2020-03-23_PERMIT FILE - M2020021

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RECLAMATION PLAN EXHIBIT D 6.3.4- Final grading will be such that the topography is appropriate to the reclaimed use of the property, i.e. , as range- land. The existing stockpiles will be greatly reduced and the mined area will be left relatively flat and the floor of the mine will gently slope from north to south. The Reclamation Plan Map- Exhibit E-2 shows how we think the area will look when it is reclaimed. Reclamation will begin as the existing stockpiles are removed. This will be done to reduce the bond amount and leave only needed resoiling and revegetation if mining ended prematurely. Once enough area is done and will not be disturbed again the salvaged topsoil will be spread on the cleared area. The depth of the replaced topsoil will average 6 inches. If needed, fertilizer will be used to enhance the seedbed and will be spread on the seedbed and disced in during seedbed preparation. Seeding will occur between October 15th and May lst• Gener- ally before the first freeze in the fall or after the last freeze in the spring. The seed will be drilled to insure maximum germi- nation and most rapid cover establishment. The seeding mix and species of grasses to be used on the area are shown on page 20 of this report. This is a seed mixture made up of native grasses found on the site that has been used successfully on other gravel mines in this area. The seed will be obtain from a supplier in the area so the mix is adapted to local conditions. We also expect to see a natural invasion of forbs and woody plants from surrounding areas. Only inaccessible areas (if any) will be broadcast seeded. If the seed is broadcast, the seed rates will be doubled. Mulch will be placed on the area when seeding is complete and no trees or shrubs will be planted at this time. Weed control will be implemented prior to and during revegetation activities. This does not mean we will attempt to kill all weeds, since some provide a natural ground cover and shade for emerging grass. We will concentrate on controlling the noxious weeds on the reclaimed area, following the weed control plan prepared for the site. Cattle will be kept off the site during the first two years to insure the seed takes. If neces- sary the area will be fenced using a single strand of electric fence around the seeded area. After the second growing season the site will be inspected and an assessment of revegetation success will be done to determine if additional seeding will be necessary. If the analysis shows additional work is needed it will be done that fall. 25