2023-05-25_PERMIT FILE - M2022048 (9)

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ENVIRONMENT, INC. PAGE 14 L.G. EVERIST, INC. -WEST FARM RESERVOIR ADEQUACY RESPONSE 01 MAY 23, 2023 MINIMIZATION A weed control plan was submitted in the original application and the use of native species for revegetation was also provided for in the Reclamation Plan. There will always be sloped areas around the excavated areas to provide escape ramps for wildlife if they enter the excavation. The existing wire fencing will continue to be used at the mine. At this time there is 3 strand wire fence around most of the permit area, it will be fixed and maintained as mining progresses to prevent livestock from entering the mining area but still allow the deer to move thru the areas as they currently do. COLORADO OPEN LANDS (ABBETT CENTENNIAL FARM) When reviewing COL's comment letter we believe they raised 7 concerns that have been addressed in our responses to the Divisions Adequacy Review. We have pulled sections of the comments from their letter to address and respond below. Their complete comment letter can be reviewed in the file. 1. 'Any changes to the groundwater level or property's irrigation due to the neighboring mining operation will negatively impact the conservation values on the conservation easement property." LGE understands this concern and is preparing a study to establish background information to be able to react and monitor the impacts of the slurry wall on the Abbett Farm property. Information in Exhibit G - Water explains how the company will react if there is evidence of groundwater changes impacting off-site areas. The Groundwater study has been prepared with recommendations that will be implemented as the liner is installed to mitigate or prevent impacts to the groundwater elevation behind the liner. 2. "...we believe the proposed slurry wall construction will change the groundwater levels on the Abbett Centennial Farm property." The ground water report prepared by Schnable, and submitted with this response addresses these concerns. The mitigation plan proposed in Exhibit G - Water explains how LGE will determine what actions will be needed if this occurs. 3. "Given that the proposed slurry wall construction will be 15 feet away from the permit/affected lines, any groundwater mounding will negatively impact the conservation easement and affect the soil quality on Abbett Centennial Farm....." "We would like additional monitoring wells constructed along the property boundary to monitor for groundwater level changes and that the operator ensures that the groundwater mounding does not occur or impact the Abbett Centennial Farm."