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CERT. .NUMBER
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PdES' PERMIT NUMBER GLJ40680331- OTHER .PERM -IT NO.
ems' STATE FEDERAL DATE ISSUED
DATE ISSUED
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Beverly Eaves Perdue
Governor
HCDENPZ
North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources
Alan R. Schabilion, Owner
Blue Ridge Gem Stone Mine
Post Office Box 327
Little Switzerland, North Carolina 28749
Dear Mr. Schabilion:
Division of Water Qu
Coleen H. Sullins
Director
July 31, 2009
AUG 05 Mul
khovillo negionell Office
Subject: Permit No. WQ0000331
Blue Ridge Gem Stone Mine
Wastewater Recycling System
Mitchell County
Freeman
Secretary
In accordance with your permit owner change request received May 8, 2009, we are forwarding
herewith Permit No. WQ0000331, dated July 31 2009, to Blue Ridge Gem Stone Mine for the continued
operation of the subject wastewater treatment and wastewater recycling facilities.
Please note the owner of the Blue Ridge Gem Stone Mine has been changed from Richard A.
Johnson (deceased) to Alan R. Schabilion. Furthermore, please be aware that our billing records show
that there are overdue fees of $360.00 for this permit. Failure to pay an annual fee after being billed shall
be cause for the Division to revoke the permit.
�c71-7
This permit shall be effective from the date of issuance until September 30,-i@t5 shall void
Permit No. WQ0000331 issued October 10, 2008 and shall be subject to the conditions and limitations as
specified therein. Please pay particular attention to the monitoring requirements of this permit for they
may differ from the previous permit issuance. Failure to establish an adequate system for collecting and
maintaining the required operational information shall result in future compliance problems. .
If any parts, requirements or limitations contained in this permit are unacceptable, the Permittee
has the right to request an adjudicatory hearing upon. written request within 30 days following receipt of
this permit. This request shall 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 at 6714 Mail
Service Center, Raleigh, NC 27699-6714. Unless such demands are made, this permit shall be final and
binding.
AQUIFER PROTECTION SECTION
1636 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, North Carolina 27699-1636
Location: 2728 Capital Boulevard, Raleigh, North Carolina 27604
Phone: [phone] FAX 1: 919-715-0588; FAX 2: 919-715.60481 Customer Service: 1-877-623-6748
Internet: www.ncwatemuality.org
An Equal Opportunity 1 Affirmative Action Employer
Noft Carohna
a '" Y

Mr. Schabilion
July 31, 2009
Page2 of 2
If you need additional information concerning this matter, please contact Alice M. Wessner at
[phone] or [e-mail].
Sincerely,
Cole�ins
cc: Mitchell County Health Department
Ashevih��e RegiQnaL`Qffice Aquifer= P:i_� o n S tion',
APS Central Files
LA- U - -

NORTH CAROLINA
ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT COMMISSION
DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENT AND NATURAL RESOURCES
RALEIGH
WASTEWATER RECYCLE SYSTEM PERMIT
In accordance with the provisions of Article 21 of Chapter 143, General Statutes of North Carolina as
amended, and other applicable Laws, Rules and Regulations
PERMISSION IS HEREBY GRANTED TO
BLUE RIDGE GEM MINE
MITCHELL County
FOR THE
continued operation of a 50,000 gallon per day (GPD) wastewater recycle system consisting of two. solids
settling basins in series (40 ft by 10 ft by 6 ft and 60 ft by 20 ft by 6 ft), a 96 gallons per minute (GPM)
and a 50 GPM recirculation pump, a 100 ft. flume line, an 80 GPM pump which is used to pump make up
water from the abandoned mine, a 90 ft by 105 ft. main pond and all appurtenances to serve the Blue
Ridge Gem Mine with no discharge of wastes to surface waters, pursuant to the application received May
May 8, 2009, and in conformity with the project plans, specifications, and other supporting data
subsequently filed and approved by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources and
considered a part of this permit.
This permit shall be. effective from the date of issuance until September 30, 2013 shall void Permit No.
WQ0000331 issued October 10, 2009 and . shall be subject to the following specified conditions and
limitations:
1. This permit shall become voidable unless the facilities are constructed in accordance with the
conditions of this permit, the approved plans and specifications, and other supporting data.
2. This permit is effective only with respect to : the nature and volume of wastes described in the
application and other supporting data.
3. The facilties shall be properly maintained and operated at all times.
4. The following buffers shall be maintained:
a) 100 feet between the treatment/storage units and any wells,
b) 50 feet between treatment/storage units and surface waters, and
c) 50 feet between treatment/storage units and property lines.
WQ0000331 Version 2.2
Shell Version MMDDYY
Page 1 of 4

Some of the buffers specified above may not have been included in previous permits for this waste
treatment and disposal system. These buffers are not intended to prohibit or prevent modifications, which
are required by the Division, to improve performance of the existing treatment facility. These buffers do,
however, apply to modification of the treatment and disposal facilities that are for the purpose of
increasing the flow that is tributary to the facility. These buffers do apply to any expansion or
modification of the irrigation areas and apply instances in which the sale of the property would cause any
of the buffers now complied with, for the treatment and disposal facilities, to be violated. The applicant is
advised that any modifications to the existing facilities will require a permit modification.
There shall be no public access to the wastewater treatment equipment, wastewater storage structures
or to the wastewater within the wastewater recycle facility.
6. An Operation and Maintenance Plan of the wastewater recycle system shall, be maintained for the
facility and shall contain the following:
a) Description of the operation of the recycle system in sufficient detail to show what operations are
necessary for the facility to function and by, whom the -functions are to. be conducted; .
b) Description of anticipated maintenance of the ;system;
c) Provisions for safety measures, including restriction of access to the site and equipment, as
appropriate;
d) Spill Control provisions including:
i. Response to upsets and bypasses including control, containment, and remediation;
ii. Contact information for plant personnel, emergency responders, and regulatory agencies.
7; This permit isnot transferrable. In the event there is a desire for the facilities to change ownership, or
there is a name change of the Permittee, a formal permit request must be submitted to the Division of
Water Quality accompanied by an application fee, documentation from the parties involved, and other
supporting materials as may be appropriate. The approval of the request will be considered on its
merits and may or may not be approved.
In the event that the facilities fail to perform satisfactorily, including the creation of nuisance
conditions, the Permittee shall take immediate corrective action, including those actions that may be
required by this Division, such as the construction of additional or replacement treatment or disposal
facilities.
9. The residuals generated from these treatment facilities must be disposed in accordance with General
Statute 143-215.1 and in a manner approved by the Division.
10. The issuance of this permit shall not relieve the Permittee of the responsibility for damages to surface
or groundwaters resulting from the operation of this facility.
11. The facilities shall be effectively maintained and operated as a non -discharge system to prevent the
discharge of any wastewater resulting from the operation of this facility.
12. Diversion or bypassing of untreated wastewater from the treatment facilities is prohibited.
13. Preeboard in the settling ponds shall not be less than two feet any time.
14. No wastewater from the mining operation shall be discharged into the abandoned mine shaft at any
time.
WQ0000331 Version 2.2 Shell Version MMDDYY Page 2 of 4

F15. A protective vegetative er shall be established and maintained c 1 earthen basin embankments
(outside toe of embankment to maximum pumping elevation), berms, pipe runs, erosion control areas,
and surface water diversions. Trees, shrubs, and other woody vegetation shall not be allowed to grow
on the earthen basin dikes or embankments. Earthen basin embankment areas shall be kept moved or
otherwise controlled and accessible.
16. Any monitoring deemed necessary by the Division to insure surface and ground water protection will
be established and an acceptable sampling reporting schedule shall be followed.
17. Adequate inspection, maintenance, and cleaning shall be provided by the Permittee to insure proper
operation of the subject facilities.
18. The Permittee or his designee shall inspect the wastewater recycle facilities to prevent malfunctions
and deterioration, operator errors and discharges which may cause or lead to the release of wastes to
the environment, a threat to human health, or a nuisance. The Permittee shall maintain an inspection
log or summary including at least the date and time of inspection, observations made, and any
maintenance, repairs, or corrective actions taken by the Permittee. This log of inspections shall be
maintained by the Permittee for a period of three years from the date of the inspection and shall be
made available to the Division or, other permitting authority, upon request.
19. Any duly authorized officer, employee, or representative of the Division may, upon presentation of.
credentials, enter and inspect any property, premises or place on or related to the recycle system at
any reasonable time for the purpose of determining compliance with this permit, may inspect or copy
any records that must be maintained under the terms and conditions of this permit, and may obtain
samples of groundwater, surface water, or leachate.
20. The annual administering and compliance fee must be paid by the Permittee within thirty (30) days
after being billed by the Division. Failure to pay the fee accordingly may cause the Division to
initiate action to revoke. this permit as specified by 15A NCAC 2H .0205 (c)(4).
21. Failure to abide by the conditions and limitations contained in this permit may subject the Permittee
to an enforcement action by the Division in accordance with North Carolina General Statute 143-
215.6A to 143.215.6C.
22. The issuance of this permit does not exempt the Permittee from complying with any and all statutes,
rules, regulations, or ordinances which may be imposed by other government agencies (local, state,
and federal) which -have jurisdiction, including but not limited to applicable river buffer rules in 15A
NCAC 213.0200, erosion and sedimentation control requirements in 15A NCAC Chapter 4 and under
the Division's General Permit NCGO10000, and any requirements pertaining to wetlands under 15A
NCAC 2B .0200 and 2H .0500.20.
23. A set of approved plans and specifications for the subject project must be retained by the Permittee
for the life of this project.
24. Noncompliance Notification:
The Permittee shall report by telephone to the Asheville Regional Office, telephone number
[phone], 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 for any of the following:
a) Any occurrence at the wastewater treatment facility which results in the treatment of significant
amounts of wastes which are abnormal in quantity or characteristic, such as the dumping of the
contents of a basin or tank, the known passage of a slug of hazardous substance through the
facility, or any other unusual circumstances;
WQ0000331 Version 2.2 Shell Version MMDDYY Page 3 of 4

b) Any process unit fair. _ , due to known or unknown reasons, tha',_,iders the facility incapabl
adequate wastewater treatment, such as mechanical or electrical failures of pumps, aerat
compressors, etc;
c) Any failure of a pumping station, sewer line, or treatment facility resulting in a by-pass directly to
receiving waters without treatment of all or any portion of the influent to such station or facility;
or
d) Any time that self-monitoring information indicates that the facility is not in compliance with its
permit limitations.
Occurrences outside normal business hours may also be reported to the Division's Emergency
Management personnel at telephone number [phone], or [phone]. Persons reporting
such occurrences by telephone shall also file a written report in letter form within five (5) days
following first knowledge of the occurrence. This report must outline the actions taken or proposed
to be taken to ensure that the problem does not recur.
25. Upon classification of the wastewater treatment and spray irrigation facilities by the Water Pollution
-- - - - -Control System Operators Certification Commission (WPCSOCC), the Permittee shall designate and -
employ a certified operator to be in responsible charge (ORC) and one or more certified operator(s) to
be back-up ORC(s) of the facilities in accordance with 15A NCAC 8G .0201. The ORC shall visit
the facilities in accordance with 15A NCAC 8G .0204 or as specified in this permit and shall comply
with all other conditions specified in these rules.
26. The Permittee, at least six (6) months prior to the expiration of this permit, shall request its extension.
Upon receipt of the request, the Commission will review the adequacy of the facilities described
therein, and if warranted, will extend the permit for such period of time and under such conditions
and limitations as it may deem appropriate.
Permit issued this the 31St day of July, 2009
NORTH CAROLINA ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT COMMISSION
,4 41r
oleen . Sullins, Director
Divisi n of Water Quality
By Authority of the Environmental Management Commission
Permit Number WQ000033.1
WQ0000331 Version 2.2 Shell Version MMDDYY . Page 4 of 4

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Paroal I.D. No. 0777 -57 -SM
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for
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Deed Recorded in
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Richard A. Johnson, Owner
Blue Ridge Gem Mine
Post Office Box 327
Little Switzerland, NC 28749
Dear Mr. Johnson:
vrZ
OCT 13 2008
^, , • i= '': •; +1'21'1
Michael F. Easley, Governor
William G. Ross Jr., Secretary
North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources .
October 10, 2008
Coleen H. Sullins., Director
Division of Water Quality
Subject: Permit No. WQ0000331
Blue Ridge Gem Mine
Wastewater Recycle System
Mitchell County
In accordance with your permit application request for renewal received April 30, 2008, we are
forwarding herewith Permit No. WQ0000331, dated October 10, 2008, to the Blue Ridge Gem Mine for the
continued operation of the subject wastewater.recycle system.
This permit shall be effective from the date of issuance until September .30, 2013, shall void Permit No.
WQ0000331 issued September 16, 1997, and shall be subject to the conditions and limitations as specified
therein. Please pay particular attention to the monitoring requirements in this permit. Failure to establish an
adequate system for collecting and maintaining the required operational information will result in future
compliance problems.
If any parts, requirements, or limitations contained in this permit are unacceptable, you have the right to
request an adjudicatory hearing upon written request within thirty (30) days following receipt of this permit. This
request must be in the form of a written petition, conforming to Chapter 150B of North Carolina General Statutes,
and filed with the Office of Administrative Hearings, 6714 Mail Service Center, Raleigh,- NC 27699-6714.
Unless such demands are made this permit shall be final and binding.
Please note that on September 1, 2006 State Administrative Code 15A NCAC Subchapter 02T — Waste
not Discharged to Surface Water was adopted. This permit incorporates the requirement of these rules.
Remember to take. the time to review this permit thoroughly, as some of the conditions contained therein may
have been added, changed, or deleted from those in previously issued permits.
If you need additional information concerning this .matter, please contact David Goodrich at (919) 715-
6162 or at [e-mail].
Sincerely,
foleen H. Sullins
cc Mitchell County Health Department
A'shil+le eganal Office, AuiEfer Pro ecti�Sec'tion
Technical Assistance and Certification Unit
APS Central Files
LAU Files
None
rthCarolina
�atur�ll�
Aquifer Protection Section 1636 Mail Service Center Raleigh, NC 27699-1636 Telephone: [phone]
Internet: www.ncwaterqualitv.or¢ Location: 2728 Capital Boulevard Raleigh, NC 27604 Fax 1: [phone]
Fax 2: [phone]
An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer— 50% Recycled/10% Post Consumer Paper Customer Service: [phone]

NORTH CAROLINA
ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT COMMISSION
DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENT AND NATURAL RESOURCES
RALEIGH
RECYCLE SYSTEM PERMIT.
In accordance with the provisions of Article 21 of Chapter 143, General Statutes of North Carolina as amended,
and other applicable Laws, Rules, and Regulations
PERMISSION IS HEREBY GRANTED TO
Blue Ridge Gem Mine
Mitchell County
FOR THE
continued operation of a 50,000 GPD wastewater recycle system consisting of two solids settling basins in series
(40 ft. by 10 ft. by 6 ft. and 60 ft. by 20 ft. by 6 ft.), a 96 GPM and a 50 GPM recirculation pump, a 100 ft, flume
line, an 80 GPM pump which is used to pump make-up water from the abandoned mine, a 90 ft. by 105 ft. main
pond and all appurtenances to serve the Blue Ridge Gem Mine with no discharge of wastes to the surface waters,
pursuant to the application received April 30, 2008, and in conformity with the project plan, specifications, and
other supporting data subsequently filed and approved by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources
and considered a part of this permit.
This permit shall be effective from the date of issuance until September 30, 2013, shall void Permit No.
WQ0000331 issued September 16, 1997, and shall be subject to the following specified conditions and
limitations:
This permit shall become voidable unless the facilities are constructed in accordance with the conditions of
this permit, the approved plans and specifications, and other supporting data.
2. This permit is effective only with respect to the nature and volume of wastes described in the application
and other supporting data.
3. The facilities shall be properly maintained and operated at all times..
4. The following buffers shall be maintained:
a) 100 feet between treatment/storage units and any wells,
b) 50 feet between treatment/storage units and surface waters, and
c) 50 feet between treatment/storage units and property lines.

Some of the buffers specified above may not have been included in previous permits for t?
treatment and disposal system. These buffers are not intended to prohibit or prevent modif
which are required by the Division; to improve performance of the existing treatment facility. These
buffers do, however, apply to modifications of the treatment and disposal facilities that are for the
purpose of increasing the flow that is tributary to the facility. These buffers do apply to any
expansion or modification of the irrigation areas and apply in instances in which the sale of property
would cause any of the buffers now complied with, for the treatment and disposal facilities, to be
violated. The applicant is advised that'any modifications to the existing facilities will require a permit
modification.
5. There shall be no public access to the wastewater treatment equipment, wastewater storage structures or to
the wastewater within the closed-loop recycle facility.
6. An Operation and Maintenance Plan of the wastewater recycle system shall be maintained for the facility
and shall contain the following"
a) Description of the operation of the recycle system in sufficient detail to show what operations are
necessary for the facility to function and by whom the functions are to be conducted;
b) Description of anticipated maintenance of the system;
c) Provisions for r safety measures, including restriction of access to the site and equipment, as
appropriate;
d) Spill Control provisions including:
i. Response to upsets and bypasses including control, containment, and remediation;
ii. Contact information for.plant personnel, emergency responders, and regulatory agencies.
7. This permit is not transferable. In the event there is a desire for the facilities to change ownership, or there
is a name change of the Permittee, a formal permit request must be submitted to the Division of Water
Quality (Division) accompanied by an application fee, documentation from the parties involved, and other
supporting materials as may be appropriate. The approval of the request will be considered on its merits
and may or may not be approved.
In the event that the facilities fail to perform satisfactorily, including the creation of nuisance conditions, the
Permittee shall take immediate corrective action, including those actions that may be required by this
Division; such as the construction of additional or replacement treatment or disposal facilities.
9. The residuals generated from these treatment facilities must be disposed in accordance with General Statute
143-215.1 and in a manner approved by the Division.
10. The issuance of this permit shall not relieve the Permittee of the responsibility for damages to surface or
groundwaters resulting from the operation of this facility.
11. The facilities shall be effectively maintained and operated as a non -discharge system to prevent the
discharge of any wastewater resulting from the operation of this facility.
12. Diversion or bypassing of untreated wastewater from the treatment facilities is prohibited.
13. Freeboard in the settling ponds shall not be less than two feet at any time.
14. No wastewater from the mining operation shall be discharged into the abandoned mine shaft at any time.
15. A protective vegetative cover shall be established and maintained on all earthen basin embankments
(outside toe of embankment to maximum pumping elevation), berms, pipe runs, erosion control areas, and
surface water diversions. Trees, shrubs, and other woody vegetation shall not be allowed to grow on the
earthen basin dikes or embankments. Earthen basin embankment areas shall be kept mowed or otherwise
controlled and accessible.
2

my monitoring deemed necessary by the Division to insure surface and ground water protection will be
tablished and an acceptable sampling reporting schedule shall be followed.
17. Adequate inspection, maintenance, and cleaning shall be provided by the Permittee to insure proper
operation of the subject facilities.
18. The Permittee or his designee shall inspect the wastewater recycle facilities to prevent malfunctions and
deterioration, operator errors and discharges which may cause or lead to the release of wastes to the
environment, a threat to human health, or a nuisance.. The Permittee shall maintain an inspection log or
summary including at least the date and time of inspection, observations made, and any maintenance,
repairs, or corrective actions taken by the Permittee. This log of inspections shall be maintained by the
Permittee for a period of three years from the date of the inspection and shall be made available to the
Division or other permitting authority, upon request.
19. Any duly authorized officer, employee, or representative of the Division may, upon presentation of
credentials, enter and inspect any property, premises or place on or related to the recycle system at any
reasonable time for the purpose of determining compliance with this permit, may inspect or copy any
records that must be maintained under the terms and conditions of this permit, and may obtain samples of
groundwater, surface water, or leachate.
20. The annual administering and compliance fee must be paid by the Permittee within thirty (30) days after
being billed by the Division. Failure to pay the fee accordingly may cause the Division to initiate action to
revoke this permit as specified by 15A NCAC 2H.0205 (c)(4).
21. Failure to abide by the conditions and limitations contained in this permit may subject the Permittee to an
enforcement action by the Division in accordance with North Carolina General Statute 143-215.6A to 143-
215.6C.
22. The issuance of this permit does not exempt the Permittee from complying with any and all statutes, rules,
regulations, or ordinances which may be imposed by other government agencies (local, state, and federal)
which have jurisdiction, including but not limited to applicable river buffer rules in 15A NCAC 2B.0200,
erosion and sedimentation control requirements in 15A NCAC Chapter 4 and under the Division's General
Permit NCGO10000, and any requirements pertaining to wetlands under 15A NCAC 2B .0200 and 2H
.0500.20.
23. A set of approved plans and specifications for the subject project must be retained by the Permittee for the
life of this project.
24. Noncompliance Notification:
The Permittee shall report by telephone to the Raleigh Regional Office, telephone number [phone],
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 wastewater treatment facility which results in the treatment of significant
amounts of wastes which are abnormal in quantity or characteristic, such as the dumping of the contents
of a basin or tank, 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 renders the facility incapable of
adequate wastewater treatment, such as .mechanical or electrical failures of pumps, aerators,
compressors, etc.;
c. Any failure of a pumping station, sewer line, or treatment facility resulting in a by-pass directly to
receiving waters without treatment of all or any portion of the influent to such station or facility; or

d. Any time that self-monitoring information indicates that the facility is not in compliance with it
limitations.
Occurrences outside normal business hours may also be reported to the Division's Emergency Management
personnel at telephone number [phone], or [phone]. Persons reporting such occurrences by
telephone shall also file a written report in letter form within five (5) days following first knowledge of the
occurrence. This report must outline the actions taken or proposed to be taken to ensure that the problem
does not recur.
25. Upon classification of the wastewater treatment and spray irrigation facilities by the Water Pollution
Control System Operators .Certification Commission (WPCSOCC), the Permittee shall designate and
employ a certified operator to be in responsible charge (ORC) and one or more certified operator(s) to be
back-up ORC(s) of the facilities in accordance with 15A NCAC 8G .0201. The ORC shall visit the
facilities in accordance with 15A NCAC 8G .0204 or as specified in this permit and shall comply with all
other conditions specified in these rules.
26: The Permittee, at least six (6) months prior to the _expiration of this permit, shall request its extension.
Upon receipt of the request, the Commission will review the adequacy of the facilities described therein,
and if warranted, will extend the permit for such period of time and under such conditions and limitations as
it may deem appropriate.
Permit issued this the 10"' day of October, 2008
NORTH CAROLINA ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT COMMISSION
4olerollen H. Sullins, Director
Division of Water Quality
By Authority of the Environmental Management Commission
Permit .Number WQ0000331
4

a
State of North Carolina
Department of Environment,
Health and Natural Resources
Division of Water Quality
James B. Hunt, Jr., Governor
Wayne McDevitt, Secretary
A. Preston Howard, Jr., P.E., Director
Mr. Richard A. Johnson
Blue Ridge Gem Mine
Post Office Box 327
Little Switzerland, North Carolina 28749
Dear Mr. Johnson:
so
r
IT [WM
40A&4 •
soft
�EHN
September 16, 1997
SEP 18 19oj i
I
Subject: Permit No. WQ0000331
Blue Ridge Gem Mine
Wastewater Recycle System
Mitchell County
In accordance with your application received July 14, 1997, we are forwarding herewith Permit
No. WQ0000331, dated September 16, 1997, to you for the continued operation of the subject wastewater
recycle system.
This permit shall be effective from the date of issuance until August 31, 2002, shall void Permit
No. WQ0000331, issued March 31, 1993, and shall be subject to the conditions and limitations as
specified therein. Please pay particular attention to the monitoring requirements in this permit. Failure to
establish an adequate system for collecting and maintaining the required operational information will result
in future compliance problems.
If any parts, requirements, or limitations contained in this permit are unacceptable, you have the
right to request an adjudicatory hearing upon written request within thirty (30) days following receipt of
this permit. This request must be in the form of a written petition, conforming to Chapter 150B of North
Carolina General Statutes, and filed with the Office of Administrative Hearings, P.O. Drawer 27447,
Raleigh, NC 27611-7447. Unless such demands are made this permit shall be final and binding..
If you need additional information concerning this matter, please contact Rick Moore at (919) 733-
5083 extension 527.
Sincerel
Preston Howard, Jr., P.E.
cc: Mitchell County Health Department
-Ashi�,-villle=lZeg orrala0$ ce 5-WatmQ.uahtty- Section
Training and Certification Unit (no revised rating)
Facilities Assessment Unit
P.O. Box 29535, Raleigh, North Carolina 27626-0535 Telephone [phone] FAX [phone]
An Equal Opportunity Affirmative Action Employer 50% recycled/ 10% post -consumer paper

0
NORTH CAROLINA
40
ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT COMMISSION
DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENT, HEALTH AND NATURAL RESOURCES
RALEIGH
RECYCLE SYSTEM PERMIT
In accordance with the provisions of Article 21 of Chapter 143, General Statutes of North Carolina as
amended, and other applicable Laws, Rules, and Regulations
PERMISSION IS HEREBY GRANTED TO
Blue Ridge Gem Mine
Mitchell County
FOR THE
continued operation of a 50,000 GPD wastewater recycle system consisting of two solids settling basins in
series (40 ft. by 10 ft. by 6 ft. and 60 ft. by 20 ft. by 6 ft.), a 96 GPM and a 50 GPM recirculation pump,
a 100 ft. flume line, an 80 GPM pump which is used to pump make-up water from the abandoned mine, a
90 ft. by 105 ft. main pond and all appurtenances to serve the Blue Ridge Gem Mine with no discharge of
wastes to the surface waters, pursuant to the application received July 14, 1997, and in conformity with
the project plan, specifications, and other supporting data subsequently filed and approved by the
Department of Environment, Health and Natural Resources and considered a part of this permit.
This permit shall be effective from the date of issuance until August 31, 2002, shall void Permit
No. WQ0000331, issued March 31, 1993, and shall be subject to the following specified conditions and
limitations:
This permit shall become voidable unless the facilities are constructed in accordance with
the conditions of this permit, the approved plans and specifications, and other supporting
data.
2. This permit is effective only with respect to the nature and volume of wastes described in
the application and other supporting data.
3. The facilities shall be properly maintained and operated at all times.
4. This permit is not transferable. In the event there is a desire for the facilities to change
ownership, or there is a name change of the Permittee, a formal permit request must be
submitted to the Division of Water Quality accompanied by an application fee,
documentation from the. parties involved, and other supporting materials as may be
appropriate. The approval of the request will be considered on its merits and may or may
not be approved.
5. In the event that the facilities fail to perform satisfactorily, including the creation of
nuisance conditions, the Permittee shall take immediate corrective action, including those
actions that may be required by this Division, such as the construction of additional or
replacement treatment or disposal facilities.

M 0
The residuals generated from these treatment facilities must be disposed in accordance with
General Statute 143-215.1 and in a manner approved by the North Carolina Division of
Water Quality.
7. The issuance of this permit shall not relieve the Permittee of the responsibility for damages
to surface or groundwaters resulting from the operation of this facility.
8. The facilities shall be effectively maintained and operated as a non -discharge system to
prevent the discharge of any wastewater resulting from the operation of this facility.
9. Diversion or bypassing of untreated wastewater from the treatment facilities is prohibited.
10. Freeboard in the settling ponds shall not be less than two feet at any time.
11. No wastewater from the mining operation shall be discharged into the abandoned mine
shaft at any time.
12. Any monitoring deemed necessary by the Division of Water Quality to insure surface and
ground water protection will be established and an acceptable sampling reporting schedule
shall be followed.
13. Adequate inspection, maintenance, and cleaning shall be provided by the Permittee to
insure proper operation of the subject facilities.
14. The Permittee or his designee shall inspect the wastewater recycle facilities to prevent
malfunctions and deterioration, operator errors and discharges which may cause or lead to
the release of wastes to the environment, a threat to human health, or a nuisance. The
Permittee shall maintain an inspection log or summary including at least the date and time of
inspection, observations made, and any maintenance, repairs, or corrective actions taken by
the Permittee. This -log of inspections shall be maintained by the Permittee for a period of
three years from the date of the inspection and shall be made available to the Division of
Water Quality or other permitting authority, upon request.
15. Any duly authorized officer, employee, or representative of the Division of Water Quality
may, upon presentation of credentials, enter and inspect any property, premises or place on
or related to the recycle system at any reasonable time for the purpose of determining
compliance with this permit, may inspect or copy any records that must be maintained
under the terms and conditions of this permit, and may obtain samples of groundwater,
surface water, or leachate.
16. The annual administering and compliance fee must be paid by the Permittee within thirty
(30) days after being billed by the Division. Failure to pay the fee accordingly may cause
the Division to initiate action to revoke this permit as specified by 15A NCAC 2H .0205
(c)(4)•
17. Failure to abide by the conditions and limitations contained in this permit may subject the
Permittee to an enforcement action by the Division of Water Quality in accordance with
North Carolina General Statute 143-215.6(a) to 143-215.6(c).
18. The issuance of this permit does not preclude the Permittee from complying with any and
all statutes, rules, regulations, or ordinances which may be imposed by other government
agencies (local, state, and federal) which have jurisdiction.
19. A set of approved plans and specifications for the subject project must be retained by the
Permittee for the life of this project.
2

a a
20. Noncompliance Notification:
The Permittee shall report by telephone to the Asheville Regional Office, telephone number
[phone] 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 wastewater treatment facility which results in the treatment of
significant amounts of wastes which are abnormal in quantity or characteristic, such as
the dumping of the contents of a basin or tank, 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 renders the facility
incapable of adequate wastewater treatment, such as mechanical or electrical failures of
pumps, aerators, compressors, etc.;
c. Any failure of a pumping station, sewer line, or treatment facility resulting in a by-pass
.directly to receiving waters without treatment of all or any portion of the influent to
such station or facility; or
d. Any time that self-monitoring information indicates that the facility is not in compliance
with its permit limitations.
Persons reporting such occurrences by telephone shall also file a written report in letter
form within five (5) days following first knowledge of .the occurrence. This report must
outline the actions taken or proposed to be taken to ensure that the problem does not recur.
21. Upon classification of the facility by. the Certification Commission, the Permittee shall
employ a certified wastewater treatment plant operator to be in responsible charge (ORC) of
the wastewater treatment facilities. The operator must hold a certificate of the type and
grade at least equivalent to or greater than the classification assigned to the wastewater
treatment facilities by the Certification Commission. The Permittee must also employ a
certified back-up operator of the appropriate type and grade to comply with the conditions
of Title 15A, Chapter 8A, .0202. The ORC of the facilitymust visit each Class I facility at
least weekly and each Class II, III, and IV facility at least daily, excluding weekends and
holidays, and must properly manage and document daily operation and maintenance of the
facility and must comply with all other conditions of Title 15A, Chapter 8A, .0202.
22. The Permittee, at least six (6) months prior to the expiration of this permit, shall request its
extension. Upon receipt of the request, the Commission will review the adequacy of the
facilities described therein, and if warranted, will extend the permit for such period of time
and under such conditions and limitations as it may deem appropriate.
Permit issued this the sixteenth day of September, 1997.
NORTHC INA EN NN7E AL MANAGEMENT COMMISSION
f1. Preston Howard, Jr., P.E., Director
Division of Water Quality
By Authority of the Environmental Management Commission
Permit Number WQ0000331

I
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SOC PRIORITY PROJECT: YES NO X
IF YES, SOC NUMBER
TO: PERMITS AND ENGINEERING UNIT
WATER QUALITY SECTION
ATTENTION: Rick -Moore
DATE: September 4, 1997
NON -DISCHARGE STAFF REPORT AND RECOMb1ENDATION
COUNTY Mitchell
PERMIT.NUMBER WQ0000331
PART I - GENERAL INFORMATION
1. Facility and Address: Blue Ridge Gemstone Mine
c/o Richard A. Johnson
Post Office Box 202
Little Switzerland, N. C..28749
2.
3.
4.
Date of Investigation: August 27, 1997
Report Prepared By: Michael R. Parker
Persons Contacted and Telephone Number: Mr. Richard Johnson
704/765-5264
5. Directions to Site: From the intersection of N. C. Secondary
Roads 1100 and 1104, travel west on NCSR 1100 approximately 2.0
miles. The gem mine is located on the left side of NCSR 1100.
6. Size (land -available for expansion and upgrading): 1/2 acre.
7. Topography (relationship to 100 year flood plain included): NA
Attach a U.S.G.S. map extract and indicate facility site.
U.S.G.S. Quad No..D10SE
Latitude: 350 50', 47"
U.S.G.S. Quad Name Little Switzerland
Page 1
Longitude: 820 07' 27"

EM
•
M
Any buffer conflicts with location of nearest dwelling and
supply well? Yes No X If Yes, explain:
9. Watershed Stream Basin Information:
a. Watershed Classification: C -trout
b. River Basin and Subbasin No.: FBR 05
C. Distance.to surface water from disposal system:
approximately -50 feet.
PART II - DESCRIPTION OF WASTES AND TREATMENT'WORKS
1. a. Volume: 0.050 MGD (Design Capacity)
Residuals: tons per year
b. Types and quantities of industrial wastewater:
washing dirt and soil from rocks and gem stones.
C. Pretreatment Program (POTWs only):
in development
should be required
approved
not needed
2. Treatment Facilities: The existing wastewater treatment
facilities consist of two settling basins in series, three recycle
pumps, 96 gpm, 80 gpm and 50 gpm, with plastic piping and two
flume lines.
a. What is the current permitted capacity of the facility?
NA
b. What is the actual treatment capacity of the current facility
Actual pumping capacity of all three pumps operating 24
hrs./day is 325,400 gpd.
C. Please provide a description of existing or substantially
constructed wastewater treatment facilities: See above.
d. Please provide a description of proposed wastewater treatment
facilities: NA
3. Residuals handling and utilization/disposal scheme: Solids removed
from the ponds are used to fill in low depressions and used again
in the mining of gem stones.
a.
b.
C.
d.
If Residuals are being land applied,
Permit Number
Residual Contractor
Telephone Number
Residuals stabilization: PSRP
Landfill:
please specify DWQ
PFRP OTHER
Other disposal/utilization scheme (Specify):
Page, 2

f
Treatment plant classification (attach completed rating sheet):
No rating.
5. SIC Code(s) : 1499
Wastewater Code(s) of actual wastewater, not particular facilities
i.e., non -contact cooling water discharge from a metal plating
company would be 14, not 56.
Primary: 44 Secondary:
Main Treatment Unit• Code : 50000
PART III OTHER PERTINENT INFORMATION
1. Is this facility being constructed with Construction Grant funds
(municipals only)? NA
2. Special monitoring requests: NA
3. Important SOC, JOC or.Compliance Schedule dates: (Please
indicate)NA
Submission of Plans and Specifications
Begin Construction
Complete Construction
4. Other Special Items: NA
Page 3-
Date

PART IV - EVALUATION AND RECOPMRENDATIONS
It -is recommended that the permit be, issued essentially with the same
stipulations and clauses as in the existing permit.
If you have questions, please call me at 704/251-6208.
'---�/ -/"/
Signature of Rep rt Prelparer
Wal(er Qualit Regional Supervisor
12
Date
Page 4

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of North Carolina`
.rtment of Environment,
I%i GlILh and Natural Resources
Division of Water Quality
James B. Hunt, Jr., Governor
Jonathan B. Howes, Secretary
A. Preston Howard, Jr., P.E., Director
July 17, i997
MR. RICHARD A. JOHNSON
BLUE RIDGE GEMSTONE MINE
PO BOX 327
LI'T'TLE SWITZERLAND, NORTH CAROL• INA 28749
Dear MR. JOHNSON:
09WA
C)EHNR
Subject: Application
Gem Mine
Recycle Facility
Mitchell County
No. WQ0000331
The Division's Permits and Engineering Unit acknowledges receipt of your permit application and
supporting materials on July 14, 1997. This application has been assigned the number listed above.
Your project has been assigned to Rick Moore for a detailed engineering review. Should there be any
questions concerning your project, the reviewer will contact you with a request for additional
information.'
Be aware that the Division's regional office, copied below, must provide recommendations from the
Regional Supervisor or a Procedure Four,Evaluation for this project, prior to final action by the
Division.
If you have any questions, please contact Rick, -Moore at [phone] extension 527. If the engineer
is, unavailable, you may leave a message on their voice mail and they will respond promptly.
PLEASE REFER TO THE ABOVE APPLICATION NUMBER WHEN MAKING
INQUIRIES ON THIS PROJECT.
Sincerely,
Kim H. Cols n, P.E.
Supervisor, State Engineering Review Group
cc: Asheville Regional Office
- - r
Pollution Prevention Pays
P.O. Box 29535, Raleigh, North Carolina 27626-0535 Telephone [phone] .
An Equal Opportunity Affirmative Action Employer

Jute OI iNorED t arejxna
Department of Environment, Health and Natural Resources
Division. of Environmental Management
Non -Discharge Perni.it Application Form
(THIS FORM MAY BE PHOTOCOPIED FOR USE AS AN ORIGINAL)
RECYCLE FACILITIES
I. GENERAL INFORMATION: `l
r-
1. Applicants narrie (please specify the name of the municipality, corporation, individual, etc.):
Ogg 114 e A04.01 -0,t
• J
2. Print Ownars or Signing Official's name and title (the person wbo is legally responsible for the facility and its compliance u1 1-:4
,X& 61 Wj .& ',0A—&r&!e
3. Mal ling address: ,0_0 X -0-A
Cite: 1 w.f' '�r��Jtw/4!...._._. State: _A
.. _ . _........_........... zip:. .- ! Q...._ . __...... _._..
Tetephone Number: ( �� J ���" ' 7 iZve,*
4. Project N[a e (please specify the name of the facility or establishment - should be consistent on all documents included:
5 :.ccatiun of Rct:ycke �Hcility (Stret:t Address}: b � es � ��i �iw++� �f /�Iilr� �d � .
City:I TTI _ir _.!rw1`flC 0'/ _A6W . Sate: *,e 7,11y
6. Contact person who can answer questions about application:
tante: /�',l A,rcJ ,I. ralrr&.✓ Telephone number: ( _ } , -zG 44
7. Latitude: _.. �____ ; Longitude: _ of recycle facility 1wadon
R. Application Date: _ 47
4 Fac Submitted: 5-400-1 �' [The p=it processing fee should be as specified in ISA NCAC 214,0205(e)(5).j
10 County where pmiect is located: A; tC A E
I1. PERMIT INFOR.MAT1ON:
1. �pPii�•ation Kc+. (++•ill Uc completeo 1?y DE�41: �,_--�� ti/VUV J��
?. Specify whether project is: new; _y_ rencw:d'; modification
For renes+els, compiCtr only sections i• ll, and applicant signature (on page 6). Submit only pages 1 and 5 (original 01
three copies of each) rngineeei signature not requred for renewal without other modifications.
3. if this application is being submitted as a result of a renewal or modification to art existing permit, list the existing perm
rtumber 6�f_.�_o p a a �'3/ a s its' issue date. _44
4. Spertfy whether thle. applicant is public or _..... _... priVate.
FOR1.1. RF 06/94
Page 1 of 6

,�
fi

111JJ11WC AUU1 N Ut Z11&111GG41112 J7UWI.
State: Zip;
Telephone Number: f )
Professional Engineer's Certification;
I, . _ _ _._.___ , attest that this application for
has been reviewed b}, me and is accurate and cmiplete to tli4 b45t of my knowledgts. I further arrest that to the best of my knowledge
the proposed dmirn has been prepared in accordance with the applicable reguladuns. Although certain portions of this submittal
package may hay c been dexeioped by other proi,ssionals, inclusion of these materials under my signature and sent signiiics that I hv
reviewed this =tetial and have judged it to be t,Nnsistent wide the proposed design.
North Carolina Professinnal Engineer's Seal, Simature, acid Date:
Applicant's Certification_
I. aimt that this apptication`fo &(—,fe 101�r
has been reviewed by me and is accurate and complete to the best of my knowledge. 1 understand that if all required parts of this
application are n(q corrtpieted and that if all required supporting information and attachments are not included, this application packagi
will be tetui ited to nre as incomplete. A.,
Signature Date" 97
nice CO'If1't.Iil l;1,) APPLICATION 1'ACKAG)', INCLUDING ALL SUPPORTING INFORMATION AND
;MATERIALS, SHOU1,J) 131; SE'N'T TO THE FOLLOWITNG ADDRESS:
NORTIi CAROLINA DIVISION OF ENVIRON -MENTAL MANAGEMENT
MATER QUALITY SECTIO
PERINUTS AND ENGINEERING UNIT
POST OFFICE BOX 29535
RALEIGH, NORTH CAROLINA 27626-0535
TELEPHONE NUINSER: [phone]
FORM: R1. 116194 Page 5 of 6

/•,
State of North Carolina
Department of Environment, Health and Natural Resources
Division of Environmental Management
512 North Salisbury Street ! Raleigh, North Carolina 27604
James B. Hunt, Jr., Governor
Richard Johnson, President
Blue Ridge Gemstone Mine
Post Office Box 202
Little Switzerland, North Carolina 28749
Dear Mr. Johnson:
Jonathan B. Howes, Secretary
March 31, 1993
Subject: Permit No. WQ0000331
Blue Ridge Gemstone Mine
Wastewater Recycle System
Mitchell County
In accordance with your application received March 2, 1993, we are forwarding herewith Permit
No. WQ0000331, dated March 31, 1993, to Blue Ridge Gemstone Mine for the continued operation of the
subject wastewater -recycle system.
This permit shall be effective from the date of issuance until February 28, 1998, shall void.Permit
No. WQ0000331 issued September 14, 1988 and shall be subject to the conditions. and limitations as
specified therein. Please pay particular attention to the monitoring requirements in this permit. Failure to
establish an adequate system for collecting and maintaining the required operational information will result
in future compliance problems.
If any parts, requirements, or limitations contained in this permit are unacceptable to you, you have
the right to request an adjudicatory hearing upon written request within 30 days following -receipt of this
permit. This request must be in the form of a written petition, conforming to Chapter 150B of North
Carolina General Statutes, and filed with the Office of Administrative Hearings, P.O. Drawer 27447, -
Raleigh, NC 27611-7447. Unless such demands are made this permit shall be final and binding.
Regional Offices
Asheville Fayetteville Mooresville Raleigh Washington Wilmington Winston-Salem
704/251-6208 919/486-1541 704/663-1699 919/571-4700 919/946-6481 919/395-3900 919/896-7007
Pollution Prevention Pays
P.O. Box 29535, Raleigh, North Carolina 27626-0535 Telephone [phone]
An Equal Opportunity Affirmative Action Employer

t
rif you need additional information concerning this matter, please contact Mr. Michael D. Allen at
[phone].
Sincerely,
A. Prest4 Howard, 7r.; P.E:
Director
cc: Mitchell County Health Department
Asheville Regional Office
Training and Certification Unit
Facilities Assessment Unit

NORTH CAROLINA
ENVIRONMENTAL . MANAGEMENT COMMISSION
DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENT, HEALTH AND NATURAL RESOURCES
RALEIGH
RECYCLE SYSTEM PERMIT
In accordance with the provisions of Article 21 of Chapter 143, General Statutes of North Carolina as
amended, and other applicable Laws, Rules, and Regulations
PERMISSION IS HEREBY GRANTED TO
Blue Ridge Gemstone Mine
,Mitchell County.
FOR THE
continued operation of a 50,000 GPD wastewater recycle system consisting of two (2) solids settling
basins in series (40 ft. by 10 ft. by 6 ft: and 60 ft. by 20 ft. by 6 ft.), a 96 GPM and a 50 GPM
recirculation pump, a 100 ft. flume line, an 80' GPM' pumps which is used to pump make-up water from
the abandoned mine, a 90 ft. by 105 ft. .main pond and all appurtenances to serve Blue Ridge Gemstone
Mine with no discharge of wastes to the surface waters, pursuant to the application received March 2,
1993, and in conformity with the project plan, specifications, and other supporting data subsequently filed
and approved by the Department of Environment, Health and Natural .Resources and considered a part of.
this permit.
This permit shall be effective from the date of issuance until February 28, 1998, shall void Permit
No. WQ0000331 issued September 14, 1988 and' shall be subject to the following specified conditions
and limitations:
1. This permit shall become voidable unless the facilities are constructed in accordance with
the conditions of this permit, the approved plans, specifications, and other supporting data. _
2. This permit is effective only with respect to the nature and volume of wastes described in
the application and other supporting data.
3. The facilities shall be properly maintained and operated at all times.
4. This permit is not transferable. In the event there is a desire for the facilities to change
- ownership, or there is a name change of the Permittee, a formal permit request must be
submitted to the Division of Environmental Management accompanied by an application
fee, documentation from the parties involved, and other supporting materials as may be
appropriate: The approval of the request will be considered on its merits and may or may
not be approved.

In the event that the facilities fail to perform satisfactorily, including the creation of
nuisance conditions, the Permittee shall take immediate corrective action, including those as
may be required by this Division, such as the construction of additional or replacement
wastewater treatment or disposal facilities.
6. The sludge generated from these treatment facilities must be disposed of in accordance with
General Statute 143-215.1 and in a manner approved by the North Carolina Division of
Environmental Management.
7. The issuance of this permit shall not relieve the Permittee of the responsibility for damages
to surface or groundwaters resulting from the operation of this facility.
8. The facilities shall be effectively maintained and operated as a non -discharge system to
prevent the discharge of any wastewater resulting from the operation of this facility.
9. Diversion or bypassing of untreated wastewater from the treatment facilities is prohibited.
10. Freeboard in the settling ponds shall not be, less than two feet at any time.
11. No wastewater from the mining operation. shall be discharged into the abandoned mine
shaft.
12. Any monitoring deemed necessary by the Division of Environmental Management to insure
surface and ground water protection will -be established and an acceptable sampling
reporting schedule shall be followed.
13. Adequate inspection, maintenance, and cleaning shall be provided by the Permittee to
insure proper operation of the subject facilities.
14. The Permittee or his designee shall .inspect the. wastewater recycle facilities to prevent
malfunctions and deterioration., operator, errors. and discharges which may cause or lead to
the release of wastes to the environment, :a :threat. to. human health, or a nuisance. The
Permittee shall keep an inspection log or. summary including at least the date and time of
inspection, observations made, and any maintenance, repairs, or corrective actions taken
by the Permittee. This log of inspections shall be maintained by the Permittee for a period
of three years from the date of the inspection and shall be made available upon request to
the Division of Environmental Management or other permitting authority.
15. Any duly authorized officer, employee, or representative of the Division of Environmental
Management may, upon presentation of credentials, enter and inspect any property,
premises or place on or related to the recycle system at any reasonable time for the purpose
of determining compliance with this permit; may inspect or copy any records that must be
kept under the terms and conditions of this permit; or may obtain samples of groundwater,
surface water, or leachate.
16. The annual administering and compliance fee must be paid by the Permittee within thirty
(30) days after being billed by the Division. Failure to pay the fee accordingly may cause
the Division to initiate action to revoke this permit as specified by 15 NCAC 2H .0205
(c)(4)•
17. Failure to abide by the conditions and limitations contained in this permit may subject the
Permittee to an enforcement action by the Division of Environmental Management in
accordance with North Carolina General Statute 143-215.6A to 143-215.6C.
18. The issuance of this permit does not preclude the Permittee from complying with any. and
all statutes, rules, regulations, or ordinances which may be imposed by other government
agencies (local, state, and federal) which have jurisdiction.
2

.9. A set of approved plans and specifications for the subject project must be retained by the
Permittee for the life of this project.
!0. Noncompliance Notification:
The Permittee shall report by telephone to the Raleigh. Regional Office, telephone number
[phone] as soon as possible, but in no case more than 24 hours of on the next
working day following the occurrence or first knowledge of the occurrence -of any of the
following:
a. Any occurrence at the wastewater treatment facility which results in the treatment of
significant amounts of wastes which are abnormal in quantity or characteristic, such
as the dumping of the contents of a basin or tank; 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 o_r electrical failures
of pumps, aerators, compressors, etc.
c. Any failure of a pumping station, sewer line, or treatment facility resulting in a by-
pass directly to receiving waters without treatment of all or any portion of the
influent to such station or facility.
d. Any time that self-monitoring information indicates that the facility is not in
compliance with its permit limitations.
Persons reporting such occurrences by telephone shall also file a written report in letter
form within 15 days following first knowledge of the. occurrence:. This report must outline
the actions taken or proposed to be taken to ensure that the problem does not recur.
21. Upon classification of the facility by the Certification Commission, the Permittee shall
employ a. certified wastewater treatment plant operator.to be. in responsible charge (ORC) of
the wastewater treatment facilities. The operator.must hold a certificate of the type and
grade at least equivalent to or greater than the classification assigned to the wastewater
treatment facilities by the Certification Commission: The Permittee must also employ a
certified back-up. operator of the appropriate type and grade to comply with the conditions
of Title 15A, Chapter 8A, .0202. The ORC of the facility must visit each Class I facility at
least weekly and each Class II, III, and IV facility at least daily, excluding weekends and
holidays, and must properly manage and document daily operation and maintenance of the
facility and must comply with all other conditions of Title 15A, Chapter 8A, .0202.
22. The Permittee, at least six (6) months prior to the expiration of this permit, shall request its
extension. Upon receipt of the request, the Commission will review the adequacy of the
facilities described therein, and if warranted, will extend the permit for such period of time
and under such conditions and limitations as it may deem appropriate.
Permit issued this the 31 st day of March, 1993
NORTH CAROLINA ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT COMMISSION
, " l . rnl] � rJ ".
A. Preston Howard, Jr, P.E., Director
Division Environmental Manageme t
By Authority of the Environmental Management Commission
Permit No. WQ0000331
3

I
399ow- E. 401
,
'oxi III I
X69 \ � • � ;;,
' 3600
`-
r 600• // • :011 '(•
\
3000

4
IVH 01 I A(JI 1111-;i
Name of Plant:
Owner or Contact Person: ZC_4, .,: j ---------------
�"s-6,,,
Mailing Address:_ %�. U- max Q2D a 1
----------_�%z4 fz-411 NT�v c,��
County: �i+GL. j) Telephone:
NPDES Permit No. NC00 Nondisc. Per. No j,UaM 33 %
IssueDate: Expiration Date:
Existing Facility New Facility
Rated By: �.-� Date:.3 s >3
Reviewed '(Train. & Cert. Reg. Office
Reviewed (Train. & Cert.): Central Office
ORC
Plant Class: (circle one) I
REM.
POINTS
(1) Industrial Pretreatment Units .and/or
Industrial Pretreatment Program
(see definition No. 33) 4
(2) DEU FLOW OF PLANT W GPD
(not applicable to non -contaminated cooling waters, sludge
handling facilities for water purification plants, totally
dosed cycle systems (del. -No. 11), and facilities
consisting only of Item (4) (d) or Items (4) (d) and •(11) (d))
0 -• 20,000....... 1
20,001 •- 50,000.. .................
50,001 - 100 000 .. .................... 2
100,001 - 250,000 •'•............i........ 3
250,001 - 500,000 .......................... 4
,500,001 -1,000,000.. 5
1,000,001 -- 2,000,000 . 8
2,000,001 (and up) - rale• 1 • • oin• ' • • i • • • • •- 10
-Point additional for each
200,000 gpd capacity up to a
maximum of, 30
Design Flow (gpd)
(3) PRELIMINARY UNITS (see definition no. 32)
(a) Bar Screens ..... .
or 1
(b) Mechanical Screens, Static Screens or
Comminuting Devices .(c) Grit Removal... ...... ... .. 2
or 1
(d) Mechanical or Aerated Grit Removal . • . • • • • • -
(e) Flow Measuring Device 2
. ......
or 1
(f) Instrumented Flow Measurement .............. 2
(9)Preaeration................................ 2
(h) Influent Flow -Equalization
-
...................
(i) Grease or oil Separators - Gravity
2
...... -
Mechanical . , , • •
3
,
Dissolved Air Flotation.
0) Preehtorinalion
8
. ....... a................
Diffused Air System ... -.'::.
4) PRIMARY TREATMENT UNITS
(a) Septic Tank (see definition no. 43)
= -
...............
(b) Imhoff Tank
2
.
(c) Primary Clarifiers " "
5
- - • • • - • •
(d) Sellling Ponds or Settling Tanks for Inorganic
5
Non-toxic Ma(erials (sludge handling facilities
:,-.
for water purification plants, sand, gravel,
stone, and other mining operations except
7—
;
recrealional activilies such as gem or gold
ruining) • • , ..
Grade
II III IV Total.Points
�7 ON
(5) SECONDARY TREATMENT UNITS
-
(a) Carbonaceous Stage
_
(i)Aeration - High Purity Oxygen Systerim
Diffused Air System ... -.'::.
Mechanical Air System '•.(ftxid..,;�`:_
= -
- floating or rotor)
Separate ..•..,
Sludge Reaeration
Trickling• Filter
:,-.
High Rate . r.........-... ......
Standard Rate -
7—
;
.
Packed Tower .:...
(iii) Biological -.Aerated
S
:Filler or Aerated.,--.!-..-,--
Biological Filter
...
(iv) Aerated Lagoons .......... �.. • • :
=1_-0=_
10--
(v) Rotating Biological Contactors .......
(vi) Sand Filters•
I.
- I
inle'rmittenl biological . '
2.
recirculating'biological
g
(vu Stabir ation Lagoons . -
r -
(vii)Clarifier .
Sin I --
(ix) Single stage system •for •combined•
-5 _
-
carbonaceous removal of BOD and -
nitrogenous `removal by nitrification
(see def::'No.'12)•.(Points' for this Item-
_
have to be, in' addition td' items (5) (a)
n through -(5) (a) (V17.: .
(x) Nutrient additions to enhance BOD
8 .
removal..
(xi) Biological Culture •Bugs')
5
('Super addition
to enhance organic compo iid`removal .....
(b) Nitrogenous Stage
5
(i) Aeration - High Purity Oxygen System ......
20
Diffused Air System ...........
10
McC114nieal Air System (fixed, r
floating;•or rotor) .:.... .....
8
Separate Sludge Reaeration .....
(ii) Trickling Filler -
3
High Rale ...............
7
Standard Rate .............
5
Packed Tower.........
5
(iii) Biological Aerated Filler or Ae'raled
Biological Filler
....:...............
(iv) Rotating Biological Conlaclors
10
'
.... - • , • , • . •
'(v) Sand Filler -
10
intermittent biological ... .....
2
recirculating biological : . . . . . . .
(VI) Cl2riliCr
3
.. .... ...... .... .....
5

orthout
OVANCED TrZEATMENT UNl1 Carbons Beds !p CHEMICAL AODITI( YSTEM S See definition No. 9) `
arbon regeneration .-..........•,,(not anlrlicahle ro chemical additions rated as ilemon regeneration .................... 1 5 (3) (1). (5) (a) (xi). (6) (a)• (6) (b). (7) (b). (�) (e).
or Granular Activated Carbon Feed - (9) (a). (9) (b), or (9) (c) 5 points each: Lis1:..... 5
arbon regeneration ................. 5 5
on regeneration ................... 15
5
;) Air Stripping ............................. 5 5
(d) Denitrification' Process (separate process) .: _ , _ 10
(e) Elec;rodiatysis ........................':.. , , , 5 (11) MISCELLANEOUS UNITS
(r) Foam Separation .............................. 5
(g) ton Exchange.... .............11 ............... 5 (a) Holding Ponds, Holding Tanks or Settling Ponds
for Organic or Toxic Materials including wastes
(h) Land Application of Treated Elkin from mining operations containing nitrogen and/or
(see definition no. 22n) (not applicable for phosphorous compounds in amounts significantly
sand, gravel, clone and other similar mining
operations) greater than is common for domestic wastewater ........... 4
(i) on agriculturally managed sites (See del. (b) Effluent Flow Equalization (not applicable to storage
basins which are inherent in land application systems). 2
No. 4)................................... 10 (c) Stage Discharge (not applicable to storage basins " .
(ii) by high rate infiltration on non-agriculturally inherent in land application systems .................................: 5
managed sites (includes rotary distributors "' '
(d) Pumps._....__...__... _ ...�._ �_ 3
and similar fixed nozzle systems) .......... , 4 (e) Stand-By Power Supply 3=
(iri) y subsurface disposal (includes lowressure
P (f) Thermal Pollution Control Device........._.............................._.. 3
pipe systems and gravity systems except at ,.
plants consisting of septic lank and nitrifica-
tion lines only) .................. _ .... ... 4
(� Microscreens .................................... 5 TOTAL POINTS
(j) Phosphorus Rero,ral by Biological Processes CLASSIFICATION
(See de(. No. 26) ............................ 20 -
(k) Polishing Ponds - without aeration ....... 2 Class 5-- 25 Points
with aeration .......... 5 Class II..... ___ __......... 26- 50 Points _
(1) Post Aeration - cascade ... 0 Class III... _ _.:/ 51- 65 Points
diffused or mechanical ... 5 Class IV...--................... . 66- Up Points -
(m) Reverse Osmosis 5 —
(n) Sand or Mixed-Media Filters - low rate ........... 2 FacTwlies having a rating of one through lout points. Indusive,
high rale .......... 5 do not require a certified operator. Classification-of 'all- other
(o) Treatment processes for removal of metal or facilities requires a comparable grade operator in 'iesporisWi e
cyanide.................................... 15 charge.
'n) Treatment processes for removal of toxic
materials other than metal or cyanide ......... 15 Facilities having an cthialed sludge process will be assigned
a minimum classification of Class 11.
LODGE TREATMENT Facilities having treatment processes for the removal of metal .
(a) Sludge Digestion Tank - Heated............... 10 or cyanide will be assigned a minimum classification of Class Il.
Aerobic ............... 5
Unheated............. 3 Facilities having treatment processes for the biological removal
(b) Sludge Stabilization (chemical or thermal) ....... 5 of phosphorus will be assigned a minimum classification of Class
(c) Sludge Drying Beds - Gravity......... . _ ..... 2
Vacuum Assisted ....... 5
(d) Sludge Elutriation ............................. 5 In-plant processes and related control equipment which are an
(e) Sludge Conditioner (chemical or thermal) ........ 5 integral part of industrial production shall not be considered waste--.
(f) Sludge Thickener (gravity) ...................... 5 treatment. Likewise, discharges of wastewater from residences
(g) Dissolved Air Flotation Unit having a design flow of 1 1,000 gpd or less, shall not be subject to
(not applicable to a unit rales as (3) n ......... 8 rating.
(h) Sludge Gas Utifizalion (including gas storage) ... '. 2 —
(i) Sludge Holding Tank - , Aerated................ 5 ADDITIONAL COMMENTS:
Non-aeraled ............ 2
(j) Sludge Incinerator - (not including activated ,
carbon regeneration) ..... 10
(k) Vacuum Filter, Centrifuge or .FUler Press or other
similar dewalering devices .................... 10
1) SLUDGE DISPOSAL (including incinerated ash)
(a) Lagoons........................................ 2
(b) land Application (surface and subsurface)
(see definition 22a)
-where the facility holds the land app. permit ... 10
-by contracting to a land application operator who
holds the land application permit ................ 2
-land application of sludge by a contractor who does
not hold the permit for the wastewater treatment
facility where the sludge is generated ......... 10
(c) Landlilled (burial) ............................. 5
1) uISINFECTION
(a) Chlorination ............................. 5
(b) Dechlorination ........................ 5
W. Ozonc .................. 5
(r1) Radiation ..... S .

U.LULUUIUAL ��I I N V L Y
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Water Resources
ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY
RECEIVED
Division of Water Resources
DEC 3 0 2015
Water Ouality Regional Operations
Asheville Regional Office
PAT MCCRORY
Governor
DONALD R. VAN DER VAART
Secretoty
S. JAY ZIMMERMAN
Director
Alan R. Schabilion
Blue Ridge Gemstone Mine
Post Office Box 98
Little Switzerland, NC 28749
Dear.Mr. Schabilion:
December 29, 2015
Qnhinr•t• Aa,•.,,it T�Tn �a>•nnnnn�� i
wvtvv�. a. va aaaaa i�v. •��VVV VJJI
Permit Rescission
Blue Ridge Gemstone Mine
Closed -Loop Recycle Permit
Mitchell County
Reference is made to your written rescission request received August 24, 20.15 for the subject
Closed -Loop Recycle permit. Staff from the Asheville Regional Office has confirmed that the subject
permit is no longer required. Therefore, in accordance with your request, Permit No. WQ0000331 is
rescinded, effective immediately.
If in the future you wish again to operate the subject non -discharge system, you must first apply
for and receive a new Closed -Loop Recycle permit. Please be advised that construction and/or operation
of the subject facilities without a valid permit is a violation of North Carolina General Statute § 143-215.1
and may subject the owner/operator to appropriate enforcement actions in accordance with North Carolina
General Statute § 143 -215.6A -6C. Civil penalties of up to $25,000 per day per violation may be assessed
for failure to secure a permit required by North Carolina General Statute. § 143-215.1.
If you need additional information concerning this letter, please contact David.Schlobohm (919)
807-6384 or [e-mail].
Sincerely,
Jay Zimmerman, P.G., Direct
Division of Water Resources
cc: Mitchell County Health Department _
Asheville -Regional -Off ce.-W—ate r Quality Regional.:Opefations-Section��
Beth Buffington, Public Water Supply Section – Protection and Enforcement Branch
Division of Water Resources Budget Office
Permit File WQ0000331
State ofNorth Carolina i Environmental Quality I Water Resources I Water Quality Permitting i Non -Discharge Permitting
1617 Mail Service Center I Raleigh, North Carolina 27699-1617
919 807 6464

,August:=�0, 2015
BeYeriy rPr�ce: _ :��� (j°� 2415:
-
swarpppaa, lVC $?78
l
Ni_s Pri�e� '
!n rQfQ ence toriA(astewat Recycle,.ysterr Permrf Q 0.003 1 ssued;:irr the name offlue=
Rrdgc Gemstan'e Miry"e, #his :i to notify you that;=ince haue not operated th4s system m seers
and harts' rt o the i terrmrrat�i�r ;that'we wish ;tavdontarily rehnquisf tf� s permit. W .;have o
p:tans io use this systim anci;°under5tand that if we evera,1llf wilt startt�rr from: scath_, F
We dorwisf. to con flnue operating the lEmnera;Re -ycie
5ysterrierrnrt#WE�t106tlG acYd remain rf o'? on. nflf riales,anc� regttat�Qis; and �iuil[ ren°ew
tFat permit: .
-Please qt -"em, 1knau �# yt�u :Etave;any gtaestiorts`concerris= 'Tharrk'yQcrr
Sm�ceCey,• _
3-
i
-11",stho-O ton
{
- - aAh
00
�� ���lih+ i3Pttion�. atSP,L �
l

Permit: W00000331
SOC:
County: Mitchell
Region: Asheville
Compliance Inspection Report
Effective: 07/31/09 Expiration: 09/30/17 owner: Blue Ridge Gemstone Mine
Effective: Expiration: Facility: Blue Ridge Gemstone Mine
PO Box 98
Little Switzerland NC 28749
Contact Person: Alan R Schabilion Title: Owner Phone: [phone]
Directions to Facility:
Hwy 226-A to Little Switzerland. Take Crabtree Creek Road to McKinney Mine Road (left). Facility is located approximately 2.0 miles
on the left.
System Classifications:
Primary ORC: Certification: Phone:
Secondary ORC(s):
On -Site Representative(s):
Related Permits:
©h
Inspection Date:—9&7/04/-1,976 • Entry Time:
Primary Inspector: Beverly Price
Secondary Inspector(s):
Reason for Inspection: Other
Permit Inspection Type: Closed -Loop Recycle
Facility Status: ❑ Compliant ❑ Not Compliant
Question Areas:
Miscellaneous Questions
Exit Time:
Phone: [phone]
Inspection Type: Reconnaissance
(See attachment summary)
jS
AD CSS oep—s
j
(3-AJi fSS.
Page: 1

Permit: WQ0000331 Owner - Facility: Blue Ridge Gemstone Mine
Inspection Date: 07/04/1976 Inspection Type : Reconnaissance Reason for Visit: Other
Inspection Summary:
Page: 2

Permit: WO0000331 Owner - Facility: Blue Ridge Gemstone Mine
:tion Date: 07/04/1976 Inspection Type :Reconnaissance Reason for Visit: Other
Page: 3

M
O-Vue- . 1=sum
PID.Box 98 • Little Switzerland, North Carolina 28749
Phone: (828) ROK -MINE (765.6463) • Office: [phone] • Fax: [phone]
E -Mail: [e-mail] • www emeraldvillage.com
August 20, 2015
Beverly Price
NCDENR
2090 US Highway -70.
Swannanoa, NC 28778
Ms. Price,
In reference to Wastewater Recycle System Permit #WQ0000331 issued in the name of Blue
Ridge Gemstone Mine, this is to notify you that we have not operated this system in several years,
and have made the determination that we wish to voluntarily relinquish this permit. We have no
plans to use this system and understand that if we ever do, we will start over from scratch.
We do wish to continue operating the Emerald Village system using the Wastewater Recycle
System Permit #WQ0006406 and remain in compliance of all rules and regulations, and will renew
that permit.
Please let me know if you have any questions or concerns. Thank you!
.Sincerely,
v�
A an Schabilion
Gi IVEC
Division of YJater Resources
z AUG 2 4 2015
Water (Z�iatttm� Regionai �b�rstions ��' .

Pat McCrory
Governor
NCDENR
North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources
Division of Water Resources
Water Quality Programs
Thomas A. Reeder John E. Skvarla, III
Director Secretary
October 1, 2013
Alan Schabilion, Owner
Blue Ridge Gemstone Mine
Emerald Village Mine
Post Office Box 98
Little Switzerland, NC 28749
SUBJECT: September 24, 2013
Compliance Evaluation Inspections
Blue Ridge Gemstone Mine
Emerald Village Gem Mine
Wastewater Recycle Systems
Permit No: WQ0000331
Permit No: WQ0006406
Mitchell County
Dear Mr. Schabilion:
Enclosed please find a copy of the Compliance Evaluation Inspection Forms from the
inspections conducted on September 24, 2013. The facilities were found to be in compliance
with permits WQ0000331 & WQ0006406.
Please refer to the enclosed inspection reports for additional observations and comments.
If you or your staff have any questions, please call me at [phone].
Sincerely,
6 Beverly P
Environmental Specialist
Enclosure
cc: APS Central Files
F`"7WQ-Asheville7Files
WATER QUALITY SECTION
North Carolina Division of Water Resources—Asheville Regional Office
2090 U.S. Highway 70, Swannanoa, N.C. 28778
Phone [phone]
FAX [phone]
Internet: h2o.enr.state.nc.us
An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer

!0000331
SOC:
County: Mitchell
Region: Asheville
Compliance Inspection Report
Effective: 07/31/09,- Expiration: 09/30/17
Effective: Expiration:
Owner: Blue Ridge Gemstone Mine
Facility: Blue Ridge Gemstone Mine
PO Box 98
Little Switzerland NC 28749
Contact Person: Alan R Schabilion Title: Owner Phone: [phone]
Directions to Facility:
Hwy 226-A to Little Switzerland. Take Crabtree Creek Road to McKinney Mine Road (left). Facility is located approximately 2.0 miles
�n the left.
ystem Classifications:
Primary ORC: certification: Phone:
Secondary ORC(s):
On -Site Representative(s):
24 hour contact name
On-site representative
Related Permits:
Inspection Date: 09/24/2013
Primary Inspector: Beverly Price
Secondary Inspector(s):
Alan R Schabilion
Alan R Schabilion
Entry Time: 01:30 PM
Reason for Inspection: Routine
Permit Inspection, Type: Closed -Loop Recycle
Facility Status: ■ Compliant ❑ Not Compliant
Question Areas: '
E Miscellaneous Questions
(See attachment summary)
Exit Time: 02:00 PM
Phone: [phone]
Phone: [phone]
Phone: [phone]
Inspection Type: Compliance Evaluation
Page: 1

Permit: WQ0000331 Owner - Facility: Blue Ridge Gemstone Mine
Inspection Date: 09/24/2013 Inspection Type: -Compliance Evaluation Reason for Visit: Rou
Inspection Summary:
This facility is not in operation. Mr. Schabilion indicated that he might open the mine in 2014.
Page: 2

0000331
SOC:
County: Mitchell
Region: Asheville
Compliance Inspection Report
Effective: 07/31/09 Expiration: 09/30/17 Owner: Blue Ridge Gemstone Mine
Effective: Expiration: Facility: Blue Ridge Gemstone Mine
PO Box 98
Little Switzerland NC 28749
Contact Person: Alan R Schabilion Title: Owner Phone: [phone]
Directions to Facility:
Hwy 226-A to Little Switzerland. Take Crabtree Creek Road to McKinney Mine Road (left). Facility is located approximately 2.0 miles
on the left.
System Classifications:
Primary ORC: Certification: Phone:
Secondary ORC(s):
On -Site Representative(s):
24 hour contact name
On-site representative
Related Permits:
Inspection Date: 09/24/2013
Primary Inspector: Beverly Price
Secondary Inspector(s):
Alan R Schabilion
Alan R Schabilion
Entry Time: 01:30 PM
Reason for Inspection: Routine
Permit Inspection Type: Closed -Loop Recycle
Facility Status: XCompliant Q Not Compliant
Question Areas:
E Miscellaneous Questions E Record Keeping
(See attachment summary)
Exit Time: 02:00 PM
Phone: [phone]
Phone: [phone]
Phone: [phone]
Inspection Type: Compliance Evaluation
Page: 1

Permit: WQ0000331 Owner - Facility: Blue Ridge Gemstone Mine.
Inspection Date: 09/24/2013 Inspection Type: Compliance Evaluation - Reason for Visit: Rou
Inspection Summary:
Record Keeping
Is a copy of current permit available?
Are monitoring reports present: NDMR?
NDAR?
Are flow rates less than of permitted flow?
Are flow rates less than of permitted flow?
Are application rates adhered to?
Is GW monitoring being conducted, if required (GW -59s submitted)?
Are all samples analyzed for all required parameters?
Are there any 2L GW quality violations?
Is GW -59A certification form completed for facility?
Is effluent sampled for same parameters as GW?
Do effluent concentrations exceed GW standards?
Are annual soil reports available?
# Are PAN records required?
# Did last soil report indicate a need for lime?
If so, has it been applied?
Are operational logs present?
Are lab sheets available for review?
Do lab sheets support data reported on NDMR?
Do lab sheets support data reported on GW -59s?
Are Operational and Maintenance records present?
Were Operational and Maintenance records complete?
Has permittee been free of public complaints in last 12 months?
Is a copy of the SOC readily available?
No treatment units bypassed since last inspection?
Comment:
Yes No NA NE
Page: 2

,0000331
SOC:
County: Mitchell
Region: Asheville
}
Compliance Inspection Report
Effective: 07/31/09 Expiration: 09/30/17 Owner: Blue Ridge Gemstone Mine
Effective: Expiration: Facility: Blue Ridge Gemstone Mine
PO Box 98
Little Switzerland NC 28749
Contact Person: Alan R Schabilion Title: Phone: [phone] .
Directions to Facility:
Hwy 226-A to Little Switzerland. Take Crabtree Creek Road to McKinney Mine Road (left). Facility is located approximately 2.0 miles
on the left.
System Classifications:
Primary ORC: Certification: Phone:
Secondary ORC(s):
On -Site Representative(s):
Related Permits:
Inspection Date: 08/28/2012
Primary Inspector: Beverly Price
Secondary Inspector(s):
I{300 11=-30
Entry Time;-99^3TAM Exit Time: 10:15 AM
Reason for Inspection: Routine
Permit Inspection Type: Wastewater Recycling
Facility Status: X Compliant ❑ Not Compliant
Question Areas:
Miscellaneous Questions 0 Treatment
(See attachment summary)
'�10 f � A -e- -5 7
Phone: [phone]
Inspection Type: Compliance Evaluation
Record Keeping Treatment Lagoons
Page: 1

Permit: WQ0000331 Owner - Facility: Blue Ridge Gemstone Mine
Inspection Date: 08/28/2012 Inspection Type: Compliance Evaluation Reason for Visit: Routin
Inspection Summary:
Page: 2

. lV�
04N&CM=mems. qr
PO Box 98 • Little Switzerland, North Carolina 28749
Phone: (828) ROK -MINE (765.6463) • Office: [phone] • Fax: [phone]
E -Mail: [e-mail] • www.emeraldvillage.com
April 6, 2011
NCDENR Water Quality
Attn: Beverly Price
2090 US 70 Highway
Swannanoa, NC 28778-8211
RE: Wastewater recycle permit #WQ0000331
Ms. -Price:
E-mail: [e-mail]
VR 0 7
I am writing regarding your letter last fall regarding a compliance evaluation inspection of Blue
Ridge Gemstone Mine (operated by Emerald Village) on 8/5/10. We have been closed over the winter
and I apologize for the delay in responding.
We have developed inspection and maintenance logs for this facility and they are available for
inspection. We have not opened this flume for the season and have work scheduled to bring it into
compliance. It is our hope to get this done soon and we will let you know when it has been completed
and we re -open for the season. Thank you for your cooperation.
Sincerely,
Alan Schabilion
cell 828-765-3148

saves Perdue
Governor
A&:J
NCDENR
North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural
Division of Water Quality
Coleen H. Sullins
Director
August 16, 2010
Alan Schabilion
Blue Ridge Gemstone Mine
Post Office Box 327
Little Switzerland, NC 28749
Resources
SUBJECT: August 5, 2010
Compliance Evaluation Inspection
Blue Ridge Gemstone Mine
Wastewater Recycle System
Permit No: WQ0000331
Mitchell County
Dear Mr. Schabillion:
� L [E_
Dee Freeman
Secretary
Enclosed please find a copy of the Compliance Evaluation Inspection form from the inspection conducted
on August 5, 2010. The facility was found to be Non -Compliant with permit W00000331 as it was discharging to an
adjacent stream.
Even though the system was not running on the day of the inspection and the water discharging was
makup water from the freshwater pond, this is a non-dischagre recycle system. The recycle pumps should be turned
on so that water from the flume can be recycled. The pipe from the second settling basin to the adjacent stream
should be removed. In addition, there were no maintenance/inspection records (see Permit Conditions 6. & 18.).
These issues should be addressed before the next inspection and prior to start-up of the system.
Please refer to the enclosed inspection report for additional observations and.comments. Thank you for
your assistance during the inspection. If you have any questions, please call me at [phone].
Sincerely,
Bever) e
Y
Environmental Specialist
Enclosure
cc: APS Central Files
A�aevilI ilesINN—
AQUIFER PROTECTION SECTION — Asheville Regional Office (ARO)
2090 U.S. 70 Highway, Swannanoa, NC 28778-8211
Phone: [phone] FAX: [phone]
Customer Service: 1-877-623-6748
Internet: www.ncwaterguality.om
An Equal Opportunity 1 Affirmative Action Employer
One
NorthCarohn.a

rerrnii: „JQ0000331
SOC:
County: Mitchell
Region: Asheville
Compliance Inspection Report
Effective: 07/31/09 Expiration: 09/30/16 Owner: Blue Ridge Gemstone Mine
Effective: Expiration: Facility: Blue Ridge Gemstone Mine
PO Box 327
Little Switzerland NC 28749
Contact Person: Alan R Schabilion Title: Owner Phone: [phone]
Directions to Facility:
Hwy 226-A to Little Switzerland. Take Crabtree Creek Road to McKinney Mine Road (left). Facility is located approximately 2.0 miles
on the left.
System Classifications:
Primary ORC: Certification: Phone:
Secondary ORC(s):
On -Site Representative(s):
24 hour contact name
On-site representative
Related Permits:
Inspection Date: 08/05/2010
Primary Inspector: Beverly Price
Secondary Inspector(s):
Alan R Schabilion
Alan R Schabilion
Entry Time: 10:15 AM
Reason for Inspection: Routine
Permit Inspection Type: Wastewater Recycling
Facility Status: 0 Compliant ■ Not Compliant
Question Areas:
N Miscellaneous Questions N Treatment
(See attachment summary)
Exit Time: 10:30 AM
Phone: [phone]
Phone: [phone]
Phone: [phone]
Inspection Type: Compliance Evaluation
0 Record Keeping
Page: 1

Permit: WQ0000331 Owner - Facility: Blue Ridge Gemstone Mine
Inspection Date: 08/05/2010 Inspection Type: Compliance Evaluation Reason for Visit: Rout...
Inspection Summary:
The second settling pond was discharging to a stream. The facility was not in operation on the day of the inspection. Per
Mr. Schabilion, the system has recycle pumps in place but they were not operational at the time of inspection. There were
no maintenance/inspection records.
Page: 2

Permit: WQ0000331 Owner - Facility: Blue Ridge Gemstone Mine
,)n Date: 08/05/2010 Inspection Type: Compliance Evaluation
Reason for Visit: Routine
Type
Yes
No
NA
NE
Infiltration System
Reuse (Quality)
❑
Lagoon Spray, LR
❑
Activated Sludge Spray, HR
❑
Single Family Spray, LR
Activated Sludge Spray, LR
Activated Sludge Drip, LR
n
Single Family Drip
❑
Recycle/Reuse
■
Treatment
Yes
No
NA
NE
Are Treatment facilities consistent with those outlined in the current permit?
■
O
D
0
Do all treatment units appear to be operational? (if no, note below.)
❑
■
Comment: Recycle pumps were not working. The second settling pond was
discharging to the stream.
Record Keeping
Yes
No
NA
NE
Is a copy of current permit available?
■
Q
El
Q
Are monitoring reports present: NDMR?
❑
Q
■
Q
NDAR?
❑O■El
Are flow rates less than of permitted flow?
❑
Q
■
0
Are flow rates less than of permitted flow?
❑
Q
■
❑
Are application rates adhered to?
❑
❑
■
Is GW monitoring being conducted, if required (GW -59s submitted)?
0
0
■
El
Are all samples analyzed for all required parameters?
Cl
❑
■
❑
Are there any 2L GW quality violations?
Q
11
■
0
Is GW -59A certification form completed for facility?
❑
0
■
Is effluent sampled for same parameters as GW?
Q
1
■
❑
Do effluent concentrations exceed GW standards?
C3
❑
■
❑
Are annual soil reports available?
O
Q
■
❑
# Are PAN records required?
El
❑
■
# Did last soil report indicate a need for lime?
Q
❑
■
❑
Page: 3

Permit: W00000331 Owner - Facility: Blue Ridge Gemstone Mine
Inspection Date: 08/05/2010 Inspection Type: Compliance Evaluation
Reason for Visit: Routine
If so, has it been applied?
❑
❑ ■
Cl
Are operational logs present?
❑
■ ❑
0
Are lab sheets available for review?
0
Q ■
■
Do lab sheets support data reported on NDMR?
n
n ■
n
Do lab sheets support data reported on GW -59s?
0
0 ■
Q
Are Operational and Maintenance records present?
■ ❑
Were Operational and Maintenance records complete?
❑
■ n
n
Has permittee been free of public complaints in last 12 months?
■
D Q
0
Is a copy of the SOC readily available?
0
n ■
No treatment units bypassed since last inspection?
■
0 O
n
Comment: No operation/maintenance records.
Page: 4

Permit: vvUuuu0331
SOC:
County: Mitchell
Region: Asheville
Compliance Inspection Report
Effective: 07/31/09 Expiration: 09/30/16 Owner: Blue Ridge Gemstone Mine
Effective: Expiration: Facility: Blue Ridge Gemstone Mine
PO Box 327
Contact Person: Alan R Schabilion
Directions to Facility:
System Classifications:
Primary ORC:
Secondary ORC(s):
On -Site Representative(s):
24 hour contact name
On-site representative
Related Permits:
Inspection Date: 08/05/2010
Primary Inspector: Beverly Price
Secondary Inspector(s):
Title:
Certification:
Alan R Schabilion
Alan R Schabilion
Little Switzerland NC 28749
Phone: [phone]
Entry Time: 10:15 AM Exit Time: 10:30 AM
Reason for Inspection: Routine
Permit Inspection Type: Wastewater Recycling
Facility Status: Q Compliant Not Compliant
Question Areas:
E Miscellaneous Questions Treatment
(See attachment summary)
G�vNn�S h�� y'llln ��°}
Phone:
Phone: [phone]
Phone: [phone]
Phone: [phone]
Inspection Type: Compliance Evaluation

Permit: WQ0000331 Owner - Facility: Blue Ridge Gemstone Mine
Inspection Date: 08/05/2010 Inspection Type: Compliance Evaluation Reason for Visit: Routin
Inspection Summary:
Treatment Yes No NA NE
Are Treatment facilities consistent with those outlined in the current permit? 12000
Do all treatment units appear to be operational? (if no, note below.) ❑ 0 n o
Comment:
Rc. etc 5vktr, 4j& --S rook u.5orV-'--� 5i?411- 5 cY
Page: 2

Richard A. Johnson
Blue Ridge Gem Mine
Post Office Box 327
Little Switzerland, NC 28749
Dear Mr. Johnson:
Michael F. Easley, Governor
I. William G. Ross Jr., Secretary
p r North Carolina Departmer ivironment and Natural Resources
7 — Alan W. Klimek, P.E. Director
h
i lid` J Division of Water Quality
Asheville Regional Office
AQUIFER PROTECTION
April 28, 2008
SUBJECT: April 28, 2008 Compliance
Evaluation Inspection
Blue Ridge Gem Mine
Permit No: WQ0000331
Mitchell County
Enclosed please find a copy of the Compliance Evaluation Inspection form from the
inspection conducted on April 28, 2008. The inspection was conducted by Ed Williams of the
Asheville Regional Office. The facility was found to be in Compliance with permit
WQ0000331.
Our records show that the subject permit expired on August 31, 2002 and you have
applied for renewal.
Please refer to the enclosed inspection report for additional observations and
comments. If you have any questions, please call me at 828/ 296-4500 .
Sip �erely,
I �
Ed Williams
Enclosure
cc: Central Files_
C7AsI evilla-Files - -
No c hCarolin
Naiurall11
North Carolina Division of Water Quality — Asheville Regional Office 2090 U.S. Highway 70 Swannanoa, NC 28778 Phone [phone]
Aquifer Protection Section FAX [phone]
Customer Service 1-877-623-6748'
Internet: h2o.enr.state.nc.us
An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer — 50% Recycled110% Post Consumer Paper

f
Compliance Inspection Report
Permit: WQ0000331 Effective: 09/16/97 Expiration: 08/31/02 Owner: Blue Ridge Gemstone Mine
SOC: Effective: Expiration: Facility: Blue Ridge Gemstone Mine
PO Box 327
County: Mitchell
Region: Asheville
Little Switzerland NC 28749
Contact Person: Richard A Johnson Title: Phone: [phone]
Directions to Facility:
-System Classifications:
Primary ORC: Certification: Phone:
Secondary ORC(s):
On -Site Representative(s):
Related Permits:
Inspection Date: 04/28/2008. Entry Time: 11:00 AM
Primary Inspector: Edward M Williams
Secondary Inspector(s):
Reason for Inspection: Routine
Permit Inspection Type: Wastewater Recycling
Facility Status: ■ Compliant Q Not Compliant
Question Areas:
0 Miscellaneous Questions
(See attachment summary)
Exit Time: 12:00 PM
Phone:
Inspection Type: Compliance Evaluation
Page: 1

Permit: WQ0000331 Owner - Facility: Blue Ridge Gemstone Mine
Inspection Date: 04/28/2008 Inspection Type: Compliance Evaluation Reason for Visit: Routine
Inspection Summary:
The recycle facility for the Blue Ridge Gem Mine appeared to be well maintained. he permit expired on 8/31/02 and Mr.
Johnson has applied for renewal.
Page: 2

C
AQUIFER PROTECTION SECTION
APPLICATION REVIEW REQUEST FORM
Date: May 14, 2008
To: ®
Landon Davidson, ARO -APS
❑
Art Barnhardt, FRO -APS
❑
Andrew Pitner, MRO -APS
❑
Jay Zimmerman, RRO-APS
RE nom, F „ V � ��.0
111
Q&_ 112008
�• �"�4'., �fG i r.. "iy zS 4 ..r ° �u
❑ David May, WaRO APS y �'
❑ Charlie Stehman; WiRO=APS "' "��--
❑ Sherri Knight, WSRO-APS
From: David Goodrich ,Land Application Unit
Telephone: [phone] Fax: [phone]
E -Mail. david.jzoodrichna,ncmail.net
A. Permit Number: WQ0000331
B. Owner: Richard A. Johnson
C. Facility/Operation: Blue Ridae Gemstone Mine
❑
Proposed
® Existing ® Facility
❑ Operation
D. Application:
1. Permit Type: ❑
Animal
❑ Surface Irrigation ❑ Reuse
❑ H -R Infiltration
®
Recycle
❑ I/E Lagoon ❑ GW Remediation (ND)
❑
UIC - (5QW) closed loop water only geothermal
For Residuals:
❑
Land App. ❑ D&M
❑ Surface Disposal
❑
503 ❑ 503 Exempt
❑ Animal
2. Project Type: ❑ New ❑ Major Mod. ❑ Minor Mod. ® Renewal ❑ Renewal w/ Mod.
E. Comments/Other Information: ® I would like to accompany you on a site visit.
3114FctFal date: 7 -2q -o'3
Attached, you will find all information submitted in support of the above -referenced application for your
review, comment, and/or action. Within 30 calendar days, please take the following actions:
® Return a Completed Form APSSRR.
❑ Attach Well Construction Data Sheet.
❑ Attach Attachment B for Certification by the LAPCU.
❑ Issue an Attachment B Certification from the RO*.
* Remember that you will be responsible for coordinating site visits, reviews, as well as additional
information requests with other RO-APS representatives in order to prepare a complete Attachment B for
certification. Refer to the RPP SOP for additional detail.
When you receive this request form, please write your name and dates in the spaces below, make a copy
of this sheet, and return ' o appropriate ntral Office -Aquifer Protection Section contact person
listed above. G
RO-APS Reviewer: Date: Z.
FORM: APSARR 02/06 Page 1 of 1

AQUIFER PRG ECTION REGIONAL ST.:--- E REPORT
�mber 29, 2008
10: AQuuer Protection Central Office
Central Office Reviewer: David Goodrich
Regional Login No:
County:_ Mitchell
Permittee: Richard A. Johnson
Project Name: Blue Ridge Gem Mine
Application No.:WQ0000331
L GENERAL INFORMATION
1. This application is (check all that apply): ❑ New ® Renewal
❑ Minor Modification ❑ Major Modification
Surface Irrigation ❑ Reuse ® Recycle ❑ High Rate Infiltration ❑ Evaporation/Infiltration Lagoon
❑ Land Application of Residuals ❑ Attachment B included ❑ 503 regulated ❑ 503 exempt
❑ Distribution of Residuals ❑ Surface Disposal
❑ Closed-loop Groundwater Remediation ❑ Other Injection Wells (including in situ remediation)
Was a site visit conducted in order to prepare this report? ® Yes or ❑ No.
a. Date of site visit: April 28, 2008
b. Person contacted and contact information: Richard A. Johnson 828/765-5264
c. Site visit conducted by: Ed Williams
d. Inspection Report Attached: ® Yes or ❑ No.
2. Is the following information entered into the BIMS record for this application correct?
® Yes or ❑ No.' If no, please complete the following or indicate that it is correct on the current application.
For Treatment Facilities:
a. Location:
b. Driving Directions:
c. USGS Quadrangle Map name and number:
d. Latitude: Longitude:
e. Regulated Activities / Type of Wastes (e.g., subdivision, food processing, municipal wastewater): Recycle
water for recreational gem mine sluice
For Disposal and Iniection Sites: n/a
(If multiple sites either indicate which sites the information applies to, cry and paste a new section into the
document for each site, or attach additional pages for each site)
a. Location(s):
b. Driving Directions:
c. USGS Quadrangle Map name and number:
d. Latitude: Longitude:
II. NEWAND MAJOR MODIFICATIONAPPLICATIONS (this section not needed for renewals or minor
modifications, skip to next section)
Description Of Waste(S) And Facilities
1. Please attach completed rating sheet. Facility Classification:
FORM: Blue Ridge Gem Mine staff report 2008.doc1

AQUIFER PRoTECTI®N REGIONAL STAFF REPORT
2. Are the new treatment facilities adequate for the type of waste and disposal system?
❑ Yes ❑ No ❑ N/A. If no, please explain:
3. Are the new site conditions (soils, topography, depth to water table, etc) consistent with what was reported by
the soil scientist and/or Professional Engineer? ❑ Yes ❑ No ❑ N/A. If no, please explain:
4. Does the application (maps, plans, etc.) represent the actual site (property lines, wells, surface drainage)? ❑
Yes ❑ No ❑ N/A. If no, please explain:
5. Is the proposed residuals management plan adequate and/or acceptable to the Division. ❑ Yes ❑ No ❑
N/A. If no, please explain:
6. Are the proposed application rates for new sites (hydraulic or nutrient) acceptable?
❑ Yes ❑ No ❑ N/A. If no, please explain:
7. Are the new treatment facilities or any new disposal sites located in a 100 -year floodplain?
❑ Yes ❑ No ❑ N/A. If yes, please attach a map showing areas of 100 -year floodplain and please explain
and recommend any mitigative measures/special conditions in Part IV:
8. Are there any buffer conflicts (new treatment facilities or new disposal sites)? ❑ Yes or ❑ No. If yes, please
_.....__....-------...-_... — - - ._._._.-....._..--- .--.- -
attach a map showing conflict areas or attach any new maps you have received from the applicant to lie
incorporated into the permit:
9. Is proposed and/or existing groundwater monitoring program (number of wells, frequency of monitoring,
monitoring parameters, etc.) adequate? ❑ Yes ❑ No ❑ N/A. Attach map of existing monitoring well
network if applicable. Indicate the review and compliance boundaries. If No, explain and recommend any
changes to the groundwater monitoring program:
10. For residuals, will seasonal or other restrictions be required? ❑ Yes ❑ No ❑ N/A If yes, attach list of sites
with restrictions (Certification B?)
III. RENEWAL AND MODIFICATIONAPPLICATIONS (use previous section for new or maior modification
systems)
Description Of Waste(S) And Facilities N/A
1. Are there appropriately certified ORCs for the facilities? ❑ Yes or ❑ No. N/A
Operator in Charge: Certificate #:
Backup- Operator in Charge: Certificate #:
2. Is the design, maintenance and operation (e.g. adequate aeration, sludge wasting,, sludge storage, effluent
storage, etc) of the treatment facilities adequate for the type of waste and disposal system? N Yes or ❑ No.
If no, please explain:
3. Are the site conditions (soils, topography, depth to water table, etc) maintained appropriately and adequately
assimilating the waste? ❑ Yes or ❑ No. If no, please explain: N/A
FORM: Blue Ridge Gem Mine staff report 2008.doc2

AQUIFER PIT ECTION REGI®NAL ST_ F REPORT
site changed in any way that may affect permit (drainage added, new wells inside the compliance
boundary, new development, etc.)? If yes, please explain:
5. Is the residuals management plan for the facility adequate and/or acceptable to the Division?
❑ Yes or ❑ No. If no, please explain: N/A
6. Are the existing application rates (hydraulic or nutrient) still acceptable? ❑ Yes or ❑ No. If no, please
explain: N/A
7. Is the existing groundwater monitoring program (number of wells, frequency of monitoring, monitoring
parameters, etc.) adequate? ❑ Yes ❑ No ® N/A. Attach map of existing monitoring well network if
applicable. Indicate the review and compliance boundaries. If No, explain and recommend any changes to the
groundwater monitoring program:
8. Will seasonal or other restrictions be required for added sites? -❑ Yes ❑ No ® N/A If yes, attach list of sites
with restrictions (Certification B?)
9. Are there any buffer conflicts (treatment facilities or disposal sites)? ❑ Yes or ® No. If yes, please attach a
map showing conflict areas or attach any new maps you have received from the applicant to be incorporated
into the permit:
10. Is the description of the facilities, type and/or volume of waste(s) as written in the existing permit correct?
Yes or ❑ No. If no, please explain:
11. Were monitoring wells properly constructed and located? ❑ Yes or ❑ No ® N/A. If no, please explain:
12. Has a review of all self-monitoring data been conducted (GW, NDMR, and NDAR as applicable)? ❑ Yes or
❑ No ® N/A. Please summarize any findings resulting from this review:
13. Check. all that apply: ® No compliance issues; ❑ Notice(s) of violation within the last permit cycle; ❑
Current enforcement action(s) ❑ Currently under SOC; ❑ Currently under JOC; ❑ Currently under
moratorium. If any items checked, please explain and attach any documents that may help clarify
answer/comments (such as NOV, NOD etc):
14. Have all compliance dates/conditions in the existing permit, (SOC, JOC, etc.) been complied with? ❑ Yes
❑ No ❑ Not Determined ® N/A.. If no, please explain:
15. Are there any issues related to compliance/enforcement that should be resolved before issuing this permit? ❑
Yes or ® No ❑ N/A. If yes, please explain:
FORM: Blue Ridge Gem Mine staff report 2008.doc3

AQUIFER PRvfECTION REGIONAL, STAFF REPORT
ITS INJECTION WELL PERMIT APPLICATIONS (Complete these two sections for all systems that use inject
wells, including closed-loop groundwater remediation effluent injection wells, in situ remediation injection wells, and heat
pump injection wells.)
Description Of Well(S) And Facilities — New, Renewal, And Modification
1. Type of injection system:
❑ Heating/cooling water return flow (5A7)
❑ Closed-loop heat pump system (5QM/5QW)
❑ In situ remediation (5I)
❑ Closed-loop groundwater remediation effluent injection (5L/"Non-Discharge") .
❑ Other (Specify:
2. Does system use same well for water source and injection? ❑ Yes ❑ No
3. Are there any potential pollution sources that may affect injection? R. Yes ❑ No
What is/are the pollution source(s)? What is the distance of the injection well(s) from the pollution
source(s)? ft.
4. What is the minimum distance of proposed injection wells from the property boundary? ft.
5. Quality of drainage at site: ❑ Good ❑ Adequate . ❑ Poor
6. Flooding potential of site: ❑ Low ❑ Moderate ❑ High
7. For groundwater remediation systems, is the proposed and/or existing groundwater monitoring program
(number of wells, frequency of monitoring, monitoring parameters, etc.) adequate? ❑ Yes ❑ No. Attach
map of existing monitoring well network if applicable. If No, explain and recommend any changes to the
groundwater monitoring program:
8. Does the map presented represent the actual.site (property lines, wells, surface drainage)? ❑ Yes or ❑ No. If
no or no map, please attach a sketch of the site. Show property boundaries, buildings, wells, potential pollution
sources, roads, approximate scale, and north arrow.
Iniection Well Permit Renewal And Modification Only:
1. For heat pump systems, are there any abnormalities in heat pump or injection well operation (e.g. turbid water,
failure to assimilate injected fluid, poor heating/cooling)?
❑ Yes ❑ No. If yes, explain:
2. For closed-loop heat pump systems, has system lost pressure or required make-up fluid since permit issuance
or last inspection? ❑ Yes ❑ No. If yes, explain:
3. For renewal or modification of groundwater remediation permits (of any type), will
continued/additional/modified injections have an adverse impact on migration of the plume or management of
the contamination incident? ❑ Yes ❑ No. If yes, explain:
4. Drilling contractor: Name:
FORM: Blue Ridge Gem Mine staff report 2008.doc4

AQUIFER PRO iECTION REGIONAL ST��'F REPORT
Address:
Certification number:
5. Complete and attach Well Construction Data Sheet.
G
FORM: Blue Ridge Gem Mine staff report 2008.doc5

AQUIFER PROTECTION REGIONAL STAFF REPORT
Y. EVALUATIONAND RECOMMENDATIONS
1. Provide any additional narrative regarding your review of the application.:
2. Attach Well Construction Data Sheet - if needed information is available
3. Do you foresee any problems with issuance/renewal of this permit? ❑ Yes ® No. If yes, please explain
briefly.
4. List any items that you would like APS Central Office to obtain through an additional information request.
Make sure that you provide a reason for each item:
Item Reason
5. List specific Permit conditions that you recommend to be removed from the permit when issued. Make sure
that you provide a reason for each condition:
Condition Reason
6. List specific special conditions or compliance schedules that you recommend to be included in the permit when
issued. Make sure that you provide a reason for each special condition:
7
Condition Reason
Recommendation: ❑ Hold, pending receipt and review of additional information by regional office; ❑ Hold,
pending review of draft permit by regional office; ❑ Issue upon receipt of needed additional information;
Issue; ❑ Deny. If deny, please st r souse y
8. Signature of report preparers)
Signature ofPS regional sup,
Date: C 0
ADDITIONAL REGIONAL STAFF REVIEW ITEMS
FORM: Blue Ridge Gem Mine staff report 2008.doc6

Compliance Inspection Report
Permit: WQ0000331 Effective: 09/16/97 Expiration: 08/31/02 Owner: blue Kidge vemstone Mine
SOC: Effective: Expiration: Facility: Blue Ridge Gemstone Mine
County: Mitchell PO Box 327
Region: Asheville
Little Switzerland NC 28749
Contact Person: Richard A Johnson Title: Phone: [phone]
Directions to Facility:
System Classifications:
Primary ORC: Certification: Phone:
Secondary ORC(s):
On -Site Representative(s):
Related Permits:
Inspection Date: 04/28/2008 Entry Time: 11:00 AM Exit Time: 12:00 PM
Primary Inspectors...Edward M Williams .:. ......... ..:...... Phone:............_ .... ..... - ... ........
Secondary Inspector(s):
Reason for Inspection:' Routine
Permit Inspection Type: Wastewater Recycling
Facility Status:_ ■ Compliant Q Not Compliant
Question Areas:
0 Miscellaneous Questions
(See attachment summary)
Inspection Type: Compliance Evaluation
Page: 1

Permit: WQ0000331 Owner - Facility: Blue Ridge Gemstone Mine
Inspection Date: 04/28/2008 Inspection Type: Compliance Evaluation Reason for Visit: Routine
Inspection Summary:
The recycle facility for the Blue Ridge Gem Mine appeared to be well maintained. he permit expired on 8/31/02 and Mr.
Johnson has applied for renewal.
Page: 2

er WQ0000331
Central Files: APS SWP
05/13/08
Permit Tracking Slip
Program Category
Status
Project Type
Non -discharge
In review
Renewal
Permit Type
Version
Permit Classification
Wastewater Recycling
A
Individual
Primary Reviewer
david.goodrich
Permitted Flow
Facilit
Permit Contact Affiliation
Facility Name Major/Minor Region
Blue Ridge Gemstone Mine Minor Asheville
Location Address County
PO Box 327 Mitchell
Little Switzerland NC 28749 Facility Contact Affiliation
Owner Name
Blue Ridge Gemstone Mine
Owner Type
Non -Government
Owner Affiliation
Richard Johnson
PO Box 327
Little Switzerland NC 28749
Scheduled
Orig Issue App Received Draft Initiated Issuance Public Notice Issue Effective Expiration
09/16/88 04/30/08
Regulated Activities Requested/Received Events
Gem mining Additional information received
Additional information requested
RO staff report requested
RO staff report received
Outfall NULL
Waterbody Name Stream Index Number Current Class Subbasin

Richard Johnson
Blue Ridge Gemstone Mine
PO Box 327
Little Switzerland, NC 28749
Michael F. Easley, Governor
William G. Ross Jr., Secretary
North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources
May 13, 2008
Subject: Acknowledgement of Application No. WQ0000331
Blue Ridge Gemstone Mine
Wastewater Recycling
Mitchell
Dear Richard A. Johnson:
Coleen H. Sullins Director
Division of Water Quality
The Aquifer Protection Section of the Division of Water Quality (Division) acknowledges receipt of your permit
application and supporting materials on April 30, 2008. This application package has been assigned the number
listed above and will be reviewed by David Goodrich.
The reviewer will perform a detailed review and contact you with a request for additional information if necessary.
To ensure the maximumefficiency in processing permit applications, the Division requests your assistance in
providing a timely and complete response to any additional information requests.
Please be aware that the Division's Regional Office, copied below, must provide recommendations prior to final
action by the Division. Please also 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 David Goodrich at 919-715-6162, or via e-mail at
[e-mail]. If the.reviewer is unavailable, you may leave a message, and they will respond
promptly. Also note that the Division has reorganized. To review our new organizational chart, go to
hqp://h2o.enr.state.ne.us/documents/dwq_orachart.pdf.
PLEASE REFER TO THE ABOVE APPLICATION NUMBER WHEN MAKING INQUIRIES ON THIS
PROJECT.
Sincerely,
for Kim H. Colson, PE
Supervisor
cc: Asheville Regional Office, Aquifer Protection Section
-•Peiim�Applicio=.le_WQ000033.1'
Aquifer Protection Section 1636 Mail Service Center
Internet: www.ncwateroualitv.oro Location: 2728 Capital Boulevard
An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer— 50% Recycled/10% Post Consumer Paper
NorthCarolina
Awitra!!y
Raleigh, NC 27699-1636 Telephone: [phone]
Raleigh, NC 27604 Fax 1: [phone]
Fax 2: [phone]
Customer Service: [phone]

State of North Carolina
Department of Environment and Natural Resources
Division of Water Quality
rCChu i.lYI... ,.-.....- — - -
Aquifer protec-tion SecliOft
OR. 3 0 200B
INSTRUCTIONS FOR FORM: WWR 09-06 .
(RENEWAL WITHOUT MODIFICATION OF WASTEWATER NON -DISCHARGE SYSTEMS)
For more information or for an electronic version of this form, visit the Land Application Unit (LA U) web site at:
httn: //h2 o. enr. State. 17C. us/laulmain./itmi
This form is for renewal without modification for all wastewater non -discharge systems. Wastewater non -discharge
systems include: High Rate Infiltration Systems; Infiltration/Evaporation Lagoons; Reclaimed Water Utilization
Systems; Wastewater Recycle Systems; Single Family Surface Irrigation Systems; and Surface Irrigation Systems.
This application may not be used for renewal ofLand Application of Residuals Permits.
A. Application Form (All Application Packages):
✓ Submit one (1) original and two (2) copies of the completed and appropriately executed application form.
Any changes made to this form will result in the application package being returned.
✓ If the Applicant is a corporation or company, it must be registered for business with the NC Secretary of
State(hllp://www.secretary.state.ne.us/Corporations/CSearcii.aspx).
✓ If the Applicant is a partnership, sole proprietorship, trade name, or d/b/a enclose a copy of the certificate
filed with the register of deeds in the county of business.
✓ The application must be signed appropriately in accordance with 15A NCAC 2T .0106(b). An alternate
person may be designated as the signing official, provided that a delegation letter is provided from a person
who meets the referenced criteria. You may download an example delegation letter from the LAU web site.
✓ Submit three (3) copies of the most recently issued existing permit.
B. Additional Forms (Single Family Residence Surface Irrigation Systems Only):
✓ -Submit one (1) original and two (2) copies of a completed and properly executed FORM: SFR O&M 09-
06. This Form may be downloaded at: http://h2o.enr.state.nc.us/lau/applications.htm]#Single
C. Site Map
✓ Submit three (3) copies of an updated site map if required as part of the original submittal in accordance
with 15A NCAC 2T .0105(d).
I. GENERAL INFORMATION:
1. Permittee's name (Owner of the facility): 4 4y r -d A • 7%7wsC /v
2. Complete mailing address of Permittee: 5;--17z"
"Ve 9'
City: /;rt/L- /V/uw State: /V Zip:
Telephone number:(VqFacsimile number: U
Email Address: C-t-ld:yecre a.,; ,'ref/ Siitr7 iti,d'f"
3. Facility name (name of the subdivision; shopping center, etc.):
4. . Complete address of the physical location of the facility (if different from above):
City: 5"t"; >z e-ry-/2 State: lV e Zip:
5. County where project is located: /!,,`i e40/
6. Name and affiliation of contact person who can answer questions about project:
Ills] NNJWISANiMOW' ''I
Email Address:
Page 1

II. PERMIT INFORMATION::
1. Existing permit number %.,'. i QI 00()0 :j7 I and the issuance date I 1 1(, 1 G7
2. Existing permit type:
❑ High -Rate Infiltration ❑ Evaporation Lagoons ❑ Reclaimed Water Utilization
❑ Single Family Surface Irrigation ❑ Surface Irrigation Wastewater Recycle
3. Has the treatment.and disposal system been constructed? Yes ❑ No
4. If the system has not been constructed would you like to rescind your permit (i.e. the permitted facilities
will not be needed)? ❑ Yes 0 No
5. Has the wastewater system been connected to a municipal or community sewer system? ❑ Yes `7 No
Applicant's Certification [signing authority must be in compliance with 15A NCAC 2'T' .0106(b)1:
(signing authority name and title)
attest that this'application for -1/G1 G A o �i'�eM W/x' -e—
(facility
(facility name)
has been reviewed by me and is accurate and complete to the best of my knowledge. I understand that any discharge
of wastewater from this non -discharge system to surface waters or the land will result in an immediate enforcement
action that may include civil penalties, injunctive relief, and/or criminal prosecution. I will make no claim against
the Division of Water Quality should a condition of this permit be violated. I also understand that if all required
parts of this application package are not completed and that if all required supporting information and attachments
are not included, this application package will be returned to me as incomplete. I further certify that the applicant or
any affiliate has not been convicted of an environmental crime, hasnot abandoned a wastewater facility without
proper closure, does not have an outstanding civil penalty where all appeals have been exhausted or abandoned, are
compliant with any active compliance schedule, and do not have any overdue annual fees under Rule 2T .0105.
Note: In accordance with NC General Statutes 143-215.6A and 143-215.613, any person who knowingly makes any
false statement, representation, or certification in any application package shall be guilty of a Class 2 misdemeanor,
which may include a fine not to exceed $10,000 as well as civil penalties up to $25,000 per violation.
r
Signature: ,'doz!f1i � 5e 111-711/ Date: O 7in
THE COMPLETED RENEWAL APPLICATION SHALL BE SENT TO THE FOLLOWING ADDRESS:
NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENT AND NATURAL RESOURCES
DIVISION OF WATER QUALITY
AQUIFER PROTECTION SECTION
By U.S. Postal Service:
1636 MAIL SERVICE CENTER
RALEIGH, NORTH CAROLINA 27699-1636
TELEPHONE NUMBER: [phone]
FORM: WWR 09-06 Page 2
By Courier/Special Delivery:
2728 CAPITAL BOULEVARD
RALEIGH, NORTH CAROLINA 27604
FAX NUMBER: [phone]

1
of North Carolina'---
, rnent of Environment,
,,ealth and Natural Resources
=` Division of Water Quality
James B. Hunt, Jr., Governor
Wayne McDevitt,Secretary
A. Preston Howard, Jr., P..E.,'Director
Mr. Richard A. Johnson
Blue Ridge Gem Mine
Post Office Box 327
Little Switzerland, North Carolina 28749
Dear Mr. Johnson:
A1 "4?*, 14 V1%
C)EHN1=1
September. 16, 1997
Subject: Permit No. WQ0000331
Blue Ridge Gem Mine
Wastewater Recycle System
Mitchell County -
In accordance with your application received July..,14, 1997, we are forwarding herewith Permit
No. WQ0000331, dated September 16, 1997, to you for the continued operation of the subject wastewater
recycle system.
This permit shall be effective from the date of issuance until August 31, 2002, shall void Permit
• No. WQ0000331, issued March 31, 1993, and shall be subject to the conditions and limitations as
specified therein. Please pay particular attention to the monitoring requirements in this permit. Failure to
establish an adequate system for collecting and maintaining the required operational information will result
in future compliance problems.
If any parts, requirements, or limitations contained in this permit are unacceptable, you have the
right to request an adjudicatory hearing upon written request within thirty (30) days following receipt of
this permit. This request must be in the form of a written petition, conforming to Chapter 150B of North
Carolina General Statutes, and filed with the Office of Administrative Hearings, P.O. Drawer .27447,
Raleigh, NC 27611-7447. Unless such demands are made this permit shall be final and binding.
If you need additional information concerning this matter, please contact RcklVlooreat (919) 733-
5083 extension 527.
l� 7
Preston Howard; Jr., P.E.
cc: Mitchell County Health Department
Asheville Regional Office, Water Quality Section
Training and Certification Unit (no revised rating)
Facilities Assessment Unit
P.O. Box 29535, Raleigh, North Carolina 27626-0535 Telephone [phone] FAX [phone]
An Equal Opportunity Affirmative Action Employer 50% recycled/ 10% post -consumer paper

NORTH CAROLINA
ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT COMMISSION
DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENT, HEALTH AND NATURAL RESOURCES
RALEIGH
RECYCLE SYSTEM PERMIT
In accordance with the provisions of Article 21 of Chapter 143, General Statutes of North Carolina as
amended, and other applicable Laws, Rules, and Regulations
PERMISSION IS HEREBY GRANTED TO
Blue Ridge Gem Mine
. Mitchell County
FOR THE
continued operation of a 50,000 GPD -wastewater recycle system consisting of two solids settling basins in
series (40 ft. by 10 ft. by 6 ft. and 60 ft. by 20 ft. by 6 ft.), a 96 GPM and a 50 GPM recirculation pump,
a 100 ft. flume line, an 80 GPM pump which is used to pump. make-up water from the abandoned mine, a
90 ft. by 105 ft. main pond and all appurtenances to serve the Blue Ridge Gem Mine with no discharge of
wastes to the surface waters, pursuant to the application received July 14, 1997, and in conformity with
the project plan, specifications, and other supporting data subsequently filed and approved by the
Department of Environment, Health and Natural Resources and considered a part of this permit.
, This permit shall be effective from the date of issuance until August 31, 2002, shall void Permit
No. WQ0000331, issued March 31, 1993, and shall be subject to the following specified conditions and
limitations:
1. This permit shall become voidable unless the facilities are constructed in accordance with
the conditions of this permit, the approved plans and specifications, and other supporting
data.
2. This permit is effective only with respect to the nature and volume of wastes described in
the application and other supporting data.
3. The facilities shall be properly maintained and operated at all times.
4. This permit is not transferable. In the event there is a desire for the facilities to change
ownership, or there is a name change of the Permittee, a formal permit request must be
submitted to the Division of Water Quality accompanied by an application fee,
documentation from the parties involved, and other supporting materials as may be
appropriate. The approval of the request will be considered on its merits and may or may
not be approved.
5. In the event that the facilities.fail to perform satisfactorily, including the creation of
nuisance conditions, the Permittee shall take immediate corrective action, including those -
.actions that may be required by this Division, such as the construction of additional or
replacement treatment or disposal facilities.

J
The residuals generated from these treatment facilities must be disposed in accordance with
General Statute 143-215.1 and in a manner approved by the North Carolina Division of
Water Quality.
7. The issuance of this permit shall not relieve the Permittee of the responsibility for damages
to surface or groundwaters resulting from the operation of this facility.
8. The facilities shall be effectively maintained and operated as a non -discharge system to
prevent the discharge of any wastewater resulting from the operation of this facility.
9. Diversion or bypassing of untreated wastewater from the treatment facilities is prohibited.
10. Freeboard in the settling ponds shall not be less than.two feet at any time.
11. No wastewater from the mining operation shall be discharged into the abandoned mine
shaft at any time.
12. Any monitoring deemed necessary by the Division of Water Quality to insure surface and
ground water protection will be established and an acceptable sampling reporting schedule
shall be followed.
13. Adequate inspection, maintenance, and cleaning shall be provided by the Permittee to
insure proper operation of the subject facilities.
14. The Permittee. or his designee shall inspect the wastewater recycle facilities to -prevent
malfunctions and deterioration, operator errors and discharges which may cause or lead to
the release of wastes to the environment, a threat to human health, or ® a.nuisance. The Permittee shall maintain an inspection log or summary including at least the date and time of
inspection, observations made, and any maintenance, repairs, or corrective actions taken by
the Permittee. This log of inspections shall be maintained by the Permittee for a period of
three years from the date of the inspection and shall be made available to the Division of
Water Quality or other permitting authority, upon request.
15. Any duly authorized officer, employee, or representative of the Division of Water Quality
may, upon presentation of credentials, enter and inspect any property, premises or place -on
or related to the recycle system at any reasonable time- for the purpose of determining
compliance with this permit, may inspect or copy any records that must be maintained
under the terms and conditions of this permit, and may obtain samples of groundwater,
surface water, or leachate.
16. The annual administering and compliance fee must be paid by the Permittee within thirty
(30) days after being billed by the Division. Failure to pay the fee accordingly may cause
the Division to initiate action to revoke this permit as specified by 15A NCAC 2H .0205
(c)(4)•
17. Failure to abide by the conditions and limitations contained in this permit may subject the
Permittee to an enforcement action by the Division of Water Quality in accordance with
North Carolina General Statute 143-215.6(a) to 143=215.6(c).
18. The issuance of this permit does not preclude the Permittee from complying with any and
all statutes,. rules, regulations, or ordinances which may be imposed by other government
agencies (local, state, and federal) which have jurisdiction.
19. A set of approved plans and specifications for the subject project must be retained by the
Permittee for the life of this project.

20. Noncompliance Notification:
The Permittee shall report by telephone to the Asheville Regional Office, telephone number
[phone] 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 wastewater treatment facility which results in the treatment of
significant amounts of wastes which. are abnormal in quantity or characteristic, such as
the dumping of the contents of a basin or tank, 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 renders the facility
incapable of adequate wastewater treatment, such as mechanical or electrical failures of
pumps, aerators, compressors, etc.;
c. Any failure of a pumping station, sewer line, or treatment facility resulting in a by-pass
directly to receiving waters without treatment of all or any portion of the influent to
such station or facility; or
d. Any time that self-monitoring information indicates that the facility is not in compliance
with its permit limitations.
Persons reporting such occurrences by telephone shall also file a written report in letter
form within five (5) days following first knowledge of the occurrence. This report must
outline the actions taken or proposed to be taken to ensure that the problem does not recur.
21. Upon classification of the facility by the Certification Commission, the Permittee shall
employ a certified wastewater treatment plant operator to be in responsible charge (ORC) of
the wastewater treatment facilities. The operator must hold a certificate of the type and
grade at least equivalent to or greater than the classification assigned to the wastewater
treatment facilities by the Certification Commission. The Permittee must also employ a
certified back-up operator of the appropriate type and grade to comply with the conditions
of Title 15A, Chapter 8A, .0202. The ORC of the facility must visit each Class I facility at
least weekly and each Class H, III, and IV facility at least daily, excluding weekends and
holidays, and must properly manage and document daily operation and maintenance of the
facility and must comply with all other conditions of Title 15A, Chapter 8A, .0202.
22. The Permittee, at least six (6) months prior to the expiration of this permit, shall request its
extension. Upon receipt of the request, the- Commission will review the adequacy of the
facilities described therein, and if warranted, will extend the permit for such period of time
and under such conditions and limitations as it may deem appropriate.
Permit issued this the sixteenth day of September, 1997.
NOR7CINA ENMENTAL MANAGEMENT COMMISSION
5,
Yk, Preston Howard, Jr., P.E., Director
Division of Water Quality -
By Authority of the Environmental Management Commission
Permit- Number WQ0000331

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State of North Carolina
Department of Environment and Natural Resources
Division of Water Quality
INSTRUCTIONS FOR FORM: WWR 09-06
(RENEWAL WITHOUT MODIFICATION OF WASTEWATER NON -DISCHARGE SYSTEMS)
For more information or for an electronic version of this form, visit the Land Application Unit (LAU) web site at:
hQ://h?o. enr.state. nc. us/lau/rnain. html
This form is for renewal without modification for all wastewater non -discharge systems. Wastewater non -discharge
systems include: High Rate Infiltration Systems; Inf ltration/Evaporation Lagoons; Reclaimed Water Utilization
Systems; Wastewater Recycle Systems; Single Family Surface Irrigation Systems; and Surface Irrigation Systems.
This application may not be used for renewal o Land Application ofResiduals Permits.
A. Application Form (All Application Packages):
✓ Submit one (1) original and two (2) copies of the completed and appropriately executed application form.
Any changes made to this form will result in the application package being returned.
✓ If the Applicant is a corporation or company, it must be registered for business with the NC Secretary of
State (http://www.secretary.state.nc.us/Corporations/CSearch.aspx).
✓ If the Applicant is a partnership, sole proprietorship, trade name, or d/b/a enclose a copy of the certificate
filed with the register of deeds in the county of business.
✓ The application must be signed appropriately in accordance with 15A NCAC 2T .0106(b). An alternate
person may be designated as the signing official, provided that a delegation letter is provided from a person
who meets the referenced criteria. You may download an example delegation letter from the LAU web site.
✓ Submit three (3) copies of the most recently issued existing permit.
B. Additional Forms (Single Family Residence Surface Irrigation Systems Only):
✓ Submit one (1) original and two (2) copies of a completed and properly executed FORM: SFR O&M 09-
06. This Form may be downloaded at: http://h2o.enr.state.nc.us/la6/applications.html#Single
C. Site Map
✓ Submit three (3) copies of an updated site map if required as part of the original submittal in accordance
with 15A NCAC 2T ,0105(d).
I. GENERAL INFORMATION:
1. Permittee's name (Owner of the facility): 4 a f -d A, JUI71,f a /✓
2. Complete mailing address of Permittee: Y17 .G X & ,E4 /1'/C`
City: /V/vol State: V 4 Zip:
Telephone number: (4 .2f5= Facsimile number: ( )
Email Address: VO nJ;
3. Facility name (name of the subdivision, shopping center, etc.): .4s X/ 10 Al iAl
a
4. Complete address of the physical location of the facility (if different from above):
'fU��i✓aP9f/-1 lil✓G� �f1_ �y
City: .L; #/0 State: /V e Zip: r�5/
5. County where project is located: /t'IAe` &%
6. Name and affiliation of contact person who can answer questions about project:
Email Address:
FORM: WWR 09-06 Page 1

,ERMIT INFORMATION:
Existing permit number' Q. 0 L oo 3^� and the issuance date 1 l0 61
2. Existing permit type;
❑ High -Rate Infiltration ❑ Evaporation Lagoons ❑ Reclaimed Water Utilization
❑ Single Family Surface Irrigation ❑ Surface Irrigation Wastewater Recycle
3. Has the treatment and disposal system been constructed? Yes ❑ No
4. If the system has not been constructed would you like to rescind your permit (i.e. the permitted facilities
will not be needed)? ❑ Yes ❑ No.
5. Has the wastewater system been connected to"a municipal or community sewer system? ❑ Yes iV7 No
Applicant's Certification [signing authority must be in compliance with 15A NCAC 2T .0106(b)]:
I,
authority name and title)
attest that this application for
(facility name)
has been reviewed by me and is accurate and complete to the best of my knowledge. I understand that any discharge
of wastewater from this non -discharge system to surface waters or the land will result in an immediate enforcement
action that may include civil penalties, injunctive relief, and/or criminal prosecution. I will make no claim against
the Division of Water.Quality should a condition of this permit be violated: I also understand that if all required
parts of this application package are not completed and that if all required supporting, information and attachments
are not included, this application package will be returned to me as incomplete. I further certify that the applicant or
any affiliate has not been convicted of an environmental crime, has not abandoned a wastewater facility without
proper closure, does not have an outstanding civil penalty where all appeals have been exhausted or abandoned, are
compliant with any active compliance schedule, and do not have any overdue annual fees under Rule 2T .0105.
Note: In accordance with NC General Statutes 143-215.6A and 143-215.6B, any person who knowingly makes any
false statement, representation, or certification in any application package shall be guilty of a Class 2 misdemeanor,
which may include a fine not to exceed $10,000 as well as civil penalties up to $25,000 per violation.
Signature: -»/ Date: Z Oil
THE COMPLETED RENEWAL APPLICATION SHALL BE SENT TO THE FOLLOWING ADDRESS:
NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENT AND NATURAL RESOURCES
DIVISION OF WATER QUALITY -
AQUIFER PROTECTION SECTION
By U.S. Postal Service:
1636 MAIL SERVICE CENTER
RALEIGH, NORTH CAROLINA 27699-1636
TELEPHONE NUMBER: [phone]
FORM: W WR 09-06
Page 2
By Courier/Special Delivery:
2728 CAPITAL BOULEVARD
RALEIGH, NORTH CAROLINA 27604
FAX NUMBER: [phone]

lional Off
May
Richard Johnson
Blue Ridge Gemstone Mine
PO Box 327
Little Switzerland, NC 28749
Subject: Acknowledgement of Application No. WQ0000331
Blue Ridge Gemstone Mine
Wastewater Recycling
Mitchell
Dear Richard A. Johnson:
William G. Ross Jr., Secretary
North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources
Coleen H. Sullins Director
Division of Water Quality
The Aquifer Protection Section of the Division of Water Quality (Division) acknowledges receipt of your permit
application and supporting materials on April 30, 2008. This application package has been assigned the number
listed above and will be reviewed by David Goodrich.
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 be aware that the Division's Regional Office, copied below, must provide recommendations prior to final
action by the Division. Please also 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 David Goodrich at 919-715-6162, or via e-mail at
[e-mail]. If the reviewer is unavailable, you may leave a message, and they will respond
promptly. Also note that the Division has reorganized. To review our new organizational chart, go to
http://h2o.'enr.state.nc.us/documents/dwq orgchart.pdf.
PLEASE REFER TO THE ABOVE APPLICATION NUMBER WHEN MAKING INQUIRIES ON THIS
PROJECT.
Sincerely, g�
for Kim H. Colson, PE
Supervisor
cc: Ashe`vi'1Te Regional Office, Aquifer Protection Section
Perm`if Application File WQ0000331
Aquifer Protection Section 1636 Mail Service Center
Internet: www.ncwaterguality.org Location: 2728 Capital Boulevard
An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer— 50% Recycled/10% Post Consumer Paper
Noi thCarolina
Naturally
Raleigh, NC 27699-1636 Telephone: [phone]
Raleigh, NC 27604 Fax 1: [phone]
Fax 2: [phone]
Customer Service: [phone]

State of North Carolina
Department of Environment,
Health and Natural Resources
Division of Water Quality
James B. Hunt, Jr., Governor
Jonathan B. Howes, Secretary
A. Preston Howard, Jr., P.E., Director
Mr. Richard Johnson,
Blue Ridge Gemstone
Post Office Box 327
Little Switzerland,
Dear Mr. Johnson:
WATER QUALITY SECTION
October 10, 1997
Owner
Mine
North Carolina 28749
�� �' � ;�,�• Wit. �:;
Subject: Compliance Inspection
Emerald Village, Inc.
Wastewater Recycle System
State Permit Number WQ0000331
®M�tEchell County.
An inspection of the wastewater treatment facility serving Blue
Ridge Gemstone Mine was conducted on August 27, 1997. The inspection
found the facility to be operating properly with no discharge to
surface waters.
If you have questions, please call me at 704/251-6208.
Sincerely,
� �/': /' /' -/-: F, 6 � ;�
Michael R. Parker
Environmental Chemist
P.O. Box 29535,N��y� FAX [phone]
Raleigh, North Carolina 27626-0535 �� An Equal FAX
Action Employer
Telephone [phone] MrMM 50% recycles/ 10% post -consumer paper

State of North Carolina
Department of Environment,
Health and Natural Resources
Division of Water Quality'
James B. Hunt, Jr., Governor
Jonathan B. Howes, Secretary
A. Preston Howard, Jr., P.E., Director
May 28, 1997
Mr. Richard A. Johnson
Post Office Box 327
Little Switzerland, North Carolina 28749
Dear Permittee: -
/••
Y)
WOOL
1C) E._11' ­7N"'
Subject:
PERMIT NO. WQ0000331
Blue Ridge Gemstone Mine
Recycle Facilities
Mitchell County
Our files indicate that the subject permit issued on 03/31/93 expires on 02/28/98. We have not
received a request for renewal from you as of this date.
A renewal request shall consist.,of a letter asking for permit renewal, the appropriate permit
application processing fee, and four (4) copies of a completed application. For permitted facilities with
treatment works, a narrative description of the residuals management plan, which is in effect at the
permitted facility, must also be submitted with the renewal application. Applications may be returned to the
applicant if not accompanied by the processing fee or are incomplete.
Please find attached a copy of the processing fee schedule, as found in 15 NCAC 2H .0205(c).
The processing fee for your facility is based on the type of facility and/or the permitted flow. Processing
fees for land application of residuals are based on the total acres of land permitted. The processing fee does
not apply to any farmer who submits an application which pertains to his/her farming operation. The check
or money order should be made payable to the North Carolina Department of Environment, Health, and
Natural Resources (DEHNR).
The Environmental Management Commission adopted rules on October 1, 1990, requiring the
payment of an annual fee for most permitted facilities. You will be billed separately for that fee (if
applicable) after your permit is approved.
Please be advised that this permit must not be allowed to expire. You must submit the renewal
request at least 180 days prior to the permit's expiration date, as required by the 15 NCAC.2H .0211.
Renewal requests received less than 180 days prior to permit expiration will be required to pay the full
NEW APPLICATIONS/ MODIFICATION/ LATE RENEWALS fee rather than the reduced TIMELY
RENEWALS WITHOUT MODIFICATIONS fee. Failure to request a renewal at least 180 days prior to
the permit expiration date and/or operation of a facility without a valid permit may result in the assessment
of civil penalties. NCGS 143-215.6 allows for the assessment of Civil penalties up to $10,000 per
violation per day.
P.O. Box 29535, .Raleigh, North Carolina 27626-0535 Telephone [phone] FAX [phone]
An Equal Opportunity Affirmative Action Employer 50% recycled/ 10% post -consumer paper

The letter requesting renewal, along with the completed Non -discharge Permit Application and the
appropriate processing fee, must be sent to:
Permits and Engineering Unit
Division of Water Quality
P. O. Box 29535
Raleigh, North Carolina 27626-0535
If you have any questions concerning this matter, please contact Mr. John Seymour at 919/ 733-
5083 extension 546.
Sincerely,
fYKim H. son, P.E., Supervisor
,�- State Engineering Review Group
cc: Asheville Regional Office
Permits and Engineering Unit
Central Files