2017-02-07_PERMIT FILE - M2016075

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EXHIBIT D RECLAMATION PLAN (1) Reclamation of the final mined areas will be initiated within 12 months of the permanent cessation of mining activities and is anticipated to be completed within 12 months of the start date. (1)(a) All upper soil horizons to be used in reconstructing the soil shall be removed from the immediate area before mining. The upper soil horizon shall be removed for use as surface soil on disturbed areas. If the upper soil horizon is less than 6 inches thick, enough material other than bedrock immediately below the upper horizon can be removed and used to obtain this thickness. Overburden replacement will begin after 1-2 acres have been mined, and continue the same throughout the mining operation. (1)(b) Areas will be sloped to a 3:1 ratio slope or flatter. Slopes will be compatible with the configuration of surrounding conditions and land use. (1)(c)(i) Based on the types of soils involved in the pit location the plant growth medium to be replaced should be in such a way as to establish an effective and long-lasting vegetative cover that is capable of self-regeneration without continued dependence on irrigation, soil amendments or fertilizer and equal to the natural vegetation of rangeland. Significant factors such as temperature, water and stress management will determine the plant growth. Based on the soil types in this pit location,the soils are sandy loam in the upper part, are sandy clay loam in the next part, and are underlain by sand and gravel at a depth of 12 to 20 inches. So at a minimum,this depth will be the thickness of plant growth medium to be replaced. (1)(c)(ii) Topsoil should be replaced when mining operations are completed. Before spreading the topsoil, the re-graded area should be scarified or ripped to prevent slippage surfaces and to promote root penetration. The rate of fertilizer application will be 40 pounds of nitrogen(N) and 40 pounds of phosphate (P205)per acre or as a laboratory soil analysis indicates is needed. Animal manure or similar organic material may be used to supply all or part of the specified nutrients. Time of application shall be immediately prior to seeding, at the time of seeding, or immediately following seeding, as applicable to the kind of fertilizer and the type of equipment used. The seedbed shall be well settled and firm,but friable enough that seed can be placed at appropriate depths. The seedbed shall be reasonably free of weeds.