2016-05-02_REPORT - C2009087 (6)

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-- - ----- . -...- REVEGETATION • Seeding and Shrub Planting Table 12.2, PSCM Upland Area Seed Mix, and Table 12.3, PSCM Mesic Site Conditions Seed Mix, reflect the species and seeding rates for the approved revegetation seed mixes. Although no seeding was required in 2014 or 2015, supplemental broadcast seeding was completed in 2014 for recently disturbed ditches, slopes near the portal, and selected areas within the 356.4 acre disturbance boundary to stabilize these areas and increase vegetative cover. No shrubs or trees were planted in 2015. • Weed Control Noxious weed surveys were completed to identify areas of weed infestations on the PSCM reclaimed areas in 2015. Targeted weed control spraying was conducted using selective herbicide mixtures to control several identified species, with thistle and hounds -tongue as the primary targeted species, and secondary spraying of any areas of whitetop, mullen, and toadflax. Weed control areas will be monitored in 2016 for effectiveness and any necessary follow-up treatment. See Attachment B — Weed Control Logs, for details on the 2015 herbicide spray applications (actual log is on file at the mine site). Since sprayed areas were relatively small and adequately described in the weed control log, a map will not be provided with the 2015 report. Note that the building perimeters (office, shop, etc.), substations, and road perimeters were monitored and sprayed as needed. • Revegetation Success Monitoring The CDRMS approved Minor Revision (MR -27) for minor changes to the vegetation success criteria of the solid waste disposal or landfill area. The landfill is an area comprised of approximately 8.0 acres and was approved for Phase I Bond Release as a part of SL -4 (Seneca II) in June of 2010. PSCM proposed the vegetation success criteria be changed to that of the more recently disturbed areas associated with the underground mine as described in Section 2.05.4 (Reclamation Plan) of the approved mine permit. As a result of the approved revision, only the sagebrush reference area will be used for revegetation success evaluations for the reasons described in Section 2.05.4(2)(e)(vi) of the PSCM permit as the pre -mine area of the landfill was predominantly sagebrush. Quantitative sampling was undertaken in August 2014 by ESCO/Cedar Creek Associates to evaluate revegetation success for the landfill area. The revegetation in this area met all applicable success criteria and an application for Phase II Bond Release will be prepared and submitted in the near future. 2015 ARR 3