ll, and bedrock aquifers, Bitterroot Valley, Missoula and Ravalli counties, western Montana (open-fi le version): Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology Ground-Water Assessment Atlas 4B-08, 1 sheet, 1:500,000. LaFave, J.I., 2006, Ground-water quality in shallow basin-fi ll, deep basin-fi ll and bedrock aquifers, Bitterroot Valley, Missoula and Ravalli counties, southwest Montana (open-fi le version): Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology Ground-Water Assessment Atlas 4B- 09, 1 sheet, 1:500,000. Smith, L.N., 2006, Patterns of water-level fl uctuations, Lolo-Bitterroot area, Mineral, Missoula, and Ravalli Counties, Montana (open-fi le version): Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology Ground-Water Assessment Atlas 4B-10, 1 sheet, 1:350,000.

37 Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology

Project Title: Upper Clark Fork River Area Ground-Water Characterization Study Location: Deer Lodge, Granite, Powell, and Silver Bow counties Project Period: July 2000–June 2003 (fi eld work); 2003– present (map and atlas production) Project Leader: Tom Patton Project Staff: John LaFave, Larry Smith, Camela Carstar- phen, Don Mason, Mike Richter, and Leonard Rinehart Funding Source: Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology, Ground-Water Assessment Program Issue Insuffi cient information is hampering efforts to properly manage, protect, and develop ground- water resources. Objective Provide information to landowners and decision makers about management, protection, and development of ground-water resources by systematically assessing and documenting the hydrogeology and quality of individual aquifers. Approach Compile information on the geology and ground-water resources, map aquifer distributions, visit selected wells to measure water levels and basic water-quality parameters, conduct additional testing to determine aquifer properties, and collect and analyze ground-water samples to evaluate water quality and better understand ground-water fl ow systems. Progress during the 2004–2006 Biennium Field data were reviewed and edited in preparation for Ground-Water Assessment Atlas No. 5, Part B map production. Geologic base map compilation is about 70 percent complete. Water- quality data have been checked and work on the fi rst water-quality map is about 20 percent complete. Plans for the 2006–2008 Biennium Preparation of Ground-Water Assessment Atlas 5, Part B maps will continue and open-fi le versions of the maps will be released. Information Products Hydrogeologic data obtained from the visitation of wells and current static-water level data for monitored wells are available to the citizens of Montana from the Ground-Water Information Center database. Carstarphen, C.A., Mason, D.C., Smith, L.N., LaFave, J.I., and Richter, M.G., 2004, Data for water wells visited during the Upper Clark Fork River area Ground-Water Characterization study: Deer Lodge, Granite, and Silver Bow Counties (open-fi le version): Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology Ground-Water Assessment Atlas 5B- 01. Carstarphen, C.A., LaFave, J.I., and Patton, T.W., 2004, Water levels and nitrate in Warne Heights, Upper Summit Valley, Silver Bow County, Montana: Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology Ground-Water Open-File Report 18, 50 p.

38 Biennial Report of Activities and Programs, 2004–2006

Project Title: Carbon-Stillwater Ground-Water Character- ization Study (formerly the Clark’s Fork of the Yellowstone River Ground-Water Characterization Study) Location: Carbon and Stillwater Counties Project Period: July 2002–June 2005 (fi eld work) Project Leader: Tom Patton Project Staff: John LaFave, Larry Smith, Camela Carstar- phen, Don Mason, Mike Richter, and John Olson. Funding Source: Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology, Ground-Water Assessment Program Issue Insuffi cient information is hampering efforts to properly manage, protect, and develop ground- water resources. Objective Provide information to landowners and decision makers about management, protection, and development of ground-water resources by systematically assessing and documenting the hydrogeology and quality of individual aquifers. Approach Compile information on the geology and ground-water resources, map aquifer distributions, visit selected wells to measure water levels and basic water-quality parameters, conduct additional testing to determine aquifer properties, and collect and analyze ground-water samples to evaluate water quality and better understand ground-water fl ow systems. Progress during the 2004–2006 Biennium Staff visited 515 of the more than 1,000 wells inventoried as part of the project during the previous biennium. They also collected 231 water-quality samples during the project, 112 during the 2004–2006 biennium. Preparation of Ground-Water Assessment Atlas 6, Part B, Map 1, Basic data for the Carbon-Stillwater characterization area, has been completed and the map is in review. The monthly monitoring network established at the beginning of the project was dis- continued in December 2005. Selected wells from the monthly network were transferred to the statewide network to improve statewide network coverage in Carbon and Stillwater Counties. Plans for the 2006–2008 Biennium The basic data map will be released in 2006. Preparation of Ground-Water Assessment Atlas 6, Part B maps will begin when work is completed on the Middle Yellowstone River, Lolo-Bitterroot, and Upper Clark Fork River area atlases. Information Products Hydrogeologic data obtained from the visitation of wells and current static-water level data for monitored wells are available to the citizens of Montana from the Ground-Water Information Center database.

39 Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology

Project Title: Cascade-Teton Ground-Water Characteriza- tion Study Location: Cascade and Teton Counties Project Period: April 2005–December 2007 (fi eld work) Project Leader: Tom Patton Project Staff: John LaFave, Larry Smith, Camela Carstar- phen, Don Mason, and Mike Richter Funding Source: Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology, Ground-Water Assessment Program Issue Insuffi cient information is hampering efforts to properly manage, protect, and develop ground- water resources. Objective Provide information to landowners and decision makers about the management, protection, and development of ground-water resources by systematically assessing and documenting the hydrogeology and water quality of individual aquifers. Approach Compile information on the geology and ground-water resources, map aquifer distributions, visit selected wells to measure water levels and basic water-quality parameters, conduct additional testing to determine aquifer properties, and collect and analyze ground-water samples to evaluate water quality and better understand ground-water fl ow systems. Progress during the 2004–2006 Biennium Field staff visited more than 400 wells and collected about 140 water-quality samples. A network of 48 wells was measured monthly. A special project to track nitrate concentrations in water from aquifers along the Missouri River between Cascade and Great Falls was completed using funds provided by the Cascade County Health Department. Plans for the 2006–2008 Biennium An additional 200–300 wells will be visited by the time fi eld work is completed in December 2007. A basic data map will be compiled and released in the spring of 2008. Information Products Hydrogeologic data obtained from the visitation of wells and current static-water level data for monitored wells are available to the citizens of Montana from the Ground-Water Information Center database.

40 Biennial Report of Activities and Programs, 2004–2006

Project Title: Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) Technical Data Location: Statewide Project Period: September 2004–September 2009 Project Leader: Tom Patton Project Staff: John LaFave, Larry Smith, Gary Icopini, Pete Norbeck, and Bob Bergantino Funding Source: NRCS, 50 percent and the Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology, Ground-Water Assessment Program, 50 percent Issue Farm and ranch operators are continuously seeking new stockwater supplies in the face of changing operation plans, drought, and other factors. At some locations, operators also use fl owing artesian wells as water sources. Problems with fl owing artesian wells include winteriza- tion (so they can be shut in when not in use) and leakage around the casing at the land surface in some cases. The NRCS provides cost share funds through its Environmental Quality Incen- tives Program (EQIP) program to help operators seek new stockwater supplies and repair fl owing artesian wells. The EQIP program requires specifi c technical information regarding potential well depths and fi eld evaluations of uncontrolled fl owing artesian wells before cost share funds can be obligated. Objective Improve the quality of and deliver technical information to the NRCS regarding potential well depths at selected locations and evaluate selected fl owing artesian wells to determine rehabili- tation or abandonment procedures. New data collected during project activity are added to the Ground-Water Information Center (GWIC) database. Approach The MBMG uses the GWIC database and geologic maps to determine potential aquifers and estimated drilling depths at locations where NRCS cooperators desire to construct stockwater wells. The information is compiled into a short written report that is forwarded to the NRCS fi eld offi ce making the request. At the request of the NRCS, MBMG staff will visit selected fl owing artesian wells to record the well’s precise location, measure water-quality parameters, measure discharge, evaluate well-head leakage, and video-log borehole conditions to 600 ft below land surface. The fi eld data are compiled and a written report prepared outlining options for rehabili- tation or abandonment of the well. Information collected from fi eld visits is returned to the GWIC database. Because access to GWIC and the data it contains is critical to the success of the NRCS technical data project, data entry and update activity in GWIC serves as in-kind match to the NRCS share. Progress during the 2004–2006 Biennium Project staff wrote 465 geology reports for proposed stockwater wells and 7 fl owing well rehabili- tation reports. Data gathered during fi eld work were added to the GWIC database. Plans for the 2006–2008 Biennium As requested by the NRCS, MBMG staff will continue to write geology and fl owing well reports. Information gathered will be added to the GWIC database. Information Products Hydrogeologic data obtained from the visitation of wells and updates to GWIC from other new information are available to the citizens of Montana from the GWIC database.

41 Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology

Project Title: Yellowstone Controlled Ground-Water Area Location: Southwest Montana, near Yellowstone Park Project Period: Ongoing since 1995 Project Leaders: John Metesh and Mike Kerschen Project Staff: Phyllis Hargrave and Nick Tucci Funding Source: National Park Service Issue Development of ground-water resources near Yellowstone Park may adversely affect the geothermal resources of the park. In 1994, the State of Montana and the National Park Service established a controlled ground-water area within Montana. The National Park Service has entered into a cooperative agreement with the MBMG to conduct several investigations which include: an inventory of wells and springs, and evaluation of ground-water resources in the Soda Butte Creek drainage, and an evaluation of watersheds within the controlled ground-water area, including mapping of surfi - cial and bedrock geology. About 330 spring sites were visited and documented; site location and chemistry data from the latest study and from previous investigations were compiled and are listed in the MBMG Ground-Water Information Center database. In a related study, the MBMG has mapped and compiled data on bedrock and surfi cial deposits within the controlled ground- water area; these data, in map form, are published separately. Chemistry from springs and wells throughout the study area refl ect a complex system of ground-water recharge, deep circulation near the Yellowstone caldera, and geothermal discharge through a wide variety of rock types. Mixing of geothermal waters with shallow colder water is evident in the chemistry and isotope analytical results. Hydrogeologic and geochemical changes in the geothermal system of Yellow- stone National Park and the greater Yellowstone area are inevitable. Distinctions between man- induced changes and natural processes cannot be made without comprehensive surface-water and ground-water monitoring both inside and outside the Park. Objective To collect data related to water-well levels, spring discharge, and water chemistry for both to provide a base for monitoring natural and man-induced changes to the Yellowstone geothermal system. Approach The National Park Service has provided funding to begin monitoring wells and springs within the controlled ground-water area in Montana. These data will be used in conjunction with data collected within the park to assess long-term trends and changes to ground-water and surface- water fl ow and quality related to the geothermal system. Progress during the 2004–2006 Biennium A monitoring plan was submitted to and approved by the technical oversight committee; funding was secured in 2005. The fi rst monitoring sites were installed in the summer of 2005. Plans for the 2006–2008 Biennium Additional monitoring sites will be phased in over a 5-year period. Information Products All inventory and chemistry data are available through the MBMG Ground-Water Information Center. Metesh, J.J., English, A.E., Lonn, J.D., Kendy, E., and Parrett, C., 1999, Hydrogeology of the Upper Soda Butte Creek Basin, Montana, Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology Report of Investigation 7, 66 p.

42 Biennial Report of Activities and Programs, 2004–2006

Metesh, J.J., and Kougioulis, J., 2000, Well inventory and baseline sampling, Yellowstone National Park controlled ground-water area, Montana: Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology Report of Investigation 8, 25 p. Metesh, J.J., 2004, Spring inventory and baseline sampling of the Yellowstone controlled ground-water area: Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology Open-File Report 510, 54 p.

43 Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology

Project Title: Big Hole Watershed Management Project Location: Upper Big Hole Basin, Wisdom–Jackson Area Project Period: September 2003–December 2006 Project Leaders: Ginette Abdo and John Metesh Funding Source: U.S. Bureau of Reclamation Issue Natural and human-induced changes in water-resource availability have caused increased concern about how to best manage the limited water resources of the Big Hole River basin. Hay pastures near Wisdom and Jackson that used to be irrigated only in the spring and early summer are now irrigated throughout the summer to support increased grazing. For- estry and agricultural practices have altered vegetation patterns and thus altered the hydrology of the basin. Recent droughts and elevated summer temperatures have heightened concern about the survival of fl uvial Arctic grayling and other fi shery resources in the river. This project is a continuation of the work performed in 2003. Objective To increase the understanding of how ground water and surface water interact and assess the infl uence of using tributary steam fl ow to irrigate fi elds on the basin’s hydrology. Approach A fi eld site was selected on the west side of the Big Hole River basin between Wisdom and Jackson, to help further understand the upper basin’s hydrologic framework. Ground-water and surface-water measurements were made during the 2004 and 2006 fi eld seasons. Climatic data from a weather station were also collected. Ground-water and surface-water measurements will be made and climatic data will be collected through November 2006. These data will be used to evaluate a water balance for the study area. Progress during the 2004–2006 Biennium Ground-water levels were measured monthly during the winter and every 2 weeks during the growing season (April through October). In addition, synoptic runs (where ground water and surface water were monitored at the same time) were performed monthly from May through October in 2005 and 2006 to better assess surface-water infl ows and outfl ows to the system. A Global Positioning System was used to accurately determine the elevation of monitoring points. Plans for the 2006–2008 Biennium Aquifer tests will be performed on a select group of wells to determine the hydraulic characteristics of the aquifer. Ground-water quality parameters, such as pH, specifi c conductance, temperature, and iron will also be measured in the fi eld. Data will be compiled and evaluated, and a report will be written summarizing the results. Information Products The project will produce a report summarizing the fi eld efforts and results. The report will be submitted to the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation and the Big Hole Watershed Committee, and will be made available to the public.

44 Biennial Report of Activities and Programs, 2004–2006

Project Title: Watershed and Ecosystems: Learning in a Backyard Classroom Location: Ramsay, Montana Project Period: January 2005–August 2007 Project Leader: Ginette Abdo Funding Source: Montana Natural Resource Damage Assessment Program Issue The project was initiated because of the timing of the remediation along Silver Bow Creek, which has its head- waters in Butte and fl ows through several small communities before discharging into the Clark Fork River near Opportunity, Montana. Silver Bow Creek and its fl oodplain have been impacted by mining wastes for over 100 years. The area forms the Silver Bow Creek Operable Unit, which is part of the Butte Area National Priority List site. The State of Montana is currently remediating the fl oodplain and creek. During 2004, cleanup of the creek began in the Ramsay Flats area, the largest expanse of mine tailings in the Operable Unit. Objective Educate Ramsay School students about the environment in which they live and relate it to history, science, math, and other disciplines so that the experience is interesting and relevant to the students. The students will be able to see and learn about the mining impacts before and after remediation within a short walk of the school. Approach Teaching materials and lesson plans were developed for use in grades K through 5. Field trips were included to enforce concepts such as ecosystem, watershed, and water cycle. The con- cept of determining stream health by monitoring macro-invertebrates, vegetation, and chemical parameters was also included. Students in grades 3 through 6 helped plant willows along the reconstructed fl oodplain near the school in the spring of 2005. Progress during the 2004–2006 Biennium Grades K through 5 participated in this project during the spring term in 2004 and 2005. Grades 6 through 8 followed the Clark Fork Watershed Education Project approach, which focuses on the same concepts as this project. Plans for the 2006–2008 Biennium This project was extended through August 2007, and will be integrated into the classroom in a limited capacity as funding allows. A report will be prepared to summarize the project results and effectiveness. Information Products The project will produce a report summarizing the approach, effectiveness, and results. The report will be submitted to the Montana Natural Resource Damage Program, and will be made available to the public.

45 Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology

Project Title: Salinity Risk Model for the Bullhead Valley Method and Results for Integrating Sustainable Agriculture with Water-Quality Protection Location: Bullhead region of the Marias River watershed Project Period: July 2004–July 2006 Project Leader: Kathleen Miller Project Staff: Jay Hanson and Jon Reiten Funding Source: Montana Department of Environmental Quality Issue Located in Montana’s Golden Triangle, the Bullhead area of the Marias River watershed is the testing ground for the salinity risk model. The Bullhead area was chosen as the demonstration site because of the occurrence of dryland and irrigated salinity in the area and because of the large amount of available ground-water information produced by the Montana Salinity Control Association. Objective The primary objective was to produce a method of analysis that would assess shallow ground water as it relates to agricultural practices and water-quality protection. If developed, the method would be useful to participating Conservation Districts and is transferable to the rest of the Golden Triangle region and the glaciated Northern Plains region of Montana. Approach The model was created using the basic land unit of a section. Each section can be identifi ed through the township grid, and producers and land managers can identify the saline seep risk. The model identifi es the primary environmental variables that infl uence saline seep formation by assigning a ranking system to the variables; the results are a model showing the sections that are at high risk for saline seep formation. Progress during the 2004–2006 Biennium As many as fi ve data layers were integrated to produce a salinity risk model. Although limited fi eld checking has demonstrated model accuracy in predicting dryland salinity, the fi nal evaluation of the accuracy and utility of the model could be accomplished during the site assessment for implementing Best Management Practices. Available assessments and research have shown that virtually all salinity problems occur in shallow ground-water systems in surfi cial geological units. Most of the perennial streams in this portion of the watershed are gaining, that is, receiving a portion of their fl ow from ground water. Hence, the interruption of the hydraulic connection between ground water and surface water is critical to the reduction of salinity and nutrient concentrations in surface water. The soils and surfi cial geologic deposits are derived mostly from mineral-rich glacial ground-moraine deposits (till) and lesser amounts of stream-deposited sediments (outwash, inwash, and terrace deposits). Land use in this area is primarily dryland, small-grain production using the crop/fallow farming system. The methodology for mitigating dryland salinity and saline seeps is well proven and involves planting vegetation in ground-water recharge areas to prevent excess water from migrating downward into the saturated zone. The shallow ground-water assessment map will serve as a layman-friendly system of ranking major physical characteristics with respect to areas at high risk for salinization and/or saline seep development and prioritizing the location of drilling projects for salinity control. Information Products A fi nal report was submitted to Montana Department of Environmental Quality in 2006.

46 Biennial Report of Activities and Programs, 2004–2006

Project Title: Helena Valley Ground Water: Pharmaceuti- cals, Personal Care Products, Endocrine Disruptors, and Microbial Indicators of Fecal Contamination Location: Helena Valley Project Period: October 2004–December 2005 Project Leaders: Kathleen J. Miller and Joseph Meek, Montana Department of Environmental Quality Funding Source: Montana Water Center, Bozeman Issue The city of Helena and its surrounding valley are experiencing marked population growth with attendant proliferation of onsite wastewater disposal (septic tanks and drainfi elds) systems. This wastewater contains pharmaceutically active compounds, personal care products, and endocrine disrupting compounds (PPCP as used here) that can degrade ground-water quality. The effects of chronic exposure and ingestion of PPCPs at µg/L or mg/L concentrations on human physiology are mostly unknown because there are potential synergistic or additive effects from exposure and ingestion of PPCP mixtures at the levels found in the Helena valley. The effects of PPCPs on aquatic biology have been shown to be signifi cant at these levels. Since the ground water ultimately discharges to the Missouri River, it is hoped that effects on human health and aquatic ecosystems can be better understood. Objective To demonstrate the appropriateness and effectiveness of using somatic and male-specifi c (F+) coliphage, Escherichia coli, and Enterolert enterococci as indicators of fecal contamination of ground water used by small public water supplies in southwestern Montana. Approach This work was conducted as part of a collaborative effort between the Montana Department of Environmental Quality, the Lewis and Clark County Water Quality Protection District, the Mon- tana Department of Public Health and Human Services, and the MBMG. The two most frequently detected compounds, sulfamethoxazole (SMX) and atrazine, were found at frequencies of 80% and 40% of samples, respectively. A comparison of SMX and atrazine with chloride, total dissolved solids (TDS), and nitrate shows that atrazine demonstrates a strong correlation with chloride and TDS, two typical inorganic indicators of ground-water degradation from domestic wastewater. Further sampling and analysis of septic tank effl uent should be conducted to verify whether atrazine is occurring in domestic wastewater. While there are limited detections of total coliform and Enterolert enterococci, PPCPs are con- sistently detected in the absence of either somatic or F+ coliphage as well as Escherichia coli. These results present implications for the suitability of coliphage and Escherichia coli as indicators of fecal contamination in ground water. Total coliform, though detected at only 8 sites, was superior to coliphage as a fecal-waste indicator organism in this ground-water setting. Progress during the 2004–2006 Biennium In the summer and fall of 2005, 38 public and private domestic water supplies deriving ground water from the Quaternary/Tertiary valley-fi ll aquifer and various bedrock formations were sampled for PPCP. The project was completed and a fi nal report submitted to the Montana Water Center, Bozeman. Information Products Miller, K.J., and Meeks, J., 2006, Helena Valley ground water: Pharmaceuticals, personal care products, endocrine disruptors (PPCPs), and microbial indicators of fecal contamination: Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology Open-File Report 532, 20 p.

47 Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology

Project Title: Water-Quality Monitoring in the Big Muddy Watershed, Sheridan County, Montana Location: Sheridan County Project Period: September 2003–December 2006 Project Leader: Jon Reiten Project Staff: Shawn Reddish, Montana State Univer- stiy-Billings students, Jay Hanson, and Sheridan County Conservation District staff (SCCD) Funding Source: Montana Department of Environmental Quality (MDEQ) 319 Grant, SCCD, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services, and the Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology Issue The stream is listed as “Partial Use Support” for aquatic life and a warm water fi shery. Causes of degradation are listed as trace metals, nutrients, organic enrichment/low dissolved oxygen, sediment, and riparian degradation. Sources of degradation have been identifi ed by the MDEQ as dryland farming, grazing, hydromodifi cation, and fl ow regulation/modifi cation. Sources of degradation suggested by the SCCD are natural ground-water discharge, minor impacts from dryland farming, grazing, feedlots, diversions, and sewage lagoon discharges. Landowners, Fort Peck Tribes, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services, SCCD, Roosevelt County Conservation District, Natu- ral Resources Conservation Service, and others are in the process of developing a Watershed Group. Objective The goal of this project is to gather information needed to characterize the quality of water in the Big Muddy. Approach Samples of surface water and ground water will be collected periodically in the Big Muddy drainage, providing an estimate of the proportions of the salt load from major tributaries in the Sheridan County part of the watershed. Geology, land use, soils, surface-water diversions, and agricultural impacts will be compared between tributaries in an attempt to develop an understanding of potential sources of salts, metals, nutrients, suspended sediment and other contaminants. The information gathered by this project will enable the development of Best Management Practices (BMPs) for land use, diversions, and agricultural development. The SCCD will sponsor workshops and a demonstration tour for local producers, focusing on project results and recommendations. Progress during the 2004–2006 Biennium Collected available data and started detailed water-quality monitoring at 15 sites along the Big Muddy. Project was suspended by the MDEQ in the fall of 2005; MBMG received authority to resume work in September 2006 to summarize activities to date. Plans for the 2006–2008 Biennium Summarize work completed. Continue monitoring program and collect water-quality samples along the creek as recommended by the MDEQ. Evaluate and collect additional data as required. Develop and prepare reports to assist the developing BMPs. Information Products Project completion reports and open-fi le reports. GIS maps are being developed showing extent of contamination, impact on water resources, and status of cleanup.

48 Biennial Report of Activities and Programs, 2004–2006

Project Title: Rehabilitating Flowing Wells in the Big Spring Watershed, Fergus County Location: Fergus County Project Period: July 1999–December 2004 Project Leader: Jon Reiten Project Staff: Jay Hanson and Fergus County Conserva- tion District staff Funding Source: Private landowners, Fergus County Conservation District, Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), U.S. Environmental Protection Agency 319 Grant, and the Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology Issue Landowners have noticed a decline in aquifer pressure and productivity. This decline is caused by allowing wells to fl ow uncontrolled for many years. Objective Document major aquifers and conserve water in the fl owing artesian aquifers. Approach Reduce fl ows by rehabilitating wells or plugging unused wells and wells that cannot be economically repaired. Monitor project success by measuring aquifer pressures. Progress during the 2004–2006 Biennium Collected and compiled data on major aquifers and developed aquifer and ground-water fl ow maps. Final reports were completed and submitted to the Montana Department of Environmen- tal Quality and DNRC; comments on the fi nal report are being addressed. Plans for the 2006–2008 Biennium Complete project and develop fi nal report. A new Natural Resource Conservation Service-spon- sored project is currently being established to conduct similar work on a statewide basis. Information Products Proposed MBMG open-fi le report or report of investigation.

49 Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology

Project Title: Irrigation Potential of Ground Water Underly- ing the Lower Yellowstone Valley in Richland County Location: Richland County Project Period: July 2004–December 2006 Project Leader: Jon Reiten Project Staff: Justin Brown, Montana State University-Bill- ings students, Jay Hanson, and Richland County Conser- vation District (RCCD) staff Funding Source: Montana Department of Natural Resources (DNRC) Renewable Resource Grant, U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, City of Sidney, Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology, DNRC irrigation-development program, Montana Department of Agriculture, Richland County, and the City of Fairview Issue To identify ground-water resources in a buried-channel aquifer underlying parts of the Yellow- stone River Valley in Richland County. The aquifer is best defi ned near Sidney where it supplies the city with good quality water from seven high-yield wells. Another well fi eld approximately 10 miles to the north supplies water to the city of Fairview. Little is known about the location or character of the aquifer under the valley between these two water supplies. The aquifer has also been encountered in several wells south of Sidney. Objective Defi ne the location and character of the aquifer to facilitate development of this resource for irrigation without signifi cantly impacting other water users in the Valley. Based on water-use records from the city of Sidney, this aquifer has a good potential for additional development. The city of Sidney is concerned that additional water development may impact their existing well fi eld and reduce their potential for expansion. As a result, the city is interested in obtaining information on this aquifer system that would allow them to protect their water resource while promoting economic development through additional irrigation development. Approach The RCCD proposes to conduct an exploratory test-drilling program, install test wells, sample water quality at many of these wells, and collect additional ground-water data to defi ne the extent of this aquifer. This information will provide the framework to guide future development of this resource and allow partnerships with State and Federal agencies to wisely manage ground- water development. Progress during the 2004–2006 Biennium Collected available data and developed aquifer maps to help guide the exploration process. Conducted well inventory targeting areas believed to be underlain by the aquifer. Determine approximate drilling locations. Plans for the 2006–2008 Biennium Install test wells. Information Products Project completion reports and open-fi le reports. GIS maps are being developed showing the extent of the aquifer and will be enhanced by new drilling information.

50 Biennial Report of Activities and Programs, 2004–2006

Project Title: Meadowlark Park Wetlands Hydrogeology Location: Billings Heights in Yellowstone County Project Period: September 1, 2003–December 31, 2005 Project Leader: Jon Reiten Project Staff: Jenny Erickson and Jay Hanson Funding Source: U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, City of Bill- ings Park Department, and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services Issue Meadowland Park is being assessed for development as an enhanced wetland. The wetland is currently undevel- oped, but has been partially fi lled with road sweepings and other fi ll material. A new subdivision is being developed partially on artifi cial fi ll north of the park. Neighbors are concerned about impacts of development on wetland and individual properties. Objective The proposed project will assess the hydrology and geology of the wetland. This information will help land managers develop and maintain a healthy wetland based on sound scientifi c data. Nearby landowners are concerned about the impacts of development on wetlands and individual properties. The three major project goals that will focus on determining the wetland hydrology of Meadow- land Park include: 1. characterizing the hydrogeologic conditions in and around the wetland; 2. mapping ground-water/ surface-water interconnection and fl ow through the wetland; and 3. monitoring water-level fl uctuations and surface-water fl ow. Progress during the 2004–2006 Biennium Completed an inventory of water resources in the Meadowlark Park area. Installed 22 monitoring wells and conducted a monitoring program to evaluate hydrogeologic fl uctuations in the area. Field water-quality data were collected from each well by measuring fi eld parameters including water temperature, specifi c conductance, pH, dissolved oxygen, and nitrate concentration. All well inventory data collected were entered into the MBMG Ground-Water Information Center (GWIC) database and are available to the public over the Internet. The test wells were used to map ground-water fl ow and monitor water-level fl uctuations. Several of the wells were completed with a water-level recorder to continuously monitor fl uctuations. Additional funds were secured to continue monitoring for 2006. Assistance was received from the City and the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation to accomplish the monitoring. All monitoring data have been entered into GWIC for future retrieval and data evaluation. Plans for the 2006–2008 Biennium Complete fi nal project report. Information Products A fi nal report will compile all data and interpretations. The results will be used to help develop the enhanced wetland.

51 Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology

Project Title: Sheridan County Aquifer and Surface-Water Monitoring and Modeling Location: Sheridan County Project Period: Ongoing since October 30, 2003 Project Leader: Jon Reiten Project Staff: Shawn Reddish, Montana State Univer- sity-Billings students, and Sheridan County Conservation District (SCCD) staff Funding Source: Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), Resource Indem- nity Trust, SCCD, and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services Issue The SCCD has been authorized to develop up to 5,809 acre-feet of ground water out of the Clear Lake aquifer as part of a Water Reservation. Once this volume of water has been developed an additional 9,800 acre-feet of water may be opened up for future development. A technical advisory committee was established to evaluate permit applications from potential irrigators. The committee requires a large amount of information on water quality, water availability, soil–water compatibility, potential impacts to wetlands, and project engineering to evaluate each permit application. If no adverse impacts are determined likely, the committee recommends that the SCCD approve the permit. A long-term goal is to develop the water resources without caus- ing signifi cant impacts to other resources in the region. Objective Promote economic development in an agricultural region by safely developing the Clear Lake aquifer for irrigation without harming the region’s wetlands and water bodies associated with the Medicine Lake Wildlife Refuge. Approach To evaluate impacts to other irrigators, lakes, and wetlands, the SCCD has developed a monitoring program to determine causes of water-level fl uctuations in the aquifer. Over 100 wells and surface-water sites are monitored on frequencies ranging from continuous to semi-annual. Climatic records and water-use records are compiled to compare the water-level fl uctuations. Progress during the 2004–2006 Biennium Continued monitoring water levels, periodically updated monitoring databases, produced hydrographs, produced plots of climatic trends, produced plots of water use, and used these data to evaluate several additional water permit applications. Several reports were written to evaluate impacts of the current status of irrigation. Drilled an additional 13 monitoring wells in 2005 and collected and analyzed water samples from these and several other wells. Conducted several aquifer tests to help evaluate applications for additional water; MBMG assisted the SCCD in increasing their allocation from 5,809 acre-feet to 10,000 acre-feet. Plans for the 2006–2008 Biennium Continue monitoring and assessing aquifer conditions with respect to additional irrigation. Evalu- ate models and collect additional data as required. Information Products Project completion reports and open-fi le reports. GIS maps are being developed showing hydrogeology, water resources, and status of ground-water development. Most of this information is available in the MBMG Ground-Water Information Center (http://mbmggwic.mtech.edu/) under the Sheridan County Reserved Water Project.

52 Biennial Report of Activities and Programs, 2004–2006

Project Title: Ground-Water Flow Modeling of Saline Seep Highwood Bench Location: Chouteau County Project Period: Fall 2006–2007 Project Leaders: John Metesh and Kate Miller Funding Source: Montana Department of Environmental Quality 319 Grant Issue Salinity is a common problem associated with impaired water bodies, yet most salinity, especially in intermittent drainages, is derived from bedrock and surfi cial deposits. Land use such as crop-fallow farming can exacerbate salt transport from the subsurface to surface drainages. Various mitigation techniques applied in ground-water recharge areas, such as planting alfalfa or continuous cropping, can be used to reduce the hydraulic head on the ground-water fl ow system, thereby reducing ground-water seepage to drainages and to subsequent water bodies. Objective To establish a ground-water fl ow model calibrated to ground-water and surface-water conditions observed at the Highwood Bench site. Of particular interest is the establishment of absolute values and distribution of evapotranspiration (ET). Once this is established, land use (distribution of ET) would be changed to address various possible conditions; the net change in ground-water levels and ground-water fl ow to surface water would be calculated. Several “what if” models, based on ET, could be constructed and the results compared. For example, a comparison could be made between planting alfalfa around a seep area and planting alfalfa in the recharge area; both ground-water levels and ground-water discharge to surface water could be calculated and compared. Approach Reducing salt loads to streams requires the implementation of land use that reduces or eliminates ground-water discharge to surface water. One of the most effective methods to reduce ground-water discharge is growing deep-rooted alfalfa in selected recharge areas. In essence, increasing ET by using high water-use plants or reducing summer fallow will reduce ground- water recharge, which in turn can reduce ground-water fl ow to surface water. If this method or another effective alternative cropping system were to be implemented on a watershed-wide basis for a suffi cient length of time, the major anthropogenic mechanism for salt transport from salinized ground water to surface water would be disrupted. In the absence of data for specifi c sites, a ground-water fl ow model could be used to calculate the change in ground-water discharge to the surface under a variety of land-use conditions including native grasses, crop rotation practices, alfalfa, or combinations thereof. Ground-water fl ow modeling can be used to calculate head (ground-water levels) and ground-water fl ux; more- over, this type of modeling can be used to calculate the difference in head and fl ux as result of changes in other components of the water balance such as ET, recharge, and drainage by streams. As with any modeling, a robust model requires suffi cient high-quality data for model calibration including long-term water-level and precipitation data, ET cropping information, topography, and various other hydrogeologic parameters at the fi eld level. These data are generally not available, but they do exist on the Highwood Bench as a result of an intensive 3-year study in the early 1980s that documented the changes in ground-water levels due to changes in cropping patterns. A fl ow model, properly calibrated using these data, should be transferable to many other watersheds in the glaciated portion of northern Montana. In addition, the Highwood Bench study included monitoring ground-water fl ux to agricultural drains; such data would pro-

53 Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology vide a good basis for calibrating a model that would calculate ground-water discharge to surface water. Progress during the 2004–2006 Biennium Historic data for the Highwood Bend were compiled and entered into the GWIC database. Plans for the 2006–2008 Biennium The bulk of the project will be completed in early 2007 with the construction and calibration of the ﬂ ow model. Information Products A ﬁ nal report is anticipated for late 2007, depending on funding.

54 Biennial Report of Activities and Programs, 2004–2006

Project Title: Impacts of Oilfi eld Wastes on Natural Resources Location: Sheridan County Project Period: September 2003–December 2006 Project Leader: Jon Reiten Funding Source: Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), Resource Indem- nity Tax Trust, Sheridan County Conservation District (SCCD), U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services (USFWS), and the Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology Issue The SCCD and USFWS are concerned about the impacts of oilfi eld wastes on natural resources including crop land, ground water, wetlands, and wildlife habitat. Migration of oilfi eld brine, 10 times as concentrated as seawater, has caused serious problems in Sheridan County. Landown- ers have reported an increase in contaminated soils and water resources near oilfi eld sites that have decreased the economic vitality of traditional farming practices. Problems include sterile soils, contaminated wells, sinkholes, and accelerated erosion. These problems have caused signifi cant economic impacts. Onsite disposal of salt-laden drilling wastes are a common practice in this part of the Williston Basin; there are about 900 drilling sites with onsite disposal pits in Sheridan County. A typical onsite disposal pit contains as much salt as a 260-ton salt block. Many of these disposal sites appeared stable during the dry times of the 1980s; however, wetter climatic conditions during the late 1990s have mobilized the salts, making the problems more serious and noticeable; landowners have recently reported signifi cant problems at 22 of these sites. Objective Promote economic development in an agricultural region by removing or stabilizing contamination. Document the degree of contamination of wetlands and water bodies associated with the Medicine Lake Wildlife Refuge. The SCCD proposes to clean up as many of these sites as possible to regain lost productivity and reduce further contamination. A similar concurrent USFWS project emphasizes documenting the magnitude and impacts of contamination on the Medicine Lake Wildlife Refuge and Waterfowl Protection Areas in the County. Approach Conduct site assessments at potentially impacted areas by Electromagnetic Conductivity (EM) surveys, sampling, test drilling, and ground-water monitoring. Results will be used to develop cleanup plans to remove salt water. Progress during the 2004–2006 Biennium Initiated site assessments at about 20 sites, and are currently processing data. Initial EM surveys were conducted at 15 of the most contaminated sites. A technical advisory committee was developed with representatives from the Montana Board of Oil and Gas, Natural Resources Conservation Service, USFWS, U.S. Geological Survey, SCCD, and MBMG. Committee representatives have met several times to discuss fi eld results and prioritize sites for future work and reclamation. Cleanup was completed at one site and several sites were treated with soil amend- ments to mitigate damage to soils. The MBMG cooperated with USFWS on a concurrent project. Plans for the 2006–2008 Biennium Continue monitoring and assessing oilfi eld sites throughout the county. Evaluate and collect additional data as required. Develop and prepare reports to assist the cleanup process. Information Products Project completion reports, site cleanup plans, and open-fi le reports. GIS maps are being developed showing extent of contamination, impact on water resources, and status of cleanup.

55 Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology

Project Title: Improving Soil Productivity and Water Qual- ity in South-Central Montana through Land-Use Changes Location: Stillwater County Project Period: July 1, 2001–December 31, 2005 Project Leader: Jon Reiten Project Staff: Shawn Reddish, Jay Hanson, Montana State University-Billings students, and Stillwater County Commission Funding Source: Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation, Resource Indemnity Trust, and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services Issue Since the 1950s, saline seep conditions have developed in the Lake Basin of south-central Mon- tana. Traditional small-grain cropping patterns result in land being left fallow every other year to enhance soil moisture. This practice can lead to saline seeps because excess water infi ltrates into recharge areas and mobilizes salts. These salts can build up in lakes, springs, seeps, sediment, and forage to concentrations that are toxic to livestock and wildlife. The salts contain antagonistic minerals that can block the uptake of required trace metals necessary for healthy livestock and wildlife. With the loss of land productivity and the advent of the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP), much of the salinized land is now being returned to rangeland and saline seeps are shrinking. Objective Find methods that will further decrease saline seep development. Approach • Develop potable water supplies to maintain the livestock industry. • Identify sources contributing to the saline seep problem including surface water, ground water, and sediment. • Document changes caused by CRP and the return to more rangeland, and develop Best Management Practices to further reduce saline seep growth. • Develop a comprehensive overview that compares current land uses to water quality in the Lake Basin. • Provide local producers with information to help them develop the best mix of land uses to enhance the economy and reduce saline seep. Progress during the 2004–2006 Biennium Completed project and fi nal report and developed recommendations for water development. Plans for the 2006–2008 Biennium Assist producers in evaluating potential water resources in the area. Information Products Project completion reports and open-fi le reports. GIS maps are being developed showing hydrogeology, water resources, and potential for ground-water development.

56 Biennial Report of Activities and Programs, 2004–2006

Project Title: Developing a Viable Water Supply for the Town of Broadview, South-Central Montana Location: Stillwater, Yellowstone, and Golden Valley Counties Project Period: September 1, 2006–December 31, 2007 Project Leader: Jon Reiten Project Staff: Jay Hanson Funding Source: Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation, Resource Indemnity Tax Trust Issue Broadview has a history of water problems and shortages that are now dramatically worsened by the current drought. Existing water supplies have poor quality water and limited yield potential. The present water supply is inadequate for fi re suppression, lawn watering, and tree watering, resulting in high home insurance rates and low property values. Broadview has signifi cant potential to expand its role as a bedroom community to Billings; however, this potential has been hindered by the inadequate water supply. Objective Identify and assess potential locations for developing a viable municipal water supply. Approach Identify sites for developing ground-water resources based on a review of existing geologic and hydrologic data and new data collected as part of this project. The Eagle and the Lance Forma- tions crop out within a 10-mile radius of Broadview and appear to have promise for developing alternative water supplies. These data will be compiled and used to defi ne and evaluate hydrogeologically favorable sites for developing viable ground-water supplies. Test wells will be constructed and used to assess two to four locations for long-term ground-water development. Ground-water fl ow, recharge areas, and discharge areas will be mapped to help the town of Broadview understand the long-term viability of these water supplies. Progress during the 2004–2006 Biennium Initiated project and developed preliminary maps. Plans for the 2006–2008 Biennium Follow through on the defi ned scope of work for the project to locate a viable water supply for the town of Broadview. Information Products Project completion reports and open-fi le reports. GIS maps are being developed showing hydrogeology, water resources, and potential for ground-water development.

57 Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology

Project Title: Long-Term Monitoring and Data Collection, Streamside Tailings Operable Unit (SSTOU) Location: Silver Bow County Project Period: 2004–2006 Project Leader: Peter Norbeck Project Staff: Ted Duaime, James Madison, and Nick Tucci Funding Source: Montana Department of Environmental Quality (MDEQ) Issue Provide the MDEQ with the analytical data and data evaluation needed to (1) identify and locate any continuing contaminant sources and (2) evaluate the effectiveness of stream channel restoration of the SSTOU of the Silver Bow Creek/Butte Area National Priorities List site. Objective Provide assistance to the State of Montana and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency in the collection of surface-water, streambed, vadose zone, and ground-water samples; compilation and analysis of data, and monthly reporting of analytical results. Approach Perform streambed and surface-water sampling during approximate high and low ﬂ ow conditions each year at sites on Silver Bow Creek. Install lysimeters at repositories and sample vadose zone water. Progress during the 2004–2006 Biennium Gound-water and surface samples, stream ﬂ ows, channel cross sections, vadose zone samples, and streambed sediment samples were collected, and the analytical data were entered into project databases and the MBMG Ground-Water Information Center. Information Products Norbeck, P.N., and Madison, J.P., 2006, Draft surface water, sediment, and ground-water assessment, Silver Bow Creek, Montana, submitted to the MDEQ Environmental Remediation Division.

58 Biennial Report of Activities and Programs, 2004–2006

Project Title: Expansion of the Monitoring Well Network for the Assessment of Agricultural Chemicals in Montana Ground Water Location: Statewide Project Period: July 2004–July 2006 Project Leader: James Rose Project Staff: Phyllis Hargrave and James Madison Funding Source: Department of Natural Resources and Conservation Issue The Montana Department of Agriculture (MDA) has been assigned the responsibility to: (1) protect ground water and the environment from impairment or degradation due to the use of pesticides; (2) allow for the proper and correct use of pesticides; (3) provide for the management of pesticides to prevent, minimize, and mitigate their presence in ground water; and (4) provide for education and training of pesticide applicators and the general public on ground-water protection, agricultural chemical use, and the use of alternative agricultural methods (Montana Code Annotated 80-15-103, 1995). The MDA currently has only 16 dedicated wells located throughout the State to monitor pesticides in ground water. Additional wells are needed to evaluate the presence of agricultural chemicals in ground water under many different crop and hydrogeologic settings because of the large cropped acreage, the range of crops produced, the variety of agricultural practices used, the multitude of agricultural chemicals applied, and the varied geologic and ground-water settings. Objective The 13 wells installed for this project will be used to evaluate additional agricultural sites where the ground water has been identifi ed as potentially vulnerable to non-point source (NPS) contamination. The ultimate goal of the ground-water monitoring program is to identify any hydrogeologic conditions or agricultural practices that may contribute to NPS contamination of ground water. The monitor well system is intended to detect concentrations of pesticides well below the action level concentrations that require immediate response and correction. The results of the data analysis will allow identifi cation of geologic settings, ground-water conditions, and agricultural practices that increase ground-water vulnerability and may contribute to ground-water contamination by pesticides. The monitoring results will also provide viable data to be used to develop Best Management Practices for specifi c agricultural and hydrogeologic conditions. Approach Installation of permanent ground-water monitoring wells for long-term pesticide monitoring as part of the MDA ground-water monitoring network program, specifi cally: 1. locating the monitor wells in the most advantageous areas to intercept any pesticides that may be in the ground water or to confi dently confi rm that pesticides are not present; 2. constructing monitoring wells following the March 1997 construction standards recommended by the Montana Board of Water Well Contractors; and 3. collecting water samples for laboratory analyses of inorganic constituents and pesticides. Progress during the 2004–2006 Biennium Thirteen monitoring wells were installed at 12 sites throughout Montana; the wells were sampled for inorganic constituents and pesticides. Information Products Madison, J.P., Hargrave, P.A., and Rose, J.C., 2005. Expansion of the monitoring-well network for the assessment of agricultural chemicals in Montana ground water: Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology Open-File Report 530, 102 p.

59 Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology

Project Title: Hydrogeology of the North Hills, Helena, Montana Location: Lewis and Clark County Project Period: July 2004–July 2006 Project Leader: James Madison Funding Source: Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) Issue Beginning in the late 1990s and continuing to the present, more than 30 wells in the North Hills area have gone dry or the water in the well has dropped to a level that cannot be pumped. Meanwhile, long-term well hydrographs in some areas of the North Hills have shown steadily decreasing water-level trends. The cause of the decreasing trends in water levels was unknown. Potential causes for the decrease included the increased demand placed on the aquifer from the increase in population or climatic factors that led to less recharge. Objective The goal of this project was to assess the change in water levels in wells. This goal was achieved through the following specifi c objectives: 1. establish a monitoring well network and monitor water levels in wells; 2. defi ne the potentiometric surface and the direction of ground-water fl ow; 3. determine the geologic framework and aquifer geometry, and how this relates to transmit- ting water to wells; 4. determine the sources of ground-water recharge/discharge and quantify these sources; 5. assess how water levels in wells respond to recharge and discharge sources; and 6. assess the distribution of nitrate in the ground-water system. Approach In 2002, the DNRC established a temporary Controlled Groundwater Area. Its purpose was to closely track new wells being installed in the area, install fl ow meters so that usage could be measured, collect water samples from these new wells for nitrate analysis, and monitor water levels in these wells. In essence, the DNRC, through the temporary Controlled Groundwater area, started a systematic data collection effort as the fi rst step to assess the declining water- level trends. In 2004, through a cooperative effort with the Lewis and Clark County Water Quality Protection District, the MBMG in collaboration with the DNRC started a data collection and interpretation effort to assess why water levels have dropped and wells have gone dry. Progress during the 2002–2004 Biennium Field investigations and data collection have been completed in this biennium. A fi nal report that describes the study fi nding has been published. Information Products Madison, J.P., 2006, Hydrogeology of the North Hills, Helena, Montana: Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology Open-File Report 544, 41 p., 3 sheets, 1:24,000.

60 Biennial Report of Activities and Programs, 2004–2006

Project Title: Impacts of Non-Point Source Pollution to Water Resources in the Paradise Valley Location: Paradise Valley, Park County Project Period: July 2000–February 2005 Project Leader: John Olson Project Staff: John Olson, Shawn Reddish, Rye Svingen, and Dave Kuzara Funding Source: Montana Department of Environmen- tal Quality, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Clean Water Section 319 Grant, and U.S. Bureau of Reclamation Issue Rapid expansion of residential development into the Paradise Valley has caused new and increasing potential impacts to the ground-water system. Land is being taken out of use as range land and irrigated crop land and subdivided into residential and recreational lots and non-producing land. The residential areas are not served by municipal sewers and rely on septic drainfi elds for waste discharges. Drainfi elds have been found to degrade underlying ground water through increased nitrate and dissolved solids concentrations. As the number and den- sity of these waste systems increases, contaminant loading to the aquifer may become critical in some areas. The effects of land-use changes on the watershed need to be documented to preserve water quality and ensure adequate quantities of the water resources. Baseline conditions need to be established so that future potential effects from future development can be accurately evaluated. Reports published as a result of this project will provide the information to help Park County planners and private and public land managers determine which development scenarios will prevent water-quality degradation in the Paradise Valley. Objective The primary goal of this project is to develop an understanding of the physical hydrogeology of both the surface-water and ground-water systems in Paradise Valley with enough detail to develop scientifi cally sound predictions of the impacts of future land-use changes and development. This project will focus on collecting and interpreting hydrogeologic data with respect to current and future non-point source pollution and the potential impacts to the entire watershed. Approach Data from inventories will be used as starting points for establishing additional sites for install- ing monitoring wells and surface-water monitoring sites. Additional sites will be inventoried as needed. A monitoring network will be developed out of these sites and water levels and fi eld water-quality parameters will be periodically measured. Water-quality sampling during this project will provide the background of temporal changes in water quality during this study. In addition, this sampling will provide background data for monitoring future impacts and hopefully lead to longer term sampling at selected sites. Routine fi eld screening will include measuring fi eld pH, specifi c conductance, temperature, dissolved oxygen, turbidity, and nitrates. Water-quality sampling will measure major cations, major anions, selected trace metals, stable isotopes, and nutrients. Sites will be established to gauge future conditions through monitoring programs. Progress during the 2004–2006 Biennium MBMG staff members have inventoried 101 wells and 52 stream monitoring sites in the project areas. Routine level monitoring was conducted at 20 wells and routine level and fl ow monitoring were conducted at 52 surface water stations. Samples for nutrients, common ions, trace metals, and tritium have been collected. Nine test wells were installed at key locations, and pump tests were conducted to evaluate aquifer properties. Pump tests were also conducted by the MBMG at four other sites using wells supplied by landowners.

61 Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology

Project Title: Phase I Non-Point Source Pollution Assess- ment of the Alluvial Valleys of Stillwater County Location: Stillwater County, Montana Project Period: June 2004–December 2006 Project Leader: John Olson Project Staff: John Olson, Rye Svingen, Justin Brown, and Shawn Stevens Funding Source: Montana Department of Environmental Quality and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Clean Water Section 319 Grant Issue Demand for and reliance on ground water along the Yellowstone River in Stillwater County have increased signifi cantly due to population growth in recent years. Between 1990 and 2000, the population in this area grew by 24 percent (U.S. Census), and nearly all of this growth occurred in rural or urban fringe areas beyond municipal water and sewer facilities. These residences depend on ground water as a source of potable water and rely on onsite drainfi elds for sanitary disposal. Drainfi elds have been shown to be a potential source of contamination (primarily nitrate) to shallow ground water. Subdivision developments of previously fl ood-irrigated agricultural areas have also been shown to adversely impact the quantity of recharge received by the aquifer. Consequently, the development in the area has the potential to impact both the quality and quantity of ground water. Ground water provides base fl ow to the Yellowstone River and its tributaries and supports wetlands in the area; as a result, impacts to ground water can also potentially transfer to surface-water bodies. Concerns from area residents over the potential water resource impacts from urban fringe development were the driving force behind this project. Objective Collect hydrologic and water-quality data along the Yellowstone River valley in Stillwater County. Approach Both ground water and surface water were evaluated to develop an understanding of the link- ages between the surface and subsurface water systems. Key elements were to evaluate sources and quantities of recharge and sources and quantities of nutrient loading. This data and hydrogeologic knowledge will be useful to assist not only area residents but also land-use and resource managers in making informed decisions on future growth. Progress during the 2004–2006 Biennium Data collection included ground-water well inventory, ground-water monitoring, and surface- water monitoring. MBMG staff inventoried 158 well sites within the project area. Property own- ers were contacted, their information was collected, and permission to access the well was obtained. Water-level measurements were taken, basic water parameters collected (temperature, pH, and specifi c conductance), and the well was located using a Global Positioning System and USGS 1:24,000 topographic maps. Additionally, ground-water levels were measured at 36 wells twice a month during the summer and every other month for the remainder of the year. Surface-water monitoring was conducted at 20 sites throughout the project area. Measurements included stream fl ows and fi eld water-quality (temperature, pH, and specifi c conductance). Water-quality samples were collected at 116 wells for analyses of nitrate and nitrite and 83 wells were sampled for common ions, nutrients, and trace metals. Additionally, 22 ground-water samples and 2 surface-water samples were collected and analyzed for tritium, oxygen-18, and deuterium.

62 Biennial Report of Activities and Programs, 2004–2006

Project Title: Critical Resource Assessment, Alluvial Aquifers of Northern Big Horn County Location: Yellowstone County, Montana Project Period: September 2005–December 2007 Project Leader: John Olson Funding Source: Montana Department of Natural Resources, Renewable Resource Grant Issue Residents of northern Big Horn County are dependent on the alluvial aquifer system in the Big Horn River Valley as the primary source of ground water. In the rural areas outside the city limits of Hardin, ground water is the only source of potable water. This aquifer system is shallow, thin, and vulnerable to water-quality and quantity impacts from drought and changes in land use or irrigation practices. There are currently very little data available on the alluvial aquifer system in the Big Horn River Valley. Cadastral data indicates at least 1,100 wells in the area. Data on ground-water availability, level fl uctuations, ground-water quality, nitrate concentrations, and interaction between ground water and surface water are either very limited or non-existent. These type of data are critical for making land-use and water resource decisions that protect the primary source of water for the area. Big Horn County has been experiencing drought conditions since the summer of 2000 (U.S. drought monitor) and is currently in an extreme drought (Governors Drought Advisory Commit- tee). Drought-related ground-water level declines have been observed in many places throughout the State. However, it is not known what effect the drought has had on the alluvial aquifers in Big Horn due to the absence of ground-water monitoring data. Bedrock units underlying and surrounding the valley mostly consist of thick sequences of shale that are typically either dry or low yielding with unusable water quality. Alluvial deposits are cut into and deposited over the bedrock as multiple terraces in a 3- to 4-mile wide broad river valley (mapped by Vuke and others, 2000). Determining hydrologic relationships between terraces is important in understanding the distribution, availability, and fl ow of ground water. Farming in the northern Big Horn River valley has been primarily supported by fl ood irrigation via open canals from the river. Infi ltration of the fl ood irrigation and ditch leakage are likely primary sources of ground-water recharge to the alluvial terraces. In recent years, especially due to the drought, there has been increasing emphasis placed on changing from fl ood irrigation to more effi cient practices such as sprinkler irrigation and lining or piping ditches, which use considerably less water than fl ood irrigation. Under sprinkler irrigation however, deep percolation (ground-water recharge) is decreased to almost nothing. Lining or piping ditches also decreases or eliminates recharge from these sources. Consequently, changes towards more water-effi cient irrigation practices can have signifi cant impacts on ground-water recharge, directly affecting ground-water availability, and also on ground-water quality. Because the alluvial aquifer system is relatively shallow, it is vulnerable to contamination from surface activities. Nitrate is a common ground-water contaminant in rural areas and can cause health impacts above a concentration of 10 mg/L. The most common sources of nitrate include fertilizer, animal wastes, and septic systems. All of these sources are present in the area; however, the distribution and concentrations of nitrate in the Big Horn River alluvial aquifer system is not known. Collecting data on the nitrate concentrations and on aquifer fl ow conditions is important in evaluating the present drinking water status for the residents of the area and is essential for evaluating future developments. Subdivision development in the area has not been as pronounced as in other parts of the State. However, there has been a noticeable migration into the rural areas. Much of the land in the

63 Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology project area consists of 40-acre farms. Many of these small-acreage farms are being bought for residential or hobby farm use. These new residences are dependent on ground water for potable water and rely on septic drainfi elds for sanitary disposal. Ground-water data will be required to assist in wise development strategies for the county. Objective The goal of this project is to collect and evaluate hydrogeologic data to characterize ground- water availability, fl ow, water-quality, recharge and surface-water interactions of the alluvial aquifer system in the Big Horn River Valley in northern Big Horn County. These data will be useful to area residents, planners, and resource managers to better protect and better utilize the ground- water resources of the area. Objectives to accomplish these goals include: • collect ground-water and surface-water data; • characterize the ground-water and surface-water systems; and • disseminate the project information to the County residents in useful and available formats. Approach Proposed tasks for the project include conducting an inventory of wells, springs, and streams in the area. Samples will be collected for water-quality constituents and for hydrologic tracers. Dedicated test wells will be installed to collect aquifer property data and detailed water-level fl uctuations under different recharge settings. Products of the project will include detailed maps of aquifer distribution and ground-water availability, ground-water fl ow, drilling depths, ground-water quality, and nitrate concentrations. A report will be prepared describing the activities and fi ndings of the project. All data will be available through the MBMG Ground-Water Information Center database. Public meetings will be held throughout the project to disseminate project information and to gain input and identify concerns. Progress during the 2004–2006 Biennium MBMG staff members have inventoried 45 wells and 30 surface-water station sites. Water-quality samples have been collected for nutrients, common ions, and trace metals. Routine monitoring for ground-water level and surface-water fl ow have been conducted at selected sites. Three test sites have been identifi ed for monitor well installation and aquifer testing.

64 Biennial Report of Activities and Programs, 2004–2006

Coal Resources, Hydrology, and Methane

Project Title: Coal Availability Program Location: Southeastern Montana, Powder River Basin Project Period: Ongoing since 1995; fi nal contract period April 2004–March 2005 Project Leader: Jay A. Gunderson (April 2006–present); Edith M. Wilde (January 2004–March 2005) Project Staff: Geographic Information System (GIS) staff and student assistants Funding Source: U.S. Geological Survey Energy Team, and the Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology Issue Original coal-reserve estimates for the nation were made over 25 years ago and in many cases were based on few data locations, with only tentative coalbed correlations. Coal mining restrictions, likely mining methods, and essential economic factors were not considered. Based on these estimates, the nation was believed to have thousands of years of coal reserves. Dif- ferences between total reserve estimates and the amount of coal that can actually be mined (recoverable reserves) were highlighted by coal availability studies begun in the Eastern Coal Province in 1986. Such studies have been extended to include the remaining coal provinces including Montana. Objective Determine the impact of mining restrictions, both technologic and land use, on reserve estimates for the Powder River Basin of Montana. Results will be used by State and Federal agencies to update estimates of the national and State reserves so that a more realistic picture of our energy future can be made. Approach Information contained in the National Coal Resources Data System database, along with additional outcrop information, is used to produce total coal reserve estimates. Various restrictions decrease the amount of coal that can actually be mined. These restrictions are placed into two categories: technologic and land use. Technologic restrictions consist of physical factors: coal too thin to surface mine, overburden too thick to remove, and beds too close together. Land-use restrictions established by State and Federal regulations include national park locations, alluvial valley fl oors, public use areas, inhabited buildings, towns, utility lines, cemeteries, etc. The available coal is determined by removing restricted areas from the total reserve area and computing the tonnage. Progress during the 2004–2006 Biennium The third (Otter and Reanus Cone 7.5-minute quadrangles) and fourth (Half Moon Hill and Taintor Desert 7.5-minute quadrangles) study areas have been completed and published. Work on the fi fth area (Forks Ranch and Lacey Gulch 7.5-minute quadrangles) was completed and remains unpublished; however, the USGS and MBMG have agreed to include that work in the publication for the sixth area (Birney 1:100,00 quadrangle). Plans for the 2006–2008 Biennium Publish results for the Birney 1:100,000 quadrangle. Complete and publish results for the Lame Deer 1:100,000 quadrangle.

65 Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology

Information Products Cooperative agreements require publication of the results of each study area. Wilde, E.M., and Sandau, K.L., 2004, Available coal resources of the Otter and Reanus Cone 7.5-minute quadrangles, Powder River County, Montana (CD only): Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology Report of Investigation 12, 83 p. Wilde, E.M., and Sandau, K., 2005, Available coal resources of the Half Moon Hill and Taintor Desert 7.5-minute quadrangles, Rosebud and Big Horn Counties, Montana (CD only): Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology Report of Investigation 14, 101 p.

66 Biennial Report of Activities and Programs, 2004–2006

Project Title: Coal/Coalbed-Methane Resource Informa- tion Location: Statewide Project Period: Ongoing Project Leader: Jay A. Gunderson (April 2006 to present) Project Staff: MBMG staff, as necessary Funding Source: Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology Objective Interest in coal resources is increasing, particularly in light of recent volatility in petroleum prices and the impacts of energy dependence on national security. The primary goal of this project is to provide timely and accurate information related to coal geology in response to public, industry, and government requests. Approach Provide technical information from existing MBMG coal databases (National Coal Resources Data System and Coal Quality Database), along with information from previous investigations and publications for all coal-related inquiries. Progress during the 2004–2006 Biennium Requests for information typically include questions regarding coal distribution, quantity, and quality. These requests are addressed on an ongoing basis. A topic of particular interest since mid-year 2006 has been underground coal gasifi cation (UCG). Work to identify suitable UCG sites is ongoing. Plans for the 2006–2008 Biennium Continue to act as a primary source for information on Montana’s coal resources. Research will be dictated, in part, by an understanding of current issues facing the general public and private industry. As an example, the recent interest in underground gasifi cation of coal (deeper than surface-mineable) has prompted an effort to better identify and quantify these subsurface coal resources. Information Products A preliminary document, Potential Sites for Underground Coal Gasifi cation in Montana, was released to the Governor’s offi ce in September 2006.

67 Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology

Project Title: National Coal Resources Data System Location: Statewide Project Period: Ongoing since 1982; January 2004– December 2006 Project Leader: Jay A. Gunderson (April 2006–present); Edith M. Wilde (January 2004–March 2005) Project Staff: Geographic Information System Specialist and student assistant Funding Source: U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) Energy Team, and the Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology Issue Coal is an important energy resource for the U.S., with more than half of current electricity produced by coal-fi red power plants. Understanding the quantity, distribution, and quality of our coal reserves is essential for effi cient development of this resource. The USGS established the National Coal Resources Data System (NCRDS) as part of their National Coal Resource Assessment Program. The MBMG has participated in this project for over 20 years. The MBMG has collected information on many aspects of coal in Montana; these data are prepared and entered into the NCRDS database. Objective The cooperative agreement provides funds for preparation of a comprehensive database con- taining information on Montana’s coal reserves. NCRDS personnel are charged with using information provided by all participating states to determine the quality and quantity of all U.S. coal reserves. Reserve assessments are then used to provide consistent data to policy makers in Washington and as a research tool. The primary goal of this project is to validate, correct, and expand upon coal data from Montana, so that NCRDS and the MBMG can provide these data to the public in a timely and effi cient manner. Approach NCRDS currently uses a UNIX-based operating system. They have modifi ed public-domain programs and developed additional programs to meet the specifi c needs of the NCRDS program. Montana’s coal data are prepared and entered into these applications. Progress during the 2004–2006 Biennium The Montana portion of the NCRDS database now contains information for nearly 20,000 data points from coal fi elds across the State. Most of the recent additions are outcrop data for 26 1:24,000 quadrangles from the economically important Powder River Basin. A validation process has been implemented to verify and correct information in the database. Progress was also made in adding coal chemistry data using an internal Microsoft Access database. Plans for the 2006–2008 Biennium The main goal for the next 2 years will be to continue to expand the information in the database and make the database available to the public. This requires three main areas of focus: 1. Develop a new strategy for database expansion and maintenance to streamline the process and eliminate duplication of effort. 2. Perform tests on the database and correct errors to ensure that the database has the high- est possible data integrity. 3. Provide public access to the database via a link on the MBMG website. Information Products Currently, an informal report is submitted to NCRDS at the end of each year. Non-proprietary data are currently available to the public from the USGS COALQUAL database at http://energy. er.usgs.gov/coalqual.htm.

68 Biennial Report of Activities and Programs, 2004–2006

Project Title: Coalbed-Methane-Produced Water Disposal by Injection in the Powder River Basin Location: Montana portion of the Powder River Basin, Big Horn, Rosebud, Powder River, Custer, and Treasure Coun- ties Project: April 2005 through July 2006 Project Leader: David A. Lopez Project Staff: Leo Heath (Petroleum Engineering), co- investigator; Geographic Information System staff; Publica- tions staff; and student assistants Funding Source: Contract with Colorado Energy Research Institute at Colorado School of Mines; funding source is National Energy Technology Laboratory of the U.S. Department of Energy Issue Currently, coalbed methane (CBM) is being developed in the Powder River Basin, for the most part in Wyoming and to a lesser extent in Montana. The main issue with this development is the disposal of water associated with CBM production. The focus of this project was to evaluate target zones for disposal of water by injection, while preserving benefi cial use. Objective In the Powder River Basin, the quality of water produced during CBM development is suffi cient for domestic and livestock use, but much of it has high sodium adsorption ratios. This makes it unsuitable for irrigation and gives it the potential to impair surface streams currently used for irrigation. Water management methods that preserve benefi cial uses without degrading surface water resources, including subsurface injection, are highly desirable. Water injected into the subsurface should be located in zones shallow enough to be economically recovered. The main goal of this project was to identify potential zones for injection in the Tongue River Member of the Fort Union Formation (above the Lebo Shale Member). Of particular interest are thick, porous, and permeable channel sandstone units. Approach Mapping and correlation of channel sandstones in the Tongue River Member have defi ned stacked northeast-trending paleo-river systems. Some of the channel sandstones are more than 100 feet thick and have porosities as high as 30%. These sandstone bodies should prove to be excellent zones for injection of CBM-produced water. Although these channel sandstones are present locally, they are not always present wherever an injection well may be desired. In addition, there is substantial uncertainty inherent in mapping channel sandstones, especially in areas of limited well control. Engineering injectivity evaluations conclude that injection of signifi cant volumes of water into channel sandstone is possible. Reasonable injection rates (200–4,500 barrels/day or 6–130 gpm) depending on sand thicknesses completed and well pressures that do not exceed an estimated fracture gradient of 0.70 psi/ft can be expected. Available porosity and permeability data indicate that stimulation treatment will not be required to achieve reasonable injection rates. Careful correlation of coalbeds and channel sandstones within the Fort Union Formation from all existing subsurface data, mainly from oil and gas exploration drilling, was utilized to develop as accurate a geologic description as possible. Satellite imagery and aerial photography were used to defi ne fracture systems in the area.

69 Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology

Progress during the 2004–2006 Biennium This project has been completed, and the report is in the ﬁ nal stages of editing. Information Products Lopez, D.A., 2005, Structure contour map: top of the Lebo Shale/Bearpaw Shale, Powder River Basin, southeastern Montana: Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology Report of Investigation 16, 3 sheets, 1:250,000.

70 Biennial Report of Activities and Programs, 2004–2006

Project Title: Development of a Geologic Exploration Model for the Permo-Pennsylvanian System in South- Central Montana Location: Montana portion of the Bighorn and Powder River Basins, Big Horn, Yellowstone, Carbon, Rosebud, Powder River, Custer, and Treasure Counties Project Period: October 2004 to April 2007 Project Leader: David A. Lopez Project Staff: Steve VanDelinder (Ballard Petroleum Hold- ings), co-investigator; Geographic Information System staff, Publications staff; and student assistants Funding Source: National Energy Technology Laboratory Issue The Permo-Pennsylvanian stratigraphic section in the Big Horn and Powder River Basins is the most prolifi c oil-producing system in the central Rocky Mountain Region. This petroleum system has produced in excess of 2 billion barrels of oil in the Big Horn Basin and in excess of 525 million barrels of oil in the Powder River Basin. Dramatic stratigraphic changes and thinning occur within this section between the Central Montana Trough and the Big Horn and Powder River Basins to the south. The erosional pinch-out of this system has been the focus of petroleum exploration in the past. The petroleum accumulations are in fact controlled by more complicated stratigraphic changes that occur south of the erosional pinch-out of this stratigraphic interval. This project will document the importance of these stratigraphic traps and provide a new model for petroleum exploration within the Permo-Pennsylvanian system. Objective The overall goals of this project are to (1) develop a new exploration model for the Permo-Penn- sylvanian petroleum system; (2) generate maps for industry showing an exploration fairway for oil accumulations in this system; (3) reduce exploration costs by allowing focused exploration in the fairway that will be identifi ed and by providing the background research from this project; and (4) ultimately add petroleum reserves from new discoveries. Approach The research approach is to apply modern sequence stratigraphic techniques to detailed outcrop studies in the area of predicted critical stratigraphic changes that controlled the distribution of reservoir facies in the Permo-Pennsylvanian petroleum system and to tie these data to the subsurface. Highly signifi cant and unique to this proposal is the fact that the critical stratigraphic changes occur within the area of the Crow Reservation, which has generally been inaccessible to industry for outcrop studies. For this research, the Crow Tribe has granted access to critical areas along the margins of the Pryor and Big Horn Mountains. The research will be conducted with the cooperation and involvement of the Tribe. Progress during the 2004–2006 Biennium The outcrop studies for this project have been completed and results are being prepared for publication. Regional subsurface cross sections have been completed and are available from the MBMG. Chemical analysis of oils from across the project region have been completed, and the data prove that oils in the Bighorn and Powder River Basins are all part of one petroleum system. Subsurface correlation and mapping are continuing.

71 Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology

Information Products The results and recommendations from this project will be published as they are completed. Progress and a description of the project are available on the project webpage at http://www. mbmg.mtech.edu/gmr-DOEmodel.htm. Lopez, D.A., and VanDerlinder, S.W., 2006, Reservoir development in the Tensleep Sandstone, Pryor and Bighorn Mountains, south-central Montana: Presentation at the 2006 Rocky Mountain Section of the American Association of Petroleum Geologists. Lopez, D.A., and VanDerlinder, S.W., 2006, Regional stratigraphic log cross sections of the Tensleep Formation, Powder River Basin, Big Horn Basin: Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology Open-File Report 547, 3 sheets.

72 Biennial Report of Activities and Programs, 2004–2006

Project Title: Evaluation of Coalbed-Methane Infi ltration Ponds for Produced-Water Management Location: Powder River Basin, southeastern Montana Project Period: July 2002–April 2007 Project Leader: John Wheaton Project Staff: Shawn Reddish, Teresa Donato, Licette Hammer, and student assistants Funding Source: U.S. Bureau of Land Management, the Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology, and U.S. Depart- ment of Energy Issue Within the Powder River Basin in southeastern Montana, an area of approximately 5,500 square miles, 7,500 to 26,000 coalbed-methane (CBM) wells are expected to be drilled and put into production during the next 20 years. The production CBM requires that signifi cant volumes of coalbed water be pumped to reduce the hydrostatic pressure in the coal aquifer, allowing the methane to desorb from the coal surfaces. During the early stages of production, water is discharged at fairly high rates, often exceeding 20 gallons per minute (gpm). During later stages of production discharge rates are expected to decrease, typically to less than 5 gpm. Productive life of individual wells is not yet known for the Powder River Basin, but estimates range from 5 to 20 years. The potential number of wells, the average water production, and the life of the wells demonstrate that carefully designed and implemented water-management plans are crucial to successfully developing CBM in southeastern Montana. Infi ltration basins (or holding ponds) are one of the primary methods for disposing of produced water. In Wyoming, approximately 3,000 infi ltration ponds are either currently in use or are in the permitting stage. Similar use of infi ltration ponds in Montana is expected as CBM development expands. In southeastern Montana where CBM is expected to be developed, coalbed water has high sodium adsorption ratios and salinity. Infi ltration ponds have several advantages. They are an inexpensive means of disposing of produced water, and allow more fl exibility in pumping rates for the companies. Also, the produced water, which comes from primary aquifers in the area, helps recharge the shallow ground-water system. The basins also have several potential disadvantages. The infi ltrated water does not move vertically into the original deep aquifers, but rather tends to infi ltrate to shallow zones or move laterally. As the sodium-bicarbonate water moves through the shallow weathered bedrock, a series of chemical reactions may increase the salt load in the water and detrimentally impact shallow aquifers or streams. Predicting changes in water quality is an integral part of permitting these ponds. Saturated paste-extract data and computer modeling may help defi ne the water-quality changes and provide important tools for companies and permitting agencies. Objective To develop methods to assess proposed CBM infi ltration pond sites and to test and calibrate those methods with fi eld research. Data are being collected at fi eld sites, and water-fl ow and water-quality models will be run and calibrated using the fi eld data. It is expected that specifi c data needed for modeling, and the correct models, will be identifi ed and documented. This will determine what criteria will be needed for the appropriate siting of infi ltration ponds. These criteria will allow the expected long-term infi ltration rates to be calculated and ensure that the infi l- trated water will recharge bedrock aquifers rather than fl owing unexpectedly to surface waters (either as basefl ow or through the creation of new and potentially saline springs). These criteria will be used by industry and regulators in selection of appropriate sites for infi ltration ponds.

73 Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology

Major factors controlling site adequacy are the types of soils at the site, the site-specifi c stratigraphy of the underlying bedrock, and the distance to outcrop. Approach Study sites include both active CBM infi ltration ponds and sites where water of similar quality has fl owed freely across the land surface. Four infi ltration ponds that are in use by CBM companies and two small ponds that were constructed solely for research are used as study sites. Monitoring wells have been installed at these sites near the ponds, and the rate of water production and quality of water entering the ponds have been documented. In addition to the pond sites, several fl owing stock wells in southeastern Montana where sodium- bicarbonate rich water has been discharged across the land surface for a number of years are being studied. Water fl owing from these wells is similar to CBM-produced water, and the interaction with soil and subsurface material is projected to duplicate that which occurs at CBM infi ltration ponds. These provide readily available sites to understand long-term effects of discharging and infi ltrating CBM-produced water. At each site a shallow test hole has been drilled upgradient and downgradient of the discharge point and solid phase material has been collected for laboratory analyses. In the discharge area, test holes were cased and utilized as monitoring wells. At all sites changes in shallow ground-water levels and water quality were measured. Saturated paste-extract analyses run on solid phase material has provided data on chemical reactions in the infi ltrating zone. A geochemistry model will be used to provide general understandings of chemical reactions along fl ow paths. Minerals that potentially control chemical reactions were identifi ed by x-ray diffraction. Progress during the 2004–2006 Biennium Monitoring is ongoing at the infi ltration ponds. Monitoring is completed at the 15 fl owing stock wells. Preliminary models have been created, and preliminary results have been presented at several scientifi c conferences. One signifi cant fi nding is that the rate of infi ltration decreases with time. This appears to be the results of clay dispersion that plugs pores beneath the ponds. Since the ponds are intended to be used for a few years, rather than as permanent sites, this may be advantageous as the salts mobilized by the infi ltrating water may become sequestered by reduced recharge. Plans for the 2006–2008 Biennium Monitoring will continue at the pond sites, providing better defi nition of the water budgets and chemical mass balances. Chemical modeling will be refi ned and a formal paper will be published on the results. Technical papers will be presented at workshops and scientifi c conferences. Information Products This long-term project has produced a formal publication through the Wyoming State Geological Survey and several presentations at scientifi c conferences.

74 Biennial Report of Activities and Programs, 2004–2006

Project Title: Investigation of Coalbed-Methane Microbes in the Powder River Basin, Montana Location: Powder River Basin, southeastern Montana Project Period: Ongoing since March 2004 Project Leader: John Wheaton Project Staff: Pat Ball, University of Montana, and Seth Snyder, Argonne National Laboratory Issue Coalbed-methane (CBM) is becoming a signifi cant new source of natural gas for the nation. The origin of CBM in the Powder River Basin is the result of microbial processes (biogenic methanogenesis). It may be possible to generate methane in coal seams by manipulating microbiological processes. This in situ gasifi cation of coalbeds would enhance CBM production from existing fi elds and could create a source of natural gas reserves in coal fi elds that do not currently hold CBM. To maximize CBM production, the structure, diver- sity, and presumptive function of the total microbial community within coalbeds in the Powder River Basin need to be determined and understood. A second benefi t to this research is that it may lead to new CO2 sequestration strategies. Objective The goal is to generate data that will support more advanced studies of in situ gasifi cation of coal as it relates to methanogenesis, CO2 sequestration, and the development of technologies appropriate for sustainable methane development. The value of these data is as a means of moving toward harvesting CBM rather than simply mining this resource. The MBMG has been involved in two studies of CBM methanogenesis. The fi rst study has been completed and a report published in conjunction with Dr. Pat Ball, University of Montana, on preliminary fi ndings on the microbial community in Powder River Basin coalbeds. The second is a pilot study that began in August 2006 and is a joint project with Argonne National Laboratory. The objective of this study is to document coal digestion by microbes in a laboratory setting. If successful, funding for a major fi eld study will be pursued. The results of microbial studies are expected to aid us in the development of biostimulation or bioaugmentation protocols that may lead to increased methane production and CO2 sequestration based on enhanced microbial activity. Approach Coal samples and CBM production water samples were collected for microbial ecology analysis. Several analytical methods were applied to these samples by Pat Ball at the University of Mon- tana. Coal samples were collected during drilling in the Powder River Basin and shipped to Seth Snyder at Argonne National Laboratory. These samples are currently being used in laboratory research on enhanced biogenic methane production. Progress during the 2004–2006 Biennium Preliminary analyses of CBM-produced water samples have shown microbes that have not previously been described in the scientifi c literature. Initial results were presented at a scientifi c conference and published in Montana Water Center Technical Report 226. The results of this initial investigation proved to be an excellent starting point for continuing efforts toward unraveling the complexity of the microbial community responsible for biogenic methane production. Coal collected for enhanced methane generation is currently in laboratory columns at Argonne National Laboratory. Research on these columns has begun and results are forthcoming. Plans for the 2006–2008 Biennium The preliminary enhanced methane generation research at Argonne National Laboratory will be completed and results will be released. Additional sources of funding will be pursued to further the work on both microbial ecology and methane generation.

75 Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology

Project Title: Monitoring Ground-Water Conditions in Coalbed-Methane Development Areas Location: Billings and southeastern Montana Project Period: Ongoing since 1999 Project Leader: John Wheaton Project Staff: Teresa Donato, Shawn Reddish, Licette Hammer, and student assistants Funding Source: U.S. Bureau of Land Management (BLM), the Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology, Mon- tana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (Resource Develop Grants Program), Conservation Districts, and U.S. Department of Interior Forest Service Issue Coalbed-methane (CBM) development in Montana challenges industry and regulators to provide proper safeguards for water resources. Methane production requires pumping and discharging large volumes of ground water. This method of production will impact water availability over large areas and will impact water quality in streams that are used for irrigation. The degree of impact will be determined largely by the number of wells being pumped and the rates of discharge. Production is accomplished by pumping ground water from the coalbeds to decrease hydrostatic pressure in the aquifer. With suffi ciently decreased pressures, methane gas desorbs from the coal and is discharged with the well water. Thus far production is established and expanding in New Mexico, Colorado, Montana, and Wyoming. Development in Montana began in 1999 with 127 wells near Decker producing 8 million cubic feet of methane gas per day and 3 million gallons of water per day. As of December 2005, 516 wells were producing in Montana. These wells produced 10.5 million mcf (units of 1,000 cubic feet) of gas during 2005 with a cumulative 1.83 million gallons per minute of produced water. The gas is a high BTU, clean-burning fuel. The water is useable for human and livestock consumption, but unfi t for irrigation. Objective Many additional wells are expected, possibly exceeding the several thousand already producing in Wyoming. The objectives are to predict and mitigate the areas where ground-water supplies may be affected, and to manage the discharge of high-sodium water to safeguard surface-water resources. Approach The MBMG is conducting research on several aspects of CBM development. The MBMG has assisted the BLM in the preparation of a programmatic Environmental Impact Statement of CBM development, and continues to assist with specifi c ground-water evaluations. MBMG staff members serve on a Technical Advisory Committee on ground-water problems related to development, and on several multi-agency (State and Federal) committees to coordinate agency responsibilities. Through site-specifi c studies, a large volume of hydrogeologic data exist for the Powder River Basin in Montana. These data can be used for specifi c calculations of impacts and recovery of hydrogeologic systems based on and limited under assumptions such as the CBM development scenarios. A series of computer modeling efforts has incorporated much of the existing data. Modeling, using generic single layer or site-specifi c 3-D approaches with the available data, is one method to provide an estimation of impact potential. To be valid, all computer models must be based upon and checked against actual fi eld monitoring data. The basis of all assessments of possible impacts is monitoring data.

76 Biennial Report of Activities and Programs, 2004–2006

Projections of discharge water quantity and quality are being made, based on data collected at monitoring wells. The MBMG’s long-established coal-hydrology monitoring program has been maintained and expanded to provide additional data. Additional monitoring wells have been drilled in key locations in the area of intensive CBM development. Older monitoring wells are being located and reactivated. Spring inventories and fi eld analyses are being conducted. These wells and springs will provide additional data and as methane production in Montana increases, the MBMG, in cooperation with other agencies, will document and predict impacts, and will offer mitigation measures where possible. All investigators on this project are providing technical assistance and informational presentations to BLM, companies, landowners, scientifi c conferences, and others interested in the progress of CBM development in Montana. A geographic information system (GIS) project of the Powder River Basin area was completed and includes all known hydrologic features, coal outcrops, and topography. Another GIS project showing the Anderson and Knobloch coal horizons and potential for methane development was developed. Both of these GIS projects are being used to interpret and illustrate the impacts of CBM development. An introduction to CBM and the associated hydrologic issues has been published and is available to the public. Each year an annual update of the regional ground-water monitoring program is published as an MBMG open- fi le report. Progress during the 2004–2006 Biennium Programs have been added and additional funding procured for this project. New monitoring wells have been installed along the Montana–Wyoming state line and added to the regular monitoring program. Plans for the 2006–2008 Biennium Continue monitoring program. Add additional monitoring wells if needed. Present technical papers at workshops and scientifi c conferences. Collect water-quality samples twice per year and perform aquifer tests. Apply for long-term funding to maintain the program. Information Products Wheaton, J., Donato, T.A., Reddish, S., and Hammer, L., 2005, 2004 Annual coalbed methane regional ground-water monitoring report: Montana portion of the Powder River Basin: Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology Open-File Report 528, 66 p., 3 sheets. Wheaton, J.R., and Donato, T.A., 2004, Coalbed-methane basics: Powder River Basin, Montana: Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology Information Pamphlet 5, 25 p.

77 Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology

Project Title: Coal Lands Hydrogeology Location: Southeastern Montana Project Period: Ongoing since the early 1970s Project Leader: John Wheaton Project Staff: Licette Hammer, John Olson, and Teresa Donato Funding Source: U.S. Bureau of Land Management and the Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology

Issue Energy is not the only resource provided by coalbeds in southeastern Montana. In this semi-arid climate, the agricultural economy depends very heavily on ground water for stock and domestic supplies. In many places ground water is obtained from coalbeds that will be removed by mining. Mine-spoil aquifers may eventually replace the removed coal aquifers as local water resources. The timing of recovery of these systems, as well as the quantity and quality of water available, needs to be thoroughly understood. To ensure rational and effi cient coal resource decision-making by mining companies and regulators, the impacts of mining on ground water must be well documented and thoroughly understood. Because mining and associated impacts have very long durations, the study of the associated hydrology continues to be a long-term commitment. Objective Document hydrologic impacts associated with coal strip mining. Develop models that can be used to predict those impacts using hydrogeologic baseline data and mine plans and use the information to plan, mine, and reclaim for minimum hydrologic impact. Approach 1. Measure water levels and collect water-quality samples at a network of wells in and out of mine areas. Wells refl ect mining-impacted aquifers as well as aquifers that are not impacted but can provide background data and natural seasonal variations. 2. Maintain the data in databases that are easily accessible to the public on the Internet. 3. Review the data, analyzing temporal and spatial trends. 4. Interpret the information and disseminate it to regulators, industry and the public. Progress during the 2004–2006 Biennium Federal funding for this important program was not available during much of this biennium. Funding was restored in the fall of 2006 for work near Colstrip. Data collection was minimal, limited to approximately quarterly measurements at a subset of wells. The program has been restored for those sites near the Big Sky Mine at Colstrip. Data and interpretations are used in public meetings and scientifi c conferences. The longevity and continuity of data collection make this an extremely valuable database. Plans for the 2006–2008 Biennium Continue monitoring program, with emphasis on the Colstrip area. Collect water-quality samples and perform aquifer tests. Present technical papers at workshops and scientifi c conferences. An updated technical publication will be prepared and released. The results will be used by companies, regulators, and landowners during evaluations of future mining permits as well as for underground coal gasifi cation projects that may be proposed for Montana. Information Products This long-term project has produced many formal publications.

78 Biennial Report of Activities and Programs, 2004–2006

Project Title: Hydrologic Assessment for the Ashland Ranger District, Custer National Forest Location: Powder River Structural Basin, Southeastern Montana Project Period: May 2002 through December 2006 Project Leader: John Wheaton Project Staff: Licette Hammer and Teresa Donato Funding Source: U.S. Department of Interior Forest Ser- vice and the Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology Issue The U.S. Forest Service wishes to expand the understanding of the scale and location of critical water resources, particularly springs, in the region, and the hydraulic relationships among springs, wells, and coal aquifers where coalbed-methane (CBM) development is being proposed. Wells have typically been documented, but records of springs are incomplete. Springs are susceptible to the potential impacts of CBM development and therefore need to be documented prior to development. Objective 1. Record the location, discharge, and specifi c conductivity of springs and fl owing artesian wells considered to be critical water resources for livestock and wildlife. 2. Update records of existing research wells on Forest Service land. 3. Monitor selected springs, wells, and live stream reaches to better understand the relationship between the water resources, meteorological conditions, and stratigraphic settings. 4. Ensure all data are easily accessible to the public. Approach Forest Service personnel guided MBMG staff to water resources considered to be of critical importance to their operations. Site locations were recorded using a handheld GPS receiver. During inventories, discharge of springs and fl owing artesian wells, static water levels and total depths of research wells, and specifi c conductivity and temperature were measured. Regular monitoring sites were chosen and parameters measured on a regular basis. One stream site has been fi tted with a v-notch weir for continuous recording of fl ow rates. All data were entered in the Montana Ground-Water Information Center (GWIC) database. Basic data reports and study area maps have been published, and a detailed technical report is being prepared. Progress during the 2004–2006 Biennium A total of 507 water resources were inventoried. Data describing the water resources have been entered in GWIC and two publications have been released. Plans for the 2006–2008 Biennium A detailed technical report is being prepared that will provide an interpretation of the water resources and the relationship between the water resources and potential energy development activities. Funding to continue monitoring beyond December 2006 is being sought. Information Products Donato, T.A., and Wheaton, J.R., 2004, Spring inventory and other water data, Custer National Forest-Ashland Ranger District, Montana (photos available on CD only): Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology Open-File Report 493A, 84 p., 1 sheet. Donato, T.A., and Wheaton, J. R., 2004, Spring and well inventory for the Powder River and Tongue River watersheds, Southeastern Montana: Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology Open-File Report 493B, 53 p., 1 sheet.

79 Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology

Grants and Contracts

Marvin Miller Assistant Director The Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology continues to utilize its grants and contracts program to better serve the needs of Montana citizens and to broaden its overall effectiveness. During the past 2 years, MBMG professionals in Butte and Billings have been involved in 90 outside-funded projects cooperating with 97 different local, State, Federal, and private organizations. These projects, evaluating virtually all aspects of Montana’s vast water and mineral resources, are distributed throughout Montana. Brief descriptions of many of these investigations are included in other sections of this report.

For many years, the Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology has worked closely with numerous organizations. With increasing concerns related to conservation and careful utilization of our natural resources and escalating regulatory pressures combined with reduced budgets, it is even more critical to work together. Over the biennium the MBMG collaborated with the following organizations: • Communities (15): Belt; Billings; Broadview; Bynum; Dupuyer; Fairfi eld; Fairview; Great Falls; Hardin; Park City; Sidney; Sunburst; Valier; Worden; and Zurich • Conservation districts (20): Bighorn; Big Sandy; Cascade; Daniels; Fergus; Glacier; Hill; Judith Basin; Liberty; Lower Musselshell; Park; Pondera; Powder River; Richland; Rosebud; Sheridan; Stillwater; Teton; Toole; and Yellowstone • Counties (12): Beaverhead; Butte-Silver Bow; Cascade; Flathead; Gallatin; Lewis & Clark; Missoula; Pondera; Richland; Stillwater; Treasure; and Yellowstone • State agencies and organizations (13): Departments of: Agriculture; Environmental Quality; Fish, Wildlife and Parks; Governor’s Offi ce of Economic Opportunity; Justice; Natu- ral Resources and Conservation; Public Health and Human Services; State Library; Bit- terroot Water Forum; Disaster and Emergency Services; Montana Arts Council; Montana Salinity Control Association; and Montana Water Resources Center • Out-of-state organizations (7): Colorado Energy Research Institute; Idaho Geological Survey; Idaho National Engineering Laboratory; Incorporated Research Institutions for Seismology; Western Research Institute; Western Research Partnership; and Association of American State Geologists • Universities and Colleges (6): Colorado School of Mines; Montana Tech, Butte; The Uni- versity of Montana, Missoula; Montana State University, Billings; Montana State University, Bozeman; and the University of Wyoming • Indian reservations (3): Crow Tribe; Northern Cheyenne Tribe; and Confederated Salish- Kootenai Tribes • Federal agencies (13): Forest Service; Natural Resources Conservation Service; Depart- ment of Energy; Bureau of Land Management; Bureau of Reclamation; Fish & Wildlife Ser- vice; U.S. Geological Survey; National Park Service; National Science Foundation; Offi ce of Surface Mining; Environmental Protection Agency; Federal Emergency Management Agency; International Joint Commission, United States/Canada

80 Biennial Report of Activities and Programs, 2004–2006

• Private (8): Ballard Petroleum Company; Big Hole River Foundation; Husky Energy Com- pany; Midwest Assistance Program; International Malting Company; Montana Rural Water Systems Association; Trout Unlimited (George Grant Chapter); Western Heritage Center In addition, MBMG professionals actively participate on approximately 50 technical advisory committees, councils, boards, or study groups for the beneﬁ t of public organizations or agencies. Through these contacts, MBMG personnel contribute their expertise and also continue to learn through their participation in and communication with these groups.

81 Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology

Administrative Division

Lynn Job Division Chief The Administrative Division includes administrative and accounting support personnel. The division is responsible for the overall administrative and ﬁ scal management of the Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology, and directs and administers all of the outside monies that are awarded to the MBMG for research, contracts, and creative activities. Part-Time Student Assistants The Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology augments its staff through the employment of col- lege students as part-time assistants. These students not only contribute to the research effort but also gain experience in organized research as part of their academic training. During all or part of the 2004–2006 Biennium, 29 students from various departments were employed.

July 1, 2004– July 1, 2005– June 30, 2005 June 30, 2006 Revenue General Fund Appropriation $1,601,231.00 $ 1,738,919.00 Sales & Service 36,346.16 37,043.55 Ground-Water Assessment 666,000.00 730,697.00 Total Revenue $2,303,577.16 $ 2,506,659.55

Expenditures Personnel Services 1,861,985.44 1,914,582.68 Operating Expense Contracted Services 74,705.36 69,876.78 Supplies & Materials 78,368.65 78,457.27 Communications 35,009.62 27,785.13 Travel 113,125.09 124,712.86 Rent 30,412.25 1,873.28 Utilities 127.13 30.55 Repair and Maintenance 9,991.95 26,542.17 Other Operating 9,319.25 17,572.22 Total Operations 351,059.30 346,850.26 Equipment 30,068.50 15,221.00 Transfer 70,000.00 240,814.33 Total Expenses $2,313,113.24 $2,517,468.27

82 Biennial Report of Activities and Programs, 2004–2006

Information Services Division

Susan Barth Publications Editor The Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology (MBMG) provides extensive advisory, technical, and informational services on Montana geological, mineral, energy, and water resources to the public and private sectors, and is legislatively mandated to communicate and disseminate the fi ndings of research conducted within the organization. It is the primary responsibility of Informa- tion Services (IS) to facilitate adherence to that mandate. Goals The central goals of the IS division are to: • assist MBMG researchers in the preparation, publication, and dissemination of their work; • ensure the high quality, consistency, and readability of MBMG publications; • maintain and continually develop and improve upon the MBMG website; • be a resource of information and technical assistance for MBMG staff and the public; and • promote public awareness of MBMG projects and publications through displays, public outreach, advertising, cooperative agreements with other organizations, and conferences. Division Organization The IS division comprises four sections: Editorial, Cartography, Information Systems, and Publi- cation Sales. Editorial The editorial staff is responsible for the scientifi c editing, layout, and pre-press production of a wide variety of publications, as well as management of vendors and printers. Cartography The cartographic area handles the research, compilation, and graphic design of maps, technical illustrations, scientifi c publications, exhibits, presentations, and brochures. Information Systems The information systems section holds our link to the outside world via the Internet. Our webmaster is required to develop, deploy, and manage the daily operation of the MBMG’s website. Publication Sales Our Publication Sales Offi ce distributes MBMG publications and USGS topographic and thematic maps to a diverse array of customers, including: artists (jewelers, potters, etc.); builders; geologists; local, county, State and Federal agencies; miners; researchers; recre- ationists (amateur gold prospectors, campers, fi shermen, gardeners, hikers, hunters, rock hounds, etc.); real estate agencies; students; schools; and other universities and colleges. These materials are used for administration, exploration, earthquake tracking, genealogical studies, search and rescue, spelunking, teaching, thesis and dissertation studies, tourism, water-well potential and location, and zoning.

83 Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology

MBMG publications are issued in the following categories: Bulletins Signifi cant data and interpretations with lasting scientifi c interest Geologic Map Series Mapped areas and presentations on various geologic themes; may include some descriptive text or expanded explanations; charts, tables, analytical data, etc. Ground-Water Assessment Atlas Descriptive overviews and maps interpreting the ground-water resources of selected areas Ground-Water Open-File Reports Manuscripts and maps dealing with various ground-water issues in Montana that have been produced as ancillary documents by the Ground-Water Assessment Program Hydrogeologic Map Series Mapped areas and presentations on various hydrogeologic themes; may include some descriptive text or expanded explanations; charts, tables, analytical data, etc. Information Pamphlet Series Generalized discussions of variable subject matter on earth science and general interest topics of Montana geology Memoirs Comprehensive scientifi c reports of broad topical or geographic scope that have wide and long-term importance Miscellaneous Contributions Administrative reports, primary data tabulations, directories, bibliographies, indexes, and catalogues Montana Atlas Series Depicts geology, ground-water resources, mineral resources, and other subjects in a port- folio format Open-File Reports The open-fi le reports and maps are a means by which information is made available to the public on investigations that are preliminary in content, awaiting publication, or for various reasons are unpublished. Reports of Investigation Reports about narrowly focused areas of study Special Publications Compilation of various works, guidebooks, proceedings volumes, bibliographies, multiple authorship; may include subjects of interest to the non-scientist Progress during the 2004–2006 Biennium In the past biennium we have hired a new sales offi ce manager and a new editorial assistant, and are already seeing excellent benefi ts in improved capabilities and performance. During this period we have published formal reports on coalbed methane, seismicity in Montana, water

84 Biennial Report of Activities and Programs, 2004–2006 quality, and coal resources, along with more than 40 open-ﬁ le reports. We also released new versions of our ever-popular annual calendars and screensaver/catalogue CDs. We designed and printed new business cards and stationery for all MBMG staff. We designed and produced a 12-page brochure about the new Natural Resources building, and have been working on fundraising and planning for that project. We also have organized and staffed several convention and event booths. Plans for the 2006–2008 Biennium We are working on a completely new design for the MBMG website, which will be up in early 2007. The new geologic map of Montana at the 1:500,000 scale will be released in 2007 as well. We are currently working on formal publications on sapphires in Montana and injection of coalbed-methane-produced water. New Publications

Ground-Water Atlas Series GWAA 3B-03 Characterization of alluvial aquifers in Treasure and Yellowstone counties, Middle Yellowstone River Area, Montana (open-fi le version), Olson, J.L., 2005 GWAA 3B-05 Characterization of the Judith River aquifer, middle Yellowstone River area, Yellowstone and Treasure counties, Montana (open-fi le version), Olson, J.L., and Svingen, R.R., 2006 GWAA 4B-02 Hydrologic framework of the Lolo-Bitterroot area, Mineral, Missoula, and Ravalli counties, Montana (open-fi le version), Smith, L.N., 2006 GWAA 4B-03 Thickness of quaternary unconsolidated deposits in the Lolo-Bitterroot area, Mineral, Missoula, and Ravalli counties, Montana (open-fi le version), Smith, L.N., 2006. GWAA 4B-05 Altitude of the bedrock surface in the Bitterroot Valley, Missoula and Ravalli Counties, Montana (open-fi le version), Smith, L.N., 2006 GWAA 4B-06 Potentiometric surface of the basin-fi ll and bedrock aquifers, Mineral and Missoula counties, Montana (open-fi le version), LaFave, J.I., 2006 GWAA 4B-07 Ground-water quality in basin-fi ll and bedrock aquifers, Mineral and Missoula counties, western Montana (open-fi le version), LaFave, J.I., 2006 GWAA 4B-08 Potentiometric surface of the shallow basin-fi ll, deep basin-fi ll, and bedrock aquifers, Bitterroot Valley, Missoula and Ravalli counties, western Montana (open-fi le version), LaFave, J.I., 2006 QWAA 4B-09 Ground-water quality in shallow basin-fi ll, deep basin-fi ll and bedrock aquifers, Bitterroot Valley, Missoula and Ravalli counties, southwest Montana (open-fi le version), LaFave, J.I., 2006 GWAA 4B-10 Patterns of water-level fl uctuations, Lolo-Bitterroot area, Mineral, Missoula, and Ravalli Counties, Montana (open-fi le version), Smith, L.N., 2006 GWAA 5B-01 Data for water wells visited during the Upper Clark Fork River area Ground- Water Characterization study: Deer Lodge, Granite, and Silver Bow Counties (open-fi le version), Carstarphen, C.A., Mason, D.C., Smith, L.N., LaFave, J.I., Richter, M.G., 2004 Ground-Water Open Files GWOF 18 Water levels and nitrate in Warne Heights, upper Summit Valley, Silver Bow County, Montana, Carstarphen, C.A., LaFave, J.I., Patton, T.W., 2004 Information Pamphlets IP 5 Coalbed-methane basics, Wheaton, J.R., Donato, T.A., 2004

85 Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology

Open Files MBMG 505 Geologic map of Cenozoic deposits in the Upper Jefferson Valley, southwestern Montana, Vuke, S.M., Coppinger, W.W., Cox, B.E., 2004 MBMG 506 Geologic map of the Upper Clark Fork Valley, southwestern Montana, Berg, R.B., Hargrave, Phyllis, 2004 MBMG 507 Summary of investigation, Upper Silver Bow Creek, Butte, Montana, Metesh, J.J., Madison, J.P., 2004 MBMG 508 Ground-water monitoring program in prospective coalbed-methane areas of southeastern Montana: Year One, Wheaton, J.R., Donato, T.A., 2004 MBMG 509 Geologic map of the Deer Lodge and Conley’s Lake 7.5’ quadrangles, Berg, R.B., 2004 MBMG 510 Spring inventory, Yellowstone controlled ground-water area, Metesh, J.J., 2004 MBMG 511 Preliminary geologic map of the Ringling 30’ x 60’ quadrangle, central Montana, McDonald, Catherine, 2005 MBMG 512 Hydrogeology of the Burton Bench aquifer, north-central Montana, Madison, J.P., 2004 MBMG 513 Geologic map of the Melstone 30’ x 60’ quadrangle, eastern Montana, Vuke, S.M., Wilde, E.M., 2004 MBMG 514 Geologic map of the Jordan 30’ x 60’ quadrangle, eastern Montana, Wilde, E.M., Vuke, S.M., 2004 MBMG 515 Geologic map of the Sand Springs 30’ x 60’ quadrangle, eastern Montana, Wilde, E.M., Vuke. S.M., 2004 MBMG 516 Geologic map of Tarkio and Lozeau 7.5’ quadrangles, western Montana, Lonn, J.D., Smith, L.N., 2005 MBMG 517 Bedrock and surﬁ cial geologic map of the Monument Hill 7.5’ quadrangle, western Montana, Newton, M.L., Regalla, C.A., Anastasio, D. J., Pazzaglia, F.J., 2005 MBMG 518 2003 update of water-level monitoring and water-quality sampling, Butte underground mines and Berkeley Pit, Butte, Montana, 1982-2003, Duaime, T.E., Metesh, J.J., 2005 MBMG 519 Minerals of Montana-Part I, French L.B., 2005 MBMG 520 Geologic map of the Dell 7.5’ quadrangle, Cordilleran fold and thrust belt, southwest Montana, Ashchoff, J.L., Schmitt, J.G. , 2005 MBMG 521 Preliminary geologic map of the eastern Flint Creek basin, west-central Montana, Portner, R., Hendrix. M., 2005 MBMG 522 Preliminary geologic map of the Big Hole Pass-Lost Trail Pass area, Lopez, D.A., O’Neill, M., Ruppel, E.T., 2005 MBMG 523 Geologic map of the Upper Clark Fork Valley between Garrison and Bearmouth, southwestern Montana, Berg, R.B., 2005 MBMG 524 Geologic map of the Red Lodge Area, Carbon County, Lopez. D.A., 2005 MBMG 525 Geologic map of the Bachelor Mountain 7.5’ quadrangle, southwest Montana, Janecke, S.U., Dorsey, R.J., Kickham J., Matoush, J.P., McIntosh, W., 2005 MBMG 527 2004 consent decree update, water-level monitoring and water-quality sampling Butte underground mines and Berkeley Pit, Butte, Montana, Duaime, T.E., Metesh, J.J., 2005 MBMG 528 2004 Annual coalbed methane regional ground-water monitoring report: Montana portion of the Powder River Basin, Wheaton, J., Donato, T.A., Reddish, S., Hammer. L., 2005

86 Biennial Report of Activities and Programs, 2004–2006

MBMG 529 Geologic map of the Ennis 30’ x 60’ quadrangle, Madison and Gallatin counties, Montana, and Park County, Wyoming, Kellogg, .S., Williams, V.S., 2005 MBMG 530 Expansion of the monitoring-well network for the assessment of agricultural chemicals in Montana ground water, Madison, J.P., Hargrave, P.A., Rose, J.C., 2005 MBMG 531 Geologic map of the Stark South 7.5’ map, western Montana, Lonn, J.D., Smith, L.N., 2006 MBMG 532 Helena Valley ground water: Pharmaceuticals, personal care products, endocrine disruptors (PPCPs), and microbial indicators of fecal contamination, Miller, K. J., Meeks, J., 2006 MBMG 533 Bedrock and surﬁ cial geologic map of the Red Rock 7.5’ quadrangle, Beaverhead County, southwestern Montana, Regalla, C.S., Reyman, D.K.S., Anastasio, D.J., Pazzaglio, F.J., 2006 MBMG 535 Geologic map of the Upper Clark Fork Valley between Bearmouth and Missoula, southwestern Montana, Berg, R.B., 2006 MBMG 536 Preliminary geologic map of the Montana Parts of the Goldstone Mountain and Goldstone Pass 7.5’ quadrangle, southwestern Montana, Lopez, D.A., O’Neill, M., Ruppel, E.T., 2006 Miscellaneous Contributions MC 20 Montana seismicity report for 2004, Stickney, M.C., 2006 Reports of Investigation RI 12 Available coal resources of the Otter and Reanus Cone 7.5-minute quadrangles, Powder River County, Montana, Wilde, E.M., Sandau, K.L., 2004 RI 13 Salt loads in an intermittent prairie stream: Sage Creek hydrogeologic basin, northern Montana, Miller, K.J., 2004 RI 14 Available coal resources of the Half Moon Hill and Taintor Desert 7.5’ quadrangles, Rosebud and Big Horn Counties, Montana, Wilde, E.M., Sandau, K.L., 2005 Special Publications SP 117 Probabilistic earthquake hazard maps for the State of Montana, Wong, I., Olig, S., Dober, M., Wright, D., Nemser, E., Lageson, D., Silva, W. Stickney, M.S., Lemieux, M., Anderson, L., 2005