5.5. PCSR 02-13-2007 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Tiller Corporation Elk River and Livonia Quarries Noise Assessment . 5.0 SUMMARY OF FINDINGS AND RECOMMENDATIONS 5.1. Sound Levels Associated with 2006 Operations 5.1.1. Livonia Mining Operation Sound levels were monitored near the Livonia Mining Operation and Elk River Wash Plant Facility during mining operations. The monitored sound level at the closest receptor to the Livonia operation (Spencer residence) was generally below 50 dBA, even though the sound level was dominated by noise from traffic on TH 169. Thus, mining operations in 2006 complied with both daytime (L50 60 dBA) and nighttime (L50 50 dBA) state noise standards. The observed level at the northeast corner of the mining operation property was just under 65 dBA during mining operation but was just over 67 dBA after mining shutdown. Thus, noise from mining did not appear to have any significant impact at the northeast corner of the property. 5.1.2. Elk River Mining Operation No readings were taken at the Elk River Mining Operation boundary during operation although a reading taken following (partial) shutdown when some mobile equipment was still operating registered as high as 48 dBA. The monitoring site had some direct exposure to TH 169 which contributed to the ambient level at this location. . 5.1.3. Elk River Wash Plant Facility Sound levels on the property line west of the Elk River Wash Plant were as high as 45 dBA during mining operation and 37 dBA after shutdown, suggesting that mining activity increased the level by about 8 dBA. However, the level was below the nighttime L50 50 dBA standard, and well below the daytime L50 60 dBA standard. 5.2. Estimated Sound Levels Associated with 2007 Operations 5.2.1. Livonia Mining Operation At the Livonia Mining Operation, the primary crusher is the loudest piece of equipment. It will remain in essentially the same location, so that 2007 levels will be similar to those in 2006. As noted above, mining activity will have limited impact on the Spencer residence and is estimated to be in compliance with the nighttime and daytime noise standards. 5.2.2. Elk River Mining Operation The sound level associated with the crushing complex at the Elk River Mining Operation will be higher than in 2006 since the equipment will be moved closer to the homes south of the pit. A berm with a peak elevation of 1110 feet will be constructed south of the pit to help reduce sound levels at the nearest homes. A sound level of 50 dBA is estimated at the nearest home and just under 50 dBA at another home. A small increase in the height of the berm could provide additional shielding and allow mining to continue during nighttime hours in compliance with the state noise standard. . David Braslau Associates, Inc. Page 19