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<br />e) The Reclamation Plan (page 25) states that "Final grading <br />of the tailings will be near level except for 4-foot cross <br />wind bars constructed from mine development waste" (emphasis <br />added). The grade of the tailings is near level and the <br />absence of the cross wind bars has had no effect on the <br />approved Reclamation Plan. The grade of the tailings <br />impoundment is near level which was the objective of the <br />Reclamation Plan. Homestake does not agree that a technical <br />revision should be required for the established reclamation of <br />this tailings impoundment. <br />f) Area E has been regraded and revegetated. Englemann spruce <br />have not yet been planted in the area as screening is not <br />considered necessary. Homestake will plant spruce or request <br />a modification to the planting scheme for this area if <br />required by DMG. However, Homestake requests DMG to take the <br />attached letter from the US Forest Service into consideration <br />should they still require inclusion of Spruce in this area. <br />g) The mine portals have been backfilled primarily to protect <br />public safety. Open gates would have presented an "attractive <br />nuisance" to tourists exploring the historic mining theme of <br />the area. Mine equipment will not be presented at the portals <br />for this same reason. Instead, equipment has been donated to <br />the mining museum in Creede. Homestake does not believe a <br />technical revision should be required as the objective and <br />intent of the approved Reclamation Plan has been fulfilled. <br />Homestake has attempted to work closely with the Division of <br />Mining and Geology and US Forest Service to effect a smooth closure <br />of the Bulldog facility. As we would like to complete closure <br />activities at this site we request a meeting at your earliest <br />convenience to further discuss the inspection report and our <br />comments presented in this letter. <br />Sincerely, <br />Luke J. Russell <br />Manager-Environmental Affairs <br />cc. H. Barnes <br />B. Humphries <br />3 <br />