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C. Topsoil Redistribution <br /> Topsoil redistribution for the Mine is described in Sections 2.05.3(5), 2.05.4(2)(d), and 4.06 (Volume <br /> 1 for the East Pit, West Pit, Section 16 Pit, Facilities Area and Gossard Loadout; Volume 12 for <br /> South Taylor Pit; Volume 15 for Collom Pit) of the PAP. Regraded spoils will be scarified, where <br /> necessary, before replacement of topsoil by truck and loaders and dozers. Where necessary, a <br /> drainage control bench or furrow will be constructed on spoil slopes of 3:1 (horizontal to vertical). <br /> Topsoil will then be applied in a rough condition, chiseled to relieve compaction and contour <br /> furrowed to minimize erosion. <br /> For most of the Mine's history, required average uniform topsoil replacement thickness was 18 <br /> inches, although a 12-inch average uniform replacement thickness was specified for Section 11. With <br /> the approval of TR-62 (May 2006), the required average uniform topsoil replacement thickness <br /> applicable to"original permit area" disturbances was 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 Sagebrush <br /> Steppe, and to place deeper topsoil on steeper slopes. Steeper slopes are generally considered greater <br /> than 10 percent and on these slopes a grassland environment is encouraged. The topsoil in locations <br /> outside of the South Taylor area average six inches of depth near the top of the slope and 10 to 14 <br /> inches of depth further down the hillside. In the South Taylor area, the planned depth of topsoil on <br /> the steeper slopes is thicker than in other areas (up to four feet depending on the slope length and <br /> topsoil balance considerations). This variable topsoil depth plan was revised under TR-166, which <br /> approved a uniform topsoil depth of 9 inches. <br /> D. Specific Findings Required by Rule 4.06 <br /> The Division approved a waiver of the requirement for clearing of vegetation cover prior to topsoil <br /> removal. Colowyo has demonstrated that inclusion of vegetation cover in salvaged topsoil is <br /> necessary or desirable to ensure soil productivity consistent with the postmining land use (Rule <br /> 4.06.2(1)). <br /> The Division granted a variance from topsoil removal in accordance with Rule 4.06.2(2)(a). Areas <br /> which may qualify for variance are: areas where light traffic does not destroy existing vegetation, <br /> areas where removal would result in needless damage to soil characteristics, steep slopes of minimum <br /> topsoil depths, steep slopes hazardous for equipment operations, and areas of construction of small <br /> structures such as power poles, signs or fence lines. <br /> V. Sealing of Drilled Holes and Underground Openings -Rule 4.07 <br /> The Permit is found to be in compliance with Rule 4.07. Each exploration hole, other bore hole <br /> 41 <br /> Permit Revision No.5(PR-05),C-1981-019 <br />