2017-08-16_REVISION - C2010089 (2)

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25 The uppermost, unconsolidated overburden, which can generally be free-dug by the shovel, will comprise the upper portions of the backfill. Post-mining topography is shown on Map 2.05.4-1. The NHN permit area will be returned to approximate original contour. The entire volume of spoil will be used to backfill the areas mined, and the operator has not requested a modification of the general requirements of 4.14.2 for reclamation to approximate original contour. No cut-and-fill terraces have been proposed or approved. XI. Revegetation Information regarding baseline vegetation studies may be found in Section 2.04.10 of the permit application. Information regarding revegetation of disturbed areas may be found in Section 2.05.4(2)(e) of the permit application. The goal of revegetation efforts at the New Horizon North Mine is to establish postmining land uses of Intensely Managed Irrigated Pasture, Irrigated Pasture and Dryland Pasture. Some areas that had an Irrigated Pasture pre-mine land use will be reclaimed as Dryland Pasture due to lack of irrigation water availability at the time of reclamation. Letters of consent by the present landowners are included in Appendix 2.05.5-1. A. The Division proposes to approve the use of introduced species in the reclamation seed mix. The applicant has submitted information which shows that the introduced species are desirable and necessary to achieve the approved post mining land use, and are not poisonous or noxious (Section 4.15.2(3)). Seed mixes number 2 and 3 are temporary seed mixes. Mix #2 is for areas less than one year until the permanent mix will be planted and Mix #3 is for longer term temporary plantings such as topsoil stockpiles. The introduced species in these mixes will facilitate site stabilization and provide organic matter when incorporated into the topsoil prior to permanent seeding. Seed mix numbers 5, 6 and 7 are for the reclaimed irrigated pastureland; the mix is determined by moisture availability. All species in these mixes are introduced and were selected as beneficial for grazing purposes as discussed in Section 2.05.4(2)(e). The irrigated pasture mixes are seeded in the spring along with a companion crop of oats or barley. Seed mix #8 is for the dryland pasture and consists of introduced species that are drought tolerant, provide site stabilization and have utility for wildlife and livestock. This seed mix was reviewed and approved by the NRCS.