2014-08-06_REVISION - C1981044 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Jerry Nettleton, MCM Page 11 August 6, 2014 provides unconnected information and the multiple colors and layers create problems in reading the map. Please update the noxious weed management plan to include more detail regarding how MCM performs their noxious weed mapping and tracking programs at the Williams Fork Mines and the Williams Fork Strip Pit, including whether point or area features are mapped, what constitutes a weed patch for mapping purposes, etc. Please add a commitment to the permit to include a separate weed tracking map in the Annual Reclamation Report. This map should show the weed species encountered, their location, the method of treatment and the initial year they were seen at that location. The weed tracking layers can then he removed from the Reclamation and Building Demolition Map currently included in the ARR (although this map, with the reclamation information, will need to remain). a. MCM Response: The specific Permit text discussion for the Noxious Weed Management Plan has been reviewed and revised, as appropriate to address the CDRMS's expressed concerns. MCM completes an annual noxious weed assessment, and then ties weed control activities during the year to the results of that assessment. Spraying typically takes place during spring and fall, targeting different weed species. Weed mapping has been included on the Reclamation and Building Demolition Map for convenience, and so that all relevant maintenance and reclamation information is provided in a consistent, concise format. MCM will work with the CDRMS to either modify this map to address the CDRMS's concerns or will create a separate map. Copies of the revised Permit discussion accompany these responses for replacement in the PAP. b. DRMS Response: MCM added Houndstongue to the list of species to be treated in the permit. The Division reviewed the 2013 Annual Reclamation Report submitted by MCM and it appears weed species and control methods are discussed in the narrative of the report. The Reclamation and Building Demolition Map submitted with the report delineates areas where specific herbicides were used but does not indicate where specific species are encountered. Revised page 5.05 -32.1 indicates the MCM maintains a working weed program map and records both observed weed occurrences by weed species, location, and extent of infestations; and treatment activities. Since this information exists, it should be added to the Reclamation and Building Demolition Map submitted in the Annual Reclamation Report. c. MCM Response #2: MCM documents weed control activities in both the text and on a map in the Annual Reclamation Report. Generally, the areas delineated may include multiple weed species, therefore specific locations are not delineated for individual species. MCM typically sprays in the spring for whitetop, houndstongue, knapweed, and toadflax (if present), and in the fall for thistle and any of the other species which remain after the spring weed control efforts. The exception to this approach is tamarisk, which only occurs in certain areas and requires a separate, focused control effort. When tamarisk control activities occur, they are delineated separately in the ARR.