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(Page 2) MINE ID # OR PROSPECTING ID # M-1979-089 INSPECTION DATE 7/26/2002 INSPECTOR'S INITIALS SSS This was a routine monitoring inspection of the current mining operation to evaluate completed reclamation and remaining reclamation liabilities so the reclamation cost estimate can be recalculated to include existing liabilities plus those proposed by the pending Amendment No. 3 application. The mine identification sign and affected area boundary markers are in place and in compliance with Rule 3.1.12. No significant erosional features were noted on the affected areas of the site. The original pit and Amendment No. 1 (AM-01) areas are mostly reclaimed. Both of these areas have bare areas that will require additional revegetation measures to complete reclamation. Both areas have a Russian knapweed problem that is being addressed by a weed control plan incorporated into the permit during Amendment No. 2. Control to date has not been very effective. The control plan is either not adequate or has not been implemented correctly. Grand Junction Pipe will need to pertorm thorough weed control measures at least twice a year to bring the knapweed infestation under control. Discing and seeding with aggressive grass species such as crested wheatgrass and inland saltgrass in the weed control areas where knapweed mortality has been achieved will be necessary to prevent re-invasion by the knapweed. Some tree planting that was committed to in AM-01 is still required. The Amendment No. 2 (AM-02) area is mined out and is being backfilled from the north per the approved reclamation plan. The barrier of land between the AM-02 area and the existing pond to the south is partially removed to connect the AM-02 pit with the existing pond. Though not required, DMG recommends that a portion of this barrier be left above waterline, with 3:1 side slopes, to create additional island habitat for nesting waterfowl. Revegetation measures would need to be performed on this island before the pond is allowed to fill with water. The northeast comer and southwest comer slopes of the AM-02 pit are not final graded. With plans for placing additional backfill material along the north slope this entire slope, a portion of the north end of the east slope, and the southwest comer of the pit were combined for an estimated 900 linear feet of existing pit slope that requires slope reduction. The backfilled industrial use portion of the AM-02 area is being used for stockpile and equipment storage. This portion appears stable, but should be watched closely for weed invasion. The portion of the site formerly occupied by Mr. Schmahl's sales yard appears to be stable and primarily weed free, but this area should also be watched closely for weed invasion. Responses to this inspection report should be directed to Steve Shuey at the Division of Minerals and Geology, Grand Junction Field Office, 101 South 3`" Street, Room 301, Grand Junction, Colorado 81501, phone number 970-243368. I & E Contact Address cc: ^ CE NAME Edward Settle ^ BL OPERATOR Grand Junction Pine and Suooly ^ FS STREET P.O. Box 1849 p Hyy CITY/STATE/ZIP Grand Junction Col orado 8 502 ^ HMWMD (CH) ^ SE ^ WOCD (CH) ^ OTHER