NC0000175_ARO WQROS Complete File_20211105

Facility name: Unimin Corporation
Permits: WWTP locations: Plant Mgrs/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
NC0000175 Quartz / Feldspar Doug Myers 828-765-4283 x 1005
Mitchell Co. Steve Wilson, 828-766-8294 cell
ORC & Env Aff Supv 766-0020 office
Brian McNeil
NC0085839 Red Hill Quartz Mike Jussilla 828-688-9213 x 2402
Mitchell Co.
Facility information
NPDES permit #: NC0000175 Mitchell County
Facility name: Unimin Corporation — Quartz / Feldspar
Nature of business: Mining, milling and separation of Alaskite ore to
produce feldspar, mica and. quartz sand.
CONFIDENTIAL processes & technology
SIC code: 1499 Misc Nonmetallic Minerals
WWTP class: PC - II
WWTP type: 3.6 MGD mining and material processing plant
consisting of the following outfalls:
001 wastewater;
002 mine dewatering &/or recycle overflow;
stormwater discharges: HAW01, HAW03, &
SC5-SC8
ecf (J G

The WWTP components consist of:
dewatering cyclones;
screw classifer;
vacuum filters;
chemical feed systems for the addition of alum, lime [calcium
hydroxide - Ca(OH)2] , acrylamide (Drewfloc 2270 @) anionic
polymer and cationic polymer for flocculation;
(two flocculation/reactor tanks with mixers - out of service);
Jadar solids removal system;
two stabilization basins;
chemical feed systems for pH adjustment with the addition of sulfuric
acid (H2SO4) & sodium bicarbonate (Na2 CO3);
pH analyzer;
1 acre emergency overflow pond,
mix/reactor tanks,
50 ft and 70 ft diameter circular thickeners (fluoride & non-fluoride);
Andco Environmental Processes, Inc. @ multi-media filters;
Eimco Process Equipment Company @ disc filters;
Dorr Oliver horizontal pan filters with vacuum and filtrate pumps; and
continuous flow recorder and totalizer.
Annual Average Flow: MGD (3 year average flow: 2007-2010)
The plant is currently limiting flow to < 2,500
gpm daily average.
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
Engineer: Jeffrey S. Ferguson, P.E.
Environmental Engineer (covers several states)
@ 136 Crystal Drive; Spruce Pine; NC 28777
Facility location: 7638 South 226 Hwy (next to KT Feldspar)
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 (cut"-ta) — Regional General Manager
828-765-4283 x 1005 Doug Myers — Plant Manager
828-766-0020 Steve Wilson, Environmental Affairs Supervisor
828-766-8294 cell " - cell
828- Brian McNeil
828-765-1114 x 13 Jeff Ferguson. P.E. @ Crystal Op - Engineer
828-765-4755 fax "
Operator information
WWTP ORC: Stephen A. Wilson — Cert. # 986002 — PC - II
WWTP back-up ORCs: Darren W. Mann — Cert. # 28626 — PC - II
Ricky L. Singleton — Cert. # 987053 — PC — II
Permit information
Date issued: 3-1-2008
Correction: 10-16-2008 (permitted outfalls include:
001 wastewater; 002 mine dewatering &/or
recycle overflow; & stormwater discharges
@ HAW01, HAW03, & SC5-SC8
Modification: 9-30-2010 (removed qtrly. mon. req. for Lindane)
Expiration date: 2-28-2011
Appl rcvd: 9-1-2010
Currently under review: Jackie Nowell
2010 Violations: CPAs — none
NOVs — MV — Quarterly Oil & Grease — Nov. 2010
Toxicity violation — August 2010
Toxicity violation — July 2010
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

1
Drainage area sq mi: 133
Instream Waste Conc.: 11%
Chronic Toxicity conc.: 11% (Ceriodaphnia dubia - pass/fail)
Quarterly — Jan / April / July / October
Average stream flow: 270 cfs
Summer 7Q10 cfs: 45
Winter 7Q10 cfs: 55
30Q2 cfs:
Other information
Directions: Hwy 70 in Swannanoa to 1-40 East to Hwy 70 to
Hwys 221 & 226 in Marion. Proceed to Spruce
Pine via US Hwy 226. Go (past Walmart) to the
intersections of Hwys 226 and Hwy 19 E. Turn
left & travel toward Burnsville. At the third stop
light, turn right onto Hwy 226 (toward
Bakersville). Travel 2.6 miles on Hwy 226. Turn
left just past KT Feldspar at the Unimin Quartz /
Feldspar sign.
Notes: Take hard hat, safety glasses, ear plugs and
steel-toed shoes/boots.

Central Files: APS SWP
09/29/11
Permit Number NC0000175 Permit Tracking Slip
Program Category Status Project Type
NPDES WW Expired Minor modification
Permit Type Version Permit Classification
Industrial Process& Commercial Wastewater Discharge 3.10 Individual
Primary Reviewer Permit Contact Affiliation
jackie.nowell Carl Horvat
Coastal SW Rule PO Box 588
Spruce Pine NC 28777
Permitted Flow
3600000
Facility
Facility Name Major/Minor Region
Quartz Operation Major Asheville
Location Address County
NC Hwy 226 N Mitchell
Spruce Pine NC 28777 Facility Contact Affiliation
Stephen Andrew Wilson
PO Box 192
Bakersville NC 287050192
Owner
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
09/18/80 12/27/07 02/11/08 03/01/08 02/28/11
Regulated Activities Requested/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

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Facility Information Facility
Rit"NOE€ � 4 ��
Latitude: 35°55'58" Sub-Basin: 04-03-06 °� W ;
Longitude: 82°06' 11" Location F� '.; ,
n
Quad#: Spruce Pine(DIONE)
Stream Class: C-Trout
Receiving Stream: North Toe River Unintin Corp-Quartz Feldspar Facility
Noah County
NC000
Permitted Flow: 3.6 MGD Mitchel]Count

MIPA
HCDEHR
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 perm�trenewal.application
NPDES Permrt�NCOOOO;li75' >�t-
Quartz 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 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 Jackie Nowell
at [phone].
Sincerely,
Dina Sprinkle
Point Source Branc w
NEDcc: CENTRAL FILES t.' 0 I.J1, 11e7R ibnal Qsfftc e/Surface Water Protection `NPDE S Unit ��y' CTION
OFFICE
•\..,r32
'«"'c-`N,si%<"k> `,��:,.::=.as•-:,,..:.ur,ei,:..,,w.:... 1
1617 Mail Service Center,Raleigh,North Carolina 27699-1617
Location:512 N.Salisbury St.Raleigh,North Carolina 27604 One
'7�'r
Phone:[phone]\FAX:[phone]\Customer Service:1-877-623-6748 l�!orthCar®l.i.na
Internet:wwww.ncwraterquality.org
An Equal Opportunity\AffirmativeAciion Employer

K
NCDENR
North Carolina Department.of Environment and Natural Resources
Division of Water Quality
Beverly Eaves Perdue Coleen H. Sullins Dee Freeman
Governor Director Secretary
"• .,yc..Ny.'C �YH q3'YAWnNK.v::.n.nrrt,..,k.-:
September 20,2010 7r _
Mr.Jeffery S. Ferguson P.E. L M9-�--EJJ
EUnimin Corporation 136 Crystal DriveSpruce Pine,NC 28777 OCT - 5 2010
Subject:Permit Modification requei
Unimin Corp.WWTP�, 4�s
NPDES PermitNfy000Q=1 5
Mitchell County t VIlATEH QUALITY SECTION
Dear Mr. Ferguson: �� �Fe1dh r A FiJcV!LLC REGIONAL OFFICE
;r:.,..u'a..y::ry.Fti':r,.'..a4a*v.lz�rn�.. >an:, ......,.,.-.
The'Division of Water Quality(DWQ)has reviewed your request for modification of the sqMct per!n b deletion of ifte
sampling requirements for Lindane from your existing NPDES permit.In the permit issued November 1, 0'd6 supplemental conditions
allowed a review of twelve months of data to determine if reasonable potential to exceed the allowable concentration still existed.
A review of discharge monitoring reports submitted to the DWQ between January 2008 and March 2010 provided the data
used in the updated reasonable potential analysis.Based on this set of sampling results,the analyses indicate there is No Reasonable
potential for the Unimin Corporation to discharge wastewater effluent containing levels of Lindane.At this time your request for
removal of Quarterly monitoring for Lindane is approved.
We are forwarding you the new Part 1,Section A and Special Conditions page,which reflect the deletion of Lindane
Monitoring requirements and Special Conditions for Lindane.You should replace your existing Section A and Special Conditions
pages from your current permit with these three pages.This permit correction 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).
If any parts,measurement frequencies or sampling requirements contained in this permit correction 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
Bob Guerra at telephone number(919)807-6387.
Sincerely, '
Coleen H..Sullins
f cc: I sheVJII--e RW l�OffreelSurFacepWater--,P�rote -tio'�nn, +
PDES File OOOU175 Y" .
Central File
1617 Mail Service Center,Raleigh,North Carolina27699-1617
Location:512 N.Salisbury St.Raleigh,North Carolina 27604 One�1,
Phone:[phone]\FAX:[phone] Customer Service:1-877-623-6748 NOl l.ilCarolina
Internet:www.ncwaterquality.org Naturally ,
�a��`y�� �
A.n Equal Opportunity\Affirmative Action Employer (/ y ``

Permit Number NC0000175
PART I. SECTION A
A. (1). EFFLUENT LIMITATIONS AND MONITORING REQUIREMENTS-FINAL
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:
., EFFLUENT LIMITATIONSF x: re
ito i� men Mon nngRequ' t
Effluent , ` Monthly �' Daily Maxtmurn Measucemen Sample r �Sa�m I�'e�
Charactensfics , ` reQuency Type Location,
Av�eraae -
Flow 3.6 MGD Continuous Recording I or E
Total Fluoride 109.0 lb/day 218.0 lb/day Daily Comeposit E, U, D
Total Suspended 1320.0 lb/day 2640.0 lb/day Daily Composit E, U, D
Solids e
Settleable Solids Daily Grab E
Turbidity2 Daily Grab E, U, D
pH Daily Grab E, U, D
Oil and Grease Monthly Grab E
Chloride Quarterly Composit E
e
Chronic To7xicity5 Quarterly Composit E
e
Notes:
1. Sample locations: E- Effluent, I- Influent, U —Above the facility intake, D - Penland bridge.
Instrearrr samples shall be grab samples and shall be conducted-3/week.
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 11 W January,April, July and October. See
Special Condition A(2).
There shall be no discharge of floating solids or visible foam in other than trace amounts.

Permit Number NC0000175
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 11%.
The permit holder shall perform at a minimum, up arterly 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 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 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.

+ , , Permit Number NC0000175,
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 ortests 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.. ;.
A:­(3). TURBIDITY
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. (4). 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. (5). FLUORIDE 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. (6). PERMIT MODIFICATIONS
This permit shall 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.

i
MCDENR
North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources
Division of Water Quality
Beverly Eaves Perdue Coleen H.Sullins Dee Freeman
Governor Director Secretary
September 20,2010 C9' �f�l ✓J,
Mr.Jeffery S.Ferguson P.E. frc c c�
Unimin Corporation
136 Crystal Drive
Spruce Pine,NC 28777
Subject Permit Modification request
Unimin Corp.WWTP
NPDES Permit NC0000176
Mitchell County
Dear Mr.Ferguson:
The Division of Water Quality(DWQ)has reviewed your request for modification of the subject permit by deletion of the
sampling requirements for Lindane from your existing NPDES permit. In the permit issued November 1,2006,supplemental conditions
allowed a review of twelve months of data to determine if reasonable potential to exceed the allowable concentration still existed,
A review of discharge monitoring reports submitted to the DWQ between January 2008 and March 2010 provided the data
used in the updated reasonable potential analysis.Based on this set of sampling results,the analyses indicate there is No Reasonable
otentiai,for the Unlmin GG . r tiant dlsc a e, tlowa a effluent containing levels of Lindane.At this time Your request fo�uarter1. mon t .dos 0a Inch. it �d
We are forwarding you the new Part 1,Section A and Special Conditions page,INNIR-10066i#fh1!! 1f�3etlon oft inla,—
Monitoring requirements and Special Conditions for Lindane.Y,ou should replace your ellt�g`s tlo�i'`A find,sputa@. Ndltlons
pages from your current,permit with these three pages.This permit correction 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).
If any parts,measurement frequencies or sampling requirements contained In this permit correction 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 150E of the North Carolina General Statutes,and fled 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 lrensferable except after notice,to the Division. The Division may require modification or
revocation and relssuance 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 pemiits required by the Division of Land.Resources,the Coastal Area Management Actor
any other Federal or Local governmental permit that may be required: if you have any questions concerning this permit,please contact
Bob Guerra at telephone number(919)807-6387.
Sincerely,
Coleen H.Sullins
fo cc: Asheville Regional Office/Surface Water Protection
NPDES File/NC0000175
gentral File
1617 Mat Service Center,Ralegh,North Carolina 27699-1617
Location:512 N.Salisbury St.Raleigh,North Carolina 27604 00c,
Phone:91"07.63871 FAX:[phone]\Customer Service:1-877.623.6748 NorthCaroliila
intemcG WWW-fl:waterqualityr•ag a r ff
An Equal opportuniVy or mauve Acwn Ern oyer Ny

Pemit Number NCOOOO 175
PART I, SECTION A
A. (1). EFFLUENT LIMITATIONS AND MONITORING REQUIREMENTS-FINAL
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
ouifall 001. Such discharges shall be limited and monitored by the Permittee as specified
below:
• r
EFFLUEft.LIMITATIONS Mon+fibrlri 1�equfremerits
Efi Uent
: Monthly Daily Maximum Measureme Sam le Sarritile
Gharacter�stics . AV.era e, . � f
reguencY vae o, !
Flow 3.6 MGD Continuous Recording I or E
Total Fluoride 109.0 lb/day 218.0 Ib/day Daily Comeposit E, U, D
Total Suspended 1320.0 lb/day 2640.0 lb/day Daily Comeposit E, U, D
Solids
Settleable Solids Daily Grab E
Turbidity2 Daily Grab E, U, D
pH3 Daily Grab E, U, D
Oil and Grease Monthly Grab E
Chloride4 Quarterly Composit E
e
Chronic Tox1city6 Quarterly Comeposit E
Notes:
1. Sample locations: E-Effluent, I- Influent, U —above the facility intake, D- Penland bridge.
Instream samples shall be grab samples and shall be conducted 3/week.
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 11%: January, April, July and October. See
Special Condition A(2).
There shall be no discharge of floating solids or visible foam in other than trace amounts.
l

`i)ermit Minkcr NCO 000175
.A. (2) CHRONIC TOXICITY PERMIT LIMIT(QRTRLY)
The'effluent discharge shall at no time exhibit observable inhibition of reproduction-or significant
rnortatity to Geriodaphnia dubia at an effluentcancentration of 11°la:
The permit holder shall perform at a m1himu"'m',guarterly monitoring using test procedures
outlined in the"North Carolina.C,eriodaphnla Chronic,Effluent Bloassay Procedure:,"Revised
February 1998, or subsequent versions or"North Carolina Phase.11 Chronic Whole"Effluent'
Toxicity Test Procedure" (Revised-February 1998)-or subsequent versions.The tests•will be
performed during the months,at`Jsnuary,�April, July and 06tober. 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,civarter results In a failure or
ChV below the permit limit;then Multiple=concentration testing shall he performed,atra
minimum, in each of the two foliowring months as described In "North Carolina Phase 11.
Chronlc lrii'hole Effluent ToAdity Test'Pro'cedtire" (Revfsacl=February 1998) or subsequent
versions.
The chronic value for multiple concentration�test6 will be,determined using the geometric mea`h-
of the highest concentration having no;detectable impairment of reproduction or survival and 4he,
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 subseq uerit versions. i
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 1n.whlch tests were performed, using the -
parameter code TGP38 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 bivision 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 Sectionl
no Iater,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 chernicallphysical measurement
and all concentfation/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 fo r disinfection,of the waste stream..

Permit Number NC0006175
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, lermit 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.
A. (3). TURBIDITY
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. (4). SOLIDS DISPOSAL,
Solids removed or resulting from the wastewtater 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. (5). FLUORIDE REOPENER
This permit shall be modified, or revoked and reissued to incorporate new fluoride effluent
limitations in the event that acute or chronic bloassay testing or other studies results in a change
In the North Carolina Water Quality Standard for fluoride.
A. (6). PERMIT MODIFiCATIONS
This permit shall 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.

antwell, Janet
From: [e-mail]
Sent: Wednesday, September 28, 2011 3:40 PM
To: Cantwell, Janet
Subject: Unimin lindane letter
Attachments: Scan_Doc0002.pdf
Mrs. Cantwell--here's the letter--(See attached file: Scan_Doc0002.pdf)
Steve Wilson
Environmental Supervisor
Unimin Quartz Plant
PO Box 588
Spruce Pine, NC 28777
1

�1
Iffy
UN I
p®%° 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 rri 'rL��ESiiRem wal`Requestsfora Corporate—Crystal,
/#Fe1dspa , Red Hill,and Schoolhouse Quartz Facilities
NPDES Permit NosNC0084( 0,NC0000175,N0008583;9,and-NC0000361
Dear Mrs. Sprinkle:
Please.accept this letter as a request for renewal of the following NPDES Permits:
Unimin Corporation—Crystal Facility NPDES Permit No NCO084620
tunin�n;CorporattomQuartz°/Feldspar�Facahty`�NPDE_StNo..I� +�(��0�}�_�-
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 thefCr"ystal,{Red Hill and rScfioolhouse=Qu Facilities andW-`PA7 A7 catlQi
orm_1 dc'TEorin 2 for tla" ` �uattz�^ ld a FFacility. 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.
A'Al
c9�Ya'.,� ti'`~�• � � Ifs
ivi
u... �' ..; NOV — 4
._A• i
3 T t '$;
all 35
Ft
Ca
• �;I� - u t} � WATER C?UALIT`!SECTION
14 AS I V1LLE REGIO1,1AL OFFICE `.
i [ [
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'f r_.a3a5 .r'. �v s s-..lei�:,:[�d•d_•5.<.•:�.,1._�-.:.r.:2;1.:..

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
1
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 Coil 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.

• i
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,
Jeffreys. Ferguson,P. E.
Environmental Engineer
UNIMIN CORPORATION
Enclosures
c: FA Files,Scott Fortner(SQ),Dennis Johnson(R14),Mike Jussila(RI-1),Karl Kuchta(cover letter),Doug
Myers(QU/SQ),Sandra Phillips(XL),Steve Wilson(QU),Mike Vencill(SQ)

Please print or type in the unshaded areas only
(fill-in areas are spaced for elite type,i.e., 1; acters/inch). For Approved. C No. 2040-0086. Approval expires 5-31-92
FORM U,&ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY I. EPA I.D. NUMBER
GENERAL INFORMATION F T,A C
PA D
Consolidated Permits Program
GENERAL (Read the "General_Instructions"before starting.) 1 2 13 _14 is
LABEL ITEMS � p y GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS
Ali hr If a preprinted label has been provided,
I. EPA I.D. NUMBER �j�GaDU®0 affix It in the-designated'space. Review the
� �� -6 information carefully; if any of it is.
C�5/�a� incorrect cross through. it and enter the
III. FACILITY NAME' Q GILA r l"" correct data in the appropriate fill-in area
below.Also, if any of the preprinted data'is.
absent (the area to the left of the label'
V.FACILITY PLEASE PLACE LABEL IN THIS SPACE space lists the information that should'
MAILING LIST appear) please provide it in the proper fill_
in area(+s) below. If the label is complete
and correct you need not complete Items
I, III,V, aria VI(except Vl-B which must be
completed regardless). Complete all items
VI. FACILITY if no label has been proved. Refer to the
LOCATION instructions for detailed item descriptions
and for the legal authorization under which.
this data is.collected.
II.POLLUTANT CHARACTERISTICS
INSTRUCTIONS: Complete A through J to determine whether you need to submit any permit application forms to the EPA._ If you answer"yes"to any
questions,you must submit this form and the supplemental from listed in the parenthesis following the question.Mark"X"'in the box in the third column if
the supplemental form is attached. If you,answer"no"to each question,you need not submit any of these forms. You may answer"no"if your activity is
excluded from permit requirements:see Section C of the instructions.See also,Section D of the instructions for definitions of bold-faced terms.
SPECIFIC QUESTIONS YES NO arrcac FORM
SPECIFIC QUESTIONS YES No
MARK"X" MARK"X"
FORM'
ATTACHED
A. Is this facility a publicly owned treatment-works & Does or will this facility (either existing or
which results in a discharge'to waters of the ❑ ® ❑ proposed) include a concentrated animal ❑ ® ❑
U.S.?(FORM 2A) feeding operation or aquatic animal
production facility which results in a discharge
16 17 18 to waters of the U.S.?(FORM 26) 19 20 21
C. Is this -facility which currently results in ® ❑ ❑ D. Is this proposal facility(other than those described ❑ ® Eldischarges to waters of the U.S.-other than in A or B above)which will result in a discharge
those described in A or B above? FORM 2C 22 23 24 to waters of the U.S.? FORM 2D 25 . 26 27
E. Does or will this facility treat,store; or'dispose of F. Do you or will you inject at this facility industrial or'
hazardous wastes?(FORM 3) ❑ ® ❑ municipal effluent below the lowermost stratum ❑ ® ❑
containing, within one quarter mile of the well
bore, underground sources of drinking water?
28 29 30 (FORM 4) 31 32 33
G. Do you or will you inject at this facility any H. Do you or will you inject at this facility fluids for
produced water other fluids which are brought to special processes such as mining of sulfer by the
the surface in connection with conventional oil'or ❑ ® ❑ Frasch process,solution mining of minerals,in ❑ ® ❑
natural gas production, inject fluids used for situ combustion of fossil fuel'„or recovery of
enhanced recovery of oil or natural gas,or inject geothermal energy?(FORMA)
fluids for storage of liquid hydrocarbons?
(FORM 4) _ 34 35 36 _37 38 1 39
I. Is- this facility a' proposed stationary source J. Is this facility a proposed stationary source
which is one of the 28 industrial categories listed which is NOT one of the 28 industrial categories
in the instructions and which will potentially emit' ❑ ® ❑ listed in the instructions and which will potentially ❑ ® ❑
100 tons per year of any air pollutant regulated emit 250 tons per year of any air pollutant
un
der
the
an lean Aire Act
an. FORMmay affect or be regulated under the Clean Air Act and may affect
to _
5 40 41, 42 or be located in an attainment are? FORM 5 43_ 44 45
III.NAME OF FACILITY
1 SKIP i0ihnn Co poration j Quartz/Feldspar Facility
15 116-29 30
59
IV. FACILITY CONTACT
A.NAME&TITLE(last,first, &title) B.PHONE(area code&no.)
c' Steve Wilson, QC/Environmental Supervisor 828 765 4283
2
15 16 45 46 48 1 49 51 1 1-52, 55'
V.FACILITY MAILING ADDRESS
A.STREET OR P.O.BOX
3 Post Office Box 588
15 16 — 45
B. CITY OR TOWN C.STATE D.ZIP CODE
c' Spruce Pine NC 28777
4
15 16 40 41 42 47 51
VI. FACILITY LOCATION
A.STREET, ROUTE NO.OR OTHER SPECIFIC IDENTIFIER n 3U \J
5 7638 South 226 Hwy. EA
15 1 16 -B.COUNTY NAME 45 5EP
Mitchell
46 70 _ 6 ER QUALITY
1
C.CITY OR TOWN D.STATE E.ZIP COD Nwje
6 ` CH
c Spruce Pine NC 28777
15• 16 40 41 42 47 51 52[7!7�
EPA FORM 3510-1(8-90) CONTINUED ON REVERSE

CONTINUED FROM THE FRONT
VII SIC CODES-,(4-digit, in order ofj ity)
A. FIRST "T B.SECOND
C, . 9499 (specify) 7 (specify)
1s 17 Miscellaneous Nonmetallic s 1s 1s
Minerals
C.THIRD D. FOURTH 77
c (specify) � (specify)
15 16 17 15 16 19,
Vill.OPERATOR INFORMATION
A. NAME 8.Is the name listed in Item
c Unimin Corporation- Quartz/Feldspar Facility VIII-A also the owner?
1a 19 - 55 EK YES 0 NO'
C.STATUS OF OPERATOR(Enter the appropriate:letter into the answer box;if"Other""specify.). D. PHONE(area code&no.)
F=FEDERAL 1 M=PUBLIC(otherthan federal orstate) P (specify) L82 4283
i O=OTHER(specify) AP=PRIVATE 56 15 18 k765
9' 21 22 25
E.STREET OR PO BOX
Post Office Box 588
26, - -- _ 55
F CITY OR TOWN G.STATE H.ZIP CO
DE IX: INDIAN LAND
c Spruce Pine NC 28777 Is the facility located on Indian'1'5nds?
B
15 16 40 42 42 _47 _51 . El YES NO
X. EXISTING ENVIRONMENTAL PERMITS
A. NPDES(Discharges to Surface Water_ _ D. PSD(Air Emissions from Proposed Sources)
'9 N � NC0000175 c T 8
15 1 16 1 17 1 18 30 15 16 1 17 _18 30
B. UI (Underground Injection of Fluids E.OTHER(specify) (Specify)
C T ' c T 8 0321OR36 NCDENR Air Permit
9 U 9
15 16 17 1 18 30 15 16 17 "18 30
C.RCRA(Hazardous Wastes) E.OTHER(specify (Specify)
VT ' c T 8' 69-04 NCDENR Land Quality
R 9 Permit
161T 18 30 15 16 17 18 30..MAP
Attach to this application a topographic map of the area extending to at least one mile beyond property boundaries. The map must
show the outline of the facility, the location of each of its existing and proposed intake and discharge Wuctures, each of its
hazardous waste treatment, storage, or disposal facilities, and each well where it injects fluids underground. Include all springs,,
rivers and other surface water bodies in the map area. See instructions for precise requirements_
Xll. NATURE OF BUSINESS (provide a brief description)
Mining, milling and separation of Alaskite Ore to produce feldspar, mica and quartz.
XIII. CERTIFICATION (see instructions) _
certify under penalty of law that I have personally examined and am familiar with the information submitted in this application and
all attachments and that, based on my inquiry of those persons immediately responsible for obtaining the information contained in
the application, I believe that the information is true, accurate and complete. I am aware that there are significant penalties for
submitting false information, including the possibility of fine and imprisonment.
A.NAME&OFFICIAL TITLE(type orprint) B.SIGNATURE C.DATE SIGNED
Andrew G. Bradley
SVP Environmental Affairs
COMMENTS FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY
c
C _
15 1 16 55
EPA FORM 3510-1(8-90)

1 1 EPA ID Number(Copyfrom Item 1 ofForm 1) Form proved;
Plea"se type or OMB punt inthe unshatled ar'_e`_as OnlyC
,0 2040=0086 ,
_ -- ,s A �7iial.ex`-ices 7.31-88,.
Form U S;ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY,
APPLICATIOa FOR PERMIT TQDISCHARGE WASTEWATER
2Cy EXISTIN6 MANUFACfiTURING;COMMERCIAL,,;MINING+AND SILVICUTLRAL QPERATIONS
NwEPAConsolidated Permits Program
Outfall_Location',_.�_
For.thisoutfall;"list the latitude anij longitutle,,antl name ofthe receiving wate(`s) ,
:00 ( ) Latitutle, Longitude Receiving Water(namef
Nymber hst�__ Deg Min Sec Deg._ _ Min
001 35 55 58 82 06 11 N. Toe River
1 f Flows,Sources of Pollution;,and Treatment,Technologies,..
A: For each outfallj Provide a description"of`(1)all operations aontnbut ng wastewater to the effluent Incfudmg process wastewater,sarntary"
wasf tet, cooling water and stormwafer runoff; (2)the average)flow contributed by each operation,and (3)°the treatment received,by
. . .. 1he:wastewate'r. Continue on additional sheets if_necessary:
B.. For each outfall;provide,'a description of(1)all operations;contributing wastewater tg the effluent inclitling process wastewater sanitary
wastewatef, dijolin water and storrriwater runoff; 2 the avera";e flow contributed'b each;o-eratidn and 3 the t�eafinent received by'
9 O 9. Y P O
_ the_wastewater.Continue on adtlitional`sheets ifnecessa�': _ _ - _ . _ .�_.
1;s0utfall e° _ 2 OPefations G;ontributng Flow , -;
-
'Nu er a OPERATION(list) b AVERAGE FLOW ' f' a DESCRIPTION b LIST CODES FROM TABLE
001 Process Water 0.1714 MGD Flocculation 1-G
(plant mostly down) Mixing 1-0
Settling 1-U
Precipitation 2-C
Coagulation 2-D
pH control 2-K
4-A
HAW01 Mine Dewatering 0.24 MGD Sedimentation 1-U
4-A
HAW03 Storm Water Runoff Unknown Sedimentation 1-U,4-A
SC5-SC9 Storm Water Runoff Unknown Sedimentation 1-U, 4-A
EPA FORM 3510-2C (Rev. 2-85) Page 1 of 4 CONTINUED ON REVERSE

CONTINUED FROM THE FRONT
C Exeept for;storm rfunoff,leaks,or spills,are any of the,dischar`ges described in Items II A big interrriittent oG seasi nah
,'.,, ❑._YES(c4(nplete the following
3.,FREQUEN0Y
a: DAYS b MONTHS. a FLOW RATE b TOTAL VOLUME
1 OIJTFALL 2 OPERATION(s) DUR=
NUMBER CONTRIBUTING bL PER WEEK PER YEAR' rn:nigd; (specify with units_._ AT
(list) hst (specify„
- - _ ION
(4, ) 1.LONG TERM 2 MAXIMUM 1 LONGTERM 2 MAXIMUM (in tlays),
8Ver8gB) aV2rage�' AVERAGE_ D41CY , AVERAGE DAILY _. ,
III-P,RODUCTION' "_��._ ,�
A Does ah effluent`guidellne-limitation proful'gated bj EPA under Section 304 of the Clean Water Act apply to your facility?
® YES(complete item i 8)_ _ ❑ NO(go to'Sectioir ll�
B,Are the1imitations'In the ap"phcable'efFluent'gwdelifi'e expre"s"sad in tefms of production(or'other measurei ofoperahon)�'
w____�_ _ -__❑ YES(complete item 111 C) NO(go,�to-'Section Ng- _
C,PIf you answered `.yes to Item III B,q'hst the`:ru mi which re resents an actual'measurement of..your level of protlucUori;expressed in the`terms
Q tY p
antl units_used.in'the.appllcatfle effluent,guldeline,,and indicate the;affected ouedlls,_'
1 AVE RAGE:'DAI_LY PRODI•JCTION: . - e. 2.AFFECTED'
a.QIJANTITYiPER DqY ', b.UNITS'OF,MEASURE', c,OPERATION,'PRODUCT„`MATERIAL;,ETG': (hst outfall number§).=
IU,'IMPRO'EMENTS
A,- A*you now reiapiretl by any Federal,.:S'tate, or local authority to Meet'any implementation schedule fo`r the constfuction, upgrading; of
operation of wastewatert'reatment egwprnent or practices o"r any`other environmental'programs which may affect the discharges:described in,
this Appplicatiori?' This includes, but i§ not limited to, 'petmit conditlon`s„,administfa-byd,or enfor•cernerit`orders, enforcement compliapce
scfiedu a I'etter`s;;stip`ulation"s,court ore'ers;,and grant ci loan'conditionss
' ❑,YES_(c'ornplete fhefollo�Ging�tableJ _�Fr_ . ��NO ,(goa;to Itein.lV 8}_ _`_,_,
- - _
2 �AFFECTEb OUTFALUS 4 FINAL
1 IDENTIFICATION REEME OF CONDITION -"
3 NCE DATE.
AGNT;ETC. No b SOUR'CE OF©I,SCHARG,E BRIEF DESCRIPTION.OF PROJECT aOREQ IA' `b PRO-
UIRED.-'_ JECTED!
r.
B', 'OPTIONAL. You may attach'sdtlitional sheets de"scribing any additional water pollution con'tiol programs (or other environmental projects.
which`may affect'your dischar(4)you n`ovu have underway br wfiict cyou plan Indicate whether eacfi.prograiri+is,66w`underway or plahnedj,
and indicate your actual,or planned sbNbdules for con"structiod.
`" ___.❑_MARK 'X IF DESCRIPTION OF;ADDITIONAL CONTROL PROGRAM IS ATTACHED:,___._._„_
EPA FORM 3510-2C (Rev. 2-85) Page 2 of 4 CONTINUED ON PAGE 3

CONTINUED FROM THE FRONT
VEL. IOLOG'ICAL TOXICITY TESTING DATA_, _
Do you have,any knowletlge or'reason fo believe`:that.any biological testfor acute or chronic owcify las Been,made on any bfiyour discfiarges of on;:a
r`eceiving water in`laelation'to',y_our di- hatg-'witt in1,tKd last 3 years?'
_ ' YES(identify the test($),and describe then purpose below)' ; ,_-_,w _ , , M 0 NO'(go to Sectlorn Vlll)'
Quarterly chronic toxicity(Ceriodaphnia)testing required by permit.
VIII:,`CONTRACT_ANAL'8f$INFQRMATION,
- --
Were'.any of the analyses reported rn Item V performed by a contract laboratory or consulting firm?
YES(list the name address;and.telephone number of,and pollutants 0 NO^(go to Sect�orr lXj:
analyzed%by,each such laboratoy.._or-firm 6,e_','low),
-- - - - - -
A NAME B ADDRESS; C TiELEPHONE'. D.POLLUTANTS ANALYZED'
Pace Analytical 2225 Riverside Drive,Asheville, NC [phone] Al, Sulfates
Services, Inc. 28804 ( )
( J
( J
( J
IX :C`ERTIFICATION
s -
1 ceiti under' enalt".of law that this"dgcumerit.and all•attachrn�ents were:prepafed under my direction,or supervision m acc"ordance with a sy"stem'fy p y
designed to•assurg that qua(ifed'personnel properly gather and evaluate the inforRlation'submitted: Based;onl my inquiry'of,'the person or person"s_
who;manage. the system or those persons cdreef/y, responsi6/e for g'atl enng
o Elie, information;; th"e iriforination submitted is to, the best of my
knwledg a and belief true accurate and comp, lete I am aware that there are significarit'penalties for'subrhioirig,false information;,including the
_ �
possibility of brie and-im nsonment fork nowing.violabons.
A. NAME&OFFICIAL TITLE(type orprint) B.PHONE NO.(area code&no.)
Andrew G. Bradley, S.V.P. Environmental Affairs [phone]
C.SIGNATURE D.D E SIG ED
EPA FORM 3510-2C (Rev. 2-85) Page 4 of 4

PLEASE PRINT OR TYPE IN THE UNSHADED AREAS ONLY. You may report some or EPA I.D.NUMBER(copy from Item 1 of Form 1)
all of this information on separate sheets(use the same format)instead of completing NC
these pages. SEE INSTRUCTIONS.
'Ur INTAKE ANQIEFFLUEN;(CHAR'ACTERISTICS?'(co'n'tinuedPfrom+) age:'3`of.F.ormr2 Cf
FART Ab-You;musf; rovlde=the:results;of,atxleast one)anal sls for°eve .; ollutant tm;thls.table. Com` lete,one)table`for,eachl,o f"' `'�ut all: See"_'Instructions.for,atlditi"onal'details°. ._
2'•EFFL'UENI _ - 3 IJNITSS 4.INrTiAKE (optional)I
I •-'ll. P,OL''LUTANT' a:MAXIMUMIDAILY+' ,I b.'MAXIMUM�30ZAY VALUE ,: ,c:'LONG3TERM'AVRGmm VALUE, -` S ec f (Ifi'°blan'k ai Lo,Nc;TERM�
i "" "_`LL --"` VALUE' •„; Ofava)lable).° ;i' (ifava�lable) _ dS NO:,OF -Y �` AV O OF
f M n)' ANAL_XSIS, a COC EN- `(i AV LUE' ANALYSES', '
j CONCENTRATION e{" C�)MA55- CONCENTRATION' 1 (2)N55 'CONCENTRATION '.(2)MA55 I ,
E'VA
b•MASS CONCENTRATION (2)MASS
RATION,
rai,Biochlemical,Qxygeh) -
Demandi,($00
'Dom Chemical}Oxygen i
and),(COD 1
c).Tota6Qrgenic::Carbon
(IT0,C)i
d� Tofal Suspended Solids:(",Tss); 221 109 26.7 136 Ibs
'e_ Ammon ia',(as'N):
i Value Value Value Value
f:Flow 0.3583 .2215 .1714 136 MGD
g(Temperature,(winte Cr) Value Value Value e Value
Ambient
h Temperature'(summerf, Value Value Value C Value
i Ambient
+ Minimum Maximum Minimum Maximum
i.,pH, 136 STANDARD)UNTIS:`
I
?'
6.9 8.3
PART H Mark, X4 inIsolumni2-a)for:each oil', an r-
p - ut t you know•or have reason to,bel eue Lsl present. Mark. X In,column,,2 for each I.- you belieue to..be absent. If tyou'+
:mark,column 2'aJor,-an ollutanf which„isrhmited;eithetr,directl. or,mdirectl '.buti,ex ressh zan,a,°,'efB en= 'y, p _ y y, _ p. y,, n u ,t limitation guideline, you must;provide the,results of ato leash`
._ -.. .
one:anal sit; or th it. ollufant�. For: other, oll.ufants'.for which ou'mark,column 2a y, p p_ _. ,_ ,yt- , you+must(prowder;gpaLltitatiV,e';data or an;explanation ofi'their, presence,in your
dischar e..6nn fete>�one,table.'forieash;outfall? Seei:thOa!instrUcti0nsifor additiOnaldefaUsaand;re uiremerifs., . -
a ) ,MARW _ 2j EFF�LWEN;T' _ - 3 UNITS 44' INT>AKE (optional)]1 POLLUT
AN,Tt'AND'' �eE e;eE;_ 4. a:,MAXIMUM DAILY' b"MAXIMUM'30,DAY'VALUE. - -
EVEW _, uEVEU R"'�c LONG'T.ERM AV,RG?,VALUE'
RaEs (it.ava(latilgj, d NQ:OF': (SpeC%fy/f blc�n�C�t ai.LONG�TERMr,.
CAS NQs, If,, SEE' stir if'avatlatile°_ AVERAGE VALUE b.NO'VALUE. ( ) OF
I -• ( (1) i CONCENTRATION I2 MAS$�`OK1. CONCENTRATION• (P)MA _ i ANAL' S� -_.-a CONCEN= I ..b:. '(1).,- _ ( ANALYSEv`a
CONCENTRATIO. .(2)MASS'.. - -_ 'CONCEyNTRATION .i (2)MA9_S P,> gg� MASSi`
TRATION'.
a Bromide ® 4
i 2495.9,67='9'
I ti;Chlorine. ElTotal'
Residual':'
c^ Color.,
d' Fecal:
Coliform: °
i e Fluoride) ® El24 6 8.15 136
1_:16984;48':S
f"Nitrate-
Nitrite(b's Ny
EPA FORM 3510-2C (Rev. 2-85) Page V-1 CONTINUE ON REVERSE

ITEM V-B CONTINUED FROM FRONT
1.POLLUT `MARK'X" a.MAXIMUM'DAILY b.MAXIMUM 30 DAY VALUE T s e.UNITS` 4 INTAKE o tional)
2
2'. EFFLUEN ,
LONGTERM AVRG:VALUE, _ f '
ANT AND. ':EEC LIEVEO C:LO ( p ify! bank) ONG+TERM'
a�.L
rRES- A9-.." (if available). (if avaliable)'� .d:NO.OF _ AVERAGEVALUE' _ b:,NO.OF
CAS NO.,(/f ENT SENT CONCENTRATO'ALUE�)MA55 corvcE(+) (') ANALYSIS a:CONCEN- ANALYSES•
available), CONCENTRATION (2),MASS,, CONCENTRATION (2)MA55 - + b:"MASS. CONCENTRATION (2)MAS
TRATION
g.,Nitrogen, ❑
Total Organic
(a&Al
h,.Oil'and ❑
Grease
i 'Phosphorus ,
(as.P),Totat ❑
' •7723-1'4-0
11`• Radioactivity -
,
(1);Alpha, - El ® -
Total
(2)Bets, ❑
Total°
(3)'Radium,.
Total
(4),Radium El226;Total
k,Sulfate(as. ® ❑ �20
SOq)
14808-79-8
k Sulfide ❑
' (as S)•
m:Sulfite:(as ElS03)(
14265-45.='3'
i n.Surfactants" ❑
o.Aluminum,
Total. ® ❑ 2.9 9
7429-90-5
i p,Barium;
Total ❑
7440739=3''
q:Boron,
Total' ❑
1'.440.4M
r.Cobalt,; .
Total ❑
i 7440-48=4'
i is:lron;'Total
7439-89-4' ❑
t.'Magnesium,
Total ❑
7439-954 '
:u.Molybdenum, ❑
Total
7439-98-7..
w Manganese, ❑
Total
7439-96-5
w.Tin',Total ❑
(74.4.0=31-5)
x.Titanium„ ❑
Total
7440-32-8
EPA FORM 3510-2C (Rev. 2-85) Page V-2 CONTINUE ON PAGE V-3

EPA I.D.NUMBER(copy from Item 1 of Form 1) OUTFALL NUMBER
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 3 OF FORM 2-C NC 001
PART C_ If you,are a•prlmary•Industry and(thls outfall contains„process'wastewatec, refer to Table'2c=2 In'the',instructions'to.determine which'of,thei:GC/M5:`fraetions ourmusfltest for."'Mar, X"in•c I_. o umn 2 a•for alLsuch.GC/MS:
,Y-
fractions that apply to"your industry and{or ALL toxic metals,cyanides,a ndt:total,'phenols: 'If you,,are not required to+'mark column 2"a;(secondary•industries; nonprocess wastewater orffalls,`and non-required GCIMS•
fractions);,mark X,"'i'n`,•column,2=b'foreach'pollutant.youaknow brhave reason to believes-is present: Mark''X"iwcolurm 2-c'for'each,pollutant,,yo0'believe is'absent. ,If ou.mark column 2a'for an -' ollutanf you mush
yP r
provlde;the,results'of.'at'least;oneanalys-isrforthat'pollutant, Ifyou.markcolumn'2b°forany,,,polldtant,you must+provide'the.resultsxoI at]east one'anal sisforthaf ollWtant: 'If'ou'know,orr'h`ave"reasonto.belie5esi,wilfbe,
y P Y . - t -
discharged in,concentrations=of I ppb-`or'greater. 1f you.,mark column 2b.for acrolein„acrylonitrile;:2;4 dinitrophenol,or 2-methyl-4,°6 dinitroplienol,you must,provide the results`of at'leasUone anal sis for°each'of these;
Y.
pollutants'which;you,know or,have:,reason`to.believe that'you discharge;ini concentrationsrof 100',ppb or greater. Otherwise,"for,1pollutants,for which:you.mark.column°2b;you,•must'either submit it?least.one analysis or
briefly describe the reasons}the'poll utanf.is'expected.to be discharged: Note,thaf,'thereare 7' a'es to"this?. arts'1eEse reViewdeach darefbll t Complete one,,ab ii •9 P_9� P , P_ _ y P. _ t .le,(_all 7 pages),for each outfall. See,instructions:for
Edditionalr;details.and;re uirement9.
1`POLLUT'
2 MARK,'X' '2.EFFLUENT 3t UNITS' 4::!INTAKE,(p ti6 l)
ANT AND; a TEST- 0.BE c BE- at MAXIMUMIDAILY'VALUE b:MAXIMUM'30'DAY VALUE: C;:tQNG,TERMAVRGi. p a:'LONG'TERW
CAS'NO'',(if. ING RE "LIEVED'' „ L'IEV,E (if'available) VALUE d.,NO OF AVERAGE VALUE ''b.NO)OF
QUIREM PRE- D` if available ANALYST a f1
c2rMAss' (s c►fy►f bla k).
ANALYSE,-
. CONCEN ,
dVB/Iebie SENT ABS__N, (1)=NGENT_ 1 CONCENT-
- ATION - (2)MASS'; O 2 MASS (7pCONCENT- S tJ.'.. ASS' poNCENiRAno ;(?)'MASS,
$
' - RATION t) RATION
T - N.
TRATION
METALS;CYANIDE',,AND'T,OTAL PHENOL'S; ;
1m:,Antimony,.
Total'
74'40-3fi=0
2M..Arsenic, ❑ ElTotal,
1 ,7440'-38-2
M.Beryllium;
I Total'
7440-41-7
4Mi'Cadmium,
Total'
74'40-43-9
5M'Chromium,
(Total
7440-47-3
6M;Copper,
j'Total
7440-50=8
7M lead',Total
7439-92-1'
j 81VI'Mercury,
Total,
i 7439=97-6,
(-9M';Nickel,
Total'
1 .74.40'02-0
10M'Selenium,
Total°
7782-49-2
11M Silver, ® I
Total-
{ 7440-224
12M`Thal lium;
Total'
+7440-28-0
4'13M,Znc;
i Total`
7440=66-6'�
14M'Cyanide;,
Total
57-.12d5
15M'Phenols
Total'•
2 3 7;,8;Tetra- ® DESCRIBE RESULTS
chlorodibenz_o=
P-Dioxin
1764--01=6
EPA FORM 3510-2C (Rev. 2-85) Page V-3 CONTINUE ON REVERSE

CONTINUED FROM THE FRONT
1.POL`LUT- ! I MAR►c x?' 2 :EFELUENT' 3i,'.hJ,NITS`: 4.;INTAKE (opfionalJ_
ART AND., a TEST- b.::BEr C'BE= T a'MAXIMUMiD'AILY° b:MAXIMUM 30'DAYVALUE'. c WN&TERWAVRG: S @CIf Jf'blapl(,` ( a`.LONG TERM
CAS'NO. of'_I ING RE. t LIEVED) L'IEVED' !„ VALUE: �� (ifayarla6le)' XAL_UE •d.'NO OF AVERAGE VALUE
9UIRED- . . PRE- ,{, ABSENT' (1)coNcENT- (1)coNCENT(jfaVaitable ANQLYSh t I ANALYSE`
avallahle). (1)CONCENT- y
RATION. O - RATION; .a (4)MASS ,`RATIONS ', (21 MASS', ._.TRA•ION; b.M� ' ` NTRn7i0`, (z)rdnss.SENT'_ z MAss ASS. coHcee
GCIM&-VOL?ATILE.COMPOUNDS,
9. _.
1V.A'crolein
(107-62=B)• ❑ ❑
2VAcry10nitn1/e
WBenzene'
(7145"2) ❑ ❑
4V.,Bis'(Ch1oro-
methyl)Ether ❑ ❑
' 542-88-1,
SV,Bromoform'
(75-25-2) ❑ ❑
6VCa[6pn, ❑ ❑
Tetrachloride,
r 56 23'-5
ZV Chlorotjenzene-
(108-90-7) ❑ ❑
8Vometdi- ❑ Elbromomethane
124-48=1
9V Chloroethane)-
(75-00--3) ❑ ❑
IOV 2-Chl6ro= .I
ethylvinyl Ether ❑ ❑
110r75-6',
1 1V Chloroform
-'
(67 56;3) ❑ ❑
bromoethane' .
75r.71-8.
drflucromethane.
75-71=8
i 14V1;1r1Dichloro=
ethane; ❑ ❑
75;34-3
ethane=Dichloro-: ( ❑ ❑
r
107=06;2 r
16Vleneichloro-
eth - ❑ ❑
ethylene
(753354),
17V 1 2-Dichloro
propane: ❑ ❑
78=87=5
18V enhloro- ❑ ❑
propyllenee:
542=76-6 1
19,V.'
Ethylbe" Elnzene- ❑
100'41-'4`,
Br om dehyh ❑ ❑
74'-83-9
21V Methyl'i ❑ ❑
Chloride.
(74-87-3
EPA FORM 3510-2C (Rev. 2-85) Page V-4 CONTINUE ON PAGE V-5

EPA I.D.NUMBER(copy from Item 1 of Form 9) OUTFALL NUMBER
CONTINUED FROM PAGE V-4 NC- 009 ._
1.POLLUT '' - 2.ru�aRK.'x`` Z EFFLUENT' 3:.,UNITS' 4`.-INTAKE'(o fiona'/))'
ANTAND, a.TEST- ; b.BE C.BE a:IMAXIMUM'DAILY' F—MAMMUM'30 DAY VALUE c:L'ONG TERM AVRG; blank),,, NG TER
INGRE QUIRE LIEVED� LIEVED', VALUE o availsble VALUE' ANALYSh (S/JBCIfj/�If b1aI1 ). , a.CO IVI OE
s, ) Vb NO
.'OF
If D" , PRE ABSENT if-available' ANALYSE
SEN•I?, d1)'CONCENT- (1)CONCENT- --- (1)CONCENT- - - - - -__ A')ERAnn LUE
RATION. (2)MASS, RATION, (2),MASS; RATION, (2)'MASS Sa a" b..MASS' 'CONCENTRATIONUE VA(2),MASS. S`
CONGER-
' TRATION'
G-C/Ms, VOLATIL'E:COMPO,UNDS�,(continued)
22Vridelerie. - ❑ El ®
Chloride,-
75=09=2
23V1' 'WhTetra-
Chl ❑ ❑
Chloroethane
79-34=5
24V
eth Tetrachloro`-' El
ethylene(
127-'18-4
Toluene,
rans
Dichloroeth lene ❑ ❑
156-60=5
chloroethane,� El El
7,1-55-6
_ n ❑ ❑
chloroe{hane'
79-00=5
nc oro ❑ ❑
ethylene
79=01-6
nc ❑ ❑
fluoromethanoro-e
75;69-4
Iny ❑ ❑
8hloride
75-014
GC/M'S'FRACTION ACID>COMPOUNDS'-
1A 2-Chlorophenol'- ❑ ❑ ® ' -
'
2heno4ichiloro- ❑ ❑
henol
120-83=2
3A 2,Q-Dimethyl- ❑ ❑
phe,9
-0 OS_67-9'
Im ro=: ❑ ❑
O cresol
534=`52-1''
_.Imro ❑ Elphenol'
51-28-5
= Lro ❑ ❑
phenol,
88-75=5
= tro-
phenoG El El
100=02-7'
oro-.--
M=Cresol' ❑ ❑
59`:50'7
enta-
chlorophenol
87-86-5
eno
�(1;01-95=2)„ ❑ ❑
ri
chlorophenot ❑ ❑
EPA FORM 3510-2C (Rev. 2-85) Page V-5 CONTINUE ON REVERSE

CONTINUED FROM THE FRONT
1. POLLUT- 2:r�aRK'x' 2:.EFFLUENT 3: UNITS; INTAKE'(,o-tional)r
ANT AND, a TEST- '' b"BE- c BE' a'MAXIMUIV14% -Y b:MAXIMUM 30-DAY 4y c:,L'ONG'TERM''AVRG: :• nk)a
CAS;'NO:.;If ! INGIRE, LIEVED L`IEVED' VALUE VALUE; VALUE' " d NO:-.OF LRAGE VALUE, " b.NO"OF
OUIRER% PRE- ABSENT davailable, ifavaila6le, ANALYST, V ANALYSE.
avallabll9; (1)!CONCENT-, "' '(1)CONCENT- (1)CONCENT- 1 bIa A(')E
spec►y.►
SENT =RATION. (2)MASS', RATION, (2);MASS RATION r' 'i(2)MASS - S`, a b..MASS� CONCENTRATION' (2)MA55-
CONCEN;,
TRATION
GC%MS FRACTION:-'BASE/NEUTRAL COMPOUNDS
1 B'Acenphthene
El m
2B Acenaphtylene
(208-96-8) ❑ ❑
39i'Anthracene
(120=124) ❑ ❑
(92 87 5)dine: ❑ ❑
5BBen-zo,O) ❑ ElAnthracene
56-55'-3
6B1Benzo.(a)
Pyrene(50,32-8,) ❑ ❑
7B 3�,A-Benzo- ❑ ❑
fluoranthenc
BB+Benzo!(ghi)' El ❑
Perylene
i191-24-2).
Fluoranthene '
207=08=9
1DB'Bis,(2
¢hloro,thoxy)� ❑ ❑
Methane
4'1'1'-91-1
"ethyl)Ether
`111=44-4'
Cfalomisep/opyq
Ether"102-60-1.
)PEthyl'hexylQ Phthalate'
- ❑ ❑
41'7-t31-Z
14?BSA=Bromo-
phenyWheny.1' ❑ ❑
Ether 101=55-3,
15BiButyl`Benzyl:-- El ❑
Phthalate
85;68-7
naphtha elne ❑ ❑
91=88-7.
17BA=Chloro-
phenyl Phenyl; ❑ ❑
"'Ether(7,005-72-3
1BBIChrysene
(21501,9)_ ❑ ❑
imbibenzo,(a;h)' j ❑ ElAnthracene-
53-70=3
T,2-Dichloro- ❑
be ❑
benzene
95.50-1i'
benzeneichloro ❑ El5141'-75=1)'
EPA FORM 3510-2C (Rev. 2-85) Page V-6 CONTINUE ON PAGE V-7

EPA I.D.NUMBER(copy from Item 1 of Form 9) OUTFALL NUMBER
CONTINUED FROM PAGE V-6 NC 001
1 POLLUT- 2•IvIaRK'x' 2.EFFLUENT' w T UNITS, 4.-INTAKE':(optional)'
ANT.-AND, MUM"DAILY' b.MAXIMUM.3DiDAY VALUE' ' c:LONGTERMlAVRG> Sp QCIf if�Jfan{6: a.LONG°TERM?
a TEST b.•BE 'c BE a.MA I
L°-_IEVED_;'- VALUE' (ifavailable)• VALUE, — d NO`.OF �! N.NO.,QF
CAS-'NO'. (if QUIREDi PRE. ' AVERAGE VALUE'
if=available
ABSENT' __ - _ • �. _ ANALYST; .� � � , .ANALYSE'
aValtabte INGeRE-, LSENT OYCONCENT- ' CONCENT O ENT-,i $�' a:,C0NC N, b:MASS; (�)' !(z),Ass S;RATION' ,. '(2)MASS t 2 MASS-- t�);CONON (2).MASS �' ASSe coNCENTRATION
GCIM&-BASEINEU,TRAL COMPdUNDS,,(continued) ;
y ichloro benzene ❑
106-46-7
benzidinemoro" ❑ ❑
91=94-1
24B Diethyh
Phthalate .. ❑ ❑
84'66-2`-
25B'.Dimethyl
'Phthalate, ❑ ❑
1I3,1'-1'1'-3
Phthalate,Butyl�, ❑ ❑
.131'-11'-3
ol ue 4`-(Diriitro ❑ ❑
aoluene;
121-1'42
"28B,276-Dintro'
toluene ❑ ❑
606-2o-2
'Phi hala a t7clyl ❑ ❑
117364=D.
3081,2?Diphenyh El ❑
hydrazine?(as
Azo-benzene)
122-66-7
31 B,Fluoranthene,
(206-44'-0)- ❑ ❑
32B„Fluorene
(86 73-7)' ❑ ❑
chlorobenzene,�
1'18=74'-,1'
c_hlorobutadiene
87-68-3
3WHentadiene ❑ ❑
cyclopentadiene
7r7=47-4
36B`Hetha El ❑chloroethane-
67-72=1
` 37B,J-6dno ❑ ❑
j$9 39-5�
38B Isophorone
(78 59-1j' ❑ ❑
396.Napthalene
(91-20'3) ❑ ❑
40B°Nit(o6enzene
(98-95-3) ❑ ❑
47B<N-Nitr6. ❑ ❑
'sodimetfiylamine '
62r75?9
428;N Nitrosdi-N- '
" Propylamine' ❑ ❑
664 7)
EPA FORM 3510-2C (Rev. 2-85) Page V-7 CONTINUE ON REVERSE

CONTINUED FROM THE FRONT
T.POLLUT 2.nnp RK^xl 2':E-FFLUENT' 1.: U`NITS) 4.4NTAKE'(o iion_al)
ANT AND' a..SEST- b;,BE- c:,BE- a.,-MAXIMUM„DAILY b.MAxIMUM 30}DAY VALUE 6.LQNGrTERMKAVRG. S eC f ^if) a.f'ONGTERM,
CAS NO If ING,RE L'IEVED' LIEV,ED VALUE (ifavarlatile)' VALUE d.NQ:OF ( p y -nk�'. b NO.OF'
' (' .. VERA
QUIRED) PRE- ABSENT _ _ if,availWe)e MALY,Sh ANALYSE
available), (1)CONCENT- (1)CQNCENT- (1)CONCENT- a:CONCEN- a At)) GE ALOE
SENT' '1 RATION (2)'MASS, i RATION: (2)MASS'- y ,RATION... (2)MASS'nX S - `b: MAS,$, "poNCENTRAr)o. V(2)MASs', ,'S
TRATIONi N
GC%MS FRACTION',-.B'ASE/NEUTiRAL.;COMPO;UNDSb(continued)a `
43B}NNltro-- El ❑
sodiphenylamine
' 86230=6 -
P,henanthrene(85 -' ❑
455 Pyrene;
(1297000) ❑ ❑
46B T,2-,4 Tri ❑ ❑
chlorobenzene
120-82=1
GC/MS FRACTION,-.PESTICIDES -
1 P Al&in
(309-QD-2) ❑ ❑
2P-p=Bhc
(319`-85-7), ❑ ❑
4P'y-BHC
(58-89=9) ❑ ❑
5P S,BHC
(319=85:4 ❑ ❑
6P Chlordane.
(57=74-9) ❑ ❑
7P'4;4'=DDT
(50:29-3)- ❑ ❑
8P'4A,DDE
(72'55-9), ❑ ❑
9P 4;4'-DDD `
(72=54-8); ❑ ❑
10R Dieldrin.
(60-W-1), ❑ ❑
sultan-Endo; El ❑
sulfas'
',115-29-7
12P`p-'Endo7 ❑ ❑
ulfan
115-29=7
13P Endosulfan, --
Sulfatei ❑ ❑
1031-07=8'
14P Endrih'
(72=20=8) ❑ ❑
A d n ehyd'el ❑ ❑
7421='k-4'
Hepta
chlo ❑ ❑
EPA FORM 3510-2C (Rev. 2-85) Page V-8 CONTINUE ON PAGE V-9

EPA I.D.NUMBER(copy from Item 1 of Form 1) OUTFALL NUMBER
CONTINUED FROM PAGE V-6 NC 001
1. POLL I T- 2.EFFLUENT 3?.,'UNITS' 4'.'INTAKE-(,o.tio'nal)
ANT AND i TEST.
ST 2 bI BE- LcEBE- a:MAXIMU VALEDAIL'Y b.MAXIMUM 30 DAY VALUE, c:LONG;TERM AVRG. (specify if blank)- a.,LONG TERM;
(' } PRE ABSENT: 1�)coNCENr- (t)coNeENTif vaila6le (�)coNCENfavai able): ANWSI a ieONCEN- OF
AVERAGE VALUE, b NO'.SE
CAS,NO. if QUIRED
available) ANALYSE
SENT RATION (2).MA55 RATION (2)MASS ,RATION (2)MASS S. -`TRATION, b:MASS: 'CONCENRATIO (z�.puss, S
GC/MS-PESTICIDES(continues#
17 pxideachlor ❑ ❑
Expxide
1024-57-3
18P-'PCB=1242�
(53469=21-9)', ❑ ❑
19P PCB=1254
(11097-69A) ❑ ❑
20P`,PCB-1221
(1,1104-28'-2) ❑ ❑
21 P-PCB'1232.
(11141-16=5), ❑ ❑
22P'PC13-1248
(12672=29=6)� ❑ ❑
23P PCB-1260.
(1109642-5) ❑ ❑
2417'P-CB=1016
0267411-2) El El
25P Toxa=
phene, ❑ ❑
6001-352
EPA FORM 3510-2C (Rev. 2-85) Page V-9

CONFIDENT IA
Unimin Corporation—Quartz/Feldspar Facility

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NCDENR
North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources
Division of Water Quality
Beverly Eaves Perdue Coleen H. Sullins �.. rf `.- :L3µ.� r'.
= Dee Freeman
Governor Director ---- � Secretary
June 3, 2009 JUN - 4 2009
Mr. Jeffery S. Ferguson P.E.
Unimin Corporation ' WATER QUA'ITY SECTION t
136 Crystal Drive ASHEVILLE REGt�NA��FFICE
Spruce Pine, NC 28777
Subject: P�ermit.Modification`request
Unimin-Corp.­WWTP'
NPDES Permit NC0060:175''
Mitchell County
Dear Mr. Ferguson: �UlLtr`Gz` Fe-1 s-p i v`
The Division of Water Quality(DWQ) has reviewed your request for modification of the subject permit by deletion
of the sampling requirements for Lindane from your existing NPDES permit. In the permit issued November 1,2006,
supplemental conditions allowed a review of twelve months;of data to determine if reasonable potential to.exceed the
allowable concentration still existed.
The request for removal of the Lindane limit was reviewed and a reasonable potential analysis was conducted:,A
review of discharge monitoring reports submitted to the DWQ between November 2007 and March 2009 provided the-...*
data used in.the updated reasonable potential analysis. Based on this set of sampling results,the analyses:indicate.there
is still reasonable potential for the Unimin Corporation to discharge wastewater effluent containing levels of Lindane.The
con'centration.of Lindane indicated there was potential to exceed the allowable concentration instream. The effluent data
submitted indicated two (2) detections of Lindane in January 2008,while there was no detection in the corresponding.
influent samples.
DWQ commends the efforts that Unimin has made to determine the source of pesticides by working through
Waste Reduction Partners. DWQ understands that upstream land use (primarily Christmas tree farming)may be a
contributing source.At this time your request for removal of Quarterly monitoring for Lindane is denied.. Please continue
to report Lindane results to the lab reported Quantitation level (as opposed to ND). If you have any questions
concerning this permit, please contact Bob Guerra at telephone number(919) 807-6387.
Sin relly,,
C leen H. Sullins
cc: gs e r 9 Regi al Office/Surface Water Protection
NPDES File/NC0000175
Central File
1617 Mail Service Center,Raleigh,North Carolina 27699-1617
Location:512 N.Salisbury St,Raleigh,North Carolina 27604 One
Phone:[phone]\FAX:[phone]\Customer Service:1-877-623-6748 NorthCarolina
Internet:www.ncwaterquality.org '/
An Equal Opportunity 1 Affirmative Action Employer atu rially

NC® NR
North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources
Division of Water Quality
Beverly Eaves Perdue Coleen H. Sullins Dee Freeman
Governor Director E C � � �r7 �--Secretary
. DI - V
April 29,2009
APR 3 0 2009 1UD
JEFFREY S FERGUSON PE
ENVIRONMENTAL ENGINEER WATER ouaurY sEcrloly
UNIMIN CORPORATION ASHEvlLE REGIONAL OFFICE
136 CRYSTAL DRIVE —
SPRUCE PINE NC 28777
Subject: Acknowledgement ofTer.mit-lYlodificationRequest for�:.NC0000.175 .
Unimin Corporation — i u- r&z f P2ld s'Pa,-
Quartz Operation
Mitchell County
Dear Mr.Ferguson:
The Division of Water Quality acknowledges receipt of your permit modification request and has assigned it to a
reviewer.
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.
If you have any questions,please contact Robert Guerra at 919-807-6387,.or via email at [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,
Dina Sprinkle
Cc: Central Files
r EMevill *o;na ice Surface Water Protection Section
Permit application file NC0000175
1617 Mail Service Center,Raleigh,North Carolina 27699-1617
Location:512 N.Salisbury St.Raleigh,North Carolina 27604 One t
Phone:[phone] FAX:[phone] Customer Service:1-877-623-6748 NOTthCarOlina,
Internet:vvww.ncwaterquality.org Naturally
An Equal Opportunity 1 Affirmative Action Employer

.f
4, -EIVED
uniminREC
4,
Environmental Affairs ,
-'APR 2 7 2009
Unimin Corporation .
136 Crystal Drive•Spruce Pine,NC 28777 - -
(PHONE)828/.766-6081•(FAQ 828/765 4755 DENR W. TER QUALITY.
POINT SOU 12 CIA
CERTIFIED MAIL
RETURN RECEIPT REQUESTED
Ms. Coleen H.Sullins,Director
NCDENR-.Division of Water Quality_
1617 Mail Service Center
Raleigh,North Carolina 27699-1617
Subject: Request for Removal of Pesticide Sampling Requirements
Unimin Corporation's_Qua Feldspar Facility:
NPDES PermALNG0000 -t
Dear Ms. Sullins:
Per Section A (7) of NPDES Permit NC0000175 issued to Unimin Corporation's
- Quartz/Feldspar facility (cover dated February 11, 2008), Unimin requests that you remove
the pesticide monitoring requirement for Lindane as there is no reasonable potential to
exceed the allowable concentration, not does Unimin have any control over the minute
amount of pesticides that are being pulled into the process from the N.Toe River.
As previously noted, the Waste Reduction Partners' Director, NC Division of
Pollution Prevention and Environmental Assistance, agrees that none of Unimin's raw
materials, mined residues, processing reagents used in the flotation and product isolation_
processes, wastewater treatment chemicals, or any other onsite chemical use could be the
sources of Lindane or Heptachlor found in effluent analyses. The Waste Reduction Partners
further agree that any traces of these-pesticides must already be present in influent water,
which have,in fact,,been detected in the source_—influent water from the North Toe River.
The facility has had no further hits for Lindane since-the permit was modified on .
February 11, 2008. We are .certain that the•pesticides• detected in the past are-due to
stormwater runoff from the numerous Christmas tree farms located upstream in both Avery
&Mitchell counties.
Unimin continues,to protest the imposition of-effluent monitoring requirements for
Lindane due to the fact that any positive analyses for these pesticides are beyond our control
Unimin has:continued to monitor and.incur the unnecessary expenses associated with-the

\O` yv A T�` ` ; -Michael F Easley,Governor
O\ 9PG William G.Ross Jr.;'Secretary
y North Cmlina-DeJa n r me a atu a e oueces
C 11
een Sul i o
tvtst—IS on o}Wa[e{ al t
October 16,2008 OCT 2 2 2008
Mr.Andrew Bradley
Unimin Corporation WATER QUALITY SECTION
P.O.Box 588 ASHE_VILLE REGIONAL OFFICE
Spruce Pine, NC 28777
Subject: Permit,Correction of Unimin Corp.WWTP
NPDES PerkVNCOOOO:f75
Mitchell County"
Dear Mr. Bradley: Je(G�S�a
Division personnel have reviewed and corrected parts of your existing NPDES Permit to address ongoing
reporting difficulties.The permit corrections will allow Mine Dewatering values to be entered into the Divisions
database(BIMS)to reflect ongoing compliance at your facility.These permit corrections are as follows:
➢ Part 2 of your"Supplement to permit cover sheet"will read as follows, Discharge process wastewater
from mineral extraction of ore through outfall 001, mine dewatering and/or overflow from facilities
that recycle process wastewater through outfall 002,and stormwater through outfalls HAW01,
HAW03,and SC5 through SC8 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."
➢ Table 3;"Effluent Limitations and Monitoring requirements for Mine Dewatering wastewater",will read as
follows, During the period beginning on the effective date of the permit and lasting until expiration,
the Permittee is authorized to discharge mine dewatering and/or overflow from facilities that recycle
process wastewater from outfall 002. Such discharges shall be limited and monitored by the
Permittee as specified below":
➢ Table 3 Footnotes#1,#2 and#5 have been deleted or incorporated into Table 3.
We are forwarding you the new Supplemental to Permit Cover page and the new Table 3, "Effluent
Limitations and Monitoring requirements for Mine Dewatering wastewater".You should replace your existing
Supplemental to Permit Cover page and your existing Table 3, Effluent Limitations and Monitoring
requirements for Mine Dewatering wastewater pages from your current permit with these two pages.This
permit correction 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).
If any parts,measurement frequencies or sampling requirements contained in this permit correction 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 Bob Guerra at telephone number(919)
807-6387.
Sin rely,
C enH. Tins
NC0000175 Modified pages
co pheville Regionals Office/Surface Water Protection
Mr.Jy eery Ferguson/'Unimin Corporation PO Bon 588, Spruce Pine, NC 28777
Aquatic Toxicology
NPDES File/NC0000175
Central File
Mailing Address Phone[phone] Location One
1617 Mail Service Center Fax [phone] 512 N.Salisbury St. North Carolina
Raleigh,NC 27699-1617 Raleigh,NC 27604 JVahmalll,�
Internet: www.ncwaterguality.org Customer Service 1-877-623-6748
An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer—50%Recyded/i 0%Post Consumer Paper

fi
Permit NC0000175
- r
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 is hereby authorized to:
1. Continue operation of a wastewater treatment plant for process wastewater from
mineral extraction consisting of-
0 Dewatering cyclones;
• Screw classifier;
• Vacuum filters;
• Alum, lime and polymer addition;
• Jadar solids removal system;
• Stabilization ponds;
• pH addition;
• Emergency pond;
• Mix/reactor tanks;
• Thickener;
Multimedia filter
• Filter press, and
0 Flow measurement
The facility is located at the Quartz Feldspar Operation, off NC Highway 226, Spruce
Pine, Mitchell County, and;
2. Discharge process wastewater from mineral extraction of ore through outfall 001,
mine dewatering and/or overflow from facilities that recycle process wastewater
through outfall 002, and stormwater through outfalls HAW01, HAW03, and SC5
through SC8 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.

3
Permit NC0000175
PART I. SECTION D
EFFLUENT LIMITATIONS AND MONITORING REQUIREMENTS FOR MINE
DEWATERING WASTEWATER AND PROCESS WASTEWATER
1. Mine,Dewatering Wastewater (including Borrow Pits)
During the period beginning on the effective date of the permit and lasting until expiration, the
permittee is authorized to discharge mine dewatering wastewater controlled in accordance with
the conditions of this permit. Mine dewatering activities that have the potential to drain
wetlands must have secured and implemented an Operation and Monitoring Plan approved by
the Division. Operation and Monitoring Plans shall include, but are not limited to:
■ Groundwater monitoring strategies to demonstrate the effect of pumping and, as
necessary, establish the pumping regime necessary to reduce impacts.
■ Detailed plans to maintain the surrounding hydrology and the respective monitoring to
demonstrate compliance.'
Alternative site specific pumping and monitoring regimes may be approved by the Division on a
case-by-case basis.
The discharge of Mine dewatering wastewater that is directly pumped from the pit through an
erosion and sedimentation control structure prior to discharging to surface waters is not required
to receive an authorization to construct. Mine dewatering wastewater discharges which requires
additional treatment other than erosion and sedimentation control structures are subject to the
authorization to construct requirement.
Analytical monitoring of mine dewatering wastewater shall be performed as specified below in
Table 3. An exceedence of any of these limitations is a violation of the permit conditions and may
be.subject to enforcement action.
Table 3. Effluent Limitations and Monitoring Requirements for Mine Dewatering
Wastewater: Outfall 002
During the period beginning on the effective date of the permit and lasting until expiration,
the Permittee is authorized to discharge mine dewatering and/or overflow from facilities that
recycle process wastewater from outfall 002. Such discharges shall be limited and monitored
by the Permittee as specified below:
Parameter
:Effluent Limitations ,'k ;Moriitorn Re uireme°nts
1VIonthly:. Daly Maxunum Measurement Sample ' Sample
_ ti Average° Frequency Type Location
Total Flow' Effluent
Settleable Solids 0.1 ml/L 0.2 ml/L Monthly Grab Effluent
Turbidity 10 NTU Monthly Grab Effluent
Total Suspended Solids2 25:0 mg/L 45.0 mg/L Monthly Grab Effluent
pH >6.0 and<9.0 standard units Monthly Grab Effluent
Footnotes:
1. Total flow shall be continuous flow measurement.Alternatively,pump curves and pump logs may be
used as a means to calculate flow volume.
2. Total Suspended Solids limits for Industrial Sand Mining.

OF WAT�� I ae . asley,Governor
Q Sot t e of North Carolina
William G.Ross,Jr.,Secretary
���/// Department of Environment and Natural Resources
O .0 Coleen H.Sullins, Director
Division of Water Quality
February 11, 2008 �� r�
r----l�
11
Mr. Jeffrey S. Ferguson, P.E. EEE 7 4 2008
Unimin Corporation
136 Crystal Drive wFlT,,:r;QUALITY S -TGi�
Spruce Pine, North Carolina 28777 Af.UEVQ I_E �r'; �,�,;,` nr_ i
Subject: NPDES Permit Modification
NPDES Permit No.,..�N.-C) A"k5
Unimin Quartz/Feldspar Facility
Mitchell County
Dear Mr. Ferguson:
The Division of Water Quality (DWQ) has reviewed your request for.
modification of the subject permit by deletion of the effluent limits for the pesticides,
heptachlor and lindane. In the permit issued on November 1, 2006, supplemental
conditions allowed a review of twelve months of data to determine if reasonable
potential to exceed the allowable concentration still existed.
DWQ commends the efforts that Unimin has made to determine the source of
pesticides by working through Waste Reduction Partners. DWQ understands that
upstream land use (primarily Christmas tree farming) may be a contributing source.
A review of the discharge monitoring reports submitted to the Division of Water
Quality provided the data used in the updated reasonable potential analysis. Based
on results of the analyses, the following changes have been made to be permit:
■ The limit and monitoring for heptachlor has been deleted from the permit. All
reported values for heptachlor from November 2006 through November 2007
were below detection and indicated no reasonable potential to exceed the
allowable effluent concentration.
■ The limit for lindane has been deleted from the permit, however quarterly
monitoring has been required. The Division accepts the recommendation from
Waste Reduction Partners that the source of the pesticides in Unimin's effluent
is beyond the control of the facility. WRP indicates that the pesticide levels in
the intake water likely come from upstream Christmas tree farms but that these
levels should continue to diminish over time. However, since there are still
detectable amounts in Unimin's effluent, DWQ will recommend that quarterly
monitoring for lindane remain in the permit.
No other changes to the permit have been made.
1617 mail Service Center,Raleigh,North Carolina 27699-1617 Telephone[phone] FAX[phone] thCarolina
512 N.Salisbury Street,Raleigh,North Carolina 27604 On the Internet at http://h2o.enr.state.nc.us/ atkrall
An Equal Opponunfty/Affirmative Action Employer

Letter to Jeffrey S. Fergusor
page 2
Please find enclosed the amended effluent pages for outfall 001, which should
be inserted into your permit. The old pages should be discarded. 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. Please take notice that this permit is not transferable. Part II, E.4.
addresses the requirements to be followed in case of change in ownership or control of
this,discharge,Ij,
r, , a
If you have any questions or need additional information, please contact
Jacquelyn M. Nowell at telephone number [phone], extension 512.
Sincerely,
rColeen H. Sullins, Director
Attachments
cc: Central Files
he�ilLe_1ZegionalOffice-/Sur-face-Water-P-r-otection 5ipervisar
NPDES File
2

Permit Number NC0000175
PART I, SECTION A
A. (1). EFFLUENT LIMITATIONS AND MONITORING REQUIREMENTS-FINAL
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:
EFFLUENT LIMITATIONS Monitoring Requirements
Effluent. Monthly Daily Maximum Measurement Sample Sample
Characteristics Average Frequency Type Location'
Flow 3.6 MGD Continuous Recording I or E
Total Fluoride 109.0 lb/day 218.0 lb/day Daily, Composite E,U,D
Total Suspended 1320.0 lb/day 2640.0 lb/day Daily Composite E,U,D
Solids
Settleable Solids Daily Grab E
Turbidity2 Daily Grab E,U,D
pH3 Daily Grab E,U,D
Oil and Grease Monthly Grab E
Chloride4 Quarterly Composite E
Chronic Toxicitys Quarterly Composite E
Lindane6 Quarterly fGrab E,I
Notes:
1. Sample locations:E-Effluent,I-Influent,U Above the facility intake,D-Penland
bridge. Instream samples shall be grab samples and shall be conducted 3/week.
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 11%:January,April,July and October.See
Special Condition A (2).
6. See Special Condition A(7).
There shall be no discharge of floating solids or visible foam in other than trace amounts. .

Permit Number NC0000175
A. (7).LINDANE CONDITION
After twelve (12) months of sampling for lindane,Unimin may request in writing that the
Division review the data to determine if reasonable potential to exceed the allowable
concentration exists. If reasonable potential does not exist then the lindane limit may be
removed from the permit.
SECTION B. 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 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.

A�n ignmenta/Affairs-Department
nimin
� � C
Unimin Corporation _EA I _
136 Crystal Drive•Spruce Pine,NC 28777 I I
rY
(PHONE)828/766-6081•(FAQ 828/765-4755 4> JAN 2 3 2007
Iovember 2,2006
WATER QUALITY S-CTIOfJ
ASI IEVILLE REGIONIAL Or`
VE
CERTIFIED MAIL URETURN RECEIPT REQUESTED L 5
f Ms.Jackie Nowell NOV 8 2006
s E
NCDENR-Division of Water Quality
1617 Mail Service Center DENR-NTER QN LITY
.°(&T SOY"
Raleigh, North Carolina 27699-1617 -
Subject: Comments to NPDES Permit!NC00001�7
Unimin Corporation's Quartz/Feldspar Facility
Dear Ms. Nowell:
Please note the following.comments regarding permit limits imposed for Heptachlor
and Lindane contained in the NPDES Permit issued to Unimin Corporation's
Quartz/Feldspar Facility effective November 1, 2006 (cover letter dated September 26,
2006).
As stated in my comments to the draft permit, dated May 31,2006, Unimin protests
the imposition of effluent limitations for Lindane and Heptachlor due to the fact that any
positive analyses for.these pesticides is beyond our control. It is Unimin's understanding
that thesiv pesticides are used-by numerous local Christmas tree farms in the Mitchell,Avery
and Yancey County area. During the past two years we have continued to sample our intake
and effluent for each pesticide twice per month and have incurred a substantial cost for
doing so. Unimin contends'the sporadic'and limited results experienced to date support the
position that these chemicals do not originate on the Quartz — Feldspar Plant property.
Unimin believes these pesticides originate in storm water run-off from local tree farming
activity. As such,they are beyond Quartz—Feldspar Plant control.
Further to our earlier conversations, Unimin will contact the Office of Pollution
Prevention and Environmental Assistance in order to request assistance with this matter.
During the interim period, the Quartz — Feldspar Plant will continue to comply with
NPDES permit requirements; however, should permit limits for either Lindane and / or
Heptachlor be exceeded, they must be considered beyond Unimin control.
Unimin would appreciate an opportunity to work with the NCDENR.—Division of
Water Quality to mitigate this matter in a way that does not unduly impact Quartz —
Feldspar Plant operations. As such, Unimin's immediate plans are to follow NCDENR
recommendations and make every effort to conclude this matter to our mutual satisfaction.

r
f Ms.Jackie Nowell -
November 2,2006
Page 2
"Thank you very much for the opportunity to provide comments to the permit: If
you have any questions or require further information, please do not hesitate to contact me
at [phone] ext. 13.
Sincerely,
Jeffrey S. Ferguson,P. E.
Environmental Engineer
UNIMIIN CORPORATION
c: EA Files;Carl Horvat;Mitch Snyderman .
- - t

4 �F W AT,,-, Michael F.Easley,Governor
NorthblA a1,3 .i�."ULL'.v w K��,,��ilham=G Ross".lr''°SeBreta
' 'rolina Departmentof Envirorlmeut`and Natural Resouice`�
la i e � irectoer
�Divion t ualit I"
September 26, 2006OCT
1' s
Mr. Andrew G. Bradley
Unimin Corporation i
P.O. BOX 5H8 . WATER QUALITY SECTION
ASHEVILI_E REG;OiJAL OFFICE
Spruce Pine, North Carolina 28777
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V` .-. .-....... ...
Subject: NPDES errriit Issuance
NPDES Permit NC0'000=175
Unimin -Quartz Feldspar 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 3.6 MGD of treated
wastewater from the Quartz/Feldspar Facility.to the 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, oil
and grease, lindane, heptachlor'and chronic toxicity. .
The Division's request for the.results of a priority pollutant analysis has been
rescinded based on the information submitted in the facility's NPDES.application, Item V-
Part B.
The following modifications will be made to the permit:
® An effluent limit for heptachlor of 0.010 ug/1 will be-placed in the permit. The new
limit is more stringent based on protection of the North Carolina human health
standard for carcinogens instream. The results of the reasonable potential
analysis indicated the potential to exceed the allowable concentration. The effluent
data submitted indicated detections of heptachlor in November and December -
2004 and February 2005. There was no corresponding upstream detection of
heptachlor in any of the samples.
Please note the addition of a special condition concerning heptachlor. Within
twelve (12) months of sampling for heptachlor, Unimin may request in writing that, -
the Division review the data to determine if reasonable potential to exceed the
allowable concentration exists. If reasonable potential does not.exist.then the
Heptachlor limit may be removed from the permit.
None Caz tna
�ur !J
North Carolina Division of NVater 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] 1
An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer—50%Recycled/10%Post Consumer Paper

Letter to Mr. Bradley
Page 2 r
it was noted that the detection level for the permitted pesticides changed to a ,
higher level in 2005. Please note that North Carolina regulation 15A NCAC 2B.
0505 (e)(4) states; zi :,All test procedures must produce detection and reporting
levels that are below the permit discharge requirements and all data generated .
must be reported-to the approved.detection level or lower reporting level of the
procedure...."-
The Division-recommends that the Unimin Corporation contact the Division of
Pollution Prevention and Environmental Assistance and ask for a
consultation/inspection to help determine the source of the pesticides in Unimin's
effluent. The contact'phone`numbers are.[phone] or (800).763-0136.
• Influent and effluent monitoring for aldrin and methoxychlor will.be removed from
the permit based on results of RPA that showed there was no potential to exceed
the allowable concentration.
-,The following is a modification from the May 10th draft permit:
• Monthly monitoring for oil and grease will be reduced to quarterly based on
Unimin's information that oil and grease impact should be minimal., ..
The following will remain in the permit:
■ The request f6t.removal of the lindane.limit was reviewed and a`reasonable
potential analysis was conducted. Based on the results of that analysis, the .
effluent limit for H#dane of 0.090 ug/1 will not be removed from the permit: The
concentration of lidane indicated there was potential to exceed the allowable
concentration ins am.- -The effluent data submitted indicated detections of
lindane in August 2004 and December 2005. There was no corresponding
upstream deteciion`of lindane with:either sample. .
Please note-the addition of a special'condition concerning lindane. After twelve (12)
months of sampling for lindane, Unimin may request in writing that the Division
review the data to,determine if reasonable potential to exceed the allowable
concentration exists. If reasonable potential does not exist then the lindane limit
may be removed from the permit.
It was noted that the detection level for the permitted pesticides changed to a
higher level in 2005. Please note that North Carolina regulation 15A NCAC 2B.
0505 (e)(4) states, "....All test procedures must produce detection and reporting
-levels that are below the permit discharge requirements and all data generated
must be reported.to the approved detection level or lower reporting level of the
procedure......
The Division recommends that Unimin contact the Division of Pollution Prevention
and Environmental Assistance and ask for a consultation/inspection to help .
determine the source of the pesticides in Unimin's effluent. Contact phone
numbers are [phone] or [phone].

Letter to Mr. Bradley
Page 3
Please note that the receiving stream, 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 Corporation 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 fl-is 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,
(jz_ Kan . Klimek, P.E.
Attachments
cc: Asheville RegionalOffice/_Surfac_e_Water Protection Section
EPA Region IV/ Marshall Hyatt
Mr. Jeffrey Ferguson/ Unimin Corporation P.O. Box 588 Spruce Pine, NC 28777
Aquatic Toxicology
NPDES File/NC0000175
Central Files

- Permit Number NC0000175
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 and stormwater from a facility located at the ,
Quartz Feldspar Operation
off NC Highway 226
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,H, III, and IV hereof. ,
The permit shall become effective'November 1,2006.
This permit and the authorization to discharge shall expire at midnight on February 28,2011.
Signed this day September 26,2006.
�v Alan W.Klimek,Jr.,P.E.,Director
Division of Water Quality
By Authority of the
Environmental Management Commission

. . Permit Number NC0000175
SUPPLEMENT TO PERMIT COVER SHEET ,
All previous NPDES Permits issued to this facility, whetter 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
is hereby authorized to _
1: Continue operation of a.'wastewater treatment plant for process wastewater from
mineral extraction consisting.of:
Dewatering cyclones;
• Screw classifier;
.. Vacuum filters;
Alum,lime and polymer addition; ,
9 -jadar'solids "removal system,
Stabilization ponds;
• pH addition;
Emergency.pond,
• Mix/reactor tanks;
• Thickener;::
Multimedia filter
Filter press;and
Flow measurement
The facility is located at the Quartz Feldspar Operation,off NC Highway 226,Spruce
Pine,Mitchell County,and,
2-- Discharge wastewater(including mine dewaterm" through outfalls 001 and
HAW01,and stortnwater through outfalls 002,HAW03,and 5C5 through SC8 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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FacilityInformation Facility ,'ar
r Syr ..
latitude: 35°55'58" Sub-Basin: 04 03-06 Location "w ��. � „
Loneitude: 82°06'11" ar `
Quad#: Spruce Pine(D10NE)
Stream Class: C-Trout
�/ Unimin Corp-Quartz Fel,3sparFacility
Receiving Stream North Toe River
Permitted Flow: 3.6 MGD Nor[h NC County5
Mitcheellll

Permit Number NC0000175
PARYL SECTION A
A. (1). EFFLUENT LIMITATIONS AND MONITORING REQUIREMENTS-FINAL;
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:
„ �, � ,� �EFFLVENT LI1�4ITATI0�5 � Mon�tonng Requr�Ements
Monthly Dail Maxuium Measurement Sample Sample
T n • Z F
Character] tics' Fre uencT Locatzan�
• _........ r..,a.... .., <. ..�-..�, a...„a�.,..T.:.,.a.�.w,.,. 1 .a-a': a_.,,.„s,srT .:.�a......,.,r.H ns a.fa s, �F��
Flow 3.6 MGD Continuous Recording I or E
Total Fluoride 109.0 lb/day 218.0 lb/day Daily Composite E,U,D
Total Suspended 1320.0'lb/day 2640.0 lb/day Daily Composite E,U,D.
Solids
Settleable Solids Daily Grab E
Turbidity2 Daily Grab E,U;D
pH3 Daily Grab E,U,D
Oil and Grease Monthly Grab E
Chloride4. Quarterly Composite E
Chronic Toxicity5 Quarterly Composite E
Lindane6 0.09 ug/l 2/month Grab E,I
Heptachlor? 0.01 ug/l 2/month Grab E,I
Notes: .
1. Sample locations:E-Effluent,I-Influent,U—Above the facility intake,D--Penland .
bridge. Instream samples shall be grab samples and shall be conducted 3/week. . : .
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 11%:January,April,July and October. See
Special Condition A (2).
6. See Special Condition A (7).
7. See Special Condition A (8).
There shall be no discharge of floating solids or visible foam in other than trace amounts.

Permit Number NC0000175_
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 11%:.:•
The permitholder shall perform at a minimum,quarter_ly 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-February1998) 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 ToxicityTest 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.
JI
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 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.afterthe end of the reporting period for which the report is
made. : . '

Permit Number NC0000175
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.achiev' test conditions as specified in the cited document 'such as
t„i„i,;,um 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). TURBIDITY' .
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. (4). 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. (5). FLUORIDE 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:(6j. PERMIT MODIFICATIONS . `.
This permit shall 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.

Permit Number NC0000175
A. (7).LINDANE CONDITION
After twelve (12)months of sampling for lindane,Unimin may request in writing that the
Division review the data to determine if reasonable potential to exceed the allowable
concentration exists. If reasonable potential does not exist then the lindane limit may be
removed from the permit.
A. (8).HEPTACHLOR CONDITION
After twelve (12)months of sampling for heptachlor,Unirriin may request in writing that
the Division review the data to determine if reasonable potential'to exceed the allowable
concentration exists. If reasonable potential does not exist then the heptachlor limit may be
removed from the permit.
SECTION B. 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

1
. Permit Number NC0000 75
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
BM
Ps associated with the vehicle inaintenance.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
l.
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 perrrut
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.sedirnentation 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-t6 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 p ermittee shall, rovide 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 lockirig'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.
:

Permit Number NC000.0175
SECTION C: 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 4. All analytical monitoring shall be performed during a
representative storm"event as defined in Section F.Definitions.
In situations where s runoff tormwater runo 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 F.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 F, Definitions)without discharging.'A basin/ ..
pond meeting this provision is considered a non-discharging stormwater control

Permit Number NC0000175
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
Settleable Solids niVI Anniudly Grab SDO
"Total Suspended Sohds. . m9t7 Annually Crab SDO
Turbidity NTT Annually Grab SDO
Total Rainfalls inches. Annually -- --
Event Dmation4 minutes Annually I
Total Floiv4 MG .Arnivally -- 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 wiithin 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.

Permit Number NC0000175 -
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.
'fable 2:Qualitative Monitoring Requirements
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. ''`. ��iiL�l�C� +�' �����1'Gi117x 9�F4� e-0 �' �T'���.�� ',,�IiCJ6�7.•3�a ¢' ���i116�� .«�: _ -
-�,a"�'v.- i-ry �� &�, t a`F'•y��+ �°�*f +s �kM���.3,V� 7: ti s�. h,n�"7�,4>`,� '�s� �^L+6!a°x`�.£,�t x �,,.�}._0.„���u �� �S
trysty'y k� 7 k�}d � ✓�xx�w - t 'l" °ukax,e t is � ����;:. ��t`z s- '}? S � � ,nary �—p-� � '
color Semi- ual SDI?
Odor enii—Ammat SDO
Parity " it 71-. z]ulia SDO
FlOa6igg'sohds Senu A ntaal ;SDO
Suspended Soli&, Semi-:mual. SDO
Foam Sen-ii--Amual SDO
Oil Sheen era 7Ammu 1 SDt
Depositio at.or imn ediately below theMenu-Aiuival SDO
outfall
Erosion at or imnlediatelybdow the, enii-:Annual SD
nutf-tll.
Other obviousin.dicators Semi-Annual SDO
of storfn-water 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.

Permit Number NC0000175
SECTION D: EFFLUENT LIMITATIONS AND MONITORING REQUIREMENTS
FOR MINE DEWATERING WASTEWATER AND PROCESS
WASTEWATER
1. Mine Dewatering Wastewater (including Borrow Pits)
During the period beginning on the effective date of the permit and lasting until
expiration,the permittee is authorized to discharge mine dewatering wastewater
controlled in accordance with the.conditions of this permit.Mine dewatering activities
that have the potential to drain wetlands must have secured and implemented an
Operation and Monitoring'Plan approved by the Division. Operation and Monitoring
Plans shall include,but are not limited to:
■ Groundwater monitoring strategies to demonstrate the effect of pumping and, as
necessary, establish the pumping regime necessary to reduce impacts. '
Detailed plans to maintain the surrounding hydrology and the respective
monitoring to demonstrate compliance.
Alternative site specific pumping and monitoring regimes may be approved by the
Division on a case-by-case basis.
The discharge of Mine dewatering wastewater that is directly pumped from the pit
through an erosion and sedimentation control structure prior to discharging to surface
waters is not required to receive an authorization to construct. Mine dewatering
wastewater discharges which requires additional treatment other than erosion and
sedimentation control structures are subject to the authorization to construct
requirement.
Analytical monitoring of mine dewatering wastewater shall be performed as specified
below in Table 3. An exceedence of any of these limitations is a violation of the permit
conditions and maybe subject to enforcement action.

Permit Number NC0000175
Table 3.Effluent.Limitations and Monitoring Requirements for Mine Dewatering
Wastewater
Mine dewatering and/or overflow from facilities that recycle process wastewater shall be
limited and monitored by the permittee as specified below:
sx .
hem
k z E#fluentyLzm:6116ns , F x� Morutoring Requir ent
Dl$Charge F Monthly l�ailX Measurem�eni Sam Ie Samnle
ire uencv 1I e> Locations
Characfenstics r
L, a. Averd8e _ X 1$ 311T1L17
Total Flow2 E
Settleable Solids 0.1 ml/L 0.2 ml/L Monthly Grab E
Turbidity3 10 NTU Monthly Grab E
Total Suspended Monthly Grab E.
Solids4
pH5 I Monthly T Grab E
Footnotes:
1. Sample locations: E-Effluent
2. Total flow shall be-continuous flow measurement.Alternatively,pump curves and pump logs may be
used as a means to calculate flow volume.
3.Turbidity monthly average limitations: Trout waters 10 NTUs
4.Total Suspended Solids for Industrial Sand Mining shall be limited to a monthly average,, of 25 mg/1
and a daily maximum of 45mg/l.
5. The pH shall not be less than 6.0 standard units nor greater than 9.0 standard units in freshwaters.
2.BMP Conditions
a)The permittee shall utilize best management practices to ensure that contaminants
do not enter the surface waters as a result of blasting at the site.
b).The permittee shall obtain authorization from the Division of Water Quality prior
to utilizing any chemical additive for purposes of flocculation.
3.Residual Management
The residuals generated from treatment facilities used to meet the effluent limitations must
be disposed of in accordance with applicable standards and in a manner such as to prevent
any pollutants from such materials from entering waters of the state or navigable waters of
the United States.

r . Permit Number NC0000175.
There-shall be no discharge of floating solids or visible foam in.other"than trace
amounts.
SECTION E: 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 F: DEFINITIONS =
1. Representative Storm Event
A storm event that measures greater than 0.1 inches of rainfall and that ispreceded 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 maybe 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

DENR/DWQ
FACT SHEET FOR NPDES PERMIT DEVELOPMENT
NPDES No' NC0000F7,5- a
Facilt Iiforriaation
A hcant/Facili .Name Unimin Corporation-Quartz Feldspar Facility
A licantAddre§s r.' P.O.Box 588 Spruce Pine NC 28777
Facflit .Address:; %38 Highway 226 South Spruce Pine NC 28777
Permitted Flow..: 3.6 MGD
T "e of Waste: Industrial
Facht %Permit Status: Renewal
Facili Classification Physical/Chemical Class II
Coun Mitchell
Miscellaneous.
Receivin :Stream North Toe River Roiiibhal Office: Asheville
Stream Classification C Trout USG$;To o:Quad: D10NE
303(d)Listed?:, No* Permit Writer. Jackie Nowell
Subbasrn: 04-03-06 Date:;: 4/24/2006
Drainage Area'(,,mil) 133
Summer 7Q10,(cfs) 45
�-T7-3; a
x
Whiter 7Q10.(cfs) 55 �` M
...a' a
Avera e Flow(cfs) 270 .
IWC(%): 11%
Prim SIC C6de 1499 (Mining)
SUMMARY OF FACILITY INFORMATION AND WASTELOAD ALLOCATION
Unimin Corporation is requesting a permit renewal for its Quartz Feldspar facility. The Quartz
Feldspar facility does mining,milling,and separation of Alaskite ore to produce quartz,
feldspar, and mica. In May 2005,the plant announced its plans to reopen the high purity quartz
processing operations in the Quartz Feldspar plant. This process had been shut down since
1998 and only produced feldspar products.
The facility is permitted to discharge into the North Toe River,class C-Trout waters,in French
Broad River Basin. Outfall 001 discharges process water. Outfall 002 is a stormwater discharge
RECEIVING STREAM INFORMATION:
*The North Toe River is not listed on North Carolina's 2004-303(d) list,however it should be
noted that the 2005 French Broad River Basin Management Plan has a segment of the North Toe
River with a use support rating of Impaired based on turbidity and riparian area loss. The
segment also has a bioclassification rating of Fair(It is listed as biologically impaired on the
2006 Draft 303d list).
At this time,DWQ proposes no changes to the previously developed load allocations. Neither
the impairment nor the turbidity violation is directly attributable to the discharges. However,
the facility will be notified via the cover letter about potential impacts due to the Draft 303d list.
INSTREAM MONITORING:
Upstream: Upstream above the facility intake
Downstream:Downstream at Penland Bridge.
Parameters: Fluoride,Turbidity,pH
I.inimin C orpornti(mi-Qiiartz Feltismar[:'acility F ictsheet
NPDES Renmal
pao e l

of Christmas tree farms. Arun believes the pesticides are from rw oTf at the Christmas tree
farms. Unimin agreed to do additional instream sampling to test for pesticides to find the
source.
(See instream monitoring section above that noted only two hits of any pesticide detected in the
upstream samples.)
• Although the analysis of the following parameters did show reasonable potential to exceed
the chronic allowable concentrations,it should be noted all 27 data values reported were
below detection level. Based on their being no detection of these parameters,will
recommend removal of the monitoring requirement and no limit will be required:
Aldrin and Methoxychlor.
• The analysis of the following parameters did show reasonable potential to exceed the
freshwater human health standard. The maximum predicted values exceeded the chronic
allowable and per NCDWQ procedure,effluent limits will be recommended: Lindane
and Heptachlor.
See attached RPA analysis and data.
COMPLIANCE REVIEW:
Overall,facility has been in compliance with permit limits since issuance of 2004 permit. There
was one NOV.issued in August 2005,for violation of Fluoride daily maximum limit.
PROPOSED CHANGES:
• Limit for hndane of 0.09 ug/1 will be continued. Reasonable potential to exceed the
allowable concentration was shown.
• Limit for heptachlor of 0.010 ug/1 will be placed in the permit. New limit is more stringent
based on the human health standard of 0.000136 ug/1 which must be protected. RPA
showed potential to exceed the allowable chronic concentration.
• Influent and effluent monitoring for aldrin and methoxychlor will be removed from the
permit based on results of RPA that showed no potential to exceed the allowable chronic
concentration.
• Addition of monthly monitoring for oil and grease since it was noted as being present in the
effluent.
All other permit limits will remain the same.
PROPOSED SCHEDULE FOR PERMIT ISSUANCE:
Draft Permit to Public Notice: 04/26/2006
Permit Scheduled to Issue: 06/19/2006
Projected Effective Date of Permit: 08/01/2006
STATE CONTACT:
If you have any questions on any of the above information or on the attached permit, please
contact Jackie Nowell at(919) 733-5083 ext.512.
NAM `G DATE:
NPDES Renewal

A review of 2004 and 200eam data shows no exceedences of stream fluoride
standard of 1.8 mg/1. Upstream and downstream Fl samples averaged less than 1 mg/l.
Both upstream and downstream turbidity samples exceeded the standard in May,June and
September 2004 and in June through August 2005. The remaining months turbidity ranged
from 2.9 NTU to 10 NTU.
Both upstream and downstream TSS samples exceeded the standard in June and September
2004,and in June 2005. All other upstream and downstream samples of TSS met the standard
of 30 mg/l.
Instream and effluent sampling of the four pesticides,aldrin,lindane,heptachlor,and
methoxychlor were a requirement of the 2004 permit. Pesticide data was reviewed from 8/2004
to 12/2005. Review of upstream sampling for aldrin,lindane,heptachlor,and methoxychlor.
■ Heptachlor was detected upstream on 8/16/2004(0.027 ug/1),however was not
detected in the effluent.
■ Heptachlor detected upstream on 9/21/2004(0.020 ug/1),and detected in the effluent
(0.056 ug/1)
These were the only instances of any of the four pesticides being detected upstream of the
Quartz plant. It should be noted that EPA Method 608 used had a detection level of 0.025 ug/l
for aldrin,lindane and heptachlor,however in March and April 2005,the lab starting having a
higher detection level for the pesticides-aldrin—0.025 ug/l,lindane—0.090 ug/l,and
heptachlor-0.040 ug/l. No explanation provided,except that organics tested at another lab
(Pace Analytical,Charlotte).
TOXICITY TEST RESULTS:
Quarterly Chronic P/F, 11%Ceriodaphnia test(JAN APR JUL OCT)
Facility passed all eight tox tests from January 2004 through October 2005. .
Recommendation: Renewal of quarterly chronic test @ 11%
ANALYSIS OF EFFLUENT DATA:
The following parameters are noted in the application as present in the effluent:
Sulfate,Fluoride,Aluminum, Oil &Grease,and Heptachlor
■ Fluoride limits are already in the permit and will remain based on the mining process
used and fluoride allocations for the North Toe River.
■ Oil and Grease—recommend monthly monitoring to determine if limitation will be
needed in future permit.
■ Heptachlor-see RPA analysis
■ Sulfate-NC Standard is applicable only to WS class streams,will not recommend
monitoring since the North Toe River is C Trout class stream.
■ Aluminum-because of high concentration of Al in NC soils and sediment,will not
recommend monitoring or limits.
The last priority pollutant scan was run in Feb.2004. Facility did not submit data for new
PPA,will notify plant that scan is needed.
Reasonable Potential Analysis
Data values for aldrin,lindane,heptachlor, and methoxychlor were submitted based on
monitoring requirements of the 2004 permit. It is unusual for pesticides to be discharged from
this type of industry. Unimin personnel seem to think that the pesticides are in the facility
intake water. This water is withdrawn from the North Toe River and the intake is downstream
Unitnin corporation.—Quartz Feldspar Facility FiaCtsheet
NPDES Renewal
Pace

NAME: DATE: G Ck 10 6
WQ SUPERVISOR: DATE:
NPDES SUPERVISOR COMMENT:
NAME: DATE:
T.ni? in Corporation -Quartz Feldspar F'aciiity E'aetsheet
ac4

R NASLE POTENTIAL ANALY IS
SO
Unimin - Quartz /Feldspar Plant Outfall 001
NC0000175 Ow = 3.6 MGD
Time Period 2004-2005
Qw(MGD) 3.6 WWTP Class IV
7Q 10S(cfs) 45 1WC(%)@ 7Q 10S 11.032
7Q10W(cfs) 55 @ 7Q10W 9.211
30Q2(cfs) 0 @ 30Q2 N/A
Avg.Stream Flow,QA(cfs) 270 @ QA 2.0248
Rec'ving Stream North Toe River Stream Class C-Trout
STANDARDS&
PARAMETER TYPE CRITERIA(2) POL Units REASONABLE POTENTIAL RESULTS RECOMMENDED ACTION
(�) NCWDS/ %FAV/ n NDet MaxPredCw AllowableCw
Chronic Acute
Acute: N/A All values below detection Max pred Value>chronic alloy
am
Aldrin C 0.136 ng/L 27 0 12.500 _ _ _ _ _ No limit or monitoring recomrended z'
Chronic: 6.71665
Acute: N/A Max predicted is greater than chronic allowable Based on e
Lindane NC 0.010 ug/L 27 2 0.752 _ _ _ _ 2 hds°iii 2004 andDec,2005 Re`commentl hmd"of 0 D9�ugl
Chronic: 0.091 h
.1 lh
Acute: N/A Max predicted is greateY than chronic allowable
Heptachlor C 0.214 ng/L 27 5 241.000 ...........
Last hiY,m 2/2005".Recommend hmd of 0 010 ug/I
Chronic: 10.5688 —
Acute: N/A All values below detection h Max pred Value>chronc allow
� x r
Methoxychlor NC 0.030 ug/L 27 0 0.315 montYon g recommended
Chronic: 0.272
*Legend. "Freshwater Discharge
C=Carcinogenic
NC=Non-carcinogenic
A=Aesthetic
nc0000175rpa2006updt,rpa
4/24/2006

REASONABLE POTENTIAL ANALYSIS
Heptachlor Methoxychlor
Date Data BDL=1/2DL Results Date Data BDL=1/2DL Results
1 Aug 2004 25 0 12.500 Std Dev. 17.5164 1 Aug 2004 >0 25'= 0.125 Std Dev. 0.0236
2 2E01 12.500 Mean 23.3519 2 sc 025 0.125 Mean 0.1348
3 Sep2004 � y0010 100.000 C.V. 0.7501 3 025 0.125 C.V. 0.1747
4 -Sep 2004 +6 56F0 56.000 n 27 4 5� 0 25 0.125 n 27
12.500 5 <a 0 25' 0.125
6 25 Oi 12.500 Mult Factor= 2.4100 6 f 0 25j 0.125 Mult Factor= 1.2600
7 `Nov 2004E29 0' 29.000 Max.Value 100.000 ng/L 7 z 0 25, 0.125 Max.Value 0.250 ug/L
8 Dec 2004 Y t `27 0' 27.000 Max.Pred Cw 241.000 ng/L 8 0 25 0.125 Max.Pred Cw 0.315 ug/L
9 Dec 2004 26.000 9 % 025 0.125 -
10 z E 25 0; 12.500 10 0 25'_, 0.125
11 z 25 0 12.500 11 z � 0 25 0.125
12 25 0 12.500 12 z 0 25 0.125
13 }c 50 0, 25.000 13 z 0 50V 0.250
14 c 40 0 20.000 14I m� c 0 27x 0.14
15 40,0? 20.000 15 z 0.27 0.14
16 40 0° 20.000 16 027, 0.14
17 40 0 20.000 17 0 27, 0.14
20.000 18 0 27 0.14
19 { 40 0" 20.000 19 r 0 27 0.14
20 z 40 0; 20.000 20 � t 0 27.' 0.14
21 c x 40 0` 20.000 21 z� z 0 2T 0.14
22 �z 400 20.000 22 sk0.27 0.14
23 �cI r 40 0z 20.000 23x ye J 'x 0 27= 0.14
24 40 b 20.000 24'x e ' 0 27' 0.14
25 z� 40 0 20.000 25 5 0 27! 0.14
26 40 0 20.000 26 x z 0 27 0.14
27 � 40 0 20.000 27 V.27 0.14
28 28
29 29 ;fit
30 . . .... . .. �;Yr 30
nc0000175rpa2006updt,data
-2- 4/24/2006

REASONABLE POTENTIAL ANALYSIS
Aldrin Undane
Date Data BDL=1/2DL Results Date Data BDL=1/2DL Results
1 Aug 2004` s 25 0 12.5 Std Dev. 0.0000 1 Aug 2004 ( ,db3 ii 0.031 Sid Dev. 0.0415
2 c -25°0 12.5 Mean 12.5000 2 y < 0025 0.013 Mean 0.0374
3 12.5 C.V. 0.0000 3 0 025 0.013 C.V. 1.1121
4 ry25 0.', 12.5 n 27 4 ° xF 0- 0 025 0.013 n 27
5 ` ^' 250 12.5 5 ie 0.013
6 �s c { 25 0 12.5 Mu It Factor= 1.0000 6 < 0 025 0.013 Mult Factor= 3.2700
7 '3 �25 0 12.5 Max.Value 12.500 ng/L 7 s fi c 0 025: 0.013 Max.Value 0.230 ug/L
12.5 Max.Pred Cw 12.500 ng/L 8 ° c 0 025,; 0.013 Max.Pred Cw 0.752 ug/L
9V sr 25 0> 12.5 9 s x 0 025 0.013
10 25 0: 12.5 10 c 0 025' 0.013
11 12.5 11 s`s n 0 025 0.013
12r 12.5 12 ' 0 025 0.013
13 N1ar72005 z < 25x0 12.5 13 Q 0.050, 0.025
14 a 25 0; 12.5 14 k k�t 0,090 0.045
15 25 0`, 12.5 15 e 0 090 0.045
16 25 0 12.5 16 �° `?';� 0 090 0.045
17 < 25 0 12.5 17 0 090,�� 0.045
18 t< 25 0 12.5 18 Ln, c 0 090 0.045
19 s425 0� 12.5 19 ' �6690';! 0.045
20, s _�� 25 0 12.5 20 ' ." , 0 090* 0.045
21 25 0 12.5 21 s <� 0.090" 0.045
12.5 22 e 0 090 0.045
4 3 25 0 12.5 23, 0 090.-; 0.045
0: 12.5 24 ��x 0 090��; 0.045
25 i 25 0. 12.5 25 # 4s 0.0904 0.045
26 r'l x �< 25 0, 12.5 26 < 0 090; 0.045
25 0; 12.5 27 Dec 2005 "0 230 0.230
28 t� 28
29 r z a 29 r q 4 r
nc0000175rpa2006updt,data
1- 4/24/2006

WDENR
North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources
Division of Water Quality
Beverly Eaves Perdue Charles Wakild, P. E. -Dee Fr6einari `
Governor Directorcrfa
April 30,2012 1 MAY o 3 2012
Mr.Jeffrey .-Ferguson,P.E. -- }
J y S �son WATER QUALITY SECTION s..
Unimin Corporation AS`-,-VILLF R.-2;ONAL OFFICE
P.O. Box 588
Spruce Pine,NC 28777 - - -
Subject: NPDES Permit Issuance
Permit No. NC0000175
Unimin Corporation-Quartz/Feldspar 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 151 2007(or as subsequently amended).
The permit authorizes Unimin Corporation to discharge up to 3.6 MGD of treated
process wastewater from Quartz%Feldspar 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.
The following modifications remain in the final permit:
• The facility address has been updated to 7638 South 226 Highway,Spruce Pine,
NC.
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.om One
An Equal Opportunity\Affirmative Action Employer NorthCarohna
�atu��rll�.

Mr.Ferguson
April 30,2012
Page 2 of 3
• Oil and grease monitoring will no longer be required based on the results of
submitted data.
• The turbidity footnote on the effluent page has minor language clarification.
• The monitoring frequency for total fluoride,total suspended solids,turbidity,
settleable solids and pH was reduced to weekly.
• Language on the permit cover page regarding the discharge of stormwater was
removed.
;Language on the supplement to cover permit page regarding the discharge of
mine dewatering effluent and stormwater was removed. The Quartz/Feldspar
Facility will be issued an individual stormwater permit to address stormwater
management and monitoring. In addition,the entire section(Part II in the
previous permit) regarding stormwater monitoring,controls and limitations for
permitted discharges was removed from the permit
• Language in Condition A.2. Chronic Toxicity Permit Limit was modified and a
new paragraph regarding data submittal was added (the second paragraph from
the end of the condition).
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.

Mr.Ferguson
April 30,2012
Page 3 of 3
If you have any questions or need additional information,please contact Ms.Jacquelyn
Nowell at telephone number(919) 807-6386.
'lar'esi rely,
l Wakild,P.E.
Attachments
cc: sheville Regional Office/Surface Water Protection Section(ecopy)
Aquatic Toxicology(ecopy)
NPDES File
Central Files

Permit Number NC0000175
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 the
Quartz/Feldspar Facility
7638 South 226 Highway
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.
The permit shall become effective June 1,2012.
This permit and the authorization to discharge shall expire at midnight on February 28,2016.
Signed this day April 30,2012.
Charles Wakild,P.E.,Director
Division of Water Quality
By Authority of the
Environmental Management Commission

Permit Number NC0000175
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
is hereby authorized to: ,
1. Continue operation of a wastewater treatment plant for process wastewater from
mineral extraction consisting of:
• Dewatering cyclones;
• Screw classifier;
• Vacuum filters;
• Alum,lime and polymer addition;
• Jadar solids removal system;
• Stabilization ponds;
• pH addition;
• Emergency pond;
• Mix/reactor tanks;
• Thickener;
• Multimedia filter
• Filter press,and
• Flow measurement
The facility is located at the Quartz/Feldspar Facility, 7638 South 226 Highway,
Spruce Pine,Mitchell County,and;
2. Discharge wastewater through Outfall 001 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.

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Facility Information Facility
�i
Latitude: 35°55' 58" Sub-Basin: 04-03-06 Location =
Longitude: 82206' 11" HUC#: 06010108
Quad#: Spruce Pine (D10NE)
Stream Class: C-Trout Unimin Corp-Quartz Feldspar Facility
Receiving Stream: North Toe River North NC0000175
Permitted Flow: 3.6 MGD Mitchell Count

Permit Number NC0000175
A. (1). EFFLUENT LIMITATIONS AND MONITORING REQUIREMENTS-FINAL
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:
4 V EFFL { NT I,IMITATIONSr �F Morutoruig4Red ements R
Effluent^ lYIonthly w DailyMaximuun Measurement Samyle :`Samyle
Characteristics s P,verae Frequency Tune { Locat<on1
,v
Flow 3.6 MGD Continuous Recording I or E
Total Fluoride 109.0 lb/day 218.0 lb/day Weekly Composite E,.U,D
Total Suspended 1320.0 lb/day 2640.0 lb/day Weekly Composite E, U,D
Solids
Settleable Solids Weekly Grab E
Turbidity2 Weekly Grab E, U,D
pH3 Weekly Grab E,U,D
Chloride4 Quarterly Composite E
Chronic Toxicity5 Quarterly Composite E
Notes:
1. Sample locations:E-Effluent,I-Influent,U-Above the facility intake,D-Penland
bridge. 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. (3).
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 11%:January,April,July and October. See
Special Condition A. (2).
There shall be no discharge of floating solids or visible foam in other than trace amounts.

Permit Number NC0000175
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 11%.
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 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: NC DENR/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

Permit Number NC0000175
A. (2). CHRONIC TOXICITY PERMIT LIMIT (QRTRLY) (cont.)
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.
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.

Permit Number NC0000175
A. (3). TURBIDITY
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. (4). 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. (5). FLUORIDE 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. (6).PERMIT MODIFICATIONS
This permit shall 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.

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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 properly 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 1319(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 II 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.Furthermore,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 right's,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 15013-23].
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 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 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].
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
122.221
d. Certification.Any person signing a document under paragraphs a. or b. of this section shall make the following
certification[40 CFR 122.22].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 offines 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 II,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
It shall not be a defense for a Permittee in an enforcement action that it would have been necessary to halt or
t
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(m)(3)]
(1) Anticipated bypass.If the Pennittee 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 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 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. Monitorinjz 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 122.41(j)].
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 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 122.411.
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
122.411.
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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 Permittec 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 ig 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(1)(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)5 122.611 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 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 122.41(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 IV.C.2.c. of this permit.
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.
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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 planes 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 143-215.1(a5) [SL 2011-394],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 II 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. [15A 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. [15A 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[I5A 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(SIU); 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.
I. 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)]
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(SIU),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 403.9]
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 122.44]. 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
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enforceable Pretreatment Standards as defined by 40 CFR 403.3(1). [15A NCAC 02H.0903(b)(10), .0905, and
.0906(b)(4)]
5. Industrial,User Pretreatment Permits("T P)&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 collection system or 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,HWA and the limits
from all IUDs.Permitted IUP loadings for each parameter.cannot exceed the treatment capacity of the POTW as
determined by the,HWA.:[I5A NCAC 02H .0906(b)(6), .0909, .0916,and.0917;40 CFR 403.5,403.8(f)(1)(iii);
NCGS 143-215.67(a)j
6. Authorization to Construct(AtQ
The Permittee shall ensure that an Authorization to.Construct permit(AtQ is issued to all applicable Industrial
Users for the construction or modification of any pretreatment facility. Prior tol 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. [15A NCAC 02H .0906(b)(7)and.0905;NCGS 1.43-
215.1(a)(8)]
7. POTW Inspection&Monitoring of their IUs,
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. [15A NCAC 02H.0908(e);40 CFR 403.8(f)(2)(v)] The.
Permittee must:
a. Inspect alLSignificant Industrial Users(SIUs)at least once per calendar year;.
b. Sample all Significant Industrial Users(SIUs)at least once per calendar year for all SIU permit-limited
parameters 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. III 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 021-1.0906(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(ERP)
The Permittee shall enforce and obtain appropriate remedies:for violations of all pretreatment standards
promulgated pursuant to section 307(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.All remedies, enforcement actions and other, shall be consistent with the Enforcement Response
Plan(ERP),approved by.the Division. [I5A NCACI 02H.0903'(b)(7);,.0906(b)(8)and.0905;40 CFR 403.8(f)(5)j
10. Pretreatment Annual Reports(PAR)
The Permittee shall report to the Division in accordance with 15A NCAC 02H.0908, hi lieu of submitting annual,
reports,Modified Pretreatment Programs developed under 15A NCAC 02H 0904(b)may 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 Penrittee shall submit two copies of`a Pretreatment Annual Report.
(PAR)describing its pretreatment activities over the previous calendar year to the Division at the following
address:
Version 1110912011'

NPDES Permit Standard Conditions
Page 18 of 18
NC DENR/Division of Water Quality/Surface Water Protection Section
Pretreatment,Emergency Response,,and Collection Systems(PERCS)Unit
161.7 Mail Service Center
Raleigh,North Carolina 27699-1617
These reports shall be submitted by March l 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;
e. Significant Non-Compliance Report,(SNCR)
A list of industrial Users(IUs)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 Summary Forms IDSF)
Monitoring data from samples collected by both the POTW and the Significant Industrial Users(SIUs). These.
analytical results must be reported on Industrial Data Summary Forms(IDSF)or on other forms or in a format
provided by the Division;
e. Other Information
Copies of the POTW's allocation table,new or modified enforcement compliance schedules,public notice of
IUs in SNC,a summary of data or other information related to significant noncompliance determinations for
IUs that are not considered SIUs,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 Pennittee shall publish annually a list of Industrial Users(lUs)that were in significant noncompliance(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. [15A NCAC 02H_0903(b)(34), .0908:(b)(5)and.0905 and 40 CFR
403,.8(f)(2)(viii)]
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 and shall retain all other Pretreatment Program records as required by 15A NCAC 02H .0908(f). [15A
NCAC 02H.0908(f);40 CFR 403.12(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 inspectionJ 1 5A NCAC 02H
.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 of their Significant Industrial Users(SIUs),and Monitoring Plan modifications,,shall be considered a
permit.modification and shall be governed by 40 CFR 403.18, 15 NCAC 02H.0114 and 15A NCAC 02H,0907.
Version 1110912011

4 /
NCDENR
North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources
Division of Water Quality
Pat McCrory Charles Wakild, P. E. John E. Skvarla, III
Governor Director Secretary
�I
March 11,2013
MAR 1 8 2013
Mr.Jeffrey S.Ferguson,P.E.
Unimin Corporation DWQ/Surface Watcr Protection Section
P.O.BOX 588 Ashes ille Regional Office
Spruce Pine,NC 28777
Subject: NPDES Permit Correction
Permit No.NC0000175
Unimin Corporation-Quartz/Feldspar 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:91 M07-6492
Internet:vvww.ncwaterguality.orq �TOne
An Equal Opportunity 1 Affirmative Action Employer 1"y ofthCarohn
,XaAmA y

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 may be required.
If you have any questions or need additional information,please contact Ms.Jacquelyn
Nowell at telephone number(919) 807-6386.
Sincerely,
- � Charles Wakild,P.E.
Attachments
cc: Asheville Regional Office/Surface Water Protection Section(ecopy) ,
Aquatic Toxicology(ecopy)
NPDES File
Central Files

Permit Number NC0000175
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 the
Quartz/Feldspar Facility
7638 South 226 Highway
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.
The permit shall become effective June 1,2012.'
This permit and the authorization to discharge shall expire at midnight on February 29,2016.
Signed this day April 30,2012.
Jy" j�harles Wakild,P.E.,Director
. Division of Water Quality
By Authority of the
Environmental Management Commission

Permit Number NC0000175
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
is hereby authorized to:
1. Continue operation of a wastewater treatment plant for process wastewater from
mineral extraction consisting of:
• Dewatering cyclones;
• Screw classifier;
• Vacuum filters;
• Alum,lime and polymer addition;
• Jadar solids removal system;
• Stabilization ponds;
• pH addition;
• Emergency pond;
• Mix/reactor tanks;
• Thickener;
• Multimedia filter
• Filter press,and
• Flow measurement
The facility is located at the Quartz/Feldspar Facility, 7638 South 226 Highway,
Spruce Pine,Mitchell County, and;
2. Discharge wastewater through Outfall 001 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.

PAT MCCRORY
Governor
DONALD R. VAN DER VAART
.� Secretary
Water Resources S. JAY ZIMMERMAN
ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY
Director
May 12, 2016
Daniel Garland
Unimin Corporation
•��� PO Box 588
Spruce Pine,NC 28777
SUBJECT: Compliance Evaluation Inspection
Quartz Operation
Permit No: NC0000175
Mitchell County
Dear Mr. Garland:
Enclosed please find a copy of the Compliance Evaluation Inspection form from the inspection conducted on
March 15, 2016. Present during the inspection were Jeff Ferguson with Unimin and Shawna Riddle with
DEMLR. The facility is presently operating at minimal capacity. There were some items noted during the
inspection that need your attention. Please refer to the enclosed inspection report for these observations and
comments. If you or your staff have any questions,please call me at 828-296-4500.
Sincerely,
—/-4,�A
Linda Wiggs
Environmental Senior Specialist
Asheville Regional Office
Enc.
cc: Jeff Ferguson,(e-copy)
Shawna Riddle(e-copy) v'
MSC 1617-Central Files-Basement
;Asheuille-F1'es--
G:\WR\WQ\Mitchell\Wastewater\Industrial\Unimin Quartz Feldspar 00175\CEI.03-15-2016.Ltr.Resend.docx
State of North Carolina I Environmental Quality I Water Resources
2090 U.S.Highway 70 Swannanoa,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 expires8-31-98
Section A:National Data System Coding(i.e.,PCS)
Transaction Code NPDES yr/mo/day Inspection Type Inspector, Fac Type
2 15 1 3 I NC0000175 I11 12 16/03/15 17 18 ICI 19 I s I 201
21I16
Inspection Work Days Facility Self-Monitoring Evaluation Rating 131 QA ------Reserved-------
67 70IJ 71 I I 72 LL _I� � 73I 1 174 751 I I I I I I 180
Section B:Facility Data I I I
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) 01:00PM '16/03/15 12/06/01
Quartz Operation
NC Hwy 226 N Exit Time/Date Permit Expiration Date
Spruce Pine NC 28777 02:OOPM 16/03/15 16/02/28
Name(s)of Onsite Representative(s)/Tities(s)/Phone and Fax Number(s) Other Facility Data
Name,Address of Responsible Official/Title/Phone and Fax Number
Contacted
Elmer D Garland,PO Box 588 Spruce Pine NC 28777//828-765-4283/
Yes
Section C:Areas Evaluated During Inspection(Check only those areas evaluated)
Permit Flow Measurement Operations&Maintenance 0 Facility Site Review
Efnuent/Receiving Waters Storm Water
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 Wi gsj ARO WQ//828-296-4500 Ext4653/
Signature of Management Q A Reviewer Agency/Office/Phone and Fax Numbers Date
o ,
EPA Form 3560-3(Rev 9-94)Previous editions are obsolete.
Page# 1

NPDES yr/mo/day Inspection Type (Cont.)
31 NC0000175 I1 12 . 16/03/15 17 18 ICI
Section D:Summary of Finding/Comments(Attach additional sheets of narrative and checklists as necessary)
Present during the inspection were Shawna Riddle(DEMLR), Jeff Ferguson and Daniel Garland with
Unimin.
Permit:
The permit expired February 29, 2016. Unimin has submitted a renewal application.
Site Evaluation:
The processing facility was not in operation at the time of the inspection, so a complete inspection
could not be performed. The ORC is running the wastewater treatment plant intermittently to treat the
stormwater from the lagoon and there is also a laboratory onsite that is discharging to the system.
There were areas noted that need to be addressed immediately and prior to the wastewater treatment
plant being brought back online to receive processing water. Several components need to be evaluated
for operation and maintenance;the clarifiers showed signs of rust and there were substantial solids in
various components of the wastewater treatment system that need to be removed.A particularly
crucial area of solids that needs to be removed is the elongated concrete basin under the building.This
is particularly crucial and will be a high maintenance area because the stream (Little Bear Creek) also
flows under this building. This is a very dated design that needs special attention to avoid the potential
of solids being lost to the stream. This basin had excessive solids in it that need to be removed
immediately. Prior to this facility processing again this open channel should be evaluated for an
enclosed design.
Stormwater:
A General Stormwater Permit was issued (NCG020793).This SW Permit covers both the mine and
the processing facility.A Spill Prevention Plan specific to the Processing Plant should be developed
and implemented.
Page# 2

Permit: NC0000175 Owner-Facility: Quartz Operation
Inspection Date: 03/15/2016' Inspection Type: Compliance Evaluation
Operations& Maintenance Yes°No NA NE
Is the plant generally clean with.acceptable,housekeeping?:. . . ,LL❑ ❑ ❑
Does the facility analyze process control parameters,for ex: MLSS, MCRT,Settleable ❑ ❑ ❑
r
Solids, pH,,DO, Sludge Judge, and other that are applicable?
Comment:
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?., ❑,. E],.❑::
#Are there any special conditions for the permit? ❑ ❑ ❑
Is access to the plant site restricted to the general public? M ❑ ❑ ❑
Is the inspector granted access to all areas for inspection? 0 ❑ ❑ ❑
Comment:
Secondary Clarifier Yes No-.NA NE
Is the clarifier free of black and odorous wastewater? 0 ❑ ❑ ❑
Is the site free of excessive buildup of solids in center well of circular,elarifier?.. _:❑ ❑ .,❑
Are weirs level? ❑ '❑ ❑`M .
Is the site free of weir blockage? ❑ ❑ ❑ M
Is the site free of evidence of short-circuiting? ❑ ❑ ❑ 0
Is scum removal adequate? ❑ ❑ ❑ 0
Is the site free of excessive floating sludge? M ❑ ❑ ❑
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 Y<of the sidewall depth) ❑ ❑ ❑
Comment: The processing plant is not in operation Prior to processing resuming at this facility the
clarifiers should be thoroughly evaluated for maintenance needs.
Solids need to be removed.
Lagoons Yes No NA NE
Type of lagoons?
#Number of lagoons in operation at time of visit? 6
Are lagoons operated in?
#Is a re-circulation line present? ❑ ❑ ❑
Page# 3

{
Permit: NC0000175 Owner-Facility: Quartz Operation
Inspection Date: 03/15/2016 Inspection Type: Compliance Evaluation
Lagoons Yes No NA NE
Is lagoon free of excessive floating materials? 0 ❑ ❑ ❑
#Are baffles between ponds or effluent baffles adjustable? ❑ ❑ M ❑
Are dike slopes clear of woody vegetation? ❑ ❑ ❑
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? ❑ ❑ ❑
Is the lagoon free of short circuiting? ❑ ❑ ❑
Comment: Stormwater is directed to the lagoon.
Flow Measurement- Effluent Yes No NA NE
#Is flow meter used for reporting? ❑ ❑ ❑
Is flow meter calibrated annually? ❑ ❑ ❑
Is the flow meter operational? ❑ ❑ ❑
(If units are separated) Does the chart recorder match the flow meter? ❑ ❑ ❑
Comment:
Page# 4

PAT MCCRORY
j Governor
DONALD R. VAN DER VAART
Secretary
WaterResources S. JAY ZIMMERMAN
ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY
Director 1
April 28, 2016
J
Darnel Garland
Unimin Corporation �, A
Spruce Pine,NC 28777
SUBJECT: Compliance Evaluation Inspection
Quartz Operation
Permit No: NC0000175
Mitchell County
Dear Mr. Garland:
Enclosed please find a copy of the Compliance Evaluation Inspection form from the inspection conducted on
March 15, 2016. Present during the inspection were Jeff Ferguson with Unimin and Shawna Riddle with
DEMLR. The facility is presently operating at minimal capacity. There were some items noted during the
inspection that need your attention. Please refer to the enclosed inspection report for these observations and
comments. If you or your staff have any questions, please call me at 828-296-4500:.
Sincerely,
/vt�
Linda Wiggs
Environmental Senior Specialist
Asheville Regional Office
Enc.
cc: Jeff Ferguson,(e-copy)
Shawna Riddle(e-copy)
MSC 1617-Central Files-Basement
Asheville Files
G:\WR\WQ\Mitchell\Wastewater\Industrial\Unimin Quartz Feldspar 00175\CEI.03-15-2016.Ltr.docx
State of North Carolina I Environmental Quality I Water Resources
2090 U.S.Highway 70 Swannanoa,NC 28778
828 296 4500

z4 .
PAT MCCRORY
Governor
DONALD R. VAN DER VAART
I L
Secretary
Water Resources S. JAY ZIMMERMAN
ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY '
Director
April 28, 2016
C
aniel Garland
nimin Corporation638 S. 226 Hwypruce Pine,NC 28777
SUBJECT: omp iance Evaluation Inspection
Quartz Operation
Permit No:NC0000175
Mitchell County
Dear Mr. Garland:
Enclosed please find a copy of the Compliance Evaluation Inspection form from the inspection conducted on
March 15, 2016. Present during the inspection were Jeff Ferguson with Unimin and Shawria Riddle with
DEMLR. The facility is presently operating at minimal capacity. There were some-items noted during the
inspection that need your attention. Please refer to the enclosed inspection report for these 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.
cc: Jeff Ferguson, (e-copy)
Shawna Riddle(e-copy)
MSC 1617-Central Files-Basement
�-A�sizeuille`Files° -
G:\WR\WQ\Mitchell\Wastewater\Industrial\Unimin Quartz Feldspar 00175\CEI.03-15-2016.Ltr.docx
State of North Carolina Environmental Quality I Water Resources
2090 U.S.Highway 70 Swannanoa,NC 28778
828 296 4500
a

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 1 3 I NC0000175 111 12 16/03/15 _1
17 18 Lcj 19 I G I 20 LJ
21�I
Inspection Work Days Facility Self-Monitoring Evaluation Rating B1 QA Reserved----
67 70Iu L—
I 71 I I 72. r, � 73I I I74 751 I I I I I � I80
Section B:Facility Dlata. LJ LEI
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)
01:OOPM 16/03/15 12/06/01
Quartz Operation
Exit Time/Date Permit Expiration Date
NC Hwy 226 N
Spruce Pine NC 28777 02:00PM 16/03/15 16/02/28
Name(s)of Onsite Representative(s)/Titles(s)/Phone and Fax Number(s) Other Facility Data
Name,Address of Responsible OfficiaUiitle/Phone and Fax Number
Contacted
Elmer D Garland,PO Box 588 Spruce Pine NC 28777//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 Storm Water
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
Lindainda SL'9� ARO WQ!/828-296-4500 Ext.4653/
r
Signature of Management Q A Reviewer Agency/Office/Phone and Fax Numbers bate
�.
EPA Form 3560-3(Rev 9-94)Previous editions are obsolete.
t
Page# 1
:i
i

NPDES yr/mo/day Inspection Type (Cont.) 1
31 NC0000175 I11 12 - 16/03/15 17 18 1 C 1
Section D:Summary of Finding/Comments(Attach additional sheets of narrative and checklists as necessary)
Present during the inspection were Shawna Riddle(DEMLR), Jeff Ferguson and Daniel Garland with
Unimin.
Permit:
The permit expired February 29, 2016. Unimin has submitted a renewal application.
Site Evaluation:
The processing facility was not in operation at the time of the inspection, so a complete inspection
could not be performed.The ORC is running the wastewater treatment plant intermittently to treat the
stormwater from the lagoon and there is also a laboratory onsite that is discharging to the system.
There were areas noted that need to be addressed immediately and prior to the wastewater treatment
plant being brought back online to receive processing water. Several components need to be evaluated
for operation and maintenance;the clarifiers showed signs of rust and there were substantial solids in
various components of the wastewater treatment system that need to be removed.A particularly
crucial area of solids that needs to be removed is the elongated concrete basin under the building.This
is particularly crucial and will be a high maintenance area because the stream (Little Bear Creek) also
flows under this building. This is a very dated design that needs special attention to avoid the potential
of solids being lost to the stream. This basin had excessive solids in it that need to be removed
immediately. Prior to this facility processing again this open channel should be evaluated for an
enclosed design.
Stormwater:
A General Stormwater Permit was issued (NCG020793).This SW Permit covers both the mine and
the processing facility.A Spill Prevention Plan specific to the Processing Plant should be developed
and implemented.
i
Page# 2

Permit: NC0000175 Owner-Facility: Quartz Operation
Inspection Date: 03/15/2016* Inspection Type: Compliance Evaluation
Operations & Maintenance Yes No NA NE
Is the plant generally clean with acceptable housekeeping? ❑ ❑ ❑
Does the facility analyze process control parameters,for ex: MLSS, MCRT,Settleable ❑ ' ❑ M ❑
Solids,.pH, DO, Sludge Judge, and other that are applicable?
Comment:
Permit Yes No NA NE
7
(If the present permit expires in 6 months or less). Has the permittee submitted a new M ❑ ❑ ❑ r
application?
Is the facility as described in the.permit? 0 ❑ ❑ ❑
#Are there any special conditions for'the permit? ❑ ❑ ❑
Is access to the plant site restricted to the general public? M ❑ ❑ 0
Is the inspector granted access to all areas for inspection? M ❑ ❑ ❑
Comment:
y
Secondary Clarifier Yes No NA NE
Is the clarifier free of black and odorous wastewater? 0 ❑ ❑ ❑
Is the site free of excessive buildup of solids in center well of circular clarifier? M ❑ ❑ ❑
Are weirs level? ❑ ❑ ❑
Is the site free of weir blockage? ❑ ❑ ❑
y
Is the site free of evidence of short-circuiting? ❑ ❑ ❑
Is scum removal adequate? ❑ ❑ . ❑
Is the site free of excessive floating sludge? M ❑ ❑ ❑
Is the drive unit operational? ❑ ❑ ❑
Is the return rate acceptable(low turbulence)? ` ❑ ❑ ❑ 043
Is the overflow clear of excessive solids/pin floc? ❑ ❑ ❑
Is the sludge blanket level acceptable?(Approximately%of the sidewall depth) ❑ ❑ ❑
Comment: The processing plant is not in operation. Prior to processing resuming at this facility the
clarifiers should be thoroughly evaluated for maintenance needs.
Solids need to be removed.
Lagoons Yes No NA NE
Type of lagoons?
#Number of lagoons in operation at time of visit? 0
Are lagoons operated in?
#Is a re-circulation line present? ❑ ❑ ❑
Page# 3
9

Permit: NC0000175 Owner-Facility: Quartz Operation
Inspection Date: 03/15/2016 Inspection Type: Compliance Evaluation
Lagoons Yes No NA NE
Is lagoon free of excessive floating materials? 0 ❑ ❑ ❑
#Are baffles between ponds or effluent baffles adjustable? ❑ ❑ 0 ❑
Are dike slopes clear of woody vegetation? ❑ ❑ ❑
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? E ❑ ❑ ❑
Is the lagoon free of short circuiting? ❑ ❑ ❑ M
Comment: Stormwater is directed to the lagoon.
Flow Measurement- Effluent Yes No NA NE
#Is flow meter used for reporting? ❑ ❑ ❑
Is flow meter calibrated annually? 0 ❑ ❑ ❑
Is the flow meter operational? ❑ ❑ ❑
(If units are separated) Does the chart recorder match the flow meter? ❑ ❑ ❑
Comment:
Page# 4

From:UNIMIN REG. 828 765 6113 07/08/2013 15:18 #070 P.002/002
9.4 %ptieffimin
QUARTZ/FELDSPAR PLANT
P.O.Box 588
Spruce Pine,NC 28777
Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
July 8th,2013
Ms_Linda Wiggs
NCDENR-DWQ
2090 US Highway 70
Swannanoa,NC 28778
Ms. Wiggs:
On the evening of Wednesday,July 3`d,severe and sustained thunderstorms and
subsequent stormwater accumulation caused a minimal overflow of the Quartz/Feldspar Plant's
emergency containment pond. Our measurement indicates that over 8 inches of rain had fallen
within 30 hours at the plant site.
The wastewater plant continued to operate and discharge at capacity throughout the
event. The dam remained completely intact. The pond overflowed to Little Bear Creek,which
dissects plant property. Exact measurement ofthe amount of overflow is not possible,but we
estimate no more than 200 gpm,for 3 hours;,approximately 36,000 gallons. The overflow
condition existed from 630 pm to 930 pm. The Quartz/Feldspar Plant has not operated the main
flotation process since November 2012,and no bulk chemicals have been used since then.
Sample results of the emergency pond effluent on Wednesday during the overflow were
as follows: pH: 7.5,F: 6.5 mg/L,Turbidity:90 NTU.
The pH measured is typical of our effluent under current operating conditions. Turbidity
declined rapidly as pond water was processed through the treatment plant. Please do not hesitate
to contact me directly if you have any questions or require additional information.
Sincerely, ,� p
Stephen A.Wilson
ORC,QuarWFeldspar Plant
cc:D.Myers
J.Ferguson

From:UNIMIN REG. 828 765 6113 07/08/2013 15:17 #070 P.001 /002
41 �f����it uni In
/ 4 i
UNIMIN QnarWFddVar Plant
P.O.Boa 588
Hwy 226 North
Spruce Pine,NC 28777
Phone: [phone]M
Fax: 828-76"912
FACSIMILE TRANSMISSION
DELIVER TO: Ll n W4
TT
G
'tom'
FROM: �-� d1- �/(��m r n
DATE:
MATERIAL BEING TRANSMITTED:
NUMBER OF PAGES -THIS COVER PLUS PAGE(S)
FOR VOICE CONTACT,CALL(828)7654283 EXT. �0 7�

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
Division of Water Resources Division of Ndater Resources
1617 Mail Service Center
Raleigh,NC 27699-1617 F E B 1 7 2015
Subject: Delegation of Signature Authority water Quality Regional Operations
Unimin Corporation—tQuartpar Facility I Asheville Regional Ortice
NPDES Number&08000 73 —
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—Quartz/Feldspar Facility as required by all applicable federal, state, and local
environmental agencies specifically with the requirements for signatory authority as specified in 15A
NCAC 213.0506.
Doug Myers Quartz Plant Manager
Steve Wilson Quartz Environmental Supervisor
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,Doug Myers, Steve Wilson,Mike Vencill
ICD_W$9 shevil_ leRegional Office,20 0 TJ S-Hw`y a 0,= Via_nnanoa�NC-2'8-778
Water Quality Permitting Section, 1617 Mail Service Center,Raleigh,NC 27699-1617

E COPY
NCDENR
North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources
Division of Water Quality
Beverly Eaves Perdue Charles Wakild, P. E. Dee Freeman
Governor Director Secretary
March 29, 2012
Andrew G.Bradley,Affairs Environmental VP
Unimin Corporation
258 Elm Street
New Canaan, CT 06840
Subject: NOTICE OF VIOLATION
NOV-2012-DV-0069
Permit No.NC0000175
Quartz/Feldspar-Facility
Mitchell County
Dear Mr.Bradley:
A review has been conducted of Unimin Quartz Operation's wastewater overflow 5-Day Report submitted
by Unimin Corporation. This review has shown the subject facility to be in violation of the requirements
found in Permit NC0000175 and/or G.S. 143-215.1(a)(1). The violation(s)that occurred are summarized
below.
Area Violation Date Description Violation Type
Wastewater Overflow 02/21/2012 Wastewater Overflow Discharge
57,600 Gallons Without Valid
Permit
Remedial actions as described in Unimin's response letter dated February 24,2012 should be taken to
prevent a reoccurrence of this event.Please notify this office as these installations occur at the facility.
Your cooperation in this matter is greatly appreciated. If you should have any questions,please do not
hesitate to contact Jeff Menzel at 828-296-4658.
Sincerely,
Chuck Cranford, Region Supervisor
Surface Water Protecfion
Asheville Regional Office
cc: Steve Wilson, ORC—Quartz/Feldspar Facility
DWQ Central Files
PERCS Units
S:\SWP\Mitchell\Wastewater\lndustrial\Unimin Quartz Feldspar 00175\NOV-2012-DV-0069.3.28.12.doc
SURFACE WATER PROTECTION—ASHEVILLE REGIONAL OFFICE
Location:2090 U.S.Highway 70,Swannanoa,NC 28778 One
Phone:[phone]\FAX:[phone] NOrthCarolina
Internet:www.ncwaterguality.oro Naturah&

O� A
Form WWTP-BYPASS/UPSET
FEB 2 7 20�2 11trrient Plant (WWTP) Bypass/Upset Reporting Form 5 Day Report
PART I
rt E G Ur1LITY SECTION
This form�,.js. e�abfiiiftddt6tl% ptopriaLeEDW Regional Office within five days of the first knowledge of the unanticipated
bypass or',up et;, >,... . .-,;,r- -.-�„
Permit Number: AhWv O'usE reatment plant permit number
/tl c OQO�� 7 ( y p p )
Facility: anum/4 0144r&Ge16L4,/ Deere, I PA Incident# /�
Owner: // I^sn COr�J0/R�+ er, Region: SSAexIle
City: /)rtit c / I �1 , /Y Ci County:
SPECIFIC location of the treatment units bypassed or where the upset occurred in the facility:
Was the WWTP compliant with permit requirements? R)Yes ❑ No ❑ Unknown
Was samples be taken during bypass?: �Yes ❑ No UnknowrD
Incident Started Dt: 2 r'261 Time: &° P®941 Incident End Dt: >7�°Z 6 -219iZ Time: 7t to A"1
(mm-dd-yyyy) hh:mm AWPM (mm-dd-yyyy) hh:mm AM/PM
Estimated volume of the Bypass/Upset: S��/ gallons / / A /� /
Describe how the volume was determined: 'e ¢/ C Ae, �J¢i AG/.e ��n\ -14A/'( Cl' (t h yj
7O
Weather conditions during bypass/upset event: C l f A/
Did Bypass/Upset reach surface pwaters? [9 Yes n No ❑ Unknown Volume reached surface waters(gallons): Sze &L?0
Surface water name: �'l/ &7eA',(Cf,4,k
nn
Did the bypass/upset result in a fish kill? UYes ONO [Inknown If Yes,estimated number offish killed? /v A
SPECIFIC cause(s)of the Bypass/Upset: ,�4 ZI61/ —�-�--
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:
Signature: Title /' 14 c P
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 Bypass with reference to the incident number(the incident number is only generated
when electronic entry of this form is completed, if used).
WWTP-Bypass/Upset Form May 20,2008 02:40 PM Page 1

CERTIFIED MAIL
unimin
QUARTZ/FELDSPAR PLANT
P.O. Box 588
Spruce Pine,NC 28777 1:
Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone] FEB 2 7 2012
g
�. 1NgTER QUALITY S'=CTION
ASHEVILLE REGIONAL OFFICE
February 24,2012
NC DENR - . �... . . ..
Division of Water Quality
2090 US Hwy 70
Swannanoa,NC 28778
Attn: Mr.Keith Haynes
Dear Mr. Haynes,
This correspondence is to confirm earlier verbal notification, made by Mr.
Doug Myers and myself,of a discharge event at Unimin's Quartz-Feldspar plant in
Mitchell County on 2/21/2012. At 6:40 am that day, an unintentional discharge
from the plant's emergency pond(Epond)was discovered. The pond overflows to
Little Dear Creek which discharges into the North Toe River. Plant records and
measurements of Epond capacity indicate that the overflow began at 6:00 am,
stopped at 7:40 am,with a total discharge volume of 57600 gallons of water. The
plant was not operating during the holiday weekend preceding the discharge, and
had not yet started up for the week. The discharged water was primarily co-
mingled storm water from Sunday,February 19th's rain event and treated recycle
water from a bulk process supply tank. Samples were taken of the pond overflow
during the event and of the North Toe River, upstream and downstream,within 1
hour of the end of the event. This table summarizes sample results:
pH Turbidity Fluoride Conc Settleable
NTU Mo Solids Ml/I
Discharge 7.4 14 29.5 <0.1
N Toe 7.4 8.1 0.45
Upstream
" N Toe 7.5 3.0 0.50
Downstream

CERTIFIED MAIL
The discharge occurred as a result of a plant supply valve which was inadvertently
left open following routine maintenance activity on Monday afternoon. Unimin is
making efforts to ensure this type of event does not occur again in the future,
including the installation of pond level sensors with alarms. Environmental impact
training is conducted annually at the plant site,and includes the necessity to
eliminate the potential for any unregulated discharge.
Please find the attached DWQ Bypass Report Form and do not hesitate to
contact Doug Myers at(828)-765-4283,or myself directly at(828)-766-0052,if you
require any additional information.
Yours Truly, `A
Stephen .Wilson ORC
Environmental Affairs Supervisor
Quartz/Feldspar H Plant
Unimin Corporation
Cc: D. Mann
D.Myers
J.Ferguson
QFP File

AM
NCDENR
North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources
Division of Water Quality
Beverly Eaves Perdue Charles Wakild, P. E. Dee Freeman
Governor Director Secretary
September 26 2012 'z
t
i
CERTIFIED MAIL: 7007 1490 0004 5533 6875JD
1 I
RETURN RECEIPT REQUESTED .; � OCT 2012
t; x
Mr. Stephen Andrew Wilson t'
Unimin Corp. " WATER QUALITY SECTION
}' AS FHEVILLE REGIONAL OFFICE P.O.Box 588
Spruce Pine NC 28777 ,i . .•. ..',,_ `•_.
a ........ f
SUBJECT: NOTICE OF VIOLATION:NOV-2012-TX-0060
Whole Effluent Toxicity(WET)Testing
NPDES Permit No.NC0000175
Unimin Corp. Quartz Operation
Mitchell County
Dear Mr. Wilson:
This is to inform you that a review of your toxicity self-monitoring report form for the month of July 2012 indicates a violation of the
toxicity limitation specified in your NPDES Permit.
You should take whatever remedial actions are necessary to eliminate the conditions causing the effluent toxicity violation(s). Your
efforts may include conducting a Toxicity Reduction Evaluation(TRE), a site-specific study designed to identify the causative agents
of effluent toxicity,isolate the sources of toxicity, evaluate the effectiveness of toxicity control options,and confirm reductions in
effluent toxicity. Please be aware that North Carolina General Statutes provide for assessment of civil penalties for violations of
NPDES permit limitations and requirements.
The reverse side of this Notice contains important information concerning your Whole Effluent Toxicity Monitoring and Reporting
Requirements. Please note appropriate mailing addresses for submitting your Discharge Monitoring Reports (DMRs) and Aquatic
Toxicity (AT) Test Forms. We encourage you to review this information; if it would be helpful to discuss this situation or possible
solutions to resolve effluent toxicity noncompliance,please contact Mr. John Giorgino with this office at(919)743-8441.
m rely,
indy M re
Supervisor,Aquatic Toxicology Unit
cc: Chuck Cranford- sheville egional(Qfiflce
eff Iu9Z:52:el,-Ash ;vane regional office
Central Files
Environmental Sciences Section
1621 Mail Service Center,Raleigh,North Carolina 27699-1621 One
Location:4401 Reedy Creek Road,Raleigh,North Carolina 27607 t.l�
Phone:[phone] FAX:[phone] Norte Cw.-Olina
Internet:http:l/h2o.enr.state.nc.us/esb/
An Equal Opportunity!Affirmative Action Employer �db l�bb

WHOLE EFFLUENT TOXICITY MONITORING AND REPORTING INFORMATION
➢ The following items are provided in an effort to assist you with identifying critical and sometimes overlooked toxicity testing and reporting
information. Please take time to review this information.The items below do not address or include all the toxicity testing and reporting
requirements contained in your NPDES permit. If you should have any questions about your toxicity testing requirement,please contact Mr.
John Giorgino with the Aquatic Toxicology Unit at(919)743-8401 or another Unit representative at the same number.
➢ The permittee is responsible for ensuring that toxicity testing is conducted according to the permit requirement and that toxicity report forms are
appropriately filed.
➢ The reporting of whole effluent toxicity testing data is a dual requirement. All toxicity test results must be entered(with the appropriate
parameter code)on your monthly Discharge Monitoring Report which is submitted to:
North Carolina Division of Water Quality
Central Files
1617 Mail Service Center
Raleigh,NC 27699-1617
IN ADDITION
Toxicity test data(original"AT"form)must be submitted to the following address:
North Carolina Division of Water Quality
Environmental Sciences Section
1621 Mail Service Center
Raleigh,North Carolina 27699-1621
➢ Toxicity test results shall be filed with the Environmental Sciences Section no later than 30 days after the end of the reporting period
(eg,January test result is due by the end of February).
➢ Toxicity test condition language contained in your NPDES permit may require use of multiple concentration toxicity testing upon failure of any
single quarterly toxicity test. If the initial pass/fail test fails or if the chronic value is lower than the permit limit,then at least two multiple
concentration toxicity tests(one per month)will be conducted over the following two months. As many analyses as can be completed will be
accepted. If your NPDES permit does not require use of multiple concentration toxicity testing upon failure of any single quarterly test, you
may choose to conduct either single concentration toxicity testing or multiple concentration toxicity testing per the Division's WET enforcement
initiatives effective July 1, 1999. Follow-up multiple concentration toxicity testing will influence the Division's enforcement response.
➢ Toxicity testing months are specified by the NPDES Permit,except for NPDES Permits which contain episodic toxicity monitoring
requirements(eg,if the testing months specified in your NPDES permit are March,June,September,and December,then toxicity testing must
be conducted during these months).
➢ If your NPDES Permit specifies episodic monitoring and your facility does not have a discharge from January 1-June 30,then you must provide
written notification to the Environmental Sciences Section by June 30 that a discharge did not occur during the first six months of the calendar
year.
➢ If you receive notification from your contract laboratory that a test was invalidated,you should immediately notify the Environmental Sciences
Section at(919)743-8401 and provide written documentation indicating why the test was invalidated and the date when follow-up testing will
occur.
➢ If your facility is required to conduct toxicity testing during a month in which no discharge occurs,you should complete the information block
located at the top of the AT form indicating the facility name,permit number,pipe number,county and the month/year of the subject report.
You should also write"No Flow"on the AT form,sign the form and submit following normal procedures.
➢ The Aquatic Toxicity Test forms shall be signed by the facility's Operator in Responsible Charge(ORC)except for facilities which have not
received a facility classification. In these cases,a duly authorized facility representative must sign the AT form. The AT form must also be
signed by the performing lab supervisor.
➢ To determine if your AT test forms were received on time by the Division of Water Quality,you may consider submitting your toxicity test
results certified mail,return receipt requested to the Environmental Sciences Section.
Environmental Sciences Section
1621 Mail Service Center,Raleigh,North Carolina 27699-1621 One
Location:4401 Reedy Creek Road,Raleigh,North Carolina 27607 NorthCarolina
Phone:[phone] FAX:[phone]
Internet:http://h2o.enr.state.nG.us/esb/ Natumllff
An Equal Opportunity%Affirmative Action Employer

North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources
Division of Water Quality
Beverly Eaves Perdue Charles Wakild, P. E. Dee Freeman
Governor Director Secretary
September 26,2012 ;g,.tr.
_..
CERTIFIED MAIL: 7007 1.490 0004 5533 6875
RETURN RECEIPT REQUESTED ` IS
Mr: Stephen Andrew Wilson. `• =•OCT � � 2012
Uni.mi.n Corp. E
P.O.Box 588 CC
Spruce Pine,NC 28777 '• ►'V�TUR QUALlf SECtlbN
A; Ptl t 'F{EjnlrAl OFF1C�. .
SUBJECT: NOTICE OF VIOLATION:NOV-2012-TX-0060
Whole Effluent Toxicity(WET)Testing +'
'a"F4viW�t"J. '..Cf S).(,. *S•b._v'.•.,c.�iiwi.rrr:M...,. ., Y •.
•,�E -y, NPDES Permit No.NC0000175
Unimin Corp.Quartz Operation
Mitchell County
Dear Mr.Wilson:
This is to inform you that a review of your toxicity self-monitoring report form for the month of July 2012 indicates a violation of the
toxicity limitation specified in your NPDES Permit.
You should take whatever remedial actions are necessary to eliminate the conditions causing the effluent toxicity violation(s). Your
efforts may include conducting a Toxicity Reduction Evaluation(TRE), a site-specific study designed to identify the causative agents
of effluent toxicity,isolate the sources of toxicity,evaluate the effectiveness of toxicity control options, and confirm reductions in
effluent toxicity. Please be aware that North Carolina General Statutes provide for assessment of civil penalties for violations of
NPDES permit limitations and requirements.
The reverse side of this Notice contains important information concerning your Whole Effluent Toxicity Monitoring and Reporting
Requirements. Please note appropriate mailing addresses for submitting your Discharge Monitoring Reports(DMRs) and Aquatic
Toxicity (AT) Test Forms. We encourage you to review this information; if it would be helpful to discuss this situation or possible
solutions to resolve effluent toxicity noncompliance,please contact Mr.John Giorgino with this office at(919)743-8441.
Sincerely, ^
# 6r�
re
Supervisor,Aquatic Toxicology Unit
cc: Chu zfr)rd-Ws•eyffle Re;iona� ee.:
J T enzel-Asheville Regional Office
Central Files
Environmental Sciences Section
1621 Mail Service Center,Raleigh,North Carolina 27699-1621 One
Location:4401 Reedy Creek Road,Raleigh,North Carolina 27607 NorthCarolina
Phone:[phone] FAX:[phone]
Internet:http:i/h2o.enr.state.nc.Us/esb/ 7,ahavll
ff
An Equal Opportunity 1 Affirmative Acton Employer

WHOLE EFFLUENT TOXICITY MONITORING AND REPORTING INFORMATION
➢ The following items are provided in an effort to assist you with identifying critical and sometimes overlooked toxicity testing and reporting
information. Please take time to review this information.The items below do not address or include all the toxicity testing and reporting
requirements contained in your NPDES permit. If you should have any questions about your toxicity testing requirement,please contact Mr.
John Giorgino with the Aquatic Toxicology Unit at(919)743-8401 or another Unit representative at the same number.
➢ The permittee is responsible for ensuring that toxicity testing is conducted according to the permit requirement and that toxicity report forms are
appropriately filed.
➢ The reporting of whole effluent toxicity testing data is a dual requirement. All toxicity test results must be entered(with the appropriate
parameter code)on your monthly Discharge Monitoring Report which is submitted to:
North Carolina Division of Water Quality
Central Files
1617 Mail Service Center
Raleigh,NC 27699-1617
IN ADDITION
^`' tToxicity test data(original"AT"form)must be submitted to the following address:
North Carolina Division of Water Quality
Environmental Sciences Section
1621 Mail Service Center q s
Raleigh,North Carolina 27699-1621
➢ Toxicity test results shall be filed with the Environmental Sciences Section no later than 30 days after the end of the reporting period
(eg,January test result is due by the end of February).
➢ Toxicity test condition language contained in your NPDES permit may require use of multiple concentration toxicity testing upon failure of any
single quarterly toxicity test. If the initial pass/fail test fails or if the chronic value is lower than the permit limit,then at least two multiple
concentration toxicity tests(one per month)will be conducted over the following two months. As many analyses as can be completed will be
accepted. If your NPDES permit does not require use of multiple concentration toxicity testing,upon failure of any single.quarterly test, you
may choose to conduct either single concentration toxicity testing or multiple concentration toxicity testing per the Division's WET enforcement
initiatives effective July 1, 1999. Follow-up multiple concentration toxicity testing will influence the Division's enforcement response.
➢ Toxicity testing months are specified by the NPDES Permit,except for NPDES Permits which contain episodic toxicity monitoring
requirements(eg,if the testing months specified in your NPDES permit are March,June,September,and December,then toxicity testing must
be conducted during these months).
➢ If your NPDES Permit specifies episodic monitoring and your facility does not have a discharge from January 1-June 30,then you must provide
written notification to the Environmental Sciences Section by June 30 that a discharge did not occur during the first six months of the calendar
year.
➢ If you receive notification from your contract laboratory that a test was invalidated,you should immediately notify the Environmental Sciences
Section at(919)743-8401 and provide.written documentation indicating why the test was invalidated and the date when follow-up testing will
occur.
➢ If your facility is required to conduct toxicity testing during a month in which no discharge occurs,you should complete the information block
located at the top of the AT form indicating the facility name,permit number,pipe number,county and the month/year of the subject report.
You should also write"No Flow"on the AT form,sign the form and submit following normal procedures.
➢ The Aquatic Toxicity Test forms shall be signed by,the facility's Operator in Responsible Charge(ORC)except for facilities which have not
received a facility classification. In these cases,a duly authorized facility representative must sign the AT form. The AT form must also be
signed by the performing lab supervisor.
➢ To determine if your AT test forms were received on time by the Division of Water Quality,you may consider submitting your toxicity test
results certified mail,return receipt requested to the Environmental Sciences Section.
Environmental Sciences Section
1621 Mail Service Center,Raleigh,North Carolina 27699-1621 One
Location:4401 Reedy Creek Road,.Raleigh,North Carolina 27607 NorthCarolina
Phone:[phone] FAX':919-743-8517
Internet http:llh2o.enr state.nc.uslesb! awall
An Equal Oppodunity 1 AftirmaUve Action.Employer

4-6
North Caro►n0 Department of.Environment and Natural Resources_
Pat McCrary John E, Skvarla All
Governor Secretary;
Ap�041014
CERTIFIED MAIL;'7012 2214 0002 3534 8420
RETURN;RECEIPT REQUESTED
Mr.Carl Horvat
Ummin Corp..
P;O,,,Box588`'
,Spruce Pine;NC.28777-0588
SUBIECT NOTICE;OF VIOI<, TION:,NQV-2014 TX-,0028`'
Whole EffluentToxicity(WET)Testing
NPDES-Permit No:N000001 75,
Unim n,QuartzOperation WWTP'
Mitchell County
DearMr.lorvat:
This is to uiform.you:that a.ieview of your toxicity self=monitoring report:form for ti emonfh of,Januaiy 2014'indicates aviolation of'
the tonicity limitation,specifiedn-your NPDES Permit;
Yowiliould take whatever remedial actions are necessary to elim"'ate`the'conditioirs.causing`the effluent toxicity violation(§).;'Your
Arts- include c.....J ing`a Toxicity Red'uetion,Evaluation,(TRE);a site specific study designed-to identify:ihe causative agents
of effluent toxicity,isoiate.the sources oftoxicity,evaIuateihe effectrvenessaf tonicity control options,and co'rifirni reduchonsin
effluent tortcit:y 'Please be aware that'North Carolina GenerafStatutes provde.for assessment of.civil'penalties.for violations of
NPDES permit;limitations and requirements.
The reverse side of this Notice contains imppoint information con ceming your Whole Effluent Toxicity Monitoring and Reporting
RequiTaz:cC -,(AT)§Test Forms teWe enow e e mailing,
ou to..review 1h,sor bmctttng your Discharge Monttortrig Reports(DMlts)and Aq"uatlie
ty ag y rmation;lf it would be helpful to discuss tri'is situation or..possible
'solufionsto'resolve eftluenttoxicit}r'noncompliance;please contact Mr Jolin Giorgino kith ih�s officeaf(919).743=8441.,
Sincerely,,
Candy,Moore,'Supervisor Aquatic Toxicology'$ranch
Division of., J i,,Resources,NCDENR
cc.'Chuck.Cranford-:Asheville`Regional'Office
.feff Menzel-,Asheville-Regional.Office
Central.Files
Water;Sciences;$action
1621 MM SWIce*titer,Raleigh N hta6 ha 27699.1621,
'Looatione4401:Reedy`CreekBoad,Raleigh;North Caro llna27'607'
Phone;919-743=840o 1 FAX:[phone]
intemet'portal ncdehr or'iweti/wglhome
An Equar OpporGiriity 1�Affirniative Action Employer

WHOLE',EFFLUENT T.OXICITY'MONITORING AND REPORTING INFORMATION
The followingitems are provided in.an effort to assist,you with identifying-critical and sornetimes overlooked toxrcr*ty testing and teporttng-
information. Please4ake.time to.review this:information.The-items below do not address or include all.the toxicity testing and reporting
requirements contained in your NPDES:perniit. If you should�have any_questions about your toxicity testing,requirement,please contact,Mr.
John Giorgino with the Aquatic'Toxicology Branch at(919)743-8401 or another:Branch representative at the same number.
➢ The,�ermiIft irresponsible for"casur ng'thattoxicity testing is conducte&hccording to the permit requiremenvandthattoxicity reporfforms are
appropriately filed.
Thereporting ofwhole effluent-toxicity testing data is a ea.dual.ruirement. All toxicity test results must be entered(with the,'appropriate
parameter.code)o8-your monthly DischargeMonitoring.Report which is submitted to
North Carolina Division of_Water Resources
Central-Files
1617 Mail'Service Center
Ral eigh,`NC'27699-1617
IN ADDITION
Toxicity test data(original"AT":form),must be submitted to ihexfgllowin,g address:
North Carolina Division of Water Resources
Water,Sei'ences Section
1621 Mai]Service Center
.Raleigh,North Carolina;27699-1621
>, Toxicity test results shall be'filed With-the Water Sciences_Section no later than 30 days after the'end'of the'_reportinz°period(eg,J,anuaiy
`test result.is duc`by'the end of February).
Toxicityfest condition language contained in your'NPDES.permit may require_use-of multiple concentration toxicity testing upon failure of any.
singlequarterly toxicity test. If the initial.passffail'test fails or if the,chronic is lower,than the-permit limit;>then.at least twWmultiple.
concentratron,toxicitytests(one per:ffonth)will be conducted overthe following two months: As many'analyses'as ean'be completed will be
,accepted: If your NPDES permit does.not require use of,'multiple,concentiation toxicity'testing upon failure of any smgle,gnarterly test, :you
may,choose to.conduct,cithef, ingle concentration toxicitytestmg:ormultiple concentration toxicity testing per the Division's WET_enforcernent
initiatives,effective July 1, 1999. Follow-up multiple concentration toxicity testing will influence the`Division's enforcement response.
9 Toxicity-testing nionths:are.specifred bythe NPDES Permit,except for NPAES,Permitsrwhich:contain episodic<toxicitymonitonng;.
requifements-(eg;if the testing months specified in yourNP.DES permit are March;June,September;and December,then toxicity testingmust.
be conducted-during"fhesemonths).-
If your NPD) S Permit specifies episodic monitoring and your facility does not have a discharge'from 7anuary'1-June 30;then you mustprovide'
written;notification to the Water'Seiences Section by:.June 30:that a discharge did not occur'during'the first,six months of the calendar year..
If you receive notification frem.your contract laboratory that a test was.invalidated,you sh6uld immediately notifythe Water Sciences Section
at�(9I9),743-8401 and provide.writ ten.documentation indicating why the test.was-invalidated and the date,When.follow-up testing will occur.
9 if your:facility is`requiied'to conduct toxicity testing during a.month iri"which no discharge occurs,you should complete the information block
located-afthe.torr of the AT form indicating the facility•n"aine,permit number,pipe:number,county and.the month/year of the subject report.
You should also write"N6.Flow"on the AT form,sign the form and submit following normal procedures.
A The=Aquatic•ToxicityTestforms shall be signed by-the,facility'' Operator in Responsible Charge(ORC)exceptfor facilities which have not
received a facility classification: In these cases,a;duly-authorize_d,facility representative must sign the AT form. The AT form must also"be
signed by the performing lab supervisor.
To determine if your>AT test forms wer&receNed oritiftw by,the Division of Water-Resources,-you may consider submitting your toxicity test.
results certified mail;return receipt,requested fo'the Water Sciences Section.
'Waier Sciences Sectlon
1621 Mail Service Center,Raleigh,North Car6lin6 27699-1621'
LOG-006lr 4901 Reedy Creek Road;Raleigh,North Carolina 27607
Phone:919.743=8400 C FAX:[phone]
Internet:portal:ncdenrbrjlweblwgrhome
An Equal Oppoftuniry\Affirrriative'AcGon'Employer

uni CERTIFIED MAIL
NC Db oD l -/ 5-
Quartz Operation
P. O. Box 588
Bakersville Hwy.
Spruce Pine, NC 28777
[phone]
Fax: [phone]
May 30t",2008
NC DENR
Division of Water Quality
2090 US Hwy 70
Swannanoa,NC 28778
Attn: Mr.Keith Haynes
Dear Mr. Haynes,
This correspondence is to confirm verbal notification, made by Mr. Jeff
Ferguson, of a brief upset at Unimin's Quartz-Feldspar water treatment plant on
5/27/08. At 1:30 pm, a malfunctioning dump truck struck a water line resulting in a
15 minute discharge of.less'than 10,000 gallons of buffered process water to Little
Bear Creek.
Although a brief increase in turbidity was observed, there was minimal
impact on the stream due to the immediate action taken to stop the discharge.
Upstream and downstream samples tested for pH, Flouride, and turbidity taken
from the North Toe River prior to, and within 1 hour after the upset, yielded 7.52,
0.32, 8.7, and 7.71, 0.68, 4.9, respectively. Unimin has since taken necessary
corrective actions to ensure this type of event does not reoccur.
Please do not hesitate to contact me directly if you require any additional
information.
Yours Truly,
Stephe eA.Wilkson ORC
QC/Environmental Affairs Supervisor
Quartz/Feldspar Plant n�
Unimin Corporation V
Cc: D. Myers JUI� — 3 2008
D. Mann
J.Ferguson
FP File WATER QUALITY SECTION
Q ASHEVILLE REGIONAL OFFICE

-fy-, 6dR-u ce-
CERTIFIED MAIL
unimin',
Quartz Operation V L�
P.O.Box 588
7638 South 226 Highway
Spruce Pine, NC 28777-0588 JUL 1 5 2008
[phone]
Fax: [phone]
WATER QUALITY SECTION
ASHEVILLE REGIONAL OFFICE
July 11,2008
NC Division of Water Quality
2090 US Hwy 70
Swannanoa,NC 28778
Dear Sir or Madam:
Upon review of QFP DMRs,I discovered that I had failed to sample QFP effluent
for Oil and Grease in the months of March and April,2008, as required by-permit.
Please be advised that DMRs for months of March and April were submitted and
inadvertently marked compliant. Previously,those samples had been collected and
submitted for analysis with pesticide samples that were required monthly. In
March, a permit change was approved by the division to allow samples for
pesticides to be taken quarterly, rather than monthly. Unfortunately,this operator
failed to continue the monthly sampling for Oil and Grease. Monthly sampling was
resumed in the first week of June,2008 and will be scheduled monthly with
reminders via corporate email from this date forward.
Sincerely,
A � L�-
Stephen A.Wilson
Operator in Responsible Charge '
Cc: D.Myers
D.Mann
J. Ferguson
QFP File

s
CC AOT
E RR
North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources
Division of Water Quality
Beverly Eaves Perdue Coleen H.Sullins Dee Freeman
G9vemor Director Secretary
September 20,2010 C� Fs �1
Al
Mr.Jeffery S.Ferguson 1'.E,
Unimin Corporation
136 Crystal Drive
Spruce Pine,NC. 28777
Subject:Permit Modification request
Unimin Corp.WWTP
NPDES Permit NC0000175
Mitchell County
Dear Mr.Ferguson:
The Division of Water Quality(DWQ)has reviewed your request for modification of the subject permit by deletion of the
sampling requirements for Undone from your existing NPDES permit. In the permit Issued November 1,2006,supplemental conditions
allowed a review of twelve months of data to determine if reasonable potential to exceed the allowable concentration still existed.
A review of discharge monitoring reports submitted to;the DWQ between January 2008 and March 2010 provided the data
used in.the.updated reasonable potential analysis.Based.on this set of sampling results,the analyses indicate there is No Reasonable
potential for the Unlmin Corporation to discharge wastewater effiuent containing levels of Lindane.At this time your request for'
moval of Querferly monttorinst for Lindane fs°angrcved
We are forwarding you the new Part 1,Section A and Special Conditions page,which reflect the daleflon of ltndane
Monitoring requirements and Special Conditions for Lindane.You should replace your eklMing Section A and Special Conditions
pages from your aurrent_permit with these three pages.This permit correction 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).
If any parts,measurement frequencies or sampling requirements contained in this permit correction 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 1508 of the North Carolina General Statutes,and filed with the'Office of
Administrative Hearings(Viet 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 modilication or
revocation and retssuance 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 governments[permit that'may be required: if you have any questions conceming.this permit,please contact
Bob.Guerra.at'telephone number(919)807-6387,
Sincerely.,
Coleen H.Sullins
r"r cc: Asheville Regional Office/Surface Water Protection
NPDES File/NC0000175
Central File
1617 Mat Service Center,Ralegh.North Carolina•27699.1617
Location:512 N.Salisbury St.Raleigh,North Carolina 27V One'
Phone:91"07.63871 FAX:WS-807.64951 Customer SeMw:1-677-623-6748 North.Caroli na
InlemeGlv►wrn�vaterquaii�.arg aturdl
An Equal Opponunly I Afirtnative Action Fmpoyer

Permit Number NCOOOO175 t
PART 1, SECTION A
A. (1). EFFLUENT LIMITATIONS AND MONITORING REQUIREMENTS-FINAL
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:
z
EFFLUENT LIIUJITATIONS Mortltprmg Iequj�ements
Y�ffiuent Measurome Sam "le Sam le
Gh�ractertstics Monthl Dail�r Maximum
t..
t = AVera a ., 4 reguencY ype Loti;on:..
Flow 3.6 MGD Continuous Recording I or E
Total Fluoride 109.0 Ib/day 218.0 lb/day Daily Comeposit E, U, D
Total Suspended 1320.0 lb/day 2040.0 lb/day Daily Composit E, U, D
Solids e
Settleable Solids Daily Grab E
Turbidity2 Daily Grab E, U, D
pH3 Daily Grab E, U, D
Oil and Grease Monthly Grab E
Chloride4 Quarterly Composit E
e
Chronic Toxicity6 Quarterly Composit E
e
Notes:
1. Sample locations: E-Effluent, I- Influent, U —Above the facility intake, D- Penland bridge.
Instream samples shall be grab samples and shall be conducted 3/week.
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•duting the same months as toxicity testing. .
5. Chronic Toxicity(Ceriodaphnia) Pass/Fail at 11%: January,April, July and October. See
Special Condition A(2).
There shall be no discharge of floating solids or visible foam in other than trace amounts.
. 1

Permit Number NCO000175
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 11%.
The permit holder shall perform at a minimum, quarferl 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 1098)or subsequent versions. The tests will be
performed during the months of January,i 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 11
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 11 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 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 Sectiojl
no later than 30 days after the end of the reporting period for which the report is made. I
Test data shall be complete, accurate, include all supporting chemical! h sical measurement 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 i
measured and reported if chlorine is employed for disinfection of the waste stream. I

Permit Number NC0000175
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.
A. (3). TURBIDITY
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. (4). 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. (5). FLUORIDE 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. (6). PERMIT MODIFICATIONS
This permit shall 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.

Cantwell, Janet
From: [e-mail]
Sent: Wednesday, September 28, 2011 3:40 PM
To: Cantwell, Janet
Subject: Unimin lindane letter
Attachments: Scan_Doc0002.pdf
Mrs'. Cantwell--here's the letter--(See attached file: Scan_Doc0002.pdf)
Steve Wilson
Environmental Supervisor
Unimin Quartz Plant
PO Box 588
Spruce Pine, NC 28777
1

y�
WORM,
'Qutfaq Location (Lirral#S�Ty�,
Permit NG0000 Verslon:'31— status:rExpl� red OFNum 001— Sde L
InaO Parameter M_ODN R Load AvgM D Min MGeoVV Geeoo Unit MsmtF Smpl T jE mpI,L.v .
Chloride(as Cl) 00940 10 ... - . mg/1 Quane Comp E
--- - - —
�; Flow,in conduit or thru...0 416 mgd Contin Recor... E
i (_,I (Fluoride Total(as F) . ,0 109 _ 216 Ibstday SXwe Comp iF
�> Fluorde Total(as F)_._ 10 — _ hslday 3}i are Comp...}U D
E Lindane-39782 !0 _
_ _ ugll QuartP Crah I E
L Oil&Grease-00556 -TO — _�_ � - mgll Monthly Grah E ; -
i 0 OF STATRE 7Day Chr...'0 _ _i -E passifail Duarte Cornp E ) �;
_ __ _ a
PH 00400 ._._ ���- - 10 6 su 5X.we.. Grab iE j .... ..,_. _
--—_ _
E...PP-0 4400 0 - i -- su 3Xdae Giah UD i r
L Solids Settleable-005...0 mill S Cwe Grab E
- -- -- --
L Solids,Total Suspende...0 _ —_ -tn mg/1 3--We—_Comp U D
[ Solids,Total Suspende...IO 1320 _-2640 -- Ilbstday 5 X��e.. Gomp IE - V
_. _
Turbidity,HCH Turbidi... 10 !_- into 3 Xwe.. Grab IUD
_(-]_Turbidity,HCH Tuibidi... 0 ritu 5 Xwe Grab IE -
-- —- --
i Salids,Total Suspende...0 i ___ —� _ m_g/l 3Xwe Comp B
[✓S UD_ --- -
olids,Total Suspende...10 _ 1320 26 40 Ibslday 5 Xwe Comp E C�P-
-- -- --- -- ... ... -_
r...: ..,_e�....._:...�",:�:.�...,d..,7.•'•.'._....�..__..............»..- IFS, :..-....._.._...___...___._._.::_,�.._....u:_._.a�:.'�._::_ �_��
Expand p nd VOC Parameters
CAI Close
16 Parameters found -� 'jReady jSID:LTLL
�l�

NC®ENR
North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources
Pat McCrory Donald R. van der Vaart
Governor Secretary
August 5,2015
Andrew G.Bradley
Unimin Corporation
Feldspar Facility
PO Box 588
Spruce Pine,NC 28777
Subject: Acknowledgement of Permit Renewal
Permit NC0000175
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
Bel-nick at(919) 807-6389.
Sincerely,
"� 1 1L lift V ED
W Ire*k/Tkzd-f o roL Division of Water Resources
t
Wren Thedford
Wastewater Branch AUG 1 0 2015
Water Quality,Regional Operations
cc: Central Files Asheville Regional Office
shevi!1'le Re ion „t0£1'ce
r
NPDES Unit
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.ncwater.ora
An Equal OpportunityV, mnative Action Employer

NPDES PERMIT APPLICATION - SHORT 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 NCO00030
PIS
Please print or type.
1. Contact Information:
Owner Name Unimin Corporation
Facility Name Unimin Corporation- Quartz/Feldspar 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
RECEIVEQIDENR/DWR
2. Location of facility producing discharge:
Check here if same as above ❑ J U L 3 0 2015
Water Quality
Street Address or State Road 7638 South 226 Hwy. Permitting Section
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- Quartz/Feldspar:Facjlity r
Mailing Address P. O. Box 588
City Spruce Pine AS.. ..,.R c
a er Rescource,
State / Zip Code NC / 28777f . 1E
Telephone Number [phone] AUG 10 �
Fax Number [phone]
Water Quality Regional Operations
4. Ownership Status: Ashavi}ie
Federal ❑ State ❑ Private ® .. .. Public ❑
Page 1 of 5 C-MI 10/08

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: 70
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 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
List s 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/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 117,800 (average while primary plant not operating)
Stormwater-monthly average unknown
Other-monthly average
Explain: -72,000 (mine dewatering outfall 002)
Monthly Average -189,800
total discharge (all types)
13. Number of separate discharge points: 2 Outfall Identification number(s) 0018s 002
(numerous stormwater outfalls flow unknown)
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 10108

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 Average Measurement
Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD5) N/A
Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) N/A
Total Organic Carbon N/A
Total Suspended Solids 381 8.94 lb/day
Ammonia as N N/A
Temperature (Summer) N/A
Temperature (Winter) N/A
pH 9.8 N/A
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):
Permit
Type Permit Number Type Number
Hazardous Waste (RCRA) NESHAPS (CAA)
UIC (SDWA) Ocean Dumping (MPRSA)
NPDES NC0000175 Dredge or fill (Section 404 or CWA)
PSD (CAA) Other NC Air Permit 0321OR39
Non-attainment program Mine Permit No. 61-04, NPDES Gen. NCG020793
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 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
• -7 116) 1 s-
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

fl rE e I L
Unimin Corporation — Quartz/Feldspar Facility

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Facility Information Facility r .
t �. X
Latitude: 35955'58" Sub-Basin: 04-03-06 Location
Longitude: 82°06' 11" HUC#:06010108
Quad#: Spruce Pine(D10NE)
Stream Class: C-Trout
Receiving Stream: North Toe River Unimin Corp-Quartz Feldspar Facility
North NC0000175
Permitted Flow: 3.6 MGD I Mitchell Count

NCDENR
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 Permit Renewal
Permit 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,
' � �?;`• lf.�'+d?;�Elr.'ln�°nr-vAa�,y,�-rtx,�,t:rw.,.,� ..
V V re*v 1 kzd�or&
Wren Thedford RECEIVED
'r r Resources Wastewater Branch
B 2Q15cc: Central FilesAsheville Regional Office ^'. ? later,-c a nal,0peratibnsAs e0riaf:"ff"e-
NPDES Unit
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.ncwater.org
An Equal OpportunitytAffirmative Action Employer

xaxe
gg. F- F
in
QUARTZ/FELDSPAR PLANT NOV 1 5 2010
P.O. Box 588
Spruce Pine,NC 28777
Phone: [phone]
WATER QUALITY SECTION
ASHEVILLE REGIONAL OFFICE
Fax: [phone]
4�
NCDENR Division of Water Quality oveinser 0
Environmental Sciences Branch/Aquatic Toxicology Unit
SUBJECT:
Unimin Corporation Quartz/Feldspar Plant
MITCHELL COUNTY,NC
NPDES
Environmental Sciences Branch/Aquatid Toxicology Unit:
This letter is to acknowledge receipt by the Unimin Quartz/Feldspar Plant of 2
Notice of Violations. The first was the result of a failed toxicity test begun July 12 1h 9
2010.Although the contracted laboratory reported a low pH in the first sample submitted,
Unimin operator's documents did not indicate a low pH in the plant effluent. Water
treatment plant operators record effluent pH hourly, and monitor more often if there is
potential for upset. The plant did abide by permit requirements and repeat toxicity
sampling in August and September.
Toxicity sampling was conducted twice in August,2010. The second NOV was
the result a failed test for the week of August 2d,2010. The plant is conducting
intermittent trials of a new flotation circuit and believes that the failure was caused by an
imbalance of flotation reagents and/or water treatment polymer. Corrective measures
have been taken to regulate reagent and polymer dosages.
Full range chronic toxicity samples submitted the week of August 201 were
reported as invalid, as a result of a problem with the control sample at the contract
laboratory-PACE-Asheville. Further tests have been conducted with passing results. The
plant has abided by permit requirements and successfully completed full range chronic
toxicity sampling twice in September. Regular testing was completed in October with
result of Pass.'
If you have any questions concerning this acknowledgement,please contact me at
e-mail address: swilsonaunimin.com.
Sincerel
�
Stephen A Wilson ORC
cc: D. Myers Unimin R. Edwards DWQ Asheville Office
J. Ferguson Unimin J. Menzel' DWQ Asheville Office
D. Mann Unimin NCDENR Central Files
Unimin Environmental Affairs Files

�
NCDENR
North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources
Division of Water Quality
Beverly Eaves Perdue Coleen H. Sullins Dee Freeman
Governor Director Secretary
:a:'�`.�euF?�+$'iazwEi:75V7gar;�!r_'.':KS''«n5';�4M;,4:ri�-.�— :..;�[•,.5•:;G
? ,� w.r...,.�.rc n;C..,,r,.1�`wSr.;l.;Y:..;:li:c-i•.....
3,
=;eptet,�•ibet= 9,20,1,f1;.` �'' � U � , .
CERTIFIED MAIL: 7002 3 150 0003 7052 3712 F.
RETURN RECEIPT REQUESTED }
.... OCT — 4 2010 I '
Mr.Jeff Ferguson :Y
Engineer/Environmental Consultant A X '
Unimin Corp. : E' ASHEVILLE
WATER QUALITY SECTION
I� ts• REGIONAI-OFFICE
7638 Hwy.226 N
Spruce Pine,NC 28713
\'.1 i::Y:.tiX.i.'rt.JJa•,i!I`.v�3!wn�tac r.. .n,...•.n•sA.ra�-w- ,...-,..�Y.nro�.
SUBJECT: NOTICE OF VIOLATION
Whole Effluent Toxicity(WET)Testing
NPDES Permit No:1C00'O;OiU7r1
Quartz Operation
Mitchell County
Dear Mr. Ferguson:
This is to inform you that a review of your toxicity self-monitoring report form for the month VU
2010 ui'dtcates a violation of the
toxicity limitation specified in your NPDES Permit. °x=
You should take whatever remedial actions are necessary to eliminate the conditions causing the effluent toxicity violation(s). Your
efforts may include conducting a Toxicity Reduction Evaluation (TRE), a site-specific study designed to identify the causative agents
of effluent toxicity, isolate the sources of toxicity,evaluate the effectiveness of toxicity control options, and confirm reductions in
effluent toxicity. Please be aware that North Carolina General Statutes provide for assessment of civil penalties for violations of
NPDES permit limitations and requirements.
The reverse side of this Notice contains important information concerning your Whole Effluent Toxicity Monitoring and Reporting
Requirements. Please note appropriate mailing addresses for submitting your Discharge Monitoring Reports (DMRs) and Aquatic
Toxicity (AT) Test Forms. We encourage you to review this information; if it would be helpful to discuss this situation or possible
solutions to resolve effluent toxicity noncompliance,please contact Mr. John Giorgino with this office at(919) 743- 8441.
Sincerely,
,�A a-�
Cindy Moore
Supervisor,Aquatic Toxicology Unit
cc: age• -U aids- shevillle Regional
Jeff Menzel-Asheville Regional Office
Aquatic Toxicology Unit
Central Files
Environmental Sciences Section
1621 Mail Service Center,Raleigh,North Carolina 27699-1621 One 1
Location:4401 Reedy Creek Road,Raleigh,North Carolina 27607 North Qtrofiiia
Phone:[phone] FAX:[phone] Customer Service:1-877-623-6748
Internet:hUp://h2o.enr.state.nc.us/esb!
An Equal Opportunity+.Affirmative Action.Employer

WHOLE EFFLUENT TOXICITY MONITORING AND REPORTING INFORMATION
➢ The following items are provided in an effort to assist you with identifying critical and sometimes overlooked toxicity testing and reporting
information. Please take time to review this information.The items below do not address or include all the toxicity testing and reporting
requirements contained in your NPDES permit. If you should have any questions about your toxicity testing requirement,please contact Mr.
.John Giorgino with the Aquatic Toxicology Unit at(919)743-8401 or another Unit representative at the same number.
➢ The permittee is responsible for ensuring that toxicity testing is conducted according to the permit requirement and that toxicity report forms are
appropriately tiled. .
➢ The reporting of whole effluent toxicity testing data is a dual requirement. All toxicity test results must be entered(with the appropriate
parameter code)on your monthly Discharge Monitoring Report which is submitted to:
North Carolina Division of Water Quality
v I,. Central Files
1617 Mail Service Center
Raleigh,NC 27699-1617
IN ADDITION
Toxicity test data(original"AT"form)must be submitted to the following address:
North Carolina Division of Water Quality
Environmental Sciences Section
1621 Mail Service Center
Raleigh,North Carolina 27699-1621
➢ Toxicity test results shall be filed with the Environmental Sciences Section no later than 30 days after the end of the reporting period
(eg,January test result is due by the end of February).
➢ Toxicity test condition language contained in your NPDES permit may require use of multiple concentration toxicity testing upon failure of any
single quarterly toxicity test. If the initial pass/fail test fails or if the chronic value is lower than the permit limit,then at least two multiple
concenuration toxicity tests(one per month)will be conducted over the following two months. As many analyses as can be completed will be
accepted. ll'your NPDES permit does not require use of multiple concentration toxicity testing upon failure of any single quarterly test, you
may choose to conduct either single concentration toxicity testing or multiple concentration toxicity testing per the Division's WET enforcement
initiatives effective.July I, 1999. Follow-up multiple concentration toxicity testing will influence the Division's enforcement response.
➢ Toxicity testing months are specified by the NPDES Permit,except for NPDES Permits which contain episodic toxicity monitoring
requirements(eg,if the testing months specified in your NPDES permit are March,.Tune,September,and December,then toxicity testing must
be conducted during these months).
➢ If your NPDES Permit specifies episodic monitoring and your facility does not have a discharge from January 1-June 30,then you must provide
written notification to the Environmental Sciences Section by.June 30 that a discharge did not occur during the first six months of the calendar
year.
➢ If you receive notification from your contract laboratory that a test was invalidated,you should immediately notify the Environmental Sciences
Section at(919)743-8401 and provide written documentation indicating why the test was invalidated and the date when follow-up testing will
occur.
➢ If your facility is required to conduct toxicity testing during a month in which no discharge occurs,you should complete the information block
located at the top of the AT form indicating the facility name,permit number,pipe number,county and the month/year of the subject report.
You should also write"No Flow"on the AT form,sign the form and submit following normal procedures.
➢ The Aquatic Toxicity Test forms shall be signed by the facility's Operator in Responsible Charge(ORC)except for facilities which have not
received a facility classification. In these cases,a duly authorized facility representative must sign the,AT_fdi•m: TWA—T dorm anusri}al'so be
signed by the performing lab supervisor.
➢ To determine if your AT test forms were received on time by the Division of Water Quality,you may consider submitting your toxicity test
results Certified mail.return receipt requested to the Environmental Sciences Section.
Environmental Sciences Section
1621 ivlail Service Center,P,aleiah,North Carolina 27699-1621 One
Location:4401 Reedy Creek Road.Raleigh,North Carolina 27607 NortllCarolina
Phone:[phone] FAX:[phone] Customer Service:1.877-623-6748 n
Internet:http:llh2o.enr.state.nc.us/esb!
An Equal Opportunity':Affirmative Action Employer

, a?
North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources
Division of Water Quality
Beverly Eaves Perdue Coleen H. Sullins Dee Freeman
Governor Director Secretary
�Q.zto be 42W, ON'
CERTIFIED MAIL: 7002 3150 0003 7052 3774
RETURN RECEIPT REQUESTED
Mr. Stephen Wilson
Unimin Corp.
P.O.Box 588 ~'
Spruce Pine,NC 28777
SUBJECT: NOTICE OF VIOLATION
Whole Effluent Toxicity(WET)Testing
i 'NPDES Permit No N'COQQQT 75`
Quartz Operation
Mitchell County
Dear Mr. Ferguson:
This is to inform you that a review of your toxicity self-monitoring report form for the month o�Zgwsfinn icates a violation of
the toxicity limitation specified in your NPDES Permit.
You should take whatever remedial actions are necessary to eliminate the conditions causing the effluent toxicity violation(s). Your
efforts may include conducting a Toxicity Reduction Evaluation (TRE), a site-specific study designed to identify the causative agents
of effluent toxicity, isolate the sources of toxicity,evaluate the effectiveness of toxicity control options, and confirm reductions in
effluent toxicity. Please be aware that North Carolina General Statutes provide for assessment of civil penalties for violations of
NPDES permit limitations and requirements.
The reverse side of this Notice contains important information concerning your Whole Effluent Toxicity Monitoring and Reporting
Requirements. Please note appropriate mailing addresses for submitting your Discharge Monitoring Reports (DMRs) and Aquatic
Toxicity (AT) Test Forms. We encourage you to review this information; if it would be helpful to discuss this situation or possible
solutions to resolve effluent toxicity,noncompliance,please contact Mr. John Giorgino with this office at(919) 743- 8441.
herel ,
indy Moore
Supervisor,Aquatic Toxicology Unit
cc: Roger = 6rds-Asheville Regional Office
Jeff Menzel-Asheville Regional Office
Aquatic Toxicology Unit
Central Files
li
i
OCT 2 9 2010
Environmental Sciences Section
1621 Mail Service Center,Raleigh,North Carolina 27699-1621 WATER QUALITY SECTION
Location:4401 Reedy Creek Road,Raleigh,North Carolina 27607 ASHEV!LLE FG _)'��AL OFFICE
Phone:[phone] FAX:[phone],Customer Service:1-877-623-6748 --- Or 11 ill O1.lna
Internet:hUp://h2o.enr.state.nc.us/esbl
An Equal Opportunity!Affirmative Action Employer U

WHOLE EFFLUENT TOXICITY MONITORING AND REPORTING INFORMATION
➢ The following items are provided in an effort to assist you with identifying critical and sometimes overlooked toxicity testing and reporting
information. Please take time to review this information.The items below do not address or include all the toxicity testing and reporting
requirements contained in your NPDES permit. If you should have any questions about your toxicity testing requirement,please contact Mr.
.John Giorgino with die Aquatic Toxicology Unit at(919)743-8401 or another Unit representative at the same number.
➢ The permittee is responsible for ensuring that toxicity testing is conducted according to.the permit requirement and that toxicity report forms are
appropriately filed.
➢ The reporting of whole effluent toxicity testing data is a dual requirement. All toxicity test results must be entered(with the appropriate
parameter code)on your monthly Discharge Monitoring Report which is submitted to:
North Carolina Division of Water Quality
Central Files
1617 Mail Service Center
Raleigh,NC 27699-1617
IN ADDITION
Toxicity test data(original"AT"form)must be submitted to the following address:
North Carolina Division of Water Quality
Environmental Sciences Section
1621 Mail Service Center
Raleigh,North Carolina:27699-1621
➢ Toxicity test results shall be filed'with the Environmental Sciences Section no later than 30 days after the end of the reporting period
(eg,.January test result is due by the end of February).
➢ Toxicity test condition language contained in your NPDES permit may require use of multiple concentration toxicity testing upon failure of any
single quarterly toxicity test. if the initial pass/fail test fails or if the chronic value is lower than the permit limit,then at least two multiple
concentration toxicity tests(one per month)will be conducted over the following two months. As many analyses as can be completed will be
accepted. If your NPDES permit does not require_use of multiple concentration toxicity testing upon failure of any single quarterly test, you
may choose to conduct either single concentration toxicity testing or multiple concentration toxicity testing per the Division's WET enforcement
initiatives effective July 1, 1999. Follow-up multiple concentration toxicity testing will influence the Division's enforcement response.
➢ Toxicity testing months are specified by the NPDES Permit,except for NPDES Permits which contain episodic toxicity monitoring
requirements(eg, if the testing months specified in your NPDES permit are March,.Lune,September,and December, then toxicity testing must
be conducted during these months).
➢ If your NPDES Permit specifies episodic monitoring and your facility does not have a discharge from January 1-June 30,then you must provide
written notification to the Environmental Sciences Section by June 30 that a discharge did not occur during the first six months of the calendar
year.
➢ If you receive notification from your contract laboratory that a test was invalidated,you should immediately notify the Environmental Sciences
Section at(919)743-8401 and provide written documentation indicating why the test was invalidated and the date when follow-up testing will
occur.
➢ If your facility is required to conduct toxicity testing during a month in which no discharge occurs,you should complete the information block
located at the top of the AT form indicating the facility name,permit number,pipe number,county and the month/year of the subject report.
You should also write"No Flow"on the AT form,sign the form and submit following normal procedures.
➢ The Aquatic Toxicity Test forms shall be signed by the facility's Operator in Responsible Charge(ORC)except for facilities which have not
received a facility classification. In these cases,a duly authorized facility representative must sign the AT form. The A*fo�m£ni6stalso be
signed by the performing lab supervisor.
➢ To determine if your AT test forms were received on time by the Division of Water Quality,you may consider submitting_your toxicity test
results certified mail.return receipt requested to the Environmental Sciences Section.
Environmental Sciences Section
1621 Mail Service Center,Raleigh,North Carolina 27699-1621 One
Location:4401 Reedy Creek Road,Raleigh,North Carolina 27607 Nor thCarolina
Phone:[phone] FAX:[phone] Customer Service:1-877-623-6748 �p
Internet:http://h2o.enr.state.nc.us1esb/ Naturally
An Equal Opportunity 1 Affirmative Action Employer 6/

4
4-TOA
NCDENR
North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources
Division of Water Quality
Beverly Eaves Perdue Coleen H. Sullins Dee Freeman
Governor Director Secretary
CERTIFIED MAIL: 7002 3150 0003 7052 3781
RETURN RECEIPT REQUESTED
Mr. Stephen Wilson
Unimin Corp.
P.O. Box 588
Spruce Pine,NC 28777
SUBJECT: NOTICE OF VIOLATION
Whole Effluent Toxicity (WET)Testing
NPDES Permit No.N_CQ00:0s.5
Quartz Operation
Mitchell County
Dear Mr. Wilson:
This is to inform you that a review of your toxicity self-monitoring report form for the monthofcelul'y _07i0 indicates a violation of the
toxicity limitation specified in your NPDES Permit.
You should take whatever remedial actions are necessary to eliminate the conditions causing the effluent toxicity violation(s). Your
efforts may include conducting a Toxicity Reduction Evaluation (TRE), a site-specific study designed to identify the causative agents
of effluent toxicity, isolate the sources of toxicity, evaluate the effectiveness of toxicity control options, and confirm reductions in
effluent toxicity. Please be aware that North Carolina General Statutes provide for assessment of civil penalties for violations of
NPDES permit limitations and requirements.
The reverse side of this Notice contains important information concerning your Whole Effluent Toxicity Monitoring and Reporting
Requirements. Please note appropriate mailing addresses for submitting your Discharge Monitoring Reports (DMRs) and Aquatic
Toxicity (AT) Test Forms. We encourage you to review this information; if it would be helpful to discuss this situation or possible
solutions to resolve effluent toxicity noncompliance,please contact Mr. John Giorgino with this office at(919) 743-8441.
6indy
�n,erely
M re
/ 1
Supervisor, Aquatic Toxicology Unit
cc: oger�Ed-�wa dsshevr�lle'lt�egtona'1�a�ff.ce t>; ` ^T r^ _
Jeff Menzel-Asheville Regional Offrtce n
Aquatic Toxicology Unit v
Central Files
OCT 2 9 2010
Environmental Sciences Section WATER Ot 1/AL1TY SECTION
1621 Mail Service Center,Raleigh,North Carolina 27699-1621 Pci :;LLE pE�'O�jeL OFr10E
Location:4401 Reedy Creek Road,Raleigh,North Carolina 27607
Phone:[phone] FAX:[phone] Customer Service:1-877-623-6748QIlhCaTO�_111c3
Intemet:http://h2o.enr.state.nc.us/esbl
An Equal opportunity 1 Affirmative Action Employer i�

WHOLE EFFLUENT TOXICITY MONITORING AND REPORTING INFORMATION
➢ The following items are provided in an effort to assist you with identifying critical and sometimes overlooked toxicity testing and reporting
information. Please take time to review this information.The items below do not address or include all the toxicity testing and reporting
requirements contained in your NPDES permit. If you should have any questions about your toxicity testing requirement,please contact Mr.
John Giorgino with the Aquatic Toxicology Unit at(919)743-8401 or another Unit representative at the same number.
➢ The permittee is responsible for ensuring that toxicity testing is conducted according to the permit requirement and that toxicity report forms are
appropriately filed.
➢ The reporting of whole effluent toxicity testing data is a dual requirement. All toxicity test results must be entered(with the appropriate
parameter code)on your monthly Discharge Monitoring Report which is submitted to:
North Carolina Division of Water Quality
Central Files
1617 Mail Service Center
Raleigh,NC 27699-1617
IN ADDITION
Toxicity test data(original"AT"form)must be submitted to the following address:
North Carolina Division of Water Quality
Environmental Sciences Section
1621 Mail Service Center
Raleigh,North Carolina 27699-1621
➢ Toxicity test results shall be filed with the Environmental Sciences Section no later than 30 days after the end of the reporting period
(eg. .January test result is due by the end of February).
➢ Toxicity test condition language contained in your NPDES permit may require use of multiple concentration toxicity testing upon failure of any
single quarterly toxicity test. If the initial pass/fail test fails or if the chronic value is lower than the permit limit,then at least two multiple
concentration toxicity tests(one per month)will be conducted over the following two months. As many analyses as can be completed will be
accepted. If your NPDES permit does not require use of multiple concentration toxicity testing upon failure of any single quarterly test, you
may choose to conduct either single concentration toxicity testing or multiple concentration toxicity testing per the Division's WET enforcement
initiatives effective July 1, 1999. Follow-up multiple concentration toxicity testing will influence the Division's enforcement response.
➢ Toxicity testing months are specified by the.NPDES Permit,except for NPDES Permits which contain episodic toxicity monitoring
requirements(eg, if the testing months specified in your NPDES permit are March,June,September,and December, then toxicity testing must
be conducted during these months).
➢ If your NPDES Permit specifies episodic monitoring and your facility does not have a discharge from January I-June 30,then you must provide
written notification to the Environmental Sciences Section by June 30 that a discharge did not occur during the first six months of the calendar
year.
➢ If you receive notification from your contract laboratory that a test was invalidated,you should immediately notify the Environmental Sciences
Section at(919)743-8401 and provide written documentation indicating why the test was invalidated and the date when follow-up testing will
occur.
➢ If your facility is required to conduct toxicity testing during a month in which no discharge occurs,you should complete the information block
located at the top of the AT form indicating the facility name,permit number,pipe number,county and the month/year of the subject report.
You should also write"No Flow"on the AT form,sign the form and submit following normal procedures.
➢ The Aquatic Toxicity Test forms shall be signed by the facility's Operator in Responsible Charge(ORC)except for facilities which have not
received a facility classification. In these cases,a duly authorized facility representative�must sigrrthe.AT form. The AT-form must alsb be
signed by the performing lab supervisor.
➢ To determine if your AT test forms were received on time by the Division of Water Quality,you may consider submitting your toxicity test
results certified mail,return receipt requested to the Environmental Sciences Section.
Environmental Sciences Section
1621 Mail Service Center,Raleigh,North Carolina 27699-1621 UC1C
Location:4401 Reedy Creek Road,Raleigh,North Carolina 27607 �OI't11CaI 01111i1
Phone:[phone] FAX:[phone] Customer Service:1-877-623-6748
Internet:http://h2o.enr.state.nc.us/esb/ aturil jli/
An Equal Opportunity t Affirmative Action Employer 'J

�� ► FILE 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
May 18, 2010
Mr. Andrew G. Bradley, VP,Environmental Affairs
Unimin Corporation
258 Elm Street
New Canaan, Connecticut 06840
Subject: NOTICE OF VIOLATION
NOV-2010-MV-0067
Permit NoNrr 0;00;0175z
Quartz Operation WWTP
Mitchell County
Dear Mr. Bradley:
A review of Quartz Operation's monitoring report for September 2009 showed the following
violations:
Parameter Date Measuring Violation
Frequency
Solids, Settleable 09/12/2009 5 X week Failure to Monitor
Solids, Settleable 09/19/2009 5 X week Failure to Monitor
Solids, Settleable 09/26/2009 5 X week Failure to Monitor
Reminder. Holidays should be clearly marked on the appropriate monthly DMRs.
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 to Raleigh at the address found on
the front page of your DMR.
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 8281296-4600.
Sincerely,
Roger C. Edwards, Regional Supervisor
Surface Water Protection Section
c 2 DW+QzAlsft euille1F
DWQ Central Files
Jeffrey Ferguson/ Unimin
S:\SWP\MitchelllWastewater\Industrial\Unimin Quartz 00175\NOV-2010-MV-0067.doc Noe
Carolina
Ntura!!y
North Carolina Division of Water Quality 2090 U.S.Highway 70 Swannanoa,N.C. 28778 Phohe(828)296-4500 Customer Service
Internet: www.ncwaterauality.ora FAX [phone] 1-877-623-6748

C"14 44
unimin
QUARTZ/FELDSPAR PLANT
P.O. Box 588
Spruce Pine,NC 28777
Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Date: 7/31/2009
To: J.Ferguson
CC: D. Myers
From: S. Wilson
Subject: QFP SPCC Training September 2008 f/'L
SPCC training was completed at the Quartz/Feldspar Plant September 301b
2008. The local plant policy was reviewed by myself with attendees at employee
information meetings held that day. It is reviewed annually at the plant as part of
Environmental Awareness training,as mandated by our training plan. Completion
of the training is documented in QFP Steering Team meeting minutes dated
October 6a',2008.
E C E 0 U E } :
z
f
' 1
AUG - 5 2009 `
WATER QUALITY SECTION

DEC 18 2008
®1 -d4
®�
:j;;� ®ew WATER QUALIT
ASHEVILLE Y SECTION
Environmental Affairs REGIO
NAL OFFICE
Unimin Corporation
136 Crystal Drive•Spruce Pine,NC Z8777
(PHONE)828/766-6081•(FAX)828/765-4755
December 16, 2008
CERTIFIED MAIL
RETURN RECEIPT REQUESTED
Mr. Roger C. Edwards,Regional Supervisor
Surface Water Protection
NCDENR—Division of Water Quality
2090 U.S. Highway 70
Swannanoa,NC 28778
Subject: Notification of By-Pass
Unimin Corporation tQuartz/Feldspa4Facility
Spruce/P^,in/ree,,,North {C�arooJlina, Mitchell County
Dear Mr. Edwards:
Pursuant to my email to you on December 4,2008 please note the following As
you are aware sae Qccurred at:Unimin Corporation's Quartz/Feldspar;Facili (Air Permit
M -�
No. 3210R36) at approximately 10:50 p.mon:November 29,A200$ The fire was
extinguished by approximately 3:00 am Sunday morning The facility was shutdown, and no
plant personnel were injured.
The amount of chemicals released to the environment is unknown;however, the
maximum amount of chemicals involved in the fire are estimated as follows:
amine (50/50 mixture with diesel fuel) —7,000 gallons
sodium hydroxide <3,000 gallons
polymer <3,500 gallons
hydrofluoric acid <300 gallons
sulfuric acid <300 gallons
petroleum sulfonate <165 gallons
fuel oil <250 gallons
used oil <175 gallons
The majority of sodium hydroxide,polymer,hydrofluoric acid,and sulfuric acid are
believed to have been contained in the emergency pond;however,an unknown amount of
these chemicals may have been released to the stream due to the fire suppression water.

a :a
Mr. Roger Edwards
December 16, 2008
Page 2
At the direction of the local Emergency Management Team,an under-flow dam was
created in Little Bear Creek to help minimize the impact to the stream. According to the
EPA OSC report from Benjamin Franco,he estimated that—1 million gallons of fire
suppression water was used to extinguish the fire. The pH was —10-12 flowing to the e-
pond,while the e-pond contained a pH of 4-6, the overflow into Little Bear Creek was 5-6
and the pH of the stream was 6-7. Downstream in the N.Toe River near Penland Bridge,
approximately 25 dead fish (bottom feeders) from 1" to 10"were noted while the pH in this
area was 8.
If you have any questions regarding this matter or require further information,
please do not hesitate to contact me at [phone] ext. 13. Thank you for your
cooperation in this matter.
Sincerely,
Jeffrey S. Ferguson,P. E.
Environmental Engineer
UNIMIN CORPORATION
c: EA Files;Drew Bradley,Karl Kuchta,Doug Myers,Steve Wilson

F WAIF Michael F.Easley,Governor
William G.Ross Jr.,Secretary
North Carolina Department of ronment and Natural Resources
Cp E Coleen H.Sullins,Director
r" _ . .
] Division of Water Quality
O 'C
Asheville Regional Office
SURFACE WATER PROTECTION
November 4, 2008
Carl Horvat
Unlmi.n-C-OlpOfation --
PO Box 588
Spruce Pine NC 28777
SUBJECT: Compliance Evaluation Inspection
Quartz Operation
Permit No: ?I\1000001�7-5
Mitchell County
Dear Mr. Horvat:
Enclosed please find a copy of the Compliance Evaluation Inspection Report from
the inspection, which I conducted at the facility on October 21, 2008. The facility was
found to be in Compliance with permit NC0000175.
Please refer to the enclosed inspection report for additional observations and
comments. The assistance provided by Steve Wilson and Jeff Ferguson during the
inspection was greatly appreciated. If you or your staff have any questions, please do
not hesitate to contact me at 828-296-4500.
Sinc I
Keith Hayn
Environmental Senior Specialist
Enclosure
cc: Stephen Andrew Wilson, ORC
Central Files
Asheville Files
G:\WPDATA\DEMWQ\Mitchell\Unimin Quartz 00175\10-21-08CEI.doc NochCarolina
vatara!(y
2090 U.S.Highway 70, Swannanoa,NC 28778 Telephone:[phone] Fax:[phone] Customer Service 1 877 623-6748

'y
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 I n,l 2
._J I 11 12I 08/10/21
117 18L 1911=SI 20
jI Remarks
2111111111 11111111 1111 1111111111111111111111111111
Inspection Work Days Facility Self-Monitoring Evaluation Rating 81 QA -------------------------Reserved--------------------
67 69 7Q w _4. 71 72 I-N 5 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)
10:00 AM 08/i0/21 08/03/01
Quartz Operation
NC Hwy 226 N Exit Time/Date Permit Expiration Date
Spruce Pine NC 28777 11:30 AM 08/10/21 11/02/28
Name(s)of Onsite Representative(s)/Titles(s)/Phone and Fax Number(s) Other Facility Data
Stephen Andrew Wilson//828-688-4266 /
Stephen Andrew Wilson/ORC/828-765-4283/
Name,Address of Responsible Officialfritle/Phone and Fax Number
Contacted
Carl Horvat,PO Box 588 Spruce Pine NC 28777//704-765-4283/
No
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 Findin /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
Keith Haynes ARO WQ//828-296-4500/ T
Signature of Management Q A Reviewer Agency/Office/Phone and Fax Numbers Date
Roger C Edwards ARO WQ//828-296-4500/
EPA Form 3560-3(Rev 9-94)Previous editions are obsolete.
Page# 1

NPDES yr/mo/day Inspection Type (cont.) 1
3I N00000175 I11 12I 08/10/21 I17 18I0I
Section D: Summary of Finding/Comments(Attach additional sheets of narrative and checklists as necessary)
The facility appeared to be properly operated and adequately maintained. It is suggested that the tubing on
the effluent composite sampler be changed. It is also important that ice be kept in the effluent sampler to
assure that the sample temperature is maintained at six degrees C or less.
It was noted that some fine particulate matter had collected in the river at the discharge point. This appears
to be due to low stream flow and the collection of some materials from the KT waste pile, which apparently
entered the river, via Little Bear Creek, during the area's last tropical storm. This had diverted the river flow
=- away==from=the-unimin=oUtfall7and-had7caused=a-quiescent-area-in=the-river°at-the-outfall�°This-issuewill____
need to be addressed next spring after the trout spawning season.
Page# 2

Permit: NC0000175 Owner-Facility: Quartz Operation
Inspection Date: 10/21/2008 Inspection Type: Compliance Evaluation
Operations& Maintenance Yes No NA NE
Is the plant generally clean with acceptable housekeeping? ❑ ❑ ❑
Does the facility analyze process control parameters,for ex: MLSS,MCRT,Settleable Solids,pH, DO,Sludge ❑ ❑ ® ❑
Judge, and other that are applicable?
Comment:
Permit Yes No NA NE
(If the present permit expires.in 6 months or less). Has the permittee submitted a new application? ❑ ❑ ❑
Is the facility as described in the permit? ® ❑ ❑ ❑
#Are there any special conditions for the permit? ❑ ❑ ® ❑
Is access to the plant site restricted to the general public? ! ❑ 0 ❑
Is the inspector granted access to all areas for inspection? l ❑ ❑ ❑
Comment:
Secondary Clarifier Yes No NA NE
Is the clarifier free of black and odorous wastewater? ❑ ❑ Is ❑
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? ® ❑ n ❑
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'/4 of the sidewall depth) ® ❑ ❑ ❑
Comment:
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? ® ❑ ❑ ❑
If effluent (diffuser pipes are required) are they operating properly? ® ❑ ❑ ❑
Comment:
Flow Measurement-Effluent Yes No NA NE
Page# 3

y
Permit: NC0000175 Owner-Facility: Quartz Operation
Inspection Date: 10/21/2008 Inspection Type: Compliance Evaluation
Flow Measurement-Effluent Yes No NA NE
#Is flow meter used for reporting?
Is flow meter calibrated annually? ® Q 0
Is the flow meter operational? ® ❑ 11 11
(If units are separated) Does the chart recorder match the flow meter? 00019
. Comment: - - - - - - - - - - - - �- - -- . ---- -- -
Page# 4

October 6,2008 cc: Karl Kuchta
Doug Myers
To: File Darren Mann
Jeff Hicks
From: Sharon Blankenship Steve Wilson
Virginia Miller
Cathy Hall
Roger Wyatt
Subject:—Quartz—Felds ar Steering Team Meeting Minutes Richard Sparks
H L O O O a 1 7 Nathan Duncan
On September 23,2008 at 1:00 pm a Steering Team meeting was held at the Quartz-Feldspar Plant.Attendees
included Doug Myers,Darren Mann,Cathy Hall,Jeff Hicks, Steve Wilson,Virginia Miller,Nathan Duncan and
Roger Wyatt.The following is a summary of all other business discussed.
Customer Complaints:
The Steering Team reviewed all customer complaints that'are currently open at the Quartz—Feldspar Plant.Listed
below is the status of all open customer complaints:
41-08-002 = Mansfield Plumbing is complaining because after several short loads they determined that the truck
scales at Unimin were not accurate.Mansfield is sending Unimin truck scale documenting that loads have been short
since July,2008.Once the plant has evidence of the root cause the Plant Manager will write a Root Cause Analysis
Report.
41-08-003 = C.D.I.is complaining because they ordered 16.25 tons of Unispar 50 and 5 tons of Unispar 40 but
received 21.25 tons of Maxum F-4 material.C.D.I.has found another customer to purchase the material but will not
get the Unispar 50 price.Correct product has been sent to C.D.I.and a Root Cause Analysis Report will be written.
Corrective/Preventive Actions:
The Steering Team reviewed all open corrective actions during the previous Steering Team meeting.Listed below is
the status of all open corrective action reports.
CAR2008-QUFD-0006: = Corrective action report was written because no Job Descriptions are in the Location
Policies and Procedures Manual for the Mine Superintendent or the Regional Sales/Operations Secretary.The Mine
Superintendent position is now on the Schoolhouse Plant Organization Chart.A request has been made with
Corporate to correct the Organization Chart for the Regional Sales/Operations Secretary position since this is not the
corrective title.This corrective action is open.
CAR2008-QUFD-0009: = Corrective action report was written because the Control,Revision and Review
procedure is not being followed for the Process Instruction Sheets.The annual review is two months overdue,the
revision dates on procedures do not match the Index,no section control forms are in place except for bagging,which
is dated incorrectly and the employee roster in place is obsolete.The Shift Supervisor's and the QC/Environmental
Affairs Supervisor is in the process of making the necessary corrections.This corrective action is open.
CAR2008-QUFD-0010: = Corrective action report was written because sample procedures that are part of the
recently revised Process Instruction Sheets have not been approved by the Unimin Analytical Services Laboratory
Representative.The QC/Environmental Affairs Supervisor will verify that all sampling procedures have been
approved by the UASL Representative.This corrective action is open.
Employee Meetings:
The 31d quarter employee meeting is scheduled for September 3001.The agenda of the meeting is shown below:
• Environmental Awareness Refresher Training
• Quality/Production and Safety Issues

�a
! i m'n
QUARTZ/FELDSPAR PLANT
DATE: September 26, 2008
TO: Quartz/Feldspar Plant Employees
FROM: Doug Myers
SUBJECT: Employee Meetings— September 30t'
The Quartz/Feldspar Plant will hold employee informational meetings on Tuesday, September
30t' at 7:00 am, 2:00 pm, and 3:00 pm. The purpose of these meetings is to review the status of
business, plant production and shipping issues, quality issues, and environmental awareness.
Please arrange to attend one of these sessions.

Quartz - Feldspar Plant 2008 Training Plan Course oat His Page 1
Employee Position Course Code Corn i q Ac Comments
Doug Myers Plant Manager Administrative Dr- _.-,r Recovery Plan P 9/8 1
NC 0 D DO 1
6 , 7 5 CIP Awareness Training P 6/8 1 1
Drug/Alcohol Refres a aining P 4/8
EnvironrnentaiAware P 18
onthly Safety Meetings P 12/8 12 12
MSHA Annual Refresher Training P 12/8 8 8
Sexual Harassment and Workplace P 8/8 1 1
Fire Security Plan Refresher Training P 12/8 1 1
Presentation Skills Workshop 1 16 Cancelled
Management Development 1 9/8 24 24
Darren Mann Superintendent Administrative Disaster Recovery Plan P 9/8 1 1
CIP Awareness Training P 2/8 1 1
Drug/Alcohol Refresher Training P /8-
'Monthly Safety Meetings P 12/8 12 12
MSHA Annual Refresher Training P 12/8 8 8
Sexual Harassment and Workplace P 818 1 1
Fire Security Plan Refresher Training P 12/8 1 1
Density Separator 1 20 Cancelled
Presentation Skills 1 16 Cancelled
ORC Continuing Education Training O 8/8 6 6
Jeff Hicks Mine Supv. Administrative Disaster Recovery Plan P 9/8 1 1
CIP Awareness Training P 3/8 1 1
Drug/Alcohol Refresher Training P 4/8 1 1
En iro rnen al Awareness
—Monthly Safety Meetings P 12/8 12 12
MSHA Annual Refresher Training P 12/8 8 8
Sexual Harassment and Workplace P 8/8 1 1
Fire Security Plan Refresher Training P 12/8 1 1
XRF Training 1 10/8 24 24
CIP and QIP Awareness 1 12/8 2 2
CIP and QIP Startup 1 12/8 8 8
CIP Team Building 1 12/8 16 16
Density Separator 1 20 Cancelled
Supervisory Skills 1 7/8 16 16
Steve Wilson QC Environ. CIP Awareness Training P 6/8 1 1
Affairs Supv. Drug/Alcohol Refresher Training
Envir m, n a, ness
Monthly Safety Meetings P 12/8 12 12
MSHA Annual Refresher Training P 12/8 8 8
Sexual Harassment and Workplace P 818 1 1
Fire Security Plan Refresher Training P 12/8 1 1
Visible Emissions Evaluator"Opacity"Training O 3/8 0 16
Sub-Surface Waste Water Certification O 16 Cancelled
ORC Continuing Education Credits O 8/8 6 6
Access Training O 3/8 0 8
XRF Training 1 10/8 24 24
Emergency Response EMTECH O 10/8 24 24
Automation and Process Control 1 20 Cancelled
Admin Disaster Recovery P 9/8 1 1
Nathan Duncan QQ/Shipping Admin Disaster Recovery P 9/8 1 1
Supervisor CIP/ISO Awareness P 2/8 1 1
Drug/Alcohol Refresher Training P 4/8 1 1
Env"man ental A Wines :efreshe raining 9/8
Monthly Safety Meetings P 12/8 12 12
Hazardous Material Refresher Training P 1/8 1 1
MSHA Annual Refresher Training P 12/8 8 8
Sexual Harassment and Workplace Violence P 8/8 1 1
Fire Policy Refresher Training P 12/8 1 1
Management Development Seminar 1 9/8 24 24

Quarti- Feldspar Plant 2008 Training Plan Course Date Hrs Hrs Page 2
Emoloyee Position Course Code Como I Act Comments
Supervisor Skills 1 7/8 _ 8
Andy Greene Shift Supv. Administrative Disaster Recovery Plan P 9/8 1 1
CIP Awareness Training P 6/8 1 1
} Druo/Alcohi a esher Training P 4/8 1 1
! vironmenta arenes
Monthly Safety Meetings P 12/8 12 12
MSHA Annual Refresher Training P 12/8 8 8
Sexual Harassment and Workplace P 8/8 1 1
Fire Security Plan Refresher Training P 12/8 1 1
ORC Continuing Education Credits O 8/8 6 6
CIP and QIP Awareness 1 12/8 2 2
CIP and QIP Start-Up 1 12/8 8 8
CIP Team Building 1 12/8 16 16
Density Separator 1 20 Cancelled
College Level Business/Management Training O 12/8 18 18
Allan Willis Shift Supv. Administrative Disaster Recovery Plan P 9/8 1 1
CIP Awareness Training P 6/8 1 1
Dru'g) hol Refreshe -raining P 418
Irn 1
vr nm gtal renes P 9J8
Monthly Safety Meetings P 12/8 12 12
MSHA Annual Refresher Training P 12/8 8 8
Sexual Harassment and Workplace P 8/8 1 1
Fire Security Plan Refresher Training P 12/8 1 1
CIP and QIP Awareness 1 12/8 2 2
CIP and QIP Start-Up 1 12/8 8 8
CIP Team Building 1 12/8 16 16
Supervisory Skills Seminar 1 7/8 16 16
Dane Christman Shift Supv. Administrative Disaster Recovery Plan P 9/8 1 1
CIP Awareness Training P 6/8 1 1
=nviranmental Awareness P 9/8 2 2
Monthly Safety Meetings P 12/8 12 12
MSHA Annual Refresher Training P 12/8 8 8
Sexual Harassment and Workplace P 8/8 1 1
Fire Security Plan Refresher Training P 12/8 1 1
CIP and QIP Awareness 1 1218 2 2
CIP and QIP Start-Up 1 12/8 8 8
CIP Team Building 1 12/8 16 16
Supervisory Skills Seminar 1 7/8 16 16
Richard Sparks Safety&Health Administrative Disaster Recovery Plan P 9/8 1 1
Supervisor CIP Awareness Training P 6/8 1 1
Drug/Alcohol' a bgr.IjAining P 4/8
uriro m ,t P 998 2
slow
onthly Safety Meetings P 1218 12 12
MSHA Annual Refresher Training P 12/8 8 8
Sexual Harassment and Workplace P 8/8 1 1
Fire Security Plan Refresher Training P 12/8 1 1
Safety and Health Workshop 1 6/8 24 24
North Carolina State Safety Workshop O 4/8 24 24
Roger Wyatt Maint.Superv. Administrative Disaster Recovery Plan P 9/8 1 1
CIP Awareness Training P 6/8 1 1
Drug/Alcohol Refresher Training P 4/8 1 1
Era' 'ronrnent I Awareness
Monthly Safety Meetings P 12/8 12 12
MSHA Annual Refresher Training P 12/8 8 8
Sexual Harassment and Workplace P 8/8 1 1
Fin:Security Plan Refresher Training P 12/8 1 1
Fundamentals of Environmental Compliance 1 6/8 16 16
Air Operated Double Diaphragm Pump Tech 0 5/8 0 8

Quarti - Feldspar Plant 2008 Training Plan Course Date Hrs Hrs Page 3
Einolovee Position Course Code Comp �,` Act Comments
Virginia Miller Regional Office Administrative Di _.,rr Recovery Plan P 9/8 1
Supervisor CIP Awareness Training P 6/8 1 1
Dru lco of Refresher Training P 4/8 1 1
nuro ental A ateness P 9(8 2
Monthly Safety Meetings P 12/8 12 12
MSHA Annual Refresher Training P 12/8 8 8
Sexual Harassment and Workplace P 8/8 1 1
Fire Security Plan Refresher Training P 12/8 1 1
Microsoft Office 2007 0 16 Cancelled
North Carolina Tax Training P 6/8 0 8
Patty Elkins Secretary, Administrative Disaster Recovery Plan P 9/8 1 1
Sales/RGM CIP Awareness Training P 6/8 1 1
Drug/Alcoho Re .esher Training P 4/8 1 1
Environmental saes P 9/.8 2 2
Monthly Safety Meetings P 12/8 12 12
MSHA Annual Refresher Training P 12/8 8 8
Sexual Harassment and Workplace P 818 1 1
Fire Security Plan Refresher Training P 12/8 1 1
Microsoft Office 2007 0 5/8 16 16
Basictintermediate Accounting College Level 0 12/8 6 6
Dianna Gouge Payroll/ Administrative Disaster Recovery Plan P 9/8 1 1
A/P Clerk CIP Awareness Training P 6/8 1 1
Drug/Alcohol Refresher Training P 4/8 1 1
nvronme tal'A areness P 918 20210
ont ly Safety Meetings P 12/8 12 12
MSHA Annual Refresher Training P 12/8 8 8
Sexual Harassment and Workplace P 8/8 1 1
Fire Security Plan Refresher Training P 12/8 1 1
Microsoft Office 2007 0 5/8 16 16
North Carolina Tax Training P 6/8 0 8
Joy Keller Shipping Clerk Administrative Disaster Recovery Plan P 9/8 1 1
CIP Awareness Training P 618 1 1
Drug/Alcohol Refresher Training P 4
E vironm areaes W /8 2
Monthly Safety Meetings P 12/8 12 12
MSHA Annual Refresher Training P 12/8 8 8
Sexual Harassment and Workplace P 8/8 1 1
Fire Security Plan Refresher Training P 12/8 1 1
Microsoft Office 2007 0 4/8 16 16
North Carolina Tax Training P 6/8 0 8
Hourly Operators and CIP Awareness Training P 6/8 43 43
Maintenance En is n enta Awareness
Monthly Safety ee mgs P 2/8 516 516
MSHA Annual Refresher Training P 12/8 344 344
Sexual Harassment and Workplace P 8/8 43 43
Fire Security Plan Refresher Training P 1218 43 43
Hourly(3) Maintenance Electrical License 0 4/8 24 24
Hourly(3) Maintenance PLC Training 0 9/8 72 72
Hourly(5) Maintenance Emergency Response(EMTECH) 0 10/8 120 120
Hourly(2) Maintenance Air Operated Double Diaphragm Pump Tech 0 5/8 0 16
Hourly(1) Operator College Level Business/Management Training O 1218 18 18
Totals 2257 2193 Percent Complete- 97%

F W A TF.
Michael F.Easley,Governor
William G.Ross Jr.,Secretary
r North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources
4 'C Colleen H.Sullins,Director
Division of Water Quality
August 25, 2008
152
.... Mr. Steve Wilson
Unimin 7Qtaartz FeldsparOperations
P.0 Box 588
Spruce Pine, NC 28777
SUBJECT: North Carolina Wastewater%Groundwater Laboratory Certification (NC WW%GW LC)
Maintenance,Inspection F,
Dear Mr. Wilson:
Enclosed is a report for the inspection performed on July 30, 2008 by Mr. Jason Smith
and myself. Where finding(s) are cited in this report, a response is required. Within 30 days of
receipt, please supply this office with a written item for item description of how these finding(s)
were corrected. For certification maintenance, 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.
Sincerely,
Gary Ftancies
Unit Supervisor AUG 2 $ 200$
Laboratory Sectio
s.I
CC: Jason Smith ` WATER QUALITY SECTION
Asheville Regional Office r� ASHEVILLE REGIONAL OFFICE
Enclosure o.
Nn,�,o_,�th a rohpa:
North Carolina Division of Water Quality 1623 Mail Service Center Raleigh,NC 27609-1623 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%Recycled110%Post Consumer Paper

On-Site Inspection Report
LABORATORY NAME: Unimin Quartz Feldspar Operations
NPDES.PERMIT#: NC0000175
ADDRESS: PO Box 588
Spruce Pine, NC 28777
CERTIFICATE#: 152
DATE OF INSPECTION: July 80,2008
TYPE OF INSPECTION: Industrial Maintenance
AUDITORS: Jason Smith, Gary Francies
LOCAL PERSON CONTACTED: Steve Wilson
I. INTRODUCTION:
This laboratory was inspected to verify its compliance with the requirements of 15A NCAC 2H .0800 for the
analysis of environmental samples.
if. GENERAL COMMENTS:
The staff is congratulated for doing a good job of maintaining the laboratory certification program
requirements with new personnel. The laboratory is spacious and well equipped. All equipment is well
maintained. Records are well kept and most data appeared accurate. Some further quality control
procedures are needed.
Comment: Findings G, H and M are new policies that have been implemented by our program since the last
inspection.
III. FINDINGS, REQUIREMENTS, COMMENTS AND RECOMMENDATIONS:
General Laboratory
A. Finding: The laboratory thermometers are not calibrated against a certified thermometer annually.
Requirement: All thermometers must meet NIST specifications for accuracy or must be calibrated
against a NIST certified or NIST traceable thermometer annually and proper corrections made and
documented. Ref: 15A NCAC 2H .0805(a) (7) (0).
Comment: The laboratory uses NIST traceable thermometers; however, the suggested calibration
date was May, 2008. The thermometers must be replaced or calibrated against a NIST certified or
traceable thermometer to ensure accuracy.
B. Finding: The temperature of the refrigerator used for sample storage is not recorded.
Requirement: Each day an incubator, oven, waterbath, or refrigerator is used, the temperature
must be checked, recorded,and initialed. Ref: 15A NCAC 2H .0805 (a)(7)(J).
C. Finding: The analytical balance is not checked with three standard weights quarterly.

Page 2
#152 Unimin Quartz Feldspar Operations
Requirement: The analytical balance must be checked with one class S, or equivalent, standard
weight each day used and at least three standard weights quarterly. The values obtained must be
recorded in a log and initialed by the analyst. Ref: 15A NCAC 2H .0805 (a) (7)(K).
Documentation
D. Finding: A log book is needed to record the dates chemicals are received and opened, as well as the
preparation of reagents.
-Requirement: Chemicals must be dated when received and when opened. Reagents must be
...dated and initialed when prepared. Ref: 15A NCAC 2H .0805 (a) (7) (L).
Requirement: Supporting records shall be maintained as evidence that these practices are being
effectively carried out. All analytical records must be available for a period of five years. Ref: 15A
NCAC 2H .0805(a)(7)(G).
— --Commant, All:c:emicals;:reagents and :consumables used-by the-laboratory musf have the following
information documented: Date, received, Date Opened (in use), Vendor, Lot Number, and Expiration
Date (where specified). A system must be in place that links standard/reagent preparation information
to analytical batches in which the solutions are used. Documentation of solution preparation must
include the analyst's initials, date of preparation, the volume or weight of standard(s) used, the solvent
and final volume of the solution. This information as well as the vendor, manufacturer, lot number, and
expiration date must be retained for primary standards, chemicals, reagents, and materials used for a
period of five years. Consumable materials such as pH buffers, lots of pre-made standards'and/or
media, solids and bacteria filters, etc.are included in this requirement.
Quality Control
E. Finding: The laboratory is not consistently calculating and documenting the acceptability of duplicate
samples.
Requirement: Each laboratory shall develop and maintain a document outlining the analytical quality
control practices used for the parameters included in their certification. Supporting records shall be
maintained as evidence that these practices are being effectively carried out. Ref: 15A NCAC 2H
.0805(a)(7).
Settleable Residue-Standard Methods,20th Edition,2540 F`
F. Finding:The analysis date is not documented.
Requirement: All laboratories must use printed laboratory bench worksheets that include a space to
enter the signature or initials of the analyst, date of analyses, sample identification, volume of sample
analyzed, value from the measurement system, factor and final value to be reported and each item
must be recorded each time samples are analyzed. Ref: 15A NCAC 2H .0805(a)(7) (H).
pHH,-Standard Methods,20th Edition,4500 H+B
G. Finding:The temperature of the sample is not documented.
Requirement: Always report temperature at which pH is measured. Ref: Standard Methods, 20th
Edition,4500 H+B. 1. b.
H. Finding: The temperature sensing device on the pH meter has not been calibrated against a NIST
certified or traceable thermometer.

Page 3
#152 Unimin Quartz Feldspar Operations
Requirement: All thermometers must meet National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)
specifications for accuracy or be checked, at a minimum annually (every twelve months), against a
NIST traceable thermometer and corrections made. Ref: 15A NCAC 2H .0805 (a)(7) (0).
Comment: See attached guidance for more information.
I. Finding: The Automatic Temperature Compensator(ATC) has not been verified.
Requirement: The ATC must be verified annually (i.e., every twelve months) by analyzing a buffer
---. -at 25°C (the-temperature.that pH values are compensated to) and a temperature(s)that bracket the
.temperature ranges of the samples to be analyzed. This may require the analysis of a third
temperature reading' that is >25 °C. Ref: North Carolina Wastewater/Groundwater Laboratory
Certification (NC WW/GW LC) Policy.
Comment: Anticipated temperatures can be obtained from a review of the Discharge Monitoring
Reports .(DMRs).from the peak summer and winter months. Historical data should provide an
::estima#ion-of-rangesahat:wili bracketthe:expected sample temperatures.- ...:. ..:.....___-_____._.__.-__,.__....._.......
Comment:See enclosed directions for verifying the ATC.
Fluoride-Standard Methods,20th Edition,4500 F'C
J. Finding: Distillation comparisons are being performed; however some are not acceptable.
Requirement: Municipal and Industrial Laboratories shall analyze initially four samples distilled and
undistilled from each discharge and, thereafter, analyze two samples a year from each effluent.
Additional samples must be analyzed comparatively if the above samples results do not indicate
approximately the same values for distilled and undistilled samples. Ref: Federal Register, March
12, 2007; 40 CFR 136.3 Table IB, Footnote 6. Please submit a copy of the distillation
comparison for one additional effluent sample and two downstream samples that have been
spiked.
Comment: The distilled versus undistilled comparison study results are unacceptable. It appears
this is due to the low concentration of the samples used.
Recommendation: Spike the samples to a concentration of at least 1 to 5 mg/L.
Total.Suspended Solids -Standard Methods,201h Edition,2540 D
K. Finding:The filters are not washed prior to sample analysis.
Requirement: The glass fiber filter disks, inserted wrinkle side up, must be washed with three
successive 20 mL portions of reagent grade water, dried, and cooled prior to sample analysis. Ref:
Standard Methods,20`h Edition,2540 D.3.a.
L. Finding:The annual multiple weighing to verify the adequacy of the drying time is not performed.
Requirement: Repeat the cycle of drying, cooling, desiccating, and weighing until a constant weight
is obtained or until the weight change is less than 4% of the previous weight or 0.5 mg,whichever is
less. Constant weights must be documented. Ref: Standard Methods, 20th Edition,2540 D. 3. c.
Comment: Samples representing each matrix type encountered by the laboratory must be included
in the annual study.

Page 4
#152 Unimin Quartz Feldspar Operations
M. Finding: The facility is using a minimum dried residue weight gain of 1 mg to determine the
reporting limit.
Requirement: Choose sample volume to yield between 2.5 and 200 mg dried residue. If volume
filtered fails to meet minimum yield, increase sample volume up to 1 L. If complete filtration takes
more than 10 minutes increase filter diameter or decrease sample volume. Ref: NC WW/GW policy
based upon Standard Methods, 20thand 21st Editions, 2540 D. 3. b.
Comment: Since the publication of the March 12, 2007 Code of Federal Regulations; 40 CFR Part
136; Vol:72; No: 47, there is no longer an approved method that allows for-a 1 mg weight gain:- -
. Currently the minimum weight gain allowed is 2.5 mg. If the.weight of the dried residue is < 2.5 mg,
the result must be:reported as,less than the value obtained when 2.5 mg is used in the formula. For
: .:.example, if 500 mL of sample.is analyzed-and <2.5 mg of dried residue is obtained,the value reported
would be < 5 mg/L. The minimum reporting value is now 2.5 mg/L based upon a sample volume used
of 1000 mL.
-:--- ,,--.--N--:.=-Findings.The_filters-are-not-.washed after-sample analysis:
Requirement: Wash filter with three successive 10 mL volumes of reagent grade water, allowing
complete drainage between washings, and continue suction for about three minutes after filtration is
complete. Samples with high dissolved solids may require additional washings. Ref: Standard
Methods, 20th Edition, 2540 D. 3. c.
O. Finding: A standard is not analyzed as required.
Requirement: Analyze one suspended residue, one dissolved residue, one-residual chlorine and
one oil and grease standard quarterly. Ref: 15A NCAC 2H .0805 (a) (7)(B).
Comment: Purchase a standard or see enclosed directions for preparing a standard.
IV. PAPER TRAIL INVESTIGATION:
The paper trail consisted of comparing laboratory bench sheets to Discharge Monitoring Reports (DMRs)
submitted to the North Carolina Division of Water Quality. Data were reviewed for February, 2008. No
transcription errors were detected. The facility appears to be doing a good job of accurately transcribing
data.
V. CONCLUSIONS:
Correcting the above-cited findings and implementing the recommendations will help this lab to produce
quality data and meet certification requirements. The inspectors would like to thank the staff for its
assistance during the inspection and data review process. Please respond to all findings.
Report prepared by:Jason M. Smith Date:August 5, 2008
Report reviewed by:Tony Hatcher Date:August 11, 2008

TEMPERATURE CORRECTION
To check a thermometer or the temperature sensor of a meter, read the temperature of the
thermometer/meter against a NIST thermometer and record the two temperatures. The
thermometer/meter readings must be less than or equal to 1 °C from the NIST thermometer reading.
In the documentation include the serial number of the NIST thermometer or traceable thermometer that
was used in the comparison. Also document any correction that applies on both the thermometer/meter
and on a separate sheet to be filed.
Recommendation: Use a NIST calibrated thermometer.that approximates the temperature range on
.each thermometer used with an incubator, refrigerator, or freezer. You may borrow such a thermometer,
but`keep a copy of the traceable to-NIST certificate on file to show the inspector. -
Automatic Temperature Compensator (ATC) Check Procedure for pH meter
The following-mustlbe performed ori"an annual`(i.e:, '12 month)6bsis: '
1. Pour an adequate amount of buffer into a beaker or other container and analyze at 25 'C.
Document the temperature and pH value.
2. Lower the temperature of the buffer by placing the container in cool water or a refrigerator to less
than the lowest anticipated sample temperature and analyze. Document the temperature and'pH
value.
3. If samples greater than 25 °C are to be analyzed, perform the following additional step: Place the
container in warm water, or a water bath and raise the temperature above 25 °C to greater than
the highest anticipated sample temperature and analyze. Document the temperature and pH
value.
As the temperature increases or decreases, the value of the buffer must be within±0.1 S.U. of the true
value of the buffer.
TSS Quality Control Standard
To prepare a TSS check standard from dry reference material:
1. Dry a portion of Whatman Ashless Powder in the TSS oven and cool in desiccator.
2. On an analytical balance, weigh approximately 0.1000 g (100 mg) of the dry powder, put in
1000 mL volumetric flask, and bring to the mark with distilled or deionized water. Shake
vigorously until well suspended.
3. The weight in milligrams that was put into 1000 mL of water is the true value concentration of
the standard. For example if 97.2 mg (0.0972 g) was weighed, 97.2 mg/L is the true value. Do
not worry about getting exactly 100 mg weight.
4. Analyze as a normal sample.

c--)S �_� o ' O J S s
�70 � y

L
5 ,,.. ,r ,: rY;x.,.•. . a,.•. CERTIFIED MAIL
uni
Quartz Operation 1 1�
P. O. Box 588
DEC 1 7 2007 `�� r�s
Bakersville Hwy. ;
Spruce Pine, NC 28777
[phone] -
Fax: [phone] VVATER QUALITY(sr_cTIC. : I
P`�1 l_LE P,2-ro P.L OFFU��__�..
December 6,2007 t :,, •, ,.- ,. z _
NC DENR
Division of Water Quality
Interchange Building
59 Woodfin Place
Asheville,NC 28808
Attn: Mr. Keith Haynes
Dear Mr.Haynes,
This correspondence is to confirm earlier verbal notification,made by Mr.
Jeff Ferguson, of a discharge event at Unimin's Quartz Feldspar`plant.on 12/03/07.
During that day, an unintentional discharge from the plants emergency pond
occurred during contracted routine maintenance activity. The operator accidentally
struck a 6" drain line,which resulted in discharge to Little Bear Creek, beginning at
approximately 1:00 pm and curtailed at or before 1:40 pm that same afternoon.
The discharge had pH of 8.90,and Fluoride level of 3.38 ppm. Although
some visible sedimentation was observed,we do not believe there to be any adverse
impact on the stream. Upstream and downstream samples taken the following
morning revealed pH,Fluoride, and turbidity of 7.41, 1.57,3.4, and 7.42,2.20, 4.2,
respectively. Unimin is making every effort to ensure this type of event does not
occur again in the future. The drain line has been plugged and operators will be
reminded to look for pipes and drain lines prior to excavating.
Please do not hesitate to contact me directly if you require any additional
information.
Yours Truly,
Stepheft Wilson ORC
QC/Environmental Affairs Supervisor
Quartz/Feldspar Plant
Unimin Corporation

.Environment airs Department
unimin SCE
Unimin Corporation j
9 ?_007
136 Crystal Drive•Spruce Pine,NC 28777 NOV -
(PHONE) 828/766-6081•(FAQ 828/765-4755
WATER QUALITY SECTION
A ILLE REGIONAL OFF,(Qcto er 9, 2007
CERTIFIED MAIL
RETURN RECEIPT FXQUESTED ® 2gBRAIVCH
Ms.Jackie Nowell OCT
1NCDENR-Division of Water Quality 1617 Mail Service CenterRaleigh,North Carolina 27699-1617 Of"•WATPOINT SOURC
Subject OPP Comments Regarding Pesticides
Unimin Corporation's Quartz/Feldspar Facility
NPDES Permit NC000017.5:=
Dear Ms.Nowell:
Please note the attached letter from Terry Albrecht, P.E., Waste Reduction Parters
Program Director, NC Division of Pollution Prevention and Environmental Assistance,
regarding permit limits imposed for Heptachlor and Lindane contained in the NPDES
Permit issued to Unimin Corporation's Quartz/Feldspar Facility effective November 1,
2006.
Mr. Albrecht, along with Elaine Martin and Park Flick of Waste Reduction Partners
met with Mitch Snyderman and myself of Unimin on February 13, 2007. We reviewed the
entire facility and discussed operation practices conducted at the plant and mining During
our inspection of the facility, there were no issues that arose that may indicate pesticide use
or creation on site or in any of our processes. As you will note from the Review Summary
contained in the attached letter, the Waste Reduction Partners agree that none of Unimin's
raw materials, mined residues, processing reagents used in the flotation and product
isolation processes,wastewater treatment chemicals, or any other onsite chemical use could
be the sources of lindane or heptachlor found in effluent analyses. The Waste Reductiion
Partners further agree.that any traces of these pesticides must already be present in influent
water,which have, in fact, been detected in the source—influent water from the North Toe
River.
Since the permit was issued last November, we have experienced only one hit for
lindane in November, 2006. The result was 0.11 ppb just above the lab detection limit of
0.09 ppb. Although the lab results are unreliable at such low levels,we still believe that the
pesticides are due to stormwater runoff from the numerous Christmas tree farms located
upstream in both Avery&Mitchell counties.

Ms.Jackie Nowell
October 9,2007
Page 2
Unimin continues to protest the imposition of effluent limitations for Lindane and
Heptachlor due to the fact that any positive analyses for these pesticides are beyond our
control. Unimin will continue to monitor for these pesticides as per the NPDES effluent
monitoring requirement, however, per permit stipulations, within 12 months of sampling
these pesticides Unimin will request that your Division review the data to determine if
reasonable potential to exceed the allowable concentration exists. The Division should
concur with the Waste Reduction Partners and remove the sampling requirements from the
permit.
If you have any questions or require further information, please do not hesitate to
contact me at [phone] ext. 13.
Sincerely,
Jeffrey S. Ferguson,P. E.
Environmental Engineer
UNIMIN CORPORATION
c: EA Files;Carl Horvat;Mitch Snyderman

a "�1
NCDENR
North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources
Division of Pollution Prevention and Environmental Assistance
Michael F. Easley, Governor William G. Ross Jr., Secretary
Gary Hunt, Director .
March 5, 2007 G ,c,Aec
y
Jeff Ferguson
Environmental Engineer
Unimin
P.O. Box 588
136 Crystal Drive
Spruce Pine, NC 28711 . -
Re: Review of Lindane and Heptachlor Detection in Unimin-Wastewater
Dear Mr. Ferguson,
The following report summarizes our findings and feedback during the February 13, 2007, on-
site visit and facility review at Unimin. ,
Summary: On-site Assessment Findings & Next Steps:
On February 13, 2007 a Waste Reduction Partners/NCDPPEA team of engineers and .
scientists visited the'Unimin, Spruce Pine, facility to review the issue of sporadic detection of
heptachlor and lindane in their NPDES permitted wastewater discharge. Based on ourreview
of the facility and practices, it is our opinion that Unimin is not contributing any amount of
lindane or heptachlor constituents from their facility operations, processes, or wastewater
treatment.
The sales and use of heptachlor, an insecticide, have been banned for many years, and
Unimin has not detected heptachlor in recent years. Sales of lindane, another highly-effective
insecticide, were banned about 5 years ago, but farmers can still use existing supplies.
Lindane has been detected in Unimin's source intake water from the North Toe River.
NCSU's.Cooperative Extension agents have confirmed that some of the approximately 300
Christmas tree farmers in.this watershed are still legally using on-hand supplies'of lindane.
As an outreach approach to the issue of lindane detection.in the North Toe River, the NCSU
Cooperative Extension agents have agreed to make tree farmers in Mitchell and Avery
counties aware ofthis issue, proper practices and precautions, and disposal options for any
remaining lindane supplies. This outreach is to be conducted through their outreach
publications to farmers in these.counties, through IPM workshops and other training
opportunities. Cooperative Extension agents have also made NCDA Pesticide Inspectors in
these counties aware of this issue. .
No"rthCarolina 1639 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, North Carolina 27699-1639
�aturall� Phone: [phone] FAX: [phone] Internet: www.p2pays.org
An Equal Opportunity 1 Affirmative Action Employer-100%Recycled 1100%Post Consumer Paper

-- - On-site Visit Background-
On February 13, 2007, the Waste Reduction.Partners (WRP) program members met with
Unimin - Spruce Pine staff,Jeff Ferguson and Mitch Snyderman, to explore reasons for the
.occasional detections of lindane and heptachlor in their NPDES wastewater discharge.
Representatives,from WRP included WRP Director& NC Division of Pollution Prevention and
.Environmental Assistance (DPPEA) staff member, Terry Albrecht, PE; Elaine Martin, Ph.D., a
retired research chemist with WRP; and Parke Flick, Ph.D., a retired biochemist serving with
WRP.
Unimin requested the visit per the NC Division of Water Quality's suggestion that a third party
review the insecticide detection issue and provide feedback.
Unimin provided the DPPEA/WRP team with all pertinent records of analytical sampling
results for both discharge wastewater and intake water; raw material usage information,
ISDS,'and other research documents collected about lindane and heptachlor production and,
their uses.
Unimin Raw Material Review
In an effort to ascertain possible sources of lindane and heptachlor contamination periodically
found in Unimin wastewater, the raw materials used in Unimin's manufacturing process were
revealed and reviewed with Waste Reduction Partners scientists and engineers during the
meeting. Most of these materials are inorganic chemicals produced commercially in very
large quantities and provided to Unimin in bulk.. Lindane and heptachlor are both organic
chlorine compounds. None of the inorganic raw materials in use by Unimin even contain
chlorine and it is quite unreasonable that they would be contaminated with these very specific
pesticide materials produced by totally different methods. Indeed, neither lindane nor
heptachlor is currently produced in the United States, although some old stocks of these now-
banned-Chemicals still exist.Of the two classes of organic raw materials used by Unimin, neither contains chlorine or
aromatics, both of which would be expected if lindane and heptachlor contamination were
originating in them. The fact that lindane and heptachlor contamination has been found in the
intake water for Unimin's process strongly suggests that this is the source of the
contamination.
Unimin personnel are completely aware of each of the raw materials in use at their facility and
have dealt continuously with only a few reputable suppliers. Unimin personnel have also
reviewed ancillary use chemicals and MSDS, finding no causal effects. It is the opinion.of
Waste Reduction Partners that none of these materials could reasonably.be a source of
lindane and heptachlor.contamination in Unimin wastewater.
Unimin Wastewater Treatment Review
A tour of the wastewater treatment facility was taken with UNIMIN environmental
professionals, and a review of reagents used, processing adjustments, and daily monitoring
was conducted.

ri
Environmental personnel at UNIMIN are vigilant toward all aspects of wastewater quality.
Their awareness of factors influencing process water purity is very evident. Consistently and
effectively removing contaminants and meeting permit limits are major objectives. The water
treatment process is efficientand well-controlled. It accomplishes a thorough removal of the
processing chemicals.used in mineral separation and purification.
Best Available Technology Currently Applied in Wastewater Treatment
To treat the very large volumes of water required for the mineral separation; UNIMIN is using
the best available and practical technology. Progress to decrease the volume of process water
needed has already been significant. Further efforts to streamline the system through reuse of
process water are underway. We conclude that UNIMIN has been conscientious in their
action to ensure the best effluent water quality within their capabilities. They continue,to
develop novel enhancements to their purification process.
No Potential for Insecticide Contamination in Mined Materials
There have been no changes.in the footprint for the mineral quarries where raw materials are
extracted. There are no agricultural activities in the vicinity of the 'restricted access' quarries
where minerals are mined, thus ruling_ out that the Unimin ore itself would be contaminated
with these insecticides.
Unimin Review Summary:
None of Unimin's raw materials, mined residues, processing reagents used in the flotation and
product isolation processes, wastewater'treatment chemicals, or any other onsite chemical
use could be the sources of lindane or heptachlor found in effluent analyses. Any traces of
these pesticides must already be present in influent water, which have, in fact, been detected
in their source—influent water from the North Toe River.
Next Steps to Address Known Agricultural Sources of Lindane and Heptachlor
The sale and use of heptachlor, an insecticide, have been banned for many years,-and Unimin
has not detected heptachlor in recent years. Sales of lindane, another highly-effective
insecticide, were banned about 5 years ago,'but farmers can still use existing supplies.
Lindane-has been.detected in Uni'min's source intake water from the North Toe River.
NCSU's Cooperative Extension agents have confirmed that some of the 300 Christmas tree
farmers in this watershed are still legally using on-hand supplies of lindane.
As an outreach approach to the issue of lindane detection in the North Toe River, the NCSU
Cooperative Extension agents have agreed to make tree farmers in Mitchell and Avery
counties aware of this issue, proper practices, and disposal options for any remaining lindane
supplies. This outreach is to be conducted though their outreach publication to farmers in
these counties, through IPM workshops and other training events. They have also made
NCDA Pesticide Inspectors in these counties aware of this issue.

Please let us know if we can be of further assistance.
Since.el,
Terry Albrecht, PE
WRP Program Director
NC Division of Pollution Prevention and Environmental Assistance
Land-of-Sky Regional Council — Partnership

[Fwd: Quartz Pesticides] 0 as
Subject: [Fwd: Quartz Pesticides]
From: Keith Haynes <[e-mail]>
Date: Thu, 15 Jun 2006 11:16:29 -0400
To: Roger Edwards<[e-mail]>
Jeff Ferguson's notes.
Keith Haynes - [e-mail]
North Carolina Dept. of Environment and Natural Resources
Asheville Regional Office
Division of Water Quality - Water Quality Section
2090 U.S. 70 Highway
Swannanoa, NC 28778
Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Subjec�__Quar-tz=Pesti"c des i
From: [e-mail]
Date: Thu, 15 Jun 2006 10:19:10 -0400
To: [e-mail]
Keith,
Per our telephone discussion, heptachlor has only been detected once in the
Quartz intake water on 8/20/04 at 0.027 ug/1 and only three hits in the
effluent water on 9/25/04 (0.10 ug/1) , 9/29/04 (0.056 ug/1) and 11/30/04
(0.041 ug/1) . No further hits have been detected in the intake or effluent
throughout 2005 and 2006 while sampling both twice per month. Please see
the following 9/05 fact sheet: http://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/tfactsl2.html
Heptachlor is a manufactured chemical that does not occur naturally, use
was ceased in 1988 and now can only be used for fire ant control in
transformer boxes, and can stay in soil and water for many years.
Hopefully Raleigh guys will agree there is nothing we can do to maintain
compliance for this chemical that we have no control over, and appears to
be on the level of DDT. In addition, this issue should be noted to the
Drinking water guys because the Town of Spruce Pine supplements their
drinking water with N. Toe River water, and of course only one grab sample
for pesticides are taken once every three years. Thanks for your help with
this matter,
Jeff
Keith Haynes <Keith.Haynes@,,ncmail.net> '
NC DENR-Asheville Regional Office
Division of Water Quality-Water Quality Section
Content-Type: message/rfc822
,Quartz Pesticides ;
Content-Encoding: 7bit
1 of 1 6/15/2006 11:42 AM

`Environmental Affairs Department
UnI In
Unimin Corporation Q E `V E V
136 Crystal Drive •Spruce Pine,NC 28777
(PHONE)828/766-6081 •(FA)q 828/765-4755 MAY I a 2f�(�520
Y
WATER QUALITY SECTION
CERTIFIED MAIL ASNvI.LLE REGIONAL OFFICE
RETURN RECEIPT REQUESTED
Ms.Jacquelyn Nowell
NCDENR- Division of Water Quality
1617 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, North Carolina 27699-1617
Subject: Unimin Corporation,— uartz/Feldspar Facility
NPDES Permit&C00001:75.
Mitchell County, North Carolina
Dear Ms. Nowell:
Please be advised that Unimin Corporation is jplanningareopemng of the:htgh=
puntyr quartz{proc se s nz g�ope at'o'ns,locatedat;'the Quartz/Feldspar:Facility located in
Spruce Pine, North Carolina. Please seethe attached Press Release dated May 3,2005. The
high-purity quartz processing equipment at this locationT-I sj been;shut down,sine
eeriib=rr19�9 Since that time, the facility has concentrated only on the production of
feldspar products. This reopening will not affect the Iota Plant, located at this site. The
Iota Plant will remain shut down at this time.
If you have any questions or require further information, please do not hesitate to
call me at [phone] ext. 13.
Sincerely,
Jeffrey S. Ferguson, P. E.
Environmental Engineer
UNIMIN CORPORATION
c: EA Files;Carl Horvat Karl Kuchta;Mitch Snyderman
r. o e t elwaxds, JUater Qualft Se°t tiu,� IJtS . Ah y 7Q;{S7annauoa Is @ 28 8��

. j p` qn-a `
For fiuther information contact:
Joseph C. Shapiro
Unimin Corporation Unimin Corporation
258 Elm Street, New Canaan, CT 06840 258 Elm Street
Phone: [phone] Telex: 99-6355 New Canaan,CT 06840
Fax: [phone] or 203-972-1870 Phone: [phone]
Direct Fax: [phone]
Email:[e-mail]
2 PAGES TOTAL
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 3,2005. Unimin Corporation,a New Canaan,Connecticut-based industrial minerals
company,announced today that it is planning the full reopening of the primary quartz
processing portion of its high-purity quartz processing facilities that are currently
mothballed at its Quartz/Feldspar Plant in the Spruce Pine,Mitchell County,North
Carolina area. High-purity quartz processing equipment at this location was temporarily
shut down in December 1998,and has not been operated since then. After 1998,the
Quartz/Feldspar Plant has concentrated only on the production of feldspar products. In
addition,Unimin's on-site laboratory has continued its full operation. The
Quartz/Feldspar Plant is located at South Highway 226 near Spruce Pine,North Carolina.
While quartz production equipment located at that plant has not operated since December
1998, Unimin's nearby quartz and feldspar mine,as well as the Quartz/Feldspar Plant's
feldspar drying, grinding,and shipping facilities and the laboratory on that site,have
remained in operation since that time. High-purity quartz is used in various high
technology industries, including the manufacture of semiconductor components.
(inare)

The work of reactivating the Quartz/Feldspar Plant is commencing immediately at full
speed,and is anticipated to take two months to complete. This plant reopening will
create approximately 10 jobs at the plant. Unimin:Corporation mothballed the quartz
production equipment,and has maintained all its operating permits in good order and full
compliance,with the expectation that it would eventually resume production of high-
purity quartz at the Quartz/Feldspar Plant.
After the 1998 closing of the quartz production portion of the Quartz/Feldspar Plant,
Unimin Corporation's high-purity quartz production facilities have consisted of Unimin's
Crystal Plant in Spruce Pine,Mitchell County,North Carolina,Unimin's Schoolhouse
Plant in Avery County near Spruce Pine,North Carolina,and Unimin's Red,Hill Plant in
Red Hill, Mitchell County,North Carolina. These three plants will continue to operate.
The recommencement of quartz production at the Quartz/Feldspar Plant will bring to four
the number of Unimin Corporation plant facilities that produce high purity quartz.
(End)
2

i
r
- Alp
4i
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
'October 7, 2011
Mr. Karl Kuchta
Unimin Corporation
PO Box 588
Spruce Pine, NC 28777
SUBJECT: Compliance Evaluation Inspection
Quartz/Feldspar Operation WWTP
Permit No: NC0000175
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 NC0000175.
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
cc: Central Files
S:\SWP\Mitchell\Wastewater\Industrial\Unimin Quartz Feldspar 00175\CEI 9-14-11.doc
SURFACE WATER PROTECTION—ASHEVILLE REGIONAL OFFICE One
Location:2090 U.S. Highway 70,Swannanoa, NC 28778 NorthCarolina
Phone: [phone] Fax: [phone] Customer Service: 1-877-623-6748 �iztttt'Q!!t�
Internet:www.ncwater uality.orcKh.

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 I NI 2 151 31 NC0000175 1 11 121 11/09/14 1 17 181 CI 191 S1 20I 11
Remarks
21111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111116
Inspection Work Days Facility Self-Monitoring Evaluation Rating B1 QA -----------Reserved -------
671 1.0 169 70131 711 1 721 N I 73I I 174 751 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 80
Section B: Facility Data �__�__I
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)
Quartz Operation 03:30 PM 11/09/14 08/03/01
NC Hwy 226 N Exit Time/Date Permit Expiration Date
Spruce Pine NC 28777 04:00 PM 11/09/14 11/02/28
Name(s)of Onsite Representative(s)/Titles(s)/Phone and Fax Number(s) Other Facility Data
Stephen Andrew Wilson/ORC/828-765-4283/
Name,'Address of Responsible OfficialTritle/Phone and Fax Number
Carl Horvat,PO Box 588 Spruce Pine NC 28777//704-765-4283/ ContactedNo
Section C: Areas Evaluated During Inspection (Check only those areas evaluated)
Permit 0 Records/Reports 0 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
Wanda P Frazier ARO WQ//828-296-4500 Ext.4662/ /
� e' 1L%rl1 Vn I U G'LSO h f�/� 7) vZ
Signature of Management Q A ReQwer Agency/Office/Phone and Fax Numbers Date
EPA Form 3560-3(Rev 9-94)Previous editions are obsolete.
Page# 1

NPDES yr/mo/day Inspection Type (cont.) 1
3I NC0000175 I11 12I 11/09/14 117 18ICI
Section D: Summary of Finding/Comments(Attach additional sheets of narrative and checklists as necessary)
Facility:
Unimin Corporation - Quartz/Feldspar Operation
Nature of business:
Mining, milling and separation of Alaskite ore to produce feldspar, mica and quartz; high purity
quartz production facility—confidential processes &technology.
SIC code: 1499 Misc Nonmetallic Minerals
WWTP class: Physical Chemical - II
WWTP type: 3.6 MGD mining and material processing plant consisting of the following outfalls:
001 - Process water effluent(North Toe River)
HAW01 - Mine dewatering
002 , HAW03, SC5 through SC8- Stormwater
The WWTP components consisted of:
primary settling tank;
lime [calcium hydroxide- Ca(OH)2] slurry tank with 2 agitators;
lime and acrylamide (Drewfloc 2270®) anionic polymer and cathodic polymer feed systems;
two flocculation/reactor tanks with mixers- out of service;
50 ft and 70 ft diameter circular thickeners;
Eimco Process Equipment Company®disc and horizontal pan filters;
chemical pH adjustment using sodium bicarbonate (Na2 CO3) and (rarely) sulfuric acid (H2SO4);
pH analyzer;
continuous flow recorder and totalizer; and
emergency holding pond (1 acre).
Officials:
Karl Kutchta—Regional General Manager
Doug Myers—Plant Manager
Steve Wilson, Environmental Affairs Supervisor
Jeffrey S. Ferguson, P.E.; Environmental Engineer(office at 136 Crystal Drive; Spruce Pine)
Operator information:
WWTP ORC: Stephen A. Wilson —Cert. #986002—PC- II
WWTP back-up ORCs: Darren W. Mann—Cert. #28626—PC- II
Ricky L. Singleton—Cert.#987053— PC— II
Inspection Summary:
The WWTP facility was closed for maintenance. There was no discharge at the time of the
Page# 2

Permit: NC0000175 Owner-Facility: Quartz Operation
Inspection Date: 09/14/2011 Inspection Type: Compliance Evaluation
inspection. The receiving stream was clear and did not appear to be negatively impacted by the
WWTP operation.
The facility appears to be in compliance with permit conditions.
Discharge Monitoring Reports: Please be sure to enter a "0" (zero) in each data entry box in
the flow column, when "no discharge"occurs.
Page# 3

r
Permit: NC0000175 Owner-Facility: Quartz 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? ■ Q ❑ 0
#Are there any special conditions for the permit? ❑ ■ ❑ ❑
Is access to the plant site restricted to the general public? ■ ❑ fl fl
Is the inspector granted access to all areas for inspection? ■
Comment:
Page# 4

i
E. ,, FILE COPY
Mja . .1.-
NCDENR
North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources
Division of Water Quality
Beverly Eaves Perdue Coleen H. Sullins Dee Freeman
Governor Director Secretary
May 19, 2011
Mr. Andrew G. Bradley, VP, Environmental Affairs
Unimin Corporation
258 Elm Street
New Canaan, Connecticut 06840
Subject: NOTICE OF VIOLATION
NOV-201 1-MV-0097
Permit No. NC0000175
Quartz Operation
Mitchell County
Dear Mr. Bradley:
A review of Quartz Operation's monitoring,report for November 2010 showed the following
violations:
Parameter Date Measuring Violation
Frequency
Oil & Grease Month ending 11/30/2010 Monthly Failure to Monitor
Remedial actions, if not already implemented, should be taken to correct any problem. Since the
comments section on the reverse of the relevant DMR provided an adequate explanation for the subject
violation, it is not requested that a response be submitted: however, should you have additional information
concerning the violations or comments which you wish to present, please submit them to the attention of Janet
Cantwell.
It was noted that the November 2010 DMR was not signed and dated by the Operator in Responsible
Charge as required by your NPDES Permit. Please send an amended and signed/dated 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.
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,
1-0i2 Roger C. Edwards, Regio al Supervisor
Surface Water Protect' n Section
cc' ®�;1NCeuYilleFtle,s
DWQ Central Files
Doug Myers/ Unimin
Stephen Wilson/ORC
S:1SWP1Mitchell\Wastewaterllndustrial\Unimin Quartz 001751NOV-2011-MV-0097.doc NoLCarotina
Aahrra!!y
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

A4 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
February 3, 2011
CERTIFIED MAIL
RETURN RECEIPT REQUESTED 7009 1680 0000 7515 2373
Mr. Andrew G. Bradley, VP,.Environmental Affairs
Unimin Corporation
258 Elm Street
New Canaan, Connecticut 06840
Subject: NOTICE OF VIOLATION
NOV-2011-MV-0031
Permit NoN000001' 5
,Outfall�'G002�'
�Quartz?Operatlo�rt
Mitchell County
Dear Mr. Bradley:
A review of Quartz Operation's Outfall 002 monitoring reports for October 2010, September 2010,
August 2010, July 2010, June 2010, May 2010, April 2010, March 2010, February 2010 and January
2010 showed the following violations:
Parameter Date Measuring Violation
Frequency
Flow, in conduit or thru January 2010 Continuous Failure to Monitor
treatment plant
Flow;in conduit or thru February 2010 Continuous Failure to Monitor
treatment plant
Flow, in conduit or thru March 2010 Continuous Failure to Monitor
treatment plant
Flow, in conduit or thru April 2010 Continuous Failure to Monitor
treatment plant
Flow, in conduit or thru May 2010 Continuous Failure to Monitor
treatment plant
,SAI
Flow, in conduit or thru June 2010 Continuous Failure to Monitor
treatment plant
Flow, in conduit or.thru July 2010 Continuous Failure to Monitor
treatment plant
Flow, in conduit or thru August 2010 Continuous Failure to Monitor
treatment plant Noorthcarolina
VatkrallY
North Carolina Division of Water Quality 2090 U.S.Highway 70 Swannanoa,N.C. 28778 Phone[phone] Customer Service
5< Internet: www.ncwaterguality.orq FAX [phone] 1-877-623-6748

Mr. Andrew G. Bradley
February 3, 2011
Page 2
Flow, in conduit or thru September 2010 Continuous Failure to Monitor
treatment plant
Flow, in conduit or thru October 2010 Continuous Failure to Monitor
treatment plant
Compliance Issue
An Approved Discharge Monitoring Report Form (DMR) is required for each
discharge outfall and each DMR has a second or back/Compliance Status page which is
required to be signed by the permittee. This second Compliance Status/Signature page
is missing from each of the DMRs for Outfall 002.
Please send amended DMRs for the months described above including the back page with the
Compliance Status signed by the permittee within 10 business days of_receipt of this letter to Raleigh
at the address found on the front page of your DMR and also copies to th is office.
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
DWQ Central Files
Jeff Ferguson/Unimin
S:1SWP\MitchelllWastewaterllndustrial\Unimin Quartz 001751NOV-2011-MV-0031.doc