2014-03-05_REVISION - M2006042 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Exhibit E - Reclamation Plan Final grading will be such that the topography is appropriate to the reclaimed use of the property, i.e., as dryland pasture. Any slopes created will be graded 3h: I more or less. The floor of the mine will have a gentle slope to the south so it is consistent with existing grades on the site. The Reclamation Plan Map shows how we think the area will look when it is reclaimed. As mining occurs, stockpiles will be located around the inner perimeter of the permit area to minimize the distance needed to push and reclaim the area. Once mining is complete the area will be shaped, graded and'stockpiled topsoil will be re- applied A fertilizer mix of 10 tons manure / acre will be spread on the disturbed area and tilled in. The area will be seeded with the recommended seed mixture. The area will then be mulched using clean straw. The straw mulch will be crimped to prevent erosion. Seeding will occur between November and April, before first frost in the fall or after last frost in the spring. The seed will be drilled to insure maximum germination and most rapid cover establishment. The seeding mix and species of grasses for the area are shown in the NRCS recommendation. Oats may be used in the mix to reduce the amount of weed cover and still give the benefit of creating a quick vegetative cover until the grasses are established. We also expect to see a natural invasion of forbs and woody plants from surrounding areas. Only inaccessible areas (if any) will be broadcast seeded If the seed is broadcast, the seed rates will be doubled. No trees or shrubs will be planted on the mine area. Re- vegetation will be carried out to establish a diverse, effective, and long - lasting vegetative cover that is capable of self - regeneration, without continued dependence upon irrigation, soil amendments, or fertilizers. The plan is to create a vegetative cover that is at least equal in extent to the cover of the natural vegetation before mining. The reclaimed area will not be grazed during the first two years after seeding is re- established. This may require temporary fencing. After the second growing season, the site will be assessed for success of the re- vegetation. If the assessment shows additional work is needed, it will be done that fall. Weed control will be implemented prior to and during re- vegetation activities. This does not mean we will attempt to kill all weeds, since some provide a natural ground cover and shade for emerging grass. We will concentrate on controlling the noxious weeds on the reclaimed area, following normal NRCS recommendations if a problem occurs. Any internal haul roads used during the life of the mine will be reclaimed.