HomeMy WebLinkAbout3.02 SWMP Plan
Article 4-203.E.16
Stormwater Management
Permit and Plan
Ursa Operating Company LLC
Speakman A Injection Well
OA Project No. 013-3151
Colorado Dcparunent
of Public Health
and Environment
CERTIFICATION TO DISCHARGE
UNDER
COPS GENERAL PERMIT COR-0300000
STORMWATER ASSOCIATED WITH CONSTRUCTION ACTIVITIES
Certification Number: COR03KS66
This Certification to Discharge specifically authorizes:
Ursa Operating Co LLC
to discharge stormwater from the facility identified as
Battlement Mesa Well Field
To the waters of the State of Colorado, including, but not limited to:
Facility Industrial Activity :
Facility Located at:
Battlement Creek and Dry Creek -Colorado River
Oil and Gas Production and/or Exploration,
I 70 and Battlement Pkwy, Battlement Mesa
Garfield County, CO 81636
Latitude 39.443, Longitude -108.009
Certification is effective: 5/21/2013 Certification Expires: 6/30/2012
ADMINISTRATIVELY CONTINUED
This certification under the permit requires that specific actions be performed at designated times. The
certification holder is legally obligated to comply with all terms and conditions of the permit.
Signed,
,. .
/ -. ·,-
// " ,
Nathan Moore
Construction/MS4/Pretreatment Unit Manager
Water Quality Control Division
Page 1of22
STATE OF COLOMDO
John W. Hickenlooper, Governor
Christopher E. Urbina, MO, MPH
Executive Director and Chief Medical OHicer
Dedicated to protecting and Improving the health and environment of the people of Colorado
4300 Cherry Creek Or. S. Laboratory Services Division
Denver, Colorado 80246-1530 8100 Lowry Blvd.
Phone (303) 692-2000 Denver, Colorado 80230-6928
Located in Glendale, Colorado (303) 692-3090
http://www.cdphe .state .co .us
Colorado Depanment
of Public Health
and Environment
5/21/2013
Robert W Bleil, Reg and Env Mgr
Ursa Operating Co LLC
1050 17 St Ste 2400
Denver, CO 80202
RE: Certification, Colorado Discharge Permit System
Permit No., COR030000, Certification Number: COR03K566
Dear Mr./Ms. Bleil;
The Water Quality Control Division (the Division) has reviewed the application submitted for the Battlement Mesa Well Field facility and determined
that it qualifies for coverage under the CDPS General Permit for Stormwater Discharges Associated with Construction Activities (the permit). Enclosed
please find a copy of the permit certification, which was issued under the Colorado Water Quality Control Act.
Facility: Battlement Mesa Well Field Garfield County
Construction Activities: Oil and Gas Production and/or Exploration,
Legal Contact (receives a/I legal documentation pertaining to the permit certification):
Robert W Bleil, Reg and Env Mgr Phone number: 970-625-9922
Ursa Operating Co LLC Email: rbleil@ursaresources.com
1050 17 St Ste 2400
Denver, CO 80202
Facility Contact (contacted for general inquiries regarding the facility):
Robert W Bleil, Reg and Env Mgr
Billing Contact (receives the invoice pertaining to the permit certification):
Robert W Bleil, Reg and Env Mgr
Ursa Operating Co LLC
1050 17 St Ste 2400
Denver, CO 80202
Phone number: 970-625-9922
Email: rbleil@ursaresources.com
Phone number: 970-625-9922
Email: rbleil@ursaresources.com
Any changes to the contacts listed above must be provided to the Division on a Change of Contact form. This form is available on the Division's website
at coloradowaterpermits.com.
The Annual Fee for this certification is $245.00, and is invoiced every July. Do Not Pay This Now. The initial prorated invoice will be sent to the legal
contact shortly.
The Division is currently developing a new permit and associated certification for the above permitted facility. The development and review
procedures required by law have not yet been completed. The Construction Stormwater General Permit, which will expire June 30, 2012, will be
administratively continued and will remain in effect under Section 104(7) of the Administrative Procedures Act, C.R.S. 1973, 24-4-101, et seq (1982
repl. vol. 10) until a new permit/certification is issued and effective. The renewal for this facility will be based on the application that was received
5/14/2013.
Please read the enclosed permit and certification. If you have any questions please contact Kathleen Resow, Environmental Protection Specialist, at
(303) 692-3521.
Sincerely,
Karen Harford, Administrative Assistant II
WATER QUALITY CONTROL DIVISION
Enclosures: Certification page; General Permit; Highlight Sheet; Termination form
xc: Permit File /keh cert
U.S. Operations
1050 17th Street, Suite 2400
Denver, CO 80265
(720) 580-8350
Storm Water Management
Field Wide Plan
Battlement Mesa
Garfield County, Colorado
May / 2013 - Rev # 0
Table of Contents
1.0 INTRODUCTION .............................................................................................................................................. 1
1.1 STORM WATER RUNOFF PERMITTING REQUIREMENTS ........................................................................................................ 1
1.2 PROJECT DESCRIPTION AND BACKGROUND .......................................................................................................................... 2
1.3 PROJECT OWNER AND OPERATOR ........................................................................................................................................ 2
2.0 CONSTRUCTION SITE LOCATION DESCRIPTION ................................................................................... 3
2.1 SITE LOCATION ..................................................................................................................................................................... 3
2.2 SCHEDULE OF CONSTRUCTION ACTIVITIES ........................................................................................................................... 3
2.3 RUNOFF CHARACTERISTICS .................................................................................................................................................. 4
2.4 RECEIVING WATERS .............................................................................................................................................................. 6
2.5 NATIVE VEGETATION ............................................................................................................................................................ 6
3.0 POTENTIAL POLLUTION SOURCES ............................................................................................................. 7
4.0 DESCRIPTION OF SOIL CONTROL MEASURES ........................................................................................ 8
4.1 STRUCTURAL PRACTICES FOR EROSION AND SEDIMENT CONTROL ...................................................................................... 8
4.1.1 Straw Bale and Rock Check Dams ................................................................................................................................ 8
4.1.2 Straw Wattles/Straw Rolls ............................................................................................................................................. 8
4.1.3 Diversion Berm/Channel ............................................................................................................................................... 8
4.1.4 Culvert Inlet/Outlet Protection ...................................................................................................................................... 9
4.1.5 Sediment Basins ............................................................................................................................................................. 9
4.1.6 Armored Rundowns ....................................................................................................................................................... 9
4.1.7 Straw Bale Barriers ....................................................................................................................................................... 9
4.1.8 Water Bars .................................................................................................................................................................... 9
4.1.9 Tracking Pads ............................................................................................................................................................... 9
4.2 NON-STRUCTURAL PRACTICES FOR EROSION AND SEDIMENT CONTROL ................................................................................. 10
4.2.1 Vegetative Buffers ....................................................................................................................................................... 10
4.2.2 Seeding of Disturbed Areas ......................................................................................................................................... 10
4.2.3 Mulching ..................................................................................................................................................................... 10
4.2.4 Surface Roughening .................................................................................................................................................... 10
5.0 PHASED BMP IMPLEMENTATION .............................................................................................................. 11
5.1 CONSTRUCTION ................................................................................................................................................................... 11
5.2 INTERIM RECLAMATION ...................................................................................................................................................... 11
5.3 FINAL STABILIZATION ......................................................................................................................................................... 12
6.0 MATERIALS HANDLING AND SPILL PREVENTION ............................................................................... 13
6.1 WASTE MANAGEMENT AND DISPOSAL ................................................................................................................................ 13
6.2 Fuels and Materials Management .................................................................................................................................. 13
6.3 Construction Site Housekeeping ..................................................................................................................................... 15
7.0 DEDICATED CONCRETE OR ASPHALT BATCH PLANTS ..................................................................... 16
8.0 VEHICLE TRACKING CONTROLS ............................................................................................................... 17
9.0 INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE PROCEDURES ................................................................................. 18
10.0 NON-STORMWATER DISCHARGES .......................................................................................................... 20
11.0 CERTIFICATIONS .......................................................................................................................................... 21
11.1 OWNER/APPLICANT CERTIFICATION ................................................................................................................................ 21
11.2 STORM WATER MANAGEMENT PLAN ADMINISTRATOR ................................................................................................... 22
12.0 ADDITIONAL BMP REFERENCES .............................................................................................................. 23
LIST OF APPENDICES
Appendix A Site Maps
Appendix B Storm Water Permit
Appendix C Storm Water Inspection Form
Appendix D BMP Descriptions and Installation Details
Appendix E Project Seed Mixes
Appendix F Site Specific Decriptions
Table 1 SWMP Revisions
1 May 2013
1.0 INTRODUCTION
This Storm Water Management Plan (SWMP) is written to comply with the Colorado
Department of Public Health and Environment’s (CDPHE) General Permit No. COR-
030000 issued on May 31, 2007 and has been administratively continued effective of July
1, 2012, and related U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) National Pollutant
Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) storm water regulations. This larger common
plan of development SWMP addresses construction activities associated with
development of natural gas resources in the Battlement Mesa in Garfield County,
Colorado. The Battlement Mesa SWMP is intended to be periodically updated as needed
to address planned developments, new disturbances, and other changes needed to manage
storm water and protect surface water quality. This SWMP will be updated in accordance
with Parts I.D.5.c, d of the permit.
This SWMP is in two parts: (1) the field-wide SWMP for Ursa activities within the
Battlement Mesa project area; and (2) additional, dynamic, information (including
inspection forms) for well pads, compressor stations, and roads. The field-wide SWMP
includes a general area description, area boundary map, descriptions of Best Management
Practices (BMPs), description of materials handling and spill prevention, inspection,
maintenance procedures, and definition of final stabilization. Site-specific tables within
this field-wide SWMP Appendices address individual ground-disturbing activities. The
site-specific information found in Table 3 contains information such as facility location,
construction limits, BMP locations and detailed current site conditions. Additional
information on Ursa’s specifics of administrative operations is provided in the
appendices.
This SWMP will need to be updated/revised during the life of the project. Updates will
include:
1. Revision of existing BMPs as needed to address erosion and sediment control.
2. Deletion of BMPs and reduction in monitoring frequency for individual facility
locations where interim and long-term stabilization have been successfully
established.
3. Regulation updates, Table and Appendix revisions.
This SWMP will have a separate revision log sheet; this log sheet will have dates that the
SWMP was modified as applicable, refer to Table 2.
This SWMP is written to contain general storm water management practices, as well as
site specific information related to specific construction activities occurring in the
Battlement Mesa field area. Site specific information found in Table 1 includes phased
BMP implementation, areas of disturbance, schedule of construction activities, final
stabilization measures, current BMPs, and potential pollution sources.
1.1 Storm Water Runoff Permitting Requirements
The Federal Clean Water Act [Section 402(p)] requires that discharges of pollutants to
waters of the United States from any point source be regulated by NPDES permits. In
November 1990, the USEPA published final regulations that established application
requirements for storm water associated with construction activity for soil disturbances of
2 May 2013
5 acres or more be regulated as an industrial activity and covered by an NPDES permit.
In December 1999, the USEPA published final Phase II NPDES regulations that
established application requirements for storm water associated with construction activity
for soil disturbances to be regulated as an industrial activity and covered by an NPDES
permit. These regulations became effective July 1, 2002.
Storm water construction permits are required for oil and gas activities that disturb 1 or
more acres during the life of the project, or are part of a larger common plan of
development. CDPHE considers a common plan of oil and gas development to mean
development of several well pads and/or related infrastructure in a contiguous area either
during the same time period or under a consistent plan for long-term development.
1.2 Project Description and Background
Within the Battlement Mesa project area, Ursa Operating Company, LLC (Ursa) is
charged with construction, operation, and maintenance of access roads, well pads, and
gas gathering pipelines and facilities. Ursa is responsible for implementing storm water
management as it pertains to their respective operations within the Battlement Mesa
project area. This SWMP is developed, maintained, and implemented to suit the needs of
each construction activity within the Battlement Mesa project area.
The Battlement Mesa natural gas wells and associated infrastructure will be located
within Township 7 South, Range 95 West, of the 6th P.M. Construction activities will
include clearing/maintenance of drilling pads, clearing/maintenance of natural gas
facilities (compressor stations), construction/maintenance of access roads, and the
eventual construction of natural gas flow and gathering pipelines. The area of
disturbance including the natural gas well pads, the access roads and gathering system
pipeline will be greater than one acre.
Currently there are actively producing wells and natural gas facilities within the
Battlement Mesa project area. Refer to Table 1 for information regarding existing
facilities, proposed facilities, and facilities under construction. New disturbances will
occur as additional access roads and well pads are constructed and/or maintained.
1.3 Project Owner and Operator
The Project owner/operator:
Ursa Operating Company, LLC
1050 17th Street, Suite 2400
Denver, CO 80265
Contact for the project is:
• Robert W. Bleil, Regulatory & Environmental Manager/ SWMP Administrator
Main: 970.625.9922
E-mail: rbleil@ursaresources.com
Ursa will be in charge of all aspects of this project. Contractor(s) will do the actual
construction and grading, but all work will be supervised by Ursa or a representative(s),
and all decisions will be made by Ursa, or a representative(s).
3 May 2013
2.0 CONSTRUCTION SITE LOCATION DESCRIPTION
2.1 Site Location
The Battlement Mesa natural gas wells and associated infrastructure will be located
within Township 7 South, Range 95 West, of the 6th P.M. Once the natural gas wells are
completed and brought into production it will be necessary to construct flow lines,
gathering system pipelines and tank batteries to handle liquid storage, and construct
access roads to the individual well sites and pipelines access points.
The Battlement Mesa natural gas wells will be constructed using conventional cut and fill
earthmoving techniques. Typically, the working pad surface will have dimensions of
approximately 350’ x 250’. There will be a 50’ buffer area around the pad surface to
implement storm water BMPs. Specific pad dimensions may vary depending on the
planned drill rig, number of wells to be drilled from each pad, and local conditions.
After all well pads have been constructed and all production facilities have been installed,
the well pad will be graded to reduce cut and fill slopes and to minimize the overall size
of the pad. The well pad will be revegetated after grading activities have been
completed. This “interim reclamation” phase will exist until 70% stabilization (including
revegetation, compacted road surfaces, etc.) has been reached, after which “final
stabilization” will be declared. “Final stabilization” will require the 70% stabilization
and the removal of any temporary BMPs. The well pad will remain in the “final
stabilization” phase of the long-term production configuration for as much as 30 years or
more (typically, until the well’s production declines to sub-economic levels). After a well
has been plugged and abandoned and surface facilities removed, the well pad will be
graded to restore approximate pre-disturbance contours and will be revegetated.
In areas that are disturbed by well pad construction, topsoil will be stripped and
stockpiled near the site. Topsoil stockpiles will be seeded as soon as practicable to
preserve the topsoil resource. Soil materials will be managed so that erosion and
sediment transport are minimized.
Site Maps
Refer to Appendix A for maps showing locations of well pads, access roads, pipelines
and their associated storm water BMPs.
Maps will be generated for each applicable well pad showing construction site
boundaries, ground disturbance areas, cut and fill areas, all storage areas, all structural
and non-structural BMPs, and all potential pollution sources.
2.2 Schedule of Construction Activities
Construction schedules will vary. Minor road maintenance will occur on an “as needed”
basis. Refer to Table 1 for information regarding site specific construction and
maintenance activities for well pads and access roads.
Once an approved drilling permit application has been received from the Colorado Oil &
Gas Conservation Commission (COGCC), clearing and grading activities will be
performed at the well pad sites. The clearing and grading will be performed during
4 May 2013
daylight hours to prepare the site prior to drilling. Temporary storm water BMPs will be
implemented prior to well pad construction.
Once stabilization is achieved, defined as construction activities being complete and all
disturbed areas have been either built on, paved, or a uniform vegetative cover
established with a density of at least 70 percent of pre-disturbance levels, or equivalent
permanent, physical erosion reduction methods have been employed a well pad may be
removed from this SWMP.
However, if petroleum hydrocarbons or other chemicals impact storm water as a result of
industrial activities onsite, the impacted storm water will be addressed by following the
Ursa spill prevention control and countermeasures (SPCC) plan.
2.3 Runoff Characteristics
Runoff characteristics are based on site topography, soil type, and soil/vegetative cover.
According to the Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS), the project area of
Battlement Mesa consists of the following soils:
• Arvada loam, (6-20%): This deep, well drained, sloping soil is on fans and high
terraces. Elevation ranges from 5,100 to 6,200 feet. Average annual precipitation
is 12 inches. Average annual air temperature is about 48 degrees F and the
average frost free period is 120 days. Permeability is very slow and available
water capacity is high. The effective rooting depth is 60 inches or more. Runoff is
moderately rapid and the hazard of water erosion is severe.
• Bucklon-Inchau loams, (25-50%): These moderately sloping to very steep soils
are on ridges and mountainsides. Elevation ranges from 7,000 to 9,500 feet. The
average annual precipitation is about 18 inches, the average annual air
temperature is about 40 degrees F, and the average frost-free period is less than 75
days. The Bucklon soil is shallow and well drained. Permeability of the Bucklon
soil is slow and available water capacity is very low. The effective rooting depth
is 10 to 20 inches. Runoff is medium and the hazard of water erosion is severe.
The Inchau soil is moderately deep and well drained. Permeability of the Inchau
soil is moderate and available water capacity is moderate. The effective rooting
depth is 20 to 40 inches. Runoff is medium and the hazard of water erosion is
severe.
• Ildefonso stony loam, (6-25%): This deep, well drained, moderately sloping to
hilly soil is on mesas, benches, and sides of valleys. Elevation ranges from 5,000
to 6,500 feet. The average annual precipitation is about 14 inches, the average
annual air temperature is about 46 degrees F, and the average frost-free period is
125 days. Permeability is moderately rapid and available water capacity is low.
The effective rooting depth is 60 inches or more. Runoff is medium and the
hazard of water erosion is moderate.
• Idefonso stony loam, (25-45%): This deep, well drained, hilly to steep soil is on
mesa breaks, sides of valleys, and alluvial fans. Elevation ranges from 5,000 to
6,500 feet. The average annual precipitation is about 14 inches, the average
annual air temperature is about 46 degrees F, and the average frost-free period is
5 May 2013
125 days. Permeability is moderately rapid and available water capacity is low.
The effective rooting depth is 60 inches or more. Runoff is medium and the
hazard of water erosion is moderate.
• Morval loam, (3-12%): This deep, well drained, gently sloping to rolling soil is
on mesas and sides of valleys. Elevation ranges from 6,500 to 8,000 feet. The
average annual precipitation is about 15 inches, the average annual air
temperature is about 44 degrees F, and the average frost-free period is 100 days.
Permeability is moderate and available water capacity is moderate. The effective
rooting depth is 60 inches or more. Runoff is slow and the hazard of water erosion
is slight.
• Morval-Tridell complex, (6-25%): These moderately sloping to hilly soils are
on alluvial fans and sides of mesas. Elevation ranges from 6,500 to 8,000 feet.
The average annual precipitation is about 15 inches, the average annual air
temperature is about 44 degrees F, and the average frost-free period is 100 days.
The Morval soil is deep and well drained. Permeability of the Morval soil is
moderate and available water capacity is moderate. The effective rooting depth is
60 inches or more. Runoff is slow and the hazard of water erosion is slight. The
Tridell soil is deep and well drained. Permeability of the Tridell soil is moderately
rapid and available water capacity is low. The effective rooting depth is 60 inches
or more. Runoff is medium and the hazard of water erosion is moderate.
• Nihill channery loam, (1-6%): This deep, well drained, nearly level to gently
sloping soil is on alluvial fans and sides of valleys. Elevation ranges from 5,000 to
6,500 feet. The average annual precipitation is about 13 inches, the average
annual air temperature is about 48 degrees F, and the average frost-free period is
125 days. Permeability is moderately rapid and available water capacity is low.
The effective rooting depth is 60 inches or more. Runoff is slow and the hazard of
water erosion is moderate.
• Potts loam, (3-6%): This deep, well drained, moderately sloping soil is on mesas,
benches, and sides of valleys. Elevation ranges from 5,000 to 7,000 feet. The
average annual precipitation is about 14 inches, the average annual air
temperature is about 46 degrees F, and the average frost-free period is 120 days.
Permeability is moderate and available water capacity is high. The effective
rooting depth is 60 inches or more. Runoff is slow and the hazard of water erosion
is moderate.
• Potts loam, (6-12%): This deep, well drained, moderately sloping to rolling soil
is on mesas, benches, and sides of valleys. Elevation ranges from 5,000 to 7,000
feet. The average annual precipitation is about 14 inches, the average annual air
temperature is about 46 degrees F, and the average frost-free period is 120 days.
Permeability is moderate and available water capacity is high. The effective
rooting depth is 60 inches or more. Runoff is medium and the hazard of water
erosion is severe.
• Potts-Ildefonso complex, (12-25%): These strongly sloping to hilly soils are on
mesas, alluvial fans, and sides of valleys. Elevation ranges from 5,000 to 6,500
6 May 2013
feet. The average annual precipitation is about 14 inches, the average annual air
temperature is about 46 degrees F, and the average frost-free period is 120 days.
The Potts soil is deep and well drained. Permeability of the Potts soil is moderate
and available water capacity is high. The effective rooting depth is 60 inches or
more. Runoff is medium and the hazard of water erosion is moderate. The
Ildefonso soil is deep and well drained. Permeability is moderately rapid and
available water capacity is low. The effective rooting depth is 60 inches or more.
Runoff is medium and the hazard of water erosion is moderate.
• Torriorthents-Camborthids-Rock outcrop complex, (steep): This broadly
defined unit consists of exposed sandstone and shale bedrock, loose stones, and
soils that are shallow to deep. Torriorthents are shallow to moderately deep.
Camborthids are shallow to deep. The Rock outcrop is mainly Mesa Verde
sandstone and Wasatch shale. Elevation ranges from 5,000 to 8,500 feet. The
average annual precipitation is about 10 to 15 inches, the average annual air
temperature is 39 to 46 degrees F, and the average frost-free period is 80 to 105
days.
• Torriorthents-Rock outcrop complex, (steep): This broadly defined unit
consists of exposed sandstone and shale bedrock, and stony soils that are shallow
to moderately deep. Torriorthents are shallow to moderately deep. The Rock
outcrop is mainly Mesa Verde sandstone and Wasatch shale. Elevation ranges
from 5,000 to 8,500 feet. The average annual precipitation is about 10 to 15
inches, the average annual air temperature is 39 to 46 degrees F, and the average
frost-free period is 80 to 105 days.
• Wann sandy loam, (1-3%): This deep, somewhat poorly drained, nearly level to
gently sloping, low-lying soil is on terraces and bottom land in valleys. Elevation
ranges from 5,000 to 6,500 feet. The average annual precipitation is about 12
inches, the average annual air temperature is about 48 degrees F, and the average
frost-free period is 120 days. Permeability is moderately rapid and available water
capacity is high. The effective rooting depth varies with the level of the water
table but is about 2 feet. Runoff is slow and the hazard of water erosion is
moderate.
2.4 Receiving Waters
Receiving waters include Battlement Creek, Dry Creek, and many unnamed tributaries.
The ultimate receiving water is the Colorado River. Refer to Appendix A for the Site
Maps and distances to live waters.
2.5 Native Vegetation
Native vegetation consists of wheatgrass, needleandthread, Pinyon, Utah Juniper,
Bitterbrush, Shadescale, Saltbush, Greasewood, Rabbitbrush, Yucca, Galleta grass, a
variety of Astragalus and Sagebrush. Vegetative cover varies from 40% to 100%
depending on site specificity.
7 May 2013
3.0 POTENTIAL POLLUTION SOURCES
Potential pollution sources associated with construction sites and natural gas development
include:
• Sediment resulting from erosion of soil stockpiles and other areas cleared of
vegetation;
• Leakage of fuels and lubricants from equipment and spills from fueling;
• Trash and debris from clearing activities, construction materials, and workers;
• Sanitary sewage associated with portable toilets;
• Well completion fluids;
• Drill cuttings and drilling fluids;
• Produced water; and
• Condensate.
The most common source of pollution from construction activities is sediment, which can
be carried away from the work site with storm water runoff, and ultimately impact the
water quality of a receiving stream. Clearing, grading, and otherwise altering previously
undisturbed land can increase the rate of soil erosion over pre-disturbance rates.
Petroleum products can also be potential storm water pollutants. These products are used
in construction activities to power or lubricate equipment and include: fuel, gear oil,
hydraulic oil, brake fluid, and grease.
Debris from lay-down areas, residue from equipment cleaning and maintenance, and
solid waste generated from land clearing operations and human activity (trees, brush,
paper, trash, etc.) present other potential pollution sources within the construction site.
For site specific potential pollution sources, refer to Table 1. Maps of each well pad will
be generated showing the locations of all potential pollution sources.
No concrete washout activities are expected.
Vehicle tracking pads may be required for well pad development within the Battlement
Mesa.
All BMPs implemented throughout the project are intended to mitigate for the release of
sediment and all other potential pollution sources described above, and listed in Table 1.
Ursa Operating Company spill prevention and response policies must be followed and
include the following:
• Notification procedures to be used in the event of a material release or accident.
At a minimum, the production supervisor should be notified. Depending on the
nature of the spill and the material involved, Ursa Environmental staff, the
CDPHE, downstream water users, or other agencies may also need to be notified.
The WQCD toll-free 24-hour environmental emergency spill reporting line is
(877)518-5608.
• Provisions for absorbents are to be made available for use in fuel areas.
8 May 2013
4.0 DESCRIPTION OF SOIL CONTROL MEASURES
The objective of erosion sediment controls is to minimize the release of sediments and
any other potential pollutants by storm water runoff. This can be accomplished through
the use of structural and/or nonstructural controls. This section describes erosion and
sediment controls to be used during the ROW construction to minimize possible pollutant
impacts to storm water runoff.
Refer to Appendix D for implementation details of soil control measures.
Refer to Appendix A for locations of soil control measures.
4.1 Structural Practices for Erosion and Sediment Control
Structural practices implemented to provide erosion and sediment control can include
temporary and permanent BMPs. Temporary structural BMPs include, but are not limited
to, straw bale barriers/check dams, temporary water bars and straw fiber rolls/wattles.
When applicable, temporary BMPs will be implemented during construction and interim
reclamation phases. All temporary BMPs will be removed and disposed of upon final
stabilization. Permanent structural BMPs include, but are not limited to; earthen berms,
drainage dips, bar ditches, diversion ditches, sediment basins, culvert inlet/outlet
protection, and rock check dams.
4.1.1 Straw Bale and Rock Check Dams
Straw bale and rock check dams will be installed in areas of concentrated flow. The
purpose of a check dam is to reduce the velocity of water enough to allow sediment to
settle, while allowing the clean water to continue migrating. Some sediment will
accumulate behind the check dam. Sediment should be removed from behind the check
dams when it has accumulated to one-half of the original height of the dam and properly
disposed of. Check dams will be inspected for erosion along the edges of the check dams
and repaired as required immediately.
4.1.2 Straw Wattles/Straw Rolls
Straw rolls/wattles are intended to capture and keep sediment on a disturbed slope. Straw
rolls are useful to temporarily stabilize slopes by reducing soil creep and sheet and rill
erosion until permanent vegetation can be established. Straw rolls will last an average of
one (1) to two (2) years. The slope needs to be prepared before the rolls are placed. Small
trenches are created across the slope on the horizontal contour. The trench should be deep
enough to accommodate half the thickness of the roll. The trenches need to be 10 to 25
feet apart. The rolls need to be installed perpendicular to water movement, parallel to the
slope contour. The rolls need to fit snugly against the soil. No gaps should be between the
soil and roll. There should only be one (1) to two (2) inches of stake exposed above the
roll. The stakes should be installed every four (4) feet.
4.1.3 Diversion Berm/Channel
Diversion ditches can be a temporary or permanent structural BMP installed to direct
runoff or run-on storm water away from construction activity. Ditches direct water into
9 May 2013
sediment basin or other BMP structure designed to capture sediment while allow water to
move through.
4.1.4 Culvert Inlet/Outlet Protection
Inlets and outlets of culverts will be protected to prevent sediment build up within the
culvert, thus maintaining culvert functionality. Temporary protection during construction
can be implemented by installing straw bales or straw wattles around the inlet/outlet. For
permanent protection, inlets/outlets shall be protected via rock armoring. Sediment
accumulated at the inlet/outlet shall be removed as needed to ensure that there will be no
blockage of the culvert.
4.1.5 Sediment Basins
Sediment basins are structural BMPs installed to trap sediment that has been transported
from other BMPs including, but not limited to, berms, perimeter diversion ditches, bar
ditches, and drainage dips. Size and shape of each sediment basin shall depend on the
specific location and surrounding topography of each site.
4.1.6 Armored Rundowns
Armored rundowns are structural BMPs installed to minimize the erosion potential of the
underlying substrate. Installation of armored rundowns can include, but is not limited to,
inlet and outlet protection associated with sediment basins and ditches (i.e., sediment,
diversion).
4.1.7 Straw Bale Barriers
A straw bale barrier is a series of entrenched straw bales that are used to intercept and
direct sheet flows. The barrier reduces runoff velocity and filters sediment from storm
water as it moves through the barrier. The barrier may also be used to protect against
erosion.
4.1.8 Water Bars
Water bars can be a temporary or permanent structural BMP installed to direct runoff or
run-on storm water away from construction activity. Bars slow velocity of water, and
direct water into a sediment basin, or other BMP structure designed to capture sediment
while allowing water to move through.
4.1.9 Tracking Pads
Tracking pads are structural BMPs installed to trap sediment onsite prior to the respective
vehicle leaving the location. Size and shape of the respective tracking pad(s) shall depend
on the specific locations and surrounding topography of each site.
10 May 2013
4.2 Non-Structural Practices for Erosion and Sediment Control
Non-structural practices implemented for erosion and sediment control will consist of
permanent BMPs that will be utilized during all project phases from construction to
interim reclamation, and ultimately to final stabilization. Non-structural controls typically
include, but are not limited to, vegetative buffers, mulching, seeding of disturbed areas,
erosion control blankets, and surface roughening.
4.2.1 Vegetative Buffers
Vegetative buffers are areas of existing vegetation stands that are utilized as a permanent
BMP. Vegetative buffers are located on any or all edges of a project boundary. They
provide a filtering effect by minimizing velocity of storm water runoff enough to allow
sediment to settle out while allowing clean water to continue with its natural drainage
route.
4.2.2 Seeding of Disturbed Areas
Seeding of disturbed areas will be implemented as a measure taken to achieve final
stabilization. Upon construction completion, all disturbed areas to undergo reclamation
shall be seeded. As a disturbed area is seeded, it will remain in the interim reclamation
phase until the site has reached a vegetative cover area of 70% of pre-disturbance
conditions. At this point, the site will be at the final stabilization phase. The main
objective of drill seeding is to place the seed in the soil at the depth most favorable for
seed germination. Topography will determine if seed will be applied via a drill seeder or
if there is a need for broadcasting. Hand broadcasting is commonly used in areas too
small for large equipment or if the terrain is too steep for equipment to work safely.
Broadcast seeding throws the seeds randomly on the soil surface. This allows for a more
mosaic plant population, but must be applied at twice the drill seed rate for successful
germination. Once seed has been broadcast, raking or chaining the area will ensure seed
to soil contact. Refer to Appendix E for the Project seed mixes and associated application
rates.
4.2.3 Mulching
Mulching is a non-structural BMP implemented to aid in seed establishment. After a
disturbed area has been seeded, certified weed free straw mulch will be applied. Where
accessible, the mulch will be crimped into the ground to provide additional soil
stabilization.
4.2.4 Surface Roughening
Surface roughening is an erosion control practice often used in conjunction with grading.
Surface roughening involves increasing the relief of a bare soil surface with horizontal
grooves by either stair-stepping (running parallel to the contour of the land) or using
construction equipment to track the surface. Slopes that are not fine graded and left in a
roughened condition also reduces erosion. Soil roughening reduces runoff velocity,
increases infiltration, reduces erosion, traps sediment, and prepares the soil for seeding
and planting; giving the seed an opportunity to germinate and establish. Used as a
temporary or permanent BMP, surface roughening may take many different forms
including, but not limited to, ripping, pocking and tracking.
11 May 2013
5.0 PHASED BMP IMPLEMENTATION
During the Battlement Mesa development, each project will consist of a construction
phase, an interim reclamation phase, and a final stabilization phase. There will be some
BMPs implemented that can be utilized for each phase, however there will be certain
controls implemented specifically for each phase.
5.1 Construction
The construction phase of the project will consist of clearing the vegetation on the pad
location, cut and fill activities for each pad and access road, and general grading.
Appropriate BMPs will be installed for this phase of the construction. The following
outlines the necessary steps of the construction phase:
Well Pad(s) and Facilities
• Vegetation Clearing: Vegetation will be removed and place around edge of
disturbed area on down gradient side of fill slope. This will provide a brush
barrier BMP for construction;
• Topsoil will be utilized for berms or diversions;
• Straw bale barriers or other temporary BMPs will be installed prior to
construction; and
• Concrete and truck washout area will be established, if applicable, once
construction begins.
Pipeline(s)
• Pipelines will be installed along the road Right of Way when possible;
• Temporary BMPs will be installed prior to construction; and
• Permanent BMPs will be installed as ROW is reclaimed.
5.2 Interim Reclamation
Interim reclamation will be the phase of each project between construction and final
stabilization. A project will enter into interim reclamation when construction is
completed, disturbed areas have been seeded, and permanent BMPs have been installed.
Temporary BMPs that were implemented during the construction phase may continue to
be maintained during interim reclamation. Projects will remain in interim reclamation
until disturbed areas have been reclaimed to 70% of pre-disturbance conditions or
otherwise permanently stabilized (i.e. graveled). Refer to Table 1 for BMPs implemented
during the interim reclamation phase of each site.
Well Pad(s) and Facilities
• Topsoil will be used as material for swales or berms around the pad location;
• Topsoil stockpile will be seeded and mulched immediately; and
• Permanent BMPs will be installed, as temporary BMPs are removed if no longer a
viable BMP.
12 May 2013
Pipeline(s)
• Topsoil placement: Topsoil will be moved and redistributed across the surface of
the disturbed area;
• Vegetative material replacement/removal: Based upon BLM or landowner
requirements, stripped vegetation may be hauled off-site or redistributed along the
disturbed area;
• Seeding: When applicable the disturbed ROW will be seeded post construction.
The seed mix will vary depending on location and surface ownership and will
generally match the surrounding vegetation. Refer to Appendix E for seed mixes
and their respective application rate(s); and
• Mulching: When applicable, all disturbed areas to be reclaimed will be mulched
post seeding. A certified weed free straw will be crimped into the ROW to keep
an adequate moisture level in the seedbed.
5.3 Final Stabilization
Areas which have been disturbed are considered to be stabilized when a uniform
vegetative cover with a density of 70 percent of the pre-disturbance levels has been
established, or when an equivalent permanent, physical erosion reduction method is in
place.
Areas which are not used for facilities, access roads, material storages yards, or other
work areas will be stabilized with vegetation. Areas that are stabilized with vegetation
will be considered to have achieved final stabilization when a uniform stand of vegetation
with a density of at least 70 percent of the pre-disturbance has been established. Other
areas that may include facilities, access roads, material storage yards, and other work
areas will be stabilized through the use of permanent, physical erosion reduction methods
that include, but are not limited to:
• Surface covering – covering of the soil surface with structures that inhibit contact
of precipitation with the soil surface, which is generally considered to be
placement of a structure (building or tank) over the soil surface.
• Gravel surfacing – gravel surfacing will be applied in areas such as access roads,
materials storage yards, and other work surfaces. Some gravel may be lost due to
erosion from intense precipitation events or due to vehicle traffic. Gravel surfaces
will be periodically inspected to determine the need for gravel replacement.
Gravel surfaces will be replaced or repaired (through grading) when inspections
reveal that the gravel surface is no longer effectively covering the soil surface, or
performing its desired function.
• Surface contouring/ditching – road surfaces that will not be graveled shall be
constructed in a manner to prevent excessive erosion. Roads will be sloped in
way to encourage positive drainage into bar ditches, and ultimately into sediment
13 May 2013
control structures. A compact, earthen berm will be constructed at the uphill side
of the road slope.
6.0 MATERIALS HANDLING AND SPILL PREVENTION
6.1 Waste Management and Disposal
The various construction activities mentioned in this SWMP will generate various other
waste materials during the course of construction. These wastes typically include, but are
not limited to, the following:
• Trees and shrubs from clearing operations;
• Trash and debris from construction materials and workers; and
• Sanitary sewage.
Each of these wastes will be managed so as to not contribute to storm water pollution.
Trees and shrubs will be piled along the toe of fill slopes to provide additional sediment
control. Construction trash and debris will be collected in appropriate containers and
hauled off-site for disposal in suitable landfills. Sanitary waste will be contained in
portable toilets or other storage tanks with waste materials regularly pumped and
transported off-site for proper disposal at approved facilities.
6.2 Fuels and Materials Management
Petroleum Products
Petroleum products which may be present at the construction site include: gasoline, diesel
fuel, lubricant oils, hydraulic oils, used oils, and solvents. Gasoline and diesel fuel will be
stored in portable storage tanks with secondary containment. Lubricant, hydraulic, and
miscellaneous oils and solvents will be stored in containers up to 55-gallons in volume, in
secondary containment.
Pollutants from petroleum products used during construction activities adhere easily to
soil particles and other surfaces. In case of a spill or leak, soils contaminated with
petroleum products will be contained and removed to a proper disposal site. Erosion and
sediment control practices will aid in retention of spills or leaks. Use of secondary
containment and drip pans will reduce the likelihood of spills or leaks contacting the
ground. Proper maintenance and safe storage practices will reduce the chance of
petroleum products contaminating the site. Oily wastes such as crankcase oil, cans, rags,
and paper containing oils will be placed in proper receptacles and disposed of or
recycled. An additional source of petroleum contamination is leaks from equipment and
vehicles. Routine daily inspections will be conducted to identify leaks and initiate
corrective actions, if needed.
The following guidelines for storing petroleum products will be applied:
• All product containers will be clearly and properly labeled;
• Drums will be kept off the ground within secondary containment and stored under
cover when necessary;
14 May 2013
• Fuel tanks will be stored within areas containing secondary containment;
• Lids of drummed materials will be securely fastened;
• Emergency spill response procedures will be available on-site (Persons trained in
handling spills will be on call at all times);
• Spill cleanup and containment materials (absorbent, shovels, etc.) will be readily
available. Spills will be immediately cleaned up and contaminated materials will
be properly stored on site until they can be disposed of in accordance with
applicable regulations;
• Storage areas and containers will be regularly monitored for leaks and repaired or
replaced as necessary. Construction personnel should be informed about proper
storage and handling of materials during weekly subcontractor or safety meetings;
• Provisions for absorbents are to be made available for use in fuel areas; and
• Spill response will be immediate, contaminated soils will be contained and
disposed of in accordance with applicable regulations.
Notification procedures are to be used in the event of a material release or accident. At a
minimum, the field supervisor should be notified. Depending on the nature of the spill
and the material involved, Ursa staff, the CDPHE, downstream water users, or other
agencies may also need to be notified.
Notification Requirements:
• Ursa Facility Manager
• Project Environmental Coordinator/Regional Coordinator
• State Agency in accordance with applicable regulations
Hot Line Numbers:
• WQCD toll-free 24-hour environmental emergency spill reporting line is
(877)518-5608.
• Colorado Department of Natural Resources oil and Gas conservation commission-
oil spills 303-894-2100
• National Response Center 800-424-8802
A construction site spill report will include the following details of the incident:
• The date and time of the incident;
• A description of the material spilled;
• Quantity spilled;
• Circumstances that caused spill;
• List of water bodies affected or potentially affected by spill;
• Statement verifying whether an oil sheen is present;
• Size of the affect area;
• An estimate of depth;
• Determination of possible migration of spill off Ursa property;
• Statement of time of cleanup, methods being used, and personnel involved; and
15 May 2013
• Name of person to first observe spill, witnesses and their affiliations.
Other Chemical Product Management
Various additional materials will be used and stored on site for use in construction. These
materials will be stored appropriately and managed to minimize spills and leaks. Storage
areas will be regularly inspected, and any minor spills or leaks will be cleaned up
immediately.
Materials Management
The construction supervisor will maintain a lay-down or staging area for equipment and
materials storage on site. These areas will be maintained with good housekeeping and
will be inspected on a regular basis for spills, leaks, and potential contamination.
6.3 Construction Site Housekeeping
Housekeeping will consist of neat and orderly storage of materials and containerized
fluids. Wastes will be temporarily stored in sealed containers and regularly collected and
disposed of at appropriate off-site facilities. In the event that a spill occurs, prompt
cleanup is required to minimize any commingling of waste materials with storm water
runoff.
Routine maintenance will be limited to fueling and lubrication of equipment. Drip pans
will be used during routine fueling and maintenance to contain spills or leaks. Any waste
product from maintenance will be contained and transported off site for disposal or
recycling. There will be no major equipment overhauls conducted on site. Equipment will
be transported off site when major overhauls are necessary.
Cleanup of trash and discarded materials will be conducted at the end of each work day.
Cleanup will consist of patrolling the road way, access areas, and other work areas to
pick up trash, scrap debris, other discarded materials, along with any contaminated soil.
Upon collection, these waste materials will be disposed of properly.
16 May 2013
7.0 DEDICATED CONCRETE OR ASPHALT BATCH PLANTS
Not applicable to anticipated projects within the Battlement Mesa project area.
17 May 2013
8.0 VEHICLE TRACKING CONTROLS
Vehicle track pads will be installed at all locations where it is considered necessary.
Track pads will be approximately 20 feet wide and 20 feet long. This will eliminate
sediment transport onto public roadways.
18 May 2013
9.0 INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE PROCEDURES
To meet the requirements of the Permit, inspection and maintenance of erosion and
sediment controls must occur during the project. Continued inspection and maintenance
is required for specific structures after construction is completed. The inspection program
will include the following:
1. A certified person familiar with the SWMP and control measures will conduct the
inspections.
2. Inspections will cover the following items within the construction site:
• Disturbed areas without stabilization;
• All structural and non-structural BMPs (temporary and permanent);
• Material storage areas;
• Surface water diversions;
• Down gradient areas; and,
• New access roads;
• Site vehicle entrance/exit locations.
3. Inspections will occur at least once every 14 calendar days (during construction)
and after a significant precipitation event, or snow melt event that causes potential
for erosion. Once all measures have been taken to reach interim reclamation,
inspections shall occur at least once every 30 calendar days.
4. A log of inspections will be maintained.
5. Water quality will be visually assessed for all receiving streams and discharge
areas during each inspection.
6. Disturbed areas and material storage areas that are exposed to precipitation will be
inspected for evidence of pollutants entering nearby drainages.
7. Roads used for vehicle access will be inspected for evidence of off-site sediment
transport.
8. Following each inspection, the SWMP will be modified as necessary to include
additional controls designed to correct identified problems. Necessary revisions to
the SWMP will be made within 7 days of the inspection.
9. An inspection report summarizing the scope of the inspection, the name of the
person conducting the inspection, the date of the inspection, and observations
relating to proper implementation will be prepared. Inspection reports will be
retained for at least 3 years from the date that the site is finally stabilized.
10. Actions taken to modify any storm water control measure will be recorded and
maintained with the SWMP.
11. If no deficiencies are found during the inspection, the report will contain
certification that the site is in compliance with the SWMP.
Maintenance Procedures
Maintenance will include prompt repairs and/or adjustments to any erosion and sediment
control structures that are deteriorating or found to be performing inadequately. BMP
conditions and dates of BMP maintenance will be documented within the storm water
inspection checklists. Repairs are to be made as soon as possible and prior to the next
anticipated storm event.
19 May 2013
Inspection Forms
Inspection forms shall be a part of this SWMP and will include information such as dates
of maintenance/modifications of existing BMPs, installation of new BMPs, any site
housekeeping requirements, and general comments. Refer to Appendix C for an example
of the storm water inspection document.
20 May 2013
10.0 NON-STORMWATER DISCHARGES
No allowable sources of non-storm water discharges are anticipated from the project.
Some possible exceptions include, but are not limited to, fire prevention/suppression or
dust control activities. Produced water will be collected and hauled off site to a proper
storage facility and not discharged.
21 May 2013
11.0 CERTIFICATIONS
11.1 Owner/Applicant Certification
I certify under penalty of law that this document and all attachments were prepared under
my direction or supervision in accordance with a system designed to assure that qualified
personnel properly gather and evaluate the information submitted. Based on my inquiry
of the person(s) who manages the system, or the person(s) directly responsible for
gathering the information, I verify that the information submitted within this plan is, to
the best of my knowledge and belief, true, accurate, and complete. I am aware that there
are significant penalties for submitting false information, including the possibility of fine
and imprisonment for knowledge of violations.
Signature:
Name: Robert W. Bleil
Title: Regulatory & Environmental Manager
Date:
Applicant Name & Address: Ursa Operating Company, LLC
1050 17th Street, Suite 2400
Denver, CO 80265
Site Name and Location: Battlement Mesa
Township 7 South
Range 95 West
Garfield County, Colorado
22 May 2013
11.2 Storm Water Management Plan Administrator
The SWMP Administrator is responsible for developing, implementing, maintaining, and
revising the SWMP. This individual is responsible for the accuracy, completeness, and
implementation of the SWMP.
SWMP Administrator Certification
I certify under penalty of law that I understand the terms and conditions of the SWMP
and associated CDPS General Permit that authorizes storm water discharges associated
with industrial activity from the construction sites identified as part of this certification.
Signature:
Name: Robert W. Bleil
Title: Regulatory & Environmental Manager
Date:
Representing:
Company: Ursa Operating Company, LLC
Address: 1050 17th Street, Suite 2400
Address: Denver, CO 80265
Phone: 970.625.9922
23 May 2013
12.0 ADDITIONAL BMP REFERENCES
The structural and non-structural BMPs listed in this SWMP are intended to include all
BMPs that may be used for gas gathering projects. However, there may be situations
where a BMP is needed but not included in this SWMP, or project personnel may need
additional information on the installation, use, specifications, and/or maintenance of
BMPs. Additional information regarding various BMPs is available by referencing the
following:
For oil and gas operations, the Bureau of Land Management and U.S. Forest Service have
developed “Surface Operating Standards and Guidelines for Oil and Gas Exploration and
Development,” “Gold Book.” The most recent version (fourth edition) of this is
available on the internet at: http://www.blm.gov./bmp/GoldBook_Draft_v12.pdf.
For Construction BMPs the Urban Drainage and Flood Control District, a Colorado Front
Range group of city and county agencies has developed a BMP manual that is available
on the internet at:
http://swcc.state.al.us/pdf/ASWC_June_2003_Alabama_Handbook_ConstructionE&S_C
ontrol.pdf.
For construction BMPs and surface stabilization methods, the Alabama Soil and Water
Conservation Committee have developed “Erosion Control, Sediment Control and Storm
Water Management on Construction Sites and Urban Areas, Volume 1 Developing Plans
and Designing Best Management Practices.” This information is available on the internet
at: http://www.blm.gov/bmp/field%20guide.htm
For access roads, the US Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management have
developed “Low-Volume Roads Engineering, Best Management Practices Field Guide,”
which is available online at: http://www.blm.gov/bmp/field%20guide.htm
For seeding methods and applications information was obtained from the Practical
Handbook of Disturbed Land Revegetation. Frank F. Munshower, CRC Press Inc. 1994