2024-11-20_INSPECTION - M2002109

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PERMIT #: M-2002-109 INSPECTOR’S INITIALS: AMG INSPECTION DATE: October 22, 2024 Page 3 of 12 The Division also observed all four grass species listed in the approved seed mix growing throughout the site, including the north pit area that was last seeded in 2019 (Figure 1 (A-D)). Also, as noted in the previous inspection, the topsoil is fairly rocky in these areas, and native vegetation has volunteered into the disturbed areas and is fairly well-established and diverse, being comprised of native grasses, some forbs and trees, fringed sagebrush, and yucca (Figure 1 (E-F)). It does not appear that there has been any activity at the site, other than reclamation work on the north side completed in 2019, since 2007. During the 2019 inspection, the Division noted that there were still several product and overburden stockpiles on site. It was noted in the 2015 and 2019 inspection reports that the landowner may wish to have the processed stockpile remain after reclamation for their personal use. These stockpiles were also observed during the 2024 inspection (Photos 6-11), and the Division estimates that approximately 0.3 acres of the site contain stockpiles (Map 1). ∗ The Operator stated that they will speak to the landowner(s) about the overburden/topsoil stockpiles and the product stockpiles onsite and ask whether they would be interested in keeping them. The stockpiles can remain after reclamation only if the Operator submits a signed and dated letter from the landowner(s) stating their desire to leave the stockpiles for potential use on their land and if the Operator submits a Technical Revision to update and clarify the current approved reclamation plan and reclamation plan map to reflect existing and proposed activities. ∗ If the landowners are unable to be reached, or do not agree to leaving the stockpiles, the Operator shall complete reclamation as approved in the reclamation plan. The remaining reclamation onsite consists of removing the stockpiles and/or spreading and grading the stockpiles, replacing topsoil at an average depth of six inches, and revegetating any new and remaining disturbance with the approved seed plan. During the 2019 inspection, the Division cited a problem for failure to complete reclamation in a timely manner (within five years from the date the Office has evidence that mining or exploration has ceased) as indicted in the approved reclamation plan, and per Rule 3.1.3. Because reclamation has not been completed at the site in compliance with the reclamation plan on file, this has again been cited as a problem above. Upon follow-up correspondence with the Operator, attempts are being made to make contact with the landowners regarding the product stockpiles. If an agreement is reached or if the Operator completes reclamation as approved, the Operator may re-apply for final release by submitting a Technical Revision (TR) application to revise the reclamation plan and reclamation map. Upon the approval of that TR, and with a signed letter from the landowners, the Operator may then submit a Performance and Final Warranty Release Request Form. Signs and Markers: The mine sign posted in response to the inspection problem cited in the Division’s 2019 report was observed at the entrance to the site during the Division’s inspection. Conclusion: This concludes the Division’s Inspection Report; a map and a figure displaying topics discussed during the inspection, and a subset of corresponding photographs that were taken during the time of the inspection, are included below. If you need additional information or have any questions, please contact me by email at amber.gibson@state.co.us or by telephone at (720) 836-0967.