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(Page 2) MINE ID # OR PROSPECTING ID #_ INSPECTION DATE_ INSPECTOR'S INITIALS GRM This inspection was preformed as part of the normal review process for a new permit application established by the Colorado Division of Minerals and Geology. The 15 Road Gravel Pit site is located approximately 2 miles west of Fruita, Colorado between State Highway 6 and Interstate 70. Operator representative Pete Siegmund accompanied the inspector. The proper public notice as required under Rule 1.6.2 (1)(b) was observed at the main entrance to the site. (Photo 1} At this time, there are no markers distinguishing the proposed disturbance area and phases. The operator will need to clearly mark these areas before any disturbance occurs. The proposed permit area is delineated currently by observed fence lines, roads and the river. All utilities and major irrigation ditches appear to have been delineated on Pre-Mining and Mining Maps. The operators representative stated that Public Service had requested a 30 buffer zone on each side of their easement. The operator should submit agreements or waivers for all easements under Rule 6.4.19. Exhibit S. There are some concerns from the Colorado Division of Wildlife (DOW) and the U.S Corp of Engineers (COE) concerning wetlands disturbance. One area that was inspected was an area in the southeast that in the original permit was classified as wetlands. The operator s rep stated that a resurvey of the site showed it not to be jurisdictional. The site was observed to be dry. (Photos 2 &3) Other areas of concern are the main irrigation ditches that transect the proposed operation. (Photo 6) The Corp has presented to the operator that these ditches hold wetlands that under COE jurisdiction. The operator will need to submit documentation for the permit file that United is addressing these concerns. This documentation can by the application fora 404 permit or other COE correspondence concerning this matter. DOW concerns have been forvvarded to the operator and are being addressed. The southwest portion of the proposed permit runs adjacent to an oxbow of the Colorado River. The edge of the river has cottonwoods and willows along with other typical undisturbed bank vegetation. (Photo 5) Some tamarisk is noted throughout the area. Also observed along the irrigation canals are infestations of knapweed and Canadian thistle. It is noted that a weed control plan is already submitted with the application. Several large piles of stumps and tree debris were noted on the lower section of the proposed permit area. (Photo 4) The operator will need to address the disposal of this material. The operators rep stated that others had hauled much off for firewood. Staff has concerns that any burial of the material will result in subsidence at a later date and therefore is not an option. Some of the stumps appear to be suitable for use as fish habitat in the bottom or edge of proposed ponds. In the central portion of the proposed permitted area, two ditches or drainages were noted that contained old tires and trash. (Photos 7 & 8) The ditches may have been old silage pits from past agricultural activity or a private disposal area. The area is noted primarily for future inspections. However, the operator needs to address how the old tires and other debris on site will be disposed of correctly. Responses to this inspection report should be directed to Russ Means at the Division of Minerals and Geology, Grand Junction Field Office, 101 South 3rd Street, Room 301, Grand Junction, Colorado 81501, phone no. 970-241-1117. I & E Contact Address cc: X CE: Greg Lewicki NAME Pete Siegmund ^ BL OPERATOR United /Old Castle ^ FS STREET P.O. Box 360J ^ HW CITY/STATE/ZIP Grand Junction. Colorado 81502 ^ HMWMD (CH) ^ SE ^ WQCD (CH) ^ OTHER