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East Pit, West Pit, Facilities area and Gossard Loadout was reduced to an average of eight inches. <br /> A variable topsoil replacement depth was approved with TR-82 (September 2009) and <br /> implementation began in 2010. As described in the PAP, the general plan is to place topsoil in <br /> thinner layers (average of four inches) near ridge tops to encourage the development of a <br /> Sagebrush Steppe, and to place deeper topsoil on steeper slopes. Steeper slopes are generally <br /> considered greater than 10 percent and on these slopes a grassland environment is encouraged. The <br /> topsoil in locations outside of the South Taylor area average six inches of depth near the top of the <br /> slope and 10 to 14 inches of depth further down the hillside. In the South Taylor area, the planned <br /> depth of topsoil on the steeper slopes is thicker than in other areas (up to four feet depending on the <br /> slope length and topsoil balance considerations). This variable topsoil depth plan was revised under <br /> TR-166,which approved a uniform topsoil depth of 9 inches. <br /> Revegetation <br /> Native and introduced forbs and grasses will be drill seeded or broadcast seeded on steeper slopes. <br /> Shrub and tree species are also drill seeded or broadcast seeded, based on terrain. Revegetation <br /> efforts will be monitored to determine vegetative success as described in Section 4.15 of the PAP. <br /> Chisel plowing and terrace or contour furrows are the preferred methods of seed bed preparation. <br /> Mulching is not generally utilized at the Mine. <br /> Colowyo has made considerable efforts in recent years to establish shrubs and trees in the <br /> reclaimed areas. In particular, TR-84, approved July 15, 2011, addressed Stipulation 13 and <br /> provided a detailed plan for the procedures and possible locations for the tall mountain shrub and <br /> aspen planting areas in the South Taylor Pit. <br /> Findings of the Colorado Division of Reclamation, Mining and Safety for <br /> the Colowyo Coal Mine <br /> Explanation of Findings <br /> Pursuant to Rule 2.07.6(2) of the Regulations of the Colorado Mined Land Reclamation <br /> Board for Coal Mining, and the approved state program, the Division of Reclamation, <br /> Mining and Safety or the Board must make specific written findings prior to issuance of a <br /> permit, permit renewal or permit revision. These findings are based on information made <br /> available to the Division that demonstrates that CCC will be able to operate in compliance <br /> with the Colorado Surface Coal Mining Reclamation Act and the Regulations promulgated <br /> pursuant to the Act. The findings in the following sections required by Rule 2.07.6(2) are <br /> listed in accordance with that Rule. The findings and specific approvals required pursuant to <br /> Rule 2.07.6(2)(m) are listed in accordance with Rule 4 and are organized under subject or <br /> discipline subtitles. <br /> This findings document is updated upon permit renewal, which occurs every five years for <br /> the Colowyo Coal Mine.It is also updated for permit revisions. This findings document <br /> 25 <br /> Permit Revision No.5(PR-05),G 1981-019 <br />