NC0084620_ARO WQROS complete file_20211105

r
RCDENR
North Carolina Department of Environment at-ur=al,,Resources ; oaf
Division of Water Quality
Beverly Eaves Perdue Charles Wakild, P. E. --.9 ~'n n
Governor Director ® Q p3e ry
MAY 14 2012
April.30,2012 ;
WATER QUALITY SECTION
Mr.Jeffrey S.Ferguson,P.E. ASHEVILLE REGIONAL OFFICE
Unimin Corporation
P.O.Box 588 Spruce Pine,NC 28777
Subject: NPDES Permit Issuance
Permit No.NCO084620
Unimin Corporation-Crystal Facility
Facility Class H
Mitchell County
.Dear Mr.Ferguson:
Division personnel have reviewed and approved your application for renewal of the
subject permit. Accordingly,we are forwarding the attached NPDES discharge permit. This
permit is issued pursuant to the requirements of North Carolina General Statute 143-215.1 and
the Memorandum of Agreement between North Carolina and the U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency dated October 15,2007(or as subsequently amended).
The permit authorizes Unimin Corporation to discharge up to 553,000 GPD of treated
process wastewater from Crystal Facility to the North Toe River, a class C-Trout water in the
French Broad River Basin. The final permit includes discharge requirements and/or limitations
for flow,total fluoride,total suspended solids,turbidity, chlorides and other parameters.
The receiving stream,North Toe River,is listed as an impaired waterbody on the North
Carolina 303(d),Impaired Waters List. Addressing impaired waters is a high priority with the
Division, and instream data will continue to be evaluated. If there is noncompliance with
permitted effluent limits and stream impairment can be attributed to your facility,then
mitigative measures may be required.
Based on draft permit comments received from the Unimin Corporation, special
'condition A. (8)was changed to: 1)remove the last paragraph regarding installation of an
additional effluent pump, and 2)to correct the phone number for the Asheville Regional Office .
1617 Mail Service Center,Raleigh,North Carolina 27699-1617
Location:512 N.Salisbury St.Raleigh,North Carolina 27604
Phone:[phone] FAX:[phone] Customer Service:1-877-623-6748
Internet:www.ncwaterouality.orq One
An Equal Opportunity 1 Affirmative Action Employer No`f""Carolina
Naturalltf

Mr.Ferguson
April 30,2012
Page 2 of 3
The following modifications-in-.the draft permit of March 14,2012,remain in the permit:
• The facility address was changed to 136 Crystal Drive in Spruce Pine,NC.
• The upstream and downstream sampling locations were changed to upstream at
least 50:feet and downstream at least 300 feet.
• Instream pH monitoring will remain as a part of the permit based on the effluent
limit included in the permit.,The instream monitoring frequency will be reduced to
�....- weekly.
• The monitoring frequency for settleable solids was reduced to weekly.
• Additional treatment components were included on the supplement to cover permit
page.
• Language on the supplement to cover permit page,regarding an Authorization to
Construct permit,was removed based on submittal of the engineer's certification in
March 2009.
• Language on the supplement to cover permit page regarding the discharge of
stormwater through outfall 002 was removed. Division staff confirmed that the
Crystal Facility does not discharge stormwater.
• Upstream and downstream monitoring for total suspended solids was added based
on the impairment of the North Toe River for turbidity and the permitted load of
total suspended solids discharged by the facility. The monitoring frequency will be
weekly.
• Minor language has been modified in condition A.2. Chronic Toxicity Permit Limit
and a new paragraph regarding data submittal has been added (the second
paragraph from the end of the condition).
• The entire section(Part II in the previous permit)regarding stormwater monitoring,
controls and limitations for permitted discharges was removed from the permit.
Division staff confirmed that the Crystal Facility does not discharge stormwater.

Mr.Ferguson
April 30,2012
Page 3 of 3
If any parts,measurement frequencies or sampling requirements contained in this
permit are unacceptable to you,you have the right to an adjudicatory hearing upon written
request within thirty(30) days following receipt of this letter. This request must be in the form
of a written petition, conforming to Chapter 150B of the North Carolina General Statutes,and
filed with the Office of Administrative Hearings,6714 Mail Service Center,Raleigh,North
Carolina 27699-6714. Unless such a demand is made,this permit shall be final and binding.
Please take notice that this permit is not transferable. The Division may require
modification or revocation and reissuance of the permit. This permit does not affect the legal
requirements to obtain other permits,which may be required by the Division of Water Quality,
or permits required by the Division of Land Resources,Coastal Area Management Act,or any
other Federal or Local governmental permits may be required.
If you have any questions or need additional information,please contact Ms.Jacquelyn
Nowell at telephone number(919)807-6386.
Sincerely,
V,
64,Y--
Charles Wakild,P.E.
Attachments
cc: Asheville_Regaonal�Off ce/Surface_Water Protection Section(ecopy)
Aquatic Toxicology(ecopy)
NPDES File
Central Files

Permit Number: NC0084620
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA
DEPARTMENT, OF ENVIRONMENT AND NATURAL RESOURCES
DIVISION OF WATER QUALITY
PERMIT
TO DISCHARGE WASTEWATER UNDER THE
NATIONAL POLLUTANT DISCHARGE ELIMINATION SYSTEM
In compliance with the provisions of North Carolina General Statute 1.43-215.1, other lawful
standards and regulations promulgated and adopted by the North Carolina Environmental
Management Commission, and the Federal Water Pollution.Control Act,as amended,the .
Unimin Corporation
is hereby authorized to discharge wastewater from a facility located at
Crystal Facility
136 Crystal Drive
Spruce Pine
Mitchell County
to receiving waters designated as the North Toe River in the French Broad River Basin in
accordance with effluent limitations,monitoring requirements, and other conditions set forth in
Parts I, II; III and IV hereof.
This permit shall become effective June 1, 2012.
This permit and authorization to discharge shall expire at midnight on February 28,2016.
Signed this day April 30, 2012..
Charles Waldld,P.E-,Director
`r Division of Water Quality
By Authority.of the Environmental Management Commission
1

Permit Number: NCO084620
SUPPLEMENT TO PERMIT COVER SHEET
All previous NPDES Permits issued to this facility, whether 'for operation or discharge are
hereby revoked, and as of this issuance, any previously issued permit bearing this number is no
longer effective. Therefore, the exclusive authority to operate and discharge from this facility
arises under the permit conditions,requirements,terms, and provisions included herein.
The Unimin Corporation Crystal Facility is hereby authorized to:
1. Continue operation of a wastewater treatment plant for process wastewater from mineral
extraction consisting of:
• mix/reactor tanks
• lime and polymer feed systems
ti • thickener P ff
---7`�• 700,000.gallon earthen effluent solids settling pond
• Ultrasonic water level transducer
• 30 HP sump pump V
• drum filter
• pH adjustment and
• flow measurement.
The Crystal Facility is located at 136 Crystal Drive, Spruce Pine,Mitchell County, and
2. Discharge treated process wastewater from said treatment works through Outfall 001 at
the locations specified on the attached map into the North Toe River, which is classified
C Trout waters, in the French Broad River Basin.
2

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k�_ stal Facility Facility
State Grid/Quad: D 10 NE/Spruce Pine,NC Permitted Plow: 0.553 MGD Location
Latitude: 35'54'12" Longitude: 82°03'25"
:....:_..... _
Receiving Stream: North Toe River Sulu-Basin: 04-03-06 not to scale
Drainage Basin: French Broad River Basin HUC#: 0601010801
Stream Class: C Trout p® ,�7/ NPDES Permit No.NCO084620
North h Mitchell County

Permit Number: NCO084620.
A. (1). EFFLUENT LIMITATIONS AND MONITORING REQUIREMENTS-FINAL
During the period beginning on the effective date of the permit and lasting until expiration,the
pernnittee is authorized to discharge process wastewater from mineral extraction of ore from
Outfall 001. Such discharges shall be limited and monitored by the permittee as specified
below:
EFFLUENT'LIMITATIONS MONITORING R:EQUIREldigNTS
EFFLUENT
CHARACTERISTICS ' Monthly; Daily MeasuremenI Sample Sample
Average Maximum. Frequency Type Location'
Flow 0.553 MGD Continuous Recording I or E
Total Fluoride 50.0 lb/day 100.0 lb/day Weekly Composite E, U, D
Total Suspended Solids 133.0 lb/day 266.0 lb/day Weekly Composite E, U, D
Settleable Solids Weekly Grab E
Turbidity2 Weekly Grab E, U, D
pH3 Weekly Grab E, U, D
Chlorides4 Quarterly Composite E
Chronic Toxicity5 Quarterly Composite E
Notes:
1. Sample locations: E- Effluent, I- Influent, U-At least 50 feet upstream of outfall, D-
At least 300 feet downstream of outfall. Instream samples shall be grab samples
and shall be conducted weekly.
2. This discharge shall not cause the turbidity of the receiving waters to exceed 10
NTU. If the turbidity exceeds 10 NTU due to natural conditions, the discharge
shall not cause any increase in turbidity in the receiving stream. See Special
Condition A.(4).
3. The pH shall not be less than 6.0 standard units nor greater than 10.0 standard
units.
4. Chloride shall be monitored quarterly during the same months as toxicity testing.
5. Chronic Toxicity (Ceriodaphnia) Pass/Fail at 2.0%: January, April, July and
October. See Special Conditions A (2).
x.
There shall be no discharge of floating solids or visible foam in other than trace
amounts. j�a
of
3 .

Permit Number: NCO084620
A..(2). CHRONIC TOXICITY PERMIT LDIIT(QRTRLY)
The effluent discharge shall at no time exhibit observable inhibition of reproduction or significant
mortality to Ceriodaphnia dubia at an effluent concentration of 2.0%.
The permit holder shall perform at a minimum,quarterll monitoring using test procedures outlined in
the"North Carolina Ceriodaphnia Chronic Effluent Bioassay Procedure,"Revised February 1998,or
subsequent versions or"North Carolina Phase H Chronic Whole Effluent Toxicity Test Procedure"
(Revised-February 1998)or subsequent versions.The tests will be performed during the months of
January,April,July and October. Effluent sampling for this testing shall be.performed at the NPDES
permitted final effluent discharge below all treatment processes.
If the test procedure performed as the first test of any single quarter results in a failure or ChV below
the permit limit,then multiple-concentration testing shall be performed at a minimum,in each of the
two following months as described in"North Carolina Phase II Chronic Whole Effluent Toxicity Test
Procedure"(Revised-February 1998)or subsequent versions.
The chronic value for multiple concentration tests will be determined using the geometric mean of the
highest concentration having no detectable impairment of reproduction or survival and the lowest
concentration that does have a detectable impairment of reproduction or survival. The definition of
"detectable impairment,"collection methods,exposure regimes,and further statistical methods are
specified in the"North Carolina Phase II Chronic Whole Effluent Toxicity Test Procedure" (Revised-
February 1998)or subsequent versions.
All toxicity testing results required as part of this'permit condition will be entered on the Effluent
Discharge Monitoring Form(MR-1)for the months in which tests were performed.If reporting pass/fail
results using the parameter code TGP3B,DWQ Form AT-1(original)is sent to the below address. If
reporting Chronic Value results using the parameter code THP3B,.DWQ Form AT-3(original)is to be
sent to the following address:
Attention: NCDENR/DWQ/Environmental Sciences Section
1621 Mail Service Center
Raleigh,North Carolina 27699-1621
Completed Aquatic Toxicity Test Forms shall be filed with the Environmental Sciences Section no later
than 30 days after the end of the reporting period for which the report is made.
Test data shall be complete,accurate,include all supporting chemical/physical measurements and all
concentration/response data,and be certified by laboratory supervisor and ORC or approved designate
signature. Total residual chlorine of the effluent toxicity sample must be measured and reported if
chlorine is employed for disinfection of the waste stream.
Should there be no discharge of flow from the facility during a month in which toxicity monitoring is
required,the permittee will complete the information located at the top of the aquatic toxicity(AT)test
form indicating the facility name,permit number,pipe number,county,and the month/year of the
report with the notation of"No Flow"in the comment area of the form. The report shall be submitted to
the Environmental Sciences Section at the address cited above.
Should the permittee fail to monitor during a month in which toxicity monitoring is required,
monitoring will be required during the following month.
Should any test data from this monitoring requirement or tests performed by the North Carolina
Division of Water Quality indicate potential impacts to the receiving stream,this permit may be re-
opened and modified to include alternate monitoring requirements or limits.
4.

Permit Number: NCO084620
A. (2). CHRONIC TOXICITY PERMIT LIMIT(QRTRLY)(coat.)
If the.Permittee monitors any pollutant more frequently than required by this permit,the results of such
monitoring shall be included in the calculation and reporting of the data submitted on the DMR and all
AT Forms submitted.
NOTE: Failure to achieve test conditions as specified in the cited document,such as minimum
control organism survival,minimum control organism reproduction,and appropriate environmental
controls,shall constitute an invalid test and will require immediate follow-up testing to be completed
no later than the last day of the month following the month of the initial monitoring.
A. (3). BIOCIDES
The permittee.shall not use any biocides except those approved in conjunction with the
permit application. The permittee shall notify the Director in writing not later than ninety
(90) days prior to instituting use of any additional biocide used in cooling systems,which
may be toxic to aquatic life other than those previously reported to the Division of Water
Quality. Such notification shall include completion of Biocide Worksheet Form 101 and a
map locating the discharge point and receiving stream.
A. (4). TURBIDITY REOPENER
In the event that violations of the turbidity standard of the North Carolina Water Quality
Standards occur as a result of this discharge,this permit shall be modified,or alternately,
revoked and reissued to incorporate limitations sufficient to protect the receiving waters.
A. (5): SOLIDS DISPOSAL
Solids removed or resulting from the wastewater treatment process shall.be contained and
disposed of in such a manner as to prevent any contamination of the surface waters of the
State.
A. (6). FLUORIDE (WATER QUALITY STANDARD) REOPENER
This permit shall be modified,or revoked and reissued to incorporate new fluoride effluent
limitations in the event that acute or chronic bioassay testing or other studies results in a
change in the North Carolina Water Quality Standard for fluoride.
A. (7). FLUORIDE (PRODUCTION CHANGE) REOPENER
This permit may be modified,or revoked and reissued to incorporate.new limitations in the
event that production changes are requested or should any new fluoride using discharge
request to locate on the North Toe River.
5

Permit Number: NC0084620
A.(8). ADDITIONAL NOTIFICATION AND MONITORING (RELIABILITY)
REQUIREMENTS
The following measures will be taken in lieu of providing an additional thickener: Unimin
Corporation Crystal Operation will notify the Asheville Regional Office,Telephone (828)
296-4500,prior to taking any wastewater treatment unit out of service,if such action could
result in non-retention of inadequately treated effluent or an out of compliance discharge.
Whenever arty unit is removed from service,whether for maintenance or due to failure of
the unit,the Company shall immediately institute daily monitoring for Total Suspended
Solids and Fluorides (in addition to the parameters normally monitored on a daily basis).
The Company will cease all wastewater related manufacturing operations until such time as
the wastewater treatment unit is operational,whenever the wastewater treatment system
can no longer adequately treat or store the wastewater,so as to prevent an out of
compliance discharge.
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NPDES Permit Standard Conditions
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PART II
STANDARD CONDITIONS-FOR NPDES PERMITS
Section A. Definitions
2/Month
Samples are collected twice per month with at least ten calendar days between sampling events.These samples shall be
representative of the wastewater discharged during the sample period.
3/Week
Samples are collected three times per week on three separate calendar days. These samples shall be representative of
the wastewater discharged during the sample period.
Act or"the Act"
The Federal Water Pollution Control Act,also known as the Clean Water Act(CWA),as amended,33 USC 1251,et.
seq.
Annual Average
The arithmetic mean of all."daily discharges" of a pollutant measured during the calendar year.In the case of fecal
coliform,the geometric mean of such discharges.
Arithmetic Mean
The summation of the individual values divided by the number of individual values.
Bypass
The known diversion of waste streams from any portion of a treatment facility including the collection system,which is
not a designed or established or operating mode for the facility.
Calendar Day
The period from midnight of one day until midnight of the next day.However,for purposes of this permit,any
consecutive 24-hour period that reasonably represents the calendar day may be used for sampling.
Calendar Week
The period from Sunday through the following Saturday.
Calendar Quarter
One of the following distinct periods:January through March,April through June,July through September,and
October through December.
Composite Sample
A sample collected over a 24-hour period by continuous sampling or combining grab samples of at least 100 mL in
such a manner as to result in a total sample representative of the wastewater discharge during the sample period.The
Director may designate the most appropriate method(specific number and size of aliquots necessary,the time interval
between grab samples,etc.)on a case-by-case basis. Samples may be collected manually or automatically. Composite
samples may be obtained by the following methods:
(1) Continuous: a single,continuous sample collected over a 24-hour period proportional to the rate of flow.
(2) Constant time/variable volume: a series of grab samples collected at equal time intervals over a 24 hour period
of discharge and combined proportional to the rate of flow measured at the time of individual sample
collection,or
(3) Variable time/constant volume: a series of grab samples of equal volume collected over a 24 hour period with
the time intervals between samples determined by a preset number of gallons passing the sampling point.Flow
measurement between sample intervals shall be determined by use of a flow recorder and totalizer,and the
preset gallon interval between sample collection fixed at no greater than 1/24 of the expected total daily flow at
the treatment system,or
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(4) Constant time/constant volume: a series of grab samples of equal volume collected over a 24-hour period at a
constant time interval.Use of this method requires prior approval by the Director. This method may only be
used in situations where effluent flow rates vary less than 15 percent. The following restrictions also apply:
➢ Influent and effluent grab samples shall be of equal size and of no less than 100 milliliters
➢ Influent samples shall not be collected more than once per hour.
➢ Permittees with wastewater treatment systems whose detention time<24 hours shall collect effluent grab
samples at intervals of no greater than 20 minutes apart during any 24-hour period.
➢ Permittees with wastewater treatment systems whose detention time exceeds 24 hours shall collect effluent
grab samples at least every six hours;there must be a minimum of four samples during a 24-hour sampling
period.
Continuous flow measurement
Flow monitoring that occurs without interruption throughout the operating hours of the facility. Flow shall be
monitored continually except for the infrequent times when there may be no flow or for infrequent maintenance
activities on the flow device.
Daily Discharge
The discharge of a pollutant measured during a calendar day or any 24-hour period that reasonably represents the
calendar day for purposes of sampling. For pollutants measured in units of mass,the "daily discharge"is calculated as
the total mass of the pollutant discharged over the day. For pollutants expressed in other units of measurement,the
"daily discharge"is calculated as the average measurement of the pollutant over the day. (40 CFR 122.2;see also
"Composite Sample,"above.)
Daily Maximum
The highest"daily discharge"during the calendar month.
Daily Sampling
Parameters requiring daily sampling shall be sampled 5 out of every 7 days per week unless otherwise specified in the
permit. Sampling shall be conducted on weekdays except where holidays or other disruptions of normal operations
prevent weekday sampling. If sampling is required for all seven days of the week for any permit parameter(s),that
requirement will be so noted on the Effluent Limitations and Monitoring Page(s).
DWQ or"the Division"
The Division of Water Quality,Department of Environment and Natural Resources.
Effluent
Wastewater discharged following all treatment processes from a water pollution control facility or other point source
whether treated or untreated.
EMC
The North Carolina Environmental Management Commission
EPA
The United States Environmental Protection Agency
Facility Closure
Cessation of all activities that require coverage under this NPDES permit. Completion of facility closure will allow this
permit to be rescinded.
Geometric Mean
The Nth root of the product of the individual values where N=the number of individual values.For purposes of
calculating the geometric mean,values of"0"(or"< [detection level]") shall be considered= 1.
Grab Sample
Individual samples of at least 100 mL collected over a period of time not exceeding 15 minutes. Grab samples can be
collected manually. Grab samples must be representative of the discharge(or the receiving stream,for instream
samples).
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Hazardous Substance
Any substance designated under 40 CFR Part 116 pursuant to Section 311 of the CWA.
Instantaneous flow measurement
The flow measured during the minimum time required for the flow measuring device or method to produce a result in
that instance. To the extent practical,instantaneous flow measurements coincide with the collection of any grab
samples required for the same sampling period so that together the samples and flow are representative of the discharge
during that sampling period.
Monthly Average(concentration limit)
The arithmetic mean of all"daily discharges"of a pollutant measured during the calendar month.In the case of fecal
coliform or other bacterial parameters or indicators,the geometric mean of such discharges.
Permit Issuing Authority
The Director of the Division of Water Quality.
Quarterly Average(concentration limit)
The arithmetic mean of all samples taken over a calendar quarter.
Severe property damage
Substantial physical damage to property,damage to the treatment facilities which causes them to become inoperable,or
substantial and permanent loss of natural resources which can reasonably be expected to occur in the absence of a
bypass. Severe property damage excludes economic loss caused by delays in production.
Toxic Pollutant:
Any pollutant listed as toxic under Section 307(a)(1)of the CWA.
Upset
An incident beyond the reasonable control of the Permittee causing unintentional and temporary noncompliance with
permit effluent limitations and/or monitoring requirements.An upset does not include noncompliance caused by
operational error,improperly designed treatment facilities,inadequate treatment facilities,lack of preventive
maintenance,or careless or improper operation.
Weekly Average(concentration limit)
The arithmetic mean of all"daily discharges"of a pollutant measured during the calendar week. In the case of fecal
coliform or other bacterial parameters or indicators,the geometric mean of such discharges.
Section B. General Conditions
1. Duty to Comply
The Permittee must comply with all conditions of this permit.Any permit noncompliance constitutes a violation of
the CWA and is grounds for enforcement action;for permit termination,revocation and reissuance,or
modification;or denial of a permit renewal application[40 CFR 122.41].
a. The Permittee shall comply with effluent standards or prohibitions established under section 307(a)of the
CWA for toxic pollutants and with standards for sewage sludge use or disposal established under section
405(d)of the CWA within the time provided in the regulations that establish these standards or prohibitions or
standards for sewage sludge use or disposal, even if the permit has not yet been modified to incorporate the
requirement.
b. The CWA provides that any person who violates section[s] 301, 302,306,307,308,318 or 405 of the Act, or
any permit condition or limitation implementing any such sections in a permit issued under section 402,or any
requirement imposed in a pretreatment program approved under sections 402(a)(3)or 402(b)(8)of the Act,is
subject to a civil penalty not to exceed$37,500 per day for each violation. [33 USC IM9(d)and 40 CFR
122.41(a)(2)]
c. The CWA provides that any person who negligently violates sections 301, 302,306,307,308,318,or 405 of
the Act,or any condition or limitation implementing any of such sections in a permit issued under section 402
of the Act,or any requirement imposed in a pretreatment program approved under section 402(a)(3)or
402(b)(8)of the Act,is subject to criminal penalties of$2,500 to$25,000 per day of violation,or
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imprisonment of not more than 1 year,or both.In the case of a second or subsequent conviction for a negligent
violation, a person shall be subject to criminal penalties of not more than$50,000 per day of violation, or by
imprisonment of not more than 2 years, or both. [33 USC 1319(c)(1)and 40 CFR 122.41(a)(2)]
d. Any person who knowingly violates such sections,or such conditions or limitations is subject to criminal
penalties of$5,000 to$50,000 per day of violation,or imprisonment for not more than 3 years,or both.In the
case of a second or subsequent conviction for a knowing violation, a person shall be subject to criminal
penalties of not more than$100,000 per day of violation, or imprisonment of not more than 6 years,or both.
[33 USC 1319(c)(2)and 40 CFR 122.41(a)(2)]
e. Any person who knowingly violates section 301,302,303, 306, 307,308,318 or 405 of the Act,or any permit
condition or limitation implementing any of such sections in a permit issued under section 402 of the Act,and
who knows at that time that he thereby places another person in imminent danger of death or serious bodily
injury,shall,upon conviction,be subject to a fine of not more than$250,000 or imprisonment of not more than
15 years,or both. In the case of a second or subsequent conviction for a knowing endangerment violation, a
person shall be subject to a fine of not more than$500,000 or by imprisonment of not more than 30 years,or
both.An organization, as defined in section 309(c)(3)(B)(iii) of the CWA,shall,upon conviction of violating
the imminent danger provision,be subject to a fine of not more than$1,000,000 and can be fined up to
$2,000,000 for second or subsequent convictions. [40 CFR 122.41(a)(2)]
f. Under state law,a civil penalty of not more than$25,000 per violation may be assessed against any person
who violates or fails to act in accordance with the terms, conditions,or requirements of a permit. [North
Carolina General Statutes § 143-215.6A]
g. Any person may be assessed an administrative penalty by the Administrator for violating section 301, 302,
306, 307, 308,318 or 405 of this Act,or any permit condition or limitation implementing any of such sections
in a permit issued under section 402 of this Act.Administrative penalties for Class I violations are not to
exceed$16,000 per violation,with the maximum amount of any Class I penalty assessed not to exceed
$37,500.Penalties for Class Il violations are not to exceed$16,000 per day for each day during which the
violation continues,with the maximum amount of any Class II penalty not to exceed$177,500. [33 USC
1319(g)(2) and 40 CFR 122.41(a)(3)]
2. Duty to Mitigate
The Permittee shall take all reasonable steps to minimize or prevent any discharge or sludge use or disposal in
violation of this permit with a reasonable likelihood of adversely affecting human health or the environment[40
CFR 122.41(d)].
3. Civil and Criminal Liability
Except as provided in permit conditions on'Bypassing"(Part II.C.4),"Upsets"(Part II.C.5)and"Power Failures"
(Part II.C.7),nothing in this permit shall be construed to relieve the Permittee from any responsibilities,liabilities,
or penalties for noncompliance pursuant to NCGS 143-215.3, 143-215.6 or Section 309 of the Federal Act,33 USC
1319.Furthermore,the Permittee is responsible for consequential damages,such as fish kills, even though the
responsibility for effective compliance may be temporarily suspended.
4. Oil and Hazardous Substance Liability
Nothing in this permit shall be construed to preclude the institution of any legal action or relieve the Permittee
from any responsibilities, liabilities, or penalties to which the Permittee is or may be subject to under NCGS 143-
215.75 et seq. or Section 311 of the Federal Act, 33 USG 1321.Furthennore,the Permittee is responsible for
consequential damages, such as fish kills, even though the responsibility for effective compliance may be
temporarily suspended.
5. Property Rights
The issuance of this permit does not convey any property rights in either real or personal property,or any exclusive
privileges,nor does it authorize any injury to private property or any invasion of personal rights,nor any
infringement of Federal, State or local laws or regulations [40 CFR 122.41(g)].
6. Onshore or Offshore Construction
This permit does not authorize or approve the construction of any onshore or offshore physical structures or
facilities or the undertaking of any work in any navigable waters.
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7. Severability
The provisions of this permit are severable.If any provision of this permit,or the application of any provision of
this permit to any circumstances,is held invalid,the application of such provision to other circumstances,and the
remainder of this permit,shall not be affected thereby[NCGS 15013-231.
8. Duty to Provide Information
The Permittee shall furnish to the Permit Issuing Authority,within a reasonable time, any information which the
Permit Issuing Authority may request to determine whether cause exists for modifying,revoking and reissuing,or
terminating this permit or to determine compliance with this permit.The Permittee shall also furnish to the Permit.
Issuing Authority upon request,copies of records required by this permit[40 CFR 122.41(h)].
9. Duty to Reapply
If the Permittee wishes to continue an activity regulated by this permit.after the expiration date of this permit,the
Permittee must apply for and obtain a new permit[40 CFR 122.41(b)].
10. Expiration of Permit
The Permittee is not authorized to discharge after the expiration date.In order to receive automatic authorization to
discharge beyond the expiration,date,the Permittee shall submit such information,forms,.and fees as are required
by the agency authorized to issue permits no later than 180 days prior to the expiration date unless permission for a
later date has been granted by the Director. (The Director shall not grant permission for applications to be
submitted later than the expiration date of the existing permit.) [40 CFR 122.21(d)]Any Permittee that has not
requested renewal at least 180 days prior to expiration,or any Permittee that does not have a permit after the
expiration and has not requested renewal at least 180 days prior to expiration,will subject the Permittee to
enforcement procedures as provided inNCGS 143-215.6 and 33 USC 1251 et. seq.
^`t 11. Signatory Requirements
` All applications,reports,or information submitted to the Permit Issuing Authority shall be signed and certified[40
CFR 122.41(k)].`
a. All permit applications shall be signed as follows:
(1) For a corporation: by a responsible corporate officer.For the purpose of this Section,a responsible
a corporate officer means: (a)a president,secretary,treasurer or vice president of the corporation in charge
of a principal business function,or any other person who performs similar policy or decision making
functions for the corporation,or(b)the manager of one or more manufacturing,production, or operating
facilities,provided,the manager is authorized to make management decisions which govern the operation
of the regulated facility including having the explicit or implicit duty of making major capital investment
recommendations,and initiating and directing other comprehensive measures to assure long term
environmental compliance with environmental laws and regulations;the manager can ensure that the
necessary systems are established or actions taken to gather complete and accurate information for permit
application requirements;and where authority to sign documents has been assigned or delegated to the
manager in accordance with corporate procedures .
(2) For a partnership or sole proprietorship: by a general partner or the proprietor,respectively; or
(3) For a municipality, State,Federal,or other public agency: by either a principal executive officer or
ranking elected official[40 CFR 122.22].
b. All reports required by the permit and other information requested by the Permit Issuing Authority shall be
signed by a person described in paragraph a. above or by a duly authorized representative of that person.A
person is a duly authorized representative only if:
(1) The authorization is made in writing by a person described above;
(2) The authorization specified either an individual or a position having responsibility for the overall operation
of the regulated facility or.activity,such as the position of plant manager, operator of a well or well field,
superintendent,a position of equivalent responsibility, or an individual or position having overall
responsibility for environmental matters for the company. (A duly authorized representative may thus be
either a named individual or any individual occupying a named position.); and
(3) The written authorization is submitted to the Permit Issuing Authority[40 CFR 122.221
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c. Changes to authorization: If an authorization under paragraph(b)of this section is no longer accurate because
a different individual or position has responsibility for the overall operation of the facility, a new authorization
satisfying the requirements of paragraph(b)of this section must be submitted to the Director prior to or
together with any reports,information, or applications to be signed by an authorized representative [40 CFR
122.22]
d. Certification.Any person signing a document under paragraphs a. or b. of this section shall make the following
certification[40 CFR 122.221.NO OTHER STATEMENTS OF CERTIFICATION WILL BE ACCEPTED:
7 certify, under penalty of law, that this document and all attachments were prepared under my direction or
supervision in accordance with a system designed to assure that qualified personnel properly gather and
evaluate the information submitted.Based on my inquiry of the person or persons who manage the system, or
those persons directly responsible for gathering the information, the information submitted is, to the best of my
knowledge and belief, true, accurate, and complete.I am aware that there are significant penalties for
submitting false information, including the possibility of fines and imprisonment for knowing violations."
12. Permit Actions
This permit may be modified,revoked and reissued,or terminated for cause. The filing of a request by the
Permittee for a permit modification,revocation and reissuance, or termination,or a notification of planned changes
or anticipated noncompliance does not stay any permit condition[40 CFR 122.41(f)].
13. Permit Modification,Revocation and Reissuance,or Termination
The issuance of this permit does not prohibit the permit issuing authority from reopening and modifying the permit,
revoking and reissuing the permit,or terminating the permit as allowed by the laws,rules, and regulations
contained in Title 40, Code of Federal Regulations,Parts 122 and 123;Title 15A of the North Carolina
Administrative Code, Subchapter 02H.0100; and North Carolina General Statute 143.215.1 et. al.
14. Annual Administering and Compliance Monitoring Fee Requirements
The Permittee must pay the annual administering and compliance monitoring fee within thirty days after being
billed by the Division. Failure to pay the fee in a timely manner in accordance with 15A NCAC 02H.0105(b)(2)
may cause this Division to initiate action to revoke the permit.
Section C. Operation and Maintenance of Pollution Controls
1. Certified Operator
Owners of classified water pollution control systems must designate operators,certified by the Water Pollution
Control System Operators Certification Commission(WPCSOCC),of the appropriate type and grade for the
system, and,for each classification must[T15A NCAC 08G .0201]:
a. designate one Operator In Responsible Charge(ORC)who possesses a valid certificate of the type and grade at
least equivalent to the type and grade of the system;
b. designate one or more Back-up Operator(s)in Responsible Charge(Back-up ORCs)who possesses a valid
certificate of the type of the system and no more than one grade less than the grade of the system,with the
exception of no backup operator in responsible charge is required for systems whose minimum visitation
requirements are twice per year;and
c. submit a signed completed"Water Pollution Control System Operator Designation Form"to the Commission
(or to the local health department for owners of subsurface systems)countersigned by the designated certified
operators, designating the Operator in Responsible Charge(ORC)and the Back-up Operator in Responsible
Charge(Back-up ORC):
(1) 60 calendar days prior to wastewater or residuals being introduced into a new system; or
(2) within 120 calendar days following:
➢ receiving notification of a change in the classification of the system requiring the designation of a new
Operator in Responsible Charge(ORC)and Back-up Operator in Responsible Charge(Back-up ORC)
of the proper type and grade;or
➢ a vacancy in the position of Operator in Responsible Charge(ORC)or Back-up Operator in
Responsible Charge(Back-up ORC).
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(3) within seven calendar days of vacancies in both ORC and Back-up ORC positions replacing or designating
at least one of the responsibilities.
The ORC of each Class I facility(or the Back-up ORC,when acting as surrogate for the ORC)must:
➢ Visit the facility as often as is necessary to insure proper operation of the treatment system;the treatment
facility must be visited at least weekly
➢ Comply with all other conditions of 15A NCAC 08G.0204.
The ORC of each Class 11,III and IV facility(or the Back-up ORC,when acting as surrogate for the ORC)must:
➢ Visit the facility as often as is necessary to insure proper operation of the treatment system;the treatment
facility must be visited at least five days per week, excluding holidays
➢ Properly manage and document daily operation and maintenance of the facility
➢ Comply with all other conditions of 15A NCAC 08G .0204.
2. Proper Operation and Maintenance
The Permittee shall at all times properly operate and maintain all facilities and systems of treatment and control
(and related appurtenances)which are installed or used by the Permittee to achieve compliance with the conditions
of this permit.Proper operation and maintenance also includes adequate laboratory controls and appropriate quality
assurance procedures.This provision requires the Permittee to install and operate backup or auxiliary facilities only
when necessary to achieve compliance with the conditions of the permit[40 CFR 122.41(e)].
NOTE: Properly and officially designated operators are fully responsible for all proper operation and maintenance
of the facility, and all documentation required thereof,whether acting as a contract operator[subcontractor] or a
member of the Permittee's staff.
3. Need to Halt or Reduce not a Defense
k; It shall not bc'a defense for a Permittee in an enforcement action that it would have been necessary to halt or
reduce the permitted activity in order to maintain compliance with the condition of this permit[40 CFR 122.41(c)].
4. Bypassing of Treatment Facilities
a. Bypass not exceeding limitations [40 CFR 122.41(m)(2)]
The Permittee may allow any bypass to occur which does not cause effluent limitations to be exceeded,but
only if it also is for essential maintenance to assure efficient operation. These bypasses are not subject to the
provisions of Paragraphs b.and c. of this section.
b. Notice[40 CFR 122.41(rn)(3)]
(1) Anticipated bypass.If the Permittee knows in advance of the need for a bypass,it shall submit prior notice,
if possible at least ten days before the date of the bypass;including an evaluation of the anticipated quality
and effect of the bypass.
(2) Unanticipated bypass.The Permittee shall submit notice of an unanticipated bypass as required in Part
II.E.6. (24=hour notice).
c. Prohibition of Bypass
(1) Bypass from the treatment facility is prohibited and the Permit Issuing Authority may take enforcement
action against a Permittee for bypass,unless:
(A) Bypass was unavoidable to prevent loss of life,personal injury or severe property damage;
(B) There were no feasible alternatives to the bypass,such as the use of auxiliary treatment-facilities,
retention of untreated wastes or maintenance during normal periods of equipment downtime. This
condition is not satisfied if adequate backup equipment should have been installed in the exercise of
reasonable engineering judgment to prevent a bypass which occurred during normal periods of
equipment downtime or preventive maintenance; and
(C) The Permittee submitted notices as required under Paragraph b.:of this section.
(2) Bypass from the collection system is prohibited and the Permit Issuing Authority may take enforcement
action against a Permittee for a bypass as provided in any current or future system-wide collection system
permit associated with the treatment facility.
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(3) The Permit Issuing Authority may approve an anticipated bypass, after considering its adverse effects,if
the Permit Issuing Authority determines that it will meet the three conditions listed above in Paragraph c.
(1)of this section.
5. Upsets
a. Effect of an upset[40 CFR 122.41(n)(2)]: An upset constitutes an affirmative defense to an action brought for
noncompliance with such technology based permit effluent limitations if the requirements of paragraph b. of
this condition are met.No determination made during administrative review of claims that noncompliance was
caused by upset,and before an action for noncompliance,is final administrative action subject to judicial
review.
b. Conditions necessary for a demonstration of upset: Any Permittee who wishes to establish the affirmative
defense of upset shall demonstrate,through properly signed, contemporaneous operating logs,or other relevant
evidence that:
(1)An upset occurred and that the Permittee can identify the cause(s)of the upset;
(2)The Permittee facility was at the time being properly operated;and
(3)The Permittee submitted notice of the upset as required in Part II.E.6.(b)of this permit.
(4)The Permittee complied with any remedial measures required under Part H.B.2. of this permit.
c. Burden of proof[40 CFR 122.41(n)(4)]: The Permittee seeking to establish the occurrence of an upset has
the burden of proof in any enforcement proceeding.
6. Removed Substances
Solids,sludges,filter backwash,or other pollutants removed in the course of treatment or control of wastewaters
shall be utilized/disposed of in accordance with NCGS 143-215.1 and in a manner such as to prevent any pollutant
from such materials from entering waters of the State or navigable waters of the United States except as permitted
by the Commission.The Permittee shall comply with all applicable state and Federal regulations governing the
disposal of sewage sludge,including 40 CFR 503, Standards for the Use and Disposal of Sewage Sludge;40 CFR
Part 258,Criteria For Municipal Solid Waste Landfills;and 15A NCAC Subchapter 2T,Waste Not Discharged To
Surface Waters.The Permittee shall notify the Permit Issuing Authority of any significant change in its sludge use
or disposal practices.
7. Power Failures
The Permittee is responsible for maintaining adequate safeguards(as required by 15A NCAC 021-1.0124)to
prevent the discharge of untreated or inadequately treated wastes during electrical power failures either by means
of alternate power sources, standby generators or retention of inadequately treated effluent.
Section D. Monitoring and Records
1. Representative Sampling
Samples collected and measurements taken,as required herein, shall be,representative of the permitted discharge.
Samples collected at a frequency less than daily shall be taken on a day and time that is representative of the
discharge for the period the sample represents.All samples shall be taken at the monitoring points specified in this
permit and,unless otherwise specified,before the effluent joins or is diluted by any other wastestream,body of
water, or substance.Monitoring points shall not be changed without notification to and the approval of the Permit
Issuing Authority[40 CFR 122.410)].
2. Reporting.
Monitoring results obtained during the previous month(s)shall be summarized for each month and reported on a
monthly Discharge Monitoring Report(DMR)Form(MR 1, 1.1,2,3)or alternative forms approved by the
Director,postmarked no later than the last calendar day of the month following the completed reporting period.
The first DMR is due on the last day of the month following the issuance of the permit or in the case of a new
facility,on the last day of the month following the commencement of discharge.Duplicate signed copies of these,
and all other reports required herein,shall be submitted to the following address:
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NC DENR/Division of Water Quality/Surface Water Protection Section
ATTENTION: Central Files
1617 Mail Service Center
Raleigh,North Carolina 27699-1617
3. Flow Measurements
Appropriate flow measurement devices and methods consistent with accepted scientific practices shall be selected
and used.to ensure the accuracy and reliability of measurements of the volume of monitored discharges.The
devices shall be installed,calibrated and maintained to ensure that the accuracy of the measurements is consistent
with the accepted capability of that type of device.Devices selected shall be capable of measuring flows with a
maximum deviation of less than 10%from the true discharge rates throughout the range of expected discharge
volumes.Flow measurement devices shall be accurately calibrated at a minimum of once per year and maintained
to ensure that the accuracy of the measurements is consistent with the accepted capability of that type of device.
The Director shall approve the flow measurement device and monitoring location prior to installation.
Once-through condenser cooling water flow monitored by pump logs,or pump hour meters as specified in Part I of
this permit and based on the manufacturer's pump curves shall not be subject to this requirement.
4. Test Procedures
Laboratories used for sample analysis must be certified by the Division.Permittees should contact the Division's
Laboratory Certification Section(919 733-3908 or http://portal.ncdenr.org/web/wq/lab/cert)for information
regarding laboratory certifications.
Facilities whose personnel are conducting testing of field-certified parameters only must hold the appropriate field
parameter laboratory certifications.
Test procedures for the analysis of pollutants shall conform to the EMC regulations(published pursuant to NCGS
143-215.63 et. seq.),the Water and Air Quality Reporting Acts,and to regulations published pursuant to Section
304(g), 33 USC 1314,of the CWA(as amended),and 40 CFR 136;or in the case of sludge use or disposal,
approved under 40 CFR 136,unless otherwise specified in 40 CFR 503,unless other test procedures have been
specified in this permit[40 CFR 122.41].
To meet the intent of the monitoring required by this permit,all test procedures must produce minimum detection
and reporting levels that are below the permit discharge requirements and all data generated must be reported down
to the minimum detection or lower reporting level of the procedure. If no approved methods are determined
capable of achieving minimum detection and reporting levels below permit discharge requirements,then the most
sensitive(method with the lowest possible detection and reporting level)approved method must be used.
5. Penalties for Tampering
The CWA provides that any person who falsifies,tampers with,or knowingly renders inaccurate,any monitoring
device or method required to be maintained under this permit shall,upon conviction,be puiiished by a fine of not
more than$10,000 per violation,or by imprisonment for not more than two years per violation,or by both.If a
conviction of a person is for a violation committed after a first conviction of such person under this paragraph,
punishment is a fine of not more than$20,000 per day of violation,or by imprisonment of not more than 4 years,
or both[40 CFR 122.41].
6. Records Retention
Except for records of monitoring information required by this permit related to the Permittee's sewage sludge use
and disposal activities,which shall be retained for a period of at least five years(or longer as required by 40 CFR
503),the Permittee shall retain records of all monitoring information,including:
➢ all calibration and maintenance records
➢ all original strip chart recordings for continuous monitoring instrumentation
➢ copies of all reports required by this permit
➢ copies of all data used to complete the application for this permit
These records or copies shall be maintained for a period of at least 3,years from the date of the sample,
measurement,report or application.This period may be extended by request of the Director at any time[40 CFR
122.41].
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7. Recording Results
For each measurement or sample taken pursuant to the requirements of this permit,the Permittee shall record the
following information[40 CFR 122.411:
a. The date,exact place,and time of sampling or measurements;
b. The individual(s)who performed the sampling or measurements;
c. The date(s)analyses were performed;
d. The individual(s)who performed the analyses;
e. The analytical techniques or methods used; and
f. The results of such analyses.
8. Inspection and Entry
The Permittee shall allow the Director,or an authorized representative(including an authorized contractor acting as
a representative of the Director),upon the presentation of credentials and other documents as may be required by
law,to;
a. Enter,at reasonable times,upon the Permittee's premises where a regulated facility or activity is located or
conducted,or where records must be kept under the conditions of this permit;
b. Have access to and copy, at reasonable times,any records that must be kept under the conditions of this permit;
c. Inspect at reasonable times any facilities, equipment(including monitoring and control equipment),practices,
or operations regulated or required under this permit; and
d. Sample or monitor at reasonable times,for the purposes of assuring permit compliance or as otherwise
authorized by the CWA, any substances or parameters at any location[40 CFR 122.41(i)].
Section E Reporting Requirements
1. Change in Discharge
All discharges authorized herein shall be consistent with the terms and conditions of this permit. The discharge of
any pollutant identified in this permit more frequently than or at a level in excess of that authorized shall constitute
a violation of the permit.
2. Planned Changes
The Permittee shall give notice to the Director as soon as possible of any planned physical alterations or additions
to the permitted facility[40 CFR 122.41(1)].Notice is required only when:
a. The alteration or addition to a permitted facility may meet one of the criteria for new sources at 40 CFR
122.29(b);or
b. The alteration or addition could significantly change the nature or increase the quantity of pollutants
discharged.This notification applies to pollutants subject neither to effluent limitations in the permit,nor to
notification requirements under 40 CFR 122.42(a)(1); or
c. The alteration or addition results in a significant change in the Permittee's sludge use or disposal practices,and
such alteration,addition or change may justify the application of permit conditions that are different from or
absent in the existing permit,including notification of additional use or disposal sites not reported during the
permit application process or not reported pursuant to an approved land application plan.
3. Anticipated Noncompliance
The Permittee shall give advance notice to the Director of any planned changes to the permitted facility or other
activities that might result in noncompliance with the permit[40 CFR 122.41(l)(2)].
4. Transfers
This permit is not transferable to any person without prior written notice to and approval from the Director in
accordance with 40 CFR 122.61.The Director may condition approval in accordance with NCGS 143-215.1,in
particular NCGS 143-215.1(b)(4)b.2., and may require modification or revocation and reissuance of the permit,or
a minor modification,to identify the new permittee and incorporate such other requirements as may be necessary
under the CWA [40 CFR 122.41(1)(3), 122.61] or state statute.
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5. Monitoring Reports
Monitoring results shall be reported at the intervals specified elsewhere in this permit[40 CFR 122.41(1)(4)].
a. Monitoring results must be reported on a Discharge Monitoring Report(DMR)(See Part II.D.2)or forms
provided by the Director for reporting results of monitoring of sludge use or disposal practices.
b. If the Permittee monitors any pollutant more frequently than required by this permit using test procedures
approved under 40 CFR Part 136 and at a sampling location specified in this permit or other appropriate
instrument governing the discharge,the results of such monitoring shall be included in the calculation and
reporting of the data submitted on the DMR.
6. Twenty-four Hour Reporting
a. The Permittee shall report to the Director or the appropriate Regional Office any noncompliance that
potentially threatens public health or the environment.Any information shall be provided orally within 24
hours from the time the Permittee became aware of the circumstances.A written submission shall also be
provided within 5 days of the time the Permittee becomes aware of the circumstances. The written submission
shall contain a description of the noncompliance, and its cause;the period of noncompliance,including exact
dates and times,and if the noncompliance has not been corrected,the anticipated time it is expected to
continue; and steps taken or planned to reduce,eliminate,and prevent reoccurrence of the noncompliance [40
CFR 122.41(1)(6)].
b. The Director may waive the written report on a case-by-case basis for reports under this section if the oral
report has been received within 24 hours.
c. Occurrences outside normal business hours may also be reported to the Division's Emergency Response
personnel at(800)662-7956,[phone] or(919)733-3300.
7. Other Noncompliance
The Permittee shall report all instances of noncompliance not reported under Part H.E.5 and 6. of this permit at the
time monitoring reports are submitted. The reports shall contain the information listed in Part II.E.6. of this permit
[40 CFR 122.41(1)(7)].
8. Other Information
Where the Permittee becomes aware that it failed to submit any relevant facts in a permit application,or submitted
incorrect information in a permit application or in any report to the Director,it shall promptly submit such facts or
information[40 CFR 122.41(1)(8)].
9. Noncompliance Notification
The Permittee shall report by telephone to either the central office or the appropriate regional office of the Division
as soon as possible,but in no case more than 24 hours or on the next working day following the occurrence or first
knowledge of the occurrence of any of the following:
a. Any occurrence at the water pollution control facility which results in the discharge of significant amounts of
wastes which are abnormal in quantity or characteristic, such as the dumping of the contents of a sludge
digester;the known passage of a slug of hazardous substance through the facility; or any other unusual
circumstances.
b. Any process unit failure,due to known or unknown reasons,that render the facility incapable of adequate
wastewater treatment such as mechanical or electrical failures of pumps,aerators,compressors,etc.
c. Any failure of a pumping station,sewer line,or treatment facility resulting in a by-pass without treatment of all
or any portion of the influent to such station or facility.
Persons reporting such occurrences by telephone shall also file a written report within 5 days following first
knowledge of the occurrence.Also see reporting requirements for municipalities in Part W.C.2.c. of this permit.
10. Availability of Reports
Except for data determined to be confidential under NCGS 143-2.15.3 (a)(2)or Section 308 of the Federal Act,33
USC 1318,all reports prepared in accordance with the terms shall be available for public inspection at the offices
of the Division.As required by the Act,effluent data shall not be considered confidential.Knowingly making any
false statement on any such report may result in the imposition of criminal penalties as provided for in NCGS 143-
215.1(b)(2)or in Section 309 of the Federal Act.
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11. Penalties for Falsification of Reports
The CWA provides that any person who knowingly makes any false statement,representation, or certification in
any record or other document submitted or required to be maintained under this permit,including monitoring
reports or reports of compliance or noncompliance shall,upon conviction,be punished by a fine of not more than
$25,000 per violation, or by imprisonment for not more than two years per violation, or by both[40 CFR 122.41].
12. Annual Performance Reports
Permittees who own or operate facilities that collect or treat municipal or domestic waste shall provide an annual
report to the Permit Issuing Authority and to the users/customers served by the Permittee(NCGS 143-215.1C).The
report shall summarize the performance of the collection or treatment system,as well as the extent to which the
facility was compliant with applicable Federal or State laws,regulations and rules pertaining to water quality. The
report shall be provided no later than sixty days after the end of the calendar or.fiscal year,depending upon which
annual period is used for evaluation.
The report shall be sent to:
NC DENR/Division of Water Quality/Surface Water Protection Section
ATTENTION: Central Files
1617 Mail Service Center
Raleigh,North Carolina 27699-1617
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PART III
OTHER REQUIREMENTS
Section A. Construction
a. The Permittee shall not commence construction of wastewater treatment facilities,nor add to the plants treatment
capacity,nor change the treatment process(es)utilized at the treatment plant unless(1)the Division has issued an
Authorization to Construct(AtC)permit or(2)the Permittee is exempted from such AtC permit requirements
under Item b. of this Section.
b. In accordance with NCGS 143-215.l(a5) [SL 2011-3941,no permit shall be required to enter into a contract for the
construction,installation,or alteration of any treatment work or disposal system or to construct,install,or alter any
treatment works or disposal system within the State when the system's or work's principle function is to conduct,
treat,equalize,neutralize, stabilize,recycle,or dispose of industrial waste or sewage from an industrial facility and
the discharge of the industrial waste or sewage is authorized under a permit issued for the discharge of the
industrial waste or sewage into the waters of the State. Notwithstanding the above,the permit issued for the
discharge may be modified if required by federal regulation.
c. Issuance of an AtC will not occur until Final Plans and Specifications for the proposed construction have been
submitted by the Permittee and approved by the Division.
Section B. Groundwater Monitoring
The Permittee shall,upon written notice from the Director,conduct groundwater monitoring as may be required to
determine the compliance of this NPDES permitted facility with the current groundwater standards.
Section C. Changes in Discharges of Toxic Substances
The Permittee shall notify the Permit Issuing Authority as soon as it knows or has reason to believe(40 CFR 122.42):
a: That any activity has occurred or will occur which would result in the discharge,on a routine or frequent basis,of
any toxic pollutant which is not limited in the permit,if that discharge will exceed the highest of the following
"notification levels";
(1) One hundred micrograms per liter(100 µg/L);
(2) Two hundred micrograms per liter(200 µg/L)for acrolein and acrylonitrile;five hundred micrograms per liter
(500 µg/L)for 2,4-dinitrophenol and for 2-methyl-4,6-dinitrophenol; and one milligram per liter(1 mg/L)for
antimony;
(3) Five times the maximum concentration value reported for that pollutant in the permit application.
b. That any activity has occurred or will occur which would result in any discharge,on a non-routine or infrequent
basis,of a toxic pollutant which is not limited in the permit,if that discharge will exceed the highest of the
following"notification levels";
(1) Five hundred micrograms per liter(500 µg/L);
(2) One milligram per liter(1 mg/L)for antimony;
(3) Ten times the maximum concentration value reported for that pollutant in the permit application.
Section D. Facility Closure Requirements
The Permittee must notify the Division at least 90 days prior to the closure of any wastewater treatment system covered
by this permit.The Division may require specific measures during deactivation of the system to prevent adverse
impacts to waters of the State. This permit�cannot be rescinded while any activities requiring this permit continue at the
permitted facility.
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PART IV
SPECIAL CONDITIONS FOR MUNICIPAL FACILITIES
Section A. Definitions
In addition to the definitions in Part 11 of this permit,the following definitions apply to municipal facilities:
Indirect Discharge or Industrial User
Any non-domestic source that discharges wastewater containing pollutants into a POTW regulated under section
307(b), (c)or(d)of the CWA. [40 CFR 403.3 (i)and 0)and 15A NCAC 02H.0903(b)(11)]
Interference
Inhibition or disruption of the POTW treatment processes; operations; or its sludge process,use, or disposal which
causes or contributes to a violation of any requirement of the Permittee's(or any satellite POTW's if different from the
Permittee)NPDES, collection system,or non-discharge permit or prevents sewage sludge use or disposal in
compliance with specified applicable State and Federal statutes,regulations, or permits. [I5A NCAC 02H
.0903(b)(14)]
Pass Through
A discharge which exits the POTW into waters of the State in quantities or concentrations which,alone or with
discharges from other sources,causes a violation,including an increase in the magnitude or duration of a violation, of
the Permittee's(or any satellite POTW's,if different from the Permittee)NPDES, collection system, or non-discharge
permit. [I5A NCAC 02H.0903(b)(23)]
Publicly Owned Treatment Works(POTW)
A treatment works as defined by Section 212 of the CWA,which is owned by a State or local government organization.
This definition includes any devices and systems used in the storage,treatment,recycling and reclamation of municipal
sewage or industrial wastes of a liquid nature.It also includes the collection system,as defined in 15A NCAC 2T
.0402,only if it conveys wastewater to a POTW treatment plant.The term also means the local government
organization,or municipality, as defined in section 502(4)of the CWA,which has jurisdiction over indirect discharges
to and the discharges from such a treatment works.In this context,the organization may be the owner of the POTW
treatment plant or the owner of the collection system into which an indirect discharger discharges. This second type of
POTW may be referred to as a"satellite POTW organization." [15A NCAC 02H.0903(b)(26)]
"Significant Industrial User" or"SIU"
An Industrial User that discharges wastewater into a publicly owned treatment works and that[15A NCAC 02H
.0903(b)(33)]:
1. Discharges an average of 25,000 gallons per day or more of process wastewater to the POTW(excluding sanitary,
noncontact cooling and boiler blowdown wastewaters);or
2. Contributes process wastewater which makes up five percent or more of the NPDES or non-discharge permitted
flow limit or organic capacity of the POTW treatment plant.In this context,organic capacity refers to BOD,TSS
and ammonia; or
3. Is subject to categorical standards under 40 CFR Part 403.6 and 40 CFR Parts 405-471;or
4. Is designated as such by the Permittee on the basis that the Industrial User has a reasonable potential for adversely
affecting the POTW's operation or for violating any pretreatment standard or requirement, or the POTW's effluent
limitations and conditions in its NPDES or non-discharge permit,or to limit the POTW's sludge.disposal options;
5. Subject to approval under 15A NCAC 02H .0907(b),the Permittee may determine that an Industrial User meeting
the criteria in paragraphs 1 or 2 of this definition above has no reasonable potential for adversely affecting the
POTW's operation or for violating any pretreatment standard or requirement,the POTW's effluent limitations and
conditions in its NPDES or non-discharge permit, or to limit the POTW's sludge disposal options,and thus is not a
Significant Industrial User(SILT); or
6. Subject to approval under 15A NCAC 02H .0907(b),the Permittee may determine that an Industrial User meeting
the criteria in paragraph 3 of this definition above meets the requirements of 40 CFR Part 403.3(v)(2)and thus is a
non-significant categorical Industrial User.
Section B. Publicly Owned Treatment Works(POTWs)
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All POTWs must provide adequate notice to the Director of the following[40 CFR 122.42(b)]:
1. Any new introduction of pollutants into the POTW from an indirect discharger,regardless of the means of
transport,which would be subject to section 301 or 306 of CWA if it were directly discharging those pollutants;
and
2. Any substantial change in the volume or character of pollutants being introduced by an indirect discharger as
influent to that POTW at the time of issuance of the permit.
3. For purposes of this paragraph,adequate notice shall include information on(1)the quality and quantity of effluent
introduced into the POTW,and(2)any anticipated impact that may result from the change of the quantity or
quality of effluent to be discharged from the POTW.
Section C. Municipal Control of Pollutants from Industrial Users.
1. Effluent limitations are listed in Part I of this permit. Other pollutants attributable to inputs from Industrial Users
discharging to the POTW may be present in the Permittee's discharge.At such time as sufficient information
becomes available to establish limitations for such pollutants,this permit may be revised to specify effluent
limitations for any or all of such other pollutants in accordance with best practicable technology or water quality
standards.
2. Prohibited Discharges
a. The Permittee.shall develop and enforce their Pretreatment Program to implement the prohibition against.the
introduction of pollutants or discharges into the waste treatment system or waste collection system which
cause or contribute to Pass Through or Interference as defined in 15A NCAC 02H.0900 and 40 CFR 403. [40
CFR 403.5(a)(1)]5
b. The Permittee shall develop and enforce their Pretreatment Program to implement the prohibitions against the
introduction of the following wastes in the-waste treatment or waste collection system[40 CFR 403.5(b)]:
(1) Pollutants which create a fire or explosion hazard in the POTW,including,but not limited to,
wastestreams with a closed cup flashpoint of less than 140 degrees Fahrenheit.or 60 degrees Centigrade
using the test methods specified in 40 CFR 261.21;
(2) Pollutants which cause corrosive structural damage to the POTW,but in no case discharges with pH lower
than 5.0,unless the works is specifically designed to accommodate such discharges;
(3) Solid or viscous pollutants in amounts which cause obstruction to the flow in the POTW resulting in
Interference;
(4) Any pollutant,including oxygen demanding pollutants(BOD, etc.)released in a Discharge at a flow rate
and/or pollutant concentration which will cause Interference with.the POTW;
(5) Heat in amounts which will inhibit biological activity in the POTW resulting in Interference,but in no
case heat in such quantities that the temperature at the POTW Treatment Plant exceeds 40°C(104°F)
unless the Division,upon request of the POTW,approves alternate temperature limits;
(6) Petroleum oil,non-biodegradable cutting oil,or products of mineral oil origin in amounts that will cause
Interference or Pass Through;
(7) Pollutants which result in the presence of toxic gases,vapors,or fumes within the POTW in a quantity that
may cause acute worker health and safety problems; or
(8) Any trucked or hauled pollutants,except at discharge points designated by the POTW.
c. The Permittee shall investigate the source of all discharges into the POTW,including slug loads and other
unusual discharges,which have the potential to adversely impact the Permittee's Pretreatment Program and/or
the operation of the POTW.
The Permittee shall report such discharges into the POTW to the Director or the appropriate Regional Office.
Any information shall be provided orally within 24 hours from the.time the Permittee became aware of the
circumstances.A written submission shall also be provided within 5 days of the time the Permittee becomes
aware of the circumstances.The written submission shall contain a description of the discharge;the
investigation into possible sources;the period of the discharge,including exact dates and times;if the
discharge has not ceased,the anticipated time"it is expected to continue;and steps taken or planned to reduce,
eliminate,and prevent reoccurrence of the noncompliance,
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3. With regard to the effluent requirements listed in Part I of this permit,it may be necessary for the Permittee to
supplement the requirements of the Federal Pretreatment Standards(40 CFR,Part 403)to ensure compliance by
the Permittee with all applicable effluent limitations. Such actions by the Permittee may be necessary regarding
some or all of the industries discharging to the municipal system.
4. The Permittee shall require any Industrial User(IU)discharging to the POTW to meet Federal Pretreatment
Standards developed under Section 307(b) of the Act as amended(which includes categorical standards and
specific local limits,best management practices and narrative requirements).Prior to accepting wastewater from
any Significant Industrial User(SILT),the Permittee shall either develop and submit to the Division a new
Pretreatment Program or,as necessary,a modification of an existing Pretreatment Program,for approval as
required under section D below as well as 15A NCAC 02H.0907(a)and(b). [40 CFR 122.440)(2)]
5. This permit shall be modified, or alternatively,revoked and reissued,to incorporate or modify an approved POTW
Pretreatment Program or to include a compliance schedule for the development of a POTW Pretreatment Program
as required under Section 402(b)(8)of the CWA and implementing regulations or by the requirements of the
approved State pretreatment program,as appropriate.
Section D. Pretreatment Programs
Under authority of sections 307 (b)and(c)and 402(b)(8)of the CWA and implementing regulations 40 CFR 403,
North Carolina General Statute 143-215.3(14)and implementing regulations 15A NCAC 02H.0900,and in accordance
with the approved pretreatment program,all provisions and regulations contained and referenced in the pretreatment
program submittal are an enforceable part of this permit. [40 CFR 122.440)(2)]
The Permittee shall operate its approved pretreatment program in accordance with Section 402(b)(8)of the CWA,40
CFR 403, 15A NCAC 02H.0900,and the legal authorities,policies,procedures,and financial provisions contained in
its pretreatment program submission and Division approved modifications thereof. Such operation shall include but is
not limited to the implementation of the following conditions and requirements. Terms not defined in Part II or Part IV
of this permit are as defined in 15A NCAC 02H .0903 and 40 CFR 403.3.
1. Sewer Use Ordinance(SUO)
The Permittee shall maintain adequate legal authority to implement its approved pretreatment program. [15A
NCAC 02H.0903(b)(32), .0905 and.0906(b)(1);40 CFR 403.8(f)(1)and 403.9(b)(1)and(2)]
2. Industrial Waste Survey(IWS)
The Permittee shall implement an IWS consisting of the survey of users of the POTW collection system or
treatment plant, as required by 40 CFR 403.8(f)(2)(i-iii)and 15A NCAC 02H.0905 [also 40 CFR 122.440)(1)],
including identification of all Industrial Users that may have an impact on the POTW and the character and amount
of pollutants contributed to the POTW by these Industrial Users and identification of those Industrial Users
meeting the definition of SIU.Where the Permittee accepts wastewater from one or more satellite POTWs,the
IWS for the Permittee shall address all satellite POTW services areas,unless the pretreatment program in those
satellite service areas is administered by a separate Permittee with an approved Pretreatment Program. The
Permittee shall submit a summary of its IWS activities to the Division at least once every five years,and as
required by the Division.The IWS submission shall include a summary of any investigations conducted under
paragraph C.2.c. of this Part. [15A NCAC 02H.0903(b)(13), .0905 and.0906(b)(2);40 CFR 403.8(f)(2)and 403.91
3. Monitoring Plan
The Permittee shall implement a Division-approved Monitoring Plan for the collection of facility specific data to
be used in a wastewater treatment plant Headworks Analysis(HWA)for the development of specific pretreatment
local limits.Effluent data from the Plan shall be reported on the DMRs(as required by Parts II.D and II.E.5.). [15A
NCAC 02H.0903(b)(16), .0906(b)(3)and.0905]
4. Headworks Analysis(HWA)and Local Limits
The Permittee shall obtain Division approval of a HWA at least once every five years, and as required by the
Division.Within 180 days of the effective date of this permit(or any subsequent permit modification)the
Permittee shall submit to the Division a written technical evaluation of the need to revise local limits(i.e., an
updated HWA or documentation of why one is not needed) [40 CFR 122.441. The Permittee shall develop,in
accordance with 40 CFR 403.5(c)and 15A NCAC 02H .0909, specific Local Limits to implement the prohibitions
listed in 40 CFR 403.5(a)and(b)and 15A NCAC 02H.0909.Pursuant to 40 CFR 403.5,local limits are
Version 1110912011

NPDES Permit Standard Conditions
Page,17 of 1.8
enforceable Pretreatment Standards as defined by 40'CFR 4033(1). [15A NCAC'0211.0903(b)(10), .0905,and,
.0906(bi)(4)]
5. Industrial User Pretreatment Permits,(WP)&Allocation Tables
In accordance with NCGS 143-215.1, the.Permittee shall issue to all Significant Industrial Users,permits for
operation of pretreatment equipment and discharge to the Perrnittee's collection system or treatment works. These
permits shall contain limitations,sampling protocols,reporting requirements,appropriate standard and special
conditions'and compliance.,schedules as for the installation of treatment and control technologies to
assure that their,wastewater discharge will meet all applicable pretreatment,standards and requirements. The
Permittee,shall maintain a current Allocation Table(AT)which summarizes the results of the HWA and the limits
from all 1UPs-Permitted ITUP loadings for each parameter cannot exceed the treatment capacity,of the POTW as.
determined by the HWA. [15A NCAC 02H,.0906(b)(6),,.0909, .09I6,and.0917,;40 CFR 403.5,403.8(f)(1)(iii)-,
NCGS, 143-215.67(a)]
6. Authorization to Construct(AtC):,
The,Permittee shall ensure that an Authorization to Construct pe t,(AtC)is issued cd to all app
licable industrial
Users for the construction or modification of pretreatment facility.Prior to the issuance of an AtC,the
proposed pretreatment facility and treatment process must be evaluated for its capacity to comply with all
Industrial User Pretreatment,Permit(1UP),limitations.,[I 5A NCAC 02H ,0906(b)(7)and.0905;NCGS 143-
2.15.1(a)(8)]
7. POTW Inspection,&-Monitoring of their lUs
The Permittee shall conduct inspection,surveillance,,and monitoring activities as described in its Division
approved pretreatment program in order to determine,,independent of information supplied by Industrial Users,
compliance The with applicable ], The
pretreatment standards. [15A NCAC,02H.0908(e),- 40 CFR 403:.8(f)(2)(y)
Permittee must:
a. Inspect all Significant,Industrial Users(S'IU§);at least once per calendar year;
b. Sample all Significant Industrial Users(SlUs)at,least once,per calendar year for all SlU permit-limited
parameters T including flow except as allowed under 15A NCAC'.0908(e);and
c. At least once per year,document,an,evaluation of any non-significant,categorical industrial User for
compliance with the requirements in 40 CFR 403.3(v)(2),and,either continue or revoke the designation as non-
significant.
8 IU. .Self Monitoring and Reporting
The Permittee shall require all Industrial Users to comply with,the applicable,monitoring,and reporting
requirements outlined in the Division-approved pretreatment program,the industry's pretreatment permit,or in 15A
NCAC,02H,.0908. [15A NCAC'02HL.0906(b)(5)and.0905';40 CFR 403.8(f)(1)(v)and,(2)(iii);40 CFR
122.440),(2),and 40 CFR 403.12]
9. Enforcement Response Plan(EM)
The Permittee shall enforce:and obtain appropriate remedies,for violations of all pretreatment standards,
'promulgated pursuant to section 3 07(b)and(c)of the CWA(40 CFR 405 et.,seq.),prohibitive discharge standards
,as set forth in 40 CFR,403.5 and 15A NCAC 02H.0909,specific local limitations,,and other pretreatment
requirements.Allremedies, enforcement actions and other; shall be consistent with,the Enforcement,Response
Plan(ERP)approved by the Division. [15A NCAC 02,H..0903(b)(7), .0906(b)(8)and.090.5;40 CFR 4018(f)(5)]
10. Pretreatment Annual Reports(PART
The Permittee shall report to the Division in accordance with 15A NCAC 02H.09-08. In lieu of submitting annual
reports,Modified Pretreatment Programs developed under 15A NCAC 02H .0904(b),Tnay be required,to submit a
partial annual report or to meet with Division personnel periodically to discuss enforcement of pretreatment
requirements and other pretreatment implementation issues.
For all other active pretreatment programs,,the Permittee shall submit two copies of a Pretreatment Annual Report,
(PAR)describing its pretreatment activities over the previous calendar year.to the,Division at the fallowirig
address:
Versian 1110912011

NPDES Permit Standard Conditions,
Page I8,1off9
NC DENR Division of Water Quality Surface Water Protection Section,
Pretreatment,Emergency Response,and Collection Systems(PERCS)Unit
1617 Mail ServiceCenter
Raleigh,North Carolina 27699-1617
These reports shall be submitted by March I of each year and shall contain"the following:
a. -Narrative
A narrative summary detailing actions taken,or proposed,by the Permittee to correct significant non-
compliance and to ensure compliance with pretreatment requirements;
b. Pretreatment Program Summary(PPS)
A pretreatment program summary(PPS)on forms or,in a format provided by the Division;I
e.' Significant Non-Compliance Report(SNCR)
Alist of Industrial Users,(JUs)in significant noncompliance(SNC)with pretreatment requirements;and the
nature of the violations on forms,or in a format provided by the Division;
d. Industrial Data Summar
y Forms(IDSF)
Monitoring data from samples collected by both the POTW and the Significant Industrial Users(SM). These.
analytical results must be,reported on Industrial Data Summary Forms(ID$F)or on other-forms or in a format
provided by the Division;
e. Other Information
Copies,of"the,POTWs allocation table,new or modified enforcement compliance schedules,public notice of
lUs in SNC,a summary of data or other information related to significant noncompliance determinations for
Jus that are not considered SlUs,and any other information,upon request,which in the opinion of the Director
is needed to determine compliance with the pre-treatment implementation requirements of this permit,
11. Public Notice
The Permittee shall publish annually a list of Industrial Users(JUs)that were,in significant noncompliance(SNC)
as defined in the Permitte&&Division-approved'Sewer Use Ordinance with applicable pretreatment requirements
and standards during the previous twelve month period.This list shall be published,within four months,of the
applicable twelve-month period. [15A NCAC 0214.0903(b)(34), .0908(b)(5)and.0905 and 40 CF
R
403.8(f)(2)(viii)]
12. Record Keeping,
The Permittee shall retain for a minimum of three years records of monitoringactivities,and results,,along with
9 -
support information including general records,water quality records,and records of industrial impact on the
POTW and shall retain all other Pretreatment Program records as required by 15A NCAC 02H.0908(f). [I 5A
NCAC 02H.0908(f);40 CFR 403.1,2(o)]
13. Pretreatment Program,Resources,
The Permittee shall maintain adequate funding and qualified personnel to accomplish the objectives of its approved
pretreatment program. and retain a written description of those current levels of inspection. [15A NCAC 02TI
.0906(b)(9)and(10),and.0905;40 CFR 403.8(f)(3),403.9(b)(3)]:
14. Modification to Pretreatment Programs,
Modifications to the approved pretreatment program including but not limited to local limits modifications POTW
monitoring and Monitoring,Plan modifications shall be considered a
of their Significant Industrial Users(SlUs),,
permit modification and shall be governed by 40 CFR 403.18, 15 NCAC 02H.0114 and I 5A, NCAC 02H.0907.
Version 1110912011

Facility name: Unimin Corporation
Permits: WWTP locations: Plant Mqrs/ORC: Telephone #s:
NC0084620 Crystal Operation Sandra Phillips 828-765-1114 x 16
Mitchell Co. Denny Buchanan 828-765-1114 x 21
Jeff Ferguson, PE 828-765-1114 x 13
NC0000361 Schoolhouse Quartz - Mike Vencil 828-765-4251 x 303
Avery Co. Scott Fortner 828-765-4251 x 310
NC000000175 Quartz/Feldspar Doug Myers 828-765-4283 x 1005
Mitchell Co. Steve Wilson, Env Aff Supv
Brian McNeil
NC0085839 Red Hill Quartz Mike Jussilla 828-688-9213 x 2402
Mitchell Co.
Facility information
NPDES permit #: NC0084620 Mitchell County
Facility name: Unimin Corporation - Crystal Operation
Extraction and mineral processing
production facility which produces high
purity quartz
CONFIDENTIAL processes & technology
Primary SIC: 1459 high purity quartz
WWTP class: PC - II
WWTP type: 0.553 MGD mining and material processing plant
consisting of two outfalls: 001 process water
effluent (North Toe River)-& 002 stormwater,
which has never discharged (UT to Grassy
Creek).
The WWTP consists of a primary settling tank;
two flocculation/mix reactor tanks with mixers;
lime feed system (lime [calcium hydroxide

Ca(OH)2] slurry tank with 2 agitators); polymer
feed system (lime & acrylamide Drewfloc 2270
anionic polymer and cationic polymer); 50 ft
diameter circular thickener; Eimco Process
Equipment Company ® drum filters; chemical pH
adjustment using sodium bicarbonate (Na2 COs)
and (rarely used) sulfuric acid (H2SO4); GLI model.
53 ® pH analyzer; ISCO 4210 ultrasonic
continuous flow recorder and totalizer; pump
station with three discharge pumps; and.
emergency holding pond.
Discharge: As of May 31, 2011, Unimin - Crystal Operation
has a separate direct discharge (for outfall 001)
into the North Toe River with a discharge limit of
50 Ibs/day monthly average total fluoride,
concurrently with The Feldspar Corp's
(NPDES NC0000353) allowable total fluoride
reduced by 50 Ibs/day monthly average.
Prior to that time, Unimin — Crystal Operation
discharged via The Feldspar Corp.'s discharge
point.
Annual Average Flow: 0.269 MGD (3 year average flow: 2007-2010)
Facility location: 136 Crystal Drive, (off Carter's Ridge Road -
NCSR 1117), east of NC Hwy 226
Responsible officials: Andrew D. Bradley
Responsible " 's title: Senior Vice-President, Environmental Affairs
Official's location: Unimin Corporation
258 Elm Street; New Canaan, Connecticut 06840
On-site official: Jeffrey S. Ferguson, P.E.
Environmental Engineer (covers several states)
136 Crystal Drive; Spruce Pine; NC 28777
Mailing address: PO Box 588; Spruce Pine, NC 28777

Phone numbers
203-966-8880 Andrew D. Bradley, Unimin Corp. — VP / owner
828-765-4283 Karl Kutchta (kut'-ta) - Crystal Op - Reg Gen Mgr
828-765-0912 " - fax
828-7.65-1114 x 16 Sandra Phillips — Crystal Op - Plant Manger
828-765-1114 x 13 Jeff Ferguson. P.E. — Crystal Op - Engineer
828-765-4755 fax "
828-765-1114 Denny Buchanan - Crystal Op. - ORC
Operator information
WWTP ORC: Denny M. Buchanan — Cert. # 987681 — PC - II
WWTP back-up ORCs: Dane A. Christman — Cert. # 996052 — PC — II
Permit information
Date issued: 6-1-2008
Expiration date: 2-28-2011
Appl rcvd: 9-1-2010
Currently under review: Jackie Nowell
Stream information
Stream: North Toe River
River basin: French Broad River Basin
Sub-basin: 04-03-06
Hydrologic Unit Code:
Stream Index: 7-2-(27.7)
Quad: Spruce Pine, NC
Grid: D 10 NE
Stream classification: C - Trout
Drainage area sq mi: 126
Instream Waste Conc.: 1.3% at 0.360 MGD
2% at 0.553 MGD (permit expansion 11-21-2007)
Chronic Toxicity conc.: 2% (Ceriodaphnia dubia — pass/fail) @ 0.553 MGD
Quarterly: January, April, July & October
Average stream flow: 239 cfs
Summer 7Q10 cfs: 41
Winter 7Q10 cfs: 52
30Q2 cfs:

Other information
Directions: US Hwy 70 in Swannanoa to 1-40 East to US Hwy
70 to US Hwys 221 & 226 in Marion. Proceed to
Spruce Pine via US Hwy 226. Go past Walmart
and turn right onto Carter's Ridge Road at the
Valero Service Station. Turn left onto Crystal
Drive at the Unimin sign.
Notes: Take hard hat, safety glasses, ear plugs and
steel-toed shoes/boots.

Unimin- Unimin-
Quartz School
`j House
Unimin- � 3.6 MGD ��qj Quartz
Red Hill ¢�0 2.16 MGD
0.682
MGD qj
v 19
N`N
o K-T Feldspar 1.73 MGD
North Toe North Toe River
m RiVor
m
n
Unimin- Feldspar 3.5 MGD
Crystal
0.360 MGD
MINE DISCHARGES ON THE NORTH TOE RIVER

MINE DISCHARGES ON NORTH TOE RIVER
River Mile NPDES Permit number
41.5 X NC0000361- Unimin-Schoolhouse Quartz
33.8 NC0000353- The Feldspar Corp.
NC0084620- Unimin-Crystal
31.4 HWY 19
29.2 NC0000400- K-T Feldspar
28.6 NC0000175- Unimin-Quartz
27.5 Ambient monitoring station
21.6 South Toe River junction
6.0 NC0085839- Unimin-Red Hill

N
orth Toe River
000000
Red Hill Quartz Corp
A
South Toe River
Unimin Schoolhouse
E81 OUnimin Quartz
K-T Feldspar
Spruce Pine WWTP
®Spruce Pine WTP
Feld orp
imin Crys
,,003
® NPDES Discharg
Ambient Stations
Impaired Waters
0 2,300 4,600 9,200 Meters
t 1 , 1 1 1 1 1 1 North Toe River

Central Files: APS SWP
09/02/11
Permit Number NCO084620 Permit Tracking Slip
Program Category Status Project Type
NPDES WW In review Renewal
Permit Type Version Permit Classification
Industrial Process&Commercial Wastewater Discharge Individual
Primary Reviewer Permit Contact Affiliation
jackie.nowell Karl Kuchta
Coastal SW Rule PO Box 588
Spruce Pine NC 28777
Permitted Flow
553000
Facility
Facility Name Major/Minor Region
Crystal Operation Minor Asheville
Location Address County
300 Crystal Dr Mitchell
Spruce Pine NC 28777 Facility Contact Affiliation
Denny Buchanan
PO Box 588
Owner Spruce Pine NC 28777
Owner Name Owner Type
Unimin Corporation Non-Government
Owner Affiliation
Andrew G. Bradley
Affairs Environmental VP
258 Elm St
New Canaan CT 06840
Dates/Events
Scheduled
Orig Issue App Received Draft Initiated Issuance Public Notice Issue Effective Expiration
06/14/95 09/01/10
Regulated Activities Reguested/Received Events
Mining&material processing Region comments on draft requested
Region comments on draft received
Outfall 001
Waterbody Name Stream Index Number Current Class Subbasin
North Toe River 7-2-(27.7) C;Tr 04-03-06

OF W A IF9 Michael F.Easley,hlernor
William_G_Ross Jr.,Secretary
C� r North7PMAY
t=of Envir1arme in�t an fi°Na Iral Resources
—'-"'Coleen ullins,Director
Divistcn of Water Quality
April 23, 2008 ® 6 2008
Mr.Andrew G.Bradley WATER QUALITY SECTION
Vice President Environmental Affairs,UniInin Corporation ASHEVILLE REGIONAL OFFICE
P.O.Box 588
Spruce Pine,North Carolina 28777
Subject: Issuance of NPDES Permit NC0084620
Unimin Corporation—Crystal Facility
Mitchell County
Dear Mr.Bradley: .
Division personnel have reviewed and approved your application for modification of the subject permit.
Accordingly, we are forwarding the attached NPDES discharge permit. This permit is issued pursuant to the
requirements of North Carolina General Statute 143-215.1 and the Memorandum of Agreement between North
Carolina and the U.S.Environmental Protection Agency dated October 15,2007(or as subsequently amended).
This final permit includes the following change from your current permit:A monthly average flow limit of
0.553 MGD and a monthly average total suspended solids limit of 133.0 lb/day have been added.
It should be noted that the North Toe River is impaired for turbidity. It is not anticipated that this expansion will
have any further impact on the turbidity in the North Toe River. In the event that the turbidity impairment
worsens as a result of this discharge, this permit shall be modified, or alternatively revoked, and reissued to
incorporate limitations sufficient to protect the receiving waters (see Special Condition A. (4)). Additionally, the
Division may target the North Toe'River for Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) development within the next
two years.
If any parts,measurement frequencies or sampling requirements contained in this permit are unacceptable to you,
you have the right to an adjudicatory hearing upon written request within thirty(30)days following receipt of this
letter.This request must be in the form of a written petition,conforming to Chapter 150B of the North Carolina
General Statutes,and filed with the Office of Administrative Hearings(6714 Mail Service Center,Raleigh,North
Carolina 27699-6714). Unless such demand is made,this decision shall be final and binding.
Please note that this permit is not transferable except after notice to the Division. The Division may require
modification or revocation and reissuance of the permit.
This permit does not affect the legal requirements to obtain other permits which may be required by the Division
of Water Quality or permits required by the Division of Land Resources,the Coastal Area Management Act or
any other Federal or Local governmental permit that may be required. If you have any questions concerning this
permit,please contact Agyeman Adu-Poke at telephone number(919)733-5083,extension 508.
Sincerely,
Coleen H. Sullins
cc: Central Files
NPDES File _
A hs eville-RegionaljOffice/Surface Watef Pfotecti6i
One
EPA Region IV/Marshall Hyatt N9r hcarolma
Aquatic Toxicology Unit atumlly
North Carolina Division of Water Quality 1617 Mail Service Center Raleigh,NC 27699-1617 Phone[phone] Customer Service
Internet: www.ncwaterquality.org Location: 512 N.Salisbury St. Raleigh,NC 27604 Fax [phone]
An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer—50%Recycled/10%Post Consumer Paper

Permit,Number: NC0084620 .
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA,;
DEPARTMENT'OF ENVIRONMENT AND NATURAL RESOURCES
DIVISION OF WATER QUALITY-
PERMIT
TO DISCHARGE WASTEWATER UNDER THE
NATIONAL POLLUTANT DISCHARGE ELIMINATION SYSTEM
In compliance with the provisions of North Carolina General Statute: 143-215.1, other lawful
standards and regulations promulgated 'and adopted by the North Carolina Environmental
Management Commission, and the Federal Water Pollution Control Act,as amended,the
Unimin Corporation.
is hereby authorized to discharge wastewater from a facility located at `
Crystal Operation..
At NCSR 1117, east of NC Highway 226
Southeast of Spruce Pine
Mitchell County .
to receiving waters designated as the North Toe River iri the French Broad River Basin in
accordance with effluent limitations;monitoring requirements,and other conditions set forth in
Parts I,II,III and IV hereof.
This permit shall become effectiveJunel;;20U8 '
This permit and authorization to discharge shall expire at-midnight offt& r iary 28,;2a1
Signed this day April 23,2008:
C7 �l.Etxa�J
fo-doleen H. Sullins, Director
Division of Water Quality
By Authority of the Environmental Management Commission .

Permif Number: NC0084620.. .
SUPPLEMENT TO PERMIT COVER SHEET
`All previous NPDES Permits issued to this' facility, whether for operation or discharge are
hereby revoked, and as. of this issuance, any previously issued permit bearing this number is-no
longer effective. Therefore, the exclusive authority to operate and discharge from this facility
arises under the permit conditions,requirements,terms, and provisions included herein.
The Unimin-Corporation Crystal Operation is hereby authorized to:
L. Continue operation of a wastewater treatment plant for process wastewater from mineral
extraction consisting of:- -
mix/reactor tanks .
lime and polymer feed systems
• thickener
drum filter
•. pH adjustment and
- • flow measurement. .
The Crystal Operation is located at'NCSR 1117 east of NC 226, southeast of Spruce Pine,
Mitchell County,and
'2.. Upon issuance of an Authorization to Construct permit from the Division of Water
Quality and submission of the engineer's certification for installation of a pump station
for effluent discharge, an emergency pond and a discharge outfall line,operate and
3. Discharge treated process water from said treatment works through outfall 001 and
stormwater through outfall 002 at the locations specified on the attached map into the
North Toe River,which is classified C Trout waters, in the French Broad River Basin.

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C Stal FaCllity Facility
Location
State Grid/Ouad: D 10 NFJ Spruce Pine,NC- Permitted Flow: 0.553 MGD not to scale
Latitude: 35°54'12"(001);35°53'55"(002)
Longitude: 82'03'25"(001);82°03'45"(002) , NPDES Permit No.NCO084620
Receiving Stream: North Toe River Sub-Basin: 04-03-06 No�th
Drainage Basin: French Broad River Basin Stream Class: C Trout NEtchell COArit

Permit Number: NC0084620
A.(1): EFFLUENT LIMITATIONS AND MONITORING REQUIREMENTS
During the period beginning on the.effective date of the permit and lasting until expiration,the
permittee is authorized to discharge process wastewater from mineral extraction of ore from,
outfall 001: Such discharges shall be limited and monitored by the permittee as'specified below:
rk�:?T,� ...r� tiJ G'CY�'F^r aF,"`*s..:�t-� ``�9.x`r"u�,$Ss.. n`'�i ;°�iy.""�'r¢�:x h°��'�,`,'7•ar •`.-i3Sa �.y,,,,,frY.ad,'t'v=.�'�.�.s1-r�.�=:�' Tx�t4'S Ys4r '�2i' �'RNs' xi,�`�.
115�� ��F �,y� �'��FFZ;UENT;LLMIT�ITIONS� �IVION TORIPiC� ��UEREMENTS
- s�MF .s���� �.k'Y ���qra x�:r.R t �.3�'�-kt;�Y✓`r�,�ir;^'a,• ✓'�"' �' a��4 ha'.y �h'}�y�•� a�3 r� � 4 w�a �"c,.."����'r..tt� 'K}4° # "{ '"rcz`�'
,2��' 7 � �. a3?�`..,�'&`3Y �l�,rJu.�'^,•a�S z.�S<;.., Y•Fc� } '.�
r ' 'Monthly # Da�I MMeasuremenS
CHARACTERISTICS f'" _---
R¥ F: h, Freuuencv ee, Eocation ,
s-�. .�­ 4v
i £��Y �iin
Flow 0.553 MGD Continuous Recording I or'E '
Total Fluoride 50.0 lb/day 100.0 lb/day Weekly, Composite .E;U, D
Total Suspended Solids 133.0 lb/day 266.0-1b/day Weekly. Composite E
Settleable Solids Daily Grab E
Turbidity2 Weekly Grab E, U, D
pH3 Daily Grab E, U, D
Chlorides4 Quarterly Composite E .
Chronic-TwdCity5 . Quarterly Composite E
Notes.
1. Sample locations: E- Effluent, I- Influent, U-upstream at Altapass Road, D-
downstream at the footbridge in the Town of Spruce Pine. Instreani samples shall
be grab samples and shall be conducted weekly.
2. This discharge shall not cause the turbidity of the receiving waters to,exceed 10
NTU. If the turbidity exceeds 10 NTU due to natural conditions, the, discharge
shall not cause any increase in turbidity.
3. .The pH shall not-be less than 6.0 standard units nor greater than 10.0 standard
units.
4.. Chloride shall be monitored quarterly during the same months as toxicity testing.
S. Chronic Toxicity (Ceriodaphnia) Pass/Fail at 2.0%: January; April, July and
October. See Special Conditions A (2). -
There shall be no discharge of floating solids or visible foam in other than trace '
amounts: .

Permit Number: NCO084620
A..(2). CHRONIC TOXICITY PERMIT LI IIT.(QRTRLY)
The effluent discharge shall at no time exhibit observable inhibition of reproduction or significant
mortality to Ceriodaphnia dubia at an effluent concentration of 2.0%..
The"permit holder shall perform at a minimum,qUarterly monitoring using test procedures outlined in .
the"North Carolina Ceriodaphnia Chronic Effluent Bioassay Procedure,"Revised February 1998,or
subsequent versions or"North Carolina Phase U Chronic Whole Effluent Toxicity Test Procedure"
(Revised-February 1998)or subsequent versions.The tests will be performed during the months of
January,April,July and October. Effluent sampling for this testing shall be performed at the NPDES
permitted final effluent discharge below all treatment processes:' .
If the testprocedure performed as the first test of any single quarter results in a failure or ChV below
the permit limit,then multiple-concentration testing shall be performed at a minimum,in each of the
two following months as described in"North Carolina Phase II Chronic Whole Effluent Toxicity Test
Procedure"(Revised-February 1998)or subsequent versions.The chronic value for multiple concentration tests will be determined using the geometric mean of the
highest concentration having no detectable impairment of reproduction or survival and the lowest
concentration that does have a detectable impairment of reproduction or survival. The definition of
"detectable.impairment,"collection methods,exposure regimes,and further statistical methods are
specified in the"North Carolina Phase Il Chronic Whole.Effluent Toxicity Test Procedure" (Revised
February 1998)or subsequent versions.-
AR toxicity testing results required as part of this permit conditionwill be entered on the Effluent
Discharge Monitoring Form(1v1R-1)for the months in which tests were performed,using the-parameter
code TGP313 for the pass/fail results and THP313 for the Chronic Value. Additionally,DWQ Form AT-3
(original)is to be sent to the following address:
Attention: North Carolina Division of Water Quality
Environmental Sciences Section
1621 Mail Service Center
Raleigh,North Carolina 27699-1621
Completed Aquatic Toxicity Test Forms shall be filed with the Environmental Sciences Section no later
than 30 days after the end of the reporting period for which the report is made.
Test data shall be complete,accurate,include all supporting chemical/physical measurements and all
concentration/response data,and be certified by laboratory supervisor and ORC or approved designate
signature. Total residual chlorine of the effluent toxicity sample must be measured and reported if
chlorine is employed for disinfection of the waste stream.
Should there be no discharge of flow from the facility during a month in which toxicity monitoring is
required,the permittee will complete the information located at the top of the aquatic toxicity(AT)test
form indicating the facility name,permit number,pipe number,county,and the month/year of the
report with the notation of"No Flow"in the comment area of the form. The report shall be submitted to
the Environmental Sciences Section at the address cited above.
Should the perm ittee fail to monitor during a month in which toxicity monitoring is required,
monitoring will be required during the following month.
Should any test data from this monitoring requirement or tests performed by the North Carolina
Division of Water Quality.indicate potential impacts to the receiving stream,this permit may be re-
opened and modified to include alternate monitoring requirements or limits.
NOTE: Failure to achieve test conditions as specified in the cited document,such as minimum
control organism survival,minimum control organism reproduction,and appropriate environmental
controls,shall constitute an invalid test and will require immediate follow-up testing to be completed
no later than the last day of the month following the month of the initial monitoring.
4

Permit Number: NCO0846-20
A.,(3)." BIOCIDES
The permittee shall not use any biocides except those approved in conjunction with the
permit application. The per'mittee shall notify the Director in_writing not later than'ninety
(90)days prior to instituting use of any additional biocide used in cooling systems,which
may be toxic to aquatic life other than those previously reported to the Division of Water
Quality.'Such`notification shall include-completion of Biocide Worksheet Form 101 and'a
map locating the discharge point and receiving stream:
A.(4). TURBIDITY REOPENER-
:
In the event that violations of the turbidity standard of the North Carolina Water Quality
Standards occur as result of this discharge;this permit shall be modified,or alternately,
revoked and reissued to incorporate limitations'sufficient to protect the receiving waters, _
A.(5). SOLIDS DISPOSAL
Solids removed or resulting from the wastewater treatment process shallbe contained and
disposed of in such a manner'as to prevent any contamination of the,surface.waters of the
State:
A. (6): FLUORIDE(WATER QUALITY STANDARD)REOPENER
This permit shall be modified,or revoked and reissued to incorporate new fluoride effluent.
limitations in the event that acute or chronic bioassay testing or.other studies results in a..
change in the North Carolina Water Quality Standard for fluoride.. ,
A.
(�• FLUORIDE(PRODUCTION PRODUCTION CHANGE) REOPENER. . .: .
This permit may be modified,or revoked and reissued to incorporate new limitations in the
event that production changes are requested or should any new fluoride using discharge`
request to locate on the North Toe River
A.(8). ADDITIONAL NOTIFICATION AND MONITORING(RELIABILITY).
REQUIREMENTS
The following measures will be taken in lieu of providingan additional thickener: Un n-d
Corporation Crystal Operation will notify the Asheville Regional Office,Te1ephone:(704)
251-6208,prior`to taking any'wastewater treatment unit out of service,if such action could
result in non-retention of inadequately treated effluent or an out of compliance discharge. :-
Whenever any unit is,removed from service,whether for maintenance or due to failure of
the unit,the`Company shall immediately institute daily monitoring for Total Suspended
Solids-and Fluorides (in addition to the parameters normally monitored on a daily basis). .
The Company will cease all wastewater related manufacturing operations until such time as
the wastewater treatment unit is operational,whenever the wastewater treatment system
can no longer adequately treat or store the wastewater,so as to prevent an out of
compliance discharge:
Additionally,Unimin Corporation niust`provide and install an additional'efflueiit pump
station prior to initiating discharge.to the North Toe River.

Permit Number: NC0084620
PART II
STORMWATER MONITORING,CONTROLS AND LIMITATIONS FOR PERMITTED
DISCHARGES.. .
SECTION A..-STORMWATER.BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES(BMPS) PLAN
1.The permittee shall implement stormwater BMPS to ensure that contaminants do not
enter surface waters via stormwater that comes in contact with any unstabilized
overburden; raw materials, intermediate products, finished products,byproducts or waste.
products located on the site covered by this permit.A BMP Plan shall be developed in
accordance with the requirements of this section.The BMP Plan requirement,or portions of
the plan requirement,maybe met by utilizing appropriate requirements in other
documented plans specific io the permitted facility.
2. Management of Stormwater Runoff and"Runon. The pernuttee shall maintain stormwater
BNTs for land disturbance areas and outside process'areas. In additi' 'controls should be
used to limit or isolate selected land disturbance and process areas and limit the amount of
off site stormwater runon to those areas.Appropriate Best Management Practices (BMWs)
should be used to divert,infiltrate, reuse or otherwise manage stormwater runoff and
runon in a manner that reduces pollutants in stormwater,discharges leaving the site.
Appropriate BMWs may include but are not limited to vegetative swales,berms,use of
reclaimed mine areas, and reuse of collected stormwater(such as for an industrial process
or as an irrigation source).
3.BMP Controls Inspection and Maintenance.All stormwater BMPS shall be inspected by-
or under the direction of the,permittee'at least once every seven calendar days and within
24 hours after any storm event that results in a discharge.The BMPs implemented shall be
operated and maintained so that they are cleaned out when the sediment storage capacity
has been reduced by50%.If any visible sedirnentation is leaving the property, corrective
action shall be taken to reduce the discharge of sediments:Visible sedimentation found
offsite shall be recorded with a brief explanation as to the measures taken to prevent future
releases as well as any measures taken to remove the sediment that left the site.All other
stormwater specific controls (e.g.oil/water separators) shall be inspected and qualitatively
monitored on a semiannual schedule, once in the fall (September-November) and once
during the spring(April-June).A log of sampling data and of activities taken to implement .
BMPS associated with the vehicle maintenance activities shall be maintained and
incorporafed into the BMP Plan and kept onsite for the duration of the permit term and
made available to the Director upon request..
4. Erosion and Sedimentation Control.The permittee shall implement the'management
practices'and the erosion and sedimentation control measures that are included in the
mining permit or.erosion and sedimentation control permit issued by the Division of Land
Resources.Compliance with the'issued permit is considered a requirement of this permit
Any deviation from the issued permit,or amendments to the issued permit,that impacts

Permit Number` NC0084620
water quality shall constitute'a violation-of the terms and conditions of this permit.A
signed copy of the issued permit,including the approved erosion and sedimentation control
me
asures the reclamation plan shall be maintained on the site at'all`times.Once an area,.
is release
d by the Division of Land Resources In accordance with NCGS Chapter 74,Article
7,it shall no longer be subject to this permit `.
5.Preventive Maintenance Inspections and Good Housekeeping Practices.Equipment
utilized during.mining activity on a site must.be operated and maintained.in such a manner
as to prevent potential or actual pollution of the surface water or ground waters of the state.
Fuels,lubricants, coolants,and Hydraulic fluids, or any other petroleum products;shall not
be discharged on the ground or into surface waters.Spent fluids.shall be disposed of in a:
manner so as not to enter the surface waters or ground waters of the state and in
accordance with applicable federal disposal regulations.Any spilled fluids shall be cleaned
up to the maximum extent practicable and disposed of in'a manner that does not allow their
entry into the surface waters or ground waters of the state.
ry P,
6.,Secondary Containment.The ermittee shall provide secondary containment for bulk -
storage of liquid materials;storage of Section 313 of Title III of the Superfund Amendments
and Reauthorization Act(SARA)water priority chemicals,or storage'of hazardous liquids
substances to prevent leaks'and "spills from contaminating stormwater runoff.If the
secondary containment devices are connected directly to stormwater conveyance systems,
the connection shall be controlled by manually activated valves or other similar devices
(which shall be secured with a locking mechanism) and any stormwater that accumulates in
the containment area shall be at a minimum visually observed for color,foam,outfall
staining,`visible sheens and dry weather flow,prior to release of the accumulated
stormwater.Accumulated stormwater shall be released if found to be uncontaminated by.
the material stored within the containment area.
SECTION B: ANALYTICAL AND QUALITATIVE MONITORING REQUIREMENTS
FOR DISCHARGES COMPOSED ENTIRELY OF STORMWATER'
Analytical monitoring for stormwater discharges shall be performed for parameters as.
specified in Tables 1 through 2.All analytical monitoring shall be performed during a
representative storm event as defined in Section D.Definitions.
In situations where stormwater runoff is controlled by_some type basin or . .
retention/detention pond,.the following provisions are applicable for sample collection for
analytical monitoring:
Analytical monitoring for stormwater discharges from a basin or other similar control
structures must be performed within the first 30 minutes of discharge.
Analytical monitoring for a basin/pond designed.to contain the 10-year design storm (see
Section D.Definitions)without discharging is notrequired. Qualitative monitoring for

Permii.Number: NCO084620.
color,foam, outfall staining,visible sheen and dry weather flow is the only monitoring
requirement
• Analytical and qualitative monitoring are not required for a basin/pond designed to
contain the.257year,24-hour storm(see Section D.Definitions)without discharging.A.
basin/pond meeting this provision is considered a non-discharging sioiniwater control.
1.Analytical Monitoring for Stormwater Discharges from Land Disturbance and Process
Areas,
_Analytical monitoring for stormwater discharges from land disturbance and process areas
shall be performed as specified in Table 1:
Table 1. Analytical Monitoring Requirements for Stormwater Discharges'from Land
Disturbing Activities and Process Areas -
{
; k �DscIiarge# � Tnits sn? asuremet #ramp
�
+
� Sam�1e
�",�� Charxcter,�shcs •� `�� ����°� �:�xe 'F�rpe
Settleable Solids MIAAnnually Grab SDO
Total Suspended Solids m . .. Annually Grab SDO
Turbidity. NTU Annually Grab SDO
Total Rainfall! inches. Annually --
Event Ouration4 minutes Annually --" -= -
Total Flow4. MG ` Annually " -- SDO':.
pH SU Annually Grab SDO
Fluoride ' mg/l Annually Grab SDO _
Chloride m AnnuallyGrab SDO
Footnotes
1 Measurement Frequency:Once per year during a representative storm event.A year is defined as the 12
month period beginning on the month and day of issuance of the permit.
2 The sample is collected within the first 30 minutes of discharge from the outfall
3 Sample Location;Samples shall be collected at each stormwater discharge outfall(SDO)unless
representative outfall status has been granted.
4 For each sampled representative storm event,the total precipitation,storm duration,'and total flow
must be monitored.Total flow shall be either;(a)measured continuously,(b)calculated based on the -
amount of area draining to the outfall, the amount of built-upon(impervious)area,and the total amount
of rainfall,or(c)estimated by the measurement of flow at 20 minute intervals during the rainfall event:
8

Permit Number: NC0084620
2. Qualitative Monitoring for Stormwater Discharges from Land Disturbance Areas,.
Process Areas,and Vehicle Maintenance Areas.
Qualitative monitoring requires a visual inspection of all stormwater outfalls with
stormwater runoff from land disturbance; process or vehicle maintenance areas
regardless of representative outfall status or cuf-off concentrations and shall be
performed as specified below.in Table 2. No analytical tests are required.'
The first qualitative monitoring event during the term'of the permit must coincide with
the initial analytical monitoring event (regardless'of the-season). All other qualitative
monitoring will be performed twice per year,once in the spring (April-June) and once
in the fall(September-November)and does not need to be performed during a
representative storm event.
Table 2.Qualitative Monitoring Requirements
MA
Color Semi-Annual SDO
Odor Se Annual SDO
Clarity Semi-Annual SDO
Floating Solids Semi-Annual SDI
Suspended Solids; Sem#-Annual SDO
Foam Semi-Annual SDO
Oil Sheer Semi-Annual SDO
Deposition at.or immediately below th, Semi dual SDO
outfall
Erosion at or immediately below&e Semi--Annual SDO
outfall. .
Other obvious ,caters Semi-mil SDO
of stormivfir pollution
Footnotes:
1 Monitoring Location:Qualitative monitoring shall be performed at each stormwater discharge
outfall(SDO)associated with land disturbance areas,process areas and vehicle maintenance
areas regardless of representative outfall status.
9

Permit'Number: NC0084620
SECTION C: SCHEDULE OFF COMPLIANCE
1. The permittee shall comply with Final Limitations and Controls specified for,
stormwater discharges in accordance with the following schedule: -
For the land disturbance activities
a.Implement BMP's and stormwater controls;as appropriate on the effective date of
permit coverage, at existing'operations.
li.Develop and implement BMP's and stormwater controls, as appropriate,prior to
beginning land disturbance activity at new operations.
2. Permittee shall at all times provide the operation and maintenance necessary to operate
the permitted stormwater controls at optimum effiaency;
SECTION D: DEFINITIONS
1. Representative Storm Event
A storm event that measures greater than 0.1 inches of'rainfall and that is preceded by
at least 72 hours in which no storm event measuring greater than 0.1 inches has
occurred. A single storm event may contain up to 10 consecutive hours of no
precipitation. For example, if it rains for 2 hours without producing any collectable.
discharge,and then stops,a sample may 6e collected if a rain producing a discharge .
begins again within the next 10 hours.
2. Ten Year Design Storm
The maximum 24 hour precipitation event expected to be equaled or exceeded on the
average once in ten years. Design storm information can be found in the State of North
'Carolina Erosion and Sediment Control Planning,and Design Manual
3. 25-year, 24 hour storm event.
The maximum 24-hour precipitation event expected.to be equaled or exceeded,on the
average, once in 25 years.
10

?DES Permit Standard Conditions
Page 1 of 16
d
PART II
STANDARD CONDITIONS FOR NPDES PERMITS
Section A. Definitions
2/Month
Samples are collected twice per month with at least ten calendar days between sampling events.
3/Week
Samples are collected three times per week on three separate calendar days.
Act or"the Act"
The Federal Water Pollution Control Act,also known as the Clean Water Act,as amended,33 USC 1251, et. seq.
Annual Average
The arithmetic mean of all "daily discharges" of a pollutant measured during the calendar year. In the case of fecal
coliform,the geometric mean of such discharges.
Arithmetic Mean
The summation of the individual values divided by the number of individual values.
Bypass
The known diversion of waste streams from any portion of a treatment facility including the collection system,which
is not a designed or established or operating mode for the facility.
Calendar Day
- r
The period from midnight of one day until midnight of the next day. However, for purposes of this permit, any
consecutive 24-hour period that reasonably represents the calendar day may be used for.sampling.
Calendar Quarter
One of the following distinct periods: January through March, April through June, July through September, and
October through December.
Composite Sample
A sample collected over a 24-hour period by continuous sampling or combining grab samples of at least 100 ml in
such a manner as to result in a total sample representative of the wastewater discharge during the sample period. The
Director may designate the most appropriate method (specific number and size of aliquots necessary, the time
interval between grab samples, etc.) on a case-by-case basis. Samples may be collected manually or automatically.
Composite samples may be obtained by the following methods:
(1) Continuous: a single,continuous sample collected over a 24-hour period.proportional to the rate of flow.
(2) Constant time/variable volume: a series of grab samples collected at equal time intervals over a 24 hour
period of discharge and combined proportional to the rate of flow measured at the time of individual sample
collection,or
(3) Variable time/constant volume: a series of grab samples of equal volume collected over a 24 hour period
with the time intervals between samples determined by a preset number of gallons passing the sampling
point. Flow measurement between sample intervals shall be determined by use of a flow recorder and
totalizer, and the preset gallon interval between sample collection fixed at no greater than 1/24 of the
expected total daily flow at the treatment system, or
(4) Constant time/constant volume: a series of grab samples of equal volume collected over a 24-hour period at
a constant time interval. Use of this method requires prior approval by the Director. This method
may only be used in situations where effluent flow rates vary less than 15 percent. The following
restrictions also apply:
➢ Influent and effluent grab samples shall be of equal size and of no less than 100 milliliters
Version 1011012007

7PDES Permit Standard Conditions
Page 2 of 16
➢ Influent samples shall not be collected more than once per hour.
➢ Permittees with wastewater treatment systems whose detention time < 24 hours shall collect effluent
grab samples at intervals of no greater than 20 minutes apart during any 24-hour period.
➢ Permittees with wastewater treatment systems whose detention time exceeds 24 hours shall collect
effluent grab samples at least every X hours [X = days detention time] over a 24-hour period. Effluent
samples shall be collected at least every six hours; there must be a minimum of four samples during a 24-
hour sampling period.
Continuous flow measurement
Flow monitoring that occurs without interruption throughout the operating hours of the facility. Flow shall be
monitored continually except for the infrequent times when there may be no flow or for infrequent maintenance
activities on the flow device.
Daily Discharge
The discharge of a pollutant measured during a calendar day or any 24-hour period that reasonably represents the
calendar day for purposes of sampling. For pollutants measured in units of mass,the"daily discharge"is calculated as
the total mass of the pollutant discharged over the day. The "daily discharge" concentration comprises the mean
concentration for a 24-hour sampling period as either a composite sample concentration or the arithmetic mean of all
grab samples collected during that period. (40 CFR 122.2)
Dailv Maximum
The highest "daily discharge" for conventional and other non-toxicant parameters. NOTE: Permittees may not
submit a "daily average" calculation [for determining compliance with permit limits] for toxicants. See the relevant
Federal effluent guideline[s] for the appropriate calculation interval.
Daily Sampling
Parameters requiring daily sampling shall be sampled 5 out of every 7 days per week unless otherwise specified in the
permit. The Division expects that sampling shall be conducted on weekdays except where holidays or other
disruptions of normal operations prevent weekday sampling. If sampling is required for all seven days of the week
for any permit parameter(s),that requirement will be so noted on the Effluent Limitations and Monitoring Page(s).
DM or"the Division"
The Division of Water Quality,Department of Environment and Natural Resources.
EMC
The North Carolina Environmental Management Commission.
Facility Closure
The cessation of wastewater treatment at a permitted facility,or the cessation of all activities that require coverage
under the NPDES. Completion of facility closure will allow this permit to be rescinded.
Geometric Mean
The Nth root of the product of the individual values where N = the number of individual values. For purposes of
calculating the geometric mean,values of"0" (or"< [detection level]") shall be considered=1.
Grab Sample
Individual samples of at least 100 ml collected over a period of time not exceeding 15 minutes. Grab samples can be
collected manually. Grab samples must be representative of the discharge (or the receiving stream, for instream
samples).
Hazardous Substance
Any substance designated under 40 CFR Part 116 pursuant to Section 311 of the Clean Water Act.
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t
Instantaneous flow measurement
A measure of flow taken at the time of sampling, when both the sample and flow will-be representative of the total
discharge.
Monthly Average concentration limit)
The arithmetic mean of all"daily discharges" of a pollutant measured during the calendar month. In the case of fecal
coliform,the geometric mean of such discharges.
Permit Issuing Authority
The Director of the Division of Water Quality.
Quarterly Average(concentration limitl
The average of all samples taken over a calendar quarter.
Severe property damage
Substantial physical damage to property, damage to the treatment facilities which causes them to become inoperable,
or substantial and permanent loss of natural resources which can reasonably be expected to occur in,the absence of a
bypass. Severe property damage excludes economic loss caused by delays in production.
Toxic Pollutant:
Any pollutant listed as toxic under Section 307(a)(1) of the Clean Water Act.
U set
An incident beyond the reasonable control of the Permittee causing unintentional and temporary noncompliance with
permit effluent limitations and/or monitoring requirements.. An upset does not include noncompliance caused by
operational error, improperly designed treatment facilities, inadequate treatment facilities, lack of preventive
maintenance,or careless or improper operation.
Weekly Average (concentration limit),
The arithmetic mean of all "daily discharges" of a pollutant measured during the calendar week. In the case of fecal
coliform,the geometric mean of such discharges.
Section B. General Conditions
1. Duty to C�ly
The Permittee must comply with all conditions of this permit. Any permit noncompliance constitutes a violation
of the Clean Water Act and is grounds for enforcement action;for permit termination,revocation and reissuance;
or modification;or denial of a permit renewal application [40 CFR 122.41].
a. The Permittee shall comply with effluent standards or prohibitions established under section 307(a) of the
Clean Water Act for toxic pollutants and with standards for sewage sludge use or disposal established under
section 405(d) of the Clean Water Act within the time provided in the regulations that establish these
standards or prohibitions or standards for sewage sludge use or disposal, even if the permit has not yet been
modified to incorporate the requirement.
b. The Clean Water Act provides that any person who violates section 301,302,306,307,308,318 or 405 of the
Act, or any permit condition or limitation implementing any such sections in a permit issued under section
402, or any requirement imposed in a pretreatment program approved under sections 402(a)(3) or 402(b)(8)
of the Act,is subject to a civil penalty not to exceed$25,000 per day for each violation. [40 CFR 122.41 (a)
(2)]
c. The Clean Water Act provides that any person who negligently violates sections 301,302,306,307,308,318,or
405 of the Act, or any condition or limitation implementing any of such sections in a permit issued under
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section 402 of the Act, or any requirement imposed in a pretreatment program approved under section s
402(a)(3) or 402(b)(8) of the Act,is subject to criminal penalties of$2,500 to $25,000 per day of violation, or
imprisonment of not more than 1 year, or both. In the case of a second or subsequent conviction for a
negligent violation, a person shall be subject to criminal penalties of not more than $50,000 per day of
violation,or by imprisonment of not more than 2 years, or both. [40 CFR 122.41 (a) (2)]
d. Any person who knoxingly violates such sections, or such conditions or limitations is subject to criminal
penalties of$5,000 to $50,000 per day of violation, or imprisonment for not more than 3 years, or both. In
the case of a second or subsequent conviction for a knowing violation, a person shall be subject to criminal
penalties of not more than$100,000 per day of violation, or imprisonment of not more than 6 years, or both.
[40 CFR 122.41 (a) (2)]
e. Any person who knowingly violates section 301,302, 303,306,307,308, 318 or 405 of the Act,or any permit
condition or limitation implementing any of such sections in a permit issued under section 402 of the Act,
and who knows at that time that he thereby places another person in imminent danger of death or serious
bodily injury, shall,upon conviction, be subject to a fine of not more than $250,000 or imprisonment of not
more than 15 years,or both. In the case of a second or subsequent conviction for a knowing endangerment
violation,a person shall be subject to a fine of not more than$500,000 or by imprisonment of not more than
30 years, or both.An organization, as defined in section 309(c)(3)(B)(iii) of the CWA, shall,upon conviction
of violating the imminent danger provision,be subject to a fine of not more than$1,000,000 and can be fined
up to $2,000,000 for second or subsequent convictions. [40 CFR 122.41 (a) (2)]
f. Under state law, a civil penalty of not more than $25,000 per violation may be assessed against any person
who violates or fails to act in accordance with the terms, conditions, or requirements of a permit. [North
Carolina General Statutes § 143-215.6A]
g. Any person may be assessed an administrative penalty by the Administrator for violating section 301, 302,
306, 307, 308, 318 or 405 of this Act, or any permit condition or limitation implementing any of such
sections in a permit issued under section 402 of this Act. Administrative penalties for Class I violations are
not to exceed$10,000 per violation,with the maximum amount of any Class I penalty assessed not to exceed
$25,000. Penalties for Class II violations are not to exceed $10,000 per day for each day during which the
violation continues, with the maximum amount of any Class II penalty not to exceed $125,000. [40 CFR
122.41 (a) (3)]
2. Duty to Mitigate
The Permittee shall take all reasonable steps to minimize or prevent any discharge or sludge use or disposal in
violation of this permit with a reasonable likelihood of adversely affecting human health or the environment [40
CFR 122.41 (d)].
3. Civil and Criminal Liability
Except as provided in permit conditions on 'Bypassing" (Part II. C. 4), "Upsets," (Part II. C. 5) and "Power
Failures" (Part II. C. 7), nothing in this permit shall be construed to relieve the Permittee from any
responsibilities, liabilities, or penalties for noncompliance pursuant to NCGS 143-215.3, 143-215.6 or Section 309
of the Federal Act, 33 USC 1319. Furthermore, the Permittee is responsible for consequential damages, such as
fish kills, even though the responsibility for effective compliance may be temporarily suspended.
4. Oil and Hazardous Substance Liability
Nothing in this permit shall be construed to preclude the institution of any legal action or relieve the Permittee
from any responsibilities,liabilities, or penalties to which the Permittee is or may be subject to under NCGS 143-
215.75 et seq. or Section 311 of the Federal Act, 33 USG 1321. Furthermore, the Permittee is responsible for
consequential damages, such as fish kills, even though the responsibility for effective compliance may be
temporarily suspended.
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5. Property RLghts
The issuance of this permit does not convey any property rights in either real or personal property, or any
exclusive privileges, nor does it authorize any injury to private property or any invasion of personal rights, nor
any infringement of Federal,State or local laws or regulations [40 CFR 122.41 (g)].
6. Onshore or Offshore Construction
This permit does not authorize or approve the construction of any onshore or offshore physical structures or
facilities or the undertaking of any work in any navigable waters.
7. Severability
The provisions of this permit are severable. If any provision of this permit,or the application of any provision of
this permit to any circumstances,is held invalid,the application of such provision to other circumstances,and the
remainder of this permit,shall not be affected thereby [NCGS 150B-23].
8. Duty to Provide Information
The Permittee shall furnish to the Permit.Issuing Authority,within a reasonable time, any information which the
Permit Issuing Authority may request to determine whether cause exists for modifying,revoking and reissuing,or
terminating this permit or to determine compliance with this,permit. The Permittee shall also furnish to the
Permit Issuing Authority upon request,copies of records required by this permit [40 CFR 122.41 (h)].
9. Duty to Reapply
If the Permittee wishes to continue an activity regulated by this permit after the expiration date of this permit,the
Permittee must apply for and obtain a new permit [40 CFR 122.41 (b)].
10. Expiration of Permit
The Permittee is not authorized to discharge after the expiration date. In order to receive automatic
authorization to discharge beyond the expiration date, the Permittee shall submit such information, forms, and
fees as are required by the agency authorized to issue permits no later than 180 days prior to the expiration date.
Any Permittee that has not requested renewal at least 180 days prior to expiration, or any Permittee that does not
have a permit after the expiration and has not requested renewal at least 180 days prior to expiration,will subject
the Permittee to enforcement procedures as provided in NCGS 143-215.6 and 33 USC 1251 et. seq.
11. Signatory Requirements
All applications,reports, or information submitted to the Permit Issuing Authority shall be signed and certified
[40 CFR 122.41 (k)].
a. All permit applications shall be signed as'follows:
(1) For a corporation: by a responsible corporate officer. For the purpose of this Section, a responsible
corporate officer means: (a) a president, secretary, treasurer or vice president of the corporation in
charge of a principal business function, or any other person who performs similar policy or decision
making functions for the corporation, or (b) the manager of one or more manufacturing,production, or
operating facilities,provided,the manager is authorized to make management decisions which govern the
operation of the regulated facility including having the explicit or implicit duty of making major capital
'investment recommendations, and initiating and directing other comprehensive measures to assure long
term environmental compliance with environmental laws and regulations; the manager can ensure that
the necessary systems are established or actions taken to gather complete and accurate information for
permit application requirements; and where authority to sign documents has been assigned or delegated
to the manager in accordance with corporate procedures .
(2) For a partnership or sole proprietorship: by a general partner or the proprietor,respectively;or
(3) For a municipality, State, Federal, or other public agency: by either a principal executive officer or
ranking elected official [40 CFR 122.22].
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b. All reports required by the permit and other information requested by the Permit Issuing Authority shall be e
signed by a person described in paragraph a. above or by a duly authorized representative of that person. A
person is a duly authorized representative only if.
1. The authorization is made in writing by a person described above;
2. The authorization specified either an individual or a position having responsibility for the overall
operation of the regulated facility or activity, such as the position of plant manager, operator of a well or
well field, superintendent, a position of equivalent responsibility, or an individual or position having
overall responsibility for environmental matters for the company. (A duly authorized representative may
thus be either a named individual or any individual occupying a named position.);and
3. The written authorization is submitted to the Permit Issuing Authority[40 CFR 122.22]
c. Changes to authorization: If an authorization under paragraph (b) of this section is no longer accurate
because a different individual or position has responsibility for the overall operation of the facility, a new
authorization satisfying the requirements of paragraph (b) of this section must be submitted to the Director
prior to or together with any reports, information, or applications to be signed by an authorized
representative [40 CFR 122.22]
d. Certification. Any person signing a document under paragraphs a. or b. of this section shall make the
following certification[40 CFR 122.22];
"1 certify, under penalty of law, that this document and all attachments were prepared under my direction or
supervision in accordance with a system designed to assure that qualified personnel properly gather and evaluate
the information submitted. Based on my inquiry of the person or persons who manage the system, or those persons
directly responsible for gathering the information, the information submitted is, to the best of my knowledge and
belief, true, accurate, and complete. 1 am aware that there are significant penalties for submitting false information,
including the possibility of fines and imprisonment for knowing violations."
12. Permit Actions
This permit may be modified, revoked and reissued, or terminated for cause. The filing of a request by the
Permittee for a permit modification, revocation and reissuance, or termination, or a notification of planned
changes or anticipated noncompliance does not stay any permit condition [40 CFR 122.41
13. Permit Modification.Revocation and Reissuance,or Termination
The issuance of this permit does not prohibit the permit issuing authority from reopening and modifying the
permit,revoking and reissuing the permit,or terminating the permit as allowed by the laws,rules,and regulations
contained in Tide 40, Code of Federal Regulations, Parts 122 and 123; Title 15A of the North Carolina
Administrative Code,Subchapter 2H.0100;and North Carolina General Statute 143-215.1 et.al.
14. Annual Administering and Compliance Monitoring Fee Requirements
The Permittee must pay the annual administering and compliance monitoring fee within thirty days after being
billed by the Division. Failure to pay the fee in a timely manner in accordance with 15A NCAC 2H.0105 (b).(2)
may cause this Division to initiate action to revoke the permit.
Section C. Operation and Maintenance of Pollution Controls
1. Certified Operator
Upon classification of the permitted facility by the Certification Commission, the Permittee shall employ a
certified water pollution control treatment system operator in responsible charge (ORC) of the water pollution
control treatment system. Such operator must hold a certification of the grade equivalent to or greater than the
classification assigned to the water pollution control treatment system by the Certification Commission. The
Permittee must also employ one or more certified Back-up ORCs who possess a currently valid certificate of the
type of the system. Back-up ORCs must possess a grade equal to (or no more than one grade less than) the grade
of the system [15A NCAC 8G.0201].
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The ORC of each Class I facility must:
➢ Visit the facility at leasi weekly
➢ Comply with all other conditions of 15A NCAC 8G.0204.
The ORC of each Class II,III and IV facility must:
➢ Visit the facility at least five days per week,excluding holidays
➢ Properly manage and document daily operation and maintenance of the facility
➢ Comply with all other conditions of 15A NCAC 8G.0204.
Once the facility is classified, the Permittee shall submit a letter to the Certification Commission designating the
operator in responsible charge:
a. Within 60 calendar days prior to wastewater being introduced into a new system
b. Within 120 calendar days of
➢ Receiving notification of a change in the classification of the system requiring'the designation of a
new ORC and back-up ORC
➢ A-vacancy in the position of ORC or back-up ORC.
2. Proper Operation and Maintenance
The Permittee shall at all times provide the operation and maintenance resources necessary to operate the existing
facilities at optimum efficiency. The Permittee shall at all times properly operate and maintain all facilities and
systems of treatment and control (and related appurtenances) which are installed or used by the Permittee to
achieve compliance with the conditions of this permit. Proper operation and maintenance also includes adequate
laboratory controls and appropriate quality assurance procedures. This provision requires the Permittee to install
and operate backup or auxiliary facilities only when necessary to achieve compliance with the conditions of the
permit [40 CFR 122.41 (e)].
3. Need to Halt or Reduce not a Defense
It shall not be a defense for a Permittee in an enforcement action that it would have been necessary to halt or
reduce the permitted activity in order to maintain compliance with the condition of this permit [40 CFR 122.41
4. Bypassing of Treatment Facilities
a. Bypass not exceeding limitations [40 CFR 122.41 (m) (2)]
The Permittee may allow any bypass to occur which does not cause effluent limitations to be exceeded, but
only if it also is for essential maintenance to assure efficient operation.- These bypasses are not subject to the
provisions of Paragraphs b. and c.of this section.
b. Notice [40 CFR 122.41 (m) (3)]
(1) Anticipated bypass. If the Permittee knows in advance of the need for a bypass, it shall submit prior
notice, if possible at least ten days before the date of the bypass; including an evaluation of the
anticipated quality and effect of the bypass.
(2) Unanticipated bypass. The Permittee shall submit notice of an unanticipated bypass as -required in Part
II.E. 6. (24-hour notice).
c. Prohibition of Bypass
(1) Bypass from the treatment facility is prohibited and the Permit Issuing Authority may take enforcement
action against a Permittee for bypass,unless:
(A) Bypass was unavoidable to prevent loss of life,personal injury or severe property damage;
(B) There were no feasible alternatives to the bypass, such as the use of auxiliary treatment facilities,
retention of untreated wastes or maintenance during normal periods of equipment downtime. This
condition is not satisfied if adequate backup equipment should have been installed in the exercise of
reasonable engineering judgment to prevent a bypass which occurred during normal periods of
equipment downtime or preventive maintenance;and
(C) The Permittee submitted notices as required under Paragraph b.of this section.
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(2) Bypass from the collection system is prohibited and the Permit Issuing Authority may take enforcement
action against a Permittee for a bypass as provided in any current or future system-wide collection system
permit associated with the treatment facility.
(3) The Permit Issuing Authority may approve an anticipated bypass, after considering its adverse effects,if
the Permit Issuing Authority determines that it will meet the three conditions listed above in Paragraph c.
(l) of this section.
5. U sets
a. Effect of an upset [40 CFR 122.41 (n) (2)]: An upset constitutes an affirmative defense to an action
brought for noncompliance with such technology based permit effluent limitations if the requirements of
paragraph b. of this condition are met. No determination made during administrative review of claims that
noncompliance was caused by upset, and before an action for noncompliance, is final administrative action
subject to judicial review.
b. Conditions necessary for a demonstration of upset: A Permittee ° who wishes to establish the
affirmative defense of upset shall demonstrate, through properly signed, contemporaneous operating logs,or
other relevant evidence that:
(1)An upset occurred and that the Permittee can identify the cause(s) of the upset;
(2)The Permittee facility was at the time being properly operated;and
(3)The Permittee submitted notice of the upset as required in Part II..E. 6. (b) of this permit.
(4)The Permittee complied with any remedial measures required under Part II.B.2.of this permit.
c. Burden of proof[40 CFR 122.41 (n) (4)]: The Permittee seeking to establish the occurrence of an
upset has the burden of proof in any enforcement proceeding.
6. Removed Substances
Solids, sludges, filter backwash, or other pollutants removed in the course of treatment or control of wastewaters
shall be utilized/disposed of in accordance with NCGS 143-215.1 and in a manner such as to prevent any pollutant
from such materials from entering waters.of the State or navigable waters of the United States. The Permittee
shall comply with all existing Federal regulations governing the disposal of sewage sludge. Upon promulgation of
40 CFR Part 503, any permit issued by the Permit Issuing Authority for the utilization/disposal of sludge may be
reopened and modified, or revoked and reissued, to incorporate applicable requirements at 40 CFR 503. The
Permittee shall comply with applicable 40 CFR 503 Standards for the Use and Disposal of Sewage Sludge (when
promulgated) within the time provided in the regulation, even if the permit is not modified to incorporate the
requirement. The Permittee shall notify the Permit Issuing Authority of any significant change in its sludge use
or disposal practices.
7. Power Failures
- ' The Permittee is responsible for maintaining adequate safeguards (as required.by 15A NCAC 2H.0124 —
Reliability) to prevent the discharge of untreated or inadequately treated wastes during electrical power failures
either by means of alternate power sources,standby generators or retention of inadequately treated effluent.
Section D. Monitoring and Records
1. Representative Sampling
Samples collected and measurements taken,as required herein, shall be characteristic of the volume and nature of
the permitted discharge. Samples collected at a frequency less than daily shall be taken on a day and time that is
characteristic of the discharge over the entire period the sample represents: All samples shall be taken at the
monitoring points specified in this permit and,unless otherwise specified, before the effluent joins or is diluted
by any other wastestream, body of water, or substance. Monitoring points shall not be changed without
notification to and the approval of the Permit Issuing Authority [40 CFR 122.41
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2. Reporting
Monitoring results obtained during the previous month(s) shall be summarized for each month and reported on a
monthly Discharge Monitoring Report (DMR) Form (MR 1, 1.1, 2, 3) or alternative forms approved by the
Director,postmarked no later than the last calendar day of the month following the completed reporting period.
The first DMR is due on the last day of the month following the issuance of the permit or in the case of a new
facility, on the last day of the month following the commencement of discharge. Duplicate signed copies of
these,and all other reports required herein,shall be submitted to the following address:
NC DENR/Division of Water Quality/Water Quality Section
ATTENTION: Central Files
1617 Mail Service Center
Raleigh,North Carolina 27699-1617
3. Flow Measurements
Appropriate flow measurement devices and methods consistent with accepted scientific practices shall be selected
and used to ensure the accuracy and reliability of measurements of the volume of monitored discharges. The
devices shall be installed, calibrated and maintained to ensure that the accuracy of the measurements is consistent
with the accepted capability of that type of device. Devices selected shall be capable of measuring flows with a
maximum deviation of less than 10% from the true discharge rates throughout the range of expected discharge
volumes. Flow measurement devices shall be accurately calibrated at a minimum of once per year and maintained
to ensure that the accuracy of the measurements is consistent with the accepted capability of that type of device.
The Director shall approve the flow measurement device and monitoring location prior to installation.
Once-through condenser cooling water flow monitored by pump logs,or pump hour meters as specified in Part I
of this permit and based on the manufacturer's pump curves shall not be subject to this requirement.
4. Test Procedures
Test procedures for the analysis of pollutants shall conform to the EMC regulations (published pursuant to
NCGS 143-215.63 et. seq.), the Water and Air Quality Reporting Acts, and to regulations published pursuant to
Section 304(g), 33 USC 1314, of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act (as Amended),and 40 CFR 136; or in
the case of sludge use or disposal,approved under 40 CFR 136,unless otherwise specified in 40 CFR 503,unless
other test procedures have been specified in this permit [40 CFR 122.41].
To meet the intent of the monitoring required by this permit, all test procedures must produce minimum
detection and reporting levels that are below the permit discharge requirements and all data generated must be
reported down to the minimum.detection or lower reporting level of the procedure. If no approved methods are
determined capable of achieving minimum detection and reporting levels below permit discharge requirements,
then the most sensitive (method with the lowest possible detection and reporting level) approved method must
be used.
5. Penalties for Tampering
The Clean Water Act provides that any person who falsifies, tampers with, or knowingly renders inaccurate, any
monitoring device or method required to be maintained under this permit shall,upon conviction,be punished by
a fine of not more than $10,000 per violation, or by imprisonment for not more than two years per violation, or
by both. If a conviction of a person is for a violation committed after a first conviction of such person under this
paragraph,punishment is a fine of not more than $20,000 per day of violation, or by imprisonment of not more
than 4 years,or both [40 CFR 122.41].
6. Records Retention
Except for records of monitoring information required by this permit related to the Permittee's sewage sludge
use and disposal activities, which shall be retained for a period of at least five years (or longer as required by 40
CFR 503),the Permittee shall retain records of all monitoring information,including:
➢ all calibration and maintenance records
➢ all original strip chart recordings for continuous monitoring instrumentation
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➢ copies of all reports required by this permit
➢ copies of all data used to complete the application for this permit
These records or copies shall be maintained for a period of at least 3 years from the date of the sample,
measurement,report or application. This period may be extended by request of the Director at any time [40 CFR
122.41].
7. Recording Results
For each measurement or sample taken pursuant to the requirements of this permit, the Permittee shall record
the following information [40 CFR 122.41]:
a. The date,exact place,and time of sampling or measurements;
b. The individual(s)who performed the sampling or measurements;
c. The date(s) analyses were performed;
d. The individual(s)who performed the analyses;
e. The analytical techniques or methods used;and
f. The results of such analyses.
8. Inspection and Entev
The Permittee shall allow the Director, or an authorized representative (including an authorized contractor acting
as a representative of the Director),upon the presentation of credentials and other documents as may be required
by law,to;
a. Enter upon the Permittee's premises where a regulated facility or activity is located or conducted, or where
records must be kept under the conditions of this permit;
b. Have access to and copy, at reasonable times, any records that must be kept under the conditions of this
permit;
c. Inspect at reasonable times any facilities, equipment (including monitoring and control equipment),practices,
or operations regulated or required under this permit;and
d. Sample or monitor at reasonable times, for the purposes of assuring permit compliance or as otherwise
authorized by the Clean Water Act,any substances or parameters at any location [40 CFR 122.41 (i)].
Section E Reporting Requirements
1. Change in Discharge
All discharges authorized herein shall be consistent with the terms and conditions of this permit. The discharge
of any pollutant identified in this permit more frequently than or at a level in excess of that authorized shall
constitute a violation of the permit.
2. Planned Changes
The Permittee shall give notice to the Director as soon as possible of any planned physical alterations or
additions to the permitted facility [40 CFR 122.41 (1)]. Notice is required only when:
a. The alteration or addition to a permitted- facility may meet one of the criteria for new sources at 40 CFR
122.29 (b);or
b. The alteration or addition could significantly change the nature or increase the quantity of pollutants
discharged. This notification applies to pollutants subject neither to effluent limitations in the permit,nor to
notification requirements under 40 CFR 122.42(a) (1).
c. The alteration or addition results in a significant change in the Permittee's sludge use or disposal practices,
and such alteration, addition or change may justify the application of permit conditions that are different
from or absent in the existing permit, including notification of additional use or disposal sites not reported
during the permit application process or not reported pursuant to an approved land application plan.
3. Anticipated Noncompliance
The Permittee shall give advance notice to the Director of any planned changes to the permitted facility or other
activities that might result in noncompliance with the permit [40 CFR 122.41 (1) (2)].
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4. Transfers
This permit is not transferable to any person except after notice to the Director. The Director may require
modification or revocation and reissuance of the permit to document the change of ownership. Any such action
may incorporate other requirements as may be necessary under the Clean Water Act[40 CFR 122.410) (3)].
5. Monitoring Reports
Monitoring results shall be reported at the intervals specified elsewhere in this permit[40 CFR 122.41 (1) (4)].
a. Monitoring results must be reported on a Discharge Monitoring Report (DMR) (See Part II. D. 2) or forms
provided by the Director for reporting results of monitoring of sludge use or disposal practices.
b. If the Permittee monitors any pollutant more frequently than required by-this permit, the results of such
monitoring shall be included in the calculation and reporting of the data submitted on the DMR.
6. Twenty-four Hour Reporting
a. The Permittee shall report to the Director or the appropriate Regional Office any noncompliance that
potentially threatens public health or the environment. Any information shall be provided orally within 24
hours from the time the Permittee became aware of the circumstances. A written submission shall also be
provided within ,5 days of the time the Permittee becomes aware of the circumstances. The written
submission shall contain a description of the noncompliance, and its cause; the period of noncompliance,.
including exact dates and times, and if the noncompliance has not been corrected, the anticipated time it is
expected to continue; and steps taken or planned to reduce, eliminate, and prevent reoccurrence of the
noncompliance [40 CFR 122.41 (1) (6)].
b. The Director may waive the written report on%a case-by-case basis for reports under this section if the oral
report has been received within 24 hours.
c. Occurrences outside normal business hours may also be reported to the Division's Emergency Response
personnel at (80-0) 662-7956,[phone] or(919) 733-M00.
7. Other Noncompliance
The Permittee shall report all instances of noncompliance not reported under Part II.E. 5 and 6. of this permit at
the time monitoring reports are submitted. The reports shall contain the information listed in Part II. E. 6. of
this permit [40 CFR 122.410) (7)].
8. Other Information
Where the Permittee becomes aware that it failed to submit any relevant facts in a permit application,.or
submitted incorrect information in a permit application or in any report to the Director,it shall promptly submit
such facts or information [40 CFR 122.41 (1) (8)].
9. Noncompliance Notification
The Permittee shall report by telephone to either the .central office or the appropriate regional office of the
Division as soon as possible, but in no case more than 24 hours or on the next working day following the
occurrence or first knowledge of the occurrence of any of the following:
a. Any occurrence at the water pollution control facility which results in the discharge of significant amounts of
wastes which are abnormal in quantity or characteristic, such as the dumping of the contents of a sludge
digester; the known passage of a slug of hazardous substance through the facility; or any other unusual
circumstances.
b. Any process unit failure; due to known or unknown reasons, that render the facility incapable of adequate
wastewater treatment such as mechanical or electrical failures of pumps,aerators,compressors,etc.
c. Any failure of a pumping station, sewer line, or treatment facility resulting in a by-pass directly to receiving
waters without treatment of all or any portion of the influent to such station or facility.
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Persons reporting such occurrences by telephone shall also file a written report within 5 days following first
knowledge of the occurrence.
10. Availability of Reports
Except for data determined to be confidential under NCGS 143-215.3 (a)(2) or Section 308 of the Federal Act, 33
USC 1318, all reports prepared in accordance with the terms shall be available for public inspection at the offices
of the Division. As required by the Act, effluent data shall not be considered confidential. Knowingly making
any false statement on any such report may result in the imposition of criminal penalties as provided for in
NCGS 143-215.1(b)(2) or in Section 309 of the Federal Act. .
11. Penalties for Falsification of Reports
The Clean Water Act provides that any person who knowingly makes any false statement, representation, or
certification in any record or other document submitted or required to be maintained under this permit,including
monitoring reports or reports of compliance or noncompliance shall, upon conviction, be punished by a fine of
not more than $25,000 per violation, or by imprisonment for not more than two years per violation, or by both
[40 CFR 122.41].
12. Annual Performance Reports
Permittees who own or operate facilities that collect or treat municipal or domestic waste shall provide an annual
report to the Permit Issuing Authority and to the users/customers served by the Permittee (NCGS 143-215.1C).
The report shall summarize the performance of the collection or treatment system, as well as the extent to which
the facility was compliant with applicable Federal or State laws, regulations and rules pertaining to water quality.
The report shall be provided no later than sixty days after the end of the calendar or fiscal year, depending upon
which annual period is used for evaluation.
PART III
OTHER REQUIREMENTS
Section A. Construction
The Permittee shall not commence construction of wastewater treatment facilities,nor add to the plant's treatment
capacity,not change the treatment processes) utilized at the treatment plant unless the Division has issued an
Authorization to Construct(AtC)permit. Issuance of an AtC will not occur until Final Plans and Specifications for
the proposed construction have been submitted by the Permittee and approved by the Division.
Section B. Groundwater Monitoring
The Permittee shall,upon written notice from the Director,conduct groundwater monitoring as may be required to
determine the compliance of this NPDES permitted facility with the current groundwater standards.
Section C. Changes in Discharges of Toxic Substances
The Permittee shall notify the Permit Issuing Authority as soon as it knows or has reason to believe (40 CFR 122.42):
a. That any activity has occurred or will occur which would result in the discharge, on a routine or frequent
basis, of any toxic pollutant which is not limited in the permit,if that discharge will exceed the highest of the
following "notification levels";
(1) One hundred micrograms per liter(100 µg/L);
(2) Two hundred micrograms per liter (200 µg/L) for acrolein and acrylonitrile; five hundred micrograms
per liter (500 µg/L) for 2.4-dinitrophenol and for 2-methyl-4.6-dinitrophenol; and one milligram per liter
(1 mg/L) for antimony;
(3) Five times the maximum concentration value reported for that pollutant in the permit application.
b. That any activity has occurred or will occur which would result in any discharge, on a non-routine or
infrequent basis, of a toxic pollutant which is not limited in the permit, if that discharge will exceed the
highest of the following"notification levels";
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(1) ' Five hundred micrograms per liter (500 µg/L);
(2) One milligram per liter 0 mg/L) for antimony;
(3) Ten times the maximum concentration value reported for that pollutant in the permit application.
Section D. Evaluation of Wastewater Discharge Alternatives
The Permittee shall evaluate all wastewater disposal alternatives and pursue the most environmentally sound
alternative of the reasonably cost effective alternatives. If the facility is in substantial non-compliance with the terms
and conditions of the NPDES permit or governing rules,regulations or laws,the Permittee shall submit a report in
such form and detail as required by the Division evaluating these alternatives and a plan of action within 60 days of
notification by the Division.
Section E. Facility Closure Requirements
The Permittee must notify the Division at least 90 days prior to the closure of any wastewater treatment system
covered by this permit. The Division may require specific measures during deactivation of the system to prevent
adverse impacts to waters of the State. This permit cannot be rescinded while any activities requiring this permit
continue at the permitted facility.
PART IV
SPECIAL CONDITIONS FOR MUNICIPAL FACILITIES
Section A. Publicly Owned Treatment Works (POTWs)
All POTWs must provide adequate notice to the Director of the following:
1. Any new introduction of pollutants into the POTW from an indirect discharger which would be subject to
section 301 or 306 of CWA if it were directly discharging those pollutants;and
2. Any substantial change in the volume or character of pollutants being introduced by an indirect discharger
as influent to-that POTW at the time of issuance of the permit.
3. For purposes of this paragraph,adequate notice shall include information on (1) the quality and quantity of
effluent introduced into the POTW, and (2) any anticipated impact of the change on the quantity or quality
of effluent to be discharged from the POTW.
Section B. Municipal Control of Pollutants from Industrial Users
1. Effluent limitations are listed in Part I of this permit. Other pollutants attributable to inputs from
industries using the municipal system may be present in the Permittee's discharge. At such time as
sufficient information becomes available to establish limitations for such pollutants, this permit may be
revised to specify effluent limitations for any or all of such other pollutants in accordance with best
practicable technology or water quality standards.
2. Under no circumstances shall the Permittee allow introduction of the following wastes in the waste
treatment system:
a. Pollutants which create a fire or explosion hazard in the POTW, including, but not limited to,
wastestreams with a closed cup flashpoint of less than 140 degrees Fahrenheit or 60 degrees
Centigrade using the test methods specified in 40 CFR 261.21;
b. Pollutants which will cause corrosive structural damage to the POTW, but in no case Discharges
with pH lower than 5.0,unless the works is specifically designed to accommodate such Discharges;
C. Solid.or viscous pollutants in amounts which will cause obstruction to the flow in the POTW
resulting in Interference;
d. Any pollutant, including oxygen demanding pollutants (BOD, etc.) released in a Discharge at a flow
rate and/or pollutant concentration which will cause Interference with the POTW;
e. Heat in amounts which will inhibit biological activity in the POTW resulting in Interference, but in
no case heat in such quantities that the temperature at the POTW Treatment Plant exceeds 40°C
(104°F)unless the Division,upon request of the POTW,approves alternate temperature limits;
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f. Petroleum oil, nonbiodegradable cutting oil, or products of mineral oil origin in amounts that will ,
cause interference or pass through;
g. Pollutants which result in the presence of toxic gases, vapors, or fumes within the POTW in a
quantity that may cause acute worker health and safety problems;
h. Any trucked or hauled pollutants,except at discharge points designated by the POTW.
3. With regard to the effluent requirements listed in Part I of this permit, it may be necessary for the
Permittee to supplement the requirements of the Federal Pretreatment Standards (40 CFR, Part 403) to
ensure compliance by the Permittee with all applicable effluent limitations. Such actions by the Permittee
may be necessary regarding some or all of the industries discharging to the municipal system.'
4. The Permittee shall require any industrial discharges sending influent to the permitted system to meet
Federal Pretreatment Standards promulgated in response to Section 307(b) of the Act. Prior to accepting
wastewater from any significant industrial user, the Permittee shall either develop and submit to the
Division a Pretreatment Program for approval per 15A NCAC 2H .0907(a) or modify an existing
Pretreatment Program per 15A NCAC 2H.0907(b).
5. This permit shall be modified, or alternatively,revoked and reissued,to incorporate or modify an approved
POTW Pretreatment Program or to include a compliance schedule for the development of a POTW
Pretreatment Program as required under Section 402(b)(8) of the Clean Water Act and implementing
regulations or by the requirements of the approved State pretreatment program,as appropriate.
Section C. Pretreatment Programs
Under authority of sections 307(b) and (c) and 402(b)(8) of the Clean Water Act and implementing regulations 40
CFR Part 403, North Carolina General Statute 143-215.3 (14) and implementing regulations 15A NCAC 2H
.0900, and in accordance with the approved pretreatment program, all provisions and regulations contained and
referenced in the Pretreatment Program Submittal are an enforceable part of this permit.
The Permittee shall operate its approved pretreatment program in accordance with Section 402(b)(8) of the Clean
Water Act, the Federal Pretreatment Regulations 40 CFR Part 403, the State Pretreatment Regulations 15A
NCAC 2H .0900, and the legal authorities, policies, procedures, and financial provisions contained in its
pretreatment program submission and Division approved modifications there of. Such operation shall include
but is not limited to the implementation of the following conditions and requirements:
1. Sewer Use Ordinance (SUO)
The Permittee shall maintain adequate legal authority to implement its approved pretreatment program.
2. Industrial Waste Surveyy(IWS)
The Permittee shall update its Industrial Waste Survey (IWS) to include all users of the sewer collection
system at least once every five years.
3. Monitoring Plan
The Permittee shall implement a Division-approved Monitoring Plan for the collection of facility specific
data to be used in a wastewater treatment plant Headworks Analysis (HWA) for the development of
specific pretreatment local limits. Effluent data from the Plan shall be reported on the DMRs (as required
by Part II,Section D,and Section E.5.).
4. Headworks Analysis A) and Local Limits
The Permittee shall obtain Division approval of a Headworks Analysis (HWA) at least once every five
years, and as required by the Division. Within 180 days of the effective date of this permit (or any
subsequent permit modification) the Permittee shall submit to the Division a written technical evaluation
of the need to revise local limits (i.e., an updated HWA or documentation of why one is not needed) [40
CFR 122.44]. The Permittee shall develop,in accordance with 40 CFR 403.5(c) and 15A NCAC 2H.0909,
specific Local Limits to implement the prohibitions listed in 40 CFR 403.5(a) and (b) and 15A NCAC 2H
.0909.
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5. Industrial User Pretreatment Permits (IUP)&Allocation Tables
In accordance with NCGS 143-215.1,the Permittee shall issue to all significant industrial users,permits for
operation of pretreatment equipment and discharge to the Permittee's treatment works. These permits
shall contain limitations, sampling protocols, reporting requirements, appropriate standard and special
conditions, and compliance schedules as necessary for the installation of treatment and control
technologies to assure that their wastewater discharge will meet all applicable pretreatment standards and
requirements. The Permittee shall maintain a current Allocation Table (AT)which summarizes the results
of the Headworks Analysis (HWA) and the limits from all Industrial User Pretreatment Permits (IUP).
Permitted IUP loadings for each parameter cannot exceed the treatment capacity of the POTW as
determined by the HWA.
6.. Authorization to Construct(AtQ
The Permittee shall ensure that an Authorization to Construct permit (AtC) is issued to all applicable
industrial users for the construction or modification of any pretreatment facility. Prior to the issuance of
an AtC, the proposed pretreatment facility and treatment process must be evaluated for its capacity to
comply with all Industrial User Pretreatment Permit(IUP)limitations.
7. POTW Inspection&Monitoring of their SIUs
The Permittee shall conduct inspection, surveillance,and monitoring activities as described in its Division
approved pretreatment program in order to determine,independent of information supplied by industrial
users,compliance with applicable pretreatment standards. The Permittee must:
a. Inspect all Significant Industrial Users (SIUs)at least once per calendar year;and
b. Sample all Significant Industrial Users (SIUs) at least twice per calendar year for all permit-
limited pollutants, once during the period from January 1 through June 30 and once during the
period from July 1 through December 31,except for organic compounds which shall be sampled
once per calendar year;
8. SIU Self Monitoring and Reporting
The Permittee shall require all industrial users to comply with the applicable monitoring and reporting
requirements outlined in the Division-approved pretreatment program, the industry's pretreatment permit,
or in 15A NCAC 211.0908.
9: Enforcement Response Plan (E-BZ
The Permittee shall enforce and obtain appropriate remedies for violations of all pretreatment standards
promulgated pursuant to section 307(b) and (c) of the Clean Water Act (40 CFR 405 et. seq.),prohibitive
discharge standards as set forth in 40 CFR 403.5 and 15A NCAC 2H .0909, and specific local limitations.
All enforcement actions shall be consistent with the Enforcement Response Plan (ERP) approved by the
Division.
10. Pretreatment Annual Reports (PAR)
The Permittee shall report to the Division in accordance with 15A NCAC 2H .0908. In lieu of submitting
annual reports, Modified Pretreatment Programs developed under 15A NCAC 2H .0904 (b) may be
required to meet with Division personnel periodically to discuss enforcement of pretreatment requirements
and other pretreatment implementation issues.
For all other active pretreatment programs; the Permittee shall submit two copies of a Pretreatment
Annual Report (PAR) describing its pretreatment activities over the previous twelve months to the
Division at the following address:
NC DENR/DWQ/Pretreatment Unit
1617 Mail Service Center
Raleigh,NC 27699-1617
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PDES Permit Standard Conditions ,
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These reports shall be submitted according to a schedule established by the Director and shall contain the
following:
a.) Narrative
A brief discussion of reasons for, status of, and actions taken for all Significant Industrial
Users (SIUs)in Significant Non-Compliance(SNC);
b.) Pretreatment Program SummM(PP$�
A pretreatment program summary(PPS) on specific forms approved by the Division;
c.) Significant Non-Compliance Report SNCR)
The nature of the violations and the actions taken or proposed to correct the violations on
specific forms approved by the Division;
d.) Industrial Data Summary Forms (IDSF'),
Monitoring,data from samples collected by both the POTW and the Significant Industrial
User (SIU). These analytical results must be reported on Industrial Data Summary Forms
(IDSF) or other specific format approved by the Division;
e.) Other Information
Copies of the POTW's allocation table,new or modified enforcement compliance schedules,
public notice of SIUs in SNC, and any other information, upon request, which in the.
opinion of the Director is needed to determine compliance with the pretreatment
implementation requirements of this permit;
11. Public Notice
The Permittee shall publish annually a list of Significant Industrial Users (SIUs) that were in Significant
Non-Compliance (SNC) as defined in the Permittee's Division-approved Sewer Use Ordinance with
applicable pretreatment requirements and standards during the previous twelve month period. This list
shall be published within four months of the applicable twelve-month period.
12. Record Keeping
The Permittee shall retain for a minimum of three years records of monitoring activities and results, along
with support information including general records,water quality records,and records of industrial impact
on the POTW.
13. Funding and Financial Report
The Permittee shall maintain adequate funding and staffing levels to accomplish the objectives of its
approved pretreatment program.
14. Modification to Pretreatment Programs
Modifications to the approved pretreatment program including but not limited to local limits
modifications, POTW monitoring of their Significant Industrial Users (SIUs), and Monitoring Plan
modifications,shall be considered a permit modification and shall be governed by 15 NCAC 2H .0114 and
15A NCAC 2H.0907.
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4
-43MR�
NCDENR
North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources
Division of Water Quality
Beverly Eaves Perdue Coleen H. Sullins Dee Freeman
Governor Director Secretary
November 1, 2010
JEFFREY S FERGUSON PE
ENVIRONMENTAL ENGINEER
UNIMIN CORPORATION
136 CRYSTAL DRIVE
SPRUCE PINE NC 28777
Subject: Receipt of permit renewal application
NPDES PermifNC00:$ 62®r;
Crystal Operation
Mitchell County
Dear Mr. Ferguson:
The NPDES Unit received your permit renewal application on September 1, 2010. A member of the
NPDES Unit will review your application. They will contact you if additional information is requited to complete
your permit renewal. You should expect to receive a draft permit approximately 30-45 days before your existing
permit expires.
If you have any additional questions concerning renewal of the subject permit,please contact Jackie Nowell
at [phone].
Sincerely,
Dina Sprinkle
Point Source Branch vw� dti:siv,r„ny;.k.;wcrr ty`.
1
cc: CENTRAL FILES-01
01 e�-v'Ue Z�±e.7 can .fife/Surface Water Protection `>. LAS!HTUE-11,1
NPDES UnitV -- 4 2010R QUALLE RcG piJAL OFF:CF
1617 Mail Service Center,Raleigh,North Carolina 27699-1617
Location:512 N.Salisbury St.Raleigh,North Carolina 27604 ope
Phone:[phone] i FAX:[phone] Customer Service:1-877-623-6748 NorthCarolina
Internet:www.ncwaterquality.org
An Equal Opportunity\Affirmative Action Employer

e®�R
Umn IBM In
r Environmental Affairs
Unimin Corporation
136 Crystal Drive•Spruce Pine,NC 28777
(PHONE)828/766-6081•(FAQ 828/765-4755
August 30,2010
Mrs.Dina Sprinkle
NCDENR/DWQ/Point Source Branch
1617 Mail Service Center
Raleigh,North Carolina 27699-1617
Subject: NPDES Renewal Requests for Unimin Corporation—Crystal,
Quartz/Feldspar,Red Hill,and Schoolhouse Quartz Facilities
NPDES Permit Nos.NC0084620,NC0000175,NC0085839,and NC0000361
Dear Mrs. Sprinkle:
Please accept this letter as a request for renewal of the following NPDES Permits:
Unimin Corporation-Cry§Facility NPDES Permit No. -G0 i W62 a
Unimin Corporation—Quartz/Feldspar Facility NPDES No. NC0000175
Unimin Corporation—Red Hill Facility NPDES No.NC0085839, and
Unimin Corporation—Schoolhouse Quartz Facility NPDES No.NC0000361
Enclosed please find one signed original and two copies of the NCDENR Short
Form C for the Crystal, Red Hill and Schoolhouse Quartz Facilities and EPA Application
Form 1 & Form 2C for the Quartz/Feldspar Facility. It is my understanding that there are
no fees associated with the renewal requests. There have been no changes to the treatment
plants at any of the facilities since issuance of the latest permits.
Please note that portions of the applications have been stamped Confidential.
Unimin Corporation is requesting that this information be treated as confidential and
thereby protected from public disclosure.
Unimin believes that such information if made public, would divulge technology,
methods and processes entitled to protection as trade secrets of Unimin Corporation.
Accordingly, we are requesting confidentiality of this information under State Statute.143-.
215.3.
LllVll ILL% I I1Ii�
I NOV - 4 2010
WATER QUALITY SECTION
I > b ASHEVILLE REGIONAL OFFICE

Mrs.Dina Sprinkle
August 30,2010
Page 2
In support of this request,Unimin Corporation herein avers:
A. The production of high purity quartz is a highly competitive industry in which
market position is very much dependent on possession of the latest technology and
process development.
B. The processes and technology associated with Unimin's production of high purity
quartz have been consistently treated by Unimin in its operating policies,procedures
and practices as proprietary and confidential trade secrets.
C. Unimin believes that such processes and technology are in its sole possession and
are not generally available to Unimin's competitors or the public.
D. Such confidential processes and technology which have been developed at great
time and expense to Unimin are the property of Unimin and represent a great value
and competitive advantage to its market position and are an integral part of
Unimin's continuous quartz production operation.
E. The unprotected divulgence of such confidential information would result in an
irreparable harm to the competitive position of Unimin Corporation in this market.
In addition, Unimin Corporation would like to request the following
revisions/corrections to each NPDES Permit.
During the most recent amendment to the Crystal NPDES Permit No. NC0084620,
the upstream/downstream sampling locations were inadvertently changed to "U-upstream at
Altapass Road" and "D-downstream at the footbridge in the Town of Spruce Pine."
Unimin would like to request that this be changed back to "U-upstream at least 50 feet" and
"D-downstream at least 300 feet." Also, Unimin would like to request that the pH be
sampled at the effluent only and remove the unnecessary requirement to sample upstream
and downstream daily.
Unimin would like to request that the requirements to sample Oil and Grease be
removed from both Quartz/Feldspar NPDES Permit No. NC0000175 and Schoolhouse
NPDES Permit No. NC0000361. There have been no hits at either facility and this
monitoring requirement was imposed due to stating that there are possible leaks and drips
from mobile equipment as all facilities have. Unimin does not believe Oil and Grease to be
present at the discharge and would like to request that this monitoring requirement be
removed from both permits.
Unimin would like to request that the requirement to sample ammonia monthly be
removed from the Red Hill NPDES Permit No.NCO085839 as the facility no longer utilizes
ammonia in any process or research.

e
Mrs.Dina Sprinkle
August 30,2010
Page 2
If you have any questions regarding this matter or require further information,
please do not hesitate to contact me at(828) 766-6081 ext. 13.
Sincerely,
Jeffrey S. Ferguson,P.E.
Environmental Engineer
UNIMIN CORPORATION
Enclosures
c: EA Files,Scott Fortner(SQ),Dennis Johnson(RH),Mike Jussila(K),Karl Kuchta(cover letter),Doug
Myers(QU/SQ),Sandra Phillips(XL),Steve Wilson(QU),Mike Vencill(SQ)

t
NPDES PERMj7' e__°Pj jCAT1O1q — SHORT FORM — Minor X ndustrian
Minor industrial, manufacturing and commercial facilities.
-Mail the complete application to:
N. C. Department of Environment and Natural Resources
Division of Water Quality / NPDES Unit
1617 ]trail Service Center, Raleigh, NC 27699-1617
NPDES Permit Number INCO084620
Please print or type.
1. Contact Information:
Owner Name Unimin Corporation
Facility Name Unimin Corporation- Crystal Facility
Mailing Address P. O. Box 588
City Spruce Pine
State / Zip Code NC / 28777
Telephone Number [phone]
Fax Number [phone]
e-mail Address n/a
2. Location of facility producing discharge:
Check here if same as above ❑
Street Address or State Road 136 Crystal Drive
City Spruce Pine
State / Zip Code NC / 28777
County Mitchell
3. Operator Information:
Name of the firm, consultant or other entity that operates the facility. (Note that this is not referring to the
Operator in Responsible Charge or ORC)
Name Unimin Corporation- Crystal Facility
Mailing Address P. O. Box 588
City Spruce Pine
mw
State / Zip Code NC / 28777
Telephone Number [phone] SEP
Fax Number [phone] Dr-- s���E%Y
4. Ownership Status:
Federal ❑ State ❑ Private ® Public ❑
Page 1 of 5 C-MI 10108

YqPDES PERK H'K ---D P'LXCATHON — SHORT DORM — Manor Industrial
Minor industrial, manufacturing and commercial facilities.
5. Standard Industrial Classification (SIC) code(s): 1459
6. Number of employees: 53
7. Describe the treatment system List all installed waste treatment components with capacities,
describe the processes that generate wastewaters. If the space provided is not sufficient attach a
separate sheet of paper with the system description.
See attached CONFIDENTIAL operating status.
S. Is facility covered under federal effluent limitation guidelines? No ® Yes ❑
If yes, specify the category?
9. Principal product(s) produced: High Purity Quartz
Principal raw material(s) consumed: N/A
Briefly describe the manufacturing process(es):
See attached CONFIDENTIAL operating status.
Page 2 of 5 C-MI 10/08

NPDES PERI�fii I11 __aPLICATION - SHORT FORD[ Minor Indus$ria2
Minor industrial, manufacturing and commercial facilities.
10. Amount of principal product produced or raw material consumed
List specific amounts consumed and/or units of roduction over the last three ears
Product Produced or Raw Material Product Produced or Raw Material
Consumed Consumed
AVERAGE PEAK
per Day
per Month
per Year I *Confidential production data will be submitted separately.
11. Frequency of discharge: Continuous ® Intermittent ❑
If intermittent:
Days per week discharge occurs: 7 Duration: _ 24 hrs/day
12. Types of wastewater discharged to surface waters only
Discharge Flow
(GALLONS PER DAY
Sanitary - monthly average 0
Utility water, etc. - monthly average 0
Process water - monthly average 269,600 (discharged via The Feldspar Corporation's
NPDES Permit No. NC0000353)
Stormwater- monthly average 0
Other-monthly average
Explain: 0
Monthly Average 269,600 (discharged via The Feldspar Corporation's
total discharge (all types) NPDES Permit No. NC0000353)
13. Number of separate discharge points: 2 Outfall Identification number(s) 001& 002
14. Name of receiving stream(s) (Provide a map showing the exact location of each outfall, including
latitude and longitude):
North Toe River
Page 3 of 5 C-MI 10/08

KPDES PERMH7 ..;IPILICATROM - SHORT FORM - Minor Industrial
Minor industrial, manufacturing and commercial facilities.
Effluent Data [for new or proposed discharges]
Provide data for the parameters listed. Temperature and pH shall be grab samples,for all other parameters 24-hour
composite sampling shall be used.If more than one analysis is reported, report daily maximum and monthly average.
If only one analysis is reported, report as daily maximum.
NOTE;Permittees requesting renewal should complete the table OAFLI'fbr the parameters
currently monitored. Summarize the ast 3 years of effluent data.
Parameter Daily Monthly Units of
Maximum Average Measurement
Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD5) N/A
Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) N/A
Total Organic Carbon N/A
Total Suspended Solids N/A (discharge via TFC Permit NC0000353)
Ammonia as N N/A
Temperature (Summer) N/A
Temperature (Winter) N/A
pH N/A (discharge via TFC Permit NC0000353)
Fecal Coliform (If sanitary waste is N/A
present)
Total Residual Chlorine (if chlorine is N/A
used)
16. List all permits, construction approvals and/or applications (check all that apply and provide permit
numbers or check none if not applicable):
Type Permit Number Type Permit Number
Hazardous Waste (RCRA) NESHAPS (CAA)
UIC (SDWA) Ocean Dumping (MPRSA)
NPDES NCO084620 Dredge or fill (Section 404 or CWA)
PSD (CAA) Other NC Air Permit 07018R12
Non-attainment program (CAA)
17. List any chemicals that may be discharged (Please list and explain source and potential
amounts.)
See attached CONFIDENTIAL operating status.
Page 4 of 5 C-MI 10/08

NPDES PERMIT ..IPLHCATHOlq - SHORT FORM ,,., - Minor Industrial
Minor industrial, manufacturing and commercial facilities.
18. Is this facility located on Indian country? (check one)
Yes ❑ No
19. Applicant Certification
I certify that I am familiar with the information contained in the application and that to the
best of my knowledge and belief such information is true, complete, and accurate.
Andrew G. BradleV SVP Environmental Affairs
Printed name of Person Signing Title
Signature of Applicant Date
North Carolina General Statute 143-215.6 (b)(2) provides that: Any person who knowingly makes any false
statement representation, or certification in any application, record, report, plan, or other document files or
required to be maintained under Article 21 or regulations of the Environmental Management Commission
implementing that Article, or who falsifies, tampers with, or knowingly renders inaccurate any recording or
monitoring device or method required to be operated or maintained under Article 21 or regulations of the
Environmental Management Commission implementing that Article, shall be guilty of a misdemeanor punishable
by a fine not to exceed $25,000, or by imprisonment not to exceed six months, or by both. (18 U.S.C. Section
1001 provides a punishment by a fine of not more than$25,000 or imprisonment not more than 5 years, or both,
for a similar offense.)
Page 5 of 5 C-MI 10/08

Unimin Corporation—Crystal Facility

,i

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Crystal FaCHRoty Facility X
Location .
State Grid/Quad: D 10 NE/Spruce Pine,NC Permitted Flow: 0.553 MGD not to scale
Latitude: 350 54' 12"(001);35°53'55"(002)
Longitude: 82'03'25"(001);s2`03'45"(002) NPDES Permit No.NCO084620
Receiving Stream: North Toe River Sub-Basin: 04-03-06 fX0 r:th
Drainage Basin: French Broad River Basin Stream Class: C Trout Mitchell Count

== Environmental Affairs
Unimila Corporation
136 Crystal Drive•Spruce Pine,NC 28777
(PHONE)828/766-6081•(FAQ 828/765•4755
August 30,2010
CERTIFIED MAIL
RETURN RECEIPT REQUESTED
Mrs.Dina Sprinkle
NCDENR/DWQ/Point Source Branch
1617 Mail Service Center
Raleigh,North Carolina 27699-1617
Subject Unimin Corporation's Crystal,Red Hill&Schoolhouse Quartz
Facilities'Production Data
NPDES Permit Nos.NC0084620,NC0085839&NC 0000361
Dear Mrs. Sprinkle:
Please find enclosed production data for Unimin Corpotation'sfr
IstakRed Hill and
Schoolhouse Quartz Facilities (NPDES Permit Nos. J T-0084'- NC0085839 and
NC0000361). This information is being submitted to satisfy the requirements of the
NPDES renewal applications submitted concurrently (renewal applications dated August 30,
2010).
Please note that this information has been stamped Confidential. Unimin
Corporation is requesting that this information be treated as confidential and thereby
protected from public disclosure.
Unimin believes that such information if made public, would divulge technology,
methods and processes entitled to protection as trade secrets of Unimin Corporation.
Accordingly, we are requesting confidentiality of this information under State Statute 143-
215.3.
In support of this request,Unimin Corporation herein avers: "L _ -�-m
A. The production of high purity quartz is a highly competitive industry in whic�:•--t J
market position is very much dependent on possession of the latest technology
Came .F
f
process development
d s:
LU
. C 9}iy '• v7 �i�'.
Y T

Mrs. Dina Sprinkle
August 30,2010
Page 2
B. The processes and technology associated with Unimin's production of high purity
quartz have been consistently treated by Unimin in its operating policies,procedures
and practices as proprietary and confidential trade secrets.
C. Unimin believes that such processes and technology are in its sole possession and
are not generally available to Unimin's competitors or the public.
D. Such confidential processes and technology which have been developed at great
time and expense to Unimin are the property of Unimin and represent a great value
and competitive advantage to its market position and are an integral part of
Unimin's continuous quartz production operation.
E. The unprotected divulgence of such confidential information would result in an
irreparable harm to the competitive position of Unimin Corporation in this market.
If you have any questions regarding this matter or require further information,
please do not hesitate to contact me at(828) 765-1114 ext. 13.
Sincerely,
i'
Jeffrey S.Ferguson,P. E.
Environmental Engineer
UNRAI N CORPORATION
c: FA Files,Mke Jussila,Karl Kuchta,Sandy Phillips,Mike Vencill

TO A L
CONKDENTRAL

'.
WAIF
Q R pI Michael F.Easley,Governor
00V 2 6 2007 William G.Ross Jr.,Secretary
r i North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources
WATER QUALITY SECTION Coleen H.Sullins,Director
ASHEVILLE REGIONAL OFFICE Division of Water Quality
November 21,1007
Mr. Andrew G. Bradley
Vice President Environmental Affairs
Unimin Corporation
P. O. Box 588
Spruce Pine, North Carolina 28777
Subject: NPDES Permit Modification -Draft
Permit�C00 4620,
Unimin Corp—Crystal Facility
Mitchell County
Dear Mr. Bradley:
The Division has received your permit modification request regarding expansion of the Unimin
Corporation — Crystal facility from a flow of 0.360 MGD to 0.553 MGD. The Division staff has
evaluated the Engineering Alternative Analysis (EAA) and concurs with the recommendations of the
EAA. The Division has approved the requested flow of 0.553 MGD and proportional total suspended
solids of 133.0 lb/day.
It should-,be notedrthat the North Toe River is impaired for turbidity. Therefore, the expansion
should not have any further impact on the turbidity in the North Toe River. In the event that the turbidity
impairment is worsen as a result of this discharge, this permit shall be modified, or- alternatively
revoked, and reissued to incorporate limitations sufficient to protect the receiving waters (see Special
Condition A. (4)).
At this time, the Division is submitting a notice to the newspapers of general circulation in
Mitchell County, inviting comments from you or your representative, the public and other agencies on
the draft permit. The notice should be published on or about November 21, 2007. Please submit any
comments to me no later than December 28, 2007. Comments should be sent to the address listed at the
bottom of this page. If no adverse comments are received from the public or from you, this permit will
likely be issued in January, with an effective date of March 1, 2008. If you have any questions or
comments concerning this draft permit, you may contact me at the telephone number(919) 733-5083 ext
508.
Sincerely,
Agyeman Adu-Poku
Environmental Engineer
Western NPDES Program
cc: NPDES File
AThWTO -e onal Office/Surface Water Protection
EPA Region IV/Marshall Hyatt No"tltCarolina
Aquatic Toxicology Unit atma!!y
North Carolina Division of Water Quality 1617 Mail Service Center Raleigh,NC 27699-1617 Phone[phone] Customer Service
Internet: www.ncwaterquality.org Location: 512 N.Salisbury St.' Raleigh,NC 27604 Fax [phone]
An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer—50%Recycled/10%Post Consumer Paper

�0F W A TF9Q Michael F.Easley, ove d i�u'"1 k
�0 G William G.Ross Jr.,Secretary
rNorth Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources
-� Coleen H.Sullins,Director
iQ ision of Water Quality
November 21, 2007 D v U
Mr. Andrew G. Bradley NOV 2 6 2007
Vice President Environmental Affairs
Unimin Corporation
WATER QUALITY SECTION
P. O. Box 588 ASHEVILLE REGIONAL OFFICE
Spruce Pine, North Carolina 28777
Subject: NPDES Permit Modification-Draft
Permit NCO084620
Unimin Corp—Crystal Facility
Mitchell County
Dear Mr. Bradley:
The Division has received your permit modification request regarding expansion of the Unimin
Corporation — Crystal facility from a flow of 0.360 MGD to 0.553 MGD. The Division staff has
evaluated the Engineering Alternative Analysis (EAA) and concurs with the recommendations of the
EAA. The Division has approved the requested flow of 0.553 MGD and proportional total suspended
solids of 133.0 lb/day.
' lr=the'ev nrthat�violations of the turbidity standard of the North Carolina water quality standards
occur as a result of this discharge, this permit shall be modified, or alternatively revoked, and reissued-to
incorporate limitations sufficient to protect the receiving waters (see Special Condition A. (4)).
At this time, the Division is submitting a notice to the newspapers of general circulation in
Mitchell County, inviting comments from you or your representative, the public-and other agencies on
the draft permit. The notice should be published on or about November 21, 2001.Please submit any
comments tome no later than December 28,2007. Comments should be sent to.the address listed at the
bottom of this page. If no adverse comments are received from the public or from you, this permit will
likely be issued in January, with an effective date of March 1, 2008. If you have any questions or
comments concerning this draft permit, you may contact me at the telephone number(919)733-5083 ext
508.
Sincerely,
�lh .
gyemankdu-Poku
Environmental Engineer
Western NPDES Program
cc: NPDES File
Asheville�egional3Office/;surface Water Protection
EPA Region IV/Marshall Hyatt
Aquatic Toxicology Unit None Carolina
Ntmally
North Carolina Division of Water Quality 1617 Mail Service Center Raleigh,NC 27699-1617 Phone[phone] Customer Service
Internet: www.ncwaterquality.org Location: 512 N.Salisbury St. Raleigh,NC 27604 Fax [phone]
An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer—50%Recycled/10%Post Consumer Paper

Per Number: NCO084620
STATE-OF NORTH CAROLINA
DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENT AND NATURAL RESOURCES
DIVISION OF WATER QUALITY
PERMIT
TO DISCHARGE WASTEWATER UNDER THE
NATIONAL POLLUTANT DISCHARGE ELIMINATION SYSTEM
In compliance with the provisions of North Carolina General Statute 143-215.1, other lawful
standards and regulations promulgated and adopted by the North Carolina Environmental
Management Commission, and the Federal Water Pollution Control Act, as amended,the
Unimin Corporation
is hereby authorized to discharge wastewater from a facility located at
Crystal Operation
At NCSR 1117, east of NC Highway 226
Southeast of Spruce Pine
Mitchell County
to receiving waters designated as the North Toe River in the French Broad River Basin in
accordance with effluent limitations,monitoring requirements, and other conditions set forth in
Parts I,II, III and IV hereof.
This permit shall become effective
This permit and authorization to discharge shall expire at midnight on February 28, 2011.
Signed this day
DRAFT
Coleen H. Sullins,Director
Division of Water Quality
By Authority of the Environmental Management Commission
1

Permit N_ _ber: NCO084620
SUPPLEMENT TO PERMIT COVER SHEET
All previous NPDES Permits issued to.this facility, whether for operation or discharge are
hereby revoked, and as of this issuance, any previously issued permit bearing this number is no
longer effective. Therefore, the exclusive authority to operate and discharge from this facility
arises under the permit conditions,requirements, terms, and provisions included herein.
The Unimin Corporation Crystal Operation is hereby authorized to:
1. Continue operation of a wastewater treatment plant for process wastewater from mineral
extraction consisting of-
• mix/reactor tanks
• lime and polymer feed systems
• thickener
• drum filter
• pH adjustment and
• flow measurement.
The Crystal Operation is located at NCSR 1117 east of NC 226, southeast of Spruce Pine,
Mitchell County, and
2. Upon issuance of an Authorization to Construct permit from the Division of Water
Quality and submission of the engineer's certification for installation of a pump station
for effluent discharge, an emergency pond and a discharge outfall line, operate and
3. Discharge treated process water from said treatment works through outfal1001 and
storinwater through outfall 002 at the locations specified on the attached map into the
North Toe River,which is classified C Trout waters, in the French Broad River Basin.
2

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Crystal Facility Facility
Location
State Grid/Ouad: D 10 NE/Spruce Pine,NC Permitted Flow: 0.553 MGD not to scale
Latitude: 35'54' 12'(001);35°53'55"(002)
Longitude: 82'03'25"(001);s2 003'45"(002) NPDES Permit No. NCO084620
Receiving Stream: North Toe River Sub-Basin: 04-03-06 No
Drainage Drain a Basin: French Broad River Basin Stream Class: C Trout Mitchell Count

Permit NiL-_-_er: NCO084620
A. (1). EFFLUENT LIMITATIONS AND MONITORING REQUIREMENTS
During the period beginning on the effective date of the permit and lasting until expiration,the
permittee is authorized to discharge process wastewater from mineral extraction of ore from
outfall 001. Such discharges shall be limited and monitored by the permittee as specified below:
` $' :.c i : at``" ts`'C' „t pizi+t° Z e> =4i*:e v. �*" A ?' i �� a a 1.,
x`rr Aa `fir 3 .x 'c +r 9 wi �:;� ."'_{ a.'�x"xx"i `�'w '"'` >,"us' ,�.rµ ',�''E �.,���tru 'k-a.'� t`�*' �` 2`:
'� As sda3� sr Cv �K frM o, 3
w t xEFFLUENT LIM�ITATI®NS MONK'ORING REQUIgZEMENTS8
s.3'" .✓.,c�a �'�' ha 5 °7z7 -
�„gva t � "��.* i
',","T,xr. EFFLUENZ` '
n u Monthly "D Measuremen Sample Srnple
C C'PERISTICS x � #
Avera eMaximum Frequency �e Location
.." ;�.� � ,�a?�=.k•r,� .w,,�� .,e,s. � �� �n� ,��� �x����� ��: ��. .� � ,rr«ae,. gas"`? its_�;M�, ,��- '.
Flow 0.553 MGD Continuous Recording I or E
Total-Fluoride 50.01b/day 100.0 lb/day Weekly Composite E, U, D
Total Suspended Solids 133.0 lb/day 266.0 lb/day Weekly Composite E
Settleable Solids Daily Grab E '
Turbidity2 Weekly Grab E, U, D
pHs Daily Grab E, U, D
Chlorides4 Quarterly Composite E
Chronic Toxicity5 Quarterly Composite E
Notes:
1. Sample locations: E- Effluent, I- Influent, U-upstream at Altapass Road, D-
downstream at the footbridge in the Town of Spruce Pine. Instream samples shall
be grab samples and shall be conducted weekly.
2. This discharge shall not cause the turbidity of the receiving waters to exceed 10
NTU. If the turbidity exceeds 10 NTU due to natural conditions, the discharge
shall not cause any increase in turbidity.
3. The pH shall not be less than 6.0 standard units nor greater than 10.0 standard
units.
4. Chloride shall be monitored quarterly during the same months as toxicity testing.
5. Chronic Toxicity (Ceriodaphnia) Pass/Fail at 2.0%: January, April, July and
October. See Special Conditions A (2).
There shall be no discharge of floating solids or visible foam in other than trace
amounts.
3

Permit N: _`ber: NCO084620
A. (2). CHRONIC TOXICITY PERMIT LIMIT(QRTRLY)
The effluent discharge shall at no.time_exhibit observable inhibition of reproduction or significant
mortality to Ceriodaphnia dubia at an effluent concentration of 2.0%.
The permit holder shall perform at a minimum, ua� rterlu monitoring using test procedures outlined in.
the"North Carolina Ceriodaphnia Chronic Effluent Bioassay Procedure,"Revised February 1998,or
subsequent versions or"North Carolina Phase II Chronic Whole Effluent Toxicity Test Procedure'
(Revised-February 1998)or subsequent versions.The tests will be performed during the months of
January,April,July and October. Effluent sampling for this testing shall be performed at the NPDES
permitted final effluent discharge below all treatment processes.
If the test procedure performed as the first test of any single quarter results in a failure or ChV below
the permit limit,then multiple-concentration testing shall be performed at a minimum,in each of the
two following months as described in"North Carolina Phase II Chronic Whole Effluent Toxicity Test
Procedure"(Revised-February 1998) or subsequent versions.
The chronic value for multiple concentration tests will be determined using the geometric mean of the
highest concentration having no detectable impairment of reproduction or survival and the lowest
concentration that does have a detectable impairment of reproduction or survival. The definition of
"detectable impairment,"collection methods,exposure regimes,and further statistical methods are
specified in the"North Carolina Phase H Chronic Whole Effluent Toxicity Test Procedure"(Revised-
February 1998)or subsequent versions.
All toxicity testing results required as part of this permit condition will be entered on the Effluent
Discharge Monitoring Form(MR-1)for the months in which tests were performed,using the parameter
code TGP3B for the pass/fail results and THP313 for the Chronic Value. Additionally,DWQ Form AT-3
(original)is to be sent to the following address:
Attention: North Carolina Division of Water Quality
Environmental Sciences Section
_. 1621 Mail Service Center
Raleigh,North Carolina 27699-1621
Completed Aquatic Toxicity Test Forms shall be filed with the Environmental Sciences Section no later
than 30 days after the end of the reporting period for which the report is made.
Test data shall be complete,accurate,include all supporting chemical/physical measurements and all
concentration/response data,and be certified by laboratory supervisor and ORC or approved designate
signature. Total residual chlorine of the effluent toxicity sample must be measured and reported if
chlorine is employed for disinfection of the waste stream.
Should there be no discharge of flow from the facility during a month in which toxicity monitoring is
required,the permittee will complete the information located at the top of the aquatic toxicity(AT)test
form indicating the facility name,permit number,pipe number,county,and the month/year of the
report with the notation of"No Flow"in the comment area of the form. The report shall be submitted to
the Environmental Sciences Section at the address cited above.
Should the permittee fail to monitor during a month in which toxicity monitoring is required,
monitoring will be required during the following month.
Should any test data from this monitoring requirement or tests performed by the North Carolina
Division of Water Quality indicate potential impacts to the receiving stream,this permit may be re-
opened and modified to include alternate monitoring,requirements or limits.
NOTE: Failure to achieve test conditions as specified in the cited document,such as minimum
control organism survival,minimum control organism reproduction,and appropriate environmental
controls,shall constitute an invalid test and will require immediate follow-up testing to be completed
no later than the last day of the month following the month of the initial monitoring.
4

Permit Nu_--._er: NCO084620
A. (3). BIOCIDES
The permittee shall not use any biocides except those approved in conjunction with the
permit application. The permittee shall'notify the Director in writing not later than ninety
(90) days prior to instituting use of any additional biocide used in cooling systems,which
may be toxic'to aquatic life other than those previously reported to the Division of Water .
Quality. Such notification shall include completion of Biocide.Worksheet Form 101 and a
map locating the discharge point and receiving stream.
A. (4). TURBIDITY REOPENER
In the event that violations of the turbidity standard of the North Carolina Water Quality
Standards occur as a result of this discharge,this permit shall be modified,or alternately,
revoked and reissued to incorporate limitations sufficient to protect the receiving waters.
A. (5). SOLIDS DISPOSAL
Solids removed or resulting from the wastewater treatment process shall be contained and
disposed of in such a manner as to prevent any contamination of the surface waters of the
State.
A. (6). FLUORIDE (WATER QUALITY STANDARD) REOPENER
This permit shall be modified,or revoked and reissued to incorporate new fluoride effluent
limitations in the event that acute or chronic bioassay testing or other studies results in a
change in the North Carolina Water Quality Standard•for fluoride.
A. (7). FLUORIDE (PRODUCTION CHANGE) REOPENER
This permit may be modified,or revoked and reissued to incorporate new,limitations in the
event that production changes are.requested or should any new fluoride using discharge
request to locate on the North Toe River.
•A. (8). ADDITIONAL NOTIFICATION AND MONITORING (RELIABILITY)
REQUIREMENTS
The following measures will be taken in lieu of providing an additional thickener: Unimin
Corporation Crystal Operation will notify the Asheville Regional Office,Telephone (704)
251-6208,prior to taking any wastewater treatment unit out of service,if such action could
result in non-retention of inadequately treated effluent or an out of compliance discharge.
Whenever any unit is removed from service,whether for maintenance or due to failure of
the unit,the Company shall immediately institute daily monitoring for Total Suspended
Solids and Fluorides (in addition to the parameters normally monitored on a daily basis).
The Company will cease all wastewater related manufacturing operations until such time as
the wastewater treatment unit is operational,whenever the wastewater treatment system
can no longer adequately treat or store the wastewater,so as to prevent an out of
compliance discharge.
Additionally,Unimin Corporation must provide,and install an additional effluent.pump
station prior to initiating discharge to.the North Toe River.
5

Permit N—u.ber: NCO084620
PART II
STORMWATER`MONITORING,CONTROLS AND LIMITATIONS FOR PERMITTED
DISCHARGES
SECTION A.,STORMWATER BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES (BMPS)PLAN
1.The permittee shall implement stormwater BMPs to ensure that contaminants do not
enter surface waters via stormwater that comes in contact with any unstabilized
overburden,raw materials,intermediate products,finished products,byproducts or waste
products located on the site covered by this permit.A BMP Plan shall be developed in
accordance with the requirements of this section. The BMP Plan requirement, or portions of
the plan requirement, may be met by utilizing appropriate requirements in other
documented plans specific to the permitted facility.
2. Management of Stormwater Runoff and Runon.The permittee shall maintain stormwater
BMPs for land disturbance areas and outside process areas. In addition, controls should be
used to limit or isolate selected land disturbance and process areas and limit the amount of
off site stormwater runon to those areas. Appropriate Best Management Practices (BMPs)
should be used to divert,infiltrate, reuse or otherwise manage stormwater runoff and
runon in a manner that reduces pollutants in stormwater discharges leaving the site.
Appropriate BMPs may include but are not limited to:vegetative swales,berms,use of
reclaimed mine areas, and reuse of collected stormwater (such as for an industrial process
or as an irrigation source).
3.BMP Controls Inspection and Maintenance.All stormwater BMPs shall be inspected by
or under the direction of the permittee at least once every seven calendar days and within
24 hours after any storm event that results in a discharge.The BMPs implemented.shall be
operated and maintained so that they are cleaned out when the sediment storage capacity
has been reduced by 50%.If any visible sedimentation is leaving the property, corrective
action shall be taken to reduce.the discharge of sediments. Visible sedimentation found
offsite shall be recorded with a brief explanation as to the measures taken to prevent future
releases as well as any measures taken to remove the sediment that left the site.All other
stormwater specific controls (e.g. oil/water separators) shall be inspected and qualitatively
monitored on a semiannual schedule, once in the fall (September-November) and once
during the spring (April June). A log of sampling data and of activities taken to implement
BMPs associatedvith the vehicle maintenance activities shall be maintained and
incorporated into the BMP Plan and kept onsite for the duration of the permit term and
made available to the Director upon request.
4. Erosion and Sedimentation Control. The permittee shall implement the management
practices and the erosion and sedimentation control measures that are included in the
mining permit or erosion and sedimentation control permit issued by the Division of Land
Resources. Compliance with the issued permit is considered a requirement of,this permit.
Any deviation from the issued permit, or amendments to the issued permit, that impacts
6

Permit Ni,-_ .)er: NCO084620
water quality shall constitute a violation of the terms and conditions of this permit.A
signed copy of the issued permit including the approved erosion and sedimentation control
measures and the.reclamation plan shall be maintained on the'site at all times. Once an area
is released by the Division of Land Resources in accordance with.NCGS Chapter 74, Article
7,it shall no longer be subject to this permit.
5.Preventive`Maintenance Inspections and Good Housekeeping Practices. Equipment
utilized during mining activity on a site must be operated and maintained in such a manner
as to prevent potential or actual pollution of the surface water or ground waters of the state.
Fuels;lubricants, coolants, and hydraulic fluids, or any other petroleum products,shall not
be discharged on the ground or into surface waters. Spent fluids shall be disposed of in a
manner so as not to enter the surface waters or ground waters of the state and in
accordance with applicable federal disposal regulations. Any spilled fluids shall be cleaned
up to the maximum extent pracficable-and disposed of in a manner that,does not allow their
entry into the surface waters or ground waters of the state.
6. Secondary Containment. The permittee shall provide secondary containment for bulk
storage of liquid materials, storage of Section'313 of Title III of the Superfund Amendments
and Reauthorization Act (SARA)water priority chemicals,or storage of hazardous liquids
substances to prevent leaks and spills from contaminating stormwater runoff.If the
secondary containment devices are connected directly to stormwater conveyance systems,
the connection shall be controlled by manually activated valves or other similar devices
(which shall-be secured with a locking mechanism) and any stormwater that accumulates in
the containment area shall be at a minimum visually observed for color,foam, outfall . .
staining,visible sheens and dry weather flow,prior to release of the accumulated
stormwater. Accumulated stormwater shall.be released if found to be uncontaminated by
the material stored within the containment area.
SECTION B ANALYTICAL AND QUALITATIVE MONITORING REQUIREMENTS,
FOR DISCHARGES COMPOSED ENTIRELY OF STORMWATER
Analytical monitoring.for stormwater discharges shall be performed for parameters as
specified in Tables 1 through 2.All analytical monitoring shall be performed during a
representative storm event as defined in_Section D.Definitions.
In situations where stormwater runoff is controlled by some type basin or
retention/detention pond, the following provisions are applicable for sample collection for
analytical monitoring: -
• Analytical monitoring for stormwater discharges from a basin or other similar.control
structures must.be performed within the first 30-minutes of discharge.
• Analytical monitoring for a basin/pond designed to contain the 10-year design storm (see
Section D.Definitions) without discharging is not required. Qualitative monitoring for
7

Permit Ni—aer: NCO084620
color, foam, outfall staining, visible sheen and dry weather,flow is the only monitoring .
requirement.
• Analytical and qualitative monitoring are not required for a basin/pond designed to
contain the 25-year, 24-hour storm (see Section D. Definitions)without discharging. A
basin/pond meeting this provision is considered a non-discharging stormwater control.
1. Analytical Monitoring for Stormwater Discharges from Land Disturbance and Process
Areas.
Analytical monitoring for stormwater discharges from land disturbance and process areas
shall be performed as specified in Table 1.
Table 1.Analytical Monitoring Requirements for Stormwater Discharges from Land
Disturbing Activities and Process Areas -
Characterisfxcs° t r Frequency) Typez L t 31-
ocaion
NYk -f
xt �,34,r€s �^x c .3w- a°� ,, Oyu; , a .t h tia✓ :e iA Sy �.�. �F x �i
Settleable Solids m1/1 AnnuallyGrab t ra SDO
Total Suspended Solids m /l Annually Grab SDO
Turbidity NTU Annually Grab SDO
Total Rainfa114 inches Annually -- --
Event Duration4 minutes wally -- --
Total Flow4 MG Annually -- SDO .
pH SU Annually Grab SDO
Fluoride mg/1 Annually Grab SDO
Chloride m /l ally Grab. SDO
Footnotes:
1 Measurement Frequency:Once per year during a representative storm event.A year is defined as the 12
month period beginning on the month and day of issuance of the permit.
2 The sample is collected within the first 30 minutes of discharge from the outfall.
3 Sample Location:Samples shall be collected at each stormwater discharge outfall(SDO)unless
representative outfall status has been granted.
4 For each sampled representative storm event,the total precipitation,storm duration, and total flow
must be monitored.Total flow shall be either;(a)measured continuously, (b)calculated based on the
amount of area draining to the outfall,the amount of built-upon(impervious)area,and the total amount
of rainfall,or(c)estimated by the measurement of flow at 20 minute intervals during the rainfall event.
8

Permit Nu __er: NC0084620
2. Qualitative Monitoring for Stormwater Discharges from Land Disturbance Areas,
Process Areas and Vehicle Maintenance Areas.
Qualitative monitoring requires a visual inspection of all stormwater outfalls with
stormwater runoff from land disturbance, process or vehicle maintenance areas
regardless of representative outfall status or cut-off concentrations and shall be
performed as specified below in Table 2. No analytical tests are required.
The first qualitative monitoring event during the term of the permit must coincide with
the initial analytical monitoring event (regardless of the season). All other qualitative
monitoring will be performed twice per year, once in the spring (April-June) and once
in the fall (September-November) and does not need to be performed during a
representative storm event.
Table 2. Qualitative Monitoring Requirements
y + e1 ': tI'1
.2�.�.. � � r � � � :Y s 'aK � `�. S ?x r s tS �r r &P���Y ,} �,e J■.t 'f
Color Semi--Annual SD
Odor e=_-Annual SDO
-clarity Semi-Annual SDO
st a Setli& Semi-Annual SDO.
Suspen&d Solids Se --Anm 1. SD
Foam M -Annud1
Oil Sheen Seim-Annud �...a^DO
Deposition at.or imm ediately below the Semi-Anmud SILO
on,
Erosion at,or imme&atelybelow the Semi-Annual SD
loutfalll
Other obvious infficators Semi-Annual SD I
of sWrmivater pollu
Footnotes:
1 Monitoring Location:Qualitative monitoring shall be performed at each stormwater discharge
outfall(SDO) associated with land disturbance areas, process areas and vehicle maintenance
areas regardless of representative outfall status.
9

Permit N—ber: NCO084620
SECTION C: SCHEDULE OF COMPLIANCE
1. The permittee shall comply.with Final Limitations and Controls specified for
stormwater discharges in accordance with the following schedule:
For the land disturbance activities:
a. Implement BMP's and stormwater controls, as appropriate on the effective date of
permit coverage, at existing operations.
b. Develop and implement BMP's and stormwater controls, as appropriate,prior to
beginning land disturbance activity at new operations.
;2. Permittee shall at all times provide the operation and maintenance necessary to operate_"
the permitted stormwater controls at optimum efficiency.
SECTION D: DEFINITIONS
1. Representative Storm Event
A storm event that measures greater than 0.1 inches of rainfall and that is preceded by
at least 72 hours in which no storm event measuring greater than 0.1 inches has
occurred. A single storm event may contain up to 10 consecutive hours of no
precipitation. For example,if it rains for 2 hours without producing any collectable
discharge, and then stops, a sample may be collected if a rain producing a discharge
begins again within the next 10 hours.
2. Ten Year Design Storm
The maximum 24 hour precipitation event expected to be equaled or exceeded on the
average once in ten years. Design storm information can be found in the State of North
Carolina Erosion and Sediment Control Planning and Design Manual.
3. 25-year,24 hour storm event
The maximum 24-hour precipitation event expected to be equaled or exceeded,on the
average, once in 25 years.
10

i r
DENRj DWQ
4 FACT SHEET FOR NPDES PERMIT DEVELOPMENT
NPDES No. NCO084620
� r
u s t Faclp Inforrnatioa:k ,` ._;k _ ,,
A ``,bean"t Facili Name Unimin Corporation-Crystal Facility
A hcant Address,`a .;° P.O. Box 588 Spruce Pine NC 28777
Facili , Address', _. 136 C stal Drive Spruce Pine NC 28777
Pe„rinit'teel Flo„w`, , IN,;',a,f 0.553 MGD
"e of Uaste' Industrial
Fae�li -FermitStatus� ;-' Modification
Facjl Classifieatron
Coikn _... Mitchell
NMiscellaneous
Receivm" Stream, _ "... North Toe River Redigrial'Office ,., Asheville.
Stream Classcation t, , _ C Trout USGS,To o°'Quad: D 1 ONE
3,03 d s..Listed? Yes Perin t Writer ,',. A emm Adu-Poke
,r�Stibba`sri 1. , ,. .. ` 'x;:., $r 04-03-06 °Date:{ ,:'; 11 21 2007
T)Zama e,,Arear mil 126
Su'mmer;.7Q 10 cfs 41 `' F'
Wetter 7Q 10 (cfs) 52
,,Avera
2.0%
Prii ,, „SICF(Z OW16"; ,. ,.1 1499 Mining
SUMMARY OF FACILITY INFORMATION AND WASTELOAD ALLOCATION
Unimin Corporation is requesting a permit modification for its Crystal Facility to increase
discharge flow from 0.360 MGD-to 0.553 MGD. Unimin Corporation is also requesting to
install a second emergency pond. The treatment works at Crystal facility were designed with a
final build out flow of 0.553 MGD, Unimin expects to reach the design flow of 0.553 MGD level
within the next two to five years. Currently the Unimin-Crystal effluent discharge 001 goes to the
Feldspar Corporation WWTP (NC0000353).However the facility can discharge directly into the
North Toe River upon submission of an engineer's certification for installation of a pump station.
Outfall 002 is an intermittent stormwater discharge that has not been utilized for several years.
The facility currently adds lime (Ca(OH)2), sulfuric acid(H2s04), and sodium bicarbonate
(Na2CO3) as needed for pH control. The facility adds anionic polymer and cathodic polymer as
needed for flocculation. The facility adds alum(Al2(SO4)3) and polymer as needed for
flocculation of the intake water. Small amount of chlorine are also added as needed for
disinfection of the intake water. Other chemicals used in the process at the main plant include
BF, HCl, caustic, and sodium thiosulfate. Oil and grease are possible from small amounts of
leaks and drip from mobile equipment.
Since the wastestream does not contain BOD5 or ammonia,no modeling for oxygen
consumption is needed: Limits have already been determined for Unimin when direct discharge
begins. Unimin-Crystal already has received an allocation for fluoride. The allowable fluoride
loading for the North Toe River was determined in 1986 and has been allocated to six feldspar
and quartz mines as a group instead-of individual allocations. This approach of allocating the
total fluoride load to a section.of the North Toe River is similar to other methods used by the
Division, including nutrient control strategies in the Neuse and Tar-Pamlico River basins
(Nowell, Jacquelyn(2003)North Toe River Mining Dischargers). Total Suspended Solids limits.
were proportionately increased with the flow rate increase.
Unimin Corporation—Crystal Facility Sheet
NPDES Renewal
Page 1

' �QF W ATFi9Q Michael F.Easley,Governor
f
William G.Ross Jr.,Secretary
r- North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources
Q Coleen Sullins, Director
Division of Water Quality
October 23,2007
ANDREW G BRADLEY
VP ENVIRONMENTAL AFFAIRS
UNIMIN CORPORATION
PO BOX 588
SPRUCE PINE NC 28777
Subject: Acknowledgement ofJPerxri t MOdJT1U lO Application No.1NC0. 08`4620;
Unimin CORP
Crystal Facility
Mitchell County
Dear Mr. Bradley:
The Division of Water Quality acknowledges receipt of your permit modification application with supporting
information on October 23,2007,as of October 22,2007,the original application was recovered,with check.
We are returning the original check,dated July 3,2007,in the amount of$215.00,due to receiving replacement
check#3362, dated October 19, 2007.
The reviewer will perform a detailed review and contact you with a request for additional information if
necessary. To ensure the maximum efficiency in processing permit applications,the Division requests your
assistance in providing a timely and complete response to any additional information requests.
Please note at this time,processing permit applications can take as long as 60—90 days after receipt of a complete
application.We apologize for any inconvenience and delay due to misplacing the original application.
If you have any questions,please contact Agyeman Adu-Poku at 919-733-5083 ext. 508, or via email at
a t;[e-mail]. If the reviewer is unavailable,you may leave a message, and they will respond
promptly.
PLEASE REFER TO THE ABOVE APPLICATION NUMBER WHEN MAKING INQUIRIES ON THIS .
PROJECT.
Sincerely, ---- - , -- `._-2
Laurie Singleton
Forp
Enc:ls
TIO
Cc: Central File �uAUTY S'Ashe-lle Regional'Office Surface Water Protection SeJeffrey S. Ferguson,PE Environmental Engineer, Unim
Permit application file NCO084620
NorthCarolina
Naturally
North Carolina Division of Water Quality 1617 Mail Service Center Raleigh,NC 27699-1617 Phone[phone] Customer Service
Internet: www.newaterguality.org Location: 512 N.Salisbury St. Raleigh,NC 27604 Fax [phone]
An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer—50%Recycled/10%Post Consumer Paper

NPDES PERMIT A JCATION - SHORT FORM C - nor Iadnsf
Minor industrial, manufacturing and commercial fac0mn '
o D u
Mail the complete application to:
N. C. Department of Environment and Natural Rinoi iOCT 2 5 2007
Division of Water Quality / NPDES Unit
1617 Mail Service Center, Raleigh,NC 27699$-16 7 i
WATER QUALITY SECTION
ASHEVILLE REGIONAL OFFICE
NPDES Permit Number NCO084620 H i;
If you are completing this form in computer use the TAB key or the up-}dour arrows to move from one'-
field to the next To check the boxes, dick your mouse on top of the box Otherwise,please print or type.
1. Contact Information:
.Owner Name Unimin Corporation
Facility Name Unimin Corporation- Crystal Facility
Mailing Address Post Office Box 588
City Spruce Pine
State / Zip Code NC
Telephone Number [phone]
Fax Number_ [phone]
e-mail Address
2. Location of facility producing discharge:
Check here if same as above ❑
Street Address or State Road Hwy. 226N, Carter's Ridge Road
City Spruce Pine
State / Zip Code 28777
County Mitchell
3. Operator Information:
Name of the firm, consultant or other entity that operates the fad. (Note that this is not referring to the
Operator in Responsible Charge or ORC)
Name Unimin Corporation
Mailing Address Post Office Box 588
City Spruce Pine
State / Zip Code 28777
Telephone Number [phone]
Fax Number [phone]
as,e+of A

NPDES PERMIT A LICATION - SHORT FORM C - -.6.1nor Industrial
Minor industrial, manufacturing and commercial facilities.
4. Ownership Status:
Federal ❑ State ❑ Private ® Public ❑
5. Standard Industrial Classification (SIC) code(s): 1459
6. Number of employees: 47
7. Describe the treatment system List all installed waste treatment components with capacities,
describe the processes that generate wastewaters. If the space provided is not sufficient attach a
separate sheet of paper with the system description.
Please see attached.
S. Is facility covered under federal effluent limitation guidelines? No ® Yes ❑
If yes,specify the category?
9. Principal product(s)produced: High Pnrft Quartz
Principal raw material(s)consumed: a a
Briefly describe the manufacturing process(es):
Pwva 1)of A !_1AI nQInF

NPDES PERMIT A_ .-JCATION - SHORT FORM C ....nor Industrial
Minor industrial, manufacturing and commercial facilities.
Production of High Purity Quartz
10.Amount of principal product produced or raw material consumed
List s eci c amounts consumed and/or units of roduciion over the last three ears
Product Produced or Raw Material Product Produced or Raw Material
Consumed Consumed
AVERAGE (PEW
per Day
per Month
per Year "Confidential Production Data Will Be
Submitted Separately
11. Frequency of discharge: Continuous ® Intermittent ❑
If intermittent:
Days per week discharge occurs: 7 Duration: 24 hrs.
12. Types of wastewater discharged to surface waters only
Discharge Flow
( 4948 PER DAY)
Sanitary-monthly average n/a
Utility water, etc. -monthly average n/a
Process water- monthly average 225,900
Stormwater-monthly average n/a
Pam Q of A f`._6AI(MIAC;

NPDES PERMIT A-_-ICATION - SHORT FORM C .mot Industrial
Minor industrial, manufacturing and commercial facilities.
Other-monthly average
Explain: n/a
Monthly Average 225,900
total discharge (all types)
13. Number of separate discharge points: 2
Outfall Identification number(s) 001 &002
14. Name of receiving stream(s) (Provide a map shotdng the exact location of each outfall, including
latitude and longitudef:
North Toe River
15. Effluent Data
Provide data for the parameters listed. Temperature and pH shall be grab samples,for all other parameters 24-hour
composite sampling shall be used.If more than one analysis is reported report daily maximum and monthly
average.If only one analysis is reported report as daily maximum.
Parameter Daily Monthly Units of
Maximum Average Measurement
Biochemical Oxygen Demand(BOD5)
Chemical Oxygen Demand(COD)
Total Organic Carbon
Total Suspended Solids 60 19.6 mg/1
Ammonia as N
Temperature (Summer) amb. amb.
Temperature (Winter) amb. amb.
pH 8.27 7.58
Fecal Coliform(If sanitary waste is
present)
Total Residual Chlorine (if chlorine is
used) .
Dorw A of A f'_6AI namS

r
NIFIDES -PETREF°I —z PPIJATIOX- SHORT FORM C- Minor Enduatr;W
ma �'�and c:omme III ihaamas�
p ; as a as eppr s and/or epyli ems (check all that apply o,d prof per;rz�
71-vem ersr or check none eone if not applicablefe
Permit
:e Perk Humber Te 7umbea
Hazardous Waste(RCRA) NESHAPS (CA-A)
U?C (SDWA) Ocean Dumping(MPRSA)
`'7OES NC008d620 Dredge or fill(Section 404 or
PSD (CAA) Other Par Pe-mt No.07018
Non-attainment program
7. List tzmy chemi.cals that may be discharged (Please list and explain source and potential
amounts.)
IS. Is tail facHAy located on Emdiaa ea=try? (check one)
Yes ❑ No
19.Applicant Cextolesion.
g TL .V'y that H MM Tamfliar Alta the Anformm"M contained in the appReatcion and thm to the
beat of my km®wledge and ImBef smab imformaUnn is true,mamplcke,and &com .ta.
Andrea O. Bradley V.P. Environmental Aff drs
Printed name of Person Signing Title
Signature of Applicc=t 0 Date
North Carolina General Statute 143-215.6 (b)(2) provides that: Any person who knowingly makes any false
statement representation, or certification in any application, record, report, plan, or other document files or
required to be maintained under Article 21 or regulations of the Environmental Management Commission
implementing that Article, or who falsifies, tampers with, or knowingly renders inaccurate any recording or
monitoring device or method required to be operated or maintained under Article 21 or regulations of the
Environmental Management Commission implementing that Article, shall be guilty of a misdemeanor
punishable by a fine not to exceed $25,000, or by imprisonment not to exceed six months, or by both. (18
U.S.C. Section 1001 provides a punishment by a fine of not more than$25,000 or imprisonment not more than
5 years, or both, for a similar offense.)
D-9„f A !`CAI name

Unimin Coruoration— Crystal Facility

4 of 1

Permit I ber- NCO084620
A. (1). EFFLUENT-LIMITATIONS AND MONITORING REQUIREMENTS
During the period beginning on the effective date of the permit and lasting until expiration,the
Permittee is authorized to discharge process wastewater from mineral extraction of ore from
outfall 001. Such discharges shall be limited and monitored by the Permittee as specified below:
f '51.�,�; ''u:".'*y€�. , n:- s��' z` r ,3at ¢� a �.,ty r: ,
: s i 'i„ 3e. ty.�.` t�':rt s ` 6. ��tc,,,z*��,�. � .
F"MR $, ,EFF .DENT LINIITATIONa= MONITORING REQUIREMENTS 3
F -. ..
ask '�m� EFFLUEN�.���^����-r'� ;�.����c,� r;.,�;.� � '+r,k.,�'��•,�.i 4�.�" K. a��' s� x`�'� e �n'-�,n�'�„`�r ,�`r '!s'�a'. '
/�r �■,� €�.i, ,Month�yj� }aDaity5 Measurements „r .SaTriUe
r'� .,VI��EiiLSTIC►7rx ``� � xs„ � � �r �,' '�w.:fi.,; Ni*Y`t,�1 '�. j;L.1'§ w t'ar �`^ .,� x�^^w�^ '�
' r .xF.ht•.....:",? ,.t.+.ws"^,..;v:�t��':�5� .'t..c.'`»�k�.h`..;,u�f...n..r,-w....., ,_.� ....ram+,...r.s.;rx. w..,,�t'..r x�.�t�.z_.�:�'';"��'..!"t?>:'„�W�A" �� ,3'.fa'Jr�";<;�r�.L .:z'{m��,�Ss �..u�¢-- •
Flow. 0.360 MGD Continuous Recording I or E
Total Fluoride 50.0 lb/day 100.0 lb/day Weekly: Composite E, U,.D
Total Suspended Solids 86.6 lb/day 173.2 lb/day Weekly Composite E
Settleable Solids Daily Grab E
Turbidity2 Weekly Grab E, U, D
pHs Daily Grab 'E, U, D
Chloride4 Quarterly . Composite E
Chronic Toxicity-5 - Quarterly Composite E
Notes:
1. Sample locations: E- Effluent, I Influent, U-50 feet upstream of discharge, D-300
feet downstream of discharge. Instream samples shall be grab samples and shall
be conducted weekly.
2. This discharge shall not cause the turbidity of the receiving waters to exceed 10
NTU.'.If the turbidity exceeds 10 NTU due to natural conditions, the discharge
shall not cause any increase in turbidity. '
3. The pH shall not be less than 6.0 standard units nor greater than 10.0 standard
units. .
4. Chloride shall be monitored quarterly during the same months as toxicity testing.
5. Chronic Toxicity (Ceriodaphnia) Pass/Fail at 1.3%: January, April, July and
October. See Special Conditions A (2).
There shall be no discharge of floating solids or visible foam in other than trace
amounts..
3

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Facility Information Facility '
Latitude: 35°54'12"(001); 35°53'S5"(002) Sub-Basin: 04-03-06s'a .
Location
Longitude: 82903'25"(001); 82°03'45"(002) � k
Quad#: Spruce Pine(D10NE) .
Stream Class: C-Trout
Receiving Stream: North Toe River Unimin.-Crystal Operation
Permitted Flow: 0.360 MGD North
NC0084620

41 yri ..
' �OF W aTF9Q Michael F.Easley,Governor
•' �� G Wilham..G,..�to��,Jr,Secr�Iary,�
rNorth #iii r epa%i eitr tvirnnment.anrl.NatuFal�Resouwes,t•"'
Alan-W.Klime ,F.F, A' ctor
ivithihn o a er'Q ality I
5.3
HL
September 26, 2006 1• OCT 9 2006
Mr. Andrew G. Bradley WATER QUALITY SECTION
`lice President Environmental Affairs f ASHEVILLE REGIONAL OFFICE I
Unimin Corporation =r•: -y,
P.O. Box 588
Spruce Pine, NC 28777
Subject: NPDES Permit Issuance
NPDES PermitiNz,
Unimin Corp- Crystal Facility
Mitchell County
Dear Mr. Bradley:
Division personnel have reviewed.and approved your application for renewal of the
subject'permit. Accordingly, we are forwarding the attached NPDES discharge permit. This
permit is issued pursuant to the requirements of North Carolina General Statute 143-215.1
and the Memorandum of Agreement between North Carolina and the U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency dated May 9, 1994 (or as subsequently amended.)
The permit authorizes the Unimin Corporation to discharge up to 0.360 MGD of
treated wastewater from the Crystal Facility to North Toe River, a class C Trout water in the
French Broad River Basin. The permit includes discharge limitations /or monitoring for flow,
total fluoride, total suspended solids (TSS), settleable solids, turbidity, pH, chloride, and
chronic toxicity.
The following modifications have been made in this permit:
• The supplement page contains language that the facility must receive an
Authorization to Construct permit before beginning installation of an additional
effluent pump station and construction of a direct discharge outfall line to the
North Toe River.
• Special condition A. (8.) contains the additional sentence: "Unimin Corporation
must provide and install an additional effluent pump station prior to initiating
discharge to the North Toe River." This sentence had previously been omitted
when direct discharge was to be done by gravity line.
The following modification has been-made in the final permit, which was not included
in the April 26th draft:
■ Stormwater discharge language has been revised to the most current permit
language and includes a Best Management Practices (BMPS) Plan, analytical and
qualitative monitoring requirements, and a schedule of compliance. Onehcaro ina
aturatl9
North Carolina Division of Water Quality 1617 Mail Service Center Raleigh,NC 27699-1617 Phone[phone] Customer Service
Internet: www.ncwateinuality.org Location: 512 N.Salisbury St. Raleigh,NC 27604 Fax [phone]
An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer—50%Recycled/10%Post Consumer Paper

Letter to Mr.Bradley :
Page 2
Unimin requested that the instream monitoring sites for the Crystal plant be modified
to show the impact of the new Crystal discharge on the North Toe River. DWQ will concur
with this change. The new upstream monitoring site will be 50 feet upstream of the
discharge and the downstream monitoring site will be 300 feet downstream of the discharge.
The North Toe River is listed as an impaired stream on North Carolina's 2006 Draft
303(d) list. This means that the stream does not meet all water quality standards. It is the
plan of the Division to work for the improvement and recovery of the River. In the event of
the continuance of problems, the future may require the removal of direct point source
dischargers to the North Toe River for the health of the stream. If there is noncompliance
with permitted effluent limits and.degradation of the North Toe River can be attributed to the
Unimin Crystal WWTP discharge;_then.removal of the discharge may be necessary. The
Unimin Corporation may determine in the future that an alternative to surface water
discharge may be more appropriate.
If any parts, measurement frequencies or sampling requirements contained in this
permit are unacceptable to you, you have the right to an adjudicatory hearing upon written
request within thirty (30) days following receipt of this letter. This request must be in the
form of a written petition, conforming to Chapter 150B of the North Carolina General
Statutes, and filed with the office of Administrative Hearings, 6714 Mail Service Center,
Raleigh, North Carolina 27699-6714. Unless such a demand is made, this permit shall be
final and binding.
Please take notice that this permit is not transferable. The Division may require
modification or revocation and reissuance of the permit. This permit does not affect the
legal requirements to obtain other permits, which may be required by the Division of
Water Quality, or permits required by the Division of Land Resources, Coastal Area
Management Act, or any other Federal or Local governmental permits may be required.
If you have any questions or need additional information, please contact Ms.
Jacquelyn Nowell at telephone number [phone], extension 512.
Sincerely,
r p;Alan W. Klimek, P.E.
Attachments
cc: Asheville Regional Office%Surface Water P__ro_te_ction Section,-
EPA Region IV/Marshall Hyatt
Mr. Jeffrey Ferguson/ Unimin Corporation P.O. Box 588 Spruce Pine, NC 28777
Ken Pohlig/Construction Grants and Loans
Aquatic Toxicology Unit
NPDES File/NC 0084620
Central Files

with soils.of high permeability and high hydraulic loadings. The site slope
characteristics should be conducive to a low potential for surface runoff.. .
The industrial wastewater from the Crystal facility does not have high
nutrient value. The primary wastewater after treatment contains dissolved
solids of CaF2, CaC12 and suspended solids. The application of this water
by spraying it on a suitable site would result in a buildup of CaC12 in the
soil,reducing the effectiveness of the vegetation. The real problem,
however, with the Crystal facility site lies in the slope characteristics of
the site. The slopes of an ideal irrigation site would be on average, less
than 5%. The Crystal site has slopes averaging over 10%. Disposal using
irrigation will not work well with the topographic relief of the site for the
disposal of the quantity of wastewater that will be generated by the plant
because the slopes increase the potential for surface runoff. .
4. Direct Discharge to Surface Waters
Discharge to a flowing stream was the only option selected for disposal of
the Crystal facility's treated wastewater. The existing outfali location is
on the North Toe River.
5. Wastewater Reuse
Contamination of the final product is a critical segment of processing high
purity quartz. Reuse of wastewater is not an option due to contamination.
Conclusion
Due to the unique quartz purification process, the wastewater disposal alternatives
selected for the Crystal facility is to.discharge the water back to the North Toe
River. This alternative is deemed the most appropriate after taking into account
the site characteristics, discharge parameters, and site location.
-Page.3 of 3

Engineering Alternatives Analysis (EAA)
Prepared by Jeffrey S. Ferguson
Environmental Engineer
Purpose
The purpose of this report is to evaluate the feasibility of different disposal methods for'
the 0.553 million gallons per day(MGD) of industrial wastewater that will be generated
by Unimin's Crystal Facility.
I. General Information
'A. Facility Location: Unimin Corporation—Crystal Facility
.Mitchell County l
P.O. Box 588
136 Crystal Drive
Spruce Pine, N.C. 28777
Report prepared by: Jeffrey S. Ferguson, P.E.
Environmental Engineer
Unimin Corporation,
136 Crystal Drive
Spruce Pine,N.C. 28777
B. Description of existing discharge:
The wastewater treatment plant consists of mix-reactor tanks;lime and
polymer feed systems,thickener, drum filter, pH adjustment, and flow
measurement. The plant is currently limiting flow to 250 gpm average:
The pH of the wastewater is controlled by neutralization of acid with
hydrated lime. During this process,the calcium from the lime combines
with F-ions to form calcium fluoride which can then be precipitated out of
the wastewater. The precipitate and any other solids in the wastewater are
then removed by flocculation and sedimentation in the thickener. The
underflow from the thickener is further dewatered by vacuum filtration .
before the solids are disposed of off site. The process of lime
neutralization of the acidity and fluoride content of wastewater occur in
three mixing tanks. The existing EIMCO 50' thickener was installed to
accommodate expansions (originally designed 34' based on test work by
EIMCO) and has been determined to accommodate up to 384 gpm,
resulting in the requested flow limit of 0.553 MGD. The requested,
increase in TSS is proportionate to the requested increase in flow.
Overflow from the thickener flows into a sump and thence to Outfall 001.
This flow will be able to be diverted to the proposed emergency pond.
Underflow from the thickener is pumped by a diaphragm pump to a drum
Page 1 of 3

filter, with provision to dump this flow to the proposed_emergency pond.
The-overflow from the drum filter flows via gravity to the feed well of the
thickener. The filtrate is pumped back to the feed well of the thickener.
The filtrate solids are hauled.to the permitted mining waste disposal sites
at either the Quartz or Schoolhouse Quartz Facilities.
C. The industrial process served by the wastewater treatment works is a high
purity quartz purification facility. The purification of high purity quartz
used hydrofluoric and hydrochloric acids. Air pollutants from the process
include HO and HF and.particulates which are scrubbed from the air by
wet scrubbers. The untreated wastewater-therefore consists of fluoride,
chloride and total suspended solids.
D. The requested increase in flow is for expansion of the facility over the
next year. The treatment works were designed with a final build-out flow
of 0.553 MGD in mind. Unimin expects to reach the 0.553 MGD level at
sometime in the next two to five years.
H. Evaluation of Environmental Feasibility of Discharge Alternatives
1. Connection to sewage system
This alternative was eliminated due to the fact that the existing waste
treatment facility is designed to handle the requested increase in flow.
2. Subsurface disposal system
The metamorphic and igneous bedrock geology of th;,region is not
conducive to subsurface disposal systems. The site is characterized by
thin mineral soils overlying rock types with low.specific yields. Igneous
and metamorphic rocks generally have very poor primary porosity. The
porosity of these rock types is generally due to secondary fractures and
fissures in the rock. As a consequence of thinner soils and bedrock
conditions, the subsurface materials will not be expected to absorb large
influxes of wastewater without becoming fully saturated. Subsurface
disposal-systems for the type of flows existing and proposed should only
be considered a possible alternative within the coastal plain deposits.of
southeaster North Carolina.
3. Land Application
Spray irrigation systems operate under the principle of applying the water
to an area of land which will allow vegetation to utilize the water. This
alternative is generally feasible when the wastewater contains nitrogen and
other nutrients as wastewater contaminants. This system requires sites
Page 2 of 3

Permit Number: NCO084620
PART II
STORMWATER MONITORING, CONTROLS AND LIMITATIONS FOR PERMITTED
DISCHARGES .
SECTION A. STORMWATER BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES (BMPS) PLAN
1.The permittee shall implement stormwater BMPs to.ensure that contaminants do not
Venter surface waters via stormwater that comes in contact with any unstabihzed
overburden,raw materials,intermediate products,finished products,byproducts or waste
products located on the site covered by this permit.A BMP Plan shall be developed in'
accordance with the requirements of this section. The BMP Plan.requirement,or portions of
the plan requirement,may be met by utilizing appropriate requirements in other,,.
: documented plans specific to thepermitted facility.
2. Management of Stormwater Runoff and Runon: The permittee shall maintain stormwater
BMPs for land disturbance areas and outside process areas. In addition, controls should be
used to limit or isolate selected land disturbance and process areas and limit the amount of
off site stormwater runon to those areas.Appropriate Best Management Practices (BMPS)
should be used to divert,infiltrate,reuse or otherwise manage stormwater runoff and
runon in a manner that reduces pollutants in stormwater discharges leaving the site.. .
Appropriate BMPs may include but are not limited to:vegetative swales,berms,use of `
reclaimed mine areas, and reuse of collected.stormwater (such as for an industrial process
or as an irrigation source).
3.BMP Controls Inspection and Maintenance. All stormwater BMPs shall be inspected by
l or under the direction of the permittee at least once every seven calendar days and within
'24 hours'after any storm.event that results in a discharge. The BMPs implemented shall be
operated and maintained so that they are cleaned out when the sediment storage capacity
has been reduced by 50%. If any visible sedimentation is leaving-the.property, corrective
action shall be taken to reduce the discharge of sediments. Visible sedimentation_found
offsite shall be recorded with a brief explanation as to the measures taken to prevent future
releases as well as any measures taken to remove the sediment that left the site. All other'
stormwater specific controls (e.g. oil/water separators)shall be inspected and qualitatively
monitored on a semiannual schedule, once in the fall(September-November) and once
during the spring(April-June).A log of sampling data and of activities taken to implement,
BMPs associated with the vehicle-maintenance activities shall be maintained and
incorporated into the BMP Plan and kept'onsite for the duration of the permit term and
made available to the Director upon request...
4. Erosion and Sedimentation Control.The permittee shall impleinent,the management
practices and the erosion and sedimentation control measures that are included in the
mining permit or erosion and sedimentation control permit issued by the Division of Land
Resources. Compliance with the issued permit is considered a requirement of this permit.
6 - . ..

Permit Number: NCO084620
Any deviation from the issued permit, or amendments to the issued permit,that impacts
water quality shall constitute a violation of the terms and conditions of this permit. A ..' '
signed,copy of the issued permit including the approved erosion and sedimentation control
measures and the reclamation plan shall be maintained on the site at all times. Once an area
is released by the Division of Land Resources in accordance with NCGS Chapter 74,Article.
7,it shall no longer be subject to this permit.
5. Preventive Maintenance Inspections and Good Housekeeping Practices. Equipment ,
utilized during mining activity on a site must be operated and maintained in such'a manner
as to prevent potential or actual pollution of the surface water or ground waters of the state.
Fuels,lubricants, coolants, and hydraulic fluids, or any other petroleurri products, shall not
be discharged on the ground or into surface waters. Spent fluids shall be disposed of in a
manner so as not to enter the surface waters or ground waters of the state and in
accordance with applicable federal disposal regulations.Any spilled fluids shall be cleaned
up to the maximum extent practicable and disposed of in.a manner that does-not allow their
entry'into the surface waters or ground waters of the state.
6. Secondary Containment.The permittee shall provide secondary containment for bulk
storage of liquid materials, storage of Section 313 of Title III of the Superfund Amendments
and Reauthorization Act (SARA)water priority chemicals, or storage of hazardous liquids
substances to prevent leaks and spills from contaminating stormwater runoff. If the
secondary containment devices are connected directly to stormwater conveyance systems,
the connection shall be controlled by manually activated valves or other similar devices
(which shall be secured with a locking mechanism) and any stormwater that accumulates in
the containment area shall be at a minimum visually observed for color, foam, outfall
staining,visible sheens and dry weather flow, prior to release of the accumulated
stormwater. Accumulated stormwater shall be released if found to be uncontaminated by
the material stored within the containment area.
SECTION B: ANALYTICAL AND QUALITATIVE MONITORING REQUIREMENTS
FOR DISCHARGES COMPOSED ENTIRELY OF STORMWATER
Analytical monitoring for stormwater discharges shall be performed for parameters as
specified in Tables 1 through 2. All analytical monitoring shall be performed during a
representative storm event as defined in-Section D. Definitions.
In situations where stormwater runoff is controlled by some type basin or
retention/detention pond, the following provisions are applicable for sample collection:for
analytical monitoring:
@)@)Analytical monitoring for stormwater discharges from a basin or other similar control
structures must be performed within the first 30 minutes of discharge.
r .

Permit Number: NCO084620
• Analytical monitoring for a basin/pond designed to contain the 10-year design storm.(see
Section D. Definitions)without discharging is not required. Qualitative monitoring for
color,foam, outfall staining,visible sheen and dry weather flow is the only monitoring
requirement.
• Analytical and qualitative monitoring are not required for a basin/pond designed to
contain the 25-year, 24-hour storm (see Section D.Definitions) without discharging. A
basin/pond meeting this provision is considered a non-discharging stormwater control. .
1.Analytical Monitoring for Stormwater Discharges from Land Disturbance and Process
Areas.
Analytical monitoring for stormwater discharges from land disturbance and process areas
shall be performed as specified in Table 1.
Table 1.Analytical Monitoring Requirements for Stormwater Discharges from Land
Disturbing Activities and Process Areas
`R x Dls��large „ � � � u11�tS MeaSUTeIllerlt S1n1 to e �P '
Characteristicsg. Fregiiency� Type? T.ocatzon31 "
Settleable Solids ml/1 Annually - Grab SDO
Total Suspended Solids m n Annually Grab SDO
Turbidity NTU Annually Grab SDO
Total Rainfall4 inches Annually, -- --
Event Duration4 minutes wally -- -
Total Flow4. MG Annually -- SDO
pH SU Annually Grab SDO
Fluoride mg/1 Annually Grab SDO
Chloride mg/1 Annuall Grab SDO
Footnotes:
1 Measurement Frequency:Once per year during a representative storm event.A year is defined as the 12
month period beginning on the month and day of issuance of the permit.
2 The sample is collected within the first 30 minutes of discharge from the outfall.
3 Sample Location:Samples shall be collected at each stormwater discharge outfall(SDO)unless
representative outfall status has been granted.
4 For each sampled representative storm event,the total precipitation,storm duration, and total flow
must be monitored.Total flow shall be either; (a)measured continuously, (b)calculated based on the
amount of area draining to the outfall,the amount of built-upon(impervious)-area,and,the total amount
of rainfall,or(c)estimated by the measurement of flow at 20 minute intervals during the rainfall event.
8

Permit Number: NC0084620 .
2. Qualitative Monitoring for Stormwater Discharges from Land Disturbance Areas,
Process Areas and Vehicle Maintenance Areas.
Qualitative monitoring requires a visual inspection of all stormwater outfalls with
stormwater.runoff from land disturbance, process or vehicle maintenance areas
regardless of representative outfall status or cut-off concentrations and shall be
performed as specified below in Table 2. No analytical tests are required.
The first qualitative monitoring event during the term of the permit must coincide with
the initial analytical monitoring event (regardless of the season). All other qualitative
monitoring will be performed twice per year,once in the spring (April-June) and once
in the fall (September-November) and does not need to be performed.during a
representative storm event.
Table 2. Qualitative Monitoring Requirements
l !iscliax gC�i � Gea-atics ak l �'ecenc �1Votoramg£
color Semi-Aamual 'SD
Odor Semi Ail t S
Clarity Senu- lY ualSDO
Floating Solids Semi-Annual SD
Suspended Solids Sams-Annul -SDO
Fo-,un Senn-JA=ial SDO
Oil Sheen Sena-Aimtml SDO
Deposition at ar immediately below the SenI -. Ial 13
oiatf�tll
Erosion at or imniediatelybelmv the Seem -nmual `ADO
out€all
Other ob-d o-as indicators Semi-Anniml SDO
Of stom uvater pollution
Footnotes:
1 Monitoring Location:Qualitative monitoring shall be performed at each stormwater discharge
outfall(SDO) associated with land disturbance areas,process areas and vehicle maintenance
areas regardless of representative outfall status.
9

Permit Number: NC0084620
SECTION C: SCHEDULE OF COMPLIANCE_
1. .The permittee shall comply with Final Limitations and Controls specified for
stormwater discharges in accordance with the following schedule: ,
For the land disturbance activities:
a.Implement BMP's and stormwater controls, as appropriate on the effective date of
permit coverage, at existing operations.
b.Develop and implement BMP's and stormwater controls, as appropriate,prior to .
beginning land disturbance activity at new operations.
2. Permittee shall at all times provide the operation and maintenance necessary to operate
the permitted stormwater controls'at optimum efficiency: .
SECTION D:DEFINITIONS
1. Representative Storm Event
A storm event that measures greater than 0.1 iriches.of rainfall and that is preceded by
atleast 72 hours in which no storm event measuring greater than 0.1 inches has
occurred. A single storm event may contain up to 10 consecutive hours of no,
precpitation. For example, if it rains for 2 hours without producing any collectable
discharge;and then stops, a sample may be collected if a rain producing a discharge
begins again within the next 10 hours. ,
2. Ten Year Design Storm
The maximum 24 hour precipitation event expected to be equaled or exceeded on the .
average once in ten years. Design storm information can be found in the State of North
Carolina Erosion and Sediment Control Planning and Design Manual.
3. 25-year,.24 hour storm event
The maximum 24-hour precipitation event expected to be equaled or exceeded, on the
average, once in 25 years.
10

e
NAME: DATE:
NPDES SUPERVISOR COMMENT: '
NAME: dtf / jc_ DATE: 3 �
-�T
�t�lE-��it�'.�ioyt f*sz-�luar�t�tat� f�r, i �g"�`�Ittrt�ra�i:

3- /4 -Aoo�
NPDES PERMIT PLICATION - SHORT FORM Minor Industrial
Minor industrial, manufacturing and commercial facilities.
Mail the complete application to:
N. C. Department of Environment and Natural Resources
Division of Water Quality / NPDES Unit
1617 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, NC 27699-161.7
NPDES Permit Number Ct®� 460,
If you are completing this form in computer use the TAB key or the up—down arrows to move from one
field to the next To check the boxes, click your mouse on top of the box Otherwise,please print or type.
1. Contact Information:
Owner Name Unimin Corporation
Facility Name at Ili
Mailing Address Post Office Box 588
City Spruce Pine
State / Zip Code NC/28777
Telephone Number [phone]
Fax Number [phone]
e-mail Address
2. Location of facility producing discharge:
Check here if same as above
Street Address or State Road
City
State / Zip Code
County
3. Operator Information:
Name of the firm, consultant or other entity that operates the facility. (Note that this is not referring to the
Operator in Responsible Charge or ORC)
Name Unimin Corporation
Mailing Address Post Office Box 588
City Spruce Pine
State / Zip Code NC/28777
Telephone Number [phone]
Fax Number [phone]
Dono f ofA (`_CAI 11Qmr,

NPDES PERMIT PLICATION - SHORT FORM L Minor Industrial
Minor industrial, manufacturing and commercial facilities.
4. Ownership Status:
Federal ❑ State ❑ Private ® Public ❑
5. Standard Industrial Classification (SIC) code(s): 1459
6. Number of employees: 37
7. Describe the treatment system List all installed waste treatment components with capacities,
describe the processes that generate wastewaters. If the space provided is not sufficient attach a
separate sheet of paper with the system description.
Please see attached Confidential Operating Status.
8. Is facility covered under federal effluent limitation guidelines? No ® Yes ❑
If yes, specify the category?
9. Principal product(s)produced: High Purity Quartz
Principal raw material(s) consumed: N/A
Briefly describe the manufacturing process(es):
paro 9 of A r`_RAI nginF

NPDES PERMIT' JPLICATION - SHORT FORM _ Minor Industrial
Minor industrial, manufacturing and commercial facilities.
Production of High Purity Quartz (Please see attached Confidential Operating Status).
10. Amount of principal product produced or raw material consumed
List specific amounts consumed and/or units of roduction over the last three ears
Product Produced or Raw Material Product Produced or Raw Material
Consumed Consumed
AVERAGE PE
per Day
per Month
per Year Confidential Production Data Will Be Submitted Separately.
11. Frequency of discharge: Continuous ® Intermittent ❑
If intermittent:
Days per week discharge occurs: Duration:
12. Types of wastewater discharged to surface waters only
Discharge Flow
GALLONS PER DAY
Sanitary- monthly average
Utility water, etc. -monthly average
Process water- monthly average 7.87 MG/M
Stormwater-monthly average N/A(Outfall 002 Has Never Discharged)
Other-monthly average
Explain:
Puna Z of A r._W n4mr,

NPDES PERMIT _—'PLICATION - SHORT FORM LT-!Minor Industrial
Minor industrial, manufacturing and commercial facilities.
Monthly Average 1.87 MG/M
total discharge (all types)
13. Number of separate discharge points: 2
Outfall Ideatiflcation number(s) 001 (Process Water) &002 (Storm Water)
14. Name of receiving stream(s) (Provide a map shouing the exact location of each outfail, including
latitude and longitude:
North Toe River
15. Effluent Data
Provide data for the parameters listed. Temperature and pH shall be grab samples,for all other parameters 24-hour
composite sampling shall be used.If more than one analysis is reported, report daily maximum and monthly
average.If only one analysis is reported, report as daily maximum.
Parameter Daily Monthly Units of
Maximum Average Measurement
Biochemical Oxygen Demand(BOD5)
Chemical Oxygen Demand(COD)
Total Organic Carbon
Total Suspended Solids 17 8.25 lbs/day
Ammonia as N
Temperature (Summer)
Temperature (Winter)
pH. 8.85 6.90
Fecal Coliform(If sanitary waste is
present)
Total Residual Chlorine (if chlorine is <0.1 <0.1 mg/1
used)
16. List all permits, construction approvals and/or applications (check all that apply and provide permit
numbers or check none if not applicable):
Permit
Type Permit Number Type Number
Darn A of A !:_CAI f mr,

NPDES PERMIT ..PLICATION - SHORT FORM L - Minor Industrial
Minor industrial, manufacturing and commercial facilities.
Hazardous Waste(RCRA) NESHAPS (CAA)
UIC (SDWA) Ocean Dumping(MPRSA)
NPDES NCO084620 Dredge or fill(Section 404 or
PSD (CAA) Other Air Permit No.07018
Non-attainment program
17. List any chemicals that may be discharged (Please list and explain source and potential
amounts.)
Please see attached Confidential Operating Status.
18. Is this facility located on Indian country? (check one)
Yes ❑ No
19. Applicant Certification
I certify that I am familiar with the information contained in the application and that to the
best of my knowledge and belief such information is true, complete, and accurate.
Andrew G. Bradley VP Environmental Affairs
Printed name of Person Signing Title
'1 14
Signature of Applicant Date
North Carolina General Statute 143-215.6 (b)(2) provides that: Any person who knowingly makes any false
statement representation, or certification in any application, record, report, plan, or other document files or
required to be maintained under Article 21 or regulations of the Environmental Management Commission
implementing that.Article, or who falsifies, tampers with, or knowingly renders inaccurate any recording or
monitoring device or method required to be operated or maintained under Article 21 or regulations of the
Environmental Management Commission implementing that Article, shall be guilty of a misdemeanor
punishable by a fine not to exceed $25,000, or by imprisonment not to exceed six months, or by both. (18
U.S.C. Section 1001 provides a punishment by a fine of not more than$25,000 or imprisonment not more than
5 years, or both, for a similar offense.)
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ROAD CLASSIFICATION SCALE 1 :24 000
PAIy,:;Y HIG4'�:AY LIGH'T•DUT7 ROAD.HARD OR 0 1 MILE
H.A ?SURFACE IMPROVED SURFACE
0 7000 FEET
ccCO�jA;:V �-
HARD S;I;;FACE rzzmzlK= uNtMPRJl'EO ROAD
1 0 1 KILOMETER
001 Latitude 35053'52"Longitude 82=03-40"
002Latitude_35053'55"Longitude a 'd Z!Q35" CONTOUR INTERVAL 40 FEET
Map r D10NE Sub-basin 04-03-06
41 OUAD LOCATION Unimin Corporation
Scream Class C-Troul Discharge Class _-- NC0084620
001 : Nor'ih Toe Fever Mitchell
Receiving Stream S IT 1 �r,SS\, Creek Mitchell County
Design O 0•35 NIGD Permit expires 12/31/01 Crystal Operation
�T���� aoi ��rt; ga�03�Zs/,
?�o�o �A o �aid

_ State of North Carol...-
Department of Environment
and Natural Resources •
Division of Water Quality
Michael F.Easley,Governor NR
William G. Ross,Jr., Secretary NCDE
Alan W. Klimek,P.E.,Director
April 2,2004
Mr.Andrew G. Bradley APR 19 2D04
Unimin Corporation-Crystal Facility
P.O.Box 588
WATER QUALITY
Spruce Pine, NC 28777 A HEVILEE REGIONALOTION OFFICE
Subject: NPDES Permit Issuance
NPDES Permit NCO084620
Unimin Corp.-Crystal Operation
Mitchell County
Dear Mr. Bradley:
Division personnel have reviewed and approved your application for renewal of the
subject permit. Accordingly, we are forwarding the attached NPDES discharge permit. This
permit is issued pursuant to the requirements of North Carolina General Statute 143-215.1 and
the Memorandum of Agreement between North Carolina and the U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency dated May 9, 1994 (or as subsequently amended.)
This permit authorizes Unimin Corporation to discharge up to 0.682 MGD of treated
wastewater from the Crystal Operation Plant to the North Toe River,a class C Trout water in
the French Broad River Basin. The permit includes discharge limitations and/or monitoring for
flow, total fluoride,total suspended solids (TSS), ammonia,turbidity,pH,chloride, and chronic
toxicity. The following modification was made to the permit:
• The notification and monitoring requirement to install an additional 117 GPM
effluent pump prior to initiating discharge to the North Toe River was deleted. It
was determined that the flow will be gravity induced and pumps will not be
required.
If any parts, measurement frequencies or sampling requirements contained in this
permit are unacceptable to you, you have the right to an adjudicatory hearing upon written
request within thirty (30) days following receipt of this letter. This request must be in the form
of a written petition, conforming to Chapter 150B of the North Carolina General Statutes, and
filed with the office of Administrative Hearings, 6714 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, North
Carolina 27699-6714. Unless such a demand is made,this permit shall be final and binding.
1617 MAIL SERVICE CENTER,RALEIGH,NORTH CAROLINA 27699-1617-TELEPHONE [phone]/FAX [phone]
AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY AFFIRMATIVE ACTION EMPLOYER- 50%RECYCLED/ 1 0%POST-CONSUMER PAPER
VISIT US ON THE INTERNET @ http://h20.enr.State.nC.US/NPDES

P Lit Number: NCOO8462O
3
Please take notice that this permit is not transferable. The Division may require
modification or revocation and reissuance of the permit. This permit does not affect the legal
requirements to obtain other permits, which may be required by the Division of Water Quality,
or permits required by the Division of Land Resources, Coastal Area Management Act, or any
other Federal or Local governmental permits may be required.
If you have any questions or need additional information, please contact Ms. Jacquelyn
Nowell at telephone number(919) 733-5083, extension 512.
Sincerely,
Alan W.Klimek,P.E.
Attachments
cc: r.�s,7 ille-Regional-0ffice/W ter Quality Section j
EPA Region IV/Attn.Roosevelt Childress
Aquatic Toxicology
Central Files
NPDES File

r
--- Pe t Number: NCO084620
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA
DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENT AND NATURAL RESOURCES
DIVISION OF WATER QUALITY
PERMIT
TO DISCHARGE WASTEWATER UNDER THE
NATIONAL POLLUTANT DISCHARGE ELIMINATION SYSTEM
In compliance with the provisions of North Carolina General Statute 143-215.1, other lawful
standards and regulations promulgated and adopted by the North Carolina Environmental
Management Commission, and the Federal Water Pollution Control Act, as amended,
Unimin Corporation
is hereby authorized to discharge wastewater from a facility located at
Crystal Operation
At NCSR 1117, east of NC Highway 226
Southeast of Spruce Pine
Mitchell County
to receiving waters designated as the North Toe River in the French Broad River Basin in
accordance with effluent limitations,monitoring requirements, and other conditions set forth in
Parts I,II,III and IV hereof.
This permit shall become effective May 1,2004
This permit and authorization to discharge shall expire at midnight on February 28,2006.
Signed this day April 2,2004
Alan W.Klimek,P.E.,Director
Division of Water Quality
By Authority of the
Environmental Management Commission
1

P dt Number: NCO084620
SUPPLEMENT TO PERMIT COVER SHEET
All previous NPDES Permits issued to this facility, whether for operation or discharge are
hereby revoked, and as of this issuance, any previously issued permit bearing this number is no
longer effective. Therefore, the exclusive authority to operate and discharge from this facility
arises under the permit conditions,requirements,terms, and provisions included herein.
Unimin Corporation
Crystal Operation
is hereby authorized to:
1. Continue operation of a wastewater treatment plant for process wastewater from mineral
extraction consisting of:
• mix/reactor tanks
• lime and polymer feed systems
• thickener
• drum filter
• pH adjustment and
• flow measurement.
The Crystal Operation is located at NCSR 1117 east of NC 226, southeast of Spruce Pine,
Mitchell County, and
2. Discharge from said treatment works at the location specified on the attached map into the
North Toe River, which is classified C Trout waters,in the French Broad River Basin.
2

P it Number: NCO084620
A (1). EFFLUENT LIMITATIONS AND MONITORING REQUIREMENT'S
During the period beginning on the effective date of the permit and lasting until expiration,the
Permittee is authorized to discharge process wastewater from mineral extraction of ore from
outfall 001. Such discharges shall be limited and monitored by the Permittee as specified below:
E k `EFFLUENT`LIMITATIONS s RING MENT
s MONITO ..REQUIRE S
, ., EF�'LUEN7C
CIiARACTERISTICS Monthly ' Daily Measuremen ' Sample t Sarnple -
Frequencye location,
rx < a lwera e .Maximum ,. s
E x
ai
Flow 0.360 MGD Continuous Recording I or E
Total Fluoride 50.0 lb/day 100.0 lb/day Weekly Composite E;U, D
Total Suspended Solids 86.6 lb/day 173..2 lb/day Weekly Composite E
Settleable Solids Daily Grab E
Turbidityz Weekly Grab E, U, D
pH3 Daily Grab E, U, D
Chlorides4 Quarterly Composite E
Chronic Toxicity5 Quarterly Composite E
Notes:
1. Sample locations: E- Effluent, I- Influent, U-upstream at Altapass Road, D-
downstream at the footbridge in the Town of Spruce Pine. Instream samples shall
be grab samples and shall be conducted weekly.
2. This discharge shall not increase the turbidity of the receiving waters more than 10
NTU. If the turbidity exceeds 10 NTU due to natural conditions, the discharge
shall not cause any increase in turbidity.
3. The pH shall not be less than 6.0 standard units nor greater than 10.0 standard
units.
4. Chloride shall be monitored quarterly during the same months as toxicity testing.
5. Chronic Toxicity (Ceriodaphnia) Pass/Fail at 1.3%: January, April, July and
October. See Special Conditions A (2).
There shall be no discharge of floating solids or visible foam in other than trace
amounts.
3

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Facility Information Facility
� � s
Latitude: 35°54' 16" Sub-Basin: 04-03-06 Location "
Longitude: 82°03'46"
Quad#: Spruce Pine(D1ONE)
Stream Class: C-Trout
Unimin erasion
Receiving Stream: North Toe River /fin NC 08 620
Permitted Flow: 0.682 MGD i/o r�lz

DENR/DWg
a FACT SHEET FOR NPDES PERMIT DEVELOPMENT
NPDES NotNG-G@846.2'0
Facility 14form4tion
Applicant/Facili Name: Unimin Co oration-C stal Facili
Applicant Address: P.O. Box 588 Spruce Pine NC 28777
Facility Address: 136 Crystal Drive Spruce Pine NC 28777
Permitted Flow 0.36
Type of Waste: Industrial
Facility/Permit Status: Renewal
Facility Classification_ II
County: Mitchell
Miscellaneous
Receiving Stream: North Toe River Regional Office: Asheville
Stream Classification: C Trout USGS To o Quad: D 1 ONE
303(d),Listed?: No Permit Writer: Jackie Nowell
Subbasin: 04-03-06 Date: 10/15/ 2003
Drainage Area (mi2): 126
�w�cc
� r
Summer 7Q10,(cfs).._ 41
Winter 7Q10 (cfs): 52
Average Flow (cfs):. 239
IWC (°/0: 1.3%
Prima. SIC Code: 1499 (Mining)
SUMMARY OF FACILITY INFORMATION AND WASTELOAD ALLOCATION
Unimin Corporation is requesting a permit renewal for its Crystal Facility. The Crystal,Facility
does extraction and mineral processing to produce high purity quartz. The facility is permitted
to discharge into the North Toe River, class C-Trout waters, in French Broad River Basin. ,
Currently the Unimin-Crystal effluent discharge 001 goes to the Feldspar Corporation WWTP. •
Outfall 002 is an intermittent stormwater discharge.
The facility indicates that direct discharge into the North Toe River will be occurring soon.:,
Because of the probability of a discharge Unimin-Crystal has received an allocation for,fluoridei.
Unimin is permitted at 0.360 MGD (250 gpm) and they anticipate adding additional leach
capacity which will result in an average flow of 500 gpm average (0.720 MGD). Unimin has
requested that NPDES update the permit to reflect this new flow. This would constitute a
permit modification, however facility did not submit major modification fee. Application was
submitted in 2001 and WWTP have still not discharged by the end of 2003. Will recommend
that facility resubmit their request for this expansion under separate letter.
In addition, they have asked for deletion of a permit condition that requires them to install
effluent pumps prior to starting discharge to North Toe River. Unimin-Crystal has built an
emergency pond that is gravity fed and does not require pumps. ARO has investigated and
recommends that pumps are not required and the condition can be dropped.
The existing limits for the renewal permit are as follows:
Pollutant Mo. Avg. Da. Max.
Flow 0.360 MGD
Total Suspended 86.6 lbs/day 173.2 lbs/day
Residue
Total Fluoride 50 Ibs/day 100 lbs/day
Settleable Solids Daily
monitoring
Turbidity Weekly
monitoring
pH 6-10 SU
Chronic Toxicity 1.3%
iVr'1�f;S IZ('ltr��'F?i '

DIVISION OF WATER QUALITY
Point Source Branch
NPDES Unit
August 22, 2003
MEMORANDUM
To: Nladolyn Dommy
Marshall Hyatt A(/G
EPA Region IV 2 G 2003 $`
Through: Dave GoodrichC� NE��'L ����'S T�Q
J4
From: Jacquelyn M. Nowell
Subject: North Toe River Mining Dischargers
French Broad River Basin
Mitchell County,North Carolina
Background
There are six feldspar and quartz mines discharging into the North Toe River in the
French Broad River basin (subbasin 040306). The facilities are listed here in order, from
upstream to downstream:
• Unimin- Schoolhouse Facility (NC0000361) —2.16 MGD
• Feldspar Mines (NC0000353) —3.5 MGD
• U mzn`Crystal Fiiki yz(I"C00846
• K-T Feldspar Mines (NC0000400) — 1.73 MGD
• Unimin—Quartz Facility (NC0000175) —3.6 MGD
• Unimin —Red Hill Facility (NC0085839) —0.682 MGD
Please see the attached schematic that represents the mine locations on the North Toe
River. Most of these facilities have been discharging since the early 1980's. The
exception is the Red Hill Facility that started discharging in 1995 and is located
approximately 20 miles downstream of the other mines and is not relevant to this
discussion from the standpoint that no interaction occurs between this plant and any
other. Therefore, this discussion will only include the mines above the confluence of the
South Toe River. It should also be noted that the Unimin — Crystal Facility discharges
effluent into the Feldspar Mines facility. There is the possibility of a separate discharge
in the future; therefore the facility has received a fluoride allocation.
The primary area of concern is the discharge of fluoride from these facilities. The North
Carolina water quality standard for fluoride is 1.8 mg/l. The allowable fluoride loading
for the North Toe River was determined in 1986 and has been allocated to these mines as
a group instead of individual allocations. This approach of allocating the total fluoride
1

Unimin-
Unimin-
School
Quartz
House
N 3.6 MGD ���
Unimin- co V Quartz
Red Hill r r 2.16 MGD
0.682 I
MGD ." N�� �9
v
o K-T Feldspar 1.73 MGD
North To North Toe River
m e Rigor
m
Unimin- Feldspar 3.5 MGD
Crystal
0.360 MGD
MINE DISCHARGES ON THE NORTH TOE RIVER

load to a section of the North Toe River is similar to other methods used by the Division,
including nutrient control strategies in the Neuse and Tar-Pamlico River basins. Similar
to a "bubble permit"(used in the Air Quality program), some discharges may cause
localized impacts. However, the overall goal of the allocation method is to protect water
quality while allowing some flexibility for the dischargers to maintain compliance. The
Division and EPA have approved this approach for 17 years.
The total pounds per day of fluoride allocated are 574. The permitted fluoride
allocations for each of the mines is as follows:
AFU
1�'luoryde Monthly Average )la'luor�de llaily Maximum
' ..
Faczlty.Name ,,;` (lbs
Unimin-Schoolhouse 109 218
Feldspar Mines 174 348
Unimin-Cr stal 50 100
K-T Feldspar 132 264
Unimin-Quartz 109 436
x
Totia)I Al[ocahon 574 ,, 5 1366 � ., .....,
These allocations for the mines have been assigned upon all past permit renewals. This
fluoride loading of 574 lbs/day is based on:
1) a summer 7Q10 flow of 45 cfs in the North Toe River just below Little Bear Creek;
2) the current water quality standard for fluoride of 1.8 mg/l, and
3) a background fluoride concentration of 0.05 mg/l.
The 1985 wasteflows for three of the quartz processing mines were used to develop the
fluoride loading:
1)Feldspar @ 1985 Qw = 3.50 MGD
2)KT Feldspar @ 1985 Qw = 2.02 MGD
3)Unimin-Quartz @ 1985 Qw = 4.32 MGD
9.84 MGD = 15.25 cfs
Fluoride loading = (45 cfs, + 15.25 cfs)(1.8 mg/1)— (45 cfs)(0.05 mg/1)
_ (60.25)(1.8)—2.25 cfs.mg/l
= 108.45 —2.25 = 106.2 cfs.mg/1
= 106.2 cfs.mg/1 * 5.39 = 572 lbs/day — 574 lbs/day
(Assume the difference is attributable to rounding)
Water Quality Evaluation
There are no federal effluent guidelines for mines that discharge fluoride. The purpose of
this memorandum is to evaluate water quality as it relates to previous permit decisions
and propose a 2003 permit strategy.
2

MINE DISCHARGES ON NORTH TOE RIVER
River Mile NPDES Permit number
41 .5 X NC0000361- Unimin-Schoolhouse Quartz
3 3.8 NC0000353- The Feldspar Corp.
NC0084620- Unimin-Crystal
31.4 HWY 19
29.2 NC0000400- K-T Feldspar
28.6 NC0000175- Unimin-Quartz
27.5 Ambient monitoring station
21.6 X South Toe River junction
6.0 NC0085839- Unimin-Red Hill

The Division uses a weight of evidence approach when assessing water quality. That is,
all available data are reviewed and evaluated to determine the appropriateness of certain
actions. There are three categories of information in this case:
• Instream biological assessments
• Whole-effluent toxicity testing
• Instream chemical data
Instream biological data are the most directly reliable measurements of stream health and
are, therefore, given the greatest consideration. Whole-effluent toxicity testing also is
given a lot of weight during deliberations. It is not a direct measurement of stream
conditions, but it is a direct measurement of the interaction between wastewater and
species that inhabit the stream or river. The Division also considers comparison of
physical or chemical measurements to existing water quality standards. In the presence
of all three categories of information, contraventions of water quality standards, although
considered serious, are given the least amount of weight. The reason for this is that
comparisons to numeric criteria (which are based on whole-effluent toxicity testing) are
indirect measurements of the biota in the stream. All of this information is valuable, but
North Carolina chooses to make a comprehensive critical evaluation of all available data.
Use Support
There are no segments of the North Toe River listed on the North Carolina 2003 303(d)
impaired stream list. There are approximately 556 miles of the North Toe River that are
rated fully supporting designated uses including the river reaches receiving effluent from
these mines.
Instream Biological Assessment
The benthic macroipvertebrate data for the North Toe River below all the quartz mines
demonstrate good water quality. The most recent evaluation was in 1997 at State Road
1162 at Penland, Mitchell County. This is located just 0.5 miles downstream of the
Unimin-Quartz discharge. There has been improvement in the biological rating over the
years from a poor rating in August 1988 to a good-fair rating in 1989 and 1992.
Macroin vertebrate data for the most upstream station above the quartz mines, North Toe
River at US19E at Ingalls, Avery County, indicate a rating of excellent water quality as of
July 1997. The table below indicates North Toe River biological monitoring stations and
their biological ratings during the 10 year period between 1987 and 1997.
Biological Ratings}
Staho� location 1987 19$8,41997
North Toe R.,US 19E Good Good Good Good Excellent
at Ingalls
North Toe R., Fair Poor Good Good Good
SR1162, Penland —Fair -Fair
3

Bioclassification Use Support Rating
Excellent Fully Supporting
Good Fully Supporting
Good-Fair Fully Supporting
Fair Partially Supporting
Poor Not Supporting
Whole Effluent Toxicity Testing
All the quartz mines have quarterly whole effluent toxicity tests based on the potential for
toxic effects on the receiving stream. (Please note that Unimin-Crystal has a toxicity
limit, however because it discharges into the Feldspar Mines WWTP, they do not conduct
individual toxicity tests.) Since 1998, there have been 91 tests conducted by the five
quartz mines with a 93% passing rate. There have only been 6 failures of all the tests
conducted in the past four years. The majority of the failures occurred at the same
facility. The Unimin-Schoolhouse plant accounted for four of the six failures. The cause
of this toxicity is unknown. However, it should be noted that Unimin-Schoolhouse been
compliant since August 2001.
Facilrty Marne{ Toieity*Limrt oxict Tests Failures
� -
since 199$
Unimin-Schoolhouse 10% 26 4
Feldspar Mines 11% 24 0 `
Unimin-C stal 1.3% - -
K-T Feldspar 6% 19 1
Unimin-Quartz 11% 22 1
Instream Chemical Monitoring by Facilities
All the facilities conduct instream self-monitoring for turbidity, fluoride and pH, both
upstream and downstream of their outfalls. This is to help determine the effect of the
discharges on the water quality in the North Toe River. Instream fluoride data from the
time period of January 1999 to August 2002 were reviewed for the preceding five
facilities. During this time period, the monthly averages for instream fluoride have
shown no exceedances of the water quality standard either upstream or downstream of the
Unimin-Schoolhouse and Feldspar facilities. The average upstream value for the
Schoolhouse facility was 0.15 mg/1 and the average downstream value was 0.26 mg/l.
The average upstream value for the Feldspar facility was 1.29 mg/l and the average
downstream value was 1.2 mg/l.
There were a total of 327 fluoride observations in the stream among these five
dischargers with 30 values >1.8 mg/l. This was 9% of the total monthly observations
with 91% within the standard. Most of the instream fluoride values > 1.8 mg/l standard
occurred upstream and downstream of the K-T Feldspar discharge. This, more than
likely, occurred as a result of the proximity of the Feldspar Mines discharge which is only
0.6 miles above the K-T Feldspar Mines discharge. The breakdown of instream
observations of values > 1.8 mg/l are:
4

Number of
Monitoring Locations Number of Obs. values > 1.8 mg/l %
Above Unimin Schoolhouse 43 0 0
Franklintown Bridge 43 0 0
Above Feldspar 37 0 0
Below Feldspar 38 0 0
Above K-T Feldspar 41 7 17%
Below K-T Feldspar 42 15 36%
Above Unimin-Quartz 42 5 12%
SR 1162 at Penland Bridge 42 3 7%
327 30 9%
Ambient Monitoring Data
The Division conducts ambient monitoring in the North Toe River at two sites. The first
station is at US Highway 19E near Ingalls, NC nearly 1 mile above the Unimin-
Schoolhouse Quartz mine. The second station is at State Road 1162 at Penland
approximately 0.8 miles below the Unimin-Quartz outfall. These stations are above the
most upstream mine and below the most downstream mine. Since January 1999, there
have been 30 samples of fluoride taken. There have been only 3 values > 1.8 mg/1 and
these occurred in February 2000, February 2001 and June 2001. This indicates that 90%
of the ambient samples in the past 4 years have been < 1.8 mg/l.
Discussion of Water Quality Information
An overall view of water quality in this segment of the North Toe River indicates that the
biological assessment shows improving water quality conditions. The toxicity data
indicates that the discharges are not toxic or causing toxicity instream. There is greater
than 90% compliance with the toxicity limits. Self monitoring instream data conducted
by the discharges does demonstrate that some instream fluoride standard exceedances
occur. The majority are below K-T Feldspar, and it is concluded that these occur because
the two dischargers are in such close proximity and North Carolina (with EPA approval)
has used a"bubble" permitting approach, which allows some localized impacts by design.
However, the average instream fluoride values collected between January 1999 and
August 2002 show that upstream and downstream of all the dischargers, the instream
fluoride average is below the standard of 1.8 mg/l.
DWO Recommendation
The Division recommends that the allocations for the North Toe River dischargers remain
the same. Water quality data show that there is no impairment in the stream, there have
been minimal toxicity problems, and the numeric water quality standard is being
protected > 90% of the time. It recommended that all the feldspar and quartz mines have
their permits reissued at the existing fluoride allocations.
Attachments
C ForI'�e5tt'�v�`esta_�1�1 "�
Mike Parker
Matt Matthews
NPDES Files: NC0000175 NC0000353 NC0000361
NC0000400 NC0084620 NC0085839
5

N
orth Toe River
000000
Red Hill Quartz Corp
South Toe River
Unimin Schoolhouse
E81 ;OUnimin Quartz
K-T Feldspar
Spruce Pine WWTP
®Spruce Pine WTP
Feld orp
imin Crys
' ® NPDES Discharg
*' Ambient Stations
Impaired Waters
0 - 2,300 4,600 9,200 Meters
I North Toe River

v :f
North Carolina
Departrnent'of Environment and Natural Resources
Water Pollution Control System Operator Certification Commission
Michael F.Easley,Governor ML
William G.Ross Jr.,Secretary
Coleen H.Sullins, Chairman NCDENR
CERTIFIED MAIL January 11,2002
RETURN RECEIPT REQUESTED PZ
1Y g
Mr.Mitchell Snyderman
Unimin Corporation MAR 8 2002 f'
PO Box 588 T
Spruce Pine,NC 28777 _ __ ---
WATER HAU'Pi'SECTfO�. ;
p AMEViLtf R 0w ,JAL OFFfC�
System:Unimin Corporation-Crystal
`C1a 5 ficatiori: Grade- lshysicalT.Chemii! Systei'n�,�
Subject:Designation of ORC and Backup ORC for Physical/Chemical
Permit; 9,84620Q
Dear Mr. Syndeman:
The Water Pollution Control System Operators Certification Commission adopted Rule 15A
NCAC 8G .0306, Classification of Physical / Chemical Systems, effective April 1, 1999. In
order to insure the proper operation and maintenance of these systems, this Rule requires that
all systems permitted for a physical / chemical process to treat wastewater be classified as
physical/chemical systems.
If the subject physical/chemical system consists of systems designed for (1) the remediation
of contaminated groundwater, or (2) that utilizes a primarily physical process to treat
wastewaters, (with the exception of reverse osmosis, electrodialysis, and utrafiltration
systems),then that system shall be classified as a Grade I Physical/Chemical Water Pollution
Control System. Rule-15A NCAC 8G .0306(a)
If the subject physical/chemical system consists of systems that utilizes a primarily chemical
process to treat wastewaters (including those systems whose treatment processes are
augmented physical processes), they shall be classified as a Grade II Physical / Chemical
Water Pollution Control System. Reverse osmosis, electrodialysis, and utrafiltration systems
shall also be classified as Grade 11 Physical/Chemical Water Pollution Control System. Rule
15A NCAC 8G .0306(b)
If the water pollution control system that has, as part of its treatment process, biological water
pollution control system that may be classified under Rule .0302, then that system shall be
subject to additional classification as a biological water pollution control system. Rule 15A
NCAC 8G .0306(c)
Any water pollution control system subject to classification under Rule .0302 of this Section,
utilizing a physical/chemical.process to enhance an activated sludge or fixed growth process,
shall not be subject to additional classification. Rule 15A NCAC 8G .0306(d)
1618 Mail Service Center,Raleigh,North Carolina 27699-1618
Phone: 919—733-0026 \ FAX: 919—733-1338
AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY\AFFIRMATIVE ACTION EMPLOYER-50%RECYCLED/10%POST CONSUMER PAPER

The Water,Pollution Control System Operators Certification Commission hereby classifies
your system as a Grade 2 Physical Chemical System. This classification is based on
information submitted in your application for a NPDES permit and/or based on the
information you provided in the physical chemical classification survey that you completed
during the months of April-May 2001.
As required by Rule 15A NCAC 8G .0202(2) and the subject permit, a certified Operator in
Responsible Charge (ORC) and back-up operator of the appropriate type must be
designated for each classified system. Your system requires an ORC and back-up
operator who hold valid physical / chemical operator certificates. Please complete and
return the enclosed designation form to this office by December 31, 2003. Failure to
designate a properly certified ORC and back-up operator is a violation of the permit issued
for this system.
In accordance with Rule 15A NCAC 8r .0406(b), individuals presently working at physical /
chemical water pollution control systems holding a valid Grade I, II, III, or IV wastewater
treatment plant operator certification, may apply for a conditional operators physical /
chemical certificate without examination. He or she may do so if, he or she has one year
experience and has successfully completed a training school sponsored or co-sponsored by the
Commission for Grade I or Grade 2 Physical / Chemical Water Pollution Control System
Operators. This conditional certification allows the bearer to act as the ORC or Backup
ORC of that System only. This conditional certification must be renewed annually per
section .0700 of the rules. The Rules for this certification as well as others is found on the
DWQ/Technical Assistance and Certification Unit web page(http://h20.enr.state.nc.us/tacu/).
Plans are now being made to conduct the first physical chemical school in January 15-18,
2002 at the McKimmon Center in Raleigh. This school is co-sponsored by AWWA/WEA
and the NC Water Pollution Control System Operators Certification Commission. As soon as
arrangements for the school are finalized you will receive more information.
If we can be of assistance or you have any questions concerning this requirement, please call
James Pugh at 919-733-0026, ext. 341 or e-mail: [e-mail].
Sincerely,
ames Pugh,Acting Supervisor
Technical Assistance and Certification Unit
Enclosures
Central Files
TAC Facility Files

r
Permit Number: NCO084620
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA,
DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENT AND NATURAL RESOURCES
DIVISION OF WATER QUALITY
PERMIT
TO DISCHARGE WASTEWATER UNDER THE
NATIONAL POLLUTANT DISCHARGE ELIMINATION SYSTEM .
In compliance with the provisions of North Carolina General Statute 143-215.1, other lawful
standards and regulations promulgated and adopted by the North Carolina Environmental
Management Commission, and the Federal Water Pollution Control Act,as amended,
Uni,;,in Corporation
is hereby authorized to discharge wastewater and stormwater from a facility located at
Crystal Operation
At NCSR 1117,east of NC Highway 226
Southeast of Spruce Pine
Mitchell County
to receiving waters designated as the North Toe River in the French Broad River Basin in
accordance with effluent limitations,monitoring requirements,and other conditions set forth in .
Parts I,II,III and IV hereof.
This permit shall become effective November 1,2006.
This permit and authorization to discharge shall expire at midnight on February 28, 2011.
Signed this day September 26,2006.
F9ti Alan W.Klimek,P.E.,Director
Division of Water Quality
By Authority of the
Environmental Management Commission

Permit Number: . NCO084620
SUPPLEMENT TO PERMIT COVER SHEET
All previous NPDES Permits issued to this facility, whether for operation or discharge are
hereby revoked, and as of this issuance, any previously issued permit bearing this number is no
longer effective.-Therefore, the exclusive authority to operate and discharge from this facility
arises under the permit conditions,requirements,terms, and provisions included herein.
Unimin Corporation
Crystal Operation
is hereby authorized to:
1. Continue operation of a wastewater treatment plant for process wastewater from
mineral extraction consisting of:
• mix/reactor tanks
• lime and polymer feed systems
• thickener
• drum filter
• pH adjustment and
• flow measurement.
The Crystal Operation is located at NCSR 1117 east of NC 226, southeast of Spruce Pine,
Mitchell County, and
2. Upon issuance of an Authorization-to Construct permit from the Division of Water
Quality and submission of the engineer's certification for installation of a pump station
for effluent discharge and a discharge outfall line, operate and
3. Discharge treated process water from said treatment works through outfall 001 and
stormwater through outfall 002 at the locations specified on the attached map into the
North Toe River,which is classified C Trout waters,in the French Broad River Basin.
2

Permit Number: NCO084620
A.(2). CHRONIC TOXICITY PERMIT LIMIT(QRTRLY)
The effluent discharge shall at no time exhibit observable inhibition of reproduction or significant
mortality to Ceriodaphnia dubia at an effluent concentration of 1.3%: .
The permit holder shall perform at a minimum,quarterly monitoring using test procedures outlined in
the"North Carolina Ceriodaphnia Chronic Effluent Bioassay Procedure,"Revised February 1998,or
subsequent versions or"North Carolina Phase II Chronic Whole Effluent Toxicity Test Procedure"
(Revised-February 1998) or subsequent versions.The tests will be performed during the months of
January,April,July and October. Effluent sampling for this testing shall be performed at the NPDES .
permitted final effluent discharge below all treatment processes.
If the test procedure performed as the firsftest of any single quarter results in a failure or ChV below
the permit limit,then multiple-concentration testing shall be performed at a minimum;in each of the
two following months as described in"North Carolina Phase II Chronic Whole Effluent Toxicity Test
Procedure"(Revised-February 1998) or subsequent versions.
The chronic value for multiple concentration tests will be determined using the geometric mean of the
highest concentration having no detectable impairment of reproduction or survival and the lowest
concentration that does have a detectable impairment of reproduction or survival. The definition of .
"detectable impairment,"collection methods,exposure regimes,'and further statistical methods are
specified in the"North Carolina Phase II Chronic Whole Effluent Toxicity Test Procedure"(Revised-
February 1998)or subsequent versions:
All toxicity testing results required as part of this permit condition will be entered on the Effluent
Discharge Monitoring Form(MR-1)for the months in which tests were performed,using the parameter .
code TGP3B for the pass/fail results and THP313 for the Chronic Value. Additionally,DWQ Form AT-3
(original)is to be sent to the following address:
Attention: North Carolina Division of Water Quality
Environmental Sciences Section .
1621 Mail Service Center
Raleigh,North Carolina 27699-1621
Completed Aquatic Toxicity Test Forms shall be filed with the Environmental Sciences Section no later
than 30 days after the end of the reporting period for which the report is made.
Test data shall be complete,accurate,include all supporting chemical/physical measurements and all
concentration/response data;and be certified by laboratory supervisor and ORC or approved designate
signature. Total residual chlorine of the effluent toxicity sample must be measured and reported if
chlorine is employed for disinfection of the waste stream.
Should there be no discharge of flow from the facility during a month in which toxicity monitoring is
required,the permittee will complete the information located at the top of the aquatic toxicity(AT)test
form indicating the facility name,permit number,pipe number,county,and the month/year of the
report with the notation of"No Flow"in the comment area of the form. The report shall be submitted to
the Environmental Sciences Section at the address cited above.
Should the permittee fail to monitor during a month in which toxicity monitoring is required,
monitoring will be required during-the following month.
Should any test data from this monitoring requirement or tests performed by the North Carolina
Division of Water Quality indicate potential impacts to the receiving stream,this permit may be re-
opened and modified to include alternate monitoring requirements or limits.
NOTE: Failure to achieve test conditions as specified in the cited document,such as minimum-control
organism survival,minimum control organism reproduction,and appropriate environmental controls,
shall constitute an invalid test and will require immediate follow-up testing to be completed no later
than the last day of the month following the month of the initial monitoring.
4

Permit Number: NCO084620
A. (3). BIOCIDES
The permittee shall not use any biocides except those approved in conjunction with the
permit application. The permittee shall notify.the Director in writing not later than ninety
(90) days.prior to instituting use of any additional biocide used in cooling systems which
may be toxic to aquatic life other than those previously reported to the Division of Water
Quality. Such notification shall include completion of Biocide Worksheet Form 101 and a
map locating the discharge point and receiving stream.
A. (4). TURBIDITY REOPENER
In the event that violations of the turbidity standard of the North Carolina Water Quality
Standards occur as a result of this discharge,this permit shall be'modified,or alternately,
revoked and reissued to incorporate limitations sufficient to protect the receiving waters.
A.(5). SOLIDS DISPOSAL
Solids removed or resulting from the wastewater treatment process shall be contained and
disposed of in such a manner as to prevent any contamination of the surface waters'of the
State.
A. (6). FLUORIDE(WATER QUALITY-STANDARD)REOPENER
This permit shall be modified,or revoked and reissued to incorporate new fluoride effluent
limitations in the event that acute or chronic bioassay testing or other studies results in a
change in the North Carolina Water Quality Standard for fluoride.
A. (7). FLUORIDE (PRODUCTION CHANGE) REOPENER
This permit may be modified,or revoked and reissued to incorporate new limitations in the.-
event that production changes are requested or should any new fluoride using discharge
request.to locate on the North Toe River.
A. (8). ADDITIONAL NOTIFICATION AND MONITORING (RELIABILITY)
REQUIREMENTS
The following measures will be taken in lieu of providing an additional thickener: Unimin
Corporation Crystal Operation will notify the Asheville Regional Office,Telephone (704)
251-6208,prior to taking any wastewater treatment unit out of service,if such action could
result in non-retention of inadequately treated effluent or an out of compliance discharge.
Whenever any unit is removed from service,whether for maintenance or due to failure of
the unit,the Company shall immediately institute daily monitoring for Total Suspended
Solids and Fluorides (in addition to the parameters normally monitored on a daily basis).
The Company will cease all wastewater related manufacturing operations until such time as
the wastewater treatment unit is operational,whenever the wastewater treatment system
can no longer adequately treat or store the wastewater, so as to prevent an out of
compliance discharge.
Additionally,Unimin Corporation must provide and install an additional effluent pump
station prior to initiating discharge to the North Toe River.
5

gjpL)
'a
�
WDENR
North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources
Pat McCrory Donald R. van der Vaart
Governor Secretary
August 5,2015
Unimin Corporation
Crystal Facility
PO BOX 588
Spruce Pine,NC 28777
Subject: Acknowledgement of Pen-nit Renewal
Pen-nit NCO084620
Mitchell County
Dear Permittee:
The NPDES Unit received your permit renewal application on July 30, 2015. A member of the
NPDES Unit will review your application. They will contact you if additional information is required to
complete your permit renewal. You should expect to receive a draft permit approximately 30-45 days
before your existing permit expires.
If you have any additional questions concerning renewal of the subject permit, please contact Tom
Belnick at(919) 807-6389.
Sincerely,
Wsre,,�TktAfo-ro� RECEIVED
Division of Water Resources
Wren Thedford
i 2015 0 1
Wastewater Branch l ;`'a-� AUG ;
Water Quality Regional Operations
cc: Central Files t. F,;
Asheville Regional Office
As' sh Villl"e.Regional Of ice ;}
NPDES Unit ��- �_ rtik�.•,..`4.i:a'e'..... ` ..; ._ _.. - -:7
1617 Mail Service Center,Raleigh,North Carolina 27699-1617
Location:512 N.Salisbury St.Raleigh,North Carolina 27604
Phone:[phone] Fax:[phone]Customer Service:1-877-623-6748
Internet::www.newater.om
An Equal OpportunitykAffirmative Action Employer

NPDES PERMIT APPLICATION — SNORT FORM C — Minor Industrial
Minor industrial, manufacturing and commercial facilities.
Mail the complete application to:
N. C. Department of Environment and Natural Resources
Division of Water Quality / NPDES Unit
1617 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, NC 27699-1617
NPDES Permit Number INCO084620
Please print or type.
1. Contact Information:
Owner Name Unimin Corporation
Facility Name Unimin Corporation- Crystal Facility
Mailing Address P. O. Box 588
City Spruce Pine
State / Zip Code NC / 28777
Telephone Number [phone] REQEIVEO/np�iRADWR
Fax Number [phone] JUL e..2 0 2015
e'C J
e-mail Address n/a
ater Utla lly
2. Location of facility producing discharge:
Permittino Sectior
Check here if same as above ❑
Street Address or State Road 136 Crystal Drive
RECEIVED
Divisin
City Spruce Pine
State / Zip Code NC / 28777 AUG 1 0 2015 i
County Mitchell
ater Quality Regional Operations
Ashevil;e Re�iona!Office
3. Operator Information: --==
r
Name of the firm, consultant or other entity that operates the facility,_(Note that this is not referring to the
Operator in Responsible Charge or ORC)
Name Unimin Corporation- Crystal Facility
Mailing Address P. O. Box 588
City Spruce Pine
State / Zip Code NC / 28777
Telephone Number [phone]
Fax Number [phone]
4. Ownership Status:
Federal ❑ State ❑ Private ® Public ❑
Page 1 of 5 C-MI 10108

NPDES PERMIT APPLICATION - SHORT FORM C - Minor Industrial
Minor industrial, manufacturing and commercial facilities.
5. Standard Industrial Classification (SIC) code(s): 1459
6. Number of employees: 18
7. Describe the treatment system List all installed waste treatment components with capacities,
describe the processes that generate wastewaters. If the space provided is not sufficient attach a
separate sheet of paper with the system description.
See attached CONFIDENTIAL operating status.
8. Is facility covered under federal effluent limitation guidelines? No ® Yes ❑
If yes, specify the category?
9. Principal product(s) produced: High Purity Quartz
Principal raw material(s) consumed: N/A
Briefly describe the manufacturing process(es):
See attached CONFIDENTIAL operating status.
Page 2 of 5 C-MI 10108

NPDES PERMIT APPLICATION - SHORT FORM C - Minor Industrial
Minor industrial, manufacturing and commercial facilities.
10. Amount of principal product produced or raw material consumed
Lists eci c amounts consumed and/or units of roduction over the last three ears
Product Produced or Raw Material Product Produced or Raw Material
Consumed Consumed
AVERAGE PEAK
per Day
per Month
per Year *Confidential production data will be submitted separately.
11. Frequency of discharge: Continuous ® Intermittent ❑
If intermittent:
Days per week discharge occurs: 7 Duration: 24 hrs/dav
12. Types of wastewater discharged to surface waters only
Discharge Flow
GALLONS PER DAY
Sanitary - monthly average 0
Utility water, etc. - monthly average 0
Process water - monthly average 39,900
Stormwater-monthly average 0
Other-monthly average
Explain: 0
Monthly Average 39,900 (Plant has operated only a few months out of
total discharge (all types) the past 3 years)
13. Number of separate discharge points: 2 Out£all Identification number(s) 001& 002
14. Name of receiving stream(s) (Provide a map showing the exact location of each outfall, including
latitude and longitude):
North Toe River
Page 3 of 5 C-MI 10/08

NPDES PERMIT APPLICATION - SHORT FORM C - Minor Industrial
Minor industrial, manufacturing and commercial facilities.
Effluent Data [for new or proposed discharges]
Provide data for the parameters listed. Temperature and pH shall be grab samples,for all other parameters 24-hour
composite sampling shall be used.If more than one analysis is reported, report daily maximum and monthly average.
If only one analysis is reported, report as daily maximum.
NOTE:Permittees requesting renewal should complete the table ONLY for the parameters
currently monitored. Summarize the ast 3 years of e fluent data.
Parameter Daily Monthly Units of
Maximum leverage Measurement
Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD5) N/A
Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) N/A
Total Organic Carbon N/A
Total Suspended Solids 244 16 lb/day
Ammonia as N N/A
Temperature (Summer) N/A
Temperature (Winter) N/A
pH 9.9
Fecal Coliform (If sanitary waste is N/A
present)
Total Residual Chlorine (if chlorine is N/A
used)
16. List all permits, construction approvals and/or applications (check all that apply and provide permit
numbers or check none if not applicable):
Type Permit Number Type Permit Number
Hazardous Waste (RCRA) NESHAPS (CAA)
UIC (SDWA) Ocean Dumping (MPRSA)
NPDES NCO084620 Dredge or fill (Section 404 or CWA)
PSD (CAA) Other NC Air Permit 07018R15
Non-attainment program (CAA)
17. Last any chemicals that may be discharged (Please list and explain source and potential
amounts.)
See attached CONFIDENTIAL operating status.
Page 4 of 5 C-MI 10/08

NPDES PERMIT APPLICATION - SHORT FORM C - Minor Industrial
Minor industrial, manufacturing and commercial facilities.
18. Is this facility located on Indian country? (check one)
Yes ❑ No
19. Applicant Certification
I certify that I am familiar with the information contained in the application and that to the
best of my knowledge and belief such information is true, complete, and accurate.
Andrew G. Bradley Sr. VP - Operations
Printed name of Person Signing Title
Signature of Applicant Date
North Carolina General Statute 143-215.6 (b)(2) provides that: Any person who knowingly makes any false
statement representation, or certification in any application, record, report, plan, or other document files or
required to be maintained under Article 21 or regulations of the Environmental Management Commission
implementing that Article, or who falsifies, tampers with, or knowingly renders inaccurate any recording or
monitoring device or method required to be operated or maintained under Article 21 or regulations of the
Environmental Management Commission implementing that Article, shall be guilty of a misdemeanor punishable
by a fine not to exceed $25,000, or by imprisonment not to exceed six months, or by both. (18 U.S.C. Section
1001 provides a punishment by a fine of not more than$25,000 or imprisonment not more than 5 years, or both,
for a similar offense.)
Page 5 of 5 C-MI 10/08

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Crystal Facility Facility
AQ
State Grid/Guach D 10 NE/Spruce Pine,NC Permitted Flow: 0.553MGD
Location
Latitude: 35*54'12" Longitude. 8r 03'25"
Receiving Stream: North Toe River Sub-Basin: 04-63-06 not to scale
Drainage Basin: French Broad River Basin I-rUC#: 0601010801
StrearnClass: C Trout NPDES Permit No.NCO084620
Worth Mitchell County

®r. .
PAT MCCRORY
^: Governor
DONALD R. VAN DER VAART
Secretary
Water Resources S. JAY ZIMMERMAN
ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY
Director
October 6, 2016
Sandra Phillips
Unimin Corporation
PO Box 588
Spruce Pine,NC 28777
SUBJECT: Compliance Evaluation Inspection
Crystal Operation
Permit No: NCO084620
Mitchell County
Dear Ms. Phillips:
Enclosed please find a copy of the Compliance Evaluation Inspection form from the inspection conducted on
September 20, 2016. The facility appeared to be in compliance with permit NC0084620, however there are
items that need your attention. Please refer to the enclosed inspection report for important observations and
comments. If you or your staff have any questions,please call me at 828-296-4500.
Sincerely,
Linda Wiggs
Environmental Senior Specialist
Asheville Regional Office
Enc.Inspection Report /
cc: Daniel Garland,ORC(e-copy)V
MSC 1617-Central Files-Basement
lie�ille_Ei1es
G:\WR\WQ\Mitchell\Wastewater\Irtdustrial\Unimin Crystal 84620\CEI 9-20-2016.Ltr.docx
State of North Carolina I Environmental Quality I Water Resources
2090 U.S.Highway 70 Swanuanoa,NC 28778
828 296 4500

United States Environmental Protection Agency
Form Approved.
EPA Washington,D.C.20460 OMB No.2040-0057
Water Compliance Inspection Report Approval expires 8-31-98
Section A:National Data System Coding(i.e.,PCS)
Transaction Code NPDES yr/mo/day Inspection Type Inspector Fac Type
1 IN 2 15 I 3 I N00084620 I11 12 16/09/20 17 18 ICI 19 I c I 201
211111 I I I I I I II 11 I I I I I I I I I I I I I 1 l l l l l 1 111 l l l l l r6
Inspection Work Days Facility Self-Monitoring Evaluation Rating B1 QA -------------Reserved------------
671 70 L_ 71 J 72 73 I 74 751 I I I I I 80
Section B:Facility Data
Name and Location of Facility Inspected(For Industrial Users discharging to POTW,also include Entry Time/Date Permit Effective Date
POTW name and NPDES permit Number)
10:OOAM 16/09/20 12/06/01
Crystal Operation
300 Crystal Dr Exit Time/Date Permit Expiration Date
Spruce Pine NC 28777 02:00PM 16/09/20 16/02/29
Name(s)of Onsite Representative(s)Mtles(s)/Phone and Fax Number(s) Other Facility Data
///
Name,Address of Responsible Officialfritle/Phone and Fax Number
Contacted
Karl Kuchta,PO Box 588 Spruce Pine NC 287770588//828-765-4283/
Yes
Section C:Areas Evaluated During Inspection(Check only those areas evaluated)
Permit Flow Measurement Operations&Maintenance Facility Site Review
Effluent/Receiving Waters
Section D:Summary of Finding/Comments(Attach additional sheets of narrative and checklists as necessary)
(See attachment summary)
Name(s)and Signature(s)of Inspector(s) Agency/Office/Phone and Fax Numbers Date
Linda S Wiggs���^+ r ARO WQ!/828-296-4500 Ext.4653/
Signature ent Q A Reviewer Agency/Office/Phone and Fax Numbers Date
EPA Form 3560-3(Rev 9-94Previous editions are obsolete.
Page# 1

NPDES yr/mo/day Inspection Type (Cont.) 1
31 NC0084620 I11 12 16/09/20 17 18 [Sj
Section D:Summary of Finding/Comments(Attach additional sheets of narrative and checklists as necessary)
Present during all or part of the inspection were Unimin staff Daniel Garland, Andy Green, Sandra
Phillips and DWR staff Mikal Willmer.
The facility was not in operation (processing) at the time of the inspection.
There are 3 tanks associated with this WWTP: they are not used for EQ; they are mix/reactor tanks.
These appeared to be the initial components of the wastewater system. Two of the tanks were full, the
third was empty.
The clarifier was half full.
We visited 3 lagoon structures on this property associated with processing operations; all are lined.
The largest was described as an intake water storage structure. The small and medium sized lagoons
were described as Emergency Ponds (E-Ponds) associated with the wastewater system. The small
lagoon, which is closest to the plant, did not have lines, drains, plumbing structures delineated. It is
unclear what water can be delivered to this E-pond. There was water flowing into this small lagoon
(E-Pond) at the time of the inspection, but it was unclear where it was coming from.
Discussions with Unimin staff, Sandra Phillips and Brian Preston, indicated the water being delivered to
the pond was from a ground water remediation area and from the WWTP discharge which was due to
a leak in need of repair. The discharge from the WWTP (a leak into the clarifier trough from the
mix/reactor tank and into weir box)was observed.
This small lagoon (E-Pond) also has a riser that could discharge to a Tributary to Grassy Creek.
Staining on the lining indicated the water had reached a level fairly close to the top of the riser. A
discharge from the riser would be considered Bypassing Treatment Facilities (Part ll, Section C 4.).
As noted above and throughout this facility inspection, unidentified or unknown water flows were
prevalent; most drains and plumbing structures observed were not delineated. Investigation and
delineation of all water flows is needed. It is not uncommon for old industrial sites to be faced with this
challenge. Over the years original Engineer plans go missing, staff with historic knowledge retire,
maintenance activities redirect/alter structures and corrosion destroys any labeling that may have
existed, etc.
Page# 2

Permit: NCO084620 Owner-Facility: Crystal Operation
Inspection Date: 09/20/2016 Inspection Type: Compliance Evaluation
Operations &Maintenance Yes No NA NE
Is the plant generally clean with acceptable housekeeping? 0 ❑ ❑ ❑
Does the facility analyze process control parameters,for ex: MLSS, MCRT, Settleable 0 ❑ ❑ ❑
Solids, pH, DO, Sludge Judge, and other that are applicable?
Comment: This processing facility is currently not in operation.
PH and fluoride probes are in several locations of the WW system.
Permit Yes No NA NE
(If the present permit expires in 6 months or less). Has the permittee submitted a new 0 ❑ ❑ ❑
application?
Is the facility as described in the permit? ❑ ® ❑ ❑
#Are there any special conditions for the permit? 0 ❑ ❑ ❑
Is access to the plant site restricted to the general public? 0 ❑ ❑ ❑
Is the inspector granted access to all areas for inspection? 0 ❑ ❑ ❑
Comment: This permit expired at the end of February 2016 and to date it has not been assiqned a
permit writer.
The WWTP components listed in the current permit need to be updated and more specific.
Equalization Basins Yes No NA NE
Is the basin aerated? 0 ❑ ❑ ❑
Is the basin free of bypass lines or structures to the natural environment? ❑ 0 ❑ ❑
Is the basin free of excessive grease? ❑ ❑ 0 ❑
Are all pumps present? ❑ ❑ 0 ❑
Are all pumps operable? ❑ ❑ 0 ❑
Are float controls operable? ❑ ❑ 0 ❑
Are audible and visual alarms operable? ❑ ❑ 0 ❑
#Is basin size/volume adequate? ❑ ❑ ❑ 0
Comment: There are 3 tanks associated with this WWTP: they are not used for EQ: they are
mix/reactor tanks. These appeared to be the initial components of the wastewater system.
Two of the tanks were full, the third was empty.
Not just at these tanks but throughout this facility most of lines, drains and plumbing
structures observed were not delineated.
See summary.
Secondary Clarifier Yes No NA NE
Is the clarifier free of black and odorous wastewater? ❑ ❑ ❑ 0
Page# 3

Permit: NC0084620 Owner-Facility: Crystal Operation
Inspection Date: 0 9/2 012 01 6 Inspection Type: Compliance Evaluation
i
Secondary Clarifier Yes No NA NE
Is the site free of excessive buildup of solids in center well of circular clarifier? ❑ ❑ ❑
Are weirs level? ❑ ❑ ❑
Is the site free of weir blockage? ❑ ❑ ❑
Is the site free of evidence of short-circuiting? ❑ ❑ ❑
Is scum removal adequate? ❑ ❑ ❑
Is the site free of excessive floating sludge? ❑ ❑ ❑
Is the drive unit operational? ❑ ❑ ❑
Is the return rate acceptable(low turbulence)? ❑ ❑ ❑
Is the overflow clear of excessive solids/pin floc? ❑ ❑ ❑
Is the sludge blanket level acceptable?(Approximately'/a of the sidewall depth) ❑ ❑ ❑ M
Comment: The facility is not in operation. The clarifier was half full.
Lagoons Yes No NA NE
Type of lagoons?
#Number of lagoons in operation at time of visit? 3
Are lagoons operated in?
#Is a re-circulation line present? ❑ ❑ 0 ❑
Is lagoon free of excessive floating materials? M ❑ ❑ .❑
#Are baffles between ponds or effluent baffles adjustable? ❑ ❑ M ❑
Are dike slopes clear of woody vegetation? 0 ❑ ❑ ❑
Are weeds controlled around the edge of the lagoon? 0 ❑ ❑ ❑
Are dikes free of seepage? ❑ ❑ ❑
Are dikes free of erosion? ❑ ❑ ❑
Are dikes free of burrowing animals? ❑ ❑ ❑
#Has the sludge blanket in the lagoon (s) been measured periodically in multiple ❑ ❑ ❑
locations?
#If excessive algae is present, has barley straw been used to help control the growth? ❑ ❑ 0 ❑
Is the lagoon surface free of weeds? M ❑ ❑ ❑
Is the lagoon free of short circuiting? ❑ ❑ ❑
Page# 4

Permit: NCO084620 Owner-Facility: Crystal Operation
Inspection Date: 09/20/2016 Inspection Type: Compliance Evaluation
Lagoons Yes No NA NE
Comment: We visited 3 lagoon structures on this property associated with processing operations: all
are lined. The largest was described as an intake water storage structure. The small and
medium sized lagoons were described as Emergency Ponds (E-Ponds) associated with the
wastewater system. The small lagoon, which is closest to the plant, did not have lines,
drains, plumbing structures delineated. It is unclear what water can be delivered to this
E-pond.
See summary.
Flow Measurement - Effluent Yes No NA NE
#Is flow meter used for reporting? i ❑ ❑ ❑
Is flow meter calibrated annually? ■ ❑ ❑ ❑
Is the flow meter operational? ■ ❑ ❑ ❑
(If units are separated) Does the chart recorder match the flow meter? 0 ❑ ❑ ❑
Comment: On 1/29/2016, Clear Water calibrated the flow meter.
Effluent Pipe Yes No NA NE
Is right of way to the outfall properly maintained? ❑ ■ ❑ ❑
Are the receiving water free of foam other than trace amounts and other debris? N ❑ ❑ ❑
If effluent (diffuser pipes are required) are-they operating properly? ❑ ❑ 0 ❑
Comment: Plant growth needs to be removed to allow for access to the discharge pipe in the river.
Page# 5

{�� i M
• NCDENR
North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources
Pat McCrory Donald R.van der Vaart
Governor Secretary
August 28,2015
CERTIFIED MAIL
RETURN RECEIPT REQUESTED 7014 0510 0000 4466 8543
Mr. Andrew G. Bradley, VP, Environmental Affairs
Unimin Corporation
Crystal Operation
258 Elm Street
New Canaan, Connecticut 06840
Subject: Notice of Violation and
Recommendation for Enforcement
Failure to Designate PC-2 Certified Operator
Tracking#: NOV-2015-OV-0012
Crystal Operation
NPDES Permit No.NC0084620 .
Mitchell County
Dear Mr. Bradley:
The Asheville Regional Office has determined that the Operator in Responsible Charge (ORC) operating your
NPDES permitted facility does not have the appropriate certification for your PC-2 facility. A Notice of
Violation and Notice of Recommendation for Enforcement(NOV/NRE) is being issued to-you for the
following violations:
1. Failure to designate an ORC of appropriate grade for your wastewater system: 15A NCAC
08G.0201(1)requires the owner of a wastewater system to designate an ORC who possesses a
valid certification for the type and grade at least equivalent to the type and grade of the system.
Your wastewater system is a PC-2,therefore, an ORC of PC-2 or higher is required. Your
current ORC, Andy Greene, (Certification No.1001214) is only a PC-1 certified operator; and,
2. Failure to designate an Operator in Responsible Charge (ORC) of appropriate grade for
your wastewater system: According to the standard conditions, Section C.1. of your NPDES
Permit No.NC0084620,you are required to designate an ORC of equivalent grade to or greater
than the designated grade of your system(i.e., PC-2).
Water Quality Regional Operations—Asheville Regional Office
2090 U.S.Highway 70,Swannanoa,North Carolina 28778
Phone: [phone] FAX: [phone]
Internet: hftp://por al.ncdenr.org/webAuq
An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer

Mr. Andrew G. Bradley y
August 28, 2015
Page Two
Pursuant to 15A NCAC 08G.0201(3)(c), you are required to complete and submit a"Water Pollution Control
System ORC Designation" form designating the appropriately certified ORC and Backup ORC for your facility
within 7 days of your receipt of this NOV/NRE. The original completed form is to be submitted to the
Raleigh address and a copy to this office.
Please respond in writing within ten(1 O) dqys after receipt of this Notice. A review of your response will be
considered. You will then be notified of any civil penalties that may be assessed regarding the violations. If no
response is received in this Office within the 10-day period, a civil penalty assessment may be prepared.
Pursuant to G.S. 143-215.6A, a civil penalty of not more than twenty-five thousand dollars ($25,000.00)may be
assessed against any person who violates or fails to act in accordance with the terms, conditions, or
requirements of any permit issued pursuant to G.S. 143-215.1.
If you have questions concerning this matter,please do not hesitate to contact Janet Cantwell or me at 828/296-
4500.
Sincerely,.
G. Landon Davidson, P.G.,Regional Supervisor
Water Quality Regional Operations,NCDENR
Asheville Regional Office
Enclosure
cc:-- -�WQ_=Asheville
Sandra Phillips/Crystal Plant/ Spruce Pine
MSC 1617-Central Files-Basement
Technical Assistance& Certification Unit
WQ Enforcement/NPDES Point Source Branch
G,NNW,WQ\14tirehclllWastewatcrUndustrial':Unimin Crystal S4629CNO%'-NRE-2011-OV-0012.doe

CERTIFIED MAIL
June 20, 2016
Division of Water Quality
1617 Mail Service Center
Raleigh,NC 27699-1617 G } R11
Attn: Central Files '
Dear Sir or Madam:
Enclosed is the NPDES DMR report for the Unimin Crystal Plant for the month of
May 2016,permit#NC 0084620. If there are any questions, please contact me at(828)
766-0052.
Sincerely,
A
Stephen A. ison
Operator in Responsible Charge
Unimin Crystal Plant
Cc: S. Phillips
p� �{y� 4r• es
J. Ferguson F � aEerBeso�r°
• pivision of�
Crystal File
r
t
R2Q�oria�0neeations r

NPDES PERMIT NO.:NCO084620 PERMIT VERSION:4.0 PERMIT STATUS:Expired
FACILITY NAME:Crystal Operation CLASS:PC-2 COUNTY:Mitchell
OWNER NAME:Unimin Corporation ORC:Stephen Andrew Wilson ORC CERT NUMBER:986002
GRADE:PC-2 ORC HAS CHANGED:No
eDMR PERIOD:05-2016(May 2016) VERSION:1.0 STATUS:Processed
SAMPLING LOCATION: EFFLUENT DISCHARGE NO.: 001 NO DISCHARGE*: YES
u
g y 50050 00400 QD530 TGP3B 00951 00940 00070 00545
u A � e
E w O r� S
m C E
E Q P rn 'z Continuous Weekly Weekly Weekly Weekly Weekly
o .yam a a
s
U °o Continuous Grab Composite Composite Composite Composite Grab Grab
A O F F 1 O O O Z C FLOW PH TSS-QtyDally CER17DPF FLUORIDE CHLORIDE TURB RES/SET
2400 clock Hrs 2400 clock Hrs YB/N mgd so 1bs/day pass/fail ibs/day mgQ atu mill
1 NOFLOW
2 NOFLOW
3 0800 24 0700 8 B 0.06987 7.199 6.99259 8.507651 3.84 <0.1
4 NOFLOW
5 NOFLOW
6 0800 24 0700 8 Y 0.01531 8.981 0.127685 1.762059 4.96 <0.1
7 NOFLOW
8 1 INOFLOW
9 NOFLOW
10 NOFLOW
11 NOFLOW
12 0800 24 0700 8 Y 10.00148 9.53 0.014812 0.063938 2.03 <0.1
13 NOFLOW
14 NOFLOW
l5 NOFLOW
16 NOFLOW
17 NOFLOW
18 NOFLOW
19 0800 24 0700 is Y 0.0219 6.65 1.534226 1 230134 5.14 <0.1
20 NOFLOW
21 NOFLOW
22 NOFLOW
23 NOFLOW
24 NOFLOW
25 NOFLOW
26 0800 24 0700 8 Y 0.01596 9.28 1.587269 1.587269 1.51 <0.1
27 NOFLOW
28 INOFLOW
29 NOFLOW
30 NOFLOW
31 NOFLOW
Monthly Average Limit; 0S53 133 50
Monthly Average: 0.024884 2.051316 2.844451 3.496 0
Daily Maximum: 0.06987 9.53 6.99259 8507651 5.14 0
DailyMtnlmum: 0.00148 6.65 0.014812 0.063938 1.51 0
.. r a tl ••q-,:
NoReportiv g ision {la FISB11}bFlow-Reuse/Recycle; ENVWTHR=No Visitation-Adverse Weather, NOFLOW=No Flow; HOLIDAY=NoVisitation-Holiday
pi o
JUL v 7 ?off
�iya¢er P�u2fit"Re-1,100n24 n,erations

NPDES PERMIT NO.:NCO084620 PERMIT VERSION:4.0 PERMIT STATUS:Expired
FACILITY NAME:Crystal Operation CLASS:PC-2 COUNTY:Mitchell
OWNER NAME:Unimin Corporation ORC:Stephen Andrew Wilson ORC CERT NUMBER:986002
GRADE:PC-2 ORC HAS CHANGED:No
eDMR PERIOD:05-2016(May 2016) VERSION:1.0 STATUS:Processed
SAMPLING LOCATION: UPSTREAM DISCHARGE NO.: 001
E 6 00400 C0530 00951 00070
Q h C
Weekly Weekly Weekly Weekly
Grab Grab Grab Grab
lJ F O O O Z a PH TSS-Cone FLUORIDE TURB
2400 clock Hrs 2400 clock Hrs Y/B/N so mg/l m9/1 ntu
1
2
3 1300 7.074 38 0.0879 15
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
it
12 1100 7.035 3.2 0.034 2.78
13
14
IS
16
17
l8
19 10900 1 6.976 3.2 0.0409 1.77
20
21
22
23
24
25
26 0830 6.924 92 0.N37 3.71
27
28
29
30
31
Monthly Average Limit
Monthly Average: 13.4 0.0516 5.815
Daily Maximum:17.074 38 0.0878 15
Daily Minimum: 6.924 3.2 0.034 1.77
*;'*No Reporting Reason:ENFRUSE=No Flow-Reuse/Recycle; ENVWTHR=No Visitation—Adverse Weather, NOFLOW=No Flow; HOLIDAY=No Visitation—Holiday

NPDES PERMIT NO.:NCO084620 PERMIT VERSION:4.0 PERMIT STATUS:Expired
FACILITY NAME:Crystal Operation CLASS:PC-2 COUNTY:Mitchell
OWNER NAME:Unitnin Corporation ORC:Stephen Andrew Wilson ORC CERT NUMBER:986002
GRADE:PC-2 ORC HAS CHANGED:No
eDMR PERIOD:05-2016(May 2016) VERSION:1.0 STATUS:Processed
SAMPLING LOCATION: DOWNSTREAM DISCIIARGE NO.: 001
E 6 h 00400 C0530 00951 00070
Weekly Weekly Weekly Wcekly
O u C C
a ciah crab. Grab
A O F F O1 O O z° a PH INS-Cone FLUORIDE TURB
2400 clock Hrs 2400 clock Mrs YBIN so M94 m9/1 ntu
1
2
3 1306 7.17 35.6 0.0594 139
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12 1107 6.948 4 0.115 2.49
13
N
15
16
17
18
19 10906 6.877 2.4 0.139 0.66
20
21
22
23
24
25
26 0836 6.974 6 0.195 1.49
27
28
29
30
31
Monthly Average Limit
Monthly Average: 12 0.12685 4.635
Daily Maximum: 7.17 35.6 0.195 13.9
Daily Minimum: 6.848 12.4 10.0594 0.66
"" No Reporting Reason:ENFRUSE=No Flow-Reuse/Recycle; ENVWTHR=No Visitation—Adverse Weather,NOFLOW=No Flow; HOLIDAY=No Visitation—Holiday

NPDES PERMIT NO.:NCO084620 PERMIT VERSION:4.0 PERMIT STATUS:Expired
FACILITY NAME:Crystal Operation CLASS:PC-2 COUNTY:Mitchell
OWNER NAME:Unimin Corporation ORC:Stephen Andrew Wilson ORC CERT NUMBER:986002
GRADE:PC-2 ORC HAS CHANGED:No
eDMR PERIOD:05-2016(May 2016) VERSION:1.0 STATUS:Processed
COMPLIANCE:Compliant CONTACT PHONE#:[phone] SUBMISSION DATE:0611612016
qvL A �m( 06/16/2016
ORC/Certifier ignature: Sandra Phillips E-Mail:[e-mail] Phone #:[phone] ext. 1605 Date
By this signature,I certify that this report is accurate and complete to the best of my knowledge.
The permittee shall report to the Director or the appropriate Regional Office any noncompliance that potentially threatens public health or the environment.
Any information shall be provided orally within 24 hours from the time the permittee became aware of the circumstances.A written submission shall also be
provided within 5 days of the time the permittee becomes aware of the circumstances.
If the facility is noncompliant,please attach a list of corrective actions being taken and a time-table for improvements to be made as required by part II.E.6 of
the NPDES permit.
06/16/2016
Permittee/Submitter Signature:*** Sandra Phillips E-Mail:[e-mail] Phone #:[phone] ext. 1605 Date
Permittee Address:300 Crystal Dr Spruce Pine NC 28777 Permit Expiration Date:02/29/2016
I certify,under penalty of law,that this document and all attachments were prepared under my direction or supervision in accordance with a system designed
to assure that qualified personnel properly gather and evaluate the information submitted.Based on my inquiry of the person or persons who managed the
system,or those persons directly responsible for gathering the information,the information submitted is,to the best of my knowledge and belief,true,
accurate,and complete.I am aware that there are significant penalties for submitting false information,including the possibility of fines and imprisonment for
knowing violations.
CERTIFIED LABORATORIES
LAB NAME:Crystal Plant Laboratory
CERTIFIED LAB#:NCO1657
PERSON(,)COLLECTING SAMPLES:ORC and operators
PARAMETER CODES
Parameter Code assistance may be obtained by calling the NPDES Unit(919)807-6300 or by visiting http://portal.nedenr.org/web/wq/swp/ps/npdes/fonns.
FOOTNOTES
Use only units of measurement designated in the reporting facility's NPDES permit for reporting data.
*No Flow/Discharge From Site:Check this box if no discharge occurs and,as a result,there are no data to be entered for all of the parameters on the DMR
for entire monitoring period.
**ORC on Site?:ORC must visit facility and document visitation of facility as required per 15A NCAC 8G.0204.
***Signature of Penmittee:If signed by other than the permittee,then delegation of the signatory authority must be on file with the state per 15A NCAC 2B
.0506(b)(2)(D).

Dec. 12. 2014 12: 52PM No, 0 16 1 P, 2
Water Pollution Control SysterA ORC Designation) Form
WPCSOCC
NCAC 15A.:08G.0201
Permittee Owner/Officer Name:Unilnin Corporation—Crygal Vacility/Sandra Phillips
Mailing Address: Post Office Box 588
City: Spruce Pine State: NC Zip:28777- Phone#: [phone]
Signature: Dater
■�rr�irirra■■■■■rrr■rrrrrrrrrn�rr■rrr■rrrrrrr■■rrr■■■■rr.a■rerrrrarrrrrreL.r■
Facllity Name: Unimin C rporation—Crystal Facility permit#: NC0084620
SUBMff A SEPARATE FORM FOR EACH TYPE OF SYSTEM!
Facility Tyne/GJrAde,
Biological WWTP Surface Irrigation
Physical/Chelnical 2 Land Application
Collection System
■■a■■�r■■rrrrr■r<■■■ie■■r■ir■■■■■rrrrrr�rr���r<■�=�■■�tt■r�r■r■■�K■■rr■■■■rirrrr
Operator in Responsible Charge(QRC)
Print Full Name: Stgphen Andrew WiIson
Certificate Type/Grade umber:PC/Gm 11/986002 Work Phone#: [phone]
Signature: Date: 1
"l certify Ilrat I agree to my de4igna Lion as die Operator in Responsible Charge for the facility noted.I understand and will abide by the
rules Lind regulations pertaining to the responsibilities of tho ORC as sct forth in 15A NCAC 08a.0204 slid failing to do so can fault in
Disciplinary Actions by the WaterFollutl0n Control System Operators Certifrcalion Cornrnissiarrn"
■arrrrrrsrarirr>r■■r■rrwr■■■■■>t■■■■■�■rrrrr■■a■■irr■=r:■r■rrri,rrw■'■■y>•■Y■
Bach-Up Operator in Responsible Charge (BU ORC)
Print Full Name: Sandra PMUips
Certificate Type/Grade/Nulrlber:PC/Cxxa e Il/28633 Work Phone#:[phone]
" '�� Date: 12IZ�1
Signature:.l34/,la��.�I�J,(,�(,rt(p �{
`'I certify lhpt I agree to my designation as The Operator in Responsible Charge for the facility noted.I understand n,td will abide by the
riles and regulations pertaining to the responsibilitics of Tile ORC as set forth in 15A NCAC 08Q.0204 and failing to do so can rrsult in
Disciplinary Actious by the Water Pollution Con■rol System Operators Certification Commission."
■irrrrrrwrrrRRn■■■■■■■>,><■■r■■rrrrrrarrr=■■rrarrTtrrrerxr■r■■■■■■■r■r■rrrrr
Mail,fax 01-girrnil the orlgMallo: WPCSOCC,1618 MA Service
Conter,Raleigh,NC 27699-1616 Pax:
9I9.807.6492
Entnll:certadminQrrcdenr.gov
Afall orfar a e0py to Me Asheville FayettevllIe hlooreS%ILIL Raleigh
approprWe Reglaval 2090 US Hwy 70 225 Green St 610 B Center AN a 3800 Barrett Dr
Ofj7ce; Swaananoa2%778 SuiLe714 806301 RAIeigh21609
Fax:828.7,99,7043 Payultville28301-5043 Mooresville28115 Fax:919.571A718
Phone:[phone] Fax:[phone] Favt 704.663.6040 Phone.9I9.791.4200
Phone,910.433.3300 Phone.-704.663.1699
'Lyashington- Svllmingion MInbton-Salem
94315rashingion Sq hiall 127 Cardinal Dr 585 whaghtown St
Washingl01127889 WIlinington28405-2845 Winsran-SaIem27107
Fax:[phone] Faz:910.350-2018 Fax!336,171.4631
Phone:252.9d6.6481 Phone:[phone] MOM;336.171.5000
Revised 02-2013

o
Unimin Corporation Crystal Facility 0RC (Permit#NC4084620)
Jeff Ferguson to: certadmin 12J12f2014 01:39 PM "
Cc: Sandra Phillips,Steve Wilson
Please find attached ORC designation firm for Unimin Corporation's Crystal Facifity(Permit No. NCO084620),
The primary ORC is now Stephen Andrew Wilson with noted backup ORC Sandra Phillips.
Other backup ORCs for the facility remain Rick Singleton, Dane-Christman& Dennis Johnson,
Thank you for your help with this matter.
Jeff Ferguson
141212 XL ORC form Add Steve Prfmary.pdf
z
0
6
U

UNIMIN
Corporate Environmental Affairs
Unimin Corporation
258 Elm St.
New Canaan, CT 06840
(Phone) 800/223-2236 • (Fax)203/966-0351
February 9, 2015
Wastewater Branch
Water Quality Permitting Section RECEIVED
of Water Resources Division of Water Resources
1617 Mail Service Center
Raleigh,NC 27699-1617
F E B 1 -7 2015
Subject: Delegation of Signature Authority
Unimin Corporation—LC--- stal'Facility Water Quality Regional Operations
NPDES Numberffl 62'0 ' Asheville Regional office
To Whom It May Concern:
By notice of this letter, I hereby delegate signatory authority to each of the following individuals for all
permit applications, discharge monitoring reports, and other information relating to the operations at
Unimin Corporation—Crystal Facility as required by all applicable federal, state, and local
environmental agencies specifically with the requirements for signatory authority as specified in 15A
NCAC 2B.0506.
Sandra Phillips Crystal Plant Manager
Rick Singleton Red Hill Plant Manager
Mike Vencill Regional General Manager
If you have any questions regarding this letter,please contact Jeff Ferguson at(828) 765-1114 ext. 1602.
Respectfully,
UNIMIN CORPORATION
Andrew G. Bradley
SVP/Environmental Affairs
CC: EA Files, Sandra Philli s,Rick Singleton,Mike Vencill
llWR Asheville Regional Cffice,;2090 US:'Hwy:'70,—Swannano5, TC2'87_78�°
Water Quality Permitting Section, 1617 Mail Service Center,Raleigh,NC 27699-1617

Cantwell,Janet
From: Davidson, Landon
Sent: Tuesday, September 15, 2015 4:11 PM
To: Sandra Phillips
Cc: Cantwell,Janet
Subject: RE: NOV-2015-OV-0012
Ms. Phillips-
We are considering a rescission to the NOV but I had a few questions. Based on your NOV response,you and your
operators should note the following points note action itm in red)
1. In the "Facility Reporting Guide" (seepage 2,Section 3.1.3) it states: the Operator in Responsible Charge"/
ORC defaults to the first name in the list (drop down box). In this case it is Steve Wilson. Greene had to have
clicked his,own name and saved it to have it show up as the ORC.
ail�?!�Please rndicatewho exactivasaopr ng„`atiChe 1rt"in pril an May 20�15.
3. The EDIVIR system allows a comments section which provided your operator a place to include a narrative
explaining this issue. Additionally, an operator can contact this office or Raleigh to discuss issues relating to
EDMRs.
Thanks.
G. Landon Davidson, P.G.
NCDENR- Division of Water Resources
Water Quality Regional Operations Section
Regional Supervisor-Asheville Regional Office
2090 U.S. Hwy. 70
Swannanoa, N.C. 28778
ph.: 828-296-4500
fax: [phone]
email: [e-mail]
website: www.ncwatergualitV.org
Need help with other DENR permits? http://porta1.ncdenr.org/web/deao/permit-directory
Notice:Per Executive Order No.150, all emails sent to and from this account are subject to the North Carolina Public Records Law
and may be disclosed to third parties.
From: Sandra Phillips [mailto:[e-mail]]
Sent: Wednesday, September 09, 2015 4:05 PM
To: Davidson, Landon
Cc: Cantwell, Janet; Doug Losee; Jeff Ferguson; Elizabeth Leaderman; Mike Vencill
Subject: RE: NOV-2015-OV-0012
Dear Mr. Davidson,
Based on the response provided, Unimin respectfully requests that NOV-2015-OV-0012 be rescinded. The error
was encountered when the .csv file was uploaded to the eDMR; the designation of Steve Wilson was
automatically overwritten to Andy Greene as he (Andy) signed into the website to complete data entry.
Further,the Crystal Plant currently has five Back-up ORCs listed on the eDMR website, and a properly
designated ORC of the appropriate PC-2 Grade (Steve Wilson). Our NPDES permit NC0084620, Part Il,
Section C. (lb) states that the back-up ORC must possess a valid certificate no more than one grade less than
1

the grade of the system; Andy Greene possesses a PC-1 Grade certificate aiiu is currently listed as a back-up
ORC.
For these reasons above, Unimin respectfully requests that the NOV-2015-OV-0012 be rescinded. Thank you
for your consideration.
Best Regards,
Sandra Phillips
Unimin Crystal Plant Manager
LEGAL NOTICE:
a
Unless expressively stated otherwise, this message is confidential and fray be privileged. It is intended for the
addressee(s) only. Access to this email by anyone else is unauthorized. If you are not an addressee, any
disclosure or copying of the contents of this email or any action taken(or not taken) in reliance on it is
unauthorized and may be unlawful. If you are not an addressee,please inform the sender immediately. il
HIPAA NOTICE:
Additionally, this message may contain Protected Health Information (PHI). If so,the addressee(s) is reminded
of our obligation to follow all HIPAA Privacy Regulations.
"'Davidson, Landon" ---09/08/2015 01:41:15 PM---Thank you for this explanation. Landon
From: "Davidson,Landon" <Iandon.davidson a ncdenr.aov>
To: Sandra Phillips<SPhillips(2unimin.com>
Date: 09/08/2015 01:41 PM
Subject: RE:NOV-2015-OV-0012
Thank you for this explanation.
Landon
G. Landon Davidson, P.G.
NCDENR - Division of Water Resources
Water Quality Regional Operations Section
Regional Supervisor-Asheville Regional Office
2090 U.S. Hwy. 70
Swannanoa, N.C. 28778
ph.: 828-296-4500
fax: [phone]
email: [e-mail]
website: www.ncwaterguality.org
Need help with other DENR permits? http://porta1.ncdenr.org/web/deao/permit-directory
Notice: Per Executive Order No. 150, all emails sent to and from this account are subject to the North Carolina
Public Records Law and may be disclosed to third parties.
From: Sandra Phillips [mailto:[e-mail]]
2

_,ent: Tuesday, September 08, _�15 1:26 PM
To: Davidson, Landon; Cantwell, Janet
Cc: Jeff Ferguson; Doug Losee; Elizabeth Leaderman; Karen Habben; Susan Armentrout; Steve
Wilson; Andy Greene; Mike Vencill
Subject: NOV-2015-OV-0012
Dear Mr. Davidson,
Please find the attached response to NOV-2015-OV-0012 Unimin Crystal Plant NPDES Permit No.
NC0084620. The original letter will be mailed today, September 8, 2015. Please contact me at 828-
765-7445 if you have any questions or need additional information. Thank you.
Best Regards,
Sandra Phillips
Unimin Crystal Plant Manager
136 Crystal Dr.
Spruce Pine, NC 28777
[phone]
LEGAL NOTICE:
Unless expressively stated otherwise, this message is confidential and may be privileged. It is
intended for the addressee(s) only. Access to this email by anyone else is unauthorized. If you are
not an addressee, any disclosure or copying of the contents of this email or any action taken (or not
taken) in reliance on it is unauthorized and may be unlawful. If you are not an addressee, please
inform the sender immediately.
HIPAA NOTICE:
Additionally, this message may contain Protected Health Information (PHI). If so, the addressee(s)
is reminded of our obligation to follow all HIPAA Privacy Regulations.
----- Forwarded by Sandra Phillips/Unimin on 09/08/2015 12:56 PM-----
From.: donotreplyCrystal.com
To: "Sandy" <[e-mail]>
Date: 09/08/2015 12:51 PM
Subject:
This E-mail was sent from "RNPE24311" (Aficio MP C5000) .
Scan Date: 09. 08 . 2015 11 : 57 : 58 (-0400)
Queries to: donotreplyCrystal . com(See attached file: 20150908115758728.pdf
3

Sep. 29. 2010 4;38PM No. 0751 P. 2
Mf * UnIMIn
. 7 1 y.4 4�W4
Crystal Plant,
Unitnin Corporation
136 CrysW Dtive•Spruce Tine,NC 28777
(PHONE)828/765.1114 d,{BAD 828/765-4755
September 29,2010
Mr.Keith Haynes,Environmental Specialist
NC D)BNR,DWQ—Surface Water protection
2090 US Highway 70
Swannanoa,NC 28778
828-296-4500
Dear Mr.Haynes:
On Friday, September 24, 2010, Jeff Ferguson contacted Janet Cantwell to report elevated fluoride
content of a very small stream entering Grassy Creek. Initially a small amount of foam was observed in a
collection pool near Grassy Creek, a sample was taken in an attempt to identify the foam; a fluoride level of
approximately 4 ppm was discovered. Plant personnel followed the water up the small stream where fluoride
levels progressively increased to approximately 11 ppm, then drastically reduced to fluoride levels typical of
naturally occurring streams in the area. A natural storm water collection area was observed in this area that
entered the small stream, samples indicated that the storm water was also elevated; approximately 40 ppm. The
collection area was bermed to prevent elevated fluoride from flowing into the very small tributary reporting to
Grassy Creek, A sump pump was placed into the area and continues to pump to the wastewater treatment plant,
In an attempt to locate possible seepage from various areas of the plant that contain elevated fluoride
water, plant personnel added liquid dye to each containment area to verify that containments are still functioning
properly. To date two areas that contain elevated fluoride water on a daily basis were dyed,no evidence of the
dye seeping out of the areas has been observed. Today another containment area will be dyed, followed by two
additional areas. The plant will be shutdown over the weekend to further investigate possible sources of the
elevated fluoride.
Samples in the storm water area as well as samples in Grassy Creek Will continue to be monitored. The
integrity of the water in Grassy Creek has not been affected, fluoride levels range between 0.1 to 0.4 ppm, typical
of naturally occurring streams in the area.
Sampling and monitoring will continue until a source is identified, At that point, modifications will be
immediately implemented to eliminate any possible sources. We are aggressively seekijng the source and will
utilize any resources required to alleviate the issue as soon ass possible.
Sincerely,
Denny Bud nau
Safety/Health&Environmental Affairs Supervisor
Unimin Crystal Plant

Sep, 29. 2010 4:38PM No, 0751 P. 1
I M in 0 AIL
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Crystal Plant
Melling: PO Box 588
Shlpping: 136 Crystal Drive
Spruce Pine, NC 28777
Phone: [phone]
Fax: ($28)765 4755
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INCDENR
North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources
Division of Water Quality .
Pat McCrory Charles Wakild, P. E. John E. Skvarla, III
Governor Director Sprr(-tqry
RECEIVED
March 11,2013
MAR 1 8 2013
Mr.Jeffrey S.Ferguson,P.E.
Unimin Corporation DNN.'QvSurface Water Protection section
P.O.Box 588 Ashelride R:giunal Office
Spruce Pine, NC 28777
Subject: NPDES Permit Correction
Permit No.NCO084620
Unimin Corporation-Crystal Facility
Facility Class II
Mitchell County
Dear Mr.Ferguson:
Division personnel have determined that the expiration date of the subject permit is
incorrect. Accordingly,we are forwarding the attached NPDES discharge permit. This permit
is issued pursuant to the requirements of North Carolina General Statute 143-215.1 and the
Memorandum of Agreement between North Carolina and the U.S.Environmental Protection
Agency dated October 15,2007(or as subsequently amended).
Please replace the current permit cover page with the attached page. Note that the
correct permit expiration date is February 29,2016.
If any parts,measurement frequencies or sampling requirements contained in this
permit are unacceptable to you,you have the right to an adjudicatory hearing upon written
request within thirty(30) days following receipt of this letter. This request must be in the form
of a written petition,conforming to Chapter 150B of the North Carolina General Statutes,and
filed with the Office of Administrative Hearings,6714 Mail Service Center,Raleigh,North
Carolina 27699-6714. Unless such a demand is made,this permit shall be final and binding.
Please take notice that this permit is not transferable. The Division may require
modification or revocation and reissuance of the permit. This permit does not affect the legal
requirements to obtain other permits,which may be required by the Division of Water Quality,
1617 Mail Service Center,Raleigh,North Carolina 27699-1617
Location,512 N.Salisbury St.Raleigh,North Carolina 27604
Phone:[phone] FAX:[phone]
Internet:wwvv,ncwaterouality.org • �T 7;,,
An Equal Opportunity lAffirmative Action Employer 1'I ofthCaroJ�. a
NR'tlo wil1Y

Mr.Jeffrey Ferguson
March 11,2013
Page 2 of 2
or permits required by the Division of Land Resources,Coastal Area Management Act,or any
other Federal or Local governmental permits maybe required.
If you have any questions or need additional information,please contact Ms.Jacquelyn
Nowell at telephone number(919) 807-6386.
4
Sincerely,
v�
Charles Wakild,P.E.
Attachments cc: Asheville Regional_-office/Surface Water Protecti6:Section(ecopy) '
Aquatic Toxicology (ecopy)
NPDES File
Central Files

Permit Number: NCO084620
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA
DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENT AND NATURAL RESOURCES
DIVISION OF WATER QUALITY
PERMIT
TO DISCHARGE WASTEWATER UNDER THE
NATIONAL POLLUTANT DISCHARGE ELIMINATION SYSTEM
In compliance with the provisions of North Carolina General Statute 143-215.1, other lawful
standards and regulations promulgated and adopted by the North Carolina Environmental
Management Commission, and the Federal Water Pollution Control Act, as amended,the
Unimin Corporation
is hereby authorized to discharge wastewater from a facility located at
Crystal Facility
136 Crystal Drive
Spruce Pine
Mitchell County
to receiving waters designated as the North Toe River in the French Broad River Basin in
accordance with effluent limitations,monitoring requirements, and other conditions set forth in
Parts I, II,III and IV hereof.
This permit shall become effective June 1,2012.
This permit and authorization to discharge shall expire at midnight on February 29,2016.
Signed this day April 30, 2012.
Charles Wakild,P.E.,Director
Division of Water Quality
By Authority of the Environmental Management Commission
1

Permit Number: NCO084620
SUPPLEMENT TO PERMIT COVER SHEET
All previous NPDES Permits issued to this facility, whether for operation or discharge are
hereby revoked, and as of this issuance, any previously issued permit bearing this number is no
longer effective. Therefore, the exclusive authority to operate and discharge from this facility
arises under the permit conditions,requirements,terms, and provisions included herein.
The Unimin Corporation Crystal Facility is hereby authorized to:
1. Continue operation of a wastewater treatment plant for process wastewater from mineral
extraction consisting of-
* mix/reactor tanks
• lime and polymer feed systems
• thickener
• 700,000 gallon earthen effluent solids settling pond
• Ultrasonic water level transducer
• 3 0 HP sump pump
• drum filter
• pH adjustment and
• flow measurement.
The Crystal Facility is located at 136 Crystal Drive, Spruce Pine,Mitchell County,and
2. Discharge treated process wastewater from said treatment works through Outfall 001 at
the locations specified on the attached map into the North Toe River,which is classified
C Trout waters,in the French Broad River Basin.
2

I I
- i
I
Unimin Corporation U !
A To C No. 084620A02 C
REIi.-,
Issued October 17,2008 JUN Q g 2012
;I
1 atll Final ice Sa9919
Engineer's Certification !
I
r I "�5 P"d(t ,as a duly registered Professional Engineer in I
the State of North Carolina,having been authorized to observe(periodically/weekly/full time)
the construction of the modifications and improvements to the Crystal Operation WWTP, located
on NCSR 1117 Road in Mitchell County for the Unimin Corporation,hereby state that,to the
best of my abilities, due care and diligence was used in the observation of the following
construction: !
f
Installation of a 700,000 gallon earthen effluent solids settling pond lined with a 40-mi
HDPE liner; an ultrasonic water level transducer N�,ired to a high water level alarm and
automatic pump off switch; 300 feet of 6-inch diameter HDPE pipe;a�O(HP effluent
pump; and a 30 HP sump pump, in conformity with the project plans,s�e`'cillt'ations, and
other supporting data subsequently filed and approved by the Department of Envirorunent
and Natural Resources.
I -
I certify that the constructioi}'Qf the above referenced project was observed to be built within
substantial compliance andiii tent of the approved plans and specifications. !
I r t\ J . - I
Si nature- Gam.-� �G g z
I g � Re istration No. ( 7
Date
� ti;Jan '.}.;"?a(,.'.:.:•....
Send to: Construction Grants&Loans
DENR/DWQ 00—E L °
I
1633 Mail Service Center a �
Raleigh,NC 27699-1633 �; °°•F�VO
Ile
'• tea M.
�1�31►Fbitid��
SEP — 5 2012 Ll
W4�i-F C.' ,"LITY�_�i"ION
4 ..,...`.., aFhl. „`�-i+tru-.s...n ia,:'(x.±s:u t..r-..%;•i:..., ..
-ems,,..,, a=r;•>,t,.._.:M.,.:,.�,n ..m.... .. ". ,_..<. �

d
Environmental Affairs
I
Unimin Corporation
136 Crystal Djdve o Spruce Pine,NC 28777
(PHONE)828/765-1114 o(FAQ)828/765-4755
November 5, 2012
Ms.Jacquelyn M. Nowell
Complex Permitting Unit
NCDENR/DWQ/Point Source Branch
1617 Mail Service Center
Raleigh,North Carolina 27699-1617
I
Subject: Unimin Corporation—Crystal Facility
NPDES Permit No. NCO084620
Spruce Pine, North Carolina,Mitchell County
Dear Ms. Nowell:
I
Per my telephone discussions with Mr. Chuck Cranford,Asheville Regional Supervisor,
Division of Water Quality (DWQ) on October 22, 2012 and per your email sent to Mr. Cranford on
that day, I am submitting notification of minor changes to be implemented to the waste water
I treatment at Unimin Corporation's Crystal Facility.
In order to help reduce the amount of discharged fluoride to the N.Toe River,the Crystal
Facility plans to utilize calcium chloride at —34%by weight CaC12 manufactured by TETRA I
i Chemicals (see attached MSDS Sheet). The initial dosage is planned at approximately 5 gallons per
400,000 gallons discharged, equating to approximately 0.00125%. The maximum dosage utilized will
be approximately 10 gallons per 400,000 gallons equating to approximately 0.0025%. The CaC12 will
be added in a mix tank prior to the thickener.
This implementation will be initiated in November of 2012. Per your email to Mr. Cranford,
if the addition becomes permanent and the previous additive is no longer used,then a minor
modification will be submitted to DWQ. If you have any questions regarding this matter or requite
further information,please do not hesitatp.teT6 ct me at [phone] ext. 1602.
Sincerely,
J
Jeffrey S. Fer son P. E.
NOV _ Sr. Environmental Engineer
} q�,UNIMIN CORPORATION
c: EA Files, pe n�$�x�tariarz,ianc�ia P.kullips"�h��fi����.or '`a T`G►' '+ s��T` re=a •al ;:f Tee)
r ...
I

TETRA Technologies, Inc. J. L——J L7' I I ice-•0 1
Material Safety Data Sheet
t '!� I!.. NOV - 7 2012
I
e �ur1 �h Jr:Y_!i 1 TIC}
Calcium Chloride 01
1. PRODUCT AND COMPANY IDENTIFICATION
TETRA Technologies, Inc. CHEMTREC(24-Hr Emergency Response): U.S. Toll Free [phone]
24955 Interstate 45 North International [phone]
The Woodlands,TX 77380 Non-emergency Customer Service: [phone]
Synonyms: Liquid Calcium Chloride, Road Master TM, SupersetTm, Food Grade Liquid Calcium
Chloride
Chemical Family: Inorganic Salt
MSDS Creation Date: 03/01/1994
MSDS Revision Date: 1 1/04/2010
2. HAZARDS IDENTIFICATION
HMIS Ratings: (Scale 0-4) Health: 1 Fire: 0 Reactivity: 0
Odorless, clear to amber liquid.
I
EMERGENCY OVERVIEW: WARNING: May cause irritation to skin, eyes and respiratory tract. Harmful if
swallowed or inhaled.Avoid contact with skin, eyes, or clothing.Avoid breathing
mist. Use good personal hygiene and housekeeping.
Primary Routes of Exposure: Inhalation. Skin and/or eye contact. Ingestion.
Potential Acute Health Effects
Skin Contact: May cause skin irritation.
Eye Contact: May irritate or burn eyes.
Inhalation: Mist inhalation may irritate nose, throat, and lungs. May cause nosebleeds.
Ingestion: May irritate gastrointestinal tract and cause nausea and vomiting.
3.. COMPOSITION, INFORMATION ON INGREDIENTS !
CAS Number I Wt. % Ingredient Name
10043-52-4 20-45% Calcium Chloride
4. FIRST AID MEASURES
Remove contaminated clothing and shoes. Wash affected area with soap or mild
Skin Contact: detergent.
Eye Contact: Flush eyes promptly with water, continuing for at least 15 minutes. If irritation or
adverse symptoms develop, seek medical attention.
Inhalation:
Remove from exposure. If breathing is difficult or irritation develops, seek medical
I attention. I
Ingestion: Get medical attention. Do not induce vomiting unless directed to do so by a
physician.
Notes to Physician: Treat symptomatically and supportively.
Calcium Chloride Solution (11-2010) Page 1 of 5
I
N.E. = Not Established
N/A= Not Applicable
I
I

i
TETRA Technologies, Inc.
Material Safety Data Sheet o
Calcium Chloride Solution
5. FIRE FIGHTING MEASURES �
Flash Point: N/A
Extinguishing Media: Use extinguishing media appropriate for surrounding fire.
Fire Fighting: Negligible fire hazard; not applicable.
Fire and Explosion Hazard: Negligible
Products of Combustion: Non-combustible
6a AC- CIDENTAL RELEASE MEASURES
Wear appropriate protective gear for the situation. See personal protection
Evacuation and Safety: information in Section 8. isolate area. Keep authorized personnel from entering the
area. Use appropriate safety equipment.
Dike the spilled liquid, and either pump back into original container or cover with
Containment/Clean Up of Spill: sand or clay-type substance for absorption. Spilled material may cause a slipping
hazard.
I
7. HANDLING AND STORAGE
Handling: Avoid skin and eye contact and breathing vapors or mists. Wash thoroughly after
handling. Launder contaminated clothing before reuse.
Observe all federal, state, and local regulations when storing this product. Store in
Storage: a tightly closed container away from incompatible materials. Do not store in
metals which this solution corrodes.
8. EXPOSURE CONTROLS/PERSONAL PROTECTION
Provide local exhaust ventilation system. Where there is possibility of exposure,
Engineering Controls: eye wash fountain and safety shower should be provided within the immediate
work area for emergency use.
Exposure Limits: ACGIH—(TLV-TWA) Guideline for nuisance particulate(liquefied mist): 10 mg/m3
Personal Protective Equipment(PPE)
Eyes: Wear safety glasses with splash shields or safety goggles/shields.
Hands and Feet: Wear appropriate non-leather protective gloves and boots.
Body: Wear appropriate normal work clothing. Leather work boots and/or leather
products will dehydrate with resultant shrinkage and possible destruction.
Respiratory: Respirator not generally required. For misty conditions,wear NIOSH approved
mist respirator.
9. PHYSICAL AND CHEMICAL PROPERTIES
Appearance: Clear to amber liquid
Odor: Odorless
Odor Threshold: N.E.
pH: 3.8—9.0
Melting Point/Freezing Point: N.E.
Calcium Chloride Solution (11-2010) Page 2 of 5
N.E. = Not Established
N/A= Not Applicable
{

I
I i
TETRA Technologies, Inc. o
Material Safety Data Sheet m
Calcium Chloride 6oMi®n
Boiling Point: 1180C (244°F)for 38%solution
I
Flash Point: N/A i
Upper/Lower Flammability
Limits: N/A
Evaporation Rate: N.E.
Vapor Pressure: N.E.
Vapor Density(Air=1): N.E.
Specific Gravity(H2O=1): 1.376 @ 25°C(77°F)for 38%solution
Water Solubility: Complete
Partition Coefficient: N.E.
Freezing Point: N.E.
Auto-Ignition Temperature: N/A
1 Decomposition Temperature: N.E.
Viscosity: N.E.
10, STABILITY AND REACTIVITY
Stability and Reactivity: Stable under normal temperatures and pressures.
Incompatibilities: Strong oxidizing agents.
If liquid completely dries from fire, thermal decomposition products may include
Hazardous Decomposition: toxic and corrosive fumes of chlorine and hydrogen chloride. Product may react
j with some metals aluminum,zinc, tin, etc. to release flammable hydrogen as.
Polymerization: Does not occur under normal temperatures and pressures.
Conditions to Avoid: None.
11. TOXICOLOGICAL INFORMATION
Anhydrous Calcium Chloride:
TDLo: 112/kg, oral, 20 weeks, rat
LDLo: 274 mg/kg, subcutaneous, dog
Toxicity Data: LD50: 1000 mg/kg,,oral, rat
LD50: 264 mg/kg, intraperitoneal, rat
Moderately toxic by ingestion. Slightly toxic by dermal absorption.
Carcinogen Status: OSHA— No NTP— No IARC— No
I
12; ECOLOGICAL INFORMATION.
Product will not biodegrade or bioaccumulate. j
DISPOSAL -INFORMATION
j Observe all federal, state, and local regulations when disposing of this substance.
14. DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION.(DOT) TRANSPORT INFORMATION
UN Identification Number: Not DOT Regulated
UN Proper Shipping Name: N/A
Hazard Class or Division: N/A
Calcium Chloride Solution (11-2010) Page 3 of 5 I
I
N.E. = Not Established
N/A= Not Applicable j
� i

I
'I I
TETRA Technologies, Inc. '
Material Safety Data Sheet
I I
TETRA
j Calcium Chloride Solution
Packing Group: N/A
Marine Pollutant: NIA
Emergency Response Guide#: N/A
I
j 15. REGULATORY INFORMATION
SARA Title III:
Section 302/304 This product does not contain ingredients listed as an Extremely Hazardous Substance.
Immediate(Acute) Health Hazard: YES
I
Delayed (Chronic) Health Hazard: No
Section 311/312 Fire Hazard: No I
j Reactive Hazard: No
I
Sudden Release of Pressure Hazard: No
f
This product does not contain ingredients(at a level of 1%or greater)on the List of Toxic
Section 313
j Chemicals.
OTHER REGULATORY INFORMATION
TSCA Status: All components of this product are on the TSCA Inventory or are exempt from TSCA Inventory
requirements under 40 CFR 720.30
I
j California This product is not known to contain any chemicals currently listed as carcinogens or reproductive
j Proposition 65 toxins under California Proposition 65 at levels which would be subject to the proposition.
16. OTHER INFORMATION
j Individuals handling this product should be informed of the recommended safety precautions and should have access
j to this information.
I
This information relates to the specific product designated and may not be valid for such product used in combination
with any other materials or in any other processes. Such information is to the best of our knowledge and belief,
accurate and reliable as of the date compiled. However, no representation, warranty or guarantee is made as to its
j accuracy, reliability, or completeness. It is the users' responsibility to satisfy themselves as to the suitability and
. completeness of such information for their own particular use.We do not accept liability for any loss or damage that
may occur from the use of this information nor do we offer warranty against patent infringement. j
� I
TETRA Technologies, Inc. reserves the right to refuse shipment of this product to any consumer who fails to
demonstrate the ability to consistently handle and use it safely and in compliance with all applicable laws, rules and
regulations. Such demonstration may require on-site inspection of any or all storage, processing, packaging and other j
handling systems that come in contact with it.
Customers are responsible for compliance with local, state and federal regulations that may be pertinent in the
j storage, application and disposal of this product.
I
j Calcium Chloride Solution (11-2010) Page 4 of
I I
N.E. =Not Established
N/A= Not Applicable
I �
I �

TETRA Technologies, Inc. ,
Material Safety Data Sheet
� � o
TIETEA
Calcium Chbride Solution
ISSUE DATE: 03/01/1994
PREPARED BY: TETRA Technologies, Inc. Corporate Health,Safety&Environment
Revision History: 12/20/2007
04/12/2010 Updated address
11/04/2010 Section(s)—1, 2, 4, 6, 9, 10, 14, 15
I
i
j
i
I
I
Calcium Chloride Solution (11-2010) Page 5 of5
N.E. = Not Established
N/A= Not Applicable
I

NCDENR
North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources
Division of Water Quality
Pat McCrory Thomas A. Reeder John E. Skvada, III
'Governor Acting Director I Secretary
l
July 24, 2013 1/
Sandra Phillips
,Unimin
!Crystal Plant
136 Crystal Drive
Spruce Pine,NC 28777
Subject: NOV-2013-W-0089 Retraction
Unimin Crystal Plant
Permit: NCO084620
Mitchell County
I
Dear Ms. Phillips:
Upon consideration of the information you provided in your letter dated July 15, 2013,the Division has
determined that retraction of the subject Notice of Violation is warranted.
Any future occurrences of failure to record flow data will result in issuance of a Notice of Violation. Flow is a
permit limit and must be monitored and reported as described in the permit.
Please contact me if I can be of further assistance.
Best regards,
I
ChuckYranf6rd, Regional Supervisor
Surface Water Protection Section
Asheville Regional Office
S:\SWP\Mitchell\Wastewater\lndustrial\Unimin Crystal 84620\NOV-2013-MV-0089.Retraction.7.24.13.doc
SURFACE WATER PROTECTION SECTION—ASHEVILLE REGIONAL OFFICE One
2090 U.S.Highway 70,Swannanoa,North Carolina 28778 NorthCarolina
Phone:[phone] FAX:[phone]
Internet: www.ncwaterquality.org
An Equal Opportunity l Affirmative Action Employer vv

Un! in
_
Crystal Plant
136 Crystal Dr.
Spruce Pine NC 28777
828-765-1114
Mr. Chuck Cranford
Regional Supervisor
Surface Water Protection Section
NC Division of Water Quality
2090 US Highway 70
Swannanoa,NC 28778
July 15, 2013
Dear Mr. Cranford:
In response to NOV-2013-MV-0089 concerning the Failure to Monitor Violation for April 2013;the
plant did not violate any permitted parameters. The "Daily Rate"was inadvertently left blank on the days
that the plant did not discharge to the river rather than stating"no flow".
I have,attached the amended DMR for April 2013 that indicates "no flow"for the Daily Rate on each day
when the plant did not discharge to the river. The plant was shut down in November of 2012 and has not
treated process water since this time. Storm water that collects in the fresh water pond, emergency ponds,
and storm water collection areas is sent through the waste plant and discharged intermittently to prevent
overfilling. I regret that this resulted in a Notice of Violation and formally request that it be rescinded as
there was no discharge of flow that violated any permitted parameter; all samples were collected and
analyzed as required. The electronic form of our DMR was modified to prepopulate"the Daily Rate column
with"no flow",to eliminate the possibility of recurrence. The plant continues to be shut down and will not
resume operation in the foreseeable future.
I apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused. If you have any questions please contact me at
828-765-1114 ext. 4205.
Sincerely,
Sandra Phillips
Unimin Crystal Plant Manager RECEIVED
cc: NC DWQ Central Files _ Jul 1 6 2013
Denny Buchanan
Jeff Ferguson
DWQ/Surface Water Pretmdae Sena+►
Ashevi
lle Regional Office

i
EFFLUENT
NPDES PERMIT NO. NCO084620 DISCHARGE NO. 001 MONTH April YEAR 2013
FACILITY NAME Unimin Crystal Plant CLASS 2 COUNTY Mitchell
(OPERATOR IN RESPONSIBLE CHARGE(ORC) Denny Buchanan GRADE 2 PHONE [phone]
CERTIFIED LABORATORIES (1)Crystal Plant Laboratory (2)
'CHECK BOX IF ORC HAS CHANGED PERSON(S)COLLECTING SAMPLES ORC and Operators
Mail ORIGINAL and ONE COPY to: x 11,5 13
ATTN: CENTRAL FILES (SIGNATURE OF OP TOR IN RESPONSIBLE CHARGE) ATE
DIVISION OF WATER QUALTI'Y BY THIS SIGNATUI I CERTIFY THAT THIS REPORT IS
I1617 MAIL SERVICE CENTER ACCURATE AND COMPLETE TO THE BEST OF MY KNOWLEDGE
k AUIGH,NC 27699-1617 NO FLOW/DISCEIARGE F'RO d SIB
50050 00400 00530 00545 100076 100951 00940 00530 00951 TGP3B
FLOW ENTER PARAMETER CODE
EFF[xl ABOVE NAME AND UNITS
INF[] BELOW
w O ❑ °' d m ': y� m m
O ti a v o v o
_�
A O� v Oa' tea' � `n w U On w E+
N O A onE-
HRS HRS Y/N MGD UNITS MG/L MLIL NTU MG/L MG/L LBS LBS P/F
11 0700 8 no flow , V o
Z n
12 0700 8 no flow ` 5ect�
13 0700 8 Y , 0.0204 7.8 '7 <0.1 1 19 2 3 ��o�ce
4 0700 8 no flow
0700 8 no flow
6 0700 8 no flow
7 0700 8 no flow S v
$ 0700 8 no flow
J 0700 8' no flow
10 0700 8 Y 0.1241 7.0 11 <0.1 4 20 35 11 21 P
Ill 0700 8 no flow
121 0700 8 no flow
0 0700 8 no flow
1,4 0700 8 no flow
'11,5 070,0 8 no flow
1',6 0700• 8 no flow
17 0700
8 no flow
18 0700 8 no flow
,19 •. 0700 8 Y 0.1326 8.4 26 <0.1 3 118 29. 19 1.
20 0700 8 no flow
2� 0700. 8 rioflow
22 0700 8 no flow
23 0700 8 no flow '
24 0700 8 no flow
25 0700 8 Y 6.0143 7.1 9 <0.1 2 19 1 2
26 0700 8 no flow
27 0700 8 no flow
28 0700 8 no flow
29 .0700 8 no flow
30 0700 8 no flow
31 0700 8
AVERAGE 0.0729 A` 13 <0.1 3 19 35 11 11
MA)MVIUM 0.1326 8.4 26 <0.1 4 20 35 29 21
MINIMUM 0.0143 7.0 7 <0.1 1 18 35 1 2
Comp.(C)/Grab(G) G C G G c C C C
Monthly Limit 0.553 133 50
DWQ Form IVIR 1(01/00)
I

Facility Status: (Please check one of the fa ng)
All monitoring data and sampling frequencies meet permit requirements
(including weekly averages, if applicable)
Compliant
All monitoring data and sampling frequencies do NOT meet permit requirements ❑
Noncompliant
The permittee shall report to the Director or the appropriate Regional Office any noncompliance that potentially threatens public
health or the environment. Any information shall be provided orally within 24 hours from the time the permittee became aware
of the circumstances. A written submission shall also be provided within 5 days of the time the permittee becomes aware of the i
circumstances.
If the facility is noncomp Haut,please attach a list of corrective actions tieing taken and a time-table for improvements to
be made as required by Part II.E.6 of the NF DES permit. �
i
I
"I certify,.under penalty of law,that this document and all attachments were prepared under my direction or supervision in
accordance with a system designed to assure that qualified personnel properly gather and evaluate the information.submitted.
Based on myinquil_y of the person or persons who managed the system,or those persons directly responsible for gathering the i
information,the information submitted is,to the best of my knowledge and belief,true, accurate, and complete. I am aware that
there are significant penalties for submitting false information,including the possibility of fines and imprisonment for knowing
violations."
Permittee (]Please pDrirrt or type)
Signature of Permittee*** Date
(Required unless submitted electronically)
134, mil.AJ Z' Swa e_y iDrlk? i1?t' Z9177 RE 70511a%� 4&OP- 1 w1un
Permittee Address Phone Number e-mail address Permit Expiration Date
ADDITIONAL CERTIFIED LABORATORIES ;
Certified Laboratory(2) Certification No.
Certified Laboratory(3) Certification No.
Certified Laboratory(4) Certification No..
Certified Laboratory(5) Certification No.
PARAMETER CODES
Parameter Code assistance may be obtained by calling the NPDES Unit at(919)807-6300 or by visiting
http://portal.ncdear.org/web/wq/swp/Ps/npdes/appforms.
Use only units of measurement designated in the reporting facility's NPDES permit for reporting data.
Page 2

• ` •' 1 • • • r- • r- • � • it e•. • • r- • •-
.M••• • Mr•-•r M•r M•• • •• r•• ••• _••• •• �� •• •• rr • �• •r •• • •• •r• �r•

I
�FJ��
NCDENR
FIL
North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources
Division of Water Quality
" Pat McCrory Thomas A. Reeder John E. Skvarla, III
Governor Acting Director Secretary
July 10, 2013
Mr. Andrew G. Bradley,VP, Environmental Affairs
Unimin Corporation
258 Elm Street
New Canaan, Connecticut 06840
Subject: NOTICE OF VIOLATION
NOV-2013-MV-0089
Permit No. NCO084620
Crystal Operation
Mitchell County
Dear Mr. Bradley:
A review of Crystal Operation's monitoring report for April 2013 showed the following violations:
Parameter Date Measuring Violation
Frequency
Flow, in conduit or thru Week of 04/01/2013— Continuous Failure to Monitor
treatment plant 04/02/2013
I
Flow, in conduit or thru Week of 04/04/2013— Continuous Failure to Monitor
treatment plant 04/09/2013
Flow, in conduit or thru Week of 04/11/2013— Continuous Failure to Monitor
treatment plant 04/18/2013
i
Flow, in conduit or thru Week of 04/20/2013— Continuous Failure to Monitor
treatment plant 04/24/2013
Flow, in conduit or thru Week of 04/26/2013— Continuous Failure to Monitor
treatment plant 04/30/2013
It was also noted that the Compliance box on the back of the DMR was marked"Compliant"when in fact it should
have been marked"Non-Compliant'with an explanation for the non-compliance. If the above parameter was left off
inadvertently, please send an amended DMR within 10 business days of receipt of this letter to Raleigh at the
address found on the front page of your DMR and also a copy to this office.
I
Remedial actions should be taken to correct this problem. The Division of Water Quality may pursue enforcement
action for this and any additional violations of State law. If you should have any questions,please do not hesitate to
contact Janet Cantwell or me at 828/296-4500.
Sincerely,
Chuck CranYord, Regional Supervisor
Surface Water Protection Section
cc: D.WQ Avsheville Files :
DWQ Central Files
Sandra Phillips/Unimin Crystal Plant-Spruce Pine, NC
S:\SWP\Mitchell\Wastewater\Industrial\Unimin Crystal84620WOV-2013-MV-0089.doc Noe
Carolina
NWAMMIly
North Carolina Division of Water Quality 2090 U.S.Highway 70 Swannanoa,N.C. 28778 Phone[phone]
Internet: www.ncwaterouality.org FAX [phone]

r.
0
NCDENR
North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources
Division of Water Quality
Beverly Eaves Perdue Coleen H. Sullins Dee Freeman
Governor Director Secretary
SURFACE WATER PROTECTION SECTION
September 30, 2011
Mr. Karl Kuchta
Unimin Corporation
PO Box 588
Spruce Pine, NC 28777
SUBJECT: Compliance Evaluation Inspection
Crystal Operation WWTP
Permit No: NCO084620
Mitchell County
Dear Mr. Kuchta
Enclosed please find a copy of the Compliance Evaluation Inspection form from the
inspection conducted on September 14, 2011. The facility was found to be in Compliance with
permit NC0084620.
Please refer to the enclosed inspection report for additional observations and comments.
If you or your staff should have any questions, please call me at 828-296-4662.
Sincerely,
Wanda P. Frazier
Environmental Specialist
Enclosure
f
cc: Central Files
S:\SWP\Mitchell\Wastewater\Industrial\Unimin Crystal 84620\CEI 9-14-11.doc
SURFACE WATER PROTECTION—ASHEVILLE REGIONAL OFFICE One
Location:2090 U.S. Highway 70,Swannanoa, NC 287784b\ NorthCarolina
Phone: [phone] Fax: [phone] Customer Service: 1-877-623-6748 �6ltlft'6I!!l�
Internet:www.ncwaterguality.org

o
NPDES yr/mo/day Inspection Type (Cont.) 1
3I NCO084620 I11 12I 11/09/14 I17 18ICI
Section D: Summary of Finding/Comments(Attach additional sheets of narrative and checklists as necessary)
Facility:
Unimin Corporation - Crystal Operation
Process: high purity quartz production facility—confidential processes &technology
WWTP class: Physical Chemical- II
WWTP type: 0.553 MGD mining and material processing plant consisting of two outfalls:
001 process water effluent(North Toe River) &
002 stormwater, which has never discharged (UT to Grassy Creek).
The 0.553 MGD WWTP consists of:
primary settling tank;
lime [calcium hydroxide- Ca(OH)2] slurry tank with 2 agitators;
lime and acrylamide (Drewfloc 2270 0) anionic polymer and cathodic polymer feed systems;
two flocculation/reactor tanks with mixers;
50 ft diameter circular thickener;
Eimco Process Equipment Company 0 drum filters;
chemical pH adjustment using sodium bicarbonate (Na2 CO3) and (rarely) sulfuric acid (H2SO4);
GLI model 53®pH analyzer;
ISCO 4210 ultrasonic continuous flow recorder and totalizer;
pump station with three discharge pumps; and
emergency holding pond.
Discharge:
As of May 31, 2011, Unimin - Crystal Operation has a separate direct discharge (for outfall 001)
into the North Toe River with a discharge limit of 50 Ibs/day monthly average total fluoride,
concurrently with The Feldspar Corporation's (NPDES NC0000353) allowable total fluoride reduced
by 50 Ibs/day monthly average.
Prior to that time, Unimin—Crystal Operation discharged via The Feldspar Corporation's
discharge point.
Annual Average Flow: 0.269 MGD (3 year average flow: 2007-2010)
On-site officials (at 136 Crystal Drive; Spruce Pine)
Jeffrey S. Ferguson, P.E.
Environmental Engineer(covers several states)
Sandra Phillips—Plant Manger
Denny Buchanan- Crystal Op, -ORC
i e
Page# 2

Permit: NCO084620 Owner-Facility: Crystal Operation
Inspection Date: 09/14/2011 Inspection Type: Compliance Evaluation
Operator information
WWTP ORC: Denny M. Buchanan—Cert. #987681 —PC- II
WWTP back-up ORC: Dane A. Christman—Cert. #996052— PC— II
Permit information
Date issued: 11-1-2010
Expiration date: 2-28-2011
Currently under review: Jackie Nowell (DWQ)
Inspection Summary:
The WWTP facility appears to be operating properly and is well maintained.
The WWTP discharge does not appear to have a negative impact on the receiving stream.
All stormwater is diverted to the head of the plant and does not discharge.
The facility appears to be in compliance with permit conditions.
Page# 3

Permit: NCO084620 Owner-Facility: Crystal Operation
Inspection Date: 09/14/2011 Inspection Type: Compliance Evaluation
Permit Yes No NA NE
(If the present permit expires in 6 months or less). Has the permittee submitted a new application? ❑ ❑ 0 ❑
Is the facility as described in the permit? ■ ❑ n
#Are there any special conditions for the permit? ■ ❑ 0
Is access to the plant site restricted to the general public? ■ 0 ❑ 0
Is the inspector granted access to all areas for inspection? ■ ❑ ❑ ❑
Comment:
Operations$Maintenance Yes No NA NE
Is the plant generally clean with acceptable housekeeping? ■ ❑ ❑ 0
Does the facility analyze process control parameters,for ex: MLSS, MCRT, Settleable Solids, pH, DO, Sludge ■ 11
Judge,and other that are applicable?
Comment: Facility monitors pH adjustments for process control.
Page# 4

v EID
Environmental Affairs MAY 2 5 2011
Unimin Corporation WATER QUALITY SECTION
ASHEVILLE REGIONAL C FICE
136 Crystal Drive*Spruce Pine,NC 28777 ---
(PHONE)828/766-6081•(FAQ 828/765-4755
-' - -.May 23,2011
Mr. Roger Edwards
Regional Supervisor
Division of Water Quality
2090 U.S. Hwy. 70
Swannanoa,North Carolina 28778
Subject: Initiation of Direct Discharge
Unimin Corporation-Crystal Facility
Spruce Pine,North Carolina,Mitchell County
Dear Mn Edwards:
I am submitting this letter as a courtesy notification that Unimin Corporation's
Crystal Facility (NPDES Permit No.,NCO084620)_currently plans to initiate direct discharge
of effluent to the North Toe River effective May 31,2011. The Crystal Facility's lab has
been certified by the Lab Certification Division and is prepared to proceed with direct
discharge bypassing The Feldspar Corporation's treatment facility. The Crystal Facility will
1 now adhere to a discharge limit of 50 lb/day monthly average total fluoride concurrently
with The Feldspar Corporation's NPDES Permit(NPDES Permit No.NC0000353)
allowable fluoride reduced by 50 lb/day monthly average. ORC designation forms are on
file with NCDENR and we feel that we have satisfied all requirements prior to initiating
direct discharge.
If you have any questions or comments regarding this matter,please do not hesitate
to contact me at(828) 765-1114 ext. 13.
Sincerely,
Jeffrey S.'Ferguson,P. E.
Environmental Engineer
UNIMIN CORPORATION
c: EA Files;Karl Kuchta,Sandra Phillips

i
r-ILE COPY
NCDENR
North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources
Division of Water Quality
Beverly Eaves Perdue Coleen H. Sullins Dee Freeman
iGovernor Director Secretary
January 31, 2011
Mr. Andrew G. Bradley, VP, Environmental Affairs
Unimin Corporation
258 Elm Street
New Canaan, Connecticut 06840
Subject: NOTICE OF VIOLATION
NOV-2011-MV-0028
Permit No��-N 0:08;4r
Unimin Crystal Operation
Mitchell County
Dear Mr. Bradley:
A review of Crystal Operation's monitoring report for(ctoperr_2q;10Rshowed the following violations:
Parameter Date Measuring Violation
Frequency
Flow, in conduit or thru Week ending 10/02/2010 Continuous Failure to Monitor
treatment plant
'Flow, in conduit or thru Week ending 10/09/2010 Continuous Failure to Monitor
treatment plant
.Flow, in conduit or thru Week ending 10/16/2010 Continuous Failure to Monitor
itreatment plant
Flow, in conduit or thru Week ending 10/23/2010 Continuous Failure to Monitor
treatment plant
Flow, in conduit or thru Week ending 1 013 0/2 0 1 0 Continuous Failure to Monitor
treatment plant
Flow, in conduit or thru 10/31/2010 Continuous Failure to Monitor
treatment plant
PH Week ending 10/02/2010 5 X/Week Failure to Monitor
pH Week ending 10/09/2010 5 X/Week Failure to Monitor
OH Week ending 10/16/2010 5 X/Week Failure to Monitor
pH Week ending 10/23/2010 5 X/Week Failure to Monitor
OH Week ending 10/30/2010 5 X/Week Failure to Monitor
Solids, Settleable Week ending 10/02/2010 5 X week Failure to Monitor
Solids, Settleable Week ending 10/09/2010 5 X week Failure to Monitor
Solids, Settleable Week ending 10/16/2010 5 X week Failure to Monitor NoAhCarolina
Naturally
North Carolina Division of Water Quality 2090 U.S.Highway 70 Swannanoa,N.C. 28778 Phone[phone] Customer Service
Internet: www.ncwaterguality.org FAX [phone] 1-877-623-6748

Mr.Andrew G.Bradley
January 31,2011
Page 2
Parameter Date Measuring Violation
Frequency
Solids, Settleable Week ending 10/232010 5 X week Failure to Monitor
Solids, Settleable Week ending 10/30/2010 5 X week . Failure to Monitor
Turbidity Week ending 10/02/2010 Weekly Failure to Monitor
Turbidity Week ending 10/23/2010 Weekly Failure to Monitor
Turbidity Week ending 10/30/2010 Weekly Failure to Monitor
Fluoride, Total (as F) Week ending 10/02/2010 Weekly Failure to Monitor
Fluoride, Total (as F) Week ending 10/23/2010 Weekly Failure to Monitor
Fluoride, Total (as F) Week ending 10/30/2010 Weekly Failure to Monitor
TSS—Lbs/day Week ending 10/02/2010 Weekly Failure to Monitor
TSS—Lbs/day Week.ending 10/23/2010 Weekly Failure to Monitor
TSS—Lbs/day Week ending 10/30/2010 Weekly Failure to Monitor
Compliance Issue:
Failure to include the reverse page of the DMR with the compliance status checked.
If the above parameters were left off inadvertently, please send an amended DMR within 10 business
days of receipt of this letter to Raleigh at the address found on the front page of your DMR and also a copy to this
office. Also include the reverse page of the DMR with the compliance status.
Remedial actions should be taken to correct this problem.The Division of Water Quality may pursue enforcement
action for this and any additional violations of State law. If you should have any questions,please do not hesitate to
contact Janet Cantwell at 828/296-4500.
Sincerely,
Roger C. Edwards, Regional Supervisor
Surface Water Protection Section
.o. N Ashes ev Ile�fles
DWQ Central Files
Denny Buchanan/ORC
Jeff Ferguson/ Unimin
S:\SWP\Mitchell\Wastewater\Industrial\Unimin Crystal 8462MNOV-2011-MV-0028.doc

`1
F!LE COPY
i;
NCD NR
North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources
Division of Water Quality
1 Beverly Eaves Perdue Coleen H. Sullins Dee Freeman
Governor Director Secretary
January 31, 2011
i
Mr. Andrew G. Bradley, VP, Environmental Affairs
Unimin Corporation
258 Elm Street
New Canaan, Connecticut 06840
Subject: NOTICE OF VIOLATION
NOV-2011-MV-0027
Permit No.logoo8�99*:
Unimin Crystal Operation
Mitchell County
Dear Mr. Bradley:
A review of Crystal Operation's monitoring report for"06teaher'2Q showed the following violations:
Parameter Date Measuring Violation
Frequency
Flow, in conduit or thru Week ending 09/04/2010 Continuous Failure to Monitor
,treatment plant
Flow, in conduit or thru Week ending 09/11/2010 Continuous Failure to Monitor
treatment plant
,Flow, in conduit or thru Week ending 09/18/2010 Continuous Failure to Monitor
(treatment plant
(Flow, in conduit or thru Week ending 09/25/2010 Continuous Failure to Monitor
treatment plant
Flow, in conduit or thru Week ending 09/30/2010 Continuous Failure to Monitor
treatment plant
OH Week ending 09/04/2010 5 X/Week Failure to Monitor
pH Week ending 09/11/2010 5 X/Week Failure to Monitor
pH Week ending 09/18/2010 5 X/Week Failure to Monitor
pH Week ending 09/25/2010 5 X/Week Failure to Monitor
Solids,.Settleable Week ending 09/04/2010 5 X week Failure to Monitor
Solids, Settleable Week ending 09/11/2010 5 X week Failure to Monitor
Solids, Settleable Week ending 09/18/2010 5 X week Failure to Monitor
Solids, Settleable Week ending 09/25/2010 5 X week Failure to Monitor
Turbidity Week ending 09/18/2010 Weekly Failure to Monitor
NorthCarolina
i �lltlfCll��j�
t ,rth Carolina Division of Water Quality 2090 U.S.Highway 70 Swannanoa,N.C. 28778 Phone[phone] Customer Service
Internet: www.ncwaterauality.org FAX [phone] 1-877-623-6748

Mr.Andrew G.Bradley
January 31,2011
Page 2
Parameter Date Measuring Violation
Frequency
Turbidity Week ending 09/25/2010 Weekly Failure to Monitor
Fluoride, Total (as F) Week ending 09/18/2010 Weekly Failure to Monitor
Fluoride, Total (as F) Week ending 09/25/2010 Weekly Failure to Monitor
TSS—Lbs/day Week ending 09/18/2010 Weekly Failure to Monitor
TSS—Lbs/day Week ending 09/25/2010 Weekly Failure to Monitor
Compliance Issue:
Failure to include the reverse page of the DMR with the compliance status checked.
If the above parameters were left off inadvertently, please send an amended DMR within 10 business
days of receipt of this letter to Raleigh at the address found on the front page of your DMR and also a copy to this
office. Also include the reverse page of the DMR with the compliance status.
Remedial actions should be taken to correct this problem. The Division of Water Quality may pursue enforcement
action for this and any additional violations of State law. If you should have any questions,please do not hesitate to
contact Janet Cantwell at 828/296-4500.
Sincerely,
� c.
Roger C. Edwards, Regional Supervisor
Surface Water Protection Section
Vic, yd�N�&t,s ev'illeMF les
DWQ Central Files
Denny Buchanan/ORC
Jeff Ferguson/ Unimin
S:ISWP1Mitchell\WastewaterllndustrialtUnimin Crystal 84620WnV-2011-MV-0027.doc

EFILE COpy
NCDENR
North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources
Division of Water Quality
Beverly Eaves Perdue Coleen H. Sullins Dee Freeman
Governor Director Secretary
January 31, 2011
Mr. Andrew G. Bradley, VP, Environmental Affairs
Unimin Corporation
258 Elm Street
New Canaan, Connecticut 06840
Subject: NOTICE OF VIOLATION
NOV-2011-MV-0026
Permit NoiN�gq#Q8,4;§.2Z
Unimin Crystal Operation
Mitchell County
Dear Mr. Bradley:
A review of Crystal Operation's monitoring report for.aaiiirudrtr2:Q'9mwowed the following violations:
Parameter Date Measuring Violation
Frequency
'Flow, in conduit or thru Week ending 08/07/2010 Continuous Failure to Monitor
treatment plant
Flow, in conduit or thru Week ending 08/14/2010 Continuous Failure to Monitor
treatment plant
Flow, in conduit or thru Week ending 08/21/2010 Continuous Failure to Monitor
treatment plant
low, in conduit or thru Week ending 08/28/2010 Continuous Failure to Monitor
treatment plant
Flow, in conduit or thru 08/31/2010 Continuous Failure to Monitor
treatment plant
PH Week ending 08/07/2010 5 X/Week Failure to Monitor
pH Week ending 08/14/2010 5 X/Week Failure to Monitor
pH Week ending 08/21/2010 5 X/Week Failure to Monitor
PH Week ending 08/28/2010 5 X/Week Failure to Monitor
pH 08/31/2010 5 X/Week Failure to Monitor
Solids, Settleable Week ending 08/07/2010 5 X week Failure to Monitor
Solids, Settleable Week ending 08/14/2010 5 X week Failure to Monitor
Solids, Settleable Week ending 08/21/2010 5 X week Failure-to Monitor
Solids, Settleable Week ending 08/28/2010 5 X week Failure to Monitor
tCarolina
urally
North Carolina Division of Water Quality 2090 U.S.Highway 70 Swannanoa,N.C. 28778 Phone[phone] Customer Service
Internet: www.ncwateraualitv.orn FAX [phone] 1-877-623-6748

Mr. AndrewG. Bradley
January 31,2011
Page 2
Parameter Date Measuring Violation
Frequency
Solids, Settleable 08/31/2010 5 X week Failure to Monitor
Turbidity Week ending 08/07/2010 Weekly Failure to Monitor
Turbidity Week ending 08/14/2010 Weekly Failure to Monitor
Turbidity Week ending 08/21/2010 Weekly Failure to Monitor
Fluoride, Total (as F) Week ending 08/07/2010 Weekly Failure to Monitor
Fluoride, Total (as F) Week ending 08/14/2010 Weekly Failure to Monitor
Fluoride, Total (as F) Week ending 08/21/2010 Weekly Failure to Monitor
TSS—Lbs/day Week ending 08/07/2010 Weekly Failure to Monitor
TSS—Lbs/day Week ending 08/14/2010 Weekly Failure to Monitor
TSS—Lbs/day :Week ending 08/21/2010 Weekly Failure to Monitor
Compliance Issue:
Failure to include the reverse page of the DMR with the compliance status checked.
If the above parameters were left off inadvertently, please send an amended DMR within 10 business
days of receipt of this letter to Raleigh at the address found on the front page of your DMR and also a copy to this
office. Also include the reverse page of the DMR with the compliance status.
Remedial actions should be taken to correct this problem. The Division of Water Quality may pursue enforcement
action for this and any additional violations of State law. If you should have any questions,please do not hesitate to
contact Janet Cantwell at 828/296-4500.
Sincerely,
Roger C. Edwards, Regional Supervisor
Surface Water Protection Section
c 'iDV11Q A'shev 11e1File
DWQ Central Files
Denny Buchanan/ORC
Jeff Ferguson/Unimin
S:1SWP%Mitchell\Wastewaterllndustrial\Unimin Crystal 846201NOV-2011-MV-0026.doc

Lt
WDENR
North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources ~:
r
Division of Water Quality
Beverly Eaves Perdue Coleen H. Sullins Dee Freeman
Governor Director Secretary
January 14, 2010
Andrew Bradley
Unimin Corporation
! PO Box 588
Spruce Pine NC 28777
Subject: Stormwater Concerns
Unimin Facilities
Avery and Mitchell Counties
Dear Mr. Bradley:
Due to the extremely wet weather your area has experienced over the last few months,
and the interest in the North Toe River by local citizens, this Office is continuing to receive an
abnormal amount of complaints/concerns, regarding all of the mining operations in the area.
Most of these concerns seem to be related to heavy rainfall events.
While this letter is not for NPDES permitted facilities alone, we are contacting all mining
related operations in the area to express our concern regarding this on-going matter. It is
imperative that all operations do their utmost to alleviate all excessive stormwater runoff and
comply with their respective NCG02 mining permit.
Additionally, if you have adjoining property owners that have stormwater runoff that
flows through your property,please contact this Office with the property owner name and
address so we can make sure that they are informed of this situation. It would also be good
information if we are made aware of any highway runoff which is routed through your property
via ditches or culverts. It is imperative that DOT do their best to help with the concerns also.
Any additional information regarding nearby property owners of which you are aware
should be sent to the attention of Keith Haynes,Division of Water Quality,2009 US HWY 70,
Swannanoa,NC 28778. We will then forward a similar letter to them.
Your cooperation in this matter is greatly appreciated. If you have any question regarding
these matters,please do not hesitate to contact Keith Haynes at 828-296-4500.
Sincerely,
Roger C. Edwards
Surface Water Protection Section Supervisor
Asheville Regional Office
SURFACE WATER PROTECTION—ASHEVILLE REGIONAL OFFICE
Location:2090 U.S.Highway 70,Swannanoa,NC 28778 NoAliCarolina
Phone:[phone]\FAX:[phone]\Customer Service:1-877-623-6748 Internet:www.ncwaterguality.org ;VdAma//
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U n M (I _ 1
OCT - 1 2010
Crystal Plant F '
Ci W^,TER OL)A LiTY SECTION
Unimin Corporation pr jr/IU REG OAI OFFICE
136 Crystal Drive Spruce Pine NC 28777 r � '
(PHONE)828/765-1114• (FAQ 828/765-4755 e�a
September 29, 2010
Mr. Keith Haynes, Environmental Specialist
NC DENR, DWQ— Surface Water Protection
2090 US Highway 70
Swannanoa,NC 28778
828-296-4500
Dear Mr.Haynes:
On Friday, September 24, 2010, Jeff Ferguson contacted Janet Cantwell to report elevated fluoride
content of a very small stream entering Grassy Creek. Initially a small amount of foam was observed in a
collection pool near Grassy Creek, a sample was taken in an attempt to identify the foam; a fluoride level of
approximately 4 ppm was discovered. Plant personnel followed the water up the small stream where fluoride
levels progressively increased to approximately 11 ppm, then drastically reduced to fluoride levels typical of
naturally occurring streams in the area. A natural storm water collection area was observed in this area that
entered the small stream, samples indicated that the storm water was also elevated; approximately 40 ppm. The
collection area was bermed to prevent elevated fluoride from flowing into the very small tributary reporting to
Grassy Creek. A sump pump was placed into the area and continues to pump to the wastewater treatment plant.
In an attempt to locate possible seepage from various areas of the plant that contain elevated fluoride
water, plant personnel added liquid dye to each containment area to verify that containments are still functioning
properly. To date two areas that contain elevated fluoride water on a daily basis were dyed, no evidence of the
dye seeping out of the areas has been observed. Today another containment area will be dyed, followed by two
additional areas. The plant will be shutdown over the weekend to further investigate possible sources of the
elevated fluoride.
Samples in the storm water area as well as samples in Grassy Creek will continue to be monitored. The
integrity of the water in Grassy Creek has not been affected, fluoride levels range between 0.3 to 0.4 ppm, typical
of naturally occurring streams in the area.
Sampling and monitoring will continue until a source is identified. At that point, modifications will be
immediately implemented to eliminate any possible sources. We are aggressively seeking the source and will
utilize any resources required to alleviate the issue as soon as possible.
Sincerely,
Denny Bue nan
Safety/Health&Environmental Affairs Supervisor
Unimin Crystal Plant

ANNUAL REFRESHER TRAINING RECORD/CERTIFICATE
nn r ,
Miner's Full Name (Print) _iiwla
Mine or Contractor Name Unimi - rC Stt'a- ED#31112012
I
Subject Subject Date Competent Location Miner's
30 CFR Part 46.8 Length Person (Name&Address if Initials
Institution)
Instruction on changes at the
mine that could adversely
affect the miner's health or
safety
Health and safety subjects
relevant to mining operations
at the mine
i
Ci" S 4- 1
ce-
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23
Pie z 4
False certification is punishable under section 110(a)and(t)of the Federal Mine Safety and Health Act
I certify that the above training has b completed
(Signature of person responsible 116—r 1fealth and safety�rai ing) (D te)

W A rFRQ Michael F..Easley,Governor
G William G.Ross Jr.,Secretary
r North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources
CO
pColeen H.Sullins,Director
Division of Water Quality
November 25, 2008
623
M Rick Singleton
Ur�imn `Crystal P
136 Crysfal Drive lan;.
Spruce Pine, NC 28777- —
r
SUBJECT: Wastewater/Groundwater Laboratory Certification Renewal
Dear Mr. Singleton:
The Department of Environment and Natural Resources, in accordance with the provisions of NC GS 143-215-
.3 (a) (10), .15 NCAC 2H .0800, is pleased to renew certification for, your laboratory to perform specified
environmental analyses required by EMC monitoring and reporting regulations 15 NCAC 2B .0500, 2H .0900 and
21_ .0100, .0200, .0300, and 2N .0100 through .0800.
Enclosed for your use is a certificate describing the requirements and limits of your certification. Please review
this certificate to insure that your laboratory is certified-for all parameters required to properly meet your
certification needs.
Please contact us at 919-733-3908 if you have questions or need additional information.
Sincerely,
Pat Donnelly
Certification Branch Manager
Laboratory S�ctiotl =°
Enclosure
FID nD
cc: Jason Smith
Gary Francies r
Asheville Regional Office DEC 3 020078
WATER QUALITY SECTION
ASHEVILLE REGIONAL OFFICE
i
No�rthCarolina
Natural!!,
Laboratory Section 1623 Mail Service Center;Raleigh,NC 27699-1623 Phone[phone]
Location: 4405-Reedy Creek Road;Raleigh,NC 27607 FAX [phone]
Internet: www.dwglab.org/Customer Service 1-877-623-6748
An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer—50%Recycled/10%Post Consumer Paper

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF THE
ENVIRONMENT AND NATURAL RESOURCES
DIVISION OF WATER QUALITY
LABORATORY CERTIFICATION PROGRAM
In accordance with the provisions of N.C.G.S. 143-215.3(a)(1), 143-215.3(a)(10)and NCAC 2H.0800:
x
Pn b k C
x
UNIMIN - CRYSTAL PLANT
Is hereby certified to perform environmental analysis as listed on Attachment I and report monitoring data to DWQ for
compliance with NPDES effluent,surface water, groundwater, and pretreatment regulations.
By reference 15A NCAC 2H.0800 is made a part of this certificate,
This certificate does not guarantee validity of data generated,but indicates the methodology, equipment, quality control procedures,
records,and proficiency of the laboratory have been examined and found to be acceptable.
This certificate shall be valid until December 31, 2009
Certificate No. : 623
Pat Donnelly

i
I
Attachment
North Carolina Wastewater/Groundwater Laboratory Certification
Certified Parameters Listing
Lab Name: Unimin-Crystal Plant Certificate Number: 623
Address: 136 Crystal Drive Effective Date: 01/01/2009
Spruce Pine, NC 28777- Expiration Date: 12/31/2009
Date of Last Amendment:
The above named laboratory,having duly met the requirements of 15A NCAC 2H.0800,is hereby certified for the measurement of the parameters listed below.
CERTIFIED PARAMETERS
I' ORGANICS
FLUORIDE
Std Method 4500 F C
p'H
j Std Method 4500 H B
RESIDUE SETTLEABLE
'Std Method 2540F
RESIDUE SUSPENDED
Std Method 2540D
TURBIDITY
Std Method 2130B
I
I
i
This certification requires maintance of an acceptable quality assurance program,use of approved methodology,and satisfactory.performance on evaluation samples. Laborator
subiect to civil penalties and/or decertification for infractions as set forth in 15A NCAC 211.0807.

I �OF WATF9Q Michael F.Easley,Governor
0 William G.Ross Jr.,Secretary
r North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources
0 Y Coleen H.Sullins,Director
Division of Water Quality
August 25, 2008
623
Mr. Rick Singleton
U;_ni_In ih--;.0 sfaFPl4A
-P.-O. Box 588
Spruce Pine, NC 28777
-- - ----SUBJEGT--North-.Carolina-Wastewater/Groundwater Laboratory Certification (NC-WW/GW-LC). --
Maintenance Inspection
Dear Mr. Singleton:
Enclosed is a report for the inspection performed on July 30, 2008 by Mr. Jason M.
Smith and myself. No findings are cited in this report, a response is not required. We
appreciate the fine job you and your staff are doing. As a certification requirement, your
laboratory must continue to carry out the requirements set forth in 15A NCAC 2H .0800.
Copies of the checklists completed during the inspection may be requested from this
office. Thank you for your cooperation during the inspection. If you wish to obtain an electronic
copy of this report by email, or if you have questions or need additional information please
contact me at 828-296-4677.
C
Sin CL7- (�/ ✓//1t,(gJ��t1,IZ F :
f 5 �
Gary Francies �-
Unit Supervisor
iF
Laboratory Section-� ,
AUG 2 8 2008
CC: Asheville Regional OfficeEi WATER QUALITY SECTION
ASI IEVILLE REGIONAL OFFICE
Jason M. Smith
''':._...__ ls_..._........a...M ..�r..,... ._.�No-�thCarolina ;r
North Carolina Division of Water Quality 1623 Mail Service Center Raleigh,NC 27699-1623 Phone[phone] Customer Service
Internet: www.dwqlab.org Location:4405 Reedy Creek Rd Raleigh,NC 27607 Fax [phone]
An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer—50%Recycledl10%Post Consumer Paper

On-Site Inspection Report
LABORATORY NAME: Unimin- Crystal Plant
NPDES PERMIT#: NCO084620
ADDRESS: 136 Crystal Drive
Spruce Pine, NC 28777
CERTIFICATE#: 623
DATE.OF INSPECTION: July 30, 2008
TYPE OF INSPECTION: Industrial Maintenance
AUDITORS: Jason Smith, Gary Francies
LOCAL PERSONS'CONTACTED: Rick Singleton, Denny Buchanan
I. INTRODUCTION:
This laboratory was inspected to verify its compliance with the requirements of 15A NCAC 2H .0800 for
the analysis of environmental samples.
II. GENERAL COMMENTS:
jThe staff is congratulated for doing a good job of maintaining the laboratory program. The primary
purpose of this inspection was to verify that the facility is maintaining all the proper equipment required
for certification. No samples have been analyzed for reporting purposes since the last inspection.
Process control samples are analyzed for all certified parameters. The laboratory is spacious and well
equipped. All equipment is well maintained.
III. FINDINGS, REQUIREMENTS, COMMENTS AND RECOMMENDATIONS:
Recommendation: Staff indicated that the facility should begin discharging in the near future. A more
thorough laboratory inspection will be scheduled once reported data has been generated to review.
Comment: Denny Buchanan attended the inspection of the Unimin Quartz Feldspar Operations facility in
order to see the inspection process and prepare to analyze samples.
IV. PAPER TRAIL INVESTIGATION:
No paper trail performed.
V.' CONCLUSIONS:
No findings were found during the inspection. The inspector would like to thank the staff for their
assistance and cooperation. No response is required.
I
Report prepared by: Jason M. Smith Date: August 01, 2008
Report reviewed by: Jeffrey R.Adams Date:August 07, 2008
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imin _ NOV 2 0 2006
I 3t
1 WATER QUALITY SECTION
Crystal Plant S ASHEVILLE REGIONAL OFFICE
P.O. Box 588
136 Crystal Drive
Spruce Pine,NC 28777
Tel: [phone]) -
Fax: [phone])
November 17,2006
Mr. Keith Haynes
NCDENR-DWQ
2090 US Highway 70
Swannanoa,NC 28778
Dear Mr. Haynes:
On Thursday morning,November 16',the_Crystal Plant was affected by an inch of
rainfall as well as an inch of rainfall the previous day. At approximately 9:00 am a break
in the Crystal Plant's effluent line to The Feldspar Corporation was discovered. The
effluent was immediately diverted to the Crystal Plant's emergency pond. Plant
maintenance then began repairs to the broken line. It was determined that saturated soil
underneath a concrete access box gave way and the weight of the box broke a short
section of the 6 inch PVC line as the embankment near the box collapsed.
It was determined that the line broke at approximately 5:13 am corresponding to a
drop in the flow rate at The Feldspar Corporation's discharge point. Based on The Crystal
Plant's average flow rate it is estimated that possibly 30,000 gallons of treated effluent,
which met all NPDES requirements,was discharged to a tributary of Grassy Creek.
Normal grab samples taken at 7:20 am showed the following results;pH was 7.46,
settleable solids were<0.1 ml\l, and turbidity was 1.84 NTU. The 24 hour composite
sample of Crystal Plant effluent showed a fluoride value of 11.9 mg\l and a total fluoride
value of 19.72 lbs per day. The 24 hour pH chart recorder shows that the pH value of the
effluent during this event held between 7.2 and 7.6.
At 11:30 am the broken line was repaired and effluent flow to The Feldspar
Corporation was restored. The concrete access box was removed and the embankment is
being restored and will be re-vegetated. This should prevent any re-occurrence of this
nature
As per your telephone conversation with Jeff Ferguson yesterday,per your request
please find enclosed Sanitary Sewer Overflow Reporting Form with details of the treated
effluent bypass. If you have any questions or require additional information please
contact me at 828-765-1114 ext. 21.

Sincerely,
Denny Buchanan
Environmental Affairs Supervisor
Xc: K.E. Kuchta
J. Ferguson
M.T. Vencill

. .
VIA
Form CS-SSO
cy e6ti2o Wyst anitory Sewer Overflow Reporting Form
PART I
This form shall be submitted to the. hi6jE(Dffi6dq withip five' daysf'o'f the first knowledge of
the sanitary sewer overflow(S ITASHEVILLE REGIONAL OFFIC
Permit Number:
Facility: Incident#
Owner: Region:
City: County:
Source nfGSO(check applicable) | | Sanitary Sewer �l Pump Station
SPECIFIC location of the SSO(be consistent in description from past reports or documentation-i.e. Pump Station 6,
Manhole etVVesto||&Bragg Street,etr.): '
Latitude(degrees/minute/seoond): 3 s-° ^ ^ Lonomudo(deoreeohninute/aouond)
Incident Started[u: `` Time: Incident End T\me:���I--_—_--
(mm'ud-yyyy) hh:mm&Pm (mm'uu-yyyv) hh:mm(�Rpm
Estimated volume of the aaO: gallons Estimated Duration(Round to nearest hou,)---�c�z�----'
Deocribehmwthevo|umowaadete,mioed:
Weather conditions
Did GGO reach surface waters? KJYea[]NoF—IUnknown Volume reaching surface waters(go||ona): ,.7" °e"
Surface water name:
Did the GaO result ino fish kill? []YeagNoElUnknown |f Yes,what io the estimated number of fish N||ed?------------
SPECIFIC oouae<u>n[the 8SO:
Severe Natural Conditi �� El�� Grease �� Roots
[�
�� Inflow and|nfi|trad [�on �� Pump Station El�� Power outage
[� �� [�
�� Vandalism �� Dohriain|ino Other(Please explain in Part U)
Immediate 24'hour verbal notification reported to:
F71 ��
�- 1 DYVO �—� EmargencyMgnd. Dato(mn+dd'yyyy): 111161ob Time(hh:mmAM/PM): ~~��°f3-�/�
If an SSO is ongoing, please notify Regional Office on a daily basis until SSO can be stopped.
Per G.S. 143-215.1 C(b),the responsible party of a discharge of 1,000 gallons or more of untreated wastewater to surface
waters shall issue a press release within 48-hours of first knowledge to all print and electronic news media providing general
coverage in the county where the discharge occurred.When 15,000 gallons or more of untreated wastewater enters surface
waters, a public notice shall be published within 10 days and proof of publication shall be provided to the Division within 30 days.
Refer to the referenced statute for further detail.
The Director. Division of Water Quality, may take enforcement action for SSOs that are required to be reported to Division unless it
is demonstrated that:
1)the discharge was caused by severe natural conditions and there were no feasible alternatives to the discharge;or
2)the discharge was exceptional,unintentional,temporary and caused by factors beyond the reasonable control of the Permittee
and/or owner, and the discharge could not have been prevented by the exercise of reasonable control.
Part 11 must be completed to provide a justification claim for either of the above situations.This information will be the basis
for the determination of any enforcement action.Therefore,it is important to be as complete as possible.
WHETHER OR NOT PART 11 IS COMPLETED,A SIGNATURE 13 REQUIRED AT THE END OF THIS FORM.
CG'83OForm October S.2ooS Page 1

c wAr���G
Form CS-SSO
p' Collection System Sanitary Sewer Overflow Reporting Form
PART I I
ANSWER THE FOLLOWING QUESTIONS FOR EACH RELATED CAUSE CHECKED IN PART I OF THIS FORM
AND INCLUDE THE APPROPRIATE DOCUMENTATION AS REQUIRED OR DESIRED
COMPLETE ONLY THOSE SECTIONS PERTAINING TO THE CAUSE OF THE SSO AS CHECKED IN PART I
In the check boxes below,NA=Not Applicable and NE=Not Evaluated
A HARDCOPY OF THIS FORM SHOULD BE SUBMITTED TO THE APPROPRIATE DWQ REGIONAL OFFICE
UNLESS IT HAS BEEN SUBMITTED ELECTRONICALLY THROUGH THE ONLINE REPORTING SYSTEM
Severe Natural Condition (hurricane, tomado, etc.)
Describe the"severe natural/condition" in detail.
r�ii n� �n.-7`� p✓r�'^�. b c/� ��71 D/'i`..�/ '7� �e e�v�..iT.
How much advance warning did you have and what actions were taken in preparation for the event?
i✓/R s✓o,er���- PcfP.a-�.-a-�o�✓
Comments:
J7ve ` !'t1���/
Grease (Documentation such as cleaning, inspections, enforcement "� `h'2�F'^'"` '"`T°'� er���►
actions, past overflow reports, educational material and distribution date,
etc. should be available upon request.)
When was the last time this specific line(or wet well)was cleaned?
Do you have an enforceable grease ordinance that requires new or retrofit of grease traps/interceptors? ❑Yes❑No EINA❑NE
Have there been recent inspections and/or enforcement actions taken on nearby restaurants or other ❑Yes[J No 0NA❑NE
nonresidential grease contributors?
Explain.
Have there been other SSOs or blockages in this area that were also caused by grease? ❑Yes®No®NA LINE
When?
If yes, describe them:
Have cleaning and inspections ever been increased at this location? ❑Yes❑ No®NA❑NE
Explain.
CS-SSO Form October 9,2003 Page 2

r'
Have educational materials about grease been distributed in the past? ❑Yes❑ No 0 NA❑NE
When?
and to whom?
Explain?
If the SSO occurred at a pump station,when was the wet well and pumps last checked for grease
accumulation?
Were the floats clean? ❑Yes❑ No I NA❑NE
Comments:
Roots r/<►
Do you have an active root control program? ❑Yes❑ No®NA❑NE
Describe
Have cleaning and inspections ever been increased at this location because of roots? ❑Yes0 No EINA ONE
Explain:
What corrective actions have been accomplished at the SSO location(and surrounding system if
associated with the SSO)?
What corrective actions are planned at the SSO location to reduce root intrusion?
Has the line been smoke tested or videoed within the past year? ❑Yes❑ No❑NA❑NE
If Yes,when?
Comments:
Inflow and Infiltration 1,1p
Are you under an SOC(Special Order by Consent)or do you have a schedule in any permit that 11Yes0 No❑NA ONE
addresses I/I?
CS-SSO Form October 9,2003 Page 3

Explain if Yes:
What corrective actions have been taken to reduce or eliminate I&I related overflows at this spill location
within the last year?
Has there been any flow studies to determine III problems in the collection system at the SSO location? ❑Yes❑No LINA❑NE
If Yes,when was the study completed and what actions did it recommend?
Has the line been smoke tested or videoed within the past year? []Yes[]No DNA NE
If Yes,when and indicate what actions are necessary and the status of such actions:
Are there 1/1 related projects in your Capital Improvement Plan? Yes❑ No®NA NE
If Yes,explain:
Have there been any grant or loan applications for 1/1 reduction projects? ❑Yes❑No©NA LINE
If Yes,explain:
Do you suspect any major sources of inflow or cross connections with storm sewers? []Yes[]No®NA ONE
If Yes, explain:
Have all lines contacting surface waters in the SSO location and upstream been inspected recently? ❑Yes®No[ANA❑NE
If Yes,explain:
What other corrective actions are planned to prevent future 1/1 related SSOs at this location?
Comments:
Pump Station Equipment Failure (Documentation of testing, records etc.,
shoul be provided upon request.)
What kind of notification/alarm systems are present?
Auto-dialer/telemetry(one-way communication) DYes
CS-SSO Form October 9,2003 Page 4

Audible ❑Yes
Visual ❑Yes
SCADA(two-way communication) ❑Yes
Emergency Contact Signage ❑Yes
Other ❑Yes
Describe the equipment that failed?
What kind of situations trigger an alarm condition at this station(i.e.pump failure,power failure,high
water. etc.)? ��-}}
Were notification/alarm systems operable? 11YesE-]No FAIN AEINE
If no,explain:
If a pump failed,when was the last maintenance and/or inspection performed?
What specifically was checked/maintained?
If a valve failed,when was it last exercised?
Were all pumps set to alternate? ❑Yes®No®NA❑NE
Did any pump show above normal run times prior to and during the SSO event? ❑Yes0 No®NA DNE
Were adequate spare parts on hand to fix the equipment(switch,fuse,valve,seal, etc.)? ❑Yes❑ No®NA❑NE
Was a spare or portable pump immediately available? ❑Yes❑ No®NA❑NE
If a float problem,when were the floats last tested?How?
If an auto-dialer or SCADA,when was the system last tested?How?
Comments:
CS-SSO Form October 9,2003 Page 5

Power outage (Documentation of testing, records, etc., should be
provided of altemative power source upon request.)
What is your alternate power or pumping source?
• Generator
Did it function properly? ❑Yes❑No 14NA❑NE
Describe?
When was the alternate power or pumping source last tested under load?
If caused by a weather event,how much advance warning did you have and what actions were taken to
prepare for the event?
Comments:
Vandalism
Provide police report number:
Was the site secured? ❑Yes❑ No NA❑NE
If Vac hrnei?
Padlocked Control Panel
Have there been previous problems with vandalism at the SSO location? ❑Yes❑NoPJNA❑NE
If Yes, explain:
What security measures have been put in place to prevent similar occurrences in the future? ❑Yes❑ No®NA❑NE
Comments:
Debris in line (Rocks, sticks, rags and other items not allowed in the
collection system, etc.)
What type of debris has been found in the line?
How could it have gotten there?
Are manholes in the area secure and intact? Ye No WNA NE
CS-SSO Form October 9,2003 Page 6

When was the area last checked/cleaned?
Have cleaning and inspections ever been increased at this location due to previous problems with debris? ❑Yesu No RNA ONE
Explain:
Are appropriate educational materials being developed and distributed to prevent future similar ❑YesD No NA❑NE
occurrences?
Comments:
Other(Pictures and a police report should be available upon request.)
Describe: /, / q / f
SJfQK e4 'F'-'QL�� 7-fe.—Y� f7 +-� p�e 7"c z.-.�,-..�..+e_� - :/.- e er,,Ac..,.y �a,I.vrT-��ft�..�7r�� :.✓S-Ae-rG e.
Were adequate equipment and resources available to fix the problem? WEB Yes[] No❑NA ON E
c
If Yes, explain:
;-&kzvz .-:/o4/2 / j�.v m.G(�Iz�ft �tfl'c.YS �t�+lKl.�+r-.%I n.�rji..-1 p.,i-.{ Te
rr i o'L
If the problem could not be immediately repaired,what actions were taken to lessen the impact of the
SSO? /
Comments:
For DWQ Use Only:
DWQ Requested an Additional Written Report: 11Yeso No EINA ONE
If Yes,What Additional Information is Needed:
Comments:
CS-SSO Form October 9,2003 Page 7

As a representative for the responsible party, I certify that the information contained in this report is true and accurate
to the best of my knowledge.
Person submitting claim: Date:
Signature: Title: C -r ?A I ?),arrf lqanace�
Telephone Number:
Any additional information desired to be submitted should be sent to the appropriate Division Regional Office within five days of first
knowledge of the SSO with reference to the incident number(the incident number is only generated when electronic entry of this form
is completed,if used).
CS-SSO Form October 9,2003 Page 8

United States Environmental Protection Agency Form Approved.
EPA Washington,D.C.20460
OMB No.2040-0057
Water Compliance Inspection Report Approval expires 8-31-98
Section A: National Data System Coding(i.e., PCS)
Transaction Code NPDES yr/mo/day Inspection Type Inspector Fac Type
1 INI 2 1 51 3 dCO`1;81G2i^ - 11 12 ^6 '2/ r 17 18 c 1 19 g 20
Remarks
211 I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I6
Inspection Work Days Facility Self-Monitoring Evaluation Rating 131 QA --------------------------Reserved---------------------
67I 169 701 I 711 I 72I1 N II 73I I 174 751 I I I I I I 180
Section B: Facility Data W
Name and Location of Facility Inspected(For Industrial Users discharging to POTW,also include Entry Time/Date Permit Effective Date
POTW name and NPDES permit Number)
10:00 AM 06/12/15 06/11/01
Crystal Operation
300 Crvstal Dr Exit Time/Date Permit Expiration Date
Spruce Pine NC 28777 10.50 AM 06/12/15 11/02/28
Name(s)of Onsite Representative(s)/Titles(s)/Phone and Fax Number(s) Other Facility Data
Name,Address of Responsible Official/Title/Phone and Fax Number
Contacted
Karl Kuchta,P0 Box 588 Spruce Pine NC 28777//828-765-4283/
Yes
Section C: Areas Evaluated During Inspection(Check only those areas evaluated)
Facility Site Review
Section D: Summary of Finding/Comments Attach additional sheets of narrative and checklists as necessary)
(See attachment summary)
Name(s)and Signature(s)of Inspector(s) Agency/Office/Phone and Fax Numbers Date
Larry Frost ARC, 'WQ//828-296-4500 Ext.4658/
Signature of Management Q A Reviewer Agency/Office/Phone and Fax Numbers Date
EPA Form 3560-3(Rev 9-94)Previous editions are obsolete.
Page# 1

Mr. Mike Parker
August 7, 2002
Page 2
Crystal Facility personnel replaced a four-foot section of flanged pipe,glued and
supplemented with clamps at both ends. This should assure minimal possibilities of future
failures at this location. If you have any questions or comments regarding this matter, please do
not hesitate to contact me at [phone] ext. 13.
Sincerely,
Jeffrey S. Ferguson
Environmental Engineer
UNIMIN CORPORATION
c: Mike Jussilla;Karl Kuchta;Bruce Perkins;Bill Shalter,C.F.Stover

uniminEnvironmental Affairs Department
Unimin Corporation
136 Crystal Drive•Spruce Pine,NC 28777
(PHONE)828/766-6081 •(FAQ 828/765-4755
April 23, 2004
Ms.Jacquelyn Nowell
NCDENR-Division of Water Quality (�
Point Source Branch D C
E � V E D
1617 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, North Carolina 27699-1617 APR 2 8 2004
Subject: No Initiation of Direct Discharge
Unimin Corporation—Crystal Facility WATER QUALITY SECTION
ASHEVILLE REGIONAL OFFICE
Spruce Pine,North Carolina,Mitchell County
NPDES Permit No. NCO084620
Dear Ms. Nowell:
I am submitting this letter as a courtesy notification that Unimin Corporation's
Crystal Facility (NPDES Permit No. NCO084620) has renegotiated an agreement with The
Feldspar Corporation to continue to allow all waste effluent to report to TFC's waste
treatment facility. Please be advised that Unimin's Crystal Facility's lab has been certified by
the Lab Certification Division and will continue to remain certified. If in the future Unimin
decides to pursue initiating direct discharge of effluent to the North Toe River,we will
submit another courtesy notification to your office and follow the requirements outlined in
the NPDES permit. If you have any questions or comments regarding this matter,please
do not hesitate to contact me at [phone] ext. 13.
Sincerely,
Jeffrey S. Ferguson,P. E.
Environmental Engineer
UNIMIN CORPORATION
c: EA Files,Karl Kuchta,Bruce Perkins,Mike Vencill

0 0
UniminEnvironmental Affairs Department
Unimin Corporation
136 Crystal Drive•Spruce Pine,NC 28777
(PHONE)828/766-6081•(FAX)828/765-4755
f(� July 17,2003
2003 1
Mr. Mike Parker
Division of Water Quality � Re�/0,if1 " 1j
59 Woodfin Place ECF
Asheville,North Carolina 28801
Subject: Initiate Direct Discharge
Unimin Corporation —Crystal Facility
Spruce Pine, North Carolina, Mitchell County
/V LA
Dear Mr.Parker:
I am submitting this letter as a courtesy notification that Unimin Corporation's Crystal
Facility (NPDES Permit No. NC0084620) currently plans to initiate direct discharge of effluent
to the North Toe River on August 1, 2003. The Crystal Facility's lab has been certified by the
Lab Certification Division and is prepared to proceed with direct discharge bypassing The
Feldspar Corporation's treatment facility. ORC designation forms have been submitted to
NCDENR and we feel that we have satisfied all requirements prior to initiating direct discharge.
In addition,we understand that NCDENR has agreed that the additional 117 gpm pump
required to install prior to direct discharge per the NPDES Permit will not be needed. If you
have any questions or comments regarding this matter, please do not hesitate to contact me at
[phone] ext. 13.
Sincerely,
A�
Jeffrey S. Ferguson
Environmental Engineer
UNIMIN CORPORATION
c: EA Files;Mike Jussila;Bruce Perkins;C. F.Stover

Etmental Affairs Department
%PSI III
Unimin Corporation
136 Crystal Drive 4 Spruce Pine,NC 28777
(PHONE)828/766-6081 a(FAX)828/765-4755
April 17, 2003
CERTIFIED MAIL
RETURN RECEIPT REQUESTED 2 3 2003
Ms.Jackie Nowell
Division of Water Quality
1617 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, North Carolina 27699-1617
Subject: Unimin Corporation—Crystal Facility bp
Spruce Pine,-North Carolina Mitchell County
MAY
2003
0-
Dear Ms. Nowell:
As per our phone conversation today, please note the following request. Unimin
Corporation - Crystal Facility's NPDES Permit No. NC0084620 Section C7 states: "Additionally,
Unimin Corporation must provide and install and additional 117 GPM effluent pump prior to
initiating discharge to the Toe River." Unimin Corporation is currently planning to discharge
directly to the Toe River in the near future and would like to request that this condition be
removed for the following reasons.
The requirement to install the additional 117 GPM effluent pump was requested by Mr. Roy
Riddle of Unimin Corporation in a May 12, 1995 draft permit response to Mr. David Goodrich
of NCDWQ. At that time, in the event of a clarifier failure, the process water was pumped into
holding tanks. Since that time, an emergency pond has been constructed that can contain the
entire contents of the clarifier (May 22, 1998 ATC). The emergency pond is gravity fed with no
need for pumping. In addition, discharging to the North Toe River does not require pumping
due to an elevation change of approximately 125 feet.
Unimin Corporation would like to be in the position to discharge to the North Toe River by
August 1, 2003. Therefore,we hope that you will expedite this request. If a response is not
received by August 1, 2003 Unimin will assume this request has been approved and will continue
with plans to discharge directly to the North Toe River.

Ms.Jackie Nowell
April 17, 2003
Page 2
Thank you very much for your help with this matter. If you have any questions or
comments regarding this matter, please do not hesitate to contact me at [phone] ext. 13.
Sincerely,
9
Jeffrey S. Perguson
Environmental Engineer
UNIMIN CORPORATION
c: Mike Jussila;Bruce Perkins;Bill Shalter,C. F. Stover

UnIMIR
Environmental Affairs Department
Unimin Corporation
136 Crystal Drive•Spruce Pine,NC 28777
(PHONE)828/766-6081•(FAQ 828/765-4755
sft 7AUG ,P2002
22002 jl
CERTIFIED MAIL t� i
RETURN RECEIPT REQUESTED !: �,f f ,
= lSH VfI, �' �CLTiOi�
Mr. Mike Parker " =�
Division of Water Quality
59 Woodfin Place
Asheville,North Carolina 28801
Subject: Unin-in Corporation—Crystal Facility M515.111L?-
Spruce Pine, North Carolina,Mitchell County
Dear Mr. Parker:
As per our phone conversation today, please note that an accidental discharge of treated
effluent occurred into the North Toe River at approximately 8 am this morning. As you are
aware, the Crystal Facility's effluent reports to The Feldspar Corporation's waste treatment
facility prior to final discharge into the North Toe River. At approximately 8 am,an employee
of The Feldspar Corporation opened a 6-inch valve to obtain a water sample. Upon closing the
valve, a pressure transient was created in the line which caused a glued joint to loosen in
Crystal's effluent line. This allowed effluent to spray from the loose end joint. The employee
immediately called Tom Freeman who immediately contacted Crystal Plant personnel. Crystal
Plant immediately directed waste plant effluent to emergency storage tanks. The backup
effluent line was brought into service and flow restored to The Feldspar Corporation.
Upon discussions with both facilities' personnel, estimated discharge through the separated
line occurred no more than approximately five minutes and only a portion of the effluent line
discharged onto the ground. Bruce Perkins, ORC for the Crystal Facility immediately took
samples within fifteen minutes of the discharge. The results of the samples are as follows:
pH—7.41
Turbidity-2.23 NTU
Fl—11.8 mg/1
Flow —169 gpm
As you will note, the results of the samples are well in compliance with our effluent
limitations. I estimate that less than 500 gallons of treated effluent bypassed The Feldspar
Corporation's waste treatment facility. As you are aware, the Crystal Facility's current NPDES
permit allows for direct discharge of this same quality effluent directly to the river upon DWQ
notification.

tl '
NPDES yr/mo/day Inspection Type 1
3I NCO084620 I11 12I 06/12/15 117 18ICI
Section D: Summary of Finding/Comments(Attach additional sheets of narrative and checklists as necessary)
Te pupose of this visit was to look at the new effluent pumps and associated piping to the discharge point in
the North Toe River. The construction is not yet complete, but all looks good.
Page# 2

COMPLETE THIS ShCTION ON DELIVERY
iENI---�: COMPLETE THIS SECTION
■ 6aiplete items 1,2,and 3.Also complete A.
item 4 if Restricted Delivery is desired. ❑ nt
■ Print your name and address on the reverse X Addy see
so that we can return the card to you. B. Receive ri ed N e C. of 941iver
■ Attach this card to the back of themailpiece—. —
Q� North Carolina Dep ent of iss different from item 1 Yes
Mr.MA Environment and Natural Resources livery address below: N
Division of Water Quality
Water Quality Regional Operations Section
NCDENR 2090 U.S.Highway 70,Swannanoa,NC 28778
Andrew G.Bradley
Sr.Vice President Environmental Affairs 3. Se ice Type
Unimin Corporation-Crystal Facility Certified Mail® ❑Priority Mail Express-
258 Elm Street Registered Return Receipt for Merchandise
New Canaan, CT 06840 ❑Insured Mail Collect on Delivery
4. Restricted Delivery?(Extra Fee) El Yes
7014 0510 0000 4466 8543
.; l naOV ao I s-dV_ �O
.S Form 3811.July 2b13 1 11 1 11 l domestic Return Receipt

UNITED STATES POSTAL SERVICE F's- s M '
ostage Id
SPS
Permit No.G-10
• Sender: Please print your name;address, and ZIP+ \\~his bob,• o�
OCR C�
- Q C
JANETCANTWELL
NCDENR-DWR-WQRO
/, 2090 U.S.HIGHWAY 70 J�
SWANNANOA NC 28778 O r/