Laserfiche WebLink
PERMIT#: P-2015-007 <br /> INSPECTOR'S INITIALS: MAC <br /> INSPECTION DATE:July 21,2016 <br /> OBSERVATIONS <br /> The inspection was conducted by Michael Cunningham of the Division of Reclamation, Mining and Safety <br /> (Division) and Amy Titterington of the U.S. Forest Service (USFS). The Operator was not present for the <br /> inspection. The Silent Hill prospect site is located approximately 8 miles southwest of Deckers, Colorado in the <br /> Pike-San Isabel National Forest. <br /> The Division received a financial warranty reduction request on July 1, 2016. The request for a reduction of the <br /> financial warranty was based on reclamation work performed by the Operator. The purpose of the inspection <br /> was to confirm the prospecting site has been partially reclaimed and is eligible for a surety reduction. <br /> Prospecting activities concluded on June 26, 2015 and consisted of excavating a single trench which measured <br /> approximately 60 ft. by 30 ft. The trench has been backfilled and topsoil has been replaced. The Operator <br /> seeded the disturbed area in the fall of 2016. In addition, the Operator placed downed trees perpendicular to <br /> the slope to help stabilized the reclaimed area and to prevent erosion. The Division did not observe any signs <br /> of erosion. The grasses have started to germinate. However, grass germination appears to be occurring on the <br /> level areas and in small pockets behind the trees. It may be necessary to reseed the site if germination is not <br /> observed on steeper portions of the reclaimed area within the next growing season. The native grass species <br /> which were planted at the site typically take from two to four year to fully establish. <br /> The Division observed several noxious weed species during the inspection including bull thistle, canada thistle, <br /> cheatgrass and common mullein. Pursuant to Hard Rock Rule 3.1.10(6), methods of weed control shall be <br /> employed for all prohibited noxious weed species. The presence of noxious weeds has been cited as a problem <br /> and will require corrective action by the Operator. Please see the first page of this report for additional <br /> information. <br /> The Division and the USFS hold a joint financial warranty in the amount of$3,250.00. The Operator has <br /> requested a reduction of the financial warranty to $1,000.00. Based on the observations made during the <br /> inspection, the site is eligible for a reduction of the financial warranty. Notice of the Division's decision <br /> regarding the financial warranty reduction request will be sent under separate cover. <br /> Page 2 of 4 <br />