§ 77.596. Covering coal and acid-forming and toxic-forming materials.
In applicable areas, unless otherwise approved by the Department, exposed coal seams, acid-forming material, toxic-forming materials and combustible materials other than coal refuse shall be handled as follows:
(1) The material shall be buried at least 10 feet above the groundwater table and placed at a minimum of 5 feet above the pit floor. A layer of the material may not exceed 24 inches and shall be compacted. A top layer of nontoxic spoil—minimum thickness of 4 feet—shall be compacted over the material.
(2) If necessary, the materials shall be treated to prevent water pollution and combustion and minimize adverse effects on plant growth and land uses.
(3) If it is necessary to protect against upward migration of salts, exposure by erosion, formation of acid or toxic seeps, to provide an adequate depth for plant growth or otherwise to meet local conditions, the Department will specify thicker amounts of cover using nontoxic material, or special compaction and isolation from groundwater contact.
Source The provisions of this § 77.596 adopted March 16, 1990, effective March 17, 1990, 20 Pa.B. 1643.
Cross References This section cited in 25 Pa. Code § 77.456 (relating to reclamation information); 25 Pa. Code § 77.529 (relating to acid-forming and toxic-forming spoil); and 25 Pa. Code § 77.595 (relating to concurrent reclamation).
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