2013-10-21_INSPECTION - M2003002

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PERMIT #: M- 2003 -002 INSPECTOR'S INITIALS: TC1 INSPECTION DATE: March 13, 2013 OBSERVATIONS This inspection was initiated by an application for succession of operator (SO). The focus of this inspection was to assess the operation status and determine what, if any activities might have an impact of the financial warranty liability. Mr. Doug Branch represented the new Operator (HCR High Country Repair). The Ghost River Gravel Pit is a sand and gravel operation located in Huerfano County, approximately 4 miles east of I -25 (Exit 64) off County Road 110. Inspection: A sign with the mine reclamation permit number was prominently displayed near the entrance (see Photo 1). The sign should also include: 1. The name of the Operator, and 2. A statement that "a reclamation permit for the operation has been issued by the Colorado Mined Land Reclamation Board ". It should be noted that the Operator's name is on a different sign some distance away from the permit no. sign (see Photo 2). A sample permit sign is included as requested by the operator. The entire site was walked with Mr. Branch. T -posts are in place to mark the permit boundary corners (see Photos 3 and 4). The site was not active at the time of the inspection, however a front end loader was observed on site between several stockpiles of various sized materials (see Photo 5). Mr. Branch explained that a contractor brings their own crusher on site to process material. The Operator was in the process of performing some backfilling in the south end of the pit. This Inspector advised the Operator to be sure to save enough material to slope the highwalls to 3H:1 V or flatter as required by the approved reclamation plan. The top soil was being salvaged and stored on the uphill side of the excavation (see Photo 6). The Operator was also advised to clean up and consolidate the overburden and topsoil stockpiles, making sure to segregate the topsoil. No exposed groundwater was observed. A small amount of water resulting from melted snow was observed on the pit floor (see Photo 6). No noxious weeds were observed. File Review: • The previous inspection was performed on April 16, 2010. One problem was cited and resolved. • The total permitted area is 9.9 acres. • Annual fees and reports are up to date through 2013. • The existing bond is a $19,112. Mr. Branch explained that the bond transferred with the permit. This was verified by the Division. The reclamation cost was evaluated by this Inspector and found to be adequate. Current Stipulations: None. Recommendations: 1. The Division recommends the financial warranty liability remain $19,112. 2. The Operator should place the two existing signs next to each other and add possibly a third sign to state "a reclamation permit for the operation has been issued by the MLRB" or replace the permit no. sign with one sign that has all three required items. Page 2 of 4