Laserfiche WebLink
no adverse impacts observed. However, the data will be analyzed for the final time and then <br />Flatiron Companies has committed to permanently sealing the two wells. <br />Backfillina and GradIna <br />A Phase I bond release was approved in October of 1989. At that time, the DMG found the <br />disturbed area had been regraded to the approved post mining topography. Some low wall <br />cracks were observed, but these were repaired in 1990. Two temporary ditches that were <br />noted in the Phase I bond decision have been regraded. No instability or cracking was <br />observed during this final bond release inspection. The reclaimed lands are stable. <br />Support Facilities <br />Flatiron Companions removed most of the structures and facilities at the mine site. The <br />landowners, originally Ms. Ida Peep who sold to Nielson & Associates, have requested that the <br />domestic well, septic system, perimeter fence, gravel yard and concrete foundation be <br />retained. The DMG approved this request. These facilities are just south of the entrance gate. <br />Although, not seeded, there is no evidence of erosion at the facilities area and it is stable. <br />TODSOII <br />The approved plan requires that a minimum of 12 inches of topsoil be replaced. Topsoil <br />depth measurements hove been collected by the DMG at the Bourg Mine site. In 1989, 28 <br />holes were dug. The average depth in the 1984 reclaimed area was 15.2 inches and in the <br />1988 reclaimed area the average depth was 18 inches. Five additional samples were taken <br />in 1996. The average depth was 12.5 inches. <br />General Mine Plan Compliance <br />Flatiron Companies is in compliance with their permit. All required work has been completed <br />with the exception of sealing the two monitoring wells. Flatirons plans to do this in the next <br />couple of weeks after the DMG confirms no additional monitoring is necessary. <br />Fish and Wildlife <br />The reclaimed mine site is used extensively by wildlife as evidenced by the sitings and <br />droppings throughout the reclaimed areas. Antelope and deer are generally observed <br />during inspections. No big game were observed during this inspection but, a pair of sage <br />grouse were observed. Sage grouse droppings were scattered throughout the northern part <br />of the reclaimed area. <br />Reveaetation <br />Seeding at the reclaimed mine occurred in 1984 and in 1988. Vegetation success on all parts <br />of the mine site is excellent. It is difficult to distinguish where the reclamation ends and the <br />surrounding undisturbed area begins. A permanent cover of grasses, shrubs and fortis is <br />evident. Dominant species are Big Sage, thickspike wheatgrass, and Russian wildrye. <br />These species will support the post mining land use of rangeland and wildlife habitat. <br />Mr. Patten said that Flatiron and the landowner insisted that the mulch applied at the time of <br />seeding was obtained from a local rancher to reduce the potential for weed or exotic <br />species contamination. <br />Weeds have not been a problem at the Bourg Mine. No control measures were ever <br />necessary. During this inspection a small patch of thistle was observed where Pond H was. <br />However, this was the extent of the weeds observed. <br />Two years of vegetation monitoring data was submitted with the bond release application. <br />Preliminary review indicates the vegetation success standards have been achieved. The <br />data will be fully evaluated by the DMG. <br />