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24. As required by Rule 6.4.5(2)(e), please provide an estimate of the periods of time <br />which will be required for the various phases of reclamation. <br />RESPONSE: Current phase 1 mining areas are delineated in Exhibit F.2 — "Phasing <br />Map For Future Permitting And Reclamation". There are three (3) distinct areas <br />that total 4.19 acres. Each area has been opened up to produce three diverse <br />colors of sandstone. The operator/owner has developed a phasing plan that will <br />reference the well-defined parcels shown on the "phasing map" to help allocate <br />the active phases versus future phases over the life span of the mine. Each active <br />phase will have the committed resources to properly reclaim the individual bench <br />cuts immediately following the mined phase. The opening of each phase 1 mining <br />area will be reliant on a pre -approved bond amount posted with the Division of <br />Reclamation, Mining and Safety. A "Mining Operation Phasing" statement has also <br />been added to the Mining Plan Narrative. <br />25. As required by Rule 6.4.5(2)(f)(ii), please specify the seeding application method as <br />well as the anticipated time(s) of seeding. <br />RESPONSE: Added a "Vegetation Restoration" section to the Reclamation Plan <br />Narrative that specifies the application of the seed mixture. <br />26. Please provide volumes, haul or push distances and grades associated with the <br />backfilling of the Phase 1 quarry areas. This information is necessary to calculate <br />the financial warranty amount. <br />RESPONSE: See "Final Reclamation" in Exhibit E - Reclamation Plan narrative. <br />27. The Applicant has included management recommendations for diffuse knapweed. <br />Please confirm that diffuse knapweed is present on site. If so, then please provide <br />the Division a weed control plan addressing the following: <br />a) A list of potential species of noxious weeds present at the site (diffuse <br />knapweed, cheatgrass, Canada thistle, etc.) <br />b) No comment. <br />c) A description of the various control methods which will be employed, such as <br />mechanical, chemical, or biological controls. <br />d) A monitoring plan which specifies the frequency and timing of monitoring for <br />noxious weed species and what actions will be taken when noxious weeds are <br />identified. <br />e) A post-treatment plan to determine effectiveness of control measures. <br />f) A commitment from the Operator to follow the approved weed control plan of <br />the life of the mine. <br />R:\2000\2089.00 Sprague Quarry\DOCUMENTS\CORRESPONDENCE\COMMENTS\Sprague comment and response.docx <br />