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III. COMMENTS -COMPLIANCE Below aze comments on the inspection. The comments include discussion of observations made during the inspection. Comments also describe any enforcement actions taken during the inspection and the facts or evidence supporting the enforcement action. Revegetation/Reclamation Success Approximately 25 to 35 acres of final graded slopes in the "A" pit area that were topsoiled in late 2004 did not get seeded, due to weather and ground conditions. A portion of this area was seeded during the last couple weeks, but operations have been hampered by wet conditions, and a small area of the steep slope remains to be roughened and broadcast seeded. Revegetated areas were not closely examined; more extensive assessment of revegetation will be conducted later in the growing season. There was recent emergence of seeded species on most areas seeded in the fall of 2004. As described in the previous inspection report, a dense infestation of black henbane, a biennial noxious weed, has become established near the lower stock pond in the "D" Pit area. The operator had sprayed the primary infestation within the last week, and the majority of plants showed symptoms of the spray treatment. However, individual plants were observed along the margins of the main infestation, and in various locations along the "G" Haul Road below, that appeared robust and apparently were not sprayed. A follow-up survey and re-treatment should be conducted promptly, to ensure that all plants are sprayed or otherwise treated to prevent seed formation. Control measures will likely be necessary for several years due to the persistent seedbank associated with this species. Work appears to be progressing on schedule in the aspen study plots. The water tank is in place, and installation of irrigation lines and the soil moisture monitoring network has been completed. As noted in the previous inspection report, the aspen study plot schematic diagram in the permit application is reversed, and needs to be amended. A minor revision will need to be submitted, to properly amend the schematic diagram in Appendix 22-3, to correspond to the actual plot layout. The depression area in the fenced aspen/shrub establishment area on the eastern ridgeline still contained standing water, due to the wet weather that has persisted since the previous inspection. It appears that aspens in the ponded area have died. The operator will be planting willow cuttings in the vicinity of various permanent pond locations within the next week or so, and it is suggested that willow planting be conducted in the area of the depression in this aspen/shrub establishment area as well. Fence construction had recently been initiated for an additional aspen/shrub planting area on a reclaimed hillslope adjacent to the new "A" Pit area stock pond.