2014-07-28_PERMIT FILE - P2014014 (2)

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Section IV OPERATION AND RECLAMATION MEASURES Item No. 3. Describe the estimated topsoil depth and how topsoil will be salvaged, stockpiled and redistributed for the re-establishment of vegetation. Specify approximate topsoil redistribution depth The White River Field Office reclamation coordinator will be notified via email or by phone 24 hours before beginning any BLM-approved construction-related activities, regardless of size,that result in disturbance of surface soils. Handling of topsoil during production operations involves several different activities. These activities include removing vegetation,topsoil stripping, stockpiling, and replacing topsoil onto the areas to be ultimately reclaimed. Before construction or any production activities,the vegetation in the area must be cleared and the soil grubbed to a depth of 1 foot. If less than 1 foot of soil is present,the entire soil present should be grubbed. The topsoil will then be removed to the extent possible. Suitable topsoil materials will be removed from areas that are being stripped and will be directly applied to well sites or other disturbed areas undergoing interim reclamation. Limitations that will influence the use of this technique include such factors as the haul distance and sequencing of reclamation. The potential benefits of this reclamation technique are well documented and include maintained topsoil fertility and preserved seed source. Reclamation is often more successful when topsoil is directly applied instead of stockpiled. Excess salvaged topsoil will be placed in shallow stockpiles adjacent to construction zones and operational facilities for future reclamation. Surfaces of topsoil stockpiles will be stabilized and protected from wind and water erosion by seeding as soon as possible in the spring or fall. The total seeding rate will be 12 to 15 pounds of pure live seed (PLS) per acre for a drilled rate, and 24 to 30 pounds per acre for a broadcasted rate. An established grass and forb cover will be adequate to protect topsoil stockpiles from erosion until the soil is needed for reclamation. In cases where the topsoil handling sequencing does not allow stabilization by vegetation methods, topsoil stockpiles may be stabilized by applying a chemical dust suppressant. Topsoil will be spread as evenly as possible over the graded surfaces. After production activities are completed and the area is graded, the topsoil will be taken from the stockpiles and spread as evenly as practicable over the disturbed area, restoring pre-construction contours and drainage patterns. This area will then be prepared for seeding. Fertilizer The use of a sufficient topsoil material that is high in organic matter and contains the naturally occurring microorganism populations and necessary trace elements required for revegetation is more important than applying fertilizers. However, soils that are stored for even relatively short periods of time lose their fertility and may need to be amended with fertilizers. Soil fertility in the project area appears to be adequate for reclamation. Daub &Associates, Inc. Page 14 of 17 NSHI RD&D DRMS NOI 2014