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III. COMMENTS - COMPLIANCE <br />Below are comments on the inspection. The comments include discussion of <br />observations made during the inspection. Comments also describe any <br />enforcement actions taken during the inspection and the facts or evidence <br />supporting the enforcement action. <br />This was a partial inspection conducted by Kent Gorham of the <br />Colorado Division of Minerals and Geology. This former, contour <br />strip operation is bond revoked. Inspection frequency is quarterly, <br />with one complete inspection each year. Ground conditions on this <br />day were dry and the weather was mild and breezy. <br />Roads <br />The steep section of the road leading south into Section 22 was <br />found in good condition with no evidence of rutting or damage. <br />Hydrologic Balance <br />The inspection consisted generally of a walkover of reclaimed areas. <br />Sediment ponds were dry, with the exception of pond 15-P8 that held <br />a modest amount of water. <br />Revegetation <br />Vegetation is in the very early stages of sprouting in most areas <br />excepting north-facing slopes. The dominant grass species is Smooth <br />brome. Cattle continue to graze whatever new growth appears, to the <br />detriment of the revegetation effort. Due to limited winter <br />moisture, conditions are already poor and made worse by the grazing. <br />The State Brand Inspector stopped by during the inspection and <br />inquired about the possible sighting of a missing cow/calf pair. He <br />also expressed concerns about the grazing pressure. Unless grazing <br />is ceased fairly soon, the reclaimed areas will likely continue to <br />erode at an accelerated rate. <br />Overall, the site was found in relatively poor condition for the <br />early spring season, mainly due to dry conditions and excess <br />grazing. <br />3 <br />