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The portions of RS -5 which was seeded in 2010 are doing excellent with good diversity. <br />The remainder was comparable to that of other sites seeded in 2012. <br />Erosion/sedimentation was not an issue on any of the sites. The surface roughness created <br />during reclamation adequately retained precipitation and sediment on the sites. <br />2002 Reclamation <br />Perennial vegetation is now well established on these areas. They are stable and we expect <br />only slow changes. Cheatgrass is typically present on portions of these areas but is less <br />prevalent than on adjacent undisturbed lands. <br />Other Observations <br />Concerns were previously expressed over the potential for forage kochia spreading and <br />becoming more aggressive than desired. Observations in 2014 indicate that this species <br />continues to behaving well. It is showing little signs of spreading beyond the intended sites <br />and does not appear to be forcing other perennial vegetation out. It is, however, competing <br />well with cheatgrass and has become established on Refuse Pit #1 where cheatgrass has <br />been a long term problem. It has also established well on the very severe south - facing <br />slopes at the East Portal area. <br />Recommendations <br />The reclaimed areas appear hydrologically stable and generally in good condition. <br />Cheatgrass continues to be a cyclical problem impacting long term vegetation success at <br />many of the sites. Further investigation into means for long term control of cheatgrass is <br />warranted not only for this mine site but for many lands throughout the and West. <br />Anticipated Reclamation Activities for 2015 <br />We anticipate drilling and reclaiming several exploration holes in 2015. There will also be <br />some interim reclamation for other drill sites planned during the year. The next series of <br />nitrogen injection hole and degas site reclamation is not scheduled until 2016. <br />