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<br />u <br />EY 04 Twin Pines Bond Forfeiture Evaluation, pQ. 2 <br />We began the field inspection by walking the former haulroad from the locked gate to the <br />reclaimed portal and coal refuse pile areas approximately''/z to 3/a mile from the gate. This <br />haulroad has a red scoria base and is surprisingly stable. <br />There are basically two separate, small, reclaimed disturbances at the coal seam <br />elevation. One was the former mine portal entries, and the other was a coal waste and <br />development rock disposal area. Pre-law highwalls remaining at both reclaimed locations <br />were reclaimed as required for pre-law disturbances by using all reasonably available <br />spoil material to achieve backfilling against the highwalls, topsoiled and seeded. Both <br />areas are well vegetated and stable. The highwall remnants themselves seem surprisingly <br />stable, given the lack of noticeable spalling /rock falls, etc. during the past 9 years since <br />reclamation of the site. <br />One sediment pond remains on site, it was completely dry. Mr. Stark informed us he had <br />only observed standing water in it once in several years of inspections here. <br />Reclaimed / revegetated soil cover is stable, shows very little erosion, and soils & <br />vegetation show extensive sign of recent elk use. Very heavy chamisa shrub cover in <br />most areas, and diverse grass & forb establishment. <br />DMG plans to conduct the first of two years worth of revegetation success measurements <br />on site this year. The site may be eligible for Phase III bond liability assuming successful <br />revegetation measurements this and next year. <br />There were no offsite impacts noted during our evaluation. <br />Please address any questions concerning this evaluation report to Henry Austin, Senior <br />Reclamation Specialist, at haustin@osmre.oov or to (303) 844-1400 x1466. <br />