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PERMIT#:M-2019-035 <br /> INSPECTOR'S INITIALS:ACY <br /> INSPECTION DATE:April 21,2022 <br /> OBSERVATIONS <br /> This inspection was conducted as part of the Colorado Division of Reclamation, Mining and Safety's (Division) <br /> normal monitoring program. The Ducray Pit 92 is a 110c Reclamation only site that consist of 2.45 acres where <br /> 0.66 acres of disturbance took place. The site is located in Mesa County. Amy Yeldell of the Division <br /> conducted the inspection.Neither the landowner nor the Operator were present for the inspection but were <br /> contacted ahead of time. <br /> The original disturbance associated with the site occurred in March of 2018 prior to a permit being issued. A <br /> permit issued was in fall of 2019. No additional disturbances have taken place since 2019 and the site remains <br /> in final reclamation. In fall of 2018 initial reclamation activities were conducted. There is pre-law historical <br /> disturbances within the permit boundary as well. All slopes associated with the mining activity appear to be <br /> graded to a 3H: IV or less. <br /> Given the sites pre-law disturbances, little to no topsoil was available on site for reclamation. Surfaces generally <br /> consist of mostly graveled areas with small amounts of residual fines. This lack of`topsoil' material has <br /> resulted in decreased desirable vegetation. Surrounding areas are of a similar condition in that they lack topsoil, <br /> leading to decreased desirable vegetation. <br /> In discussions with the Operator they have treated the site for noxious weeds. Dead litter of noxious weeds <br /> (primarily Russian Thistle)was observed. Overall vegetative cover is estimated to be approximately 40%. Of <br /> that vegetation, nearly all of it was noxious weeds (generally Cheat Grass). The only desirable vegetation <br /> observed was volunteered sagebrush,no perennial grasses or forbs were observed. None of the species in the <br /> approved reclamation plan seed mix were observed on site. <br /> Though this vegetation is similar to the surrounding areas, little to no desirable species have been established. <br /> The site cannot be considered successfully reclaimed. Successful reclamation requires the establishment of <br /> desirable plant species that are sustainable and support the post mining land use. <br /> Given the time of the year, Cheatgrass can still be sprayed for without significantly damaging later germinating <br /> perennial grass species. The Operator is highly encouraged to aggressively manage noxious weeds to give the <br /> desired species a chance at establishment. Additionally the Operator may be able to conduct a spring seeding of <br /> bare areas prior to the conclusion of spring precipitation. If this cannot be achieved the site will likely need a <br /> follow up seeding this fall unless the summer establishment of desirable species is extraordinary. <br /> No mine sign was observed. All mining related debris, equipment, etc. has been removed from site. The <br /> landowner continues to store trailers and other personal possessions within the permit boundary. These features <br /> do not appear to be inhibiting plant establishment but additional disturbances of the reclaimed areas is <br /> counterproductive. <br /> The Division currently requires a financial warranty amount of$6,447.00 for this site. The Division has <br /> reviewed the reclamation cost estimate and determined that amount is adequate. <br /> Inspection Contact Address <br /> Paul Martinez <br /> Martinez Western Constructors Inc. <br /> 2600 Partridge Ct <br /> Grand Junction, CO 81506 <br /> Page 2 of 5 <br />