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Home My WebLink About02-06 North American Emerald Mine File Pt. 6NCDENR North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources Division of Land Resources Land Quality Section James D. Simons, P.G., P.E. Acting Director and State Geologist July 24, 2002 Mr. James K. Hill North American Emerald Mines, Inc. P.O. Box 57 Hiddenite, North Carolina 28636 RE: Blasting Complaint North American Emerald Mine Permit No. 02-06 Alexander County Dear Mr. Hill: Michael F. Easley, Governor William G. Ross Jr., Secretary The review has been completed on the shot records you previously submitted for the April 5,8, 10 and 18, 2002 blasts at the North American Stone Mine. Although your company has been found to be in compliance with the blasting conditions outlined in Mining Permit No. 02-06, 1 strongly suggest adjustments be made to your blasting procedures to lessen the noise levels. Based on the readings you provided, it appears that the public's adverse reaction to your blasting operations may have been related to elevated airblast. While these readings were just within the maximum limits specified in your mining permit for this site (129 dbl), they were sufficiently high enough to produce citizen complaints. We recommend that your company carefully review the blast records and determine if any adjustments can be made in your blasting procedures that could reduce the potential for future complaints. In addition, decreasing the airblast would lessen the chance for a permit violation. I have already notified the complainant, Ms. Dorothy Watkins, of our findings. 1612 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, North Carolina 27699-1612 •919-733-4574 / FAX: 919-733-2876 512 North Salisbury Street, Raleigh, North Carolina, 27604 An Pnnal r)nnnrtunity 1 Affirmative Action Emolover-50% Recycled 110% Post Consumer Paoer r NCDENR North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources Division of Land Resources Land Quality Section James D. Simons, P.G., P.E. Michael F. Easley, Governor Acting Director and State Geologist William G. Ross Jr., Secretar July 24, 2002 Ms. Dorothy Watkins P.O. Box 276 Hiddenite, North Carolina 28636 RE: Blasting Complaint North American Emerald Mine Permit No. 02-06 Yadkin County Dear Mr. Watkins: Our office has completed its review of North American Emerald Mines, Inc.'s blasting information, including blast reports and seismograph recordings, related to the blasts conducted during the period of April 5, 2002 through April 18, 2002. It was found that North American Emerald Mines, Inc. was in compliance with the blasting requirements of its mining permit during the period in question. All peak particle velocities, a measurement of ground vibration with units in inches per second (ips), were well below the maximum allowable limits specified in North American Emerald Mines, Inc.'s mining permit (copy enclosed). More specifically, all recorded values were negligible (.005 ips or less). According to extensive research by the U.S. Bureau of Mines and others, particle velocities below 0.5 ips effectively eliminate the possibility of any structural damage. All airblast readings, a measurement of the atmospheric pressure wave (overpressure) with units in psi or dBL, were also just below the maximum allowable limits specified in the mining permit (129 dBL) and well below the U. S. Bureau of Mines' recognized level of 164 dBL for prevention of glass breakage. A key point worth noting is that glass breakage occurs at much lower levels of overpressure than structural damage, such as cracking plaster. 1612 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, North Carolina 27699-1612 •919-733-4574 I FAX: 919-733-2876 512 North Salisbury Street, Raleigh, North Carolina, 27604 An Eaual O000rtunity 1 Aftmative Action Emolover— 50% Recycled 110% Post Consumer Paoer LAND QUALITY SECTION BLASTING ANALYSIS WORKSHSET (* = denotes fields where input data is needed) Permit No.*: 02-06 Permittee*: north american emerald Mine Name*: north american emerald Blast Report No.*: Date of Blast*: 04/05/02 Time of Blast*: 16:50 Peak Particle Velocity Check: D = Distance to closest offsite occupied structure (ft): D* = 1250.00 W = Maximum pounds of explosives per delay (pounds): W* = 10.00 SD = Scaled Distance: SD = D/WA0.5 SD = 395.28 V = Peak Particle Velocity (inches per second): V = 160 (SD)A-1.6 V = 0.01 (*Max. limit in mining permit is: V = 1.0 ips) Based on known distances from the blast to the seismograph and any additional location, the expected vibration level can be estimated at the second location as follows: V = Particle velocity measured by the seismograph (ps): V* = 0.00 DS = Distance from blast to seismograph (ft): DS* = 1260.00 d = Distance from blast to second location (ft): d* = 1250.00 PPV = Theoretical peak particle velocity at the closest offsite occupied structure (ips): PPV = V(DS/d)A1.5 PPV= 0.0000 Airblast (Overpressure) Check: P = Unconfined Airblast/Overpressure (psi): P = 82 (D/WA0.33)A-1.2 P = 0.039221 To convert (psi) to (dBL): (P/2.9 x 10A-9)log x 20 P = 142.62 AB = Confined Airblast/Overpressure (dBL): AB = P (dBL) - 35 dBL (for quarry situation) AB= 107.62 (*Max, limit in mining permit is: AB = ! ` dBL) Explosives Column Check: (this is a very approximate method based upon numerous assumptions; specific densities may vary greatly depending upon the type and manufacturer of the explosive products used in the shot; must consider each explosive used; refer to Dupont Handbook for actual SPD, otherwise use the following:) Assumptions (per Ireco): If "straight" emulsion is used, use SPD (specific density) = 1.20 If a "blend/slurry" is used, use SPD (specific density) = 1.25 If "straight" anfo is used, use SPD (specific density) = 0.85 Ratio between explosives: Total pounds of Explos. #1* = 10.00 Total pounds of Explos. #2* = N/A Ratio between explosives = N/A Average pounds of explosives used per hole (pounds)* = 1.00 Breakdown of average pounds of explosives per hole due to ratio: Explosive#1= 1o.00 Explosive #2 = N/A SPD = Specific densities for each explosive: SPD for Explos. #1 * = 0.85 SPD for Explos. #2* = N/A HD = Hole Diameter Used in Shot (inches): HD* = 1.88 LD = Loading Density (pounds per foot of column): LD = SPD(.34)(HD)^2 LD for Explos. #1 = 1.02 LD for Explos. #2 = N/A Explosive column height for each explosive (feet): Explos. #1 = 0.98 Explos. #2 = N/A Total explos. column height = 0.98 Stemming height used in shot (feet)* = 3,00 Total height of explosive column(s) and stemming in the hole = 3.98 Total depth of hole denoted on the blasting report for the shot in question" = 4.00 Analysis Completed By: d .ti Date: °T— 3 A � LAND QUALITY SECTION BLASTING ANALYSIS WORKSHEET (* = denotes fields where input data is needed) Permit No.*: 02-06 Permittee*: north american emerald Mine Name*: north american emerald Blast Report No.*: Peak Particle Velocity Check: Date of Blast*: 04/08/02 Time of Blast- 15:43 D = Distance to closest offsite occupied structure (ft): D* = 1250.00 W = Maximum pounds of explosives per delay (pounds): W* = 32.00 SD $ Scaled Distance: SD = D/WA0.5 SD = 220.97 V = Peak Particle Velocity (inches per second): V = 160 (SD)"-1.6 V = 0.03 (*max. limit in mining permit is: V = 1.0 ips) Based on known distances from the blast to the seismograph and any additional location, the expected vibration level can be estimated at the second location as follows: V - Particle velocity measured by the seismograph (ips); V* = 0,00 IDS = Distance from blast to seismograph (ft): DS* = 1250.D0 d = Distance from blast to second location (ft): d* = 1250.00 PPV = Theoretical peak particle velocity at the closest offsite occupied structure (Ips): PPV = V(DS/d)A1.5 PPV= 0.0000 Airbiast (Overpressure) Check: P = Unconfined Airbiast/Overpressure (psi): P = 82 (D/WA0,33)A-12 P = 0.062167 To convert (psi) to (dBL): (P/2.9 x 10A-9)Iog x 20 P = 146,62 AS = Confined Airblast/Overpressure (dBL): AS = P (dBL) - 35 dBL (for quarry situation) AB= 111.62 (*max, limit in mining permit is: AS = dBL) Explosives Column Check: (this is a very approximate method based upon numerous assumptions; specific densities may vary greatly depending upon the type and manufacturer of the explosive products used in the shot; must consider each explosive used; reter to Dupont Handbook for actual SPD, otherwise use the following:) Assumptions (per Ireco): If "straight' emulsion is used, use SPD (specific density) = 1,20 It a "blend/slurry" is used, use SPD (specific density) = 1.25 It "straight" anfo is used, use SPD (specific density) = 0.85 Ratio between explosives: Total pounds of Explos. #1" = 32.00 Total pounds of Explos. #2- = N/A Ratio between explosives = N/A Average pounds of explosives used per hole (pounds)" = 1.00 Breakdown of average pounds of explosives per hole due to ratio: Explosive #1 = 32.00 Explosive #2 = N/A SPD = Specific densities for each explosive: SPD for Explos. #1" = 0,85 SPD for Explos. #2- = N/A HD = Hole Diameter Used in Shot (incheS): HD- = 1.88 LD = Loading Density (pounds per foot of column). LD = SPD(.34)(HD)A2 LD for Explos. #1 = 1.02 LD for Explos. #2 = N/A Explosive column height for each explosive (feet): Explos. #1 = 0.98 Explos. #2 = N/A Total expios. column height = D.98 Stemming height used in shot (feeV = 3.00 Total height of explosive oolurnn(s) and stemming in the hole = 3.98 Total depth of hole denoted on the blasting report for the Shot in question` = 4.00 Analysis Completed By: i r Date: LAND QUALITY SECTION BLASTING ANALY818 WORKSHEET C = denotes fields where input data is needed) Permit No.": 02-06 Permittee': north american emerald Mine Name'": north american emerald Blast Report No.': Peak Particle Velocity Check: Date of Blast": 04/08/02 Time of Blast`: 15:13 D = Distance to closest ottsite Occupied structure (tt): D- = 1250.00 W = Maximum pounds of explosives per delay (pounds): IN' = 25.00 SD = Scaled Distance: SD = D/W"0.5 SD = 250.00 V = Peak Particle Velocity (inches per second): V = 160 (SD)^-1,6 V = 0.02 (-Max. limit in mining permit is: V = 1.0 ips) Based on known distances from the blast to the seismograph and any additional location, the expected vibration level can be estimated at the second location as follows: V = Particle velocity measured by the seismograph (ips): V' = 0.00 DS = Distance from blast to seismograph (ft): DSx = 1250.00 d = Distance from blast to second location (tt): d" = 1250.00 PPV = Theoretical peak particle Velocity at the closest Ottslte occupied structure (ips): PPV = V(DS/d)-1.5 PPV= 0.0000 Airblast (Overpressure) Check: P = Unconfined Airblast/Overpressure (psi): P = 82 (D/W^0.33)--1.2 P = 0.056378 To convert (psi) to (dBL): (P/2.9 x 10^-9)log x 20 P = 145,77 AB = Confined Aimlast/Overpressure (dBL : AB = P (dBL) - 35 dBL (for quarry situation) AB= 110.77 Max. limit in mining permit is: AB = / dBL) Explosives Golumn Gneck: (this is a very approximate method based upon numerous assumptions; specific densities may vary greatly depending upon the type and manufacturer of the explosive products used in the shot; must consider each explosive used; reter to Dupont Handbook for actual SPU, otherwise use the following:) Assumptions (per !reed): It "Straight" emulsion is used, use SPD (specific density) = 1,20 It a "Nencuslurry' is used, use 8HO (specific density) = 125 It "straight" anto is used, use SPD (specific density) = ti.aS Ratio between explosives: I otal pounds of Expos, #1' = 25.00 Total pounds of Explos. #2" = N/A Ratio between explosives = NIA Average pounds of explosives used per hole (pounds)- = i.00 breakdown of average pounds of explosives per note due to ratio: Explosive #1 = 25.00 Explosive #2 = N/A SPU = specmc densities for each explosive: SPD for Expios. #1 ` = o.85 SPD for EXpIOS. #2- = NIA HD = Hole Uiameter used In Snot (Inches): HU' = 1.6ti LD = Loading Density (pounds per toot of column): LD = 9PD(.34)(HD)A2 LU for Explos. #1 = 1.02 LD for Expios. #2 = N/A Explosive column height for each explosive (feet): Expios. #1 = 0.98 ExpiOS. #2 = N/A i otal explos. column height = o.9tt stemming height used in shot (feet), = 3.0o Total height of explosive column(s) and stemming in the hole = 3.98 Total depth of hole denoted on the blasting report tar the Shot in question" = 4,00 Analysis c;ompreted by: l 1,U 10 n z Date: rl „)� LAND QUALI I Y SLG I foN t3LAS I INU ANALYSIS WOKKSHLL (- = denotes fields where input data is needed) Permit NO.': 02-Ob Permittee": north american emerald Mine Name": north amencan emerald Blast Report No.": Peak Particle Velocity Gheck: Date of Blast": 04/10/U2 Time of Blast'; 15:58 U = Distance to closest ottsite occupied structure (if): D- = 125U.0U W = Maximum pounds of explosives per delay (pounds): W' = 26.00 SD = Scaled Distance: SD = D/W^U.5 SD = 250.00 V = Peak Particle Velocity (inches per second): V = 160 (SD)"-1,6 V = 0.02 ("max. limit in mining permit is: V = 1.0 fps) Based on known distances trom the blast to the seismograph and any additional location, the expected vibration level can be estimated at the Second location as toliows: V = Particle velocity measured by the seismograph (fps): v- = u.uo DS = Distance trom blast to seismograph (it): DS' = 1250.00 d = Distance from blast to second location (tt): d" = 1250,Uu PPV = f heoretical peak particle velocity at the closest ottsite occupied structure (fps): PPV = W05/0)"1,5 PPV= 0.0000 Airblast (overpressure) Check: P = Uncontmed Airblast/Ovetpressure (psi): P = 82 (WWO.33)"-1.2 P = 0.056378 To convert (psi) to (dBL): (P/2.9 x 10^-9)log x 20 P = 145.77 AB = Gonined Airblast/overpressure (dBL)" AB = P (CIBL) - 35 a8L (tor quarry Situation) AB= 11UJ r ("max. limit in mining permit is: AB = (1BL) explosives Column CnecK: (this is a very approximate method based upon numerous assumptions; specific densities may vary greatly depending upon the type and manufacturer of the explosive products used in the shot; must consider each explosive used; reter to Uupont HandbOOK for actual SPU, otherwise use the following:) Assumptions (per Ireco): It "straight' emulsion is used, use 5PD (specific density) = 1.20 it a "blend/slurry" is used, use 5PD (specific density) = 1.25 It "straight' anto is used, use SPU (specific density) = 0.65 Ratio between explosives: I otal pounds of txplos. #1' = 2b.uu Total pounds Of ExplOs. #2' = N/A Ratio between explosives = N/A Average pounds of explosives used per hole (pounds), = 1.00 breakdown of average pounds of explosives per hole due to ratio: Explosive #1 = 25.00 Explosive #Z = N/A SPu = Specitic densities for each explosive: SPD for Explos. #1' = 0.85 SPU for Explos. #2' = N/A HU = Hole Ulameter Used in Snot (mcbes): HU' = 1.66 LD = Loading Density (pounds per foot of Column): LD = SPD(.34)(HD)^2 LD for Explos. #1 = 1.OZ LU for txplos. #2 = N/A txplosive column height Tor each explosive (feet): Explos. #1 = 0.98 txplos. #2 = N/A I otal explos. column height = 0.98 Stemming height used in shot (feet)' = 3.00 Total height of explosive column(s) and stemming in the hole = 3.98 Total depth of hole denoted on the blasting report for the shot in question` = 4.00 Analysis completed 11V Date: d� Ja LAND QUALI l Y St--(; i ION BLA8I ING ANALYSIS WORKShtt I (" = denotes fields where Input data Is needed) Permit No.': U2-015 Permittee": north american emerald Mine Name': north american emerald Blast Report NO.-: Peak Particle Velocity Check: Date of Blast': 04/10/02 Time of Blast': 16:35 U = Distance to closest ottsite occupied structure (tt): D' = 125U.UU W = Maximum pounds of explosives per delay (pounds): VV" = 20,00 SD = Scaled Distance: SD = D/WAO.5 SD = 279.51 V = Peak Particle Velocity (inches per second): V = 160 (8D)A-1.6 V = 0.02 (-max. limit in mining permit is: V = 1.0 ips) Based on known distances from the blast to the seismograph and any additional location, the expected vibration level can be estimated at the second location as follows: V = Particle velocity measured by the seismograph (ips): V" = o.uo DS = Distance from blast to seismograph (ft): DS" = 1250.00 Cl = Distance from blast to second location (tt): a, = 1250.UU PPV = I neoretioal peak particle velocity at the closest oftsite occupied structure (ips): PPV = V(DS/(J)A1.5 PPV= 0.0000 Airblast (Overpressure) Check: P = Uncontmed AlrblasVOverpressure (psi): P = 62 (D/WA0.33)A-1.Z P = 0.051610 To convert (psi) to (tlBL): (P/2.9 x 10^-9)log x 20 P = 145.01 AB = Confined Airblast/Overpressure (tlBL)' AB = P (tlBL) - 35 tlBL (tor quarry situation) AB= 110.U1 (-Max, limit in mining permit is: AB = '� 4 tlBL) LANU QUALI I Y SLU I ION BLAS I INU ANALY..I6 WORKSHtt I (x = denotes tieids where input data is needed) Permit NO.': 02.05 Permittee-: north american emerald Home Name-: north amencan emerald Blast Report NO.-: Peak Particle Velocity check: Date of Blaster: 04110/02 Time of Blast': 17:01 D = Distance 10 Closest ottslte occupied structure (it): D' = 1250.00 W = Maximum pounds of explosives per delay (pounds): VV" = 12.00 SD = 5calea Distance: SD = D/W^0.5 SD = 350.84 V = Peak Particle Velocity (Inches per second): V = 160 (SD)^-1.6 V = 0.01 (-max. limit in mining permit is: V = 1.0 ips) Based on known distances tram the blast to the seismograph and any additional location, the expected vibration level can be estimated at the second location as tollows: V = Particle velocity measured by the seismograph (ips): V" = 0.00 DS = Distance from blast to seismograph (tt): DS' = 1250.00 d = Distance from blast to second location (it): d` = 12bu.00 PPV = I neoretical peak panicle velocity at the closest onsite occupied structure (cps): PPV = V(DSRV1.5 PPV= 0.0000 Alrblast (Overpressure) cneCk: P = Unconfined Airblast/OVerpressure (psi): P = 82 (D/W^0.33)^-1.2 P = 0.042158 To convert (psi) to (dBL): (P12.9 x 10^-9)log x 20 P = 143.25 AB = Conned Almlast/Overpressure (dBL): AB = P (dBL) - 35 dBL (tor quarry situation) Ab= 10d,Zb ('max. limit in mining permit is: AB =1�� dBL) txplosiveS column cnecK: (this is a very approximate method based upon numerous assumptions; specitic densities may vary greatly depending upon the type and manufacturer of the explosive products used in the shot; must consider each explosive used, refer to Dupont HandbooK for actual SPU, otherwise use the tollowmg:) Assumptions (per lreco): It "straight" emulsion is used, use SPU (specinc density) = 1.20 it a 'niergfslurry" is used, use SPU (specitic density) = 1.25 It "straight" anto is used, use SPU (specitic density) = 0.65 Ratio between explosives: I Otal pounds Ot tXpIOS. #1"= 2U.00 Total pounds of Explos. #2- = N/A Ratio between explosives = N/A Average pounds of explosives used per hole (pounds)' = 1.00 t3reaKdown of average pounds of explosives per note due to ratio: Explosive #1 = 20.00 txplosive #2 = N/A SPu = Specitic densities for each explosive: SPD for Explos. #1" = 0.85 SPU for rxplos. #2" = NIA HD = Hole Diameter used in Shot (inches): HD" = 1.66 LD = Loading Density (pounds per toot of column): LD = SPD(.34)(HD)A2 LD for Explos. #1 = 1.02 LD for Lxplos. #2 = N/A explosive column height for each explosive (teet): Explos. #1 = 0.98 txplos. #2 = NA I otal explos. column height = 0.96 Stemming height used in shot (teet)" = 3.00 Total height of explosive column(s) and stemming in the hole = 3.98 Total depth of hole denoted on the blasting report for the shot in question" = 4,00 Analysis completed t3y: �� A It', Date: 'I LAND QUALI I Y SEC; I lUN BLAB I INC3 ANALYSIS WURKSHGt l (' = denotes helas where input data Is needed) Permit No.': U2-U8 Permitteex: north american emerald Mine Name': north amencan emerald Blast Report No.': Peak Particle Velocity Cheek: Date of Blast": 04/18/02 Time of Blast`: 17:01 D = Distance to closest otrsite occupied structure (it): D' = 1250.OQ W = Maximum pounds of explosives per delay (pounds): W' = 15.00 SD = Scaled Distance: SD = D/W^0.5 SD = 312.50 V = Peak Particle Velocity (inches per second): V = 16Q (5DJ^-1.6 V = 0.02 (-max. limit in mining permit is: v = 1.o tps) Based on Known distances from the blast to the seismograph and any additional location, the expected vibration level can be estimated at the second location as tonows: v = Partieie velocity measured by the seismograph (ips): v' = o.00 DS = Distance trom blast to seismograph (tt): DS' = 1250.00 a = Distance from blast to second location (tty W = 1250.0U PPv = i heoreticai peaK particle velocity at the closest ottsite occupied structure (ips): PPV = V(DS/d)^1.5 PPV= 0.0000 AirblaSt (Uvefpressure) GnecK: P = unconfined AlrblasVoverpressure (psi): P = 82 (D/W^0.33)^-1.2 P = 0.047245 To convert (psi) to (dBL): (P/2.9 x 106-9)109 x 20 P = 144.24 AB = contmea Aurolast/overpressure (at$):,I AB = P (aBL) , 35 aBL (tor quarry situation) Ab= 1 U9.24 ("max. limit in mining permit is: AB = I _ aBL) Explosives (:owmn GriecK: (this is a very approximate method based upon numerous assumptions; specific densities may vary greatly depending upon the type and manufacturer of the explosive products used in the snot; must consider each explosive used; refer to Uupont HandbooK for actual SPU, otherwise use the following:) Assumptions (per ireco): It "straight" emulsion is used, use SPD (specific density) = 1.20 It a "blena/slurry" is used, use SPU (specific density) = 1.25 It "straight" anto is used, use SPD (specific density) = 0.85 Ratio between explosives: i otal pounds of Explos. #1- = 16.Ou Total pounds of Explos. #2" = N/A Ratio between explosives = N/A Average pounds of explosives used per hole (pounds)" = 1.ou ereaKdown of average pounds of explosives per hole due to ratio: Explosive #1 = 16.00 explosive #2 = N/A SPU = Specitic densities for each explosive: SPD for Explos. #1* = 0.85 SPU for EXpIOS. #Z- = N/A HU = Hole Diameter Used in Shot (inches): HUI LD = Loading Density (pounds per foot of column): LD = SPD(.34)(HU)^2 LD for Explos. #1 = 1.02 LU for Explos. #2 = N/A explosive column height for each explosive (feet): Explos. #1 = 0.W Explos. #2 = N/A I otal explos. column height = 0.ua Stemming height used in shot (feet)" = 3.00 Total height of explosive column(s) and stemming in the hole = 3.88 Total depth of hole denoted On the blasting report for the shot in question` = 4.00 Analysis Gompieted Date: '�7 - IRO o4z- i A m Z- June 26, 2002 JUL 0 12002 Ms. Judith A. Wehner Assistant State Mining Specialist Land Quality Section North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources 1612 Mail Service Center Raleigh, NC 27699-1612 RE: Blasting Complaint North American Emerald Mines, Inc. Permit No. 02-06 Alexander County Yadkin River Basin In accordance with your request we are enclosing the following information for your review: Copy of your request for information Letter from Sauls Engineering, Inc. 7 Seismograph Reports — 4/5/02 4/8/02 4(10/02V, (4 events) 4/18/02 Please let us know if you need additional information. NORTH AMERICAN EMERALD MINES, INC%. Producing the Finest Quality Emeralds & Gems James K. Hill r. �— in North America > President Enclosures P.O. Box 57 liddenite, NC 28636 SAX 828•6� 63z-$'8`7Z -EL 828-635.5718 NCDENR North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources Division of Land Resources Land Quality Section Charles H. Gardner, P.G., P.E. Michael F. Easley, Governor Director and State Geologist William G. Ross Jr., Secretary April 11, 2002 Mr. James K. Hill, Jr. North American Emerald Mines, Inc. , P.O. Box 57 Hiddenite, North Carolina 28636 RE: Blasting Complaint North American Emerald Mine Permit No. 02-06 Alexander County Yadkin River Basin Dear Mr. Hill: This office recently received a complaint directed at blasting practices conducted at the above referenced quarry. According to the complainant, Ms. Dorothy Watkins, the vibrations produced from the blast at the North American Emeralds Mine on April 8 and April 10, 2002 caused her house to shake. As provided in the mining permit this site, you are requested to provide this office duplicate copies of all shot records related to the blasts conducted on April 8 and April 10. 200 , especially any seismograph recordings made. Furthermore, please forward all shot information for We production shot conducted immediately prior to and one production shot after the blasts in question for this office's review. It is recommended that you disc this matter with Ms. Watkins. Her address and telephone number are as follows: P.O. Box 276 Hiddenite, North Carolina 28636 (828)635-0556 1612 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, North Carolina 27699-1612 • 919-733-4574 / FAX: 919-733-2876 512 North Salisbury Street; Raleigh, North Carolina, 27604 An Equal Opportunity 1 Affirmative Action Employer-50% Recycled 110% Post Consumer Paper Hill age Two 8 I look forward to receiving the requested information in the near future. Your continued cooperation will be appreciated. Sincerely, Judith A..Wehner :..Assistant_State.Mining Specialist Land Quality Section cc: Mr. Doug Miller, P.E. Ms. Dorothy Watkins SA 01W ENGINEERS, INC. May 2, 2002 10660 South Tryon Street Sulte 3 Charlotte, NC 28273 USA Judith A. Wehner Assistant State Mining Specialist . Land Quality Section 1612 mail Service Center Raleigh, NC 27699-1612 RE: Blasting Complaint North American Emerald Mine Permit No. 02-06 Alexander County Yadkin River Basin Dear Ms. Wehner 704-504-0466 FAX 704-504-0730 WATS 800-351-8566 On March 26, 2002, Saul's Engineers, Inc. installed a permanent seismograph to monitor blasting operations for north American Emerald Mines at Hiddenite, NC. We have been monitoring and reporting to them the seismic data for each of their shots since that time. - Enclosed with this letter you will find the corresponding seismograph reports for the dates indicated in the complaint filed with your office. If you have any further questions regarding this issue, please call our office at 800- 1-85 6 Sincerely, John Babcock John Babcokl ENGINEERS, INC. 704-504-041 Fax 704-504-07: 10660 South 11yon Street Wale 800-351-10 Mobile 9Gf.Yilr4M Suite 3 Sp Charlotte, NC 28273 USA ol'i jR96-71150neer&ca Seismic Servke . prdPmt Blast & Cos'oa & Rental s Pile Drive Monitoring . SeismographSaks BIRMINGHAM, AL e ATLANTA, GA a CHAPMANVILLE, W,V- 9 CHARLOTTE, NC • LOUISVILLE, KY 9 NASHVILLE, TN North American Emerald Mines: Hiddenite Seismograph location: 475' SSE of 301 Duncan Ln. Shot Location: Quarry Distance: 1250' Maximum lbs. per delay: 10 Operator: Chris Dupree File: H0409048.DTB Event Number: 048 Date: 04/05/2002 line: 16:50 Acoustic Trigger: 106 dB Seismic Trigger. 0.02in/s 0.508mm/s Serial Number: 1869 plltudes and Frequencies 4coustic (R�17 ,dB @ 34.1 Hz (0.14Mb 0.0020psi 0.0140kPa) Radial (R): 0.005in/s 0.127mm/s @ O.OHz Vertical (V): 0.005in/s 0.127mrn/s @ 0.0Hz Transverse (T): O.00in/s 0.00mm/s @ O.OHz Calibration Date (yyyy/mm/dd): 2001/09/25 'A nn (25 (2 Radial (R) - iNs (mm/s) Graph Information 0.000 sec To: 5.500 sec lWa9c Scale: 0.20Mb (0.050Mb/div) Seismic Scale: 0.20in/s (0.050in/s/div) 5.08mm/s (1.270mm/s/div) Time Lines at. 1.00 sec intervals Versus Frequency - 1 n nn (25 (2 Vertical (l0 - INs (mm/s) Cal OK Cal OK Cal OK Cal OK _ V (RI 8507, 1980) 10.00 Transverse M - ln/s (mm/s) (254.00) 1.00 (25.40) 0.10 (2.54) 0.01 L (0.25)1 M SLASTIM Compgny/Lawton t7esto—.:7. _ C)..................... Time..:l.:.� Name of Blaster_ .�? •Z- �. _..--- L enso Na.:.------ ------ ----_.. .-----••-•----....------ ---- - ..- •- .... Temp•- ra t R Direction/Dlstanc# of Nearest 9 Max. pounds Rv�vmmended by Bureau of Mines per delay .......... RUST ,1�5I DATA ......�---- . Material blasted -------------- ---•-------------- No. of Holes.__burden.............. _.... ! t. Length Uepih burden X - Factor .Iona-Yt�rds X...... X ....�............ •----...... --- - - - ------ ------Pounds Hish 1=x we as -------------------•- ---.._----- ---- ----------Pounds Nfh'o-�ark�on-Nitrates---------------------------- � - -- ------ Pounds Total Explosives Us+d--------------- ----------- - .......-.........Pounds a,nd f E _-_._•. Yards -Tan: par /P° o aarva...-•-----•-------•---._......._..._ Diameter_____ _q/4•---------DPth of Holes-- g-_.-..ln. ..,,...•Ft. of Firing ---I L �C�y. -- • •.----........ -----....-- Methad Type Circo � Sterttin .�_-•a-.• No. of Ft. ..•.3........ Material- ....... ._.-•_..•.-- Delays Type...... .1..�� l.�i.......,,_- Nfl- of Periods.---- -------- Max. Hales per delay._. Max. Pounds per delay._ Pritttacard�..._..------- Type------------- -- Ft. Used----------------------- Capra Mfg .i� _�,. .... Na. Used...L_) - Length ...._.. • - Na- MS comeetorso Type •_----- Wo. primers ...... l..�... ..... Type ......--------- -...., .... North Miler ic!T Emerald Mine HiDuncae ra h location: 475' SSE of 301 Duncan Ln. SeySmog P Lion Ouarry to File: H0409054.DTB Acoustic Trigger: 106 dB �— Amplitudes and Frequencies acoustic (A): 127 dB @ 30.1 Hz (0.44Mb 0.0064psi 0.O4400a) Radial (R): 0.005in/s 0.127mm/s @b.OHz Vertical (O. 0.005irils 0.127tRm/s @ 0.OHz Transverse (T): 0.005itVs 0.127mm/s @ O.OHz n on Dat25 e (yyyy1mm1dd):20 I V.AAI at1- hVs (MMIS) 10.( (254.0 1 (25. C Shot Loca Distance: Maldmtn lbs.per delay: 32 Operator: Chris Dupree 02Dae04/08/20T' 15:/a Event Number054 s Serial Number:1969 Seismic Trigger: 0.02m/s 0.50gaun/ Graph Information duration: 0.000 sec To: 5.500 sec 4coustic Scale: 0113Mb/div) 127d]� 0.45Mb Seismic Scale: 5 08mm/s (1.270mn>! s/div) 0.20irl/s (0.O5,0in/s/div) Time Lines at: 1.00 sec intervals 1 _ Ws (mmis) Cam Cal OK Cal ox Cal OK„ mm/s) 10.00 Transverse (T) - ItVs ( A.00) 1.00 (25.40) 0.01 Y3 Al> Tirna . marns,04 BlasterWOCOW • NaetraYt Direction/Distance °f u of Minas par delay........_. by $ure4 ptiur►ds ila��►�"d°d Mc x. �,p`gT" DATA _ ...- Blasted ---- :.._..+- '.. H+ moterial / - - _ .. B�Tderl..................- Qles... €o_--- factor hlo, of Hp1h Bundan Vona -Yard 1•�,gth X ... X .............. X ...... .. - --- --- -Pounds Kithplosivas -- - - _ ' --- - - - Nhra�� Nitrntea --;: --- -- ., .-------- ------------------•-�n ................... ds. -- - ----- -- Ua+d •--------------- pl°"vss -. _ and of F�c ai Total �s..Tan: s---�-�- ..ln. ..,,...•H. Ya l Depth of 1' Diameter-_--1-- - � - f firing------- miming % ?n::�., ...1'10• of Ft - o. of rlocls._....... ----- S pe �..c................ 8 3 2--- puv�s Per MaX• s per delay •- -�` .------ � -• Nlax- & p _- - Ft. ilaed•--........ PriTn�rd,.. •------- -Type------- - d...�..� --- i_angth-----.� � .. _. 149- ms Type ...�..... -- -... . • ow.w Nc. pr�me1'�•--••-.. --------- �Nor h Aine;ican But" -SS can Ln. Seismograph location: 475' SSE of 30] Dun Shot Location: Quarry Distance: 1250' Maximum lbs. per delay: 25 Chris Dupree Operator: Time: 5:13 Event Number.004 Date: 04/1:01200S�Number: 1969 File: H0418004.DTB Seismic T � 0 02in/s 0.508rnm/s Acoustic Trigger: 106 dB Amplitudes and Frequencies tcoustic (A): 125 dB @ 22.2 Hz (0.36Mb 0.0052psi 0.0360kPa) Radial (R): 0.005in/s 0.127mn✓s @ O.OHz Vertical (1g:0.005in/s 0.127mtt✓s @ O.OHz Transverse (V: 0.005in/s 0.127runds @ O.OHz ..Alai tit) - Inds (11TOV5) 10 (254. (2' Graph Information )uration: 0.000 sec T0: 5.500 sec 4coustic Scale: 0 090Mbldiv) 125dB 0.36Mb Seismic Scale: 5 08mm/s (1.270na[Js/di ) 0.20in/s (0.050in/a/div) sus Frequency - IISBM Limits l 0 'Tr ansverse fn ws (mm s1 vertical M. - hvsOVUM 10.00 10.00. (254.00) (25.40) (2.54) (0 1.00 (2.54) 0.01 L (0.25)1 BLASTING- LOG LV-onW No- ------------ 11ama of Blaster_--c1 L.�•---- - .•J`f Temp •- .. -- - --- Wate...-. eFt- Dir06on/DiftnccofN�roYt Dwellingr delay .......... Ma '. x. Pounds ltacommendad by 13ureQu of M►nes Pe -*A McIteriQi Blasted ...... /�--�rr 1_G---- --- --- .... Ft. • spacing . ....... No. of Holes - quad+n Fattor l et►gth��` X X .............Yon$ -Yards "" •�-_-.-r-•----- Pounds • __ [-7ep1�pE1vE5-----•---•-- - ---POUi1�S ------ N1tro-Carbon-Nitrates ----- - -- - .Pounds Total explosives Used •---- - und of Exploaivo •----------------••- Yar�ls-Tans per po 1i�....ln. _f l -- --- Depth of Holes-- - ..,,..., Diameter - - J r_i_� —_,-Type Circuit •......,............... method pf �iritl� �......... ............ of k• .-�-•. Malorla min 7mt.=. ..... so_ of Teri s•----•--------- �............. r deiaY---- 2�-- �, Halos per delay•--z,S✓ Max. Pounds pe Ft. used ..................... -- Prim Type------------- zS' length ...2-. - COPS, 11,0. use Type ...... No. primers ........-• A North American Emerald Mines: Mildenite Seismograph location: 475' SSE of 301 Duncan Ln. Shot Location: Quarry Distance: 1250' Maximum lbs, per delay: 25 7e Operator: Chris Dupree o� File: H0418005.DTB 1 yent Number: 005 Date: 04/10/2002 Time: 5:55 Acoustic Trigger. 106 dB Seismic Trigger: 0.02in/s 0.508mm/s Serial Number: 1869 Amplitudes and Frequencies Acoustic (A): 119 8B @ 23.2 Hz (0.18Mb 0.0026psi 0.018OkPa) Radial (R): 0.005in/s 0.127mm/s @ O.OHz Vertical (0: 0.005in/s 0.127mm/s @ O.OHz Transverse M: 0.005in/s 0.127mm/s @ O.OHz in nn (25 Particle Vel( Radial (R) - in/s (mm/s) Versus 10.00 (25 (2 Graph Information 0.000 sec To: 5.500 sec Acoustic Scale: 120dB 0.20Mb (0.05OMb/div) Seismic Scale: 0.20in/s (0.050in/s/div) 5.08mm/s (1.270mm/s/div) Time Lines at. 1.00 sec intervals - USBM Limits I - in/s (mm/s) 10.00 (254.00) 1.00 (25.40) 0.10 (2.54) 0.01 (0,25) Cal OK Cal OK l V Cal OK Cal OK Transverse O - INs (mm)s) BLASTING- WG 17 Com n 14cpiton Y/ , O A.M. Date.-_.. _- �.�.�.� _ - .._............ Name of License No,* ...... ------ Weather ...... _LJ G LC----............._.------......... Temp....-------- Directton/Distance of Nearatt Dwelling..`t.m: Max. Pouncls Recommended by Bureau of Mines per delay .......... RIAT DATA Material Blasted ..........--------------....---_. No. of Holes--- 2 Owd en......_.......... Ft. • Spacing -....... -.... Length depth Ourdien Factor X . X .............. X ................'Eons-Ydrdt High Explosives ------------------ --------------------Pounds NttTo-Carbcn-Nitrates - - - ------------------ - ------ -------•--Pounds Total Explosives Uard--------------- --------------------- ------ 2<-5.'.Powids Yards -Tons per pound of ExPlcaiva------------------------------------------- Diameter------ -? I- Depth of Holes-_-- 4_ 1...In. ........ Ft. Mt h*d Cif Firing ----E� AUC ;--•------ Type Circuit -1........ ...-....... ---- , 5terning----71..k�t�..�..INo. of Ffi..... ��'....... Material .......... ._.......... Delaysi Type....... ........— No. of Periods ............ -- Max. holes per delay._. Max. Pounds per delay__--------- Pritttacard:..-.. --- - - Typo ---------- ---- -- Ft. Used ..................... -- � / I I Capv Mfg,..111a._l�4LL. No. Used ... �� Length ....... NQ- MS Conner o"t ..,---------- - -Typo - -_ - --- No. Primers. ................... Type ............... -------------------- t G 3 i North American Emerald Mines: Mddenite Seismograph location: 475' SSE of 301 Duncan Ln. Shot Location: Quarry Distance: 1250' Maximum Ills. per delay: 20 Operator: Chris Dupree File:H0418006.DTB EyentNumber: 006 Date:04/10/2002 Time: 6:35 Acoustic Trigger: 106 dB Seismic Trigger: 0.02in/s 0.508mm/s Serial Number: 1869 Amplitudes and Frequencies Acoustic (A): 114 dB @ 24.3 Hz (0.10Mb 0.0015psi 0.01 OOkPa) Radial (R): 0.03inls 0.762muts @ 39.3Hz Vertical (V): 0.015in/i 0.381mm/s @ 39.3Hz Transverse (T): 0.01 in/s 0.254mm/s @ 0.0Hz I 0 00 (25 G Radial (R) - INs (mm/s) 1000 (2: C Graph Information 0.000 sec To: 5.500 sec Scale: ).201V1 (0.050Mb/div) 0.20in/s (0.050in/s/div) 5.08mm/s (1.270mm/s/div) Time Lines at: 1.00 sec intervals Cal OK lCal OK _ V Cal OK Cal OK - USBM Limits I - INs (mm/s) 10.00 Transverse (1) - in/s (mm/s) (254.00) 1.00 (25.40) 0.01 A.M. Z_ ......+..w... ...... Time.. 1 V �•'_-' yr- . Y_ Lkanzv No ....... e oil Blaster_ �..... TemA..:.------- Wc Ca--F---............. 1 nee p�reetion�Dl:ta of. Naw*lf Dwelling..-ply-m�� : %..� .:� • Max. Pax►,Os ROiomm*nded by 13UMOU of Mines per delay .......... T DAM C= .. Material Slaw ....... -- ----- --------- -.... of Hoies..2Q- �mlvn...•-.-......... Ft..Spacin8_......._.... } No. - (3urn Factor ' Length bepth X................ fens-Ydrda •.... X ... W.........J. •_ - ......ww.-•- Pounds Hlgh Explosives -----•--------•---• ...... _--- - - --....-Pounds Hitro-Carbon-Nitrales ------ -- ------ - ......�w.... ......_.................. .........pwnds Total Expiosivss Us+d ----- •-----•--------------- -- Yords-Tons par pound of Explosive .}.�......................Ft J Depth of Holes- in. . Dktmew ------ h- - - 1-: _ TYPc Cirtttif .................... AAaii►od crf Firi�----�ds��-�---•• Nd of Pt..... �....... Material .................. Ste�M;ng. ilm, so. of pariods........_..-- DAIP T z :.s.............— pounds per .-.----- Used...... Max• Now par deiay...��?.. Max. � delay ...._. h ... f�. . . cpm Mfg... - . Usad... Zv-_ lend •. ... . CC� ...: �:........ No . c�ors9 Type y e...... MS �1� Type .... F- North American Emerald Mines: Hiddenite Seismograph location: 475' SSE of 301 Duncan Ln. Shot Location: Quarry Distance: 1250' Maximum lbs. per delay: 12 Operator: Chris Dupree File:H0418007.DTB ]rventNumber.007 Date:04/10/2002 Ti e::17:01 Acoustic Trigger: 106 dB Seismic Trigger: 0.02in/s 0.508mm/s Serial Number. 1869 Amplitudes and Frequencies Qcatlstic (A): 121 dB @ 36.5 Hz (0.22Mb 0.0032psi 0.0220kPa) Radial (j?) Q.005in/s 0.127mrn/s @ O.OHz Vertical M!0.005in/s 0.127mm/s @ O.OHz Transverse M: 0.005in/s 0.127mm/s @ O.OHz Radial R - tn/s (mMs} (2 Graph Information 0.000 sec To: 5.500 sec Acoustic Scale: 121 dB 0.22Mb (0.055Mb/div) Seismic Scale: 0.20in/s (0.050in/s/div) 5.08mm/s (1.270mm/s/div) Time lines at: 1.00 sec intervals :rsus rrequeucy - --- Vertical (V) - in/s (mm/s) 2 — Cal OK - — CalOK — Cal OK — Cal OK (RI 8507, 1980) 10.00 Transverse (r) - in/s (mm/s) ;254.00) (25,40) 0.10 (2.54) 0.01 (0.25) BLASTING, LIB pony/lwcatlon ��yr_j.._.w—_/ N�rr►e,o� at�star_ r ...... st D"Illn�.ly.m Diroclion/Dl:tanca of l 1J1tax. Roo s Ree°mmendad by gareou of Minas Par daisy.......... ......,-O ` DIkT------ -- --------------------- Material B9cn<t 1 rrden......_.......... ill' Vpoctno ........ .... r - No. of Holos --- �. Pth rclsn Feaet�ar ' ...._ _ Length . X . X ... .............long -Yards X...N.• ...NI N...1.f..1• n.. .w......ov EXPlosives - --_ -_--------------- job H--- - -- -- - -_ Pounds _.�......_................................... ...... •------------•-.pounds T Total 1b plosivss Used --------------------------------- ...(. _._...._...P d= Yamoons per pound of Fxplosive ...------ —--•---- ............_...... Of Holes in. .......Ft. of i:�� _. Type Circuit .................... i�t .. . stamina...- 1:t�,�s.. Ab of k.�j Motorial•-.........,..... - So, of period&..... Max. Holes per Max. Pounds per delay•-•- �Used...... .....11...`.._ No. Used..._I Length... caps,. rl4- Ms cam; _....- �....�.% �.�...__-- .... Ty 10.00 1.00 (25.40) i 0.01 r LinejsA�or1 �� lhe>r�d Shot Lv 475' SS8ey: riiddenite Dis canon; p„ °f30.1 Duncan L,,. F11e, tartce: I2 �-�"lY H0419o02 pu�lb Sp, 40 0 Am °pu4o Tamer. 10 8vpn Ntop.Chtys r ustic (A�• 1 8iitailos Sentio Toa'ber 002 Dupree- el-h al�� O.Op OOj 0p � 0 430 Clew 0 02� 0 08 120 Serif a o):0.01 27n kPa) 869 ali alive r� 0 0 5�0.12711 0.0j� ndate6y�jm�� 2 0�� .. 09/2S 10 nn cn: Gr .Op aAh Inform 1rah O28dghc `Scale: 0 seo T0: 5.500 see tion 0. SOnlb 0. 20m/s is scale: (0.125 1b/div) (0.050 TimeLinesat 00�0)u�t08�mm/s(1.270n'Ws/cliy) ls Cal 0K Cal pg Cal OK \Z�� Cal of< (254. 10.00 rr1-1-V.o) _ 00) 1.00 Comp#„y/t9iC lon ....LU-17_-- Datv� , .� = a.:?. ------------------- rime .... .1i.�.. � - -P.M. Name of Slaster-_7 I -)-a/` --F:�:: - - ----- Licensa No.-• ------ ------ Weather ...... C2.C,_L-= --...............................---- Dinetion/Distan O of Nearest bwelllnp..L ,, ;./.../A- _Ft. Max. Pounds Ro�omrnended by Bureau of Mines per delay.......... T DATA Material Blasted .--..�G �.---=---------------------------------------, No. of Holes.-Z____ Owrdsn.................. Ft.- spacing _....... _.... Pt. Length bepth Burden Factor ...---�_........ X .............----- X .... ........... .- X ... .............Iona -Yards FHlgh Explosives ------------------------- ,------- -------Pounds Nffro•-Carbon-Nitrates---- ------------ ------ ------.----------.--•------ Pounds ---------------------__.....----....._.......... ---------- Pounds Total Explosives used• -------------- ---------------- 1-Cle .................Pburtds Yards -Tans per 7/pound of Fxploaiva........................................... Diameter---__ L -_.---------- Dapth of Holes__��.f,�..--....In. Ft. Meth,ad pt Firing_, L�r_ � C� ------ Type OrtuH .............. .......... No. of Ft..... ....... Material .......... ........ Delays, .............. No. of Periods ............ -- Max. Holes per delay._.Max. Pounds per delay......__-- Prim=rd:--------- ------ Tm------- ------ -- Ft. Used ..................... _. Cxapsa Mfg.,. 1.�� L_if,...... No. Used..._/. ---- Length .... 1Y...... Nk- MS Cormectorsa Type ------- ----------------- ------ No. Primers......1 ......... Typ...... NCDENR North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources Division of Land Resources Land Quality Section Charles H. Gardner, P.G., P.E. Director and State Geologist April 11, 2002 Mr. James K. Hill, Jr. North American Emerald Mines, Inc. P.O. Box 57 Hiddenite, North Carolina 28636 RE: Blasting Complaint North American Emerald Mine Permit No. 02-06 Alexander County Yadkin River Basin Dear Mr. Hill: Michael F. Easley, Governor William G. Ross Jr., Secretary This office recently received a complaint directed at blasting practices conducted at the above referenced quarry. According to the complainant, Ms. Dorothy Watkins, the vibrations produced from the blast at the North American Emeralds Mine on April 8 and April 10, 2002 caused her house to shake. As provided in the mining permit for this site, you are requested to provide this office duplicate copies of all shot records related to the blasts conducted on April 8 and April 10, 200 , especially any seismograph recordings made. Furthermore, please forward all shot information for one production shot conducted immediately prior to and one production shot after the blasts in question for this office's review. It is recommended that you discuss this matter with Ms. Watkins. Her address and telephone number are as follows: P.O. Box 276 Hiddenite, North Carolina 28636 (828) 635-0556 1612 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, North Carolina 27699-1612 • 919-733-4574 / FAX: 919-733-2876 512 North Salisbury Street, Raleigh, North Carolina, 27604 An Equal Opportunity \ Affirmative Action Employer-50% Recycled \ 10% Post Consumer Paper M--