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The submission of Form DHEC 3559, titled Notice of Intent (NOI) for a NPDES General Permit for Discharges Associated with Nonmetallic Mineral Mining Facilities SCG730000, is a critical step for operators in South Carolina aiming to discharge stormwater from nonmetallic mineral mining sites, including borrow pits, into U.S. waters legally. This document serves as a declaration by the facility that it intends to comply with specific discharge permit requirements. It encompasses a broad range of information starting from basic site and operator details to more complex discharge-related data. Essential components such as the materials to be mined, Standard Industrial Classification (SIC) codes, site-specific discharge information including the type of discharges (like mine dewatering, process-generated wastewater, and equipment wash water), and estimates of stormwater runoff volumes are meticulously outlined. Moreover, it mandates the provision of site maps, discharge path descriptions, and adjacent water bodies potentially affected by the discharge. The obligation of the operators to pay an annual operating fee of $100 emphasizes the ongoing commitment required for permit coverage under this framework. The form also includes a stern reminder of the legal and penalty clauses for submitting false information, underscoring the gravity and integrity of the data provided by applicants. Overall, Form DHEC 3559 plays a pivotal role in the regulation and oversight of nonmetallic mineral mining activities, ensuring they are conducted in an environmentally responsible manner that minimizes impacts to water quality.

Document Example

Notice of Intent (NOI)

NPDES General Permit for Discharges

Associated with Nonmetallic Mineral Mining Facilities

SCG730000

Submission of this Notice of Intent constitutes notice that the party identiied in this form intends to be authorized by a NPDES permit issued for Nonmetallic Mineral Mining discharges in a State location identiied in this form. Becoming a permittee obligates such a discharge to comply with all terms and conditions of the permit. ALL NECESSARY INFORMATION

MUST BE INCLUDED WITH THIS FORM. AN ANNUAL OPERATING FEE OF $100 IS REQUIRED FOR COVERAGE UNDER THIS PERMIT. See Instructions.

I.Site/Operator Information

Name of the Mining or Pit Site: Site Address:

Site City:

 

State:

Site County:

Site ZIP (if available):

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Tax map # (list all):

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Company/Operator Name:

 

 

 

 

 

 

Phone:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Company/Operator Physical Address (do not use PO Boxes):

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Federal

STATE

City:

 

State:

ZIP:

Operator Status:

Public

Private

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

II. Site Contact Information

Contact Name:

 

 

 

 

 

 

Phone:

Contact Title:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mailing and Billing Address:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

City:

 

 

State:

 

ZIP:

 

Email (optional):________________________________

III. Site and Discharge Information

A.Materials to be Mined:

B.SIC or Activity Codes: Primary:

(if material is mined solely as ill dirt, write ill dirt in the blank, not “sand” or “clay”)

2nd:3rd:4th:

(The primary SIC codes for nonmetallic mining activities are in the 1400 series, for example ill dirt pits have the SIC code of 1499. Please list any other SIC codes that apply to this activity.)

C.Total number of acres to be affected by the mining activity:

D.Does the site currently have Nonmetallic Mineral Mining Discharge General Permit coverage?

IF Yes complete this permit number SCG73

 

 

; otherwise mark

NO

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

E. List any other NPDES or ND Permit numbers for the site: SC

 

 

 

SC

 

 

 

ND

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

F. Is this site exempt from the Mining Act?

Yes, Reason for exemption:

 

 

No, Mining Permit #:

 

 

G. Will this site discharge mine dewatering (see instructions for deinition)?

 

YES

NO

Will this site discharge a process-generated wastewater (see instructions for deinition)?

 

YES

NO

Will this site discharge mine equipment wash water (see instructions for deinition)?

 

YES

NO

Will this site discharge suction dredge water (see instructions for deinition)?

 

YES

NO

H.Provide the latitude and longitude (to the nearest 15 seconds) of the site, and the name of the nearest receiving water body (ex: to unnamed tributary to Saluda River). If any answer in G. above is “yes”, also list each outfall and the low (in gallons per day).

Outfall Number

or

Storm Water

Flow

(gallons per

day)

Latitude

Longitude

 

 

 

 

 

 

Deg

Min

Sec

Deg

Min

Sec

 

 

 

 

 

 

Receiving Waters

DHEC 3559 (01/2011)

SOUTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL

I.Describe the discharge low path from the point it exits the system to the point it enters the receiving water (attach a separate sheet if more space is needed). Please note, if applicable, that easements have been obtained for any conveyances of the discharge not on property of the permittee, which are not waters of the State.

J.Locate the site and any discharges on a U.S. Geological Survey 7½ minute quad sheet. An 8½ x 11 copy of the portion of the map with the site and the discharge identiied should be submitted with this NOI.

USGS Map Quadrant Name:

K.Provide a map of the site that shows the following:

a.The property boundary and all areas that will be affected by mining activities (i.e. the pits or excavation areas, overburden areas, material stockpiles, etc.)

b.Location of planned access and haul roads on the area to be affected.

c.Location and name (if appropriate) of streams, lakes, wetlands and existing drainage ditches within the area to be permitted. Use arrows to indicate direction of water low in such streams and drainage ditches.

d.A legend showing the name of applicant, name of the proposed mine, north arrow, county, scale, date of preparation and name and title of the person who prepared the site map.

L.Describe all operations that contribute wastewater to the discharge and any treatment that is provided. Attach any existing data on the quality of the discharge.

M.Use the space below to bring to the Department’s attention any additional information you feel should be considered in the permit decision. Attach an additional sheet if necessary.

IV. Certiication

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 qualiied personnel gather and evaluate the information submitted. Based on my inquiry of the person or persons who man- age the system, or those persons directly responsible for gathering the information, the information submitted is, to the best of my knowledge and belief, true, accurate, and complete. I am aware that there are signiicant penalties for submitting false information including the possibility of ine and imprisonment for knowing violations.

Print Name:

Title:

 

 

 

 

 

Signature:

 

 

Date:

 

 

 

 

 

DHEC 3559 (01/2011)

INSTRUCTIONS

Notice Of Intent (NOI) For Nonmetallic Mineral Mining Discharges To Be Covered Under the NPDES General Permit SCG730000

Who Must File A Notice of Intent (NOI) Form.

Federal law at 40 CFR Part 122 prohibits point source discharges to a water body(ies) of the U.S. without a National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit. The operator of a site that has nonmetallic mineral mining discharges (including borrow pits) must submit a NOI to obtain coverage under the NPDES General Permit for Nonmetallic Mineral Mining Discharges. If you have questions about whether you need a permit under the NPDES Program, or if you need information as to whether a particular program is administered by EPA or a state agency, contact S.C. DHEC at (803) 898-4300.

Deinitions

Process-Generated Wastewater: is any wastewater used in the slurry transport of mined material, air emissions control (excluding water used for dust suppression on roads which is evaporated or absorbed by soils such that no runoff to a receiving stream occurs), or processing exclusive of mining. The term shall also include any other water, which becomes commingled with such wastewater in a pit, pond, lagoon, mine or other facility used for treatment of such wastewater.

Mine dewatering is any water that is impounded or that collects in the mine and is pumped, drained or otherwise removed from the mine through the efforts of the mine operator. This term shall also include wet pit overlows caused solely by direct rainfall and ground water seepage. However, if a mine is also used for treatment of mine process generated wastewater, discharges of commingled water from the mine shall be deemed discharges of mine process generated wastewater.

Mine Equipment Wash Water – means wastewater generated by washing mine equipment (including trucks) used in onsite mining operations. To qualify as mine equipment wash water under this general permit any soaps or detergents used for washing must be biodegradable and phosphate-free.

Suction Dredge Water – means wastewater generated from suction dredging in sand or gravel dredge mining operations conducted in surface waters classiied as Waters of the State and subsequently processed onshore to extract the sand or gravel. Suction dredge waters generated from dredging operations conducted in a mine pit are not included in this deinition.

Storm Water Associated with the Industrial Activity of Mining means storm water runoff, snow melt runoff, and surface runoff and drainage from facilities classiied as Standard Industrial Classiication 14 (non-metallic mineral industry) including active or inactive mining operations that discharge storm water contaminated by contact with or that has COME INTO CONTACT with, any overburden, raw material, intermediate products, inished products, byproducts or waste products located on the site of such operations. Inactive mining operations are mining sites that are not being actively mined, but which have an identiiable owner/operator; inactive mining sites do not include sites where mining claims are being maintained prior to disturbances associated with the extraction, beneiciation, or processing mined materials, nor sites where minimal activities are undertaken for the sole purpose of maintaining a mining claim.

Where To File NOI Form.

NOIs must be sent to the following address:

SC Department of Health & Environmental Control

Industrial Wastewater Permitting Section

2600 Bull Street

Columbia, SC 29201

Completing the Form

You must type or print all information. If you have any questions on this form, call S.C. DHEC at (803) 898-4300.

Revisions to a previously submitted NOI

If there are only changes in name, address, or site contact person, only Sections I, II and IV of the NOI are required to be completed. The entire NOI should be completed for changes in discharge(s) or discharge characteristics.

Fees

The annual NPDES administration fee of $100 is required to be submitted with the NOI for coverage of a new site. Make check payable to S.C. DHEC and attach to NOI.

Section I: Site/Operator Information.

Give the legal name and physical address of the site to be permitted, including city, state, zip and county. If the site lacks a street address, indicate the state or county highway number, the nearest town or city, or the quarter section, township, and range (to the nearest quarter section) of the approximate center of the site. Provide tax map numbers.

Give the legal name of the person, irm, public organization, or any other entity that operates the site described in this application. The name of the operator may or may not be the same name as the site. The operator of the site is the legal entity, which controls the site’s operation, rather than the property owner, or the plant or site manager. Do not use a colloquial name. Enter the physical address and telephone number of the home or regional ofice of the operator.

Operator Status: Indicate the legal ownership status of the operator: Federal, State, Public (other than federal or state), or Private

Section II: Site Contact Information

Enter the name, title and complete address and phone number of the person who is familiar with the operation of the site and with the facts reported in this NOI and to whom all permitting correspondence should be sent. If you would like to be contacted by email, you may enter your email address.

Section III: Site and Discharge Information.

A.List materials to be mined at the site. If sand and /or clay is mined solely for use as ill dirt list the material as “ill dirt”.

B.List the four 4-digit standard industrial classiication (SIC) codes that best describes the principal services provided at the site identiied in Section I. For the purposes of this permit a mining code in the 1400 series should be listed as the primary, a construction or excavation code (e.g. 1794) may be listed as one of the other codes.

C.Indicate the total number of acres to be affected by the mining activity.

D.Indicate whether the site is currently covered by the Nonmetallic Mineral Mining Discharge General Permit and give the permit number, if applicable. This section is used for updates to or transfers of existing permitted sites.

E.List any other NPDES or ND (land application) permits issued for the site, if applicable.

F.Indicate whether the site is required to obtain a Mine Operation Permit or whether the Mining Act exempts it. If the site is exempt, state the reason for the exemption (for example a SCDOT borrow pit).

G.Indicate whether the site has a discharge of mine dewatering, process generated wastewater, mine equipment wash water, or suction dredge water. Otherwise the site will be covered for stormwater only.

H.If there is a discharge of mine dewatering or process wastewater, mine equipment wash water, or suction dredge water, list the discharges for which coverage is sought. Actual or estimated low data should be included for the discharge. If coverage is sought for more than one discharge of the same type, please list each discharge separately. If more space is needed, attach a separate sheet. If there will only be stormwater covered by this permit, “stormwater” should be indicated.

Give the latitude and longitude (to the nearest 15 seconds) for each discharge and the name of the receiving waters. Name all waters to which discharge is made and which low into signiicant receiving waters. For example, if the discharge is made to a ditch, which lows into an unnamed tributary, which in turn lows into a named river, you should provide the name or description (if no name is available) of the ditch, the tributary and the river.

I.Describe any discharge low paths.

J.Provide an 8½ x 11 copy of the applicable portion of a US Geological Survey 7½ minute quad map. The map must show the outline of the site affected by mining and the location of any discharge point(s). The quad sheet name must be provided with the map.

K.Provide a detailed site map of the mining activity.

L.Provide additional information about the quality of the discharge.

M.Provide any other relevant information.

Section IV: Certiication

Please print the name and title of the authorized person and sign and date in accordance with the following:

Federal statutes provide for severe penalties for submitting false information on this application form. Federal regulations require this application to be signed as follows:

For a corporation: by a responsible corporate oficer, which means: (i) president, secretary, treasurer, or vice-president of the corporation in charge of a principal business function, or any other person who performs similar policy or decision making functions, or (ii) the manager of one or more manufacturing, production, or operating facilities employing more than 250 persons or having gross annual sales or expenditures exceeding $25 million (in second-quarter 1980), if authority to sign documents has been assigned or delegated to the manager in accordance with corporate procedures:

For a partnership or sole proprietorship: by a general partner or the proprietor; or

For a municipality, State, Federal, or other public facility: by either a principal executive oficer or ranking elected oficial.

Paperwork Reduction Act Notice

Public reporting burden for this application is estimated to average 1.5 hours per application, including time for reviewing instructions, searching existing data sources, gathering and maintaining the data needed, and completing and reviewing the collection of information. Send comments regarding the burden estimate, any other aspect of the collection of information, or suggestions for improving this form, including any suggestions which may increase or reduce this burden to: Manager, Industrial Wastewater Permitting Section, Bureau of Water, S.C. Dept. of Health & Environmental Control, 2600 Bull Street, Columbia, SC 29201-1797.

DHEC 3559 (01/2011)

Form Properties

Fact Detail
Purpose The DHEC 3559 form is used to submit a Notice of Intent (NOI) for coverage under the NPDES General Permit for discharges associated with Nonmetallic Mineral Mining Facilities (SCG730000).
Who Must File Operators of sites with nonmetallic mineral mining discharges, including borrow pits, intending to be authorized by an NPDES permit.
Fees An annual operating fee of $100 is required for coverage under the permit.
Governing Law Federal law 40 CFR Part 122, which prohibits point source discharges to waters of the U.S. without an NPDES permit, alongside specific requirements set by the South Carolina Department of Health & Environmental Control.

Guide to Writing Dhec 3559

After deciding to submit a Notice of Intent to be covered under the NPDES General Permit for Discharges Associated with Nonmetallic Mineral Mining Facilities in South Carolina, it's key to carefully complete the DHEC 3559 form. This document is your first step towards compliance and environmental stewardship. With meticulous attention to detail, ensure that all the required information is provided accurately to avoid any delays or issues with the permitting process. Alongside this form, remember to prepare the annual operating fee of $100, as it's necessary for your application to be processed.

Here's a structured guide to help you fill out the form accurately:

  1. Under Section I: Site/Operator Information, start by noting down the name of the mining or pit site, its address, city, state, county, and ZIP code. Include the tax map number(s) and the company or operator's details, including physical address and phone number, while specifying the operator's status as public or private.
  2. In Section II: Site Contact Information, provide the contact person's name, their title, full mailing and billing address, phone number, and optionally, an email address.
  3. Proceed to Section III: Site and Discharge Information. Here, you'll need to:
    • List the materials to be mined and the relevant SIC or Activity Codes, indicating the primary materials and any other codes that apply.
    • Specify the total acreage affected by the mining activity.
    • State whether the site currently holds Nonmetallic Mineral Mining Discharge General Permit coverage; if so, provide the permit number.
    • List any other NPDES or land application permits for the site.
    • Indicate whether the site is exempt from the Mining Act, including the reason for exemption or the mining permit number.
    • Detail if the site will discharge mine dewatering, process-generated wastewater, mine equipment wash water, or suction dredge water. Provide outfall numbers or stormwater flow (in gallons per day), and the latitude and longitude of the site along with the nearest receiving water body.
  4. Section I, Parts I, J, K, L, and M require you to describe the discharge path, locate the site and discharges on a USGS map, provide a detailed site map showing mining activity areas, describe operations contributing to wastewater discharge including any treatments, and present any other relevant information that could impact the permit decision.
  5. Finally, in Section IV: Certification, the document must be signed and dated by an authorized person, verifying that all provided information is true, accurate, and complete to the best of their knowledge. This section confirms awareness of the penalties for submitting false information.

Once the DHEC 3559 form is fully completed, attach the necessary map documentation and the $100 fee. Submit the complete package to the specified address. This formal submission marks your commitment to environmental compliance, ensuring that your operations are aligned with state regulations and safeguards.

Understanding Dhec 3559

What is the DHEC 3559 form used for?

The DHEC 3559 form, also known as the Notice of Intent (NOI) for NPDES General Permit for Discharges Associated with Nonmetallic Mineral Mining Facilities SCG730000, is used to notify the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) that an entity intends to seek authorization under the NPDES permit for nonmetallic mineral mining discharges within the state. Submission of this form is the first step in gaining coverage under this specific NPDES general permit.

Who is required to file the DHEC 3559 form?

Any operator of a site that has nonmetallic mineral mining discharges, including borrow pits, in South Carolina must submit the DHEC 3559 form to obtain coverage under the NPDES General Permit for Nonmetallic Mineral Mining Discharges. This requirement is in compliance with federal law, specifically 40 CFR Part 122, which prohibits point source discharges to bodies of water in the U.S. without NPDES permit authorization.

What information is required when submitting the DHEC 3559 form?

The form requires comprehensive details about the mining site and operations, including but not limited to: site/operator information, contact details, materials to be mined, SIC codes, discharge information, and any existing permits. It also necessitates specifics on the acreage affected by mining activities, discharge types (if applicable), a detailed site map, and other pertinent operational details.

Is there a fee associated with the DHEC 3559 form submission?

Yes, there is an annual operating fee of $100 required for coverage under the NPDES General Permit for Nonmetallic Mineral Mining Discharges. This fee must be included with the submission of the NOI form.

Where should the DHEC 3559 form be submitted?

The completed form and any accompanying documents and fees should be sent to the SC Department of Health & Environmental Control, specifically to the Industrial Wastewater Permitting Section, located at 2600 Bull Street, Columbia, SC 29201.

What happens after the form is submitted?

Upon submission, DHEC will review the NOI and the information provided to determine if the operation meets the requirements for coverage under the NPDES General Permit for Nonmetallic Mineral Mining Discharges. If approved, the operator will receive authorization to discharge under the permit’s terms and conditions.

Can changes be made to the NOI after submission?

Yes, revisions to a previously submitted NOI, such as changes in name, address, or site contact person, require only Sections I, II, and IV to be completed again. For changes in discharge(s) or discharge characteristics, the entire NOI must be filled out anew.

What are the consequences of submitting false information on the DHEC 3559 form?

Submitting false information on the DHEC 3559 form can lead to significant penalties, including fines and imprisonment for knowing violations. Accurate and truthful information is a legal requirement under federal law.

Are there specific signing requirements for the DHEC 3559 form?

Yes, the form must be signed in accordance with federal regulations. This includes signatures by a responsible corporate officer for corporations, a general partner or the proprietor for a partnership or sole proprietorship, or a principal executive officer or ranking elected official for municipalities or other public facilities.

What if additional information needs to be considered in the permit decision?

If there is additional relevant information that should be considered in the permit decision, it can be included in Section M of the form, with the option to attach additional sheets if necessary. This could be information about the site, operations, or environmental considerations not covered elsewhere on the form.

Common mistakes

Filling out the DHEC 3559 form, also known as the Notice of Intent for NPDES General Permit for Discharges Associated with Nonmetallic Mineral Mining Facilities, is a critical step in complying with state regulations. However, certain mistakes can hinder the process. Here are six common errors to avoid:

  1. Not Providing Complete Site or Operator Information: It's crucial to fill out every detail in the Site/Operator Information section. Missing or incorrect information about the site name, address, or the operator can cause delays.

  2. Overlooking Contact Information: The site contact person's details are essential for any follow-up or clarification. Failing to provide a complete address, phone number, or email (if optional) can lead to communication breakdowns.

  3. Inaccurate Site and Discharge Information: The materials being mined and the discharge types need accurate representation. Misidentifying materials or not correctly indicating the discharge types can lead to incorrect permit coverage.

  4. Omitting Detail on Discharge Flow Paths and Locations: It's not enough to state that there will be discharges; you must also describe where these discharges will go. Neglecting to detail the discharge flow paths and accurately providing latitude and longitude can make the permit inaccurate.

  5. Forgetting Attachments: The requirement for maps, such as the USGS 7½ minute quad sheet and a detailed site map, is often overlooked. These documents are critical for understanding the site layout and the environmental context.

  6. Incorrect Certification: The certification section needs to be signed by an authorized representative. An incorrect or missing signature can invalidate the entire submission.

By avoiding these common errors, you can ensure your NOI submission is accurate, complete, and in compliance with state requirements. Checking each section carefully and providing all requested information and attachments will facilitate a smoother review process.

Documents used along the form

When it comes to complying with the Notice of Intent (NOI) NPDES General Permit for Discharges Associated with Nonmetallic Mineral Mining Facilities, identified by the DHEC 3559 form, several accompanying documents are typically required to ensure a comprehensive submission. This suite of documents can vary based on specific site conditions, operational details, and regulatory requirements. A detailed understanding of these documents can facilitate a smoother permitting process.

  • Site Plan: Illustrates the physical layout of the mining operation including locations of pits, processing facilities, stormwater control structures, and points of discharge. It's integral for visualizing the scope and impact of the operation.
  • Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP): A critical component, the SWPPP outlines measures to minimize sediment and pollutant runoff from the site, detailing both structural and non-structural best management practices (BMPs).
  • Geotechnical Report: Provides an analysis of soil stability, groundwater levels, and recommendations for slope, pit, and quarry designs to prevent unintended discharges or structural failures.
  • Hydrology Report: Offers an in-depth look at how water moves through and around the site, contributing to effective water management and discharge plans ensuring compliance with permit conditions.
  • Water Quality Data: Baseline and ongoing water quality monitoring data for waters receiving discharges from the site, demonstrating compliance with permitted discharge limits.
  • Groundwater Monitoring Plan: Details the methodology for monitoring groundwater levels and quality, ensuring mining activities do not adversely affect local groundwater resources.
  • Waste Management Plan: Describes how non-hazardous and hazardous waste generated at the site will be handled, stored, and disposed of, ensuring environmental protection and compliance with regulations.
  • Spill Prevention, Control, and Countermeasure (SPCC) Plan: Required for operations with aboveground oil storage capacity, outlining measures to prevent oil spills and procedures for response in case of a spill.
  • Endangered Species and Cultural Resources Assessments: Details findings of any endangered species or cultural resources present on the site and measures to mitigate impacts from mining activities.
  • Public Notice Documentation: Evidence of compliance with public notice requirements, providing transparency and an opportunity for public comment on proposed mining activities.

Understanding and preparing these documents in conjunction with the DHEC 3559 form enhance the efficacy of the permitting process, paving the way for environmental stewardship and regulatory compliance. Proper documentation ensures that mining operations can proceed with minimal environmental impact, safeguarding water quality and promoting sustainable resource management.

Similar forms

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) Notice of Intent (NOI) for the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) is a document bearing similarities to the DHEC 3559 form. Both serve as applications for permits related to water discharges but in different contexts. While the DHEC 3559 focuses on nonmetallic mineral mining facilities within South Carolina, the EPA’s NOI is broader, encompassing a wide range of industrial and construction activities impacting waters across the United States. Both forms require detailed information about the site, discharge types, and operator information, and their submission initiates the permit review process under their respective jurisdictions.

The Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) shares objectives similar to the DHEC 3559 form, though it approaches them differently. An SWPPP is a document that outlines how a construction site will minimize stormwater pollution. Like the DHEC 3559, SWPPPs are part of the regulatory compliance process to protect water quality. However, SWPPPs are more focused on the specific actions and best management practices to be implemented rather than serving as an application for permit coverage.

The Clean Water Act Section 404 Permit Application is akin to the DHEC 3559 in its aim to regulate discharges into U.S. waters, focusing specifically on the discharge of dredged or fill material. Applicants must provide information about the proposed discharges and their potential impacts on water quality, similar to how the DHEC 3559 gathers data on mining discharge. Both documents play crucial roles in maintaining water quality, though they target different types of discharges and are managed by different regulatory bodies.

The Industrial General Permit (IGP) Notice of Intent, specific to individual states or under the EPA’s purview, closely aligns with the purpose and structure of the DHEC 3559 form. This document also seeks authorization for discharges associated with industrial activity, requiring detailed site and discharge information. The key difference lies in the focus on industrial facilities rather than just nonmetallic mineral mining sites, broadening the application's scope but maintaining a similar commitment to environmental protection through regulated permit processes.

The Section 401 Water Quality Certification Application is another document with objectives aligned to the DHEC 3559. It is necessary for operators seeking to comply with state water quality standards when seeking federal permits for activities that may result in discharges to waters. Like the DHEC 3559, this application requires detailed project information to evaluate potential impacts on water quality, ensuring that the proposed activities uphold state water quality standards.

The Mining Operation Permit Application, often required at the state level for mining activities, shares similarities with the DHEC 3559 form in both purpose and content. While the DHEC 3559 focuses on the discharge aspect of mining operations, the Mining Operation Permit covers a broader array of activities including excavation, operation standards, and reclamation efforts. Both forms collect detailed information about the mining site, operational plans, and measures to protect environmental quality, though the latter may have a broader scope depending on specific state regulations.

The Hazardous Waste Permit Application, while focused on the management of hazardous waste rather than discharge, shares the common goal of environmental protection with the DHEC 3559 form. Operators of facilities that treat, store, or dispose of hazardous waste must submit detailed plans and facility information, similar to how the DHEC 3559 form collects data on mining-related discharges. Both are essential parts of regulatory compliance, aiming to minimize environmental impacts from industrial or mining operations, albeit through slightly different regulatory frameworks and objectives.

Dos and Don'ts

When you are preparing to complete the DHEC 3559 form, which is the Notice of Intent (NOI) NPDES General Permit for Discharges Associated with Nonmetallic Mineral Mining Facilities SCG730000, attention to detail is crucial. To ensure accuracy and compliance, please consider the following guidelines:

  • Do thoroughly read the instructions provided with the form before you start filling it out. The instructions offer valuable information regarding who must file, definitions of terms, and where to file.
  • Do ensure that all information is typed or clearly printed to avoid misunderstandings or processing delays caused by illegible handwriting.
  • Do include all necessary information such as the legal name and physical address of the site, the minerals to be mined, and the total number of acres affected by the mining activity.
  • Do attach the required maps and diagrams, including a US Geological Survey 7½ minute quad sheet showing the site and any discharge points as well as a detailed site map as indicated in Sections J and K of the form.
  • Do verify the accuracy and completeness of the information provided, especially regarding the discharge types and the locations' latitude and longitude to the nearest 15 seconds. This ensures proper identification and assessment of environmental impact.
  • Do not use P.O. Boxes for the company/operator physical address—always provide a physical address to meet the compliance requirements.
  • Do not overlook the necessity to describe in detail the discharge flow path from the point it exits the system to the point it enters the receiving water, as required in Section I. This can include noting any easements for discharge conveyances not on property of the permittee.

Remember, accurately completing the DHEC 3559 form is not just about regulatory compliance; it's about participating responsibly in environmental stewardship. Take the time to review each section carefully, provide complete and accurate information, and consult with the South Carolina Department of Health & Environmental Control (SC DHEC) if you have any questions. This thorough approach will help ensure that your mining activities are conducted in a manner that is respectful of South Carolina's environmental regulations.

Misconceptions

There are several misconceptions about the DHEC 3559 form, also known as the Notice of Intent (NOI) NPDES General Permit for Discharges Associated with Nonmetallic Mineral Mining Facilities SCG730000. Understanding these misconceptions is essential for operators seeking to comply with regulatory requirements.

  • Misconception 1: The form is optional for mining operations.

    Contrary to this belief, submission of the DHEC 3559 form is mandatory for all nonmetallic mineral mining facilities that wish to discharge into waters within the state and seek coverage under the NPDES General Permit.

  • Misconception 2: Any mining operator can fill out the form.

    In reality, the form must be completed and certified by a responsible official of the company, such as a corporate officer or a manager with delegated authority.

  • Misconception 3: Submission of the form guarantees permit approval.

    Submitting the form is only the first step in the process. Approval is contingent upon the operator's ability to meet all permit terms and conditions.

  • Misconception 4: A single form covers multiple mining sites.

    Each mining site requires its own form. Operators cannot use one form to apply for coverage for multiple locations.

  • Misconception 5: The annual operating fee is negotiable.

    The $100 fee is fixed and required for coverage under the permit, with no exceptions for negotiation.

  • Misconception 6: Digital submissions are accepted.

    As of the last update to the form, submissions must be sent to the specified address, indicating a preference for physical copies over digital.

  • Misconception 7: The form is only for sites already under operation.

    The form is required for both existing operations and new sites seeking to commence mining activities and discharge.

  • Misconception 8: Changes in site contact information do not require form resubmission.

    Any changes in name, address, or site contact person necessitate the completion of Sections I, II, and IV of a new form to ensure current information is on file.

Correcting these misconceptions is vital for operators to ensure compliance with state and federal regulations governing nonmetallic mineral mining activities and their associated discharges.

Key takeaways

Filling out the DHEC 3559 form is essential for obtaining coverage under the NPDES General Permit for Discharges Associated with Nonmetallic Mineral Mining Facilities in South Carolina. Here are key takeaways to guide you through the process:

  • Understand the commitment: By submitting the Notice of Intent (NOI), you are notifying that you intend to comply with all the terms and conditions of the NPDES permit. This is a legal obligation to adhere to environmental regulations.
  • Complete the form thoroughly: Make sure all necessary information is included with the form. Incomplete submissions can delay the process. This includes site and operator information, discharge details, and a comprehensive description of the site’s operation and waste treatment.
  • Submit the form correctly: The NOI must be sent to the SC Department of Health & Environmental Control’s Industrial Wastewater Permitting Section. Accuracy in submission address and following the instructions on where to send the NOI are crucial for a valid application.
  • Include the fee: An annual operating fee of $100 is required for coverage under this permit. Ensure that the check is payable to S.C. DHEC and attached to the NOI for timely processing.
  • Sign with authority: The certification section of the form must be signed by an authorized person. This could be a responsible corporate officer, a partner in a partnership, the proprietor of a sole proprietorship, or a principal executive officer of a public facility. Federal law enforces severe penalties for false information, emphasizing the importance of accurate and truthful submissions.

Remember, compliance with environmental regulations not only protects natural resources but also ensures that your operations run smoothly and legally. For any questions regarding the DHEC 3559 form or the permit process, contacting the S.C. DHEC is recommended to ensure accuracy and compliance.

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