2019-11-27_PERMIT FILE - M2019058 (6)

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E-11 While sagebrush is noted as being present within the Permit Area(and surrounding ranch lands) in a relatively low density,no specific attempt will be made to re-introduce or re-establish the species within reclaimed areas. However, to the extent sagebrush may be naturally re-introduced and established within the reclaimed Permit Area during (or after) the five-year monitoring and maintenance period, CSC will consider such to be beneficial to overall stabilization objectives and such growth will be neither discouraged nor otherwise managed. Sagebrush species will remain not subject to(i.e.,will be excluded from)the site's invasive weed species control plan and efforts associated therewith. The rangeland revegetation activities will be carried out in a manner consistent with that recommended by Weld County, with the seed mix and application rate developed as per the "sandy site" mix specification shown below in Table E-2; Seed Mixture and Application Rate (for drilled seeding applications). It is anticipated that all specified species will remain commercially available during the life-of-mine and any subsequent revegetation phases, to include the five-year post-closure monitoring and maintenance period. As stated in Item (iii), above, no trees or shrubs are to be planted. All revegetation activities will be focused on reestablishment of the rangeland grass species. The subject site,in its pre-mining condition, has no established trees of any species at any location within or proximal to the Permit Area. Seed Application Method: The seed application rate depicted in Table E-1 is, as noted, for a drill seeding application method. However,CSC will monitor the ongoing results of concurrent reclamation efforts,to include ongoing consultation with Weld County and/or DRMS,to ascertain the optimal(most effective) seed application method for the desired post-mining rangeland use. In the event broadcast seeding is determined to be a more technically or logistically appropriate method, seed application rates will be doubled, as per Rule 6.3.4(1)(iv) and a Technical Revision will be submitted for approval prior to the onset of reclamation activities, with the reclamation bond amount being accordingly adjusted at such time. At this juncture, CSC proposes to utilize a drill seeding method, and that is accordingly depicted in Exhibit L: Reclamation Costs. In those areas where seedbed preparation may involve discing(i.e.,the former plant site area and waste stockpile areas), seedbed will be considered sufficiently roughened to accept and hold (drilled) seed application. However, in the remaining pit areas where "growth medium" is placed and graded, the Keenesburg No. 2 Mine_112 Reclamation Operation—November 22, 2019