2018-06-28_PERMIT FILE - M2018028

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Exhibit D—Reclamation Plan Please reference the following with respect to the required information section 6.3.3 Exhibit D— Reclamation Plan; (a) It is intended to replace the overburden when the excavation reaches bedrock. Presently bedrock has not been reached at any part of the excavation and the depth of the bedrock is not presently known. Please note that there are two (2) areas previously excavated that are in process of being reclaimed now(see also Exhibit Q.These areas were at a depth of approximately 15 feet from the ground level but still did not reach bedrock.These areas were not to be pursued any deeper due to proximity of the adjacent"highwall" (e.g. falling rock hazard). (b) It is expected that a gradient of 3:1 (horizontal:vertical) can be maintained for reclaimed slopes.This slope is to be applied in the direction perpendicular to the Arkansas River and may include some large boulder protrusions. The slope may be interrupted in some places by some large boulders that may protrude above the slope.This should help the reclaimed area "blend" into the natural surroundings. On any final slopes greater than 3:1 excelsior matting will be installed following the manufacturer's installation instructions to assist with reduction of erosion rates on disturbed soils. (c) (i)Stockpiled topsoil will be redistributed onto the reclaimed areas.The existing thickness of topsoil being removed and stockpiled is approximately 12"thick,and all that has been stockpiled will be re-distributed over the reclaimed areas. It is believed that the available reclaimed topsoil thickness will be adequate to establish plant growth, however it may be less than 12"thick due to loss of some topsoil to mining activity(processed with gravels, etc.).As mentioned in (b) above,some large boulders will also be incorporated to blend into the surrounding areas.This should help provide a more natural looking reclaimed area while also allowing the topsoil to be spread over a smaller area. (c) (ii) Seeding of the area will be done at two (2)different times; 1.As needed on stockpiled topsoil to prevent erosion. 2. On the topsoil after placement back over the excavated/reclaimed areas. It is intended to use hand tools to place the topsoil back in the reclaimed areas, and also to work the seed mixture into the soil (rake, etc.). (c) (iii) It is intended to use the recommended seed mixture provided by the BLM in the Environmental Assessment dated March 2015.The mixture and application rate is as follows;