2014-10-21_INSPECTION - M2002003

Home Browse Search

PERMIT #: M- 2002 -003 INSPECTOR'S INITIALS: MAC INSPECTION DATE: August 28, 2014 OBSERVATIONS The inspection was conducted by Michael Cunningham of the Division of Reclamation, Mining and Safety (Division). Joe Dorris was present on behalf of Glacier Peak Art, Gems, & Minerals. The Topaz Mt. Gem Mine is located approximately 10 miles northwest of Lake George at 2310 Matukat Rd. (F.S. Rd. 112), in the Pike and San Isabel National Forest. The primary commodity is gemstones, primarily topaz, and the secondary commodity is aggregate. The site is permitted for 4.5 acres and the post- mining land use is rangeland. The site is operated intermittently, generally less than 180 days per year due to site accessibility. The permit sign was posted at the site entrance and the boundary of the affected area was clearly delineated as required by Rule 3.1.12. Mining is taking place along the eastern permit boundary. The Operator utilizes both hand tools and mechanized equipment to conduct mining; no equipment was on site at the time of the inspection. The topsoil has been salvaged and stockpiled around the perimeter of the excavation. The onsite processing consists of running the material through a grizzly and a mechanized shaker. The Operator has installed several earthen berms along the west and south sides of the disturbed area. The berms direct stormwater runoff to a small sump where it infiltrates back into the ground. The Division did not see any signs of erosion and did not observe any sediment leaving the site. The Operator has affected approximately 2 acres of the 4.5 acres which are permitted. The Division currently holds a financial warranty in the amount of $8,447.00. The last financial warranty increase occurred in 2006. As a part of this inspection, the Division has evaluated the existing financial warranty and has determined that it remains adequate to complete reclamation at the site. This concluded the inspection. Page 2 of 3