Community Relations Plan
Rainy, Sunset, and Kromona Mine and Mill Sites Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act (CERCLA) Clean-Up Project
Prepared by: Curtis Spalding Environmental Coordinator Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest
and
Rod Lentz On-Scene Coordinator Okanogan and Wenatchee National Forests
Approved By: ______Date: ______Y. ROBERT IWAMOTO Forest Supervisor Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest
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TABLE OF CONTENTS OVERVIEW ...... 3
BACKGROUND ...... 4 Rainy Mine and Mill ...... 4 Sunset Mine and Mill ...... 5 Kromona Mine and Mill ...... 6
SURROUNDING COMMUNITIES ...... 8
COMMUNICATION STRATEGY ...... 8 History of Community Involvement and Project Awareness ...... 8 Key Community Concerns ...... 9
TACTICS ...... 10
ACTION PLAN ...... 12
APPENDICES
A. Project Location Maps B. Interview Questions/Responses C. Key Contacts D. Tribal Consultation E. News Releases/Updates F. Comments/Responses/Meeting Notes G. Legal Notices
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Rainy, Sunset, and Kromona Mine and Mill Sites Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act (CERCLA) Clean-Up Project Community Relations Plan
OVERVIEW
The Rainy, Sunset, and Kromona Mine and Mill Sites are specifically located: Rainy Site. King County, Washington, on Quartz Creek about 12 miles northeast of North Bend; T24N, R10E, Sections 9, SE/4 Sunset Site. Snohomish County, Washington, on Trout Creek about 5 miles northeast of Index; T27N, R10E, Section 1, SW/4NE/4 Kromona Site. Snohomish County, Washington, on Middle Fork of the South Fork Sultan River, about 10 miles northeast of Sultan; T28N, R9E, Section 13, N/2
Location maps of the Sites are in Appendix A.
All the Sites include the remnants of abandoned or inactive mine and ore beneficiation facilities. Building foundations are typically all that remain of once substantial mine and mill-related structures. In some cases portions of the collapsed structures are present along with the scattered pieces of equipment or debris. All of the mines were developed using underground techniques. Consequently, mine openings such as adits (mine entrances), stopes (mined-out ore bodies), shafts, and pits are present, and they represent substantial safety hazards to the public and wildlife. Mine waste in the form of waste rock removed from underground or surface cuts or milling tails are present and contain elevated concentrations of hazardous substances (metals).
The Forest Service has prepared Engineering Evaluation/Cost Analyses (EE/CAs) for each of the Rainy, Sunset, and Kromona Sites to evaluate alternatives for completing non-time- critical removal actions related to metal contamination therein. The EE/CA reports were prepared in accordance with the provisions of National Oil and Hazardous Substances Pollution Contingency Plan (NCP), 40 CFR 300.415(b)(4)(i). These regulations are authorized by and execute the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA) of 1980. The EE/CA reports document risks to human health and the environment, evaluate alternatives, and identify a preferred alternative to minimize or eliminate the risks associated with the release of a hazardous substance into the environment or impact on public health and welfare, as outlined in 40 CFR 300.415(b)(2)(i)-(viii).
Copies of the EE/CA reports are posted on Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest website: http://www.fs.fed.us/r6/mbs/projects/cercla-hazmat-projects.shtml.
Site cleanup will be performed by the Forest Service under CERCLA cleanup authorities [42 USC 9604(a) and 7 CFR 2.60(m)] and Federal Executive Order 12580.
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BACKGROUND
This section gives further information about the location, history, and character of the subject Sites.
Rainy Mine and Mill Site
The Rainy Mine Site is located on a steep, heavily forested slope adjacent to Quartz Creek, which discharges to the Taylor River and ultimately to the Middle Fork of the Snoqualmie River (MFSR) near North Bend. Access is currently limited due to winter 2008-9 bridge and road wash-outs. According to the USGS 7 ½ Minute Quadrangle Map – Lake Philippa (USGS, 1989), the Site location is:
Township 24 North, Range 10 East of the Willamette Meridian, Section 9 and 16 West Zone Adit Latitude: North 47° 34’ 13.3” Longitude: West 121° 33’ 20.5” East Zone Workings Latitude: North 47° 34’ 10.0” Longitude: West 121° 33’ 08.8” Elevation West Zone: 1,870 feet above mean seal level (amsl) East Zone: 1,790 feet amsl
The Rainy Site includes two areas of development: the east and west zones. The east zone consists of a double compartment shaft and winze, a mill foundation, miscellaneous debris, and a large waste rock pile (WR-1). Small exploration workings and prospects are also located east of WR-1. The volume of WR-1 is approximately 2,000 cubic yards (cy) and consists mainly of brown to yellow silty sand and gravel, with ubiquitous angular cobble and larger size rocks. Two seeps emanate from the base of the WR-1, creating a marshy area that eventually drains into Quartz Creek. In addition, iron precipitates were observed in the marsh area near the seeps and Quartz Creek. Tailings were not observed and were most likely discharged directly to Quartz Creek, a common practice prior to 1965, and carried away by the creek. The west zone contains one adit (Adit 1) and a small waste rock pile (WR-2). The volume of WR-2 is approximately 25 cy and consists of yellow to brown silt, sand, and angular cobbles.
This summarizes the ownership and operational history of the Site and the estimated ore production, gleaned from various publications (Rainy Site Inspection, CES, 2005).
1946 -- M.F. Gilbreath relocated the original claims and staked additional ground. 1951 -- A 50 ton-per-day floatation mill, bunkhouse, and assayer shed were constructed on the property (Grant, 1965), although processing information was not available. The mill was utilized until 1954 to process test shipments of ore. 1952 -- Property was leased to the Western States Copper Company. 1957 -- Anaconda Copper Company explored the property and drilled 2,128 feet of borings. 1967-- Inland Copper Ltd. advanced 6 holes covering 1,900 feet with an estimated reserve of 5,200,000 tons ore at 0.5 to 0.6% copper.
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The mine reportedly produced 2,000 tons of ore from 1951 to 1957, yielding values in copper, silver, and gold. The unpatented Rainy lode claim group currently includes the mine and mill area, but no significant activity on the claims is evident.
Risks to human and ecological receptors at Rainy are associated primarily with high metals concentrations, particularly arsenic, lead, and copper in waste rockunprocessed ore, mill tailings, seep and steam sediment, and some local soils, as well as elevated metals in the adit and seep water. Some impacts to benthic macro invertebrate populations are evident downstream from the Site in Quartz Creek, which provides habitat for cutthroat, a Federal species of concern.
Sunset Mine and Mill Site
The Sunset Site lies adjacent to Trout Creek, a tributary of the North Fork of the Skykomish River (NFSR), and is located within the Index Mining District. According to the USGS 7 ½ Minute Quadrangle Map - Baring (USGS, 1982), the Site location is:
Township 27 North, Range 10 East of the Willamette Meridian, Section 1 Latitude - North 47° 51’ 26.8” Longitude - West 121° 27’ 43.6” Elevation: Mill Foundation - 1,370 feet above mean seal level (amsl) Caved East Stope – 1,714 feet amsl
The Site consists of the concrete foundation of the former mill, one open adit (Adit 1), two collapsed adits (Adits 2 and 3) with associated waste rock piles, two large caved stopes (east and west), and one open ventilation raise. The two open stopes (collapsed) and the ventilation raise are extreme physical hazards at the Site. Although warning signs are posted, there are no physical barriers to prevent access to the open caverns and vertical highwalls (50 to 100 feet) created by these features. Mine workings are scattered upslope from the mill and can be reached by following the former road, which is now a hiking trail through thick vegetation. Six waste rock piles are present and represent a total of about 2,000 cy of soil and gravel-sized material. No tailings were found at the Site; based on historic photos and records, it appears that the tailings were deposited in and adjacent to Trout Creek and were carried away by the creek.
Water discharges from Adits 1 and 2. The Adit 1 drainage infiltrates into the ground approximately 50 feet from the portal. The discharge from Adit 2, the main haulage level, flows at a rate of 150 to 450 gallons per minute (gpm) and across a waste rock bench, eventually discharging into Trout Creek.
This summarizes the ownership and operational history of the Site and the estimated ore production gleaned from various publications (Sunset Site Inspection, CES, 2005).
1897 -- Sunset outcrop discovered by Ezra and Arthur Egbert 1902-1935 -- Sunset Copper Co. 1935 -- The Sunset Syndicate Corporation leased the mine to workers
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1941-1943 -- The mine and mill were operated by Kromona Mines Corporation of Seattle, WA 1946 -- Index Mining Co. purchased the mine from Sunset Syndicate. 1955 -- Granore Company (Grandby Resources, Mono Resources, and others) leased the property 1985 -- USFS acquired property through a land exchange with Murray Pacific Corporation, a forest products company. The federal government owns and manages the surface estate, but the mineral estate at the Site remains outstanding.
Production occurred in 1902 to 1905, 1916 to 1920, 1923 to 1931, and 1935 to 1946. Total production amounted to 12,912,015 pounds of copper, 155,971 ounces of silver, and 1,506 ounces of gold from 263,416 tons of crude ore (Toepfer, 1953).
Risks to human and ecological receptors at Sunset are associated primarily with high metals concentrations, particularly arsenic and copper in waste rock and some local soils, as well as elevated metals in the adit water. Trout Creek provides habitat for several Rare, Threatened, or Endangered species including Coho salmon and cutthroat trout.
Kromona Mine and Mill Site
Kromona is adjacent to the Middle Fork of the South Fork of the Sultan River (MFSF) approximately 3.75 miles upstream from Spada Lake (Figure 1 and Plate 1). According to the USGS 7 ½ Minute Quadrangle Map - Mt. Stickney (USGS, 1989), the Site location is described as:
Township 28 North, Range 9 East of the Willamette Meridian, Section 13 Mine / Main Adit: Latitude - 47°, 54', 57.2" Longitude - 121°, 35', 32.3" Elevation - 3,390 feet (ft) above mean seal level (amsl) Millsite: Latitude - 47°, 55', 4.8" Longitude - 121°, 36', 9.8" Elevation - 2,394 ft amsl
The Site is accessed from Olney Pass, south of Spada Lake. The mine is currently inaccessible by vehicle due to windfall across the access road as well as bridge damage and loss.
Kromona consists of two areas, the mill site and the upper workings. The upper workings contain the open Main Adit, the upper tram terminal, and a large waste rock pile. A second short adit, the Reservoir Adit, is located in the gulch 600 feet east and 300 feet above the Main Adit. Water drains from the Main Adit through a culvert beneath the upper workings area and infiltrates into the large waste rock pile below. The Reservoir Adit was historically dammed and used as the water supply for the upper camp and mine; currently water flows down the gulch along with surface water runoff. Miscellaneous wood and metal debris associated with the former bunkhouse, cookhouse, and tramway are present at the upper workings. In addition, an above ground storage tank (AST) is present on the upper level that most likely contained fuel (diesel) to operate machinery.
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A multi-tiered concrete foundation is all that remains of a120 ton per day (tpd) mill constructed in 1952 near the MFSF, 1,000 feet below the Main Adit. A tramway transported ore from the upper adits to the mill. Water collects and drains from the lowest foundation pad through a sump to an outfall located below. Outfall drainage flows downhill into a small pond eventually infiltrating into forest soils approximately 50 feet above the MFSF. An underground storage tank (UST) was located near the generator platform on the mill foundation level. Scattered drums and debris were encountered below the mill area and around the tram terminal. Based on field observations, the drums likely contained hydraulic oil or lube oil, and were either empty or were filled with soil or cement. A small tailings pond is located adjacent to the mill foundations. The pond is drained via an overflow channel.
The following summarizes the ownership and operational history of the Site and the estimated ore production gleaned from various publications (Sunset Site Inspection, CES, 2005).
1900 – Earliest prospects on the property known as the Scriber and Jones claims. Originally consisted of eight claims and five millsites, which were later abandoned. 1916 – Joe Krom, dba Kromona Mining and Smelting Co., relocates prospects and holds eight claims: Kromona, Kromona Numbers 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, Moonlight, and Moonlight No. 1. Developed the mine, includes road, trail, houses, and two tunnels. 1931 – Surveys and work begins on upper and lower tunnels; assays of high grade veins shows 24% copper, 0.09 ounces gold, and 4.11 ounces silver per ton (Keffer, 1931). 1937 – Kromona Mines Corporation takes possession of claims and continues mine development. 1952 – Extended underground development. Assays on 2.5 ton shipments to Tacoma smelter showed 0.58 ounce gold, 1.76 ounce silver, and 12.81% copper per ton. Assays show 0.58% to 15.2 % tungsten trioxide. A 500 pound sample assayed at 10.46% copper, 0.365 ounce gold, 1.653 ounce silver and 0.58% tungsten per ton. Jig tables, to be installed in mill, ordered to recover tungsten from mill tailings. Tunnel shed built of heavy timbers at Main Adit entrance. Headframe for tram constructed at tunnel level. Mill foundation completed (Kromona Mines Corporation, 1953). 1953 – Flotation Mill building completed by April. Two truckloads (roughly 13 tons) of concentrates shipped to Tacoma smelter resulting in 9,964 pounds of copper, 78 ounces silver, and 11.59 ounces gold (Spokane Chronicle, 1953). 1954 – 1,500 ft of underground workings developed. New electric hoist installed at mill level to move supplies to upper mine area. Operation of 100 tpd flotation mill resumed. Ore yielded 102 tons of copper concentrates shipped to Tacoma Smelter (Wallace Miner, 1955). 1955 – 15,000 tons of copper, gold, and silver ore developed. 1,500 pounds of rough tungsten concentrates not marketed. 1957 – Kromona Mines Corporation was liquidated in court; assets of mine were purchased by Mr. J.F. Brand who set up Victory Mines Corporation (WA-DNR, 1981). 1958 – Kromona Consolidated Mines acquires assets of Victory Mine Corporation and resumes development. 1968 – 500 feet of underground development and 600 feet of core drilling within 2 ,000 acres of land added to mine holdings; changes in mill for extraction of molybdenum.
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1970 – Property increases number of claims to 40 claims; Exel Explorations Ltd acquires an option to purchase the Mine.
Risks to human and ecological receptors at Kromona are associated primarily with high metals concentrations, particularly arsenic, lead, and copper in waste rock and some local soils, as well as elevated metals in the adit water. The Middle Fork South Fork Sultan River drains to Spada Reservoir, which supplies drinking water and power to Snohomish County.
SURROUNDING COMMUNITIES
King County. The Rainy Site is located in northern King County. According to census data, King County had a population of 1,864,300 in 2007, an increase of about one percent since 2006 (U.S. Census Bureau 2009). Seattle is the main city in King County with a population of 592,800 (WA Department of Financial Management 2009), which along with numerous suburbs provide the large majority of the county’s population. A very small proportion of the county population lives in small towns and cities such as those around the Rainy Site. These include Snoqualmie (population 9,360) and North Bend (4,710) south of the site, and Skykomish (210) north of the site.
The city of North Bend, historically based on timber harvest and agriculture, has now diversified into retail, tourism, recreation, as well as residential development.
The city of Snoqualmie, a short distance west of North Bend, has also changed from a traditional timber, dairy, and railroad economy to the present recreation, residential, retail, and resort economy.
The small town of Skykomish has a population a fraction of the estimated peak of "several thousand" in the 1920s. A major remediation project is underway to remove and replace the contaminated soil in the entire downtown area from the former Burlington Northern railroad switchyard compound.
Snohomish County. The Sunset and Kromona Sites are located in Snohomish County. The county population was 686,300 in 2007 (ibid). Darrington (population 1,136 according to 2000 census) and Granite Falls (population 2,347 according to 2000 census) are the closest towns to the Sites. The main industries for residents of both communities are listed as manufacturing (Darrington 25%, Granite Falls 23%); educational, health, and social services (Darrington 22%, Granite Falls 14%); and retail trade (Darrington 16%, Granite Falls 13%).
COMMUNICATION STRATEGY
History of Community Involvement and Project Awareness
This plan identifies actions to involve local officials and alert the general public, including specific user groups, of the potential hazardous conditions known to exist at the subject Sites, and to inform them of planned clean-up actions.
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The Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest completed the Abbreviated Preliminary Assessments (APA) for the Rainy and Sunset Mine and Mill Sites in September 2003, and for Kromona in August 2002. The APAs were performed by the Forest Service in accordance with the EPA “Guidance for Performing Preliminary Assessments Under CERCLA,” EPA’s “Improving Site Assessment: Abbreviated Preliminary Assessments” of 1999, the CERCLA of 1980, the “Superfund Amendments and Reauthorization Act” (SARA) of 1986, and the “National Contingency Plan” as outlined in 40 CFR Parts 300.410(c)(1)(i-v). The purpose of the assessments was to determine whether or not there was potential for release of contaminants to the environment and/or to humans.
The Forest Service retained Cascade Earth Sciences (CES) to perform Site Inspections (SI) at each of the Sites. The inspections were performed in accordance with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) publication, “Guidance for Performing Site Inspections Under CERCLA” (EPA, 1992). The purpose of the site inspection is to determine the potential threat to human health and/or the environment from issues identified during the APA. The work was performed under an existing five-year Forest Service Contract (#10181-1-D007) and in accordance with Purchase Order #AG-046W-P-06-0037.
The primary objectives of the Site Inspection were to:
(a) Assess the immediate or potential threat that mining wastes pose to human health and/or the environment, and
(b) Collect sufficient information to support a decision regarding the need for further action.
SI information was collected in general accordance with CERCLA protocols and documentation requirements for assessments involving hazardous substances. Specifically, as outlined in the EPA CERCLA guidance document (EPA, 1992), “the sampling locations are strategically planned to identify the substances present, determine if hazardous substances are being released to the environment, and determine whether or not hazardous substances have impacted specific targets.” The site investigation field activities included sampling and analyzing soil, waste rock, plant tissue, surface water, and sediment samples from the site and vicinity.
The Forest Service retained Cascade Earth Sciences (CES) and Millennium Science Engineering (MSE) to perform Streamlined Human Health and Ecological Risk Assessments (SRAs) at each of the Sites. The assessments were performed in accordance with the EPA and Washington State human health and ecological risk assessment regulations and guidelines. The purpose of the SRA is to determine the risk to human and ecological receptors of hazardous substances present at the Sites. Potential risks and hazards are evaluated by comparing Site-specific chemical concentrations to readily available risk-based screening concentrations for selected human health and ecological exposure pathways. The work was performed under Forest Service Contract (#10181-1-D007) and in accordance with Purchase Orders #AG-046W-P-06-0019, -0020, and - 0021.
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Copies of the above APA, SI, and SRA reports are posted to Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest website: http://www.fs.fed.us/r6/mbs/projects/cercla-hazmat-projects.shtml
Key Community Concerns. Several key contactsin the communities (see Contacts below) were interviewed to gauge initial understanding of and interest in the subject Sites and their associated risks to humans and the environment. The main concerns with the existing sites were related to threats to water quality, especially from arsenic. There were more concerns about the proposed clean-up, focusing on loss of mining artifacts and changing access to the sites. Water pollution and wildlife were among the initial concerns of Tribal contacts, along with an interest in meeting with the Forest Service and establishing a working relationship. Local residents were interested in protection of artifacts and losing access. One property owner questioned the government spending money to fix a problem when nobody lives there. An environmental group contact wanted to ensure the work is completed.
Almost all those interviewed expressed an interest in receiving information regarding the mine site and the status of cleanup. As the Community Relations Plan is implemented, the public will become informed of site contamination and efforts to do clean-up. As a result, there may be individuals and organizations that will become more interested and involved as they learn more about the situation. As cleanup efforts are implemented at the site, additional concerns may surface as a result of the impact those actions may have on the environment. Public notice and a 30-day public comment period have been provided following completion of the EE/CA.
The three sites receive relatively light human visitation because of their remoteness and difficulty of access. Tribal contacts indicate long-term historical use by Tribal members. The popularity of abandoned mine sites for recreational exploration is common in the area. A number of people enjoy exploring these sites, although not as many as the nearby Monte Cristo mine clean-up site. As cleanup activities begin and become publicly known, the sites may experience increased interest from curious local residents and recreational visitors.
TACTICS The community relations program for Rainy, Sunset, and Kromona Mine and Mill Sites is intended to allow Forest users and adjacent communities the opportunity to learn about and give feedback to the cleanup effort, without unduly alarming people about potential hazards that may be present. To be effective, the community relations program should present the project in the light of “a real need to take action” for the benefit of the environment and Forest users, recognizing the impacts it might impose on certain recreational and historic values.
The community relations program provides the following approaches:
1. Enlist the support and participation of local officials in coordinating community relations activities. Appropriate officials to involve in the community relations program include the Snohomish and King County Commissioners and County Health District officials, as well as the Mayors and City Councils of Darrington, Granite Falls, Skykomish, Snoqualmie, and North Bend. Regular updates of community reaction and progress with the project will follow. (See Interview Questions/Responses, Appendix B.) 2. Contact Federal and State Elected Officials. Letters will be sent to provide information and offer to meet with representatives at both Federal and State levels of
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government, as needed. The letters need to reach these officials at the same time County and local officials are notified. This will be done prior to providing information to the general public. (See Key Contacts, Appendix C.) 3. Contact Sauk-Suiattle, Stillaguamish, Tulalip, and Upper Skagit Tribes. A letter will be sent to provide information and offer to meet with local Tribal representatives as needed. This letter needs to reach the Tribe at the same time County and local officials are notified. This will also be done prior to providing information to the general public. (See Tribal Consultation, Appendix D.) 4. Advise the general public of the project. News releases will present factual information about the existing conditions at subject Sites and the timeframe in which cleanup actions will occur. These releases will be designed to inform the public and identify ways in which the public can provide input to the project. (See News Releases/Updates, Appendix E.) 5. Contact Special Interest Organizations. Letters will be sent outlining the project to organized groups that have shown interest in Forest Service actions or requested they be informed of new projects or proposals. They will be provided with the opportunity to comment on the project or otherwise become engaged. (See Key Contacts, Appendix C.) 6. Public Comments. Public comments will be collected and analyzed throughout the project. After completion of the EE/CA, a notice of availability will be published in the newspaper of record. A public comment period of not less than 30 days will be provided for submission of oral and written comments. These comments and agency responses will be recorded in the Removal Action Memo which will be available in the Administrative Record File. (See Comments/Responses/Meeting Notes, Appendix F.) 7. Let the people “set the pace” for the community relations program. After the initial announcement of this project to governmental officials and the public, the Forest Service will monitor the reaction and response to the project to determine the need for additional contacts, either by the Forest Service or by other local officials. The level of public interest will determine if public meetings are warranted. The Forest Service will not be overly aggressive in trying to generate interest in this project, but will provide the public the opportunity to get involved and respond according to their level of interest. 8. Official Notices. The official newspaper of record for the cleanup for each Site will be identified and all legal notices will be published in a timely fashion. (See Legal Notices, Appendix G.) 9. Information Repositories. Fact sheets, technical summaries, site reports (including this Community Relations Plan), and other key documents for this CERCLA project will be placed in the information repositories. Paper and/or electronic copies of the key documents will be located at the Darrington, Skykomish, and North Bend Ranger District Offices; the Forest Supervisor’s office in Everett; and if demand indicates, the public libraries in Darrington, Skykomish, and North Bend. These sites will also serve as collections sites, and information will be provided for the public to provide written comments on the project.
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The complete Administrative Record Files for these projects are available on the Forest website at http://www.fs.fed.us/r6/mbs/projects/cercla-hazmat-cleanup- projects/index.shtml. 10. Monitoring Public Response. Through the course of the project, the determination for additional contact, either by the Forest Service or by other local officials, will be made. The Forest Service will not be overly aggressive in trying to generate interest in this project, but will provide the public the opportunity to get involved and respond according to their level of interest. (See Comments/Responses/Meeting Notes, Appendix F.) 11. Providing Updates. The project will be monitored, and officials will be provided with periodic updates and progress reports. The lines of communication will be kept open to all who desire to be informed of the project and specifically with County officials. (Ongoing.)
ACTION PLAN
Task & Who Contacts Who Is Responsible When Develops or Sets Up for Delivery Use Contact List Curtis Spalding Letters to Federal, April 2010
State, County, and Local Elected Officials Letters to Tribal Sauk-Suiattle Curtis Spalding April 2010 Contacts – Project Tulalip Manager Stillaguamish
Interview Meetings Ongoing, initial King County Jim Franzel, with County Officials interviews conducted Snoqualmie DR (set up by District in May and June Snohomish County Barb Busse (ret), Rangers) 2008. Complete by Skykomish DR August 2009
Letters to Notify District Reviews Curtis Spalding April 2010 Interested Parties; Use Mailing List and District Mailing List Makes Determination; Emphasize this is not
a NEPA Project. Website Mt. Baker- Renee Bodine, Ongoing Snoqualmie Internet Public Affairs Shop Website. Rod Lentz, On-Scene Coord.
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Tasks & Who Contact Who Is Responsible When Develops or Sets Up for Delivery News Release See attached media Renee Bodine, Curtis As Appropriate list. Spalding, Rod Lentz Official Notices in Paper(s) of record; Rod Lentz December 2008 Paper of Record consult Curtis On-Scene Coord; Spalding Curtis Spalding April 2010 Information Mt. Baker- Peter Forbes and Rod On-going Repositories Snoqualmie Lentz Supervisor’s Office; Darrington RD; Verlot Visitor Center; Darrington Library Monitoring of Public Ongoing Process All On-going Response - All
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION AND PUBLIC RESPONSE
Additional information about this project can be obtained from the following Forest Service sources. Public response to the project is welcomed.
o Rod Lentz, On-Scene Coordinator (Technical Contact) Okanogan/Wenatchee National Forests 1240 South Second Ave. Okanogan, WA 98840 Phone (509) 826-3274 Email: [email protected]
o Curtis Spalding, Environmental Coordinator (Alternate Contact) Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest 2930 Wetmore Ave. Suite 3A Everett WA 98201 Phone (425) 783-6033 Email: [email protected]
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Appendix A
Project Location Maps
ALTERNATE RIDGE REPOSITORY LOCATION
PROJECT SITE
!
Millennium Science & Engineering, Inc. REFERENCE: U.S.G.S. 7.5 MINUTE QUADRANGLE, MSE BARING, WASHINGTON 1969 1605 North 13th Street VICINITY MAP Boise, ID 83702 USA SCALE Phone: (208) 345-8292 00.510.25 SUNSET MINE Miles MT. BAKER SNOQUALMIE 0500 1,000 2,000 3,000 4,000 NATIONAL FOREST, WASHINGTON Feet B2473.D 08-15-07 MSE FIGURE 1
:J\mse\puett\wash_mines\sunset_vicinity.mxd 08.15.07
RM-BGS-1
RM-BG-V1 PROJECT SITE #
QC-01
! RM-BGS-2
RM-BG-V2# RM-BGS-3 RM-BG-V3# !QC-02 !QC-03
RIDGE REPOSITORY
TC-01 !QC-04 ! ! !TC-02
Legend MSE Millennium Science & Engineering, Inc. ! Aquatic Sampling Station (Quartz Creek) Vicinity Map QC-01 1605 North 13th Street
! Aquatic Sampling Station (Taylor Creek)
TC-01 Boise, ID 83702 USA # Rainy Mine Background Soil Sample Location Phone: (208) 345-8292 RM-BGS 0500 1,000 2,000 REFERENCE: U.S.G.S. 7.5 MINUTE QUADRANGLE, Feet LAKE PHILIPPA, WASHINGTON 1987 B2473.F rainy_mine_fig1.mxd 5/08/08 Figure 1
:MSE\puettl\wash_mines\rainy_mine_fig1.mxd 3.17.08 Olney Pass Road
Access Road FR 6110 Potential Repository Location
Kromona Mine Upper Workings
)" )"
Kromona Mine ! Millsite
MSE Millennium Science & Engineering, Inc. 01,000 2,000 4,000 6,000 8,000 Vicinity Map Feet 1555 Shoreline Dr., Ste. 150 Boise, ID 83702 USA Kromona Mine SCALE:1 inch = 3,333 feet Phone: (208) 345-8292 REFERENCE: U.S.G.S. 7.5 MINUTE QUADRANGLE, MOUNT STICKNEY, WA 1986 kromona_f1.mxd 12/9/08 Figure 1
:MSE\tibbets\kromona_f1.mxd 12.9.08
Appendix B
Interview Questions/Responses
United States Forest Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie 2930 Wetmore Ave., Suite 3A Department of Service National Forest Everett, WA 98201 Agriculture Supervisor’s Office (425) 783-6000
INTERVIEW QUESTIONS
RAINY, SUNSET, KROMONA AREA MINES SITE STAKEHOLDER INTERVIEW QUESTIONS
Name:______Title:______Organization:______
1. When and how did you first learn about the Site?
2. How long have you lived in the area? Where do you live in relation to the Site?
3. What are your current concerns regarding the Site or the proposed cleanup?
4. Do you have information about the Site which might help us in our cleanup?
5. How would you rate the overall level of interest within this community (a) in environmental issues generally (b) in the Site activities? [On scale of 1 (low) to 5 (high)].
6. How can the USDA Forest Service best provide you information concerning the Site? (e.g. fact sheets, public meetings). How often would you like to receive information?
7. When we hold public or community meetings, what times and locations would be most convenient?
United States Forest Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie 2930 Wetmore Ave., Suite 3A Department of Service National Forest Everett, WA 98201 Agriculture Supervisor’s Office (425) 783-6000
8. Do you have any comments, suggestions, or recommendations regarding the Site cleanup?
9. What contacts have you had with government personnel about the Site? Were the employees responsive to your inquiries?
10. Who would you or your community call if you had questions about hazardous substance or chemical contamination?
11. How would you like to be involved in future activities?
12. Can you suggest other individuals or groups that should be contacted for additional information?
13. Is the placement of Site related documents on the MBS National Forest internet web page for public viewing helpful?
14. If you would like to be added to a mailing list for future updates on Monte Cristo Site activities, please provide your mail and e-mail addresses.
Return to: Curtis Spalding, Community Involvement Coordinator, Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, 2930 Wetmore Ave., Suite 3A, Everett, WA 98201. (425) 355-4245.
United States Forest Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie 2930 Wetmore Ave., Suite 3A Department of Service National Forest Everett, WA 98201 Agriculture Supervisor’s Office (425) 783-6000
Rainy, Sunset & Kromona Mines -- SITE STAKEHOLDER QUESTIONNAIRE
Name: Michael Mayer Title: Legal Director Organization: Washington Environmental Council
Contacted by Peter Forbes ~ 6/19/08
Which Site(s) are you interested in? Rainy _____ Sunset______Kromona_____
1. When and how did you first learn about the Rainy/Sunset/Kromona Site?
As part of some of the reports related regarding Monte Cristo in 2005 or so.
2. How long have you lived in the Rainy/Sunset/Kromona area? Where do you live in relation to the Site?
Organization based in Seattle, membership (visits) & recreate in area.
3. What are your current concerns regarding the Site or the proposed cleanup?
Ensuring process moves forward appropriate pace, ensure priority and funding are maintained.
4. Do you have information about the Site which might help us in our cleanup?
Probably not anything the FS doesn’t already have.
5. How would you rate the overall level of interest within this community (a) in environmental issues generally (b) in the Site activities? [On scale of 1 (low) to 5 (high)].
a) 5 b) 5
United States Forest Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie 2930 Wetmore Ave., Suite 3A Department of Service National Forest Everett, WA 98201 Agriculture Supervisor’s Office (425) 783-6000
6. How can the USDA Forest Service best provide you information concerning the Site? (e.g., fact sheets, public meetings). How often would you like to receive information?
Fact sheets & progress reports at a quarterly schedule – show timeline & bench marks.
7. When we hold public or community meetings, what times and locations would be most convenient?
Early evening in Everett or Seattle.
8. Do you have any comments, suggestions, or recommendations regarding the Site cleanup?
Nothing specific – not trying to design cleanup, just want to ensure work is completed.
9. What contacts have you had with government personnel about the Site? Were the employees responsive to your inquiries?
Some contacts prior to lawsuit and 6 day notice of intent; FS has been responsive.
10. Who would you or your community call if you had questions about hazardous substance or chemical contamination?
DOE (Wash State Dept of Ecology)
11. How would you like to be involved in future activities?
Make sure parties stay informed and work on track. Would like to have a contact person they go to.
United States Forest Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie 2930 Wetmore Ave., Suite 3A Department of Service National Forest Everett, WA 98201 Agriculture Supervisor’s Office (425) 783-6000
12. Can you suggest other individuals or groups that should be contacted for additional information?
Wa PIRG, Hiking Clubs, but no one specific.
13. Is the placement of Site related documents on the MBS National Forest internet web page for public viewing helpful?
Yes, has looked at web page.
14. If you would like to be added to a mailing list for future updates on the Rainy/Sunset/Kromona activities, please provide your mail and e-mail addresses.
Michael Mayer Washington Environmental Council 1402 3rd. Ave, Suite 1400 Seattle, WA 98101 [email protected]
Return to: Curtis Spalding, Community Involvement Coordinator, Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, 2390 Wetmore Ave., Suite 3A, Everett, WA 98201 (425 783-6033).
United States Forest Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie 2930 Wetmore Ave., Suite 3A Department of Service National Forest Everett, WA 98201 Agriculture Supervisor’s Office (425) 783-6000
Rainy, Sunset & Kromona Mines -- SITE STAKEHOLDER QUESTIONNAIRE
Name: Kal Klass Title: President Organization: Monte Cristo Preservation Association
Contacted by Peter Forbes ~ 6/19/08
Which Site(s) are you interested in? Rainy _____ Sunset______Kromona_____
1. When and how did you first learn about the Rainy/Sunset/Kromona Site?
1983 +/-, due to history and popularity as a hiking area.
2. How long have you lived in the Rainy/Sunset/Kromona area? Where do you live in relation to the Site?
Property owner since 1987 (in MC), lives in Seattle.
3. What are your current concerns regarding the Site or the proposed cleanup?
Preservation of artifacts because that’s all that’s left of the history (MCPA) Why does government want to send money to fix problem when no body “lives” there, why spend money?
4. Do you have information about the Site which might help us in our cleanup?
Personally sampled water out of 76 Basin – showed e. coli in miniscule amounts and no arsenic (two locations) Documentation of artifacts found on site by Louise Lindgreen Short work season to get things done (3 months).
5. How would you rate the overall level of interest within this community (a) in environmental issues generally (b) in the Site activities? [On scale of 1 (low) to 5 (high)].
United States Forest Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie 2930 Wetmore Ave., Suite 3A Department of Service National Forest Everett, WA 98201 Agriculture Supervisor’s Office (425) 783-6000
a) 5 b) 5
6. How can the USDA Forest Service best provide you information concerning the Site? (e.g., fact sheets, public meetings). How often would you like to receive information?
Emails, as often new information becomes available.
7. When we hold public or community meetings, what times and locations would be most convenient?
Fridays; Everett, WA
8. Do you have any comments, suggestions, or recommendations regarding the Site cleanup?
Active MCPA members are concerned with 1. Fragile nature of environment. 2. Protection of artifacts in area. 3. Accurate signing of area where there may be contaminated soils/water 4. Signs pointing to leaving artifacts alone
9. What contacts have you had with government personnel about the Site? Were the employees responsive to your inquiries?
With lands/special uses staff recreation staff & district ranger on district; yes
10. Who would you or your community call if you had questions about hazardous substance or chemical contamination?
Hotline phone for hazmat; DOE
United States Forest Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie 2930 Wetmore Ave., Suite 3A Department of Service National Forest Everett, WA 98201 Agriculture Supervisor’s Office (425) 783-6000
11. How would you like to be involved in future activities?
Notification through email; potential to help w/ some aspect of cleanup not requiring specialized training/equipment.
12. Can you suggest other individuals or groups that should be contacted for additional information?
Bill Rawlins, Louise Lundgrin, Dave Cameron (MCPA members)
13. Is the placement of Site related documents on the MBS National Forest internet web page for public viewing helpful?
N/A
14. If you would like to be added to a mailing list for future updates on the Rainy/Sunset/Kromona activities, please provide your mail and e-mail addresses.
Bill Rawlins, Dave Cameron, [email protected] Louise Lundgren, [email protected] Kal Klass, [email protected]
Return to: Curtis Spalding, Community Involvement Coordinator, Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, 2390 Wetmore Ave., Suite 3A, Everett, WA 98201 (425 783-6033).
United States Forest Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie 2930 Wetmore Ave., Suite 3A Department of Service National Forest Everett, WA 98201 Agriculture Supervisor’s Office (425) 783-6000
Rainy, Sunset & Kromona Mines -- SITE STAKEHOLDER QUESTIONNAIRE
Name: Joyce Jones/Lyla Boyd Title: Mayor/City Clerk Organization: City of Darrington
Contacted by Peter Forbes ~ 6/19/08
Which Site(s) are you interested in? Rainy _____ Sunset______Kromona_____
3. When and how did you first learn about the Rainy/Sunset/Kromona Site?
Visited mine area when she was young w/family. Stayed at Lodge at Monte Cristo – 65 yrs ago
4. How long have you lived in the Rainy/Sunset/Kromona area? Where do you live in relation to the Site?
71 years – Darrington
3. What are your current concerns regarding the Site or the proposed cleanup?
Old mine shafts; high levels of arsenic in water.
4. Do you have information about the Site which might help us in our cleanup?
No
5. How would you rate the overall level of interest within this community (a) in environmental issues generally (b) in the Site activities? [On scale of 1 (low) to 5 (high)].
a) 3 b) 3
United States Forest Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie 2930 Wetmore Ave., Suite 3A Department of Service National Forest Everett, WA 98201 Agriculture Supervisor’s Office (425) 783-6000
6. How can the USDA Forest Service best provide you information concerning the Site? (e.g., fact sheets, public meetings). How often would you like to receive information?
Fact sheets for dispersal to citizens Quarterly or as important points come to light
7. When we hold public or community meetings, what times and locations would be most convenient?
Darrington Community Center - evenings
8. Do you have any comments, suggestions, or recommendations regarding the Site cleanup?
As aesthetically pleasing as possible given the location
9. What contacts have you had with government personnel about the Site? Were the employees responsive to your inquiries?
N/A at this point
12. Who would you or your community call if you had questions about hazardous substance or chemical contamination?
DOE & EPA
13. How would you like to be involved in future activities?
To be kept in contact for developments
United States Forest Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie 2930 Wetmore Ave., Suite 3A Department of Service National Forest Everett, WA 98201 Agriculture Supervisor’s Office (425) 783-6000
12. Can you suggest other individuals or groups that should be contacted for additional information?
Historical Societies – Darrington, Granite Falls, Arlington, others?
13. Is the placement of Site related documents on the MBS National Forest internet web page for public viewing helpful?
Haven’t looked, but seems like it should help.
14. If you would like to be added to a mailing list for future updates on the Rainy/Sunset/Kromona activities, please provide your mail and e-mail addresses.
Return to: Curtis Spalding, Community Involvement Coordinator, Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, 2390 Wetmore Ave., Suite 3A, Everett, WA 98201 (425 783-6033).
United States Forest Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie 2930 Wetmore Ave., Suite 3A Department of Service National Forest Everett, WA 98201 Agriculture Supervisor’s Office (425) 783-6000
MONTE CRISTO AREA MINES -- SITE STAKEHOLDER QUESTIONNAIRE
Name: Shawn Yanity Title: Chair person Organization: Stillaquamish Tribe Board of Directors
Contacted by Peter Forbes ~ 6/19/08
Which Site(s) are you interested in? Rainy _____ Sunset______Kromona_____
1. When and how did you first learn about the Rainy/Sunset/Kromona Site?
Tribe has historic/pre–historic uses of the area.
2. How long have you lived in the Rainy/Sunset/Kromona area? Where do you live in relation to the Site?
Tribe hunted elk in Monte Cristo area Village sites on S.F. Stillaquamish; passes & trails used for trade & travel.
3. What are your current concerns regarding the Site or the proposed cleanup?
Levels of arsenic; water quality issues
4. Do you have information about the Site which might help us in our cleanup?
Not sure, but will look into it
5. How would you rate the overall level of interest within this community (a) in environmental issues generally (b) in the Site activities? [On scale of 1 (low) to 5 (high)].
a) 5 b) 5
United States Forest Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie 2930 Wetmore Ave., Suite 3A Department of Service National Forest Everett, WA 98201 Agriculture Supervisor’s Office (425) 783-6000
6. How can the USDA Forest Service best provide you information concerning the Site? (e.g., fact sheets, public meetings). How often would you like to receive information?
Whatever works best; quarterly meetings w/natural resource staff & cultural resource staff.
7. When we hold public or community meetings, what times and locations would be most convenient?
Time or location not as much a concern; offered up tribal office meeting room.
8. Do you have any comments, suggestions, or recommendations regarding the Site cleanup?
Not at this time until there is more in formation; want to work w/us on resolution.
9. What contacts have you had with government personnel about the Site? Were the employees responsive to your inquiries?
So far yes
10. Who would you or your community call if you had questions about hazardous substance or chemical contamination?
Tribal Police handles Hazmat, working with DOE.
11. How would you like to be involved in future activities?
Quarterly meetings as identified in #6; establish a working relationship.
United States Forest Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie 2930 Wetmore Ave., Suite 3A Department of Service National Forest Everett, WA 98201 Agriculture Supervisor’s Office (425) 783-6000
12. Can you suggest other individuals or groups that should be contacted for additional information?
Not at this time
13. Is the placement of Site related documents on the MBS National Forest internet web page for public viewing helpful?
Hasn’t looked at the website
14. If you would like to be added to a mailing list for future updates on the Rainy/Sunset/Kromona activities, please provide your mail and e-mail addresses.
Shawn Yanity P.O. 277 Arlington, WA 98223 – 0277 [email protected]
Return to: Curtis Spalding, Community Involvement Coordinator, Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, 2390 Wetmore Ave., Suite 3A, Everett, WA 98201 (425 783-6033).
CERCLA INTERVIEWS LOG -- KROMONA & SUNSET MINES BARB BUSSE, Skykomish District Ranger May 2008
NAME DATE TIME DISSCUSION CONTACT INFORMATION Libby Nelson 5/7/08 2:30 pm Issues: Water quality, any 360-716-4639 Env. Policy Anal. archaeological finds (Tribal Email: Tulalip Tribe related). Put Libby on mailing lnelson@tulaliptribes- list. She’ll check to see if there’s nsn.gov someone else I should talk to 6700 Totem Beach Road also. Marysville, WA 98271- 9714 Shawn Tobin- 5/7/08 2:35 pm Doesn’t want to be a burden. 360-793-0420 Wallace Falls Wants to be on the mailing list. PO Box 106 State Park Doesn’t have any concerns. Gold Bar, WA 98251 Dawn Presler, 5/7/08 2:40 pm Would like to be in the process- 425-783-1709 Relicensing Kromona P.O. Box 1107 Spec., Everett, WA 98206-1107 Snohomish Co. P.U.D. No. 1 Julie Sklare, 5/7/08 2:45 pm Definitely want to be involved, 3200 Cedar Street Water Quality, also in the Kromona Everett, WA 98201 City of Everett development of the process. Phone: 425-257-7208 Brenda Glenn- 5/7/08 2:50 pm Would like updates (on mailing [email protected]. Dan list) via e-mail (in case gov Kristiansen’s constituents make inquiries) Leg. Assistant Louise Lindgren 5/7/08 3:55 pm Wants to be on mailing list. Phone: 360-793-1534 Northwest Should have all writers of Email: Underground discovering WA mines [email protected] Explorations. Donna Murphy, 5/7/08 Wants to be on mailing list. [email protected] City of Sultan .wa.us Darrell 5/7/08 Send an e-mail with the Email: Jacobson, questions http:[email protected] Northwest Underground Explorations Bart Cannon 5/7/08 General interest in maintaining 1041 NE 100th. St. public access to historic mines Seattle, WA 981 Phone: (206) 522-9233
TALKING POINTS TO CONVEY IN INTERVIEWS: 1) Has been an identified health risk – acid mine drainage, or hazard on mineralized materials that needs to be dealt with. 2) Moving toward taking an action to remedy this. 3) Seeking comments on what we’re doing. 4) Not NEPA 5) Reference the website 6) Moving forward with project; how do you want to be involved?
Appendix C
Key Contacts
Rainy, Sunset & Kromona Mine
CONTACTS
A. Federal Elected Officials Senator Maria Cantwell 2930 Wetmore Avenue, Suite 9B Sally Hintz—NW Washington Director Everett, WA 98201 [email protected] Phone: (425) 303-0114 Senator Patty Murray 2930 Wetmore Avenue, Ste. 903 Shawn Bills—NW Regional Representative Everett, Washington 98201 [email protected] Phone: (425) 259-6515 Representative Rick Larson 2930 Wetmore Ave, Ste. 9F Jill McKinnie—District Director Everett, WA 98201 [email protected] Phone: (425) 252-3188 Adam LeMieux— Skagit County Community Liaison [email protected] Luke Loeffler—Snohomish County Community Liaison [email protected] Representative Jay Inslee 18560 1st Avenue NE, Suite E-800 Pete Mills, Community Liaison Shoreline, WA 98155-2150 [email protected] 206-361-0233 Representative Jim McDermott 1809 7th Avenue (1212 Tower Building) Darcy Nothnagle, Deputy District Director Seattle, WA 98101-1399 [email protected] (206) 553-7170 Representative Dave Reichert 2737 78th Avenue SE, Suite 202 Tom Young, South District Representative Mercer Island, WA 98040 [email protected] (206) 275-3438
B. State Elected Officials Senator Val Stevens 105 Newhouse Building P.O. Box 40439 Olympia WA 98504-0439 Phone: (360) 786-7676 Representative Dan Kristiansen 427A Legislative Building PO Box 40600 Olympia, WA 98504-0600 (360) 786-7967 Email: [email protected] Representative Kirk Pearson 720 Murdock St. (Breda Glen, Legal Asst.) Ste. 101 Sedro-Woolley, WA 98284 (360) 793-0565
C. Local Officials John Koster Snohomish County County Council 3000 Rockefeller Ave Snohomish County Council District 1 Everett, WA 98201 Phone: (425) 388-3411 Lyle Romack City of Granite Falls Mayor P.O. Box 1440 City of Granite Falls Granite Falls, WA 98252 Phone: (360) 691-6441 Joyce Jones/Lyla Boyd City of Darrington Mayor/City Clerk P.O. Box 397 City of Darrington Darrington, WA 98241 Phone: (360) 436-1131 Charlotte L. Mackner Town of Skykomish Mayor 119 4th Street N. City of Skykomish P.O. Box 308 Skykomish, WA 98288 Matt Larson City of Snoqualmie Mayor P.O. Box 987 City of Snoqualmie Snoqualmie, WA 98065 Kenneth G. Hearing City of North Bend Mayor 211 Main Avenue N. City of North Bend North Bend, WA 98045 Carolyn Eslick City of Sultan, Atten. Donna Murphy Mayor PO Box 1199 City of Sultan 319 Main Street Sultan, WA 98294-1199 [email protected] Buce Albert PO Box 88 Mayor Index, WA 98256 City of Index Phone: (360) 793-2488
D. State and Local Agencies Jason Shira 15 W. Yakima Ave -- Suite 200 Washington Department of Ecology Yakima, WA 98902-3452 Toxics Cleanup Program, Abandoned Mine Lands (509) 454-7834 Washington Department of Ecology Washington Department of Ecology Toxics Cleanup Program, Abandoned Mine Lands 3190 -160th Ave. SE Bellevue, WA 98008-5452 (425) 649-7054 Bob Everitt Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife Director Region 4 16018 Mill Creek Boulevard Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife Mill Creek, Washington 98012-1296 (425) 775-1311 ext. 118 Bill Wallace Department of Natural Resources Northwest Region Manager 919 N Townsend Street Department of Natural Resources Sedro Wooley, WA 98284-9395 Phone: (360) 854-2801 Shawn Tobin Wallace Falls State Park Park Ranger & Manager 14503 Wallace Lake Rd Wallace Falls State Park Gold Bar, WA 98251 Phone: (360) 793-0420 Steven Thomsen Snohomish County Public Works Public Works Director 3000 Rockefeller, M/S 607 Snohomish County Everett, WA 98201-4046 Phone: (425) 388-6667
Snohomish Health District Snohomish Health District Environmental Health Division 3020 Rucker Avenue Everett, WA 90201 Phone:(425) 339-5250 Public Health Public Health Seattle & King County Seattle & King County 401 5th Ave., Suite 1300 Seattle, WA 98104 Dept. of Natural Resources & Parks King County Dept. Natural Resources & Parks King County King County Courthouse 516 Third Avenue Seattle, WA 98104
E. Tribes Melvin Sheldon, Jr. 6700 Totem Beach Road Chairperson Marysville, WA 98271-9714 Tulalip Board of Directors cc: Kurt Nelson, Environmental Department Phone: (360) 651-4000
Libby Nelson, Env. Policy Analyst, Tulalip Tribe Phone: 360-716-4639 Email: [email protected] Janice Mabee 5318 Chief Brown Lane Chairperson Darrington, WA 98241-9420 Sauk-Suiattle Tribal Council cc: Richard Wolten Phone: (360) 436-0131 Shawn Yanity 3439 Stoluckquamish Lane Chairperson P.O. Box 277 Stillaguamish Board of Directors Arlington, WA 98223-0277 Phone: (360) 652-7362 Email: [email protected] Marilyn Scott 25944 Community Plaza Chairperson Sedro-Woolley, WA 98284-9721 Upper Skagit Tribal Council Cc: Scott Schuyler, Natural Resources Dept Phone: (360) 856-5501 Charlotte Williams 39015 172nd Avenue S.E. Chairperson Auburn WA 98092-9763 Muckleshoot Indian Tribal Council cc: Melissa Calvert, Wildlife & Fisheries Progrm Phone: (253) 939-3311 Joseph Mullen 8130 Railroad Ave Suite 103 Chairperson P.O. Box 969 Snoqualmie Tribe Snoqualmie WA 98065 cc: Ian Kanair, Environment & Natl Resources
F. Community Organizations, Environmental Groups, Citizens' Groups, and Private Citizens Joan Crooks 1402 Third Ave, Suite 1400 Michael Mayer Seattle, WA 98101 Washington Environmental Council Phone (206) 631-2600 Fax (206) 622-8113 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected]
Jim Davis 512 20th Street Executive Director Bellingham, WA 98225 North Cascades Conservation Council Phone: (360) 715-3458 Email: [email protected] Kathy Johnson 1429 Avenue D, PMB 198 Pilchuck Audubon Society Snohomish, WA 98290 425-252-0926 h: 927 Quinn Avenue Marysville, WA 98270360-659-7252 Email:[email protected] Lauar Skaer, Executive Director 10 N. Post St., Suite 305 Northwest Mining Association Spokane, WA 99201 509-624-1158 Email: [email protected] Darrell Jacobson Email: http:[email protected] Northwest Underground Explorations
G. Citizens and Site Land Owners David M. Gilbreath Robert C. Jackson William Lider Dave Cameron & Louise Lindgren
H. Media Contacts Newspaper Address Phone Seattle Times P.O. Box 70 Seattle, WA 98111 206 464-2121
[email protected] Everett Herald PO Box 930 Everett, WA 98206 425 339-3000
[email protected] Snoqualmie Valley P.O. Box 300, Snoqualmie, WA 98065 425 888-2311 Record PNWLocalNews.com http://www.pnwlocalnews.com/contact_us? c=y&curSection=&returnPath=/about_us Darrington Newspaper Use: Everett Herald & Skagit Publishing Skagit Publishing P.O. Box 578 Mt. Vernon, WA 98274 360 424-3251
http://www.goskagit.com/contact
[email protected] Skykomish Newspaper Use: Everett Herald or Seattle Times or PNW local news Granite Falls Newspaper Use: Everett Herald & Skagit Publishing
I. Interview Contacts Contact Person Responsible Washington Environmental Council Peter Forbes, Darrington District Ranger Darrington Mayor and City Clerk Peter Forbes, Darrington District Ranger Stillaguamish Tribe Board of Directors Peter Forbes, Darrington District Ranger Upper Skagit Tribe Peter Forbes, Darrington District Ranger Tulalip Tribe Barb Busse, Skykomish District Ranger State Representative Dan Kristiansen’s Legal Barb Busse, Skykomish District Ranger Assistant Louise Lindgren Barb Busse, Skykomish District Ranger Snohomish Public Utility District Barb Busse, Skykomish District Ranger City of Everett Barb Busse, Skykomish District Ranger
KEY MESSAGES AND TALKING POINTS
KEY MESSAGES
Who/What/Where/When
Key Message #1: The Forest Service has prepared Engineering Evaluation/Cost Analyses (EE/CAs) for completing three removal actions related to metal contamination at the Rainy, Sunset, and Kromona Mine and Mill Sites.
Key Message #2: The EECAs examine options for dealing with the Sites and identify a preferred alternative for isolating or removing contaminated materials. A 30-day public comment period has been completed for the Sites. Thirty-day public comment period for Sunset and Kromona began after the public notice was published in the newspaper of record.
TALKING POINTS
1. The locations of the Rainy, Sunset, and Kromona Mine and Mill Sites are: Rainy Mine, King County, Washington, on Quartz Cr. about 12 mi. northeast of North Bend; T24N, R10E, Sections 9, SE/4 Sunset Mine, Snohomish County, Washington, on Trout Creek about 5 miles northeast of Index; T27N, R10E, Section 1, SW/4NE/4 Kromona Mine, Snohomish County, Washington, on Middle Fork of the South Fork Sultan River, about 10 miles northeast of Sultan; T28N, R9E, Section 13, N/2
2. All the Sites include remnants of abandoned or inactive mine and ore beneficiation facilities. Building foundations are typically all that remain of once substantial mine and mill related structures. In some cases portions of the collapsed structures are present along with the scattered pieces of equipment or debris. All of the mines were developed using underground techniques. Consequently mine openings such as adits (mine entrances), stopes (mined out ore bodies), shafts, and pits are present and represent substantial safety hazards to the public and wildlife. Mine waste in the form of waste rock removed from underground or surface cuts or milling tails are present and contain elevated concentrations of hazardous substances (metals).
3. The Forest Service is performing a response under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980 (CERCLA) cleanup authorities [42 USC 9604(a) and 7 CFR 2.60(m)] and Federal Executive Order 12580. CERCLA sets forth a process of discovery, investigation, evaluation, public involvement, cleanup, and monitoring and maintenance for Sites demonstrating a potential for or an actual release of hazardous substances into the environment.
4. Risks to human and ecological receptors at the subject abandoned or inactive mine sites are associated primarily with high metals concentrations, particularly arsenic in wasterock and some local soils, as well as elevated metals in the surface water and sediment.
QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS
Q&A’s
These questions are part of the communication plan, but only for internal use and for the purpose of consistent answers on the agency’s part.
Q. How does the CERCLA process differ from the NEPA process?
A. The processes are similar. The CERCLA process is designed to address potentially hazardous sites in a time-effective manner. Planning, public input, and cleanup implementation are often on a compressed schedule. Administrative appeal and opportunity for litigation are limited. The CERCLA process is the functional equivalent of the NEPA process.
Q. What happens to my comments? How much impact do they have? Is the decision to do the clean-up a final one?
A. Comments have the potential of changing the preferred cleanup alternative or part thereof. However, there is no administrative appeal process for CERCLA decisions, and opportunity for litigation must wait until the cleanup action has been completed.
Appendix D
Tribal Consultation
Mel Sheldon,Jr. 2
Kromona Mine ~ i -iSkSto human and ecological health are posed by high metalsicul concentrations, p ly.arsenic, lead ~d copper in waste r?ck and.some local soils, as ~ell as elevatedmetals i t1th adit water. The MIddle Fork Sultan River drains to Spada ReservoIr,kin which suppliesdri ater and power to Snohomish County
The ForestService epared Engineering Evaluation and Cost Analyses (EE/CAs) for eacht, of the Rainy, Sunse Kromona Sites to evaluate alternatives for completing non-time-critical~ted removal actionsreI metal contamination therein. The EE/CA reports document risks to~e humanhealth and t e .onment, evaluate alternatives, and identify a preferred alternative to~te minimize or elimin risks associated with the release of a hazardous substanceinto the environmentor im act public health and welfare. The EE/CAs are available for a 30-daygh public review throu riII0,2009. Previously,the Mt. ~i-snoqUa1mieNational Forest completed Abbreviated Preliminary Assessments(AP A) for t e Rainy and SunsetMine and Mill Sites in September2003, and for, Kromona in Augus 20 .The purpose of the assessmentswas to determine whether or not thereleas was potential for re of contaminants to the environment and/or to humans. The Forest Service th~~OmPletedSite Inspections (SI) at the eachof the Sites. The purposeof the SIs was to dete tnin the potential threatto humanhealth and/or the environmentfrom issues
identified during th ~ .!
The Forest Service s: ompleted Streamlined Human Health and Ecological Risk AssessmentsIf (SRA) at the each th Sites. The purpose of the SRAs was to determine the risk to human and ecological health 0 ih dous substancespresent at the Sites.
Copiesof the abov~~Ff f A, AP A, SI, and SRA reports are posted to Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie~Sltq: National Forestwe~
ht ://www.fs.fed.us/r6 cts/cercla-hazmat- ro'ects.shtml
Rod Lentz is availa answer technical questions you or your staff may have (Rod Lentz, On-iTe SceneCoordinator .cal Contact], Okanogan/WenatcheeNational Forests, 1240 South SecondAve., Okant>g W A 98840, phone (509) 826-3274, e-mail: [email protected]). Curtiste Spaldingcan provi a itiona1 information (Curtis Spalding, Environmental Coordinator; [Alternate Contact] M. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, 2930 Wetmore Ave. Suite 3A, EverettW A 98201,!ph e (425) 783-6033, e-mail: [email protected]). If you wish to SUb Litmtten comments on the EE/CAs for this project, please send them to me~. at the above addres~ I preciate your continued interest in the managementof the Mt. Baker-~l Snoqualmie Nation F est. I
Sincerely,
/s/ y: Robert Iwa Y. ROBERT IW~ ForestSupervisor
Enclosures
~~tb~!eB11~le! cc: Richard Young -C III 1 ResourcesTechnician, Enviromnental Departmentro Kurt Nelson -Envi ental Departmentldli Mike Sevigny -W. Biologist, Environmental Departmentcto Hank Gobin -Dir Cultural/Environmental Departmentni Libby Nelson -A ative Lead MBS/Tulalip MOA USDA United States Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie 2930Wetmore Avenue, Suite 3A For+~t Department of setfice National Forest Everett, W A 98201 Agriculture Supervisor's Office (425) 783-6000
File Code: 7470 Date: March 12,2009 JosephMullen, Ch SnoqualmieTribe P.O. Box 969 Snoqualrnie,W A 9
Dear Mr. Mullen:
The ForestService ses to clean up three former mining sites that pose human and ecologicalrisks: th ~R .y, Sunset, and Kromona mine and mill sites (referred to as "the sites").he The siteslie in no King County and southeast Snohomish County, Washington. Site~m cleanupwould be ed by the Forest Service under the Comprehensive Environmental Response,Compe $ati , and Liability Act (CERCLA) of 1980; and Federal Executive Order 12580.
Weare providing ou tice of a 30-day comment opportunity on the Engineering Evaluation and Cost Analyses (E As) for the Rainy, Sunset and Kromona Sites. I recognize that our local~re tribes may have int d knowledge of cultural uses or properties, concerns about possible effects on historic trop ies of religious or cultural significance, or information on Treaty reserved rights in t ~e inity of these three sites. If you would like to meet with me on ae government-to- go nt basis to discuss information I should be aware of in making an, informed decision ing this proposal, please call my office at (425) 783-6010 to arrange a convenient time. Specifically, the lo~ of the Rainy, Sunsetand KromonaMine and Mill Sitesare:
Rainy Site. Kil ~punty, Washington,on QuartzCr. about12 mi. northeastof North Bend;~ect~~n T24N, RIOE, ~ 9, SE/4. Middle Fork SnoqualmieRiver watershed. Sunset Site. S~~oh~~ishCounty, Washington, on Trout Creekabout 5 miles northeastofllOf1 Index; T27N, ~ SectionI, SW/4NE/4. North Fork SkykomishRiver watershed. Kromona Site~S~homish County, Washington, on Middle For,kof the South Fork Sultan River, about 1(>m~~s northeast of Sultan; T28N, R9E, Section 13, N/2. Skykomish River watershed. The need for the cl~~an- is based on the chemical hazards posed by the sites. I
Rainy Mine Site Ris to human and ecological health are posed by high metals ticu ly arsenic, lead and copper in waste rock, unprocessedore, mill tailings, concentrations,seep and steam sedp ~ 1m , and some local soils, as well as elevated metals in the adit and seep
water. Quartz Cree k d stream provides habitat for cutthroat, a Federal species of concern.
Ri Sunset Mine Sit m to human and ecological health are posed by high metals ~icu ly arsenic and copper in waste rock and some local soils, as well ashe concentrations, elevated metals p in ~ it water. Trout Creek provides habitat for several Rare, Threatened or ~in ding Coho salmon and cutthroat trout. Endangered specie
@t] Caring for the Land and Serving People Printed on Recyded Paper 0
.:ati4*sngpro806~1Iair JosephMullen 2
Kromona Mine ~i !e 'SkSto humanand ecologicalhealth are posed by high metals concentrations,p icu IY,arsenic,lead ~d copperin waster~ck and,somelocal soils, as ,:"ell as elevatedmetals adlt water. The MIddle Fork SultanRiver dramsto SpadaReservoIr, which suppliesdri 'n waterand powerto SnohomishCounty
The Forest Service Jtas repared Engineering Evaluation and Cost Analyses (EE/CAs) for each of the Rainy, Suns, Kromona sites to evaluate alternatives for completing non-time-critical removal actions reI te 0 metal contamination therein. The EE/CA reports document risks to human health and t e .onment, evaluate alternatives, and identify a preferred alternative to minimize or elimin te e risks associated with the release of a hazardous substanceinto the environment or im act n public health and welfare. The EE/CAs are available for a 30-day public review thro gh rillO, 2009.
Previously, the M -Snoqualmie National Forest completed Abbreviated Preliminary Assessments(AP e Rainy and SunsetMine and Mill Sites in September2003, and for Kromona in Au .The purpose of the assessmentswas to determine whether or not there was potential for of contaminants to the environment and/or to humans.
The Forestservice r *h ompleted Site Inspections (SI) at the each of the Sites. The purpose of the SIs was to dete i the potential threat to human health and/or the environment from issues identified during th . The Forest serviCet~t~mPleted Streamlined Human Health and Eco!ogicall!isk Assessments (SRA) at the each rth SItes. The purpose of the SRAs was to determIne the nsk to human and ecological health 0 ! h dous substancespresent at the Sites. Copiesof the abovqEW FA, APA, SI, and SRA reportsare posted to Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forestwe.sit~: ht ://www.fs.fed. ects/cercla-hazmat-ro"ects.shtml
Rod Lentz is availa Ie answer technical questions you or your staff may have (Rod Lentz, On- Scene Coordinator Te .cal Contact], Okanogan/WenatcheeNational Forests, 1240 South Second Ave., Okan g WA 98840, phone (509) 826-3274, e-mail: [email protected]). Curtis Spalding can provi e itional information (Curtis Spalding, Environmental Coordinator [Alternate Contact] M. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, 2930 Wetmore Ave. Suite 3A, Everett W A 98201,!ph e (425) 783-6033, e-mail: [email protected]).
If you wish to sub it .tten comments on the EE/CAs for this project, please send them to me at the above addres .I preciate your continued interest in the managementof the Mt. Baker- Snoqualmie Nation I Fest.
Sincerely,
/s/Y.ROBERTIW r: Robert Iwa ~to0 tf
Forest Supervisor I
Enclosures cc: Mary Anne HiPzn!~ -Vice Chair. Ray Mullen -Cultural ResourcesDirector. Ian Kanair - Environmental& ,at#l ResourcesDirector USDA United States Fo st Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie 2930Wetmore Avenue, Suite 3A ?'"---= Department of Se 'ce National Forest Everett, WA 98201 A riculture So ervisor's Office 425 783-6000
File Code: 7470 Date: March 12, 2009 CecileDuwamish Maxwell-H Tribe tS1tChaif 4717 W. Marginal a .W. Seattle, W A 9810615
Dear Ms. MaxwellJIaq~en:
The Forest Service ro ses to clean up three former mining sites that pose human and ecological risks: th .y, Sunset, and Kromona mine and mill sites (referred to as "the sites"). The sites lie in no King County and southeast Snohomish County, Washington. Site cleanup would be ed by the Forest Service under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compen ati , and Liability Act (CERCLA) of 1980; and Federal Executive Order 12580. Weare providing u rice of a 30-daycomment opportunity on the EngineeringEvaluation and CostAnalyses EE As) for the Rainy, Sunsetand Kromona Sites.I recognizethat our local tribes may have int es d knowledgeof cultural usesor properties,concerns about possible effects on historic op ies of religious or cultural significance,or information on Treaty reservedrights in e v inity of thesethree sites. If you would like to meet with me on a govemment-to-gov nt basisto discussinformation I shouldbe awareof in making an informed decision ~g ing this proposal,please call my office at (425) 783-6010to arrangea convenienttime. Specifically,the lo4ati~qsof the Rainy, Sunsetand KromonaMine and Mill Sitesare:
Rainy Site. Ki~g q~unty, Washington, on Quartz Cr. about 12 mi. northeast of North Bend; T24N, R10E, ~ect~n 9, SE/4. Middle Fork Snoqualmie River watershed.
Sunset Site. S~ohq~ish County, Washington, on Trout Creek about 5 miles northeast of Index; T27N, ~1°f-~ Section 1, SW/4NE/4. North Fork Skykomish River watershed. Kromona Site1St OmiShCounty, Washington, on Middle Fork of the South Fork Sultan River, about I mi S northeast of Sultan; T28N, R9E, Section 13, N/2. Skykomish River watershed. I The need for the cl,an-pp is basedon the chemicalhazards posed by the sites.
Rainy Mine Site~ .S lli O human and ecological health are posed by high metals concentrations, p .cu lyarsenic, lead and copper in waste rock, unprocessed ore, mill tailings, seep and steam sed e , and some local soils, as well as elevated metals in the adit and seep water. Quartz Cree do stream provides habitat for cutthroat, a Federal species of concern.
SunsetMine Site~ Rii Sto human and ecological health are posed by high metals concentrations, p 'cu lyarsenic and copper in waste rock and some local soils, as well as elevated metals in e .t water. Trout Creek provides habitat for several Rare, Threatened or Endangered specie in I ding Coho salmon and cutthroat trout.
~ Caring for the Land and Serving People Printed on Recyded Paper 0 . Cecile Maxwell-H~sehl 2
Kromona Mine ~ .e! "SkS to human and ecological health are posed by high metals concentrations, p icu ly arsenic, lead and copper in waste rock and some local soils, as well as elevated metals" adit water. The Middle Fork Sultan River drains to Spada Reservoir, which supplies dri n ater and power to Snohomish County
The Forest Service as repared Engineering Evaluation and Cost Analyses (EE/CAs) for each of the Rainy, Suns, Kromona sites to evaluate alternatives for completing non-time-critical removal actions reI ted 0 metal contamination therein. The EE/CA reports document risks to human health and e ronment, evaluate alternatives, and identify a preferred alternative to minimize or elimin te e risks associatedwith the release of a hazardous substanceinto the environment or im act public health and welfare. The EE/CAs are available for a 30-day public review thro gh rilIO, 2009.
Previously, the Mt ~ B ~~ -snoqualmie National Forest completed Abbreviated Preliminary Assessments (AP A ! for e Rainy and Sunset Mine and Mill Sites in September 2003, and for Kromona in Augus 20 .The purpose of the assessmentswas to determine whether or not there was potential for reeas of contaminants to the environment and/or to humans.
The Forestservice r h* ompleted Site Inspections (SI) at the each of the Sites. The purpose of the SIs was to dete i the potential threat to human health and/or the environment from issues identified during th . The. Forest service~~~omPleted Streamlined Human Health and Ecological Risk Assessments (SRA) at the each Ifth Sites. The purpose of the SRAs was to determine the risk to human and ecological health 0 h dous substancespresent at the Sites. Copies of the abovq E"BIfA, APA, SI, and SRA reports are posted to Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest we~sit~: h ://www. fs. fed, ects/cercla-hazmat- ro'ects,shtml
Rod Lentz is availa Ie answer technical questions you or your staff may have (Rod Lentz, On- Scene Coordinator Te .cal Contact], Okanogan/WenatcheeNational Forests, 1240 South Second Ave., Okan g W A 98840, phone (509) 826-3274, e-mail: [email protected]). Curtis Spalding can provi e itional information (Curtis Spalding, Environmental Coordinator [Alternate Contact] M. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, 2930 Wetmore Ave. Suite 3A, Everett W A 98201, ph e (425) 783-6033, e-mail: [email protected]). If you wish to SUb~it $tten comments on the EE/CAs for this project, please send them to me at the abo,:,ead~es. I preciate your continued interest in the managementof the Mt. Baker- Snoqualmle Nation I Fest.
Sincerely,
IslY.ROBERTIW Y: Robert Iwa ~,to0 tf
Forest Supervisor I
Enclosure
USDA United States Fo st Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie 2930Wetmore Avenue, Suite 3A ?:'"--= Department of Se .ce National Forest Everett, WA 98201 A riculture Su ervisor's Office 425 783-6000
File Code: 7470 Date: March 12, 2009 Lavina Washines, ~ h Yakama Tribal Co cim P.O. Box 151, FortRo Toppenish, W A 98 48 528
Dear Ms. Washine~:
The Forest Service ro ses to clean up three fonner mining sites that pose human and ecological risks: th .y, Sunset, and Kromona mine and mill sites (referred to as "the sites"). The sites lie in no e King County and southeast Snohomish County, Washington. Site cleanup would be m ed by the Forest Service under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compen ati , and Liability Act (CERCLA) of 1980; and Federal Executive Order 12580. The attach s show the three Sites.
Weare providing tice of a 30-day comment opportunity on the Engineering Evaluation and Cost Analyse As) for the Rainy, Sunset and Kromona Sites. I recognize that our local tribes may have i d knowledge of cultural uses or properties, concerns about possible effects on historic ies of religious or cultural significance, or information on Treaty reserved rights in inity of these three sites. If you would like to meet with me on a govemment-to-g nt basis to discuss information I should be aware of in making an informed decisio ing this proposal, please call my office at (425) 783-6010 to arrange a convenient time. Specifically, the loqatiqqsof the Rainy, Sunsetand KromonaMine and Mill Sitesare: Rainy Site. Kipg ~~unty, Washington,on QuartzCr. about12 mi. northeastof North Bend: T24N, RI0E, ~ect~qn9, SE/4. Middle Fork SnoqualmieRiver watershed. SunsetSite. S*oh~~ish County,Washington, on Trout Creekabout 5 miles northeastof Index; T27N, ~1°f-~ Section1, SW/4NE/4. North Fork SkykomishRiver watershed.
Kromona Sit1 Si omiSh County, Washington, on Middle Fork of the South Fork Sultan River, about 1 mi S northeast of Sultan; T28N, R9E, Section 13, N/2. Skykomish River
watershed. I I The need for the cl+an-ppis basedon the chemicalhazards posed by the sites.
Rainy Mine Site~ 's~ o humanand ecologicalhealth are posed by high metals concentrations,p icu ly arsenic,lead and copperin wasterock, unprocessedore, mill tailings, seepand steamsed and somelocal soils, as well as elevatedmetals in the adit and seep water. QuartzCree d treamprovides habitat for cutthroat,a Federalspecies of concern. Sunset Mine Site~' Ri j to human and ecological health are posed by high metals concentrations, p .cu ly arsenic and copper in waste rock and some local soils, as well as elevated metals in e .t water. Trout Creek provides habitat for several Rare, Threatened or Endangered specie in I ding Coho salmon and cutthroat trout. Kromona Mine Si~e-~sks to humanand ecologicalhealth are posed by high metals
tg Caring for the Land and Serving People Printed on Recyded Paper 0 . Lavina Washines. 2 concentrations, PaI;,.fiC ly arsenic, lead and copper in waste rock and some local soils, as well as elevated metals m t adit water. The Middle Fork Sultan River drains to Spada Reservoir, which supplies dri .water and power to Snohomish County
The Forest Service tl repared Engineering Evaluation and Cost Analyses (EE/CAs) for each(t, of the Rainy, Sunsc Kromona sites to evaluate alternatives for completing non-time-critical~t removal actions re 0 metal contamination therein. The EE/CA reports document risks tohe human healthand vironment, evaluate alternatives, and identify a preferred alternative to~te minimize or elimill e risks associated with the release of a hazardous substanceinto the environment or im]~act n public health and welfare. The EE/CAs are available for a 30-day~gh public review thrOl prill 0, 2009. I Previously, the Mt. Bmr-SnOQUalmieNational Forest completed Abbreviated Preliminary Assessments (APA fo he Rainy and SunsetMine and Mill Sites in September2003, and for Kromona in Augus 2 2. The purpose of the assessmentswas to determine whether or not therelIe was potential for r( of contaminants to the environment and/or to humans.
The F orest serviCi ith~.completed .Site Inspections (SI) at the each of the S~tes. The purpo.se of the SIs was to dete I the potential threat to human health and/or the envIronment from Issues identified during e .
The Forest Service:th completed Streamlined Human Health and Ecological Risk Assessments (SRA) at the eachf Sites. The purpose of the SRAs was to determine the risk to human and ecological health 0 h dous substancespresent at the Sites.
Copies of the abo CA, AP A, SI, and SRA reports are posted to Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest w
ht ://www.fs.fed ects/cercla-hazmat- ro.ects.shtml
Rod Lentz is avail~ answer technical questions you or your staff may have (Rod Lentz, On-IrTe Scene Coordinator 'cal Contact], Okanogan/WenatcheeNational Forests, 1240 South Second Ave., Okar 109, W A 98840, phone (509) 826-3274, e-mail: [email protected]). Curtis[Ie Spalding can provi, itional information (Curtis Spalding, Environmental Coordinator [Alternate Contact] M Baker-Snoqualrnie National Forest, 2930 Wetmore Ave. Suite 3A, Everett W A 9820 I ph e (425) 783-6033, e-mail: [email protected]). If you wish to SUbt.t $tten commentson the EE/CAs for this project,please send them to me at the abo~ead~e $. I ppreciateyour continuedinterest in the managementof the Mt. Baker- SnoqualmleNatio al rest.
Sincerely,
Y./s/ ROBERTr: RobertIwa IW~ to0~
Forest Supervisor I :
Enclosures
(ble cc: Leo Aleck -Chai ~ I~ultural Committee Johnson Meninick Pr~fam Manager-Cultural ResourceProgram V. Kate Valdez -I
lan,
Appendix E
News Releases/Updates
Please call me with questions or to set up interviews. For more information about the project contact Rod Lentz, project coordinator, 509-826-3274, [email protected].
Renee Bodine Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie Public Affairs Office: 425-783-6015 Cell: 425-293-1780
4/2/10
Forest Service Plans Cleanup of Rainy Mine and Mill Site ______The Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest will start clean up this summer of hazardous waste at Rainy Mine and Mill site, located about 12 miles northeast of North Bend, WA. A June, 2008, Engineering Evaluation and Cost Analysis (EECA) report by Forest Service contractor MSE determined that significant potential risk to both humans and the environment exists from exposure to high concentrations of hazardous substances, particularly arsenic, found in the mine waste, soil, sediment, and water. Arsenic and other hazardous metals occur naturally in the ores and rock mined at the site. The Rainy Mine cleanup will be done under the provisions of the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980 (CERCLA). This project is a part of a regional effort to address impacts caused by abandoned and inactive mine sites on national forest lands. Washington State identified 250 potentially hazardous sites out of 2,200 abandoned sites within National Forest boundaries. Cleanup efforts have focused on the worst sites and those in key fisheries watersheds. Under CERCLA, the Forest Service seeks out past mine operators to pay for cleanup. The Rainy Mine and Mill were most active during the 1950s, producing 2,000 tons of copper and silver ore, with the 50-ton-per-day mill added in 1951. The proposed cleanup project consists of three phases. The first phase would upgrade the existing access road to accommodate equipment and facilitate long-term inspection and maintenance. The next phase would excavate approximately 2,200 cubic yards of contaminated waste rock, soil and sediment, and move and consolidate it in a covered repository. The next phase caps the repository cover and surrounding areas with soil and prevents further contamination by building diversionary channels, promoting runoff and landscaping. The public can review the EECA report at the Snoqualmie Ranger District office in North Bend, WA. The EECA report and other documents in the Administrative Record File are also available online at: http://www.fs.fed.us/r6/mbs/projects/cercla-hazmat-cleanup-projects/index.shtml. Interested individuals and entities may provide comments on the Rainy Mine and Mill Site EECA report and the proposed cleanup alternative until May 10, 2010 (a 30-day period). Written comments can be mailed to: Y. Robert Iwamoto, Forest Supervisor, Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie
National Forest, 2930 Wetmore Ave. Suite 3A, Everett, Washington 98201. E-mail comments can be sent to: Miki Fujikawa, Realty Specialist, at [email protected]. For additional information about the Rainy Mine and Mill Site, contact Rod Lentz, project coordinator, at the Okanogan Valley Office, Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, 1240 South Second Avenue, Okanogan, Washington 98840, phone 509-826-3274, e-mail [email protected].
Appendix F
Comments/Responses/Meeting Notes
Appendix G
Legal Notices