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erosion problems were noted in the partial Phase I Bond Release areas, and no settling, slumping <br />or cracking of the backfill was observed. <br />Drainage Control <br />For the SL -08 Bond Release application, two ditches were inspected to determine if they were <br />constructed to meet the specifications in the PAP, section of the West Pit Fill Ditch and section <br />of the Gulch A Ditch. Table 3 documents the dimensions and rock sizes that were estimated <br />during the September 22 inspection. All of the channels were stable and met the specifications <br />of the PAP or were somewhat larger (in terms of channel dimensions or riprap size) than the <br />specifications. <br />Another notable ditch within the SL -08 area has been built (Final East Pit Ditch) but is not <br />included with the SL -08 application. This ditch will not be Phase I released with SL -08. <br />Summary and Conclusions <br />The Division has completed its review and evaluation of the SL -08 partial Phase I Bond Release <br />application submitted by Colowyo for the Colowyo Mine. The Division proposes a Partial Phase I <br />Bond Release on 189.6 acres. The Division is also proposing Phase I Bond Release for sections of <br />post -mining drainage channels within these 189.6 acres. <br />Based upon a review of the mine permit, the applicant's bond release application, and site <br />inspections, the Division finds that Colowyo has completed backfilling, grading, and drainage <br />reestablishment at the Colowyo Mine in accordance with the approved reclamation plan for which <br />partial Phase I Bond Release was requested. The reclaimed areas included within the SL -08 bond <br />release request have been restored to the approximate original contour of the pre -mining <br />landscape. Slopes conform to post -mining contours as shown on the approved Postmining <br />Topography Map of the permit (Map 19 and 19B) and appear to be stable. Proper blending of <br />reclaimed areas with undisturbed slopes was achieved, and reconstructed drainages are <br />stabilizing and in good condition. The Division finds that Colowyo has achieved the <br />requirements for partial Phase I Bond Release on 189.6 acres at the Colowyo Mine. <br />V. PROPOSED DECISION <br />Based on the observations in Section IV above, the Colorado Division of Reclamation, Mining, and <br />Safety proposes to approve Colowyo's request for a partial Phase I Bond Release for the Colowyo <br />Mine. This proposed decision will release the applicant from liability for backfilling, grading, and <br />drainage control reestablishment on 189.6 acres of the site, as shown on Figure 4 at the end of this <br />document. <br />Phase I <br />The Division holds a performance bond in the amount of $80,517,829.00 for the Colowyo Mine. <br />Proposed Decision and Findings of Compliance January 2016 <br />Partial Phase I Bond Release SL -08 Page 7 <br />