_INSPECTION - C1981012 (10) - Laserfiche WebLink

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July 23, 2013 C-1981-012/New Elk Mine LDS A brief visual inspection of the slopes above from the clean water diversion ditch suggested that only approximately a quarter of the slopes held any significant topsoil. Depths were variable and difficult to assess. The section of the permit that deals with topsoil stripping was last updated in 1997 and estimates that 6-12 inches of topsoil will be recovered. This section is under review in TR68. ROADS —Rule 4.03 Construction 4.03.1(3)/4.03.2(3); Drainage 4.03.1(4)/4.03.2(4); Surfacing and Maintenance4.03.1(5)and (6)/4.03.2(5) and(6); Reclamation 4.03.1(7)/4.03.2(7): Roads on the mine site were generally in a good state of repair,however the road up to the water tanks will need to be regraded when conditions allow. REVEGETATION—Rule 4.15 Vegetative Cover; Timing: Vegetation looked very healthy around the site.Weeds were not widespread. Common mullein, 1Verbascum thapsus, a list C species,was observed at some of the less well-travelled areas of the site (for example,near the river at the western end of the site, and along the upland diversion ditches). Houndstongue, Cynoglossum officinale, a list B species,was observed at the second Apache Canyon airshaft. The plant was uprooted during the inspection,by Mr Thompson. The seasonal spraying appears to have been very effective at controlling weeds and should be continued. SIGNS AND MARKERS —Rule 4.02: Mine ID signs are in varied states. Some of the old signs have been replaced,however the new signs do not show the phone number for the Division. Rule 4.02 discusses signs and markers. In particular: • 4.02.1(2)Signs and markers shall be of uniform design throughout the operation that can easily be seen and read • 4.02.2(1)Identification signs shall be displayed at each entrance to the permit area from public roads (This includes,but is not limited to,the small road that access pond 8 from the highway, and the gate that gives access to the topsoil SAE near to the RDA conveyor, as well as the Apache Canyon airshafts and the Jansen Load- out) • 4.02.2(2)Signs shall show the name address, and telephone number of the person who conducts the surface coal mining operations and the identifying number of the current permit authorizing mining activities Rule 43 0.1 discusses temporary cessation, in particular: • 4.30.1(3) -As soon as a temporary cessation extends beyond 30 days, the operator shall modify the mine identification sign to include the name, address, and telephone number of the Division Number of Partial Inspection this Fiscal Year: 0 Number of Complete Inspections this Fiscal Year: 1 Page 11 of 29