B08_Solicitation_RFQ1705707_Attachment_2_-_USFWS_Preliminary_Assessment_Report_Wichita_Mtns_NWR_1_17_24.pdf

USFWS Preliminary Assessment Report

Wichita Mountains National Wildlife Refuge Abandoned Mine Land Sites GSA Contract No. GS10F200BA

Work Order No. 140FHR23F0003

Prepared by Professional Environmental Engineers, Inc.

1/17/2024

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Revision Log:

Revision # Revision Date Revision Description

USFWS Wichita Mountains NWR Draft Preliminary Assessment Report – 2 AML Sites Comanche County, Oklahoma January 2024

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Signatories:

Carlton Morris / Infrastructure Management Division

[POC Signature]

[Insert Date]

Michael Blanch / Regional

Environmental Coordinator

[Signature]

Amber Zimmerman / Wichita Mountains National Wildlife Refuge

Manager

[POC Signature]

By signing above, the signatories verify that they understand and concur with the information and recommendations presented herein.

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Table of Contents

List of Abbreviations and Acronyms ........................................................................................................ v

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

1. INTRODUCTION

1.1. General Site Setting

1.2. Geologic Setting and Hydrogeology

1.3. Climate and Topography

1.4. Vegetation and Wildlife

1.5. Wichita Mountains Mining History

2. RECORDS REVIEW

2.1. Previous Investigations and Regulatory Activity

2.2. Environmental Data Resources

2.3. Aerial Photographs

2.4. Topographic Maps

2.5. Conceptual Site Exposure Models

2.6. Site Evaluation Factors

3. BONANZA/COPPER EAGLE MINE (SITE #1)

3.1. Site Location and Description

3.2. Operational History and Waste Characteristics

3.3. Exposure Pathways

3.3.1. Geology and Hydrogeology

3.3.2. Surface Water

3.3.3. Soil, Sediment, Air

3.4. Pathway and Environmental Hazard Assessment

3.5. Summary of Conclusions and Recommendations

4. BLUE BEAVER CREEK SMELTER (SITE #2)

4.1. Site Location and Description

4.2. Operational History and Waste Characteristics

4.3. Exposure Pathways

4.3.1. Geology and Hydrogeology

4.3.2. Surface Water

4.3.3. Soil, Sediment, Air

4.4. Pathway and Environmental Hazard Assessment

4.5. Summary of Conclusions and Recommendations

5. CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

6. REFERENCES

Figures Figure 1: NWR Location Map Figure 2: Site Locations Map Figure 3: Geologic Map of Oklahoma Figure 4-1: Bonanza/Copper Eagle Mine Site Location Map Figure 4-2: Bonanza/Copper Eagle Mine Environmental Receptors Map

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Figure 5-1: Blue Beaver Creek Smelter Site Location Map Figure 5-2: Blue Beaver Creek Smelter Environmental Receptors Map

Appendices

Appendix A – EDR Radius Map Report

Appendix B – EDR Aerial Photograph, EDR Topographic Map

Appendix C – Conceptual Site Exposure Models

Appendix D – Field Notes

Appendix E – Photographic Logs

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List of Abbreviations and Acronyms

AML Abandoned Mine Lands amsl above mean sea level

CERCLA Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act

CERCLIS Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Information System

CSEM Conceptual Site Exposure Model

EDR Environmental Data Resources, Inc

GSA General Services Agreement

No. Number

NWR National Wildlife Refuge

OK Oklahoma

PA Preliminary Assessment

PE Professional Environmental Engineers, Inc.

Refuge National Wildlife Refuge

USFWS United States Fish and Wildlife Service

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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Professional Environmental Engineers, Inc. (PE) conducted Preliminary Assessments (PAs) at 2 Abandoned Mine Lands (AML) sites in the Wichita Mountains National Wildlife Refuge (NWR or the Refuge) located in Comanche County, Oklahoma (OK) about 8 miles northwest of Lawton, OK. Figure 1 shows the location of the Wichita Mountains NWR. Two sites have been identified for Comprehensive Environmental Response Compensation and Liability Act (CERCLA) PAs, the Bonanza/Copper Eagle Mine and the Blue Beaver Creek Smelter. Figure 2 shows the locations of each AML site within Wichita Mountains NWR.

Each of the two AML sites were investigated by PE as part of the early CERCLA process to determine if threats to human health and/or the environment exist Published documents, historical data, and reports contained in files maintained by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) were reviewed by PE to obtain background information and review operational histories for each site, evaluate potential releases related to the former mining/smelting operations, evaluate pathways and receptors, and determine if additional CERCLA action is required.

Historical site data, government record database search results, and information pursuant to the National Environmental Policy Act, compiled by Environmental Data Resource Inc. (EDR), were also evaluated by PE and are included in this report.

Waste materials (smelter slag and mined waste rock) were observed by PE at both locations.

Additionally, complete exposure pathways for surface soil, sediment, air, and surface water were considered to exist at each of the 2 AML sites within this study. Refer to the Conceptual Site Models (CSEMs) (presented as Figures C1-1 and C2-1 for human receptors and Figures C1-2 and C2-2 for ecological receptors) for additional information on these pathways, potential source areas, and release and transport mechanisms.

For the two AML sites, further action is recommended. PE recommends that Sls be conducted at both sites to include: 1) collect surface soil samples from areas with (or adjacent to) on-site waste materials (i.e. - mine waste rock, smelter surface area); and 2) collect surface soil, sediment, and surface water (if present) from on site (including one or more background areas, random locations on site, and from Blue Beaver Creek, Lake Rush, and Fawn Creek).

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1. INTRODUCTION

At the request of the USFWS, PE conducted a PA to evaluate risks to human health and the environment related to historical mining and smelting operations at two AML sites in the Wichita Mountains NWR, located within southwestern OK. Figure 1 shows the location of the NWR.

Figure 2 shows the locations of the 2 AML sites within the Refuge, the Bonanza/Copper Eagle Mine and the Blue Beaver Creek Smelter. The PAs were conducted in general accordance with U.S. Environmental Protection Agency guidance for Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, & Liability Act (CERCLA) sites. Exceptions to the guidance included Hazard Ranking System scoring package (not required by USFWS).

This PA has been prepared by PE under General Services Agreement (GSA) Contract No.

GS10F200BA and USFWS Work Order No. 140FHR23F0003.

The PAs were conducted to meet the following objectives:

• Identify, describe, and document past and present practices and processes related to storage, use, and disposal of hazardous substances at each site.

• Identify routine and non-routine activities at each site that may have led to the release of hazardous constituents into the environment.

• Determine operational histories for each site, including when specific hazardous substance management practices began and ceased; the type and quantity of substances involved; and locations where storage, use, and disposal activities occurred.

• Evaluate exposure pathways and relevant targets/receptors at each site and create a CSEM considering available information.

• Recommend appropriate further action (if necessary) for each site.

The scope of the investigation included review of available records (historical and local, state, and Federal agency file information); a preliminary evaluation of potential impacts to site media;

identification of potential migration routes, exposure pathways, and receptors; a site inspection/reconnaissance; and interviews with USFWS personnel. Information collected included research concerning site backgrounds, operational histories, and current environmental conditions to assess potential threats posed to human health and the environment and to determine whether additional CERCLA action is needed.

Based on the information gathered during the site reconnaissance visits, two AMLs were identified and assessed as part of these PAs at Wichita Mountains NWR, the Bonanza/Copper Eagle Mine and the Blue Beaver Creek Smelter.

Figure 2 shows the location of each of these sites by name as listed above.

1.1. General Site Setting

The two AML sites are located in the Wichita Mountains NWR, which is located in southwestern OK within the Wichita Mountains of Comanche County, OK (approximately 8 miles northwest of

USFWS Wichita Mountain NWR Draft Preliminary Assessment Report –2 AML Sites Comanche County, Oklahoma December 2023

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Lawton). The NWR is a tract of 59,020 acres embracing a major portion of the Wichita Mountains.

The NWR was originally established as a Forest Reserve in 1901 and then as the Wichita Forest and Game Preserve in 1905. The Preserve was transferred to the USFWS in 1936 when it was renamed as the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge for administration under the NWR System.

Originally, the Refuge consisted of 58,652 acres; however, in the 1950’s, 367 acres were reallocated from USFWS to the Fort Sill Military Base under congressional mandate (USFWS, 2013).

In October 1970, the Wichita Mountains Wilderness was established within the NWR. The Wilderness area consists of two units totaling 8,570 acres. They are identified as the Charons Garden Unit, located in the southwestern portion of the Refuge, and the North Mountain Unit, located in the north-central part of the Refuge (USFWS, 2013).

The refuge is bounded by Fort Sill and the City of Lawton to the south, along with unincorporated Comanche County to the north, east, and west (Figure 1). Highway 49 runs through the southern portion of the Refuge and Highway 115 runs to the south for the center of the Refuge and leads toward the City of Cache, OK (Figure 2).

1.2. Geologic Setting and Hydrogeology

Geology The geology of this region represents some of the oldest geologic strata outcroppings in Oklahoma. Rocks within the Wichita Mountains were formed during the Cambrian Period, 550 to 525 million years ago, and are composed primarily of igneous rocks such as granite and rhyolite (USFWS, 2013). Figure 3 depicts the general geology of the state of Oklahoma.

Rocky outcroppings are common. The granite exposed in the southern part of the Refuge from Quanah Mountain westward to Charons Garden is more coarsely crystalline than that forming Mt. Scott. The age of a very coarse granite dike in Charons Garden was determined at the Carnegie Institution of Washington as 500 to 550 million years old. Granite is the dominant rock of the Refuge, and the gravels formed by erosion are mainly composed of granite fragments

(USFWS, 2013).

Hydrogeology One distinctive feature of this semi-arid region is the presence of heavily used aquifers, such as the famous Ogalalla Aquifer and the Arbuckle-Simpson Aquifer. Groundwater in the area around the Refuge occurs in three aquifers: the Arbuckle Group (Cambrian and Ordovician), the Post Oak Conglomerate (Permian and Cimarronian), and Alluvial (Quaternary). All are partially recharged from Refuge surface waters (USFWS, 2013).

The Arbuckle Group aquifer is the largest source of groundwater in the immediate area, but it is generally poor quality. Several small communities in the area use this water source. Oklahoma has designated beneficial uses for the Arbuckle Group such as irrigation, municipal and domestic water supply, industrial, and non-irrigation agricultural. This aquifer is characterized by limestone, dolomite, sandy dolomite, mudstone, and conglomerate, about 6,000 feet thick

(USFWS, 2013).

Surface Water

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The Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge lies at a higher elevation than the surrounding landscape and is thereby situated at the top of the watershed. Creeks and streams on the Refuge are intermittent and seasonal. Prior to Refuge establishment, there were no year-round sources of water on the Refuge except small springs.

Manmade reservoirs and ponds account for the largest waterbodies on the Refuge. Most of the reservoirs that exist today were constructed during 1930s. Today, the Refuge supports 107 impoundments. Most impoundments were constructed to provide a water source for wildlife and are fed by the numerous seasonal creeks that bisect the Refuge. Of these structures, 77 are earthen ponds less than one acre in size. The remaining 30 impoundments were constructed with concrete and range in size from one-quarter acre to 336 acres. Lake Rush near the Blue Beaver Creek Smelter has an approximate area of 52 acres.

1.3. Climate and Topography

Climate The climate within the Refuge is characterized as having moderate temperatures. The average annual maximum temperature, which occurs in July, is around 95 degrees Fahrenheit (32.2 degrees Celsius). Annual average minimum temperatures in January are about 25.3 degrees Fahrenheit (-3.7 degrees Celsius). The typical frost-free period at the Refuge begins in early April and extends through early November, lasting on average 208 days (USFWS, 2013).

The average precipitation at the Refuge is about 31.3 inches per year. Fifteen percent of the annual precipitation is supplied by storms in May (USFWS, 2013).

Topography The mountains of the Wichita region were formed some 300 million years ago (Pennsylvanian period). They were created by a tremendous uplift accompanied by large folds and faults. Some of the faults were miles in length and produced large blocks. Some of these settled with respect to others, and the large flat areas bordering the Wichita Mountain Scenic Byway in the central part of the Refuge probably originated by faulting (USFWS, 2013).

The mountains originally were considerably higher than the present ones, as erosion has stripped off the upper parts and deposited this material in the intervening flats, reducing the relief. Most of this erosion took place in Permian time (some 250 million years ago) and produced extensive gravel deposits. Remnants of these gravels may be seen north of Crater Lake, north of Lake Elmer Thomas, east and south of Lost Lake, and in several other parts of the Refuge.

The maximum elevation is approximately 2,479 feet above mean sea level (amsl) at the summit of Mt. Pinchot, and the minimum elevation is approximately 1,280 feet amsl at the base of the Lake Elmer Thomas dam (USFWS, 2013).

1.4. Vegetation and Wildlife

Vegetation The Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge owes its character to the range of mountains from whence it gets its name. These topographic features and the climate of the region have created habitats of mixed-grass prairies, Cross timbers, and rocklands that define the Refuge and the biota that live there (USFWS, 2013).

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The Refuge lies at a vegetational crossroads along the eastern edge of the southern Great Plains region. The Refuge is divided into three distinct terrestrial habitats: central mixed-grass prairie, Crosstimbers Oak Forest and Woodland, and rocklands. The most extensive habitat on the Refuge is the central mixed-grass prairie, followed closely by the Crosstimbers Oak Forest and Woodland.

The rocklands are the least frequent of the habitats and contribute roughly four percent to the total land cover (USFWS, 2013).

Central Mixed-Grass Prairie The central mixed-grass prairie ranges from South Dakota into the rolling plains and the western Edwards Plateau of Texas. The mixed-grass prairie is bordered by the shortgrass prairie on its western edge and the tallgrass prairie to the east. The mixed-grass prairie contains elements from both shortgrass and tallgrass prairies, with species densities and distributions controlled primarily by soil moisture and topography (USFWS, 2013).

On the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge, the central mixed-grass prairie habitat encompasses 30,941 acres of area, accounting for 52.4 percent of the Refuge. The central mixed-grass prairie habitat on the Refuge contains membership of several different associations and alliances that make up 19 different species (USFWS, 2013).

Crosstimbers Oak Forest and Woodland The Crosstimbers habitat type is characterized by a “mosaic of forest, woodland, and savanna”.

Crosstimbers are one of the largest ecosystem types in the State of Oklahoma, with the majority of this ecotype located in the central and eastern parts of the State. The Crosstimbers habitat is defined by a varying mixture and densities of oaks and red cedar. On the Refuge, post oak is the most common species, followed by blackjack oak and red cedar. The composition and structure of the Crosstimbers habitat is affected by the dynamic processes of drought, fire, herbivory, and invasion of introduced species (USFWS, 2013).

On Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge, the Crosstimbers habitat encompasses 24,702 acres of area, accounting for 41.9 percent of the Refuge. The Crosstimbers Oak Forest and Woodland habitat on the Refuge contains membership of several different associations and alliances that make up 12 different species (USFWS, 2013).

Rocklands Habitat The Refuge‘s rockland habitats occur primarily on open and exposed mountain tops, southern slopes, and boulder slides. They are characterized by shallow soils, sparse vegetation, and gabbro and granite rock formations. The plant communities in the rocklands habitat type are dominated by annuals and species adapted to drought conditions. Plant diversity in the rocklands is positively related to the depth of soil in these habitats. Exposed rock formations inhibit the establishment of vegetation but also provide habitat for specialized species (USFWS, 2013).

On Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge, the rocklands habitat encompasses 2,474 acres of area, accounting for 4.2 percent of the Refuge (USFWS, 2013).

Wildlife In a region and transition zone where the distributions of eastern and western wildlife species overlap, the Wichita Mountains NWR supports habitats high in biodiversity. From the prairie habitats to oak savannas and rugged granite peaks, the Refuge offers a diversity of animal and plant communities. Vertebrate wildlife species that occur on the Refuge include: 60 species of mammals, 296 species of birds, 18 species of amphibians, 55 species of reptiles, and 35 species

Page | 6 of fishes. Over 1,000 invertebrates have been found on the Refuge and surrounding lands including the Fort Sill Military Base (USFWS, 2013).

There are currently five federally listed species that occur on the Refuge. They include the proposed endangered Tricolored Bat (Perimyotis subflavus), the endangered Whooping Crane (Grus americana), the threatened Rufa Red Knot (Calidris canutus rufa) and Piping Plover (Charadrius melodus), and the candidate Monarch Butterfly (Danaus plexippus) (USFWS, 2023a).

Bald Eagles (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) and Golden Eagles (Aquila chrysaetos) are protected by the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection act and the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. It is suspected that these eagles would most frequently occupy the Refuge during January.

1.5. Wichita Mountains Mining History

In the late 19th century, gold ore processing operations were conducted in the area now encompassed by the Refuge. The earliest mine known to historians occurred approximately 12 miles south of Granite, OK in 1886. During this time, miners and prospectors began rushing to the reported bonanza hills. In 1901, United States Troops, instructed to keep miners out, raided a mining camp in the Otter Creek mining district, destroying a smelter. At that time, it was illegal for men to stake claims, for this area was still the Comanche, Kiowa, and Apache Indian Reservation (Wilson, 1963).

The great “Oklahoma gold rush” finally began in August of 1901, when it was then legal to stake mineral claims. Thousands of prospectors hurried into the hills to discover prodigious deposits of what was reported to be gold, silver, copper, lead, platinum, zircons, and diamonds. This motivation for gold was at its height in the years prior to 1915. Mining camps of Wildman, Oreanna, Meers, Doris, and Golden Pass sprang up overnight. Tents were pitched in remote canyons, shafts and tunnels dug, smelters erected, and ore-grinders built (Wilson, 1963).

The mining of gold prior to the establishment of the Refuge has left some lingering effects to the soil, such as open pits and shafts, mine tailings, and traces of mercury and other contaminants.

Smelter sites were located on Blue Beaver Creek and Fawn Creek, while arrastras (grinding sites) were established on Cedar Creek and Panther Creek. Elevated metals concentrations were detected in the soils of these sites in the mid-1980s. A subsequent investigation indicated that these elevated metals were only likely to be soluble (biologically available) at acidic soil pH conditions (USFWS, 2013).

Records indicated that six smelters were constructed in the Wichita Mountains between 1901 and 1915. The first smelter site was Silas and G.W. Ison’s smelter in the western part of the Refuge. The smelter reportedly has been long since been torn down. Silas Ison later constructed another small smelter near his mines. These are reportedly located five miles north of Indiahoma.

The second smelter was the Sam Remer smelter, southwest of. Mt. Sheridan at the Snake Lode Mine. In 1904, reportedly 40 tons of ore taken from the Snake Mine were smelted in the Same Remer smelter. The assay showed 80 ounces of silver as well as some copper and platinum. The smelter; however, reportedly soon broke down and excitement over the site died. The third was built at the foot of Mt. Sheridan; the fourth was the John Pearson Smelter; the fifth was erected by Ollie Wells. The sixth was constructed by T.E. Cook at the foot of Elk Mountain (Wilson, 1963).

The sixth location was reportedly associated with the Bonanza/Copper Eagle Mine, operated by the Bonanza Mining Company from 1904 to 1906. The site was erected at the head of Fawn Creek

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Canyon. The miners T.E. Cook and his son, reportedly recovered a slug of gold the size of a 0.38-caliber bullet from the ore at the head of the tramway located at the site (Wilson, 1989).

Reports of previous mining operations within the Refuge noted that there was no gold, silver, copper, or zinc in paying quantities (Wilson, 1963).

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2. RECORDS REVIEW

PE reviewed available data resources to document the timing and scope of historical milling practices at each site and to locate mapped national wetlands, monitoring and supply wells, mapped flood zones, sensitive receptors, and nearby environmental cleanup sites. Aerial photography and topographic maps from EDR were referenced for the sites and vicinity observations. PE conducted inquiries with USFWS staff, knowledgeable about the site operations, activities, and reviewed previous information on site visits to obtain relevant information about the sites.

2.1. Previous Investigations and Regulatory Activity

No previous environmental investigations or sampling have been completed at these sites prior to these PAs.

2.2. Environmental Data Resources

EDR provided the following data that was used in conjunction with online research and literature regarding site operations and mining details:

• Wetlands Map from the National Wetlands Inventory (USFWS, 2023b)

• Flood Plain Map from the National Flood Plain Data (where available)

• Federal National Priorities List (Listed and Delisted)

• Federal Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Information System (CERCLIS) list including CERCLIS-No Further Remedial Action Planned

• Various Federal Resource Conservation and Recovery Act Lists

• State and Tribal registered tank lists and voluntary cleanup sites

• Historical Aerial Photographs

• Historical Topographic Maps

For a full list of referenced databases and to view the individual reports, refer to Appendix A.

2.3. Aerial Photographs

Satellite aerial imagery provided by EDR was used to review the historical impact at each of the AML sites and surrounding areas to assess potential land disturbances caused by historical mining activities. The photographs also were used to identify drainage patterns, depositional areas, and any potential cultural features. The aerial photographs are included in Appendix B.

2.4. Topographic Maps

Historical Topographic Maps provided by EDR were used to review the historical impact at each of the AML sites and surrounding areas to assess potential land disturbances caused by historical mining activities. The topographic maps were also used to identify any key features, potential adits or prospects, drainage patterns, depositional areas, and any potential cultural features. The topographic maps are included in Appendix B.

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2.5. Conceptual Site Exposure Models

The human health and ecological CSEMs were developed for completed pathway sites. They are presented within Appendix C and discussed in Sections 3.0 and 4.0. Figures C1-1 and C2-1 present the CSEMs for human receptors. Figures C1-2 and C2-2 present the CSEMs for ecological receptors. The CSEMs integrate information about the site to describe previous activities, source areas, release and transport mechanisms, and complete and incomplete exposure pathways to identified potentially exposed receptors under the current and reasonably anticipated future land and water uses.

For the PA, "site" refers to the sources, areas between sources, and areas that may have been contaminated as a result of migration from sources. The PA site boundaries are independent of property boundaries. Sources are areas where hazardous substances have been deposited, stored, disposed, or placed. For AML sites, sources include waste rock, mill tailings deposits, and soils that have become contaminated due to chemical or natural processes. Other common sources at these types of sites include dumps, spill areas, milling structures and the areas surrounding them, processing areas, storage areas, and related areas/structures. Air, surface water, and groundwater contaminated through migration are not considered sources, but are pathways. Pathways are the environmental media through which a hazardous substance threatens targets or receptors. Potentially exposed media of concern evaluated in the CSEMs include groundwater, surface and subsurface soil, surface water, sediment, and air. Each pathway is evaluated with respect to likelihood of release or exposure, receptors, and waste characteristics. Future data generated can be used to refine these preliminary CSEMs.

Based on the operational history, the environmental hazards considered in the evaluation focus on the mine tailings and processing areas. Contaminants of potential concern typically include various heavy metals, based on past site activities. Typical release and transport mechanisms include erosion, runoff, deposition, infiltration, leaching, and windborne suspension and deposition of particulates.

2.6. Site Evaluation Factors

The information collected during the PA was compiled and used to develop recommendations for the sites, including the need for additional CERCLA evaluation. The PA evaluation include the following factors:

• Potential contaminants of concern and waste characteristics,

• Potentially impacted media (soil/sediment, surface water, groundwater, and air),

• Likely receptors, including Wichita Mountains NWR workers, visitors, and ecological receptors, and

• Complete exposure pathways and likelihood of release.

Recommendations and conclusions for the 2 AML sites at Wichita Mountains NWR evaluated during the PA are presented in Section 5.

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3. BONANZA/COPPER EAGLE MINE (SITE #1)

The PA site reconnaissance of the Bonanza/Copper Eagle Mine site was conducted on October 18, 2023. Field Notes are included in Appendix D. Photographs showing site features and current environmental conditions are presented in Appendix E. Figure 4-1 shows the topographic features in the vicinity of the site and indicates the location of the mine shaft. Site features are depicted on Figure 4-2 and include:

• Mine shaft

• Mine waste rock

• Location of suspected rail system

• Suspected location of former smelter and smelter stack, and

• Location of perennial stream.

The historical photograph taken in approximately 1906 of the Bonanza Mine is included below (Wilson, 1989). Within the photograph, it appears that the site formerly contained a rail line system/tramway that led from the mine shaft and waste rock area, downgradient to an erected brick smelter and smelter stack. Discarded piles of rock were then seen surrounding the smelter.

Operations appeared to be led by four individuals. According to the reference of the photo, this smelter was the last one erected in the Wichita

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Mountains and was built at the head of Fawn Creek Canyon, near Elk Mountain. Miners T. E. Cook and his son recovered a slug of gold the size of a 0.38-caliber bullet from the ore (Wilson, 1989).

3.1. Site Location and Description

Bonanza/Copper Eagle Mine is located within Comanche County, north of Indiahoma, OK, at Latitude 34.716111, Longitude -98.720806 and sits at an elevation of approximately 1,825 feet amsl (Hudson, 2023). The site is located south of Highway 49 and west of NW Indiahoma Road and just south of Elk Mountain that is designated as Wichita Mountains Wilderness. The site is accessed via the Fawn Creek Trail that begins at the Fawn Creek Campground. The route along Fawn Creek Trail to the site is an approximately 0.8-mile hike to the south then to the west along Fawn Creek (Figure 4-1).

During the site visit (October 2023), it was observed to contain a vertical mine shaft that is bordered by a built-up stone foundation wall. The shaft is surrounded by an approximate 5,500-square foot (SF) area of extruded mine waste rock. The surrounding area was generally covered by sparse vegetation and small boulders. No other historical remnants of the site are present;

however, further downgradient from the shaft along the inferred rail line, a large boulder was viewed, which marked the halfway point of the rail line (34.716192, -98.720083). The path was continued downgradient and led to a moderately vegetated flat area along Fawn Creek. Within the flat area, some piles of gravels were viewed, but they were more heavily vegetated than the surrounding area and generally difficult to interpret. Along with the gravels, PE also observed the presence of 3 half sized brick fragments along with gravel sized pieces of slag-like material strewn on the ground. Located upgradient to the south of the flat area, PE observed a 5’x5’ round flat bedrock surface (34.716225, -98.719483). The surface was inferred to be the platform that supported the smelter stack seen in the historical photograph.

3.2. Operational History and Waste Characteristics

According to historical mine records and references, the mine operated from 1904 to 1906, and the smelter was built in 1906. This site was also identified as the Bonanza/Copper Eagle as well as Parker Brothers. In 1904, the mine shaft was estimated to be 56 feet deep; however, it was intended to go to 125 feet (Wilson, 1989).

Reportedly, the smelter at Bonanza Mine was the sixth one constructed in the Wichita Mountains in the early 1900’s. It was constructed by T.E. Cook and operated by the Bonanza Mining Company (Wilson, 1989).

According to historical aerial photographs reviewed from 1953 to 2019, neither the mine shaft, mine waste rock nor any mining related indicators are depicted on any of the photographs provided.

According to historical topographic maps reviewed from 1937 to 1991 and 2012 to 2022, neither the Bonanza site nor any mining related indicators are depicted on any of the maps. Fawn Creek is the main feature depicted in the vicinity of the site. In the topographic map from 1997, the Bonanza Mine shaft is identified to the south head of Fawn Creek, near the head of the creek. No other features are depicted in relation to the mine site.

The only remaining evident waste at the site consists of the extruded mine waste rock surrounding the mine shaft and remnants of discarded pieces of brick and small bits of slag material from the smelter. The waste rock consists primarily of coarse gravel sized particles that

Page | 12 are generally reddish tan in color. The slag material found appeared to be a dark gray to black in color and had a pumice-like texture.

3.3. Exposure Pathways

3.3.1. Geology and Hydrogeology

Geological Setting The Bonanza/Copper Eagle Mine site is situated within the Wichita Mountains near Elk Mountain, which consists of Quanah Granite of the Wichita Granite Group. The granite consists of Cambrian age igneous rocks that contain various textures representing multiple intrusions (Figure 3).

Groundwater As previously mentioned, the Refuge is located on three different aquifers. The Post Oak Aquifer is the closest aquifer to the site and is located within bedrock. The depth to groundwater is not known at the site, but it is likely found in alluvium of Quaternary age recharged by precipitation and percolation of runoff from the surrounding mountains.

Groundwater flow direction in the vicinity of the site is assumed to follow surface water flow, which is to the east. The mine shaft identified onsite is approximately 30 feet in depth and water was estimated at 10 feet below ground surface during the site visit; however, this is more likely to be surface flow per the surrounding hard rock geology.

Based upon federal database records research and a search for wells on the Oklahoma State Groundwater Well Record Search, there are 11 groundwater wells within a 4-mile radius of the site (Oklahoma, 2023). Two were located approximately 1.6-miles northeast and south, one of which was 170 feet below ground surface in depth. The remaining are located more than 3.5-miles west. No groundwater wells were identified downgradient from the site. Based on the lack of receptors downgradient from the site, the pathway for groundwater is considered to be incomplete at this time.

3.3.2. Surface Water

During wetter months of the year, winter and spring, surface water at the site would likely be present within Fawn Creek. During the site reconnaissance visit in , no water was observed within the creek. Fawn Creek drains downgradient to the east before bending to the north and intersecting with French Lake. Fawn Creek is classified as a freshwater riverine that is semi-permanently flooded. Surface water is reported to persist throughout the growing season in most years. French Lake is classified as a freshwater lake and is designated as permanently flooded based on it being created or modified by a man-made barrier or dam.

Inflow of surface water at the site is generated from frequent precipitation events and begins upgradient from the site. Based on the proximity of the site to Fawn Creek, potential impact of surface water at or downgradient from the site is considered likely.

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3.3.3. Soil, Sediment, Air

The site is located within a canyon which supports Fawn Creek. The canyon is bounded by large granite outcrops and escarpments. Small boulders and large cobbles surround the creek and hillside slopes leading up to the mine shaft area. The surface of the area generally is covered by thin prairie grasses, contains small to large sized bushes, and small trees.

Direct access to surface soil or sediment is available; however, was only noted in occasional areas of exposed surface material and within the drainage of Fawn Creek. The material consisted of fine-grained materials, a few rounded pebbles, and many more cobbles.

The thickness of the overlying sediments at the site is not known; according to EDR, soil thickness is estimated to extend 79 inches below ground surface (EDR, 2023c, Appendix A).

The sediment is classified as the Brico Very Cobbley Loam and is well drained.

Based on the identified Fawn Creek Trail leading to the site, the site can be easily accessed by Refuge visitors from the Fawn Creek Campground or Refuge Staff. Based on the presence of the mine waste rock and suspected smelter foundation area, impact to surface soil, sediment, and air is considered likely.

3.4. Pathway and Environmental Hazard Assessment

Bonanza/Copper Eagle Mine is located in a designated wilderness, however, based on the presence of the Fawn Creek Trail, the site is likely visited by approximately 20 people per year.

Refuge staff and contractors may also visit and work at the site. However, it is unlikely that these visitors, staff, and contractors spend any significant time at this site from year to year. Potentially endangered or threatened species or sensitive environments that have been identified in the vicinity of the site and may occur in the area include the proposed endangered Tricolored Bat (Perimyotis subflavus), the endangered Whooping Crane (Grus americana), the threatened Rufa Red Knot (Calidris canutus rufa) and Piping Plover (Charadrius melodus), and the candidate Monarch Butterfly (Danaus plexippus). Bald Eagles (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) and Golden Eagles (Aquila chrysaetos) are protected by the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection act and the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. It is suspected that these eagles would most likely occupy the area during January.

Exposure to surface soil, sediment, surface water, and air are considered to represent complete exposure pathways for human and ecological receptors from the former smelting operations that reportedly occurred at the site that may have contributed to residual contamination in this area.

This area has the potential to become eroded by wind, from surface water runoff, with direct infiltration to the ground. Subsurface soil is not considered to represent a complete pathway based on the inaccessibility of the material and restriction to groundwater. In addition, there are no receptors to groundwater downgradient from the site; therefore, the human exposure pathway to groundwater is not complete.

A summation of the human and ecological CSEMs for the site are presented in Figure C1-1 and C1-2.

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3.5. Summary of Conclusions and Recommendations

PE recommends additional site characterization to obtain soil and sediment samples to be analyzed for mercury and other heavy metals from the former smelter area and from Fawn Creek to determine whether concentrations of these metals exist from historical mine related impacts that could have resulted in a release into the environment.

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4. BLUE BEAVER CREEK SMELTER (SITE #2)

The PA site reconnaissance of the Blue Beaver Creek Smelter site was conducted on October 17, 2023. Field Notes are included in Appendix D. Photographs showing site features and current environmental conditions are presented in Appendix E. Figure 4-1 shows the topographic features in the vicinity of the site and indicates the location of the smelter foundation. Site features are depicted on Figure 4-2 and include:

• Smelter foundation

• Stone walls, and

• Location of intermittent stream.

4.1. Site Location and Description

Blue Beaver Creek Smelter site is located within Comanche County, north of Cache, OK, at Latitude 34.741000, Longitude -98.619972 and sits at an elevation of approximately 1,686 feet amsl. The site is located northwest of Highway 49/155, west of the Holy City. The site is accessed an approximately 0.9-mile hike to the west along the north side of Rusk Lake. The smelter is situated to the north of Blue Beaver Creek, just before the convergence into Lake Rush (Figure 4- 1).

The site was observed to contain a dilapidated brick smelter foundation that is 5’x5’ wide and 4’ tall. The foundation area surrounding the smelter was somewhat flat but contained a moderate slope to the south. The area was observed to be bordered by a built-up stone block wall near the northwest side of the area.

The surrounding area was generally covered by grassy vegetation. Leading up to the smelter from the southwest, the ground surface appeared generally covered by gravels, but also contained large gravel sized pieces of slag-like material. Located upgradient to the north of the site, a rectangular shaped topographical depression was observed that was inferred by Refuge staff to

Page | 16 be a historical prospect. No other historical signs of mining were observed during the reconnaissance.

4.2. Operational History and Waste Characteristics

Upon research of the site, there was no direct historical evidence that identified the location of this smelter. Refuge staff indicated that the only locations to their knowledge where smelters existed, were at the Blue Beaver Creek location and Bonanza/Copper Eagle Mine. Historical research records indicated that six smelters were actually constructed in the Wichita Mountains between 1901 and 1915. According to the records, the second smelter in the Refuge was identified as the Sam Remer smelter and associated with the Snake Lode Mine. Records indicate that the mine and smelter were located southwest of Mt. Sheridan, in similar proximity as the smelter (Site #2) located north of Blue Beaver Creek (Wilson, 1963). In 1904, reportedly 40 tons of ore were taken from the Snake Mine and smelted in the Same Remer smelter. The assay showed 80 ounces of silver as well as some copper and platinum were present. The smelter, however, reportedly soon broke down, and it was abandoned (Wilson, 1963).

According to historical aerial photographs reviewed from 1954 to 2019, neither the smelter site nor any mining related indicators are depicted on any of the photographs provided. The Blue Beaver Creek drainage and Lake Rush are the main two features in the vicinity of the site.

According to historical topographic maps reviewed from 1937 to 2022, neither the smelter site nor any mining related indicators are depicted on any of the maps provided. Blue Beaver Creek and Lake Rush are the main two natural features in the vicinity of the site.

The only remaining waste at the site consists of the dilapidated brick smelter foundation and remnants of discarded pieces of brick and small bits of slag material from the smelter. The slag material found appeared to be a dark gray to black in color and had a shiny molten metallic-like texture.

4.3. Exposure Pathways

4.3.1. Geology and Hydrogeology

Geological Setting Blue Beaver Creek Smelter is situated within the Wichita Mountains to the southwest of Mt.

Sheridan. The mountains consist of Quanah Granite of the Wichita Granite Group. The granite consists of Cambrian age igneous rocks that contain various textures representing multiple intrusions (Figure 3).

Groundwater As previously mentioned, the Refuge is located on three different aquifers. The Hennessey- Garber Aquifer is the closest aquifer to the site and is located within bedrock. The depth to groundwater is not known at the site, but it is likely found in alluvium of Quaternary age recharged by precipitation and percolation of runoff from the surrounding mountains and the nearby Lake Rush. Groundwater flow direction in the vicinity of the site is assumed to follow surface water flow, which is to the east.

Based upon federal database records research and a search for wells on the Oklahoma State Groundwater Well Record Search, there are 14 groundwater wells within a 4-mile radius of

Page | 17 the site (Oklahoma, 2023). One was located approximately 1.2-miles west-southwest, which was noted 200 feet below ground surface in depth. The remaining are located more than 2-miles to the north and south. No groundwater wells were identified downgradient from the site. Based on the lack of receptors downgradient from the site, the pathway for groundwater is incomplete.

4.3.2. Surface Water

During wetter months of the year, winter and spring, surface water at the site would likely be present within Blue Beaver Creek. During the site reconnaissance visit (October), no water was observed within the creek. Blue Beaver Creek drains downgradient to the east before intersecting with Lake Rush. The creek is classified as a freshwater riverine that is intermittently flooded and contains water flowing only part of the year. Surface water is reported to persist for extended periods of time, especially in the growing season, but is absent by the end of the growing season. Lake Rush is classified as a freshwater lake and is designated as permanently flooded based on it being created or modified by a man-made barrier or dam.

Inflow of surface water at the site is generated from frequent precipitation events and begins upgradient from the site. Based on the proximity of the site to Blue Beaver Creek and Lake Rush, potential impact of surface water at or downgradient from the site is considered likely.

4.3.3. Soil, Sediment, Air

The site is located adjacent to the Blue Beaver Creek drainage. The site is located on a slope located approximately 50 feet north of the creek. The surface of the area generally is covered by tall prairie grasses, contains small to large sized bushes, and small trees.

Direct access to surface soil or sediment is available; however, was only noted in occasional areas of exposed surface material. The material consisted of fine-grained materials, coarse grained gravels, and small cobbles.

The thickness of the overlying sediments at the site is not known; according to EDR, soil thickness is estimated to extend 79 inches below ground surface (Appendix A). The sediment is classified as the Brico Very Cobbley Loam and is well drained.

Based on the presence of the smelter foundation area, impact to surface soil, sediment, and air is considered likely.

4.4. Pathway and Environmental Hazard Assessment

Blue Beaver Creek Smelter is located in a remote area of the Refuge and requires a 0.9-mile unmarked hike along the north side of Lake Rush. The site is likely visited by fewer than 5 people per year; access to this site is not directly identified by signage or a trail. Refuge staff and contractors may also visit and work at the site. However, visitors, staff, and/or contractors would likely not spend significant amounts of time here from year to year. Potentially endangered or threatened species or sensitive environments that have been identified in the vicinity of the site

Page | 18 and may occur in the area include the proposed endangered Tricolored Bat (Perimyotis subflavus), the endangered Whooping Crane (Grus americana), the threatened Rufa Red Knot (Calidris canutus rufa) and Piping Plover (Charadrius melodus), and the candidate Monarch Butterfly (Danaus plexippus). Bald Eagles (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) and Golden Eagles (Aquila chrysaetos) are protected by the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection act and the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. It is suspected that these eagles would most likely occupy the area during January.

Exposure to surface soil, sediment, surface water, and air are considered to represent complete exposure pathways for human and ecological receptors from the former smelting operations that reportedly occurred at the site that may have contributed to residual contamination in this area.

This area has the potential to become eroded by wind, from surface water runoff, and direct infiltration to the ground. Subsurface soil is not considered to represent a complete pathway based on the inaccessibility of the material and restriction to groundwater. In addition, there are no receptors to groundwater downgradient from the site; therefore, the human exposure pathway to groundwater is not complete.

A summation of the human and ecological CSEMs for the site are presented in Figure C2-1 and C2-2.

4.5. Summary of Conclusions and Recommendations

PE recommends additional site characterization to obtain soil and sediment samples to be analyzed for mercury and other heavy metals from the former smelter area and from Blue Beaver Creek and Lake Rush to determine whether concentrations of these metals exist from historical mine related impacts that could have resulted in a release into the environment.

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5. CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

PE assessed 2 AML sites to determine whether a release to the environment was likely to have occurred and if the release had the potential to pose a risk to human health or the environment.

AML sites likely contain residual metals contaminants concentrated around each of the historical smelter operations due to the smelting processes. At the 2 AML sites assessed in this PA Report, the preliminary contaminants of concern are metals, especially mercury.

PE developed a CSEM for each site demonstrating complete or potentially complete exposure pathways to humans and ecological receptors to assess groundwater, surface water, soil, sediment, and air. The human health and ecological CSEMs are presented within Sections 3.0 to

4.0. Of the sites evaluated, each site demonstrated complete or potentially complete pathways.

Site specific CSEMs are presented as Figure C1-1 and C2-1 for human receptors and Figure C1-2 and C2-2 for ecological receptors. The CSEMs integrate information about the site to describe potential source areas, release and transport mechanisms, and complete and incomplete exposure pathways.

The CSEM result informs USFWS resource managers that the pathway from the source, through all potentially impacted media, to human and/or ecological receptors is:

• Complete, meaning receptors’ exposure to population to contaminated media is likely;

• Potentially Complete, but minor, meaning receptors’ exposure to is unlikely or very limited; or

• Incomplete, meaning receptors’ exposure to contaminated media is unlikely.

Complete exposure pathways for surface soil, sediment, air, and surface water were considered to exist at each of the 2 AML sites within this study. Refer to the CSEMs (presented as Figures C1- 1 and C2-1 for human receptors and Figures C1-2 and C2-2 for ecological receptors) for additional information on these pathways, potential source areas, and release and transport mechanisms.

For the two AML sites, Bonanza/Copper Eagle Mine and Blue Beaver Creek Smelter, further action is recommended. PE recommends that Sls be conducted to include: 1) collect surface soil samples from on-site waste materials (mine waste rock, smelter surface area); and 2) collect surface soil, sediment, and surface water (if present) from on site (including one or more background areas, random locations on site, and from Blue Beaver Creek, Lake Rush, and Fawn Creek).

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