INSPEC25240 - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

(Page 2) MINE ID # OR PROSPECTING ID #_ INSPECTION DATE INSPECTOR'S INITIALS GRM OBSERVATIONS This inspection was preformed as part of the bond review process. The operator has seeded certain sections of the permitted area and wished to discuss reclamation efforts in an effort to reduce the recently recalculated bond. Also discussed were areas of concern, which could help accelerate the reclamation and release of parts of Area A and B. Mr. Schmahl was present to discuss matters with the inspector. Area A: The inspector observed that the fairly Flat area at the toe of the highwall area has been seeded. Discussions with the operator verified that the approved seed mix was used. This area encompasses approximately 5 acres. Some rabbit brush. Sage and other volunteer vegetation is augmenting the revegetation efforts in this area. The operator has planted several tree saplings of pinion and juniper as well. Other roads and access points have also been reseeded and comprise another 0.9 acres that can be recalculated to just reseeding tasks. The area of the stockpiled material was observed. CDOT has removed'/. to 1/3 of the stockpile. It is anticipated that the rest will be removed in the next 2 to 3 years. Once completed the imprint of the stockpile will be reseeded and trees planted. Area B: Area B has a highwall that has been discussed and reviewed by several staff members. The original Mine Plan calls for the disturbance to push all the way to the vertical granite highwall of the canyon. The operator has removed approximately half of the approved materials. The biggest part of the exposed material is 1.5 to 2H:1 V slope approximately 15 feet in height. Mr. Schmahl wishes to reclaim the site and have it released. In an effort to stabilize the exposed face of the material, the operator has pocked the slope and planted trees and grasses. All tree saplings observed were doing well. Other pock holes had some grass, but the extremely dry summer has taken its toll and density is marginal, but observable. There is little evidence of erosion at this time. The pocking has improved the slope angle. If revegetation efforts can be done successfully then the slope should remain stable. The undisturbed material has a cliche type texture which helps in the stabilization of the exposed surfaces. The access road to this exposed face acts as a catch bench and reduces the overall slope length to safer margins. This area should be reseeded to help in stabilization efforts. Staff is recommending that the operator include some Gramble Oak, Sage Brush and Rabbit Brush seeding to this area to further the revegetation efforts. All species are prevalent in the immediate area and would naturally succeed into the area eventually. Re-contouring of the eastern point of the permitted area and the pulling back and rounding of pit edge along the north side was also discussed. The operator agreed to reshape the area to a more gradual slope. Efforts will be made to protect planted saplings or move them to a safer location until the earthwork is completed. A large pile of reject boulders has been placed near the east end of the storm water catchment basin. Staff has asked that this pile df boulders be scattered out over the toe of the slope to help in the stabilization efforts. The operator will leave some of these boulders in place to help reduce and capture run-off sedimentation before it enters the basin. Once the earthwork is completed the entire staging area should be reseeded. The operator has been advised that the bond on this area can be greatly reduced if these measures are completed. Responses to this inspection report should be directed to Russ Means at the Division of Minerals and Geology, Grand Junction Field Office, 101 South 3r° Street, Room 301, Grand Junction, Colorado 81501, phone no. 970-241-1117. I & E Contact Address NAME OPERATOR STREET CITY/STATE/ZIP John Schmahl 3842 G.7 Road Palisade. Colorado 81526 cc: ^ CE ^ BL ^ FS ^ HW ^ HMWMD (CH) p SE ^ WOCD (CH) ^ OTHER