2015-04-02_PERMIT FILE - M2015017 (4)

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experience shows that some initial weed cover (especially non - noxious variety) in the first year following retopsoiling is beneficial to the reclamation effort in non - irrigated areas. Weeds tend to provide shade for new grasses, are a means of holding snow on the seedbed longer and protect it from wind and water erosion until the planted species have taken hold. As lands are reclaimed, the Annual Reports submitted to the DRMS will evaluate any weed locations on the property and what measures should be taken to remediate the issue. 8. Revegetation Success Criteria Since a significant portion of the area contains pre -law disturbance without topsoil salvage, it is suggested that revegetation on the reclaimed area should be deemed successful when the perennial vegetation in this area is self - sustaining and adequate to control erosion. The topsoil replacement procedures and the revegetation plan outlined earlier should be more than adequate to achieve this goal. The majority of the site has been reclaimed using standard procedures for restoring rangeland use although the true post - mining land use is commercial, open space and residential. Due to the efforts of importing topsoil and using generated fines from the plant operations, the retopsoiling of the land will provide much better reclamation than the pre - permit condition where considerable areas were left with no grading, no topsoil and many gravel piles from old hydraulic mining operations. The revegetated area will be monitored for success of reclamation until accepted by the Division.If revegetation failures occur prior to release, an analysis of the site will be made and the area will be revegetated again as necessary. 9. Monitoring Reclamation Success Monitoring the reclamation on an ongoing basis will allow minor revisions to assure successful reclamation. The operator plans to use the local NRCS office in Park County to assist in determining the ability of the reclaimed land to control erosion. If minor changes or modifications are needed to the seeding and reclamation plan, revision plans will be submitted to the Division as required. It is hoped Sullivan Aggregate Pit March 2015 E -4