February 15, 2024
Contact: Kerry Neil, Wastewater Permits Bureau Chief, kerry.neil@deq.idaho.gov
IDAHO COUNTY – The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) seeks comment on a notice of intent to terminate the coverage of McKinley Mine (IDR05J00C) under the 2021 Idaho Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (IPDES) Multi-Sector General Permit for Industrial Storm Water Discharges Associated with Industrial Activity (IDR050000) (MSGP).
The facility is located approximately 10 miles north of Riggins in Idaho County, Idaho. Ivan Kobayashi, president of Shinichi Murayama, submitted a notice of intent for coverage for the McKinley Mine property for activities under Sector G2 – Iron Ores; Copper Ores; Lead and Zinc Ores; Gold and Silver Ores; Ferroalloy Ores, Except Vanadium; Metal Mining Services; Miscellaneous Metal Ores on May 21, 2021. Coverage was issued and effective on June 17, 2021.
DEQ was notified on January 2, 2023, that the property was no longer owned or operated by Shinichi Murayama. After the death of the facility owner and president, the real property associated with the McKinley Mine was subject to foreclosure hearings in the Second Judicial District Court in Idaho County. A copy of judgement was filed in the court on February 1, 2023, which released the real property to sheriff sale. In accordance with the “Rules Regulating the Idaho Pollutant Discharge Elimination System Program” (IDAPA 58.01.25.203), DEQ is providing notice of intent to terminate MSGP coverage for McKinley Mine (IDR05J00C) issued to Shinichi Murayama due to the failure to modify the notice of intent within 30 days of applicable changes, and to submit a notice of termination or documentation of transfer in accordance with the MSGP.
Written comments on the notice of termination will be accepted through March 16, 2024 at 5:00 p.m., MST. A public meeting may be held, if requested in writing, by February 29, 2024. Comments should address water quality considerations and include supporting materials where available. Comments should also reference the McKinley Mine and permit number (IDR05J00C).
Comments, requests, and questions regarding this process should be directed to Kerry Neil electronically on DEQ’s Public Comment Opportunities page or by mail or email:
Kerry Neil
Surface and Wastewater Division
1410 N. Hilton St.
Boise, ID 83706
kerry.neil@deq.idaho.gov