Laserfiche WebLink
EXHIBIT E <br /> k <br /> 2.2 Vegetation Management - Noxious Weed Management <br /> Effective noxious weed management is a critical component of the West Side Placer Project's reclamation plan.AuPt <br /> Industries,LLC,is dedicated to maintaining the ecological integrity of the site by using a multi-faceted,sustainable <br /> approach to control invasive plant species,particularly Halogeton.The primary goal is to prevent infestations from <br /> spreading and to restore the land with native vegetation.AuPt Industries prioritizes non-chemical methods and employs <br /> chemical control only as a last resort. <br /> 1. Prevention and Early Detection <br /> The first line of defense in managing noxious weeds is prevention.Through early detection and prompt response,the <br /> project aims to limit the establishment and spread of invasive species.Prevention strategies include: 4 <br /> Comprehensive Site Surveys:Initial site surveys will identify areas at high risk for weed infestations,mapping existing <br /> populations of noxious weeds such as Halogeton.These surveys will be updated regularly to track changes over time. <br /> Clean Equipment Protocols:To prevent accidental introduction of weed seeds,all equipment will be thoroughly <br /> cleaned before entering and exiting the site.This protocol reduces the risk of transporting seeds from one area to <br /> another. <br /> 2. Cultural Control:Promoting Native Vegetation <br /> The establishment of native grasses and other suitable plant species plays a central role in weed prevention by creating <br /> a competitive vegetative cover that limits opportunities for weed colonization.Key practices include: <br /> Seeding with Native Grasses:Disturbed areas will be reseeded with a mix of native grasses chosen for their resilience <br /> and ability to outcompete invasive species.This cover helps to stabilize soil,reduce erosion,and limit open areas where <br /> weeds might establish. <br /> Soil Health Management:Maintaining soil health through proper topsoil handling and storage prevents the <br /> degradation of soil quality,ensuring conditions favorable for native vegetation rather than invasive species. <br /> 3. Mechanical Control:Manual and Physical Removal <br /> When infestations occur,mechanical control methods will be the primary response.These methods include: <br /> Hand-Pulling and Cutting:In smaller,sensitive areas,noxious weeds will be hand-pulled or cut to prevent seed <br /> production and spread.This method minimizes soil disturbance and protects the surrounding vegetation. <br /> Mowing and Targeted Clearing:In more extensive areas where manual removal is impractical,mowing will be used to <br /> control weed growth while limiting soil disruption.Mowing will be carefully scheduled outside of peak seed-setting <br /> periods to reduce the risk of spreading seeds. <br /> 4. Monitoring and Adaptive Management <br /> An adaptive management approach allows for flexibility in response to changing site conditions and weed populations. <br /> Regular monitoring ensures early detection and prompt management actions: <br /> Regular Inspections:Qualified technicians will conduct inspections to assess weed control progress,identify any new <br /> 32 <br /> HARDROCK/METAL MINING REGULAR(112)APPLICATION AuPt Industries LLC I PO Box 1424-Edwards,Colorado 81632 1 970 306 1784 <br />