2013-09-18_PERMIT FILE - M2013064 (9)

Home Browse Search

Exhibit I & J — Soils & Vegetation Information detachment and transportation in order to occur. Running water, wind, and raindrop impact are the main forces of erosion acting upon the soil. The use of a sterile hybrid live cover crop will aid in the stabilization of the soil by allowing a quick vegetative cover to become established in advance of the native grasses. The hybrid will also serve as an aid to reduce competition resulting from the establishment and growth of unwanted pioneer species (weeds) on disturbed ground. The attending reclamation seed mixture has a provision for the use of a sterile hybrid in lieu of mulch. Mulch, even when crimped with specialized equipment, is subject to being blown off the property, or reduced to an ineffective stubble. Often, it has been observed to intercept rainfall where it quickly evaporates from the stubble surface, limiting the benefits of light precipitation by preventing infiltration and percolation of moisture to the root zone. The hybrid on the other hand will establish quickly but since it is sterile will not continue to compete with the emerging native grasses. After two to three years it will begin to die out just as the native grasses emerge and improve their dominance over the revegetated areas. The applied organics will aid in the restructuring of the new soils by increasing the moisture and fertility holding capacity of the upper profile while simultaneously facilitating root development of the emerging grasses. As the roots of the emerging grasses develop and mature over time, the resulting root mass will serve to add to the base percent organic matter content of the new soils over time, thereby increasing the potential for long term survival and spread of the established grasses. Soil testing, below, may occur on the new soils to better gauge the need or success of any applied organic soil amendments respective of the resulting vegetative cover. The addition of fertilizer may also aid in the establishment, growth and survival of the emerging grasses. Fertilizer may be applied to the seeded areas at rates determined from soil tests of the reapplied soils. To this end, soils may be sampled as needed. Sampling will utilize a hand auger and approved NRCS soil sample bags, and utilizing recommended procedures. Any soil testing will be conducted by the CSU Soil Laboratory in Ft. Collins, Colorado. The tests will be used to monitor soil quality and suitability of any amendments. WEED MANAGEMENT PLAN: Weed control at the site will utilize non- chemical means, unless, due to weed morphology, or other factors, circumstance require application of an approved herbicide. If chemical weed control is utilized, it will be conducted in compliance with manufacturer's recommendations and in conformance with applicable federal, state, or local laws. Where possible, pre- emergent weed control chemicals will be utilized. Chemical application will be conducted or supervised by a qualified operator. Varra Companies, Inc. Varra- Coulson Resource Project 5 OMLR 112 Permit Application 8 August 2013