West Virginia Regulatory Program, 50244-50257 [05-17002]

Agencies

• DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR
• Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement
• Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement Office

[Federal Register Volume 70, Number 165 (Friday, August 26, 2005)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 50244-50257]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 05-17002]


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DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR

Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement

30 CFR Part 948

[WV-106-FOR]


West Virginia Regulatory Program

AGENCY: Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement (OSM), 
Interior.

ACTION: Proposed rule; public comment period and opportunity for public 
hearing on proposed amendment.

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SUMMARY: We are announcing receipt of a proposed amendment to the West 
Virginia regulatory program (the West Virginia program) under the 
Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act of 1977 (SMCRA or the Act). 
West Virginia proposes revisions to the Code of West Virginia (W. Va. 
Code) and the Code of State Regulations (CSR) as authorized by several 
bills passed during the State's 2005 Legislative Session. West Virginia 
is also proposing an amendment that affects the State's regulations 
concerning erosion protection zones (EPZ) associated with durable rock 
fills. The State is revising its program to be consistent with certain 
corresponding Federal requirements, and to include other amendments at 
its own initiative. The amendments include, among other things, changes 
to the State's surface mining and blasting regulations as authorized by 
Committee Substitute for House Bill 2723; various statutory changes to 
the State's approved program as a result of the passage of Committee 
Substitute for House Bill 3033 and House Bills 2333 and 3236; the 
submission of a draft policy regarding the State's EPZ requirement and 
requesting that the Office of Surface Mining (OSM) reconsider its 
previous decision concerning EPZ; State water rights and replacement 
policy identifying the timing of water supply replacement; the revised 
Permittee's Request For Release form; and the submission of a 
Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between the West Virginia Department of 
Environmental Protection (WVDEP), Division of Mining and Reclamation, 
and the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources, Wildlife Resources 
Section that is intended to partially resolve a required program 
amendment relating to planting arrangements for Homestead post-mining 
land use.

DATES: We will accept written comments on this amendment until 4 p.m. 
(local time), on September 26, 2005. If requested, we will hold a 
public hearing on the amendment on September 20, 2005. We will accept 
requests to speak at a hearing until 4 p.m. (local time), on September 
12, 2005.

ADDRESSES: You may submit comments, identified by WV-106-FOR, by any of 
the following methods:
     E-mail: chfo@osmre.gov. Include WV-106-FOR in the subject 
line of the message;
     Mail/Hand Delivery: Mr. Roger W. Calhoun, Director, 
Charleston Field Office, Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and 
Enforcement, 1027 Virginia Street, East, Charleston, West Virginia 
25301; or
     Federal eRulemaking Portal: https://www.regulations.gov. 
Follow the instructions for submitting comments.
    Instructions: All submissions received must include the agency 
docket number for this rulemaking. For detailed instructions on 
submitting comments and additional information on the rulemaking 
process, see the ``Public Comment Procedures'' heading in the 
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION section of this document. You may also 
request to speak at a public hearing by any of the methods listed above 
or by contacting the individual listed under FOR FURTHER INFORMATION 
CONTACT.
    Docket: You may review copies of the West Virginia program, this 
amendment, a listing of any scheduled public hearings, and all written 
comments received in response to this document at the addresses listed 
below during normal business hours, Monday through Friday, excluding 
holidays. You may also receive one free copy of this amendment by 
contacting OSM's Charleston Field Office listed below.
    Mr. Roger W. Calhoun, Director, Charleston Field Office, Office of 
Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement, 1027 Virginia Street, East, 
Charleston, West Virginia 25301, Telephone: (304) 347-7158. E-mail: 
chfo@osmre.gov.
    West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection, 601 57th 
Street, SE, Charleston, West Virginia 25304, Telephone: (304) 926-0490.
    In addition, you may review a copy of the amendment during regular 
business hours at the following locations:
    Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement, Morgantown 
Area Office, 75 High Street, Room 229, P.O. Box 886, Morgantown, West 
Virginia 26507, Telephone: (304) 291-4004. (By Appointment Only)
    Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement, Beckley Area 
Office, 323 Harper Park Drive, Suite 3, Beckley, West Virginia 25801, 
Telephone: (304) 255-5265.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Mr. Roger W. Calhoun, Director, 
Charleston Field Office, Telephone: (304) 347-7158. Internet: 
chfo@osmre.gov.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

I. Background on the West Virginia Program
II. Description of the Proposed Amendment
III. Public Comment Procedures
IV. Procedural Determinations

I. Background on the West Virginia Program

    Section 503(a) of the Act permits a State to assume primacy for the 
regulation of surface coal mining and reclamation operations on non-
Federal and non-Indian lands within its borders by demonstrating that 
its program includes, among other things, ``* * * a

[[Page 50245]]

State law which provides for the regulation of surface coal mining and 
reclamation operations in accordance with the requirements of the Act * 
* *; and rules and regulations consistent with regulations issued by 
the Secretary pursuant to the Act.'' See 30 U.S.C. 1253(a)(1) and (7). 
On the basis of these criteria, the Secretary of the Interior 
conditionally approved the West Virginia program on January 21, 1981. 
You can find background information on the West Virginia program, 
including the Secretary's findings, the disposition of comments, and 
conditions of approval of the West Virginia program in the January 21, 
1981, Federal Register (46 FR 5915). You can also find later actions 
concerning West Virginia's program and program amendments at 30 CFR 
948.10, 948.12, 948.13, 948.15, and 948.16.

II. Description of the Proposed Amendment

    By letters dated June 13, 2005 (Administrative Record Numbers WV-
1419, WV-1420, and WV-1421), the WVDEP submitted amendments to its 
program under SMCRA (30 U.S.C. 1201 et seq.). The amendments consist of 
several bills passed during West Virginia's 2005 Legislative Session 
and a draft policy concerning EPZ associated with durable rock fills.
    House Bill (HB) 2333 amends the W. Va. Code by adding new Article 
27 entitled the Environmental Good Samaritan Act (Sections 22-27-1 
through 22-27-12). HB 2333 was adopted by the Legislature on March 24, 
2005, and signed into law by the Governor on April 6, 2005, with an 
effective date of June 22, 2005. In its letter, the WVDEP stated that 
HB 2333 establishes a program to encourage voluntary reclamation of 
lands adversely affected by mining activities by limiting the liability 
that could arise as a result of the voluntary reclamation of abandoned 
lands or reduction abatement of water pollution.
    Committee Substitute for HB 2723 authorizes (at paragraph g) 
amendments to the West Virginia Surface Mining Reclamation Rules at CSR 
38-2 and (at paragraph i) amendments to the Surface Mining Blasting 
Rule at CSR 199-1. This bill was passed by the Legislature on April 8, 
2005, and approved by the Governor on May 3, 2005, with an effective 
date from the date of passage. We note that some of the amendments to 
CSR 38-2 and CSR 199-1 are intended to address required program 
amendments that are codified in the Federal regulations at 30 CFR 
948.16(a), (sss), (wwww), (fffff), (iiiii), (jjjjj), (kkkkk), (lllll), 
(ooooo), (ppppp), and (rrrrr).
    Committee Substitute for HB 3033 amends the West Virginia Surface 
Coal Mining and Reclamation Act (WVSCMRA) at W. Va. Code Section 22-3-
11 concerning the State's special reclamation tax. This bill was passed 
by the Legislature on April 1, 2005, and signed by the Governor on 
April 18, 2005, with an effective date of April 1, 2005. In its letter, 
the WVDEP stated that HB 3033 extends the temporary special reclamation 
tax that funds the State's alternative bonding system for an additional 
18 months (at W. Va. Code 22-3-11(h)(1)) and provides additional duties 
for the WVDEP Secretary in managing the State's alternative bonding 
system (at W. Va. Code 22-3-11(h)(2), (3), and (4)). We note that OSM 
previously approved West Virginia's temporary special reclamation tax 
on December 28, 2001 (66 FR 67446), with additional modification on May 
29, 2002 (67 FR 37610, 37613-37614). The State's current extension of 
that temporary tax by an additional 18 months does not need OSM's 
specific approval because the State has only lengthened the time period 
of the temporary tax. Except as discussed below, the State has not 
modified any duties or functions under the approved West Virginia 
program, and the change is in keeping with the intent of our original 
approvals. Therefore, we are not seeking public comment on the State's 
extension of the temporary tax from thirty nine to fifty seven months 
at W. Va. Code 22-3-11(h)(1). The extension took effect from the date 
of passage of Committee Substitute for HB 3033, on April 1, 2005. In 
addition, we are not seeking public comment on the State's new language 
at W. Va. Code 22-3-(h)(3) and (h)(4). These new provisions only direct 
the Secretary of the WVDEP to conduct various studies and authorize the 
Secretary of the WVDEP to propose legislative rules concerning its 
bonding program as appropriate. These provisions do not modify any 
duties or functions under the approved West Virginia program and do 
not, therefore, require OSM's approval. However, we are seeking public 
comment on the State's provisions at W. Va. Code 22-3-11(h)(2)(A) and 
(B). Under these new provisions, the WVDEP Secretary will be required 
to pursue cost effective alternative water treatment strategies; and 
conduct formal actuarial studies every two years and conduct informal 
reviews annually on the Special Reclamation Fund.
    HB 3236 amends the WVSCMRA by adding new W. Va. Code Section 22-3-
11a concerning the special reclamation tax, and adding new Section 22-
3-32a concerning the special tax on coal. HB 3236 was passed by the 
Legislature on April 9, 2005, and approved by the Governor on May 2, 
2005, with an effective date of April 9, 2005. HB 3236 provides that 
the special reclamation tax and the special tax, which is used to 
administer the State's approved regulatory program, are applicable to 
thin seam coal, and the special reclamation tax is subject to the WV 
Tax Crimes and Penalties Act and the WV Tax Procedure and 
Administration Act.
    In addition, WVDEP, submitted Committee Substitute for HB 3033 
which contains strikethroughs and underscoring showing the actual 
language that has been added and deleted from the WVSCMRA, as a result 
of the passage of Enrolled Committee Substitute for HB 3033 discussed 
above (Administrative Record Number WV-1422).
    WVDEP submitted a MOA dated September 2003, between the WVDEP, 
Division of Mining and Reclamation, and the West Virginia Division of 
Natural Resources, Wildlife Resources Section (Administrative Record 
Number WV-1405). This MOA outlines responsibilities of both agencies in 
reviewing surface and underground coal mining permit applications; 
evaluating lands unsuitable for mining petitions; developing wildlife 
planting plans as part of reclamation plans of permit applications; and 
restoring, protecting and enhancing fish and wildlife on mined lands 
within the State. The MOA was developed in response to a 30 CFR Part 
732 (Part 732) notification issued by OSM on March 6, 1990, 
(Administrative Record Number WV-834) in which OSM stated that the 
State program did not require that minimum stocking and planting 
arrangements be specified by the regulatory authority on the basis of 
local and regional conditions and after consultation with and approval 
by State agencies responsible for the administration of forestry and 
wildlife programs as required by 30 CFR 816/817.116(b)(3)(i). The West 
Virginia Division of Forestry has concurred with the State's tree 
stocking and groundcover standards at CSR 38-2-9.8.g. However, OSM 
maintains that the Wildlife Resources Section still has to concur with 
the wildlife planting arrangement standards. The WVDEP submitted the 
MOA in response to that part of the outstanding Part 732 notification 
and, as discussed below, to satisfy part of an outstanding required 
amendment at 30 CFR 948.16(ooooo).
    The Federal regulations at 30 CFR 948.16(ooooo) provide that the 
WVDEP

[[Page 50246]]

must consult with and obtain the approval of the West Virginia Division 
of Forestry and the Wildlife Resources Section of the West Virginia 
Division of Natural Resources on the new stocking standards and 
planting arrangements for Homesteading at CSR 38-2-7.5.o.2. The 
submission of the MOA is to resolve the part of the required amendment 
relating to planting arrangements. The State also revised its rules 
earlier at CSR 38-2-9.3.g to provide that a professional wildlife 
biologist employed by the Division of Natural Resources must develop 
the planting plan. OSM approved that revision in the Federal Register 
on February 8, 2005 (70 FR 6582). WVDEP advised OSM that it has 
consulted with the Division of Forestry concerning the stocking 
standards for Homesteading. According to WVDEP, the Division of 
Forestry will be submitting a letter explaining its position with 
regard to those stocking standards (Administrative Record Number WV-
1423). Upon receipt of the letter, it will be included in the 
Administrative Record and made available for public review.
    WVDEP also submitted the Permittee's Request for Release form dated 
March 2005 (Administrative Record Number WV-1424). This form is being 
submitted in response to an OSM Part 732 notification dated July 22, 
1997 (Administrative Record Number WV-1071). In that notification, OSM 
advised the State that the Federal regulations at 30 CFR 800.40(a)(3) 
were amended to require that each application for bond release include 
a written, notarized statement by the permittee affirming that all 
applicable reclamation requirements specified in the permit have been 
completed. OSM notified WVDEP that the State regulations at CSR 38-2-
12.2 do not contain such a requirement. In response, the State revised 
its bond release form by adding new item Number 11, which requires that 
all copies of the Permittee's Request For Release form include the 
following: ``11. A notarized statement by the permittee that all 
applicable reclamation requirements specified in the permit have been 
completed.''
    The full text of the program amendment is available for you to read 
at the locations listed above under ADDRESSES.
    Specifically, West Virginia proposes the following amendments.

1. House Bill 2333

    HB 2333 amends the W. Va. Code by adding a new article Sections 22-
27-1 through 12 to provide as follows:

Article 27. Environmental Good Samaritan Act

    22-27-1. Declaration of policy and purpose.
    This article is intended to encourage the improvement of land 
and water adversely affected by mining, to aid in the protection of 
wildlife, to decrease soil erosion, to aid in the prevention and 
abatement of the pollution of rivers and streams, to protect and 
improve the environmental values of the citizens of this state and 
to eliminate or abate hazards to health and safety. It is the intent 
of the Legislature to encourage voluntary reclamation of lands 
adversely affected by mining. The purpose of this article is to 
improve water quality and to control and eliminate water pollution 
resulting from mining extraction or exploration by limiting the 
liability which could arise as a result of the voluntary reclamation 
of abandoned lands or the reduction and abatement of water 
pollution. This article is not intended to limit the liability of a 
person who by law is or may become responsible to reclaim the land 
or address the water pollution or anyone who by contract, order or 
otherwise is required to or agrees to perform the reclamation or 
abate the water pollution.
    22-27-2. Legislative findings.
    The Legislature finds and declares as follows:
    (1) The state's long history of mining has left some lands and 
waters unreclaimed and polluted.
    (2) These abandoned lands and polluted waters are unproductive, 
diminish the tax base and are serious impediments to the economic 
welfare and growth of this state.
    (3) The unreclaimed lands and polluted waters present a danger 
to the health, safety and welfare of the people and the environment.
    (4) The state of West Virginia does not possess sufficient 
resources to reclaim all the abandoned lands and to abate the water 
pollution.
    (5) Numerous landowners, citizens, watershed associations, 
environmental organizations and governmental entities who do not 
have a legal responsibility to reclaim the abandoned lands or to 
abate the water pollution are interested in addressing these 
problems but are reluctant to engage in such reclamation and 
abatement activities because of potential liabilities associated 
with the reclamation and abatement activities.
    (6) It is in the best interest of the health, safety and welfare 
of the people of this state and the environment to encourage 
reclamation of the abandoned lands and abatement of water pollution.
    (7) That this act will encourage and promote the reclamation of 
these properties.
    22-27-3. Definitions.
    As used in this article unless used in a context that clearly 
requires a different meaning, the term:
    (a) ``Abandoned lands'' means land adversely affected by mineral 
extraction and left or abandoned in an unreclaimed or inadequately 
reclaimed condition.
    (b) ``Consideration'' means something of value promised, given 
or performed in exchange for something which has the effect of 
making a legally enforceable contract. For the purpose of this 
article, the term does not include a promise to a landowner to 
repair damage caused by a reclamation project or water pollution 
abatement project when the promise is made in exchange for access to 
the land.
    (c) ``Department'' means the West Virginia department of 
environmental protection.
    (d) ``Eligible land'' means land adversely affected by mineral 
extraction and left or abandoned in an unreclaimed or inadequately 
reclaimed condition or causing water pollution and for which no 
person has a continuing reclamation or water pollution abatement 
obligation.
    (e) ``Eligible landowner'' means a landowner that provides 
access to or use of the project work area at no cost for a 
reclamation or water pollution abatement project who is not or will 
not become responsible under state or federal law to reclaim the 
land or address the water pollution existing or emanating from the 
land.
    (f) ``Eligible project sponsor'' means a person that provides 
equipment, materials or services at no cost or at cost for a 
reclamation or water pollution abatement project who is not or will 
not become responsible under state or federal law to reclaim the 
land or address the water pollution existing or emanating from the 
land.
    (g) ``Landowner'' means a person who holds either legal or 
equitable interest in real property.
    (h) ``Mineral'' means any aggregate or mass of mineral matter, 
whether or not coherent, which is extracted by mining. This 
includes, but is not limited to, limestone, dolomite, sand, gravel, 
slate, argillite, diabase, gneiss, micaceous sandstone known as 
bluestone, rock, stone, earth, fill, slag, iron ore, zinc ore, 
vermiculite, clay and anthracite and bituminous coal.
    (i) ``Permitted activity site'' means a site permitted by the 
department of environmental protection under the provisions of 
article two, three or four of this chapter.
    (j) ``Person'' means a natural person, partnership, association, 
association members, corporation, an agency, instrumentality or 
entity of federal or state government or other legal entity 
recognized by law as the subject of rights and liabilities.
    (k) ``Project work area'' means that land necessary for a person 
to complete a reclamation project or a water pollution abatement 
project.
    (l) ``Reclamation project'' means the restoration of eligible 
land to productive use by regrading and revegetating the land to 
stable contours that blend in and complement the drainage pattern of 
the surrounding terrain with no highwalls, spoil piles or 
depressions to accumulate water, or to decrease or eliminate 
discharge of water pollution.
    (m) ``Water pollution'' means the man-made or man-induced 
alteration of the chemical, physical, biological and radiological 
integrity of water located in the state.
    (n) ``Water pollution abatement facilities'' means the methods 
for treatment or abatement of water pollution located on

[[Page 50247]]

eligible lands. These methods include, but are not limited to, a 
structure, system, practice, technique or method constructed, 
installed or followed to reduce, treat or abate water pollution.
    (o) ``Water pollution abatement project'' means a plan for 
treatment or abatement of water pollution located on eligible lands.
    22-27-4. Eligibility and project inventory.
    (a) General rule.--An eligible landowner or eligible project 
sponsor who voluntarily provides equipment, materials or services at 
no charge or at cost for a reclamation project or a water pollution 
abatement project in accordance with the provisions of this article 
is immune from civil liability and may raise the protections 
afforded by the provisions of this article in any subsequent legal 
proceeding which is brought to enforce environmental laws or 
otherwise impose liability. An eligible landowner or eligible 
project sponsor is only entitled to the protections and immunities 
provided by this article after meeting all eligibility requirements 
and compliance with a detailed written plan of the proposed 
reclamation project or water pollution abatement project which is 
submitted to and approved by the department. The project plan shall 
include the objective of the project and a description of the work 
to be performed to accomplish the objective and shall, additionally, 
identify the project location, project boundaries, project 
participants and all landowners.
    (b) Notice.--The department shall give written notice by 
certified mail to adjacent property owners and riparian land owners 
located downstream of the proposed project, provide Class IV public 
notice of the proposed project in a newspaper of general 
circulation, published in the locality of the proposed project, and 
shall give public notice in the state register. The project sponsor 
may also provide public notice. Any person having an interest which 
may be adversely affected by the proposed project has the right to 
file written objections to the department within thirty days after 
receipt of the written notice or within thirty days after the last 
publication of the Class IV notice. The department shall provide to 
the project sponsor a copy of each written objection received during 
the public comment period, which shall conclude at the expiration of 
the applicable thirty-day period provided for in this section.
    (c) Advice.--The department may provide advice to the landowner 
or to other interested persons based upon the department's knowledge 
and experience in performing reclamation projects and water 
pollution abatement projects.
    (d) Departmental review.--The department shall review each 
proposed reclamation project and approve the project if the 
department determines the proposed project:
    (1) Will result in the appropriate reclamation and regrading of 
the land according to all applicable laws and regulations;
    (2) Will result in the appropriate revegetation of the site;
    (3) Is not likely to result in pollution as defined in article 
eleven of this chapter; and
    (4) Is likely to improve the water quality and is not likely to 
make the water pollution worse.
    (e) Project inventory.--The department shall develop and 
maintain a system to inventory and record each project, the project 
location and boundaries, each landowner and each person identified 
in a project plan provided to the department. The inventory shall 
include the results of the department's review of the proposed 
project and, where applicable, include the department's findings 
under subsection (b), section ten of this article.
    (f) Appeal.--A person aggrieved by a department decision to 
approve or disapprove a reclamation project or a water pollution 
abatement project has the right to file an appeal with the 
environmental quality board under the provisions of article one, 
chapter twenty-two-b of this code.
    22-27-5. Landowner liability limitation and exceptions.
    (a) General rule.--Except as specifically provided in 
subsections (b) and (c) of this section, an eligible landowner who 
provides access to the land, without charge or other consideration, 
which results in the implementation of a reclamation project or a 
water pollution abatement project:
    (1) Is immune from liability for any injury or damage suffered 
by persons working under the direct supervision of the project 
sponsor while such persons are within the project work area;
    (2) Is immune from liability for any injury to or damage 
suffered by a third party which arises out of or occurs as a result 
of an act or omission of the project sponsor which occurs during the 
implementation of the reclamation project or the water pollution 
abatement project;
    (3) Is immune from liability for any injury to or damage 
suffered by a third party which arises out of or occurs as a result 
of a reclamation project or a water pollution abatement project;
    (4) Is immune from liability for any pollution resulting from a 
reclamation project or water pollution abatement project;
    (5) Is immune from liability for the operation, maintenance or 
repair of the water pollution abatement facilities constructed or 
installed during the project unless the eligible landowner 
negligently damages or destroys the water pollution abatement 
facilities or denies access to the project sponsor who is 
responsible for the operation, maintenance or repair the water 
pollution abatement facilities.
    (b) Duty to warn.--The eligible landowner shall warn the project 
sponsor of known, latent, dangerous conditions located on the 
project work area which are not the subject of the reclamation 
project or the water pollution abatement project. Nothing in this 
article shall limit an eligible landowner's liability which results 
from the eligible landowner's failure to warn of such known, latent, 
dangerous conditions.
    (c) Exceptions to immunity.--Nothing in this article may limit 
an eligible landowner's liability which results from a reclamation 
project or water pollution abatement project and which would 
otherwise exist:
    (1) For injury or damage resulting from the landowner's acts or 
omissions which are reckless or constitute gross negligence or 
willful misconduct.
    (2) Where the landowner accepts or requires consideration for 
allowing access to the land for the purpose of implementing a 
reclamation project or water pollution abatement project or to 
operate, maintain or repair water pollution abatement facilities 
constructed or installed during a water pollution abatement project.
    (3) For the landowner's unlawful activities.
    (4) For damage to adjacent landowners or downstream riparian 
landowners which results from a reclamation project or water 
pollution abatement project where written notice or public notice of 
the proposed project was not provided.
    22-27-6. Project sponsor liability limitation and exceptions.
    (a) General rule.--Except as specifically provided in subsection 
(b) of this section, a project sponsor who provides equipment, 
materials or services at no cost or at cost for a reclamation 
project or a water pollution abatement project:
    (1) Is immune from liability for any injury to or damage 
suffered by a person which arises out of or occurs as a result of 
the water pollution abatement facilities constructed or installed 
during the water pollution abatement project;
    (2) Is immune from liability for any pollution emanating from 
the water pollution abatement facilities constructed or installed 
during the water pollution abatement project unless the person 
affects an area that is hydrologically connected to the water 
pollution abatement project work area and causes increased pollution 
by activities which are unrelated to the implementation of a water 
pollution abatement project, Provided that the project sponsor 
implements, operates, and maintains the project in accordance with 
the plans approved by the department;
    (3) Is immune from liability for the operation, maintenance and 
repair of the water pollution abatement facilities constructed or 
installed during the water pollution abatement project.
    (b) Exceptions.--
    (1) Nothing in this article shall limit in any way the liability 
of a project sponsor which liability results from the reclamation 
project or the water pollution abatement project and which would 
otherwise exist:
    (A) For injury or damage resulting from the project sponsor's 
acts or omissions which are reckless or constitute gross negligence 
or willful misconduct.
    (B) For the person's unlawful activities.
    (C) For damages to adjacent landowners or downstream riparian 
landowners which result from a reclamation project or a water 
pollution abatement project where written notice or public notice of 
the proposed project was not provided.
    (2) Nothing in this article shall limit in any way the liability 
of a person who the department has found to be in violation of any 
other provision or provisions of this chapter.
    22-27-7. Permits and zoning.
    Nothing in this article may be construed as waiving any existing 
permit requirements or waiving any local zoning requirements.
    22-27-8. Relationship to federal and state programs.

[[Page 50248]]

    The provisions of this article shall not prevent the department 
from enforcing requirements necessary or imposed by the Federal 
Government as a condition to receiving or maintaining program 
authorization, delegation, primacy or federal funds.
    22-27-9. General permits.
    If the department determines it will further the purposes of 
this article, the department may issue a general permit for each 
reclamation project or water pollution abatement project, which 
shall:
    (1) Encompass all of the activities included in the reclamation 
project or water pollution abatement project.
    (2) Be issued in place of any individual required stream 
encroachment, earth disturbance or national pollution discharge 
elimination system permits.
    22-27-10. Exceptions.
    (a) General rule.--Any person who under existing law shall be or 
may become responsible to reclaim the land or treat or abate the 
water pollution or any person who for consideration or who receives 
some other benefit through a contract or any person who through a 
consent order and agreement or is ordered to perform or complete 
reclamation or treat or abate water pollution as well as a surety 
which provided a bond for the site is not eligible nor may receive 
the benefit of the protections and immunities available under this 
article.
    (b) Projects near mining or coal refuse sites.--This article 
does not apply to a reclamation project or a water pollution 
abatement project that is located adjacent to, hydrologically 
connected to or in close proximity to a site permitted under 
articles two, three or four of this chapter unless:
    (1) The reclamation project or water pollution abatement project 
is submitted to the department in writing before the project is 
started; and
    (2) The department finds:
    (A) The reclamation project or the water pollution abatement 
project will not adversely affect the permittee's obligations under 
the permit and the applicable law;
    (B) The activities on the project work area cannot be used by 
the permittee to avoid the permittee's reclamation or water 
pollution treatment or abatement obligations; and
    (3) The department issues a written notice of its findings and 
the approval of the project.
    (c) Projects in lieu of civil or administrative penalties.--This 
article shall not apply to a reclamation project or a water 
pollution abatement project that is performed in lieu of paying 
civil or administrative penalties.
    22-27-11. Water supply replacement.
    A public or private water supply affected by contamination or 
the diminution caused by the implementation of a reclamation project 
or the implementation of a water pollution abatement project shall 
be restored or replaced by the department with an alternate source 
of water adequate in quantity and quality for the purposes served by 
the water supply.
    22-27-12. Rules.
    The department may propose legislative rules in accordance with 
article three, chapter twenty-nine-a of this code as needed to 
implement the provisions of this article.

2. Committee Substitute for House Bill 2723

    This bill authorizes amendments to the West Virginia Surface Mining 
Reclamation Rules at CSR 38-2 and the Surface Mining Blasting Rule at 
CSR 199-1.
Amendments to CSR 38-2
    a. CSR 38-2-2.92. This definition is new, and provides as follows:

    2.92 Previously mined areas means land affected by surface 
mining operations prior to August 3, 1977, that has not been 
reclaimed to the standards of this rule.

    In its amendment, the WVDEP stated that the revision is intended to 
resolve an outstanding Part 732 issue relating to previously mined 
areas.
    b. CSR 38-2-3.29.a. This provision concerns incidental boundary 
revisions (IBRs) and is amended by deleting the following language from 
the end of the first sentence: ``is the only practical alternative to 
recovery of unanticipated reserves or necessary to enhance reclamation 
efforts or environmental protection.''
    In its submittal of this amendment, the WVDEP stated that the 
amendment in intended to delete language that was not approved by OSM 
(see the February 9, 1999, Federal Register, 64 FR 6201, at Finding 10, 
page 6208).
    As amended, CSR 38-2-3.29.a provides as follows:

    3.29.a. Incidental Boundary Revisions (IBRs) shall be limited to 
minor shifts or extensions of the permit boundary into non-coal 
areas or areas where any coal extraction is incidental to or of only 
secondary consideration to the intended purpose of the IBR or where 
it has been demonstrated to the satisfaction of the Secretary that 
limited coal removal on areas immediately adjacent to the existing 
permit. IBRs shall also include the deletion of bonded acreage which 
is overbonded by another valid permit and for which full liability 
is assumed in writing by the successive permittee. Incidental 
Boundary Revisions shall not be granted for any prospecting 
operations, or to abate a violation where encroachment beyond the 
permit boundary is involved, unless an equal amount of acreage 
covered under the IBR for encroachment is deleted from the permitted 
area and transferred to the encroachment area.

    c. CSR 38-2-5.4.a. This provision concerns general sediment control 
provisions, and is amended by adding language to incorporate by 
reference the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Soil Conservation Service 
(now known as the Natural Resources Conservation Service), Technical 
Release No. 60, ``Earth Dams and Reservoirs.'' As amended, Subsection 
5.4.a provides as follows:

    Sediment control or other water retention structures shall be 
constructed in appropriate locations for the purposes of controlling 
sedimentation. All runoff from the disturbed area shall pass through 
a sedimentation control system. All such systems or other water 
retaining structures used in association with the mining operation 
shall be designed, constructed, located, maintained, and used in 
accordance with this rule and in such a manner as to minimize 
adverse hydrologic impacts in the permit and adjacent areas, to 
prevent material damage outside the permit area and to assure safety 
to the public. The U.S. Department of Agriculture, Soil Conservation 
Service Technical Release No. 60 (210-VI-TR60, October 1985), 
``Earth Dams and Reservoirs,'' Technical Release No. 60 (TR-60) is 
hereby incorporated by reference. Copies may be obtained from the 
National Technical Information Service (NTIS), 5285 Port Royal Road, 
Springfield, Virginia 22161, order No. PB 87-57509/AS. Copies can be 
inspected at the OSM Headquarters Office, Office of Surface Mining 
Reclamation and Enforcement, Administrative Record, 1951 
Constitution Avenue, NW., Washington, DC, or at the Office of the 
Federal Register, 800 North Capitol Street, NW., suite 700, 
Washington, DC.

    d. CSR 38-2-5.4.b.9. This provision concerns freeboard of sediment 
control structures, and is amended by adding a proviso that 
impoundments meeting the Class B or C criteria for dams in ``Earth Dams 
and Reservoirs'', TR-60 shall comply with the freeboard hydrograph 
criteria in ``Minimum Emergency Spillway Hydrologic Criteria'' table in 
TR-60. As amended, Subsection 5.4.b.9 provides as follows:

    5.4.b.9. Provide adequate freeboard to resist overtopping by 
waves or sudden increases in volume and adequate slope protection 
against surface erosion and sudden drawdown. Provided, however, 
impoundments meeting the Class B or C criteria for dams in ``Earth 
Dams and Reservoirs'', TR-60 shall comply with the freeboard 
hydrograph criteria in ``Minimum Emergency Spillway Hydrologic 
Criteria'' table in TR-60.

    e. CSR 38-2-5.4.b.10. This provision concerns minimum static safety 
factor, and has been amended by deleting language in the first sentence 
related to loss of life or property damage, and adding in its place 
language concerning impoundments meeting the Class B or C criteria for 
dams contained in ``Earth Dams and Reservoirs,'' TR-60. As amended, 
Subsection 5.4.b.10 provides as follows:

    5.4.b.10. Provide that an impoundment meeting the size or other 
criteria of 30 CFR 77.216(a) or W. Va. Code [Section] 22-14 et seq., 
or Impoundments meeting the Class B or C criteria for dams contained 
in ``Earth Dams and Reservoirs'', TR-60, shall have a minimum static 
safety factor of 1.5 for a normal pool with steady state seepage

[[Page 50249]]

saturation conditions, and a seismic safety factor of at least 1.2. 
Impoundments not meeting the size or other criteria of 30 CFR 77.216 
(a) or W. Va. Code [Section] 22-14 et seq., except for a coal mine 
waste impounding structure, and located where failure would not be 
expected to cause loss of life or serious property damage shall have 
a minimum static safety factor of 1.3 for a normal pool with steady 
state seepage saturation conditions.

    f. CSR 38-2-5.4.b.12. This provision concerns stable foundations of 
sediment control structures, and has been amended by adding language at 
the end of the final sentence to clarify that the laboratory testing of 
foundation material shall be performed to determine the design 
requirements for foundation stability. As amended, Subsection 5.4.b.12 
provides as follows:

    5.4.b.12. Provide for stable foundations during all phases of 
construction and operation and be designed based on adequate and 
accurate information on the foundation conditions. For structures 
meeting the criteria of paragraph 5.4.b.10 of this subdivision, 
provide foundation investigations and any necessary laboratory 
testing of foundation material, shall be performed to determine the 
design requirements for foundation stability.

    g. CSR 38-2-5.4.c.7. This provision is new and provides as follows:

    5.4.c.7. Impoundments meeting the Class B or C criteria for dams 
in Earth Dams and Reservoirs, TR-60 shall comply with the following: 
(1) ``Minimum Emergency Spillway Hydrologic Criteria'' table in TR-
60; (2) the emergency spillway hydrograph criteria in the ``Minimum 
Emergency Spillway Hydrologic Criteria'' table in TR-60, or larger 
event specified by the Secretary; and (3) and the requirements of 
this subdivision.

    h. CSR 38-2-5.4.d.4. This provision, concerning design and 
construction certification of coal refuse impoundments and embankment 
type impoundments, has been amended by adding language concerning 
impoundments meeting the Class B or C criteria for dams. As amended, 
Subsection 5.4.d.4 provides as follows:

    5.4.d.4. Design and construction certification of coal refuse 
impoundments and embankment type impoundments meeting or exceeding 
the size requirements or other criteria of Federal MSHA regulations 
at 30 CFR 77.216 (a) or impoundments meeting the Class B or C 
criteria for dams in Earth Dams and Reservoirs, TR-60 may be 
performed only by a registered professional engineer experienced in 
the design and construction of impoundments.

    i. CSR 38-2-5.4.e.1. This provision concerns the inspection of 
impoundments and sediment control structures, and has been amended by 
adding language concerning impoundments meeting the Class B or C 
criteria for dams. As amended, Subsection 5.4.e.1 provides as follows:

    5.4.e.1. A qualified registered professional engineer or other 
qualified professional specialist, under the direction of the 
professional engineer, shall inspect each impoundment or sediment 
control structure provided, that a licensed land surveyor may 
inspect those impoundments or sediment control or other water 
retention structures which do not meet the size or other criteria of 
30 CFR 77.216(a), Impoundments meeting the Class B or C criteria for 
dams in Earth Dams and Reservoirs, TR-60 or W. Va. Code [Section] 
22-14 et seq., and which are not constructed of coal processing 
waste or coal refuse. The professional engineer, licensed land 
surveyor, or specialist shall be experienced in the construction of 
impoundments and sediment control structures.

    j. CSR 38-2-5.4.f. This provision concerns examinations of 
embankments, and has been amended by adding language concerning 
impoundments meeting the Class B or C criteria for dams. As amended, 
Subsection 5.4.f provides as follows:

    5.4.f. Examinations. Embankments subject to Federal MSHA 
regulations at 30 CFR 77.216 or impoundments meeting the Class B or 
C criteria for dams in Earth Dams and Reservoirs, TR-60 must be 
examined in accordance with 77.216-3 of said regulations. Other 
embankments shall be examined at least quarterly by a qualified 
person designated by the operator for appearance of structural 
weakness and other hazardous conditions. Examination reports shall 
be retained for review at or near the operation.

    In its submittal of the amendments concerning sediment control or 
other water retention structures, the WVDEP stated that the amendments 
are intended to resolve the outstanding Part 732 issue that 
impoundments meeting the Class B or C criteria for dams in Earth Dams 
and Reservoirs, TR-60, comply with (1) the freeboard criteria in TR-60, 
(2) have a minimum static safety factor of 1.5 for a normal pool with 
steady-state seepage saturation conditions, and a seismic safety factor 
of at least 1.2, (3) emergency spillway hydrologic criteria and the 
emergency spillway hydrograph criteria in TR-60, and (4) specify the 
certification, inspections, and examinations of requirements of these 
structures (see the Part 732 letter dated July 22, 1997, Administrative 
Record Number WV-1071). The WVDEP stated that the Federal counterpart 
is found in 30 CFR 816.49 concerning impoundments.
    k. CSR 38-2-7.4.b.1.A.1. This provision concerns the development of 
a planting plan and long-term management plan for commercial forestry. 
The first sentence of this provision is amended by clarifying that the 
professional forester must be a West Virginia registered professional 
forester.
    l. CSR 38-2-7.4.b.1.A.3. This provision concerns the commercial 
species plan for commercial forestry and is amended in the first 
sentence to clarify that the registered professional forester must be a 
West Virginia registered professional forester.
    m. CSR 38-2-7.4.b.1.A.3.(b). This provision concerns the creation 
of a certified geology map relating to commercial forestry areas. The 
provision is amended by revising the kinds of information pertaining to 
physical and chemical properties of strata that must be provided in the 
permit application. As amended, Subsection 7.4.b.1.A.3.(b) provides as 
follows:

    7.4.b.1.A.3.(b). An approved geologist shall create a certified 
geology map showing the location, depth, and volume of all strata in 
the mined area, the physical and chemical properties of each stratum 
to include rock texture, pH, potential acidity and alkalinity. For 
each stratum proposed as soil medium, the following information 
shall also be provided: total soluble salts, degree of weathering, 
extractable levels of phosphorus, potassium, calcium, magnesium, 
manganese, and iron and other properties required by the Secretary 
to select best available materials for mine soils.

    In its submittal of its amendment to this provision, the WVDEP 
stated that the amendment is to clarify that only the material proposed 
to be the resulting soil medium needs the additional analysis.
    n. CSR 38-2-7.4.b.1.A.4. This provision concerns the commercial 
forestry long-term management plan and is amended in the first sentence 
by adding the words ``West Virginia'' immediately before the words 
``registered professional forester.''
    o. CSR 38-2-7.4.b.1.B.1. This provision concerns a commercial 
forestry and forestry reclamation plan, and is amended by deleting the 
word ``certified'' immediately before the phrase ``professional soil 
scientist'' in the first sentence.
    In its submittal of its amendment to this provision, the WVDEP 
stated that the word ``certified'' is being deleted because West 
Virginia does not have a certification system for soil scientist.
    p. CSR 38-2-7.4.b.1.C.1. This provision concerns commercial 
forestry areas, and is amended by adding the word ``areas'' immediately 
following the words ``commercial forestry'' in the first sentence, and 
by revising the standards for slopes of the postmining landform. As 
amended, Subsection 7.4.b.1.C.1 provides as follows:


[[Page 50250]]


    7.4.b.1.C.1. For commercial forestry areas, the Secretary shall 
assure that the postmining landscape is rolling, and diverse. The 
backfill on the mine bench shall be configured to create a 
postmining topography that includes the principles of land forming 
(e.g., the creation of swales) to reflect the premining 
irregularities in the land. Postmining landform shall provide a 
rolling topography with slopes between 5% and 20% with an average 
slope of 10% to 15%. The elevation change between the ridgeline and 
the valleys shall be varied. The slope lengths shall not exceed 500 
feet. The minimum thickness of backfill, including mine soil, placed 
on the pavement of the basal seam mined in any particular area shall 
be ten (10) feet.

    q. CSR 38-2-7.4.b.1.C.2. This provision concerns commercial 
forestry areas and is amended by adding the word ``areas'' immediately 
after the phrase ``commercial forestry'' in the first sentence.
    r. CSR 38-2-7.4.b.1.C.3. This provision concerns commercial 
forestry areas and is amended by deleting the words ``in areas'' in the 
first sentence adding the word ``areas'' in their place.
    s. CSR 38-2-7.4.b.1.C.4. This provision concerns commercial 
forestry areas and is amended by adding the word ``areas'' immediately 
following the words ``commercial forestry'' in the first sentence. In 
addition, the first sentence is also amended by deleting the word 
``permitted'' and replacing that word with the words ``commercial 
forestry.''
    t. CSR 38-2-7.4.b.1.C.5. This provision concerns forestry areas and 
is amended by adding the word ``areas'' immediately after the word 
``forestry'' in the first sentence.
    The WVDEP stated in its submittal that this change has been made to 
``address a concern of the QA/QC Panel that the Configuration of 
regrade area is still too flat (Reference: Directors Meeting October 
15, 2003).''
    u. CSR 38-2-7.4.b.1.D.6. This provision concerns soil substitutes, 
and is amended by adding the words ``and is in accordance with 14.3.c 
of this rule'' at the end of the first sentence. As amended, the first 
sentence at CSR 38-2-7.4.b.1.D.6 provides as follows:

    7.4.b.1.D.6. Before approving the use of soil substitutes, the 
Secretary shall require the permittee to demonstrate that the 
selected overburden material is suitable for restoring land 
capability and productivity and is in accordance with 14.3.c of this 
rule.

    The WVDEP stated in its submittal that this change has been made to 
comply with the required program amendment codified in the Federal 
regulations at 30 CFR 948.16(wwww). The Federal regulations at 30 CFR 
948.16(wwww) provide that CSR 38-2-7.4.b.1.D.6 be amended to provide 
that the substitute material is equally suitable for sustaining 
vegetation as the existing topsoil and the resulting medium is the best 
available in the permit area to support vegetation.
    v. CSR 38-2-7.4.b.1.D.8. This provision concerns the final surface 
material used as the commercial forestry mine soil and has been amended 
in the first sentence by adding the word ``areas'' immediately after 
the phrase ``[f]or commercial forestry.''
    w. CSR 38-2-7.4.b.1.D.9. This provision concerns the final surface 
material used as the forestry mine soil and has been amended in the 
first sentence by adding the word ``areas'' immediately after the 
phrase ``[f]or forestry.''
    x. CSR 38-2-7.4.b.1.D.11. This provision concerns forestry mine 
soil, and has been amended by adding the phrase ``except for valley 
fill faces'' at the end of the sentence. As amended, Subsection 
7.4.b.1.D.11 provides that ``[f]orestry mine soil shall, at a minimum, 
be placed on all areas achieving AOC, except for valley fill faces.''
    In its submittal, the WVDEP stated that the amendment is intended 
to provide clarification.
    y. CSR 38-2-7.4.b.1.H.1. This provision concerns tree species and 
compositions for commercial forestry areas and forestry areas. The list 
of hardwoods in this provision is amended by deleting ``white and red 
oaks, other native oaks'' and adding in their place ``white oak, 
chestnut oak, northern red oak, and black oak'' and by adding the words 
``basswood, cucumber magnolia'' to the list. In addition, the word 
``areas'' is added immediately following the words ``[f]or forestry'' 
in the third sentence. In addition, the list of hardwoods for forestry 
areas is amended by deleting the words ``white and red oaks, other 
native oaks'' and adding in their place the words ``white oak, chestnut 
oak, northern red oak, black oak,'' and by adding ``basswood'' and 
``cucumber magnolia'' to the list. As amended, Subsection 7.4.b.1.H.1 
provides as follows:

    7.4.b.1.H.1. Commercial tree and nurse tree species selection 
shall be based on site-specific characteristics and long-term goals 
outlined in the forest management plan and approved by a registered 
professional forester. For commercial forestry areas, the Secretary 
shall assure that all areas suitable for hardwoods are planted with 
native hardwoods at a rate of 500 seedlings per acre in continuous 
mixtures across the permitted area with at least six (6) species 
from the following list: white oak, chestnut oak, northern red oak, 
black oak, white ash, yellow-poplar, basswood, cucumber magnolia, 
black walnut, sugar maple, black cherry, or native hickories. For 
forestry areas, the Secretary shall assure that all areas suitable 
for hardwoods are planted with native hardwoods at a rate of 450 
seedlings per acre in continuous mixtures across the permitted area 
with at least three (3) or four (4) species from the following list: 
white oak, chestnut oak, northern red oak, black oak, white ash, 
yellow-poplar, basswood, cucumber magnolia, black walnut, sugar 
maple, black cherry, or native hickories.

    In its submittal of the amendment to this provision, the WVDEP 
stated that the amendment is intended to provide clarification for oaks 
and mixtures.
    z. CSR 38-2-7.4.b.1.H.2. This provision has been amended in the 
first sentence by adding the word ``areas'' immediately after the 
phrase ``[f]or commercial forestry.''
    aa. CSR 38-2-7.4.b.1.H.6. This provision has been amended in the 
first sentence by adding the word ``areas'' immediately after the 
phrase ``[f]or commercial forestry.''
    bb. CSR 38-2-7.4.b.1.I.1. Subsection 7.4.b.1.I.1 has been amended 
in the last sentence by deleting the word ``certified'' immediately 
before the words ``soil scientist'' and adding in its place the word 
``professional.'' As amended, the sentence provides as follows: 
``[b]efore approving Phase I bond release, a professional soil 
scientist shall certify, and the Secretary shall make a written finding 
that the mine soil meets these criteria.''
    cc. CSR 38-2-7.4.b.1.I.2. Subsection 7.4.b.1.I.2 has been amended 
in two places by adding the word ``areas.'' The first sentence has been 
amended by adding the word ``areas'' immediately after the phrase ``for 
commercial forestry.'' The second from last sentence has been amended 
by adding the word ``areas'' immediately after the phrase ``both 
commercial forestry and forestry.''
    dd. CSR 38-2-7.4.b.1.I.3. Subsection 7.4.b.1.I.3 has been amended 
in three places by adding the word ``areas.'' The first sentence has 
been amended by adding the word ``areas'' immediately after the phrase 
``for commercial forestry and forestry.'' The second sentence has been 
amended by adding the word ``areas'' immediately after the words 
``[f]or forestry.'' The third sentence has been amended by adding the 
word ``areas'' immediately after the phrase ``for commercial 
forestry.''
    ee. CSR 38-2-7.4.b.1.I.4. This provision concerns a commercial 
forestry mitigation plan, and has been amended in the last sentence by 
adding the phrase ``and the site meets the standards of 9.3.h of this 
rule'' at the end of the sentence. In addition, the word ``and'' has 
been deleted in the last sentence immediately after the phrase ``follow 
the provisions of this rule'' and

[[Page 50251]]

that word has been replaced by a semicolon.
    In its submittal of the amendment to this provision, the WVDEP 
stated that in an August 18, 2000, Federal Register notice (65 FR 
50409, see pages 50423 and 50424), OSM stated that the requirement to 
pay twice the remaining bond is approved to the extent that payment of 
the civil penalty will not allow an other to receive final release. The 
WVDEP stated that the remainder of 7.4.1.I.4 was not approved.
    ff. CSR 38-2-7.4.b.1.J. This provision concerns the front faces of 
valley fills and has been amended by deleting existing Subsections 
7.4.b.1.J.1.(b) and (c) and re-designating existing Subsections 
7.4.b.1.J.1.(d) and (e) as new Subsections 7.4.b.1.J.1.(b) and (c). As 
amended, Subsection 7.4.b.1.J. provides as follows:

    7.4.b.1.J. Front Faces of Valley Fills.
    7.4.b.1.J.1. Front faces of valley fills shall be exempt from 
the requirements of this rule except that:
    7.4.b.1.J.1.(a). They shall be graded and compacted no more than 
is necessary to achieve stability and non-erodability;
    7.4.b.1.J.1.(b). The groundcover mixes described in subparagraph 
7.4.d.b.1.G. shall be used unless the Secretary requires a different 
mixture;
    7.4.b.1.J.1.(c) Kentucky 31 fescue, serecia lespedeza, vetches, 
clovers (except ladino and white clover) or other invasive species 
may not be used; and
    7.4.b.1.J.2. Although not required by this rule, native, non-
invasive trees may be planted on the faces of fills.

    In its submittal of this provision, the WVDEP stated that this 
provision was amended to remove language that contradicts other parts 
of CSR 38-2-7.4.
    gg. CSR 38-2-7.5.a. Section CSR 38-2-7.5 concerns Homestead 
postmining land use. Subsection CSR 38-2-7.5.a has been amended by 
adding a new sentence to the end of the existing language. As amended, 
CSR 38-2-7.5.a provides as follows:

    7.5.a. Operations receiving a variance from AOC for this use 
shall establish homesteading on at least one half (\1/2\) of the 
permit area. The remainder of the permit area shall support an 
alternate AOC variance use. The acreage considered homesteading 
shall be the sum of the acreage associated with the following: the 
civic parcel; the commercial parcel; the conservation easement; the 
homestead parcel; the rural parcel and any required infrastructure.

    We note that this revision is intended to comply with the required 
program amendment codified in the Federal regulations at 30 CFR 948.16 
(rrrrr). The requirement at 30 CFR 948.16 (rrrrr) provides for the 
amendment of: (1) CSR 38-2-7.5.a to clarify whether or not the 
calculated acreage of the Commercial Parcel(s) is to be summed with the 
total Homestead acreage for the purpose of calculating the acreage of 
other various components of the Homestead Area (such as Common Lands, 
Village Parcels, Conservation Easement, etc.); and (2) CSR 38-2-7.5.l.4 
to clarify whether or not the acreage for Public Nursery is to be 
calculated based on the amount of acreage available for the Village 
Homestead, the Civil Parcel, or the entire Homestead Area (see Item 
2(mm) below).
    hh. CSR 38-2-7.5.b.3. This provision concerns the definition of 
``Commercial parcel,'' and has been amended by deleting the word 
``regulation'' in the last sentence and replacing that word with the 
word ``rule.'' In addition, a new sentence has been added to the end of 
the provision. As amended, Subsection 7.5.b.3 provides as follows:

    7.5.b.3. Commercial parcel means a parcel retained by the 
landowner of record and incorporated within the homestead area on 
which the landowner or its designee may develop commercial uses. The 
size and location of commercial parcels shall comply with the 
requirements of this rule. Provided, however, parcels retained by 
the landowner for commercial development and incorporated within the 
Homestead area must be developed for commercial uses as provided by 
subdivision 7.5.g.5 of this rule.

    In its submittal of the amendment of this provision, the WVDEP 
stated that the amendment is to comply with the required program 
amendment codified in the Federal regulations at 30 CFR 948.16(fffff). 
The requirement at 30 CFR 948.16(fffff) provides that CSR 38-2-7.5.b.3 
be amended, or the West Virginia program otherwise be amended, to 
clarify that parcels retained by the landowner for commercial 
development and incorporated within the Homestead area must be 
developed for commercial uses as provided by Subsection CSR 38-2-
7.5.g.5.
    ii. CSR 38-2-7.5.i.10. This provision concerns wetlands associated 
with Homestead areas, and is amended by adding a new sentence 
immediately following the existing first sentence. As amended, 
Subsection 7.5.i.10 provides as follows:

    7.5.i.10. Wetlands. Each homestead plan may describe areas 
within the homestead area reserved for created wetlands. The created 
wetlands shall comply with the requirements of 3.5 of this rule. 
These created wetlands may be ponds, permanent impoundments or 
wetlands created during mining. They may be left in place after 
final bond release. Any pond or impoundment left in place is subject 
to requirements under subsection 5.5 of this rule.

    In its submittal of the amendment of this provision, the WVDEP 
stated that the amendment is to comply with the required program 
amendment codified in the Federal regulations at 30 CFR 948.16(iiiii). 
The requirement at 30 CFR 948.16(iiiii) provides that CSR 38-2-7.5.i.10 
be amended, or the West Virginia program otherwise be amended, to 
require compliance with the permit requirements at CSR 38-2-3.5.d.
    jj. CSR 38-2-7.5.j.3.A. This provision concerns the definition of 
soil in relation to Homestead areas, and is amended in the first 
sentence by adding the soil horizon ``E'' between soil horizons ``A'' 
and ``B.''
    In its submittal of the amendment of this provision, the WVDEP 
stated that the amendment is to comply with the required program 
amendment codified in the Federal regulations at 30 CFR 948.16(jjjjj). 
The requirement at 30 CFR 948.16(jjjjj) provides that CSR 38-2-
7.5.j.3.A be amended by adding an ``E'' horizon.
    kk. CSR 38-2-7.5.j.3.B. This provision concerns the recovery and 
use of soil on Homestead areas, and is amended by deleting the 
exception that is stated in the first sentence. As amended, Subsection 
7.5.j.3.B provides as follows:

    7.5.j.3.B. The Secretary shall require the operator to recover 
and use all the soil on the mined area, as shown on the soil maps. 
The Secretary shall assure that all saved soil includes all of the 
material from the O and A horizons.

    In its submittal of this revision, the WVDEP stated that the 
revision is intended to comply with the required program amendment 
codified in the Federal regulations at 30 CFR 948.16 (kkkkk). The 
requirement at 30 CFR 948.16 (kkkkk) provides that CSR 38-2-7.5.j.3.B 
be amended by deleting the phrase, ``except for those areas with a 
slope of at least 50%,'' and by deleting the phrase, ``and other areas 
from which the applicant affirmatively demonstrates and the Director of 
the WVDEP finds that soil cannot reasonably be recovered.''
    ll. CSR 38-2-7.5.j.3.E. This provision concerns soil substitutes 
and is amended by adding the phrase ``and is in accordance with 14.3.c 
of this rule'' at the end of the first sentence.
    In its submittal of this revision, the WVDEP stated that the 
revision is intended to comply with the required program amendment 
codified in the Federal regulations at 30 CFR 948.16 (lllll). The 
requirement at 30 CFR 948.16 (lllll) provides that CSR 38-2-7.5.j.3.E 
be amended, or the West Virginia program otherwise be amended, to 
provide that soil substitute material must be equally suitable for 
sustaining

[[Page 50252]]

vegetation as the existing topsoil and the resulting medium is the best 
available in the permit area to support vegetation.
    mm. CSR 38-2-7.5.l.4.A. This provision concerns public nursery 
associated with Homestead areas, and is amended by adding the word 
``village'' between the words ``homestead'' and ``area'' in the first 
sentence.
    In its submittal of this revision, the WVDEP stated that the 
revision is intended to comply with the required program amendment 
codified in the Federal regulations at 30 CFR 948.16 (rrrrr). The 
requirement at 30 CFR 948.16 (rrrrr) provides for the amendment of: (1) 
CSR 38-2-7.5.a to clarify whether or not the calculated acreage of the 
Commercial Parcel(s) is to be summed with the total Homestead acreage 
for the purpose of calculating the acreage of other various components 
of the Homestead Area (such as Common Lands, Village Parcels, 
Conservation Easement, etc.); and (2) CSR 38-2-7.5.l.4 to clarify 
whether or not the acreage for the Public Nursery is to be calculated 
based on the amount of acreage available for the Village Homestead, the 
Civil Parcel, or the entire Homestead Area.
    nn. CSR 38-2-7.5.o.2. This provision concerns Phase II bond release 
of surface mining operations with a Homestead postmining land use, and 
is amended by adding a proviso at the end of the existing provision. As 
amended, CSR 38-2-7.5.o.2 provides as follows:

    7.5.o.2. Phase II bond release may not occur before two years 
have passed since Phase I bond release. Before approving Phase II 
bond release, the Secretary shall assure that the vegetative cover 
is still in place. The Secretary shall further assure that the tree 
survival on the conservation easements and public nurseries are no 
less than 300 trees per acre (80% of which must be species from the 
approved list). Furthermore, in the conservation eas