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measured by the Division at an elevation of 7,261.83'. Since the difference between the two <br />elevations is so minimal and most likely due to user error, no correction factor was added to the <br />elevation points measured for SL -11. <br />The elevation data collected by the Division was compared to elevation information provided in <br />the SL -11 Bond Release application. After comparison, all elevation points taken by the <br />Division were found to be an average of 15 feet of the as -built elevations, shown on SL -11 <br />Exhibits 1 and 2. Given the expanse of the mine site and the steepness of the terrain at Colowyo, <br />as well as the error contributed by the user, the difference in elevation is acceptable. <br />For the East and West Pit, the Division finds that the Colowyo Mine has achieved a post -mining <br />surface that conforms to the approved post -mining topography and resembles the general surface <br />configuration of the land prior to mining. All highwalls have been eliminated and the reclaimed <br />lands blend in well with the adjacent undisturbed slopes. No settling, slumping or cracking of the <br />backfill were noted in the partial Phase I Bond Release area. While no channels or ditches are <br />included in SL -11, the post -mining channels that run through the reclamation parcels were stable <br />and well armored with no visible signs erosion or cutting. <br />Summary and Conclusions <br />The Division has completed its review and evaluation of the SL -11 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 129.6 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 area included within the SL -11 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 stabilizing <br />and in good condition. The Division fords that Colowyo has achieved the requirements for partial <br />Phase I Bond Release on 129.6 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 129.6 acres of the site, as shown on Figure 1 at the end of this <br />document. <br />Phase I <br />Proposed Decision and Findings of Compliance November 13 2017 <br />Partial Phase I Bond Release SL -11 Page 6 <br />