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VEGETATION I do not agree with the application statement that "There is no evidence of existing vegetation or existence of vegetation-supporting materials on affected land [so no revegetation will be attempted.]" Even though CF&I did not honor its promise to revegetate the site after their operations, over the twenty years that the site has been inactive, a surprising amount of vegetation has taken hold in what some view as barren rocks. These plants are readily apparent, even from a distance, when silhouetted by the sun. Though the mix of grasses, fortis and shrubs suggested by CLC are an economical mix, the likelihood that these will not persist is high. Using the plants now growing among the rocks could prove more valuable, especially along with other native species found here. Spiked tricetum, groundsel, hairy goldnester, heartleaf arnica, primrose, cinquefoil, twin berry, native honeysuckle, willows, elderberry, raspberries, gooseberries, wild strawberries and fireweed would have a stronger likelihood of being effective for longterm erosion control and the establishment of viable wildlife habitat. The expense of fertilizer could be avoided altogether as it discourages native plants while proliferating weeds. Transplanted spruce will need protection over many years if they are to succeed. Alex Tonnesen of Western Native Seed (7l9) 942-3935 knows this area :yell and could provide additional informatior. to ensure that revcgeta:ion is successful. CLC could involve the community in this-possibly through Colorado Mountain College-and simultaneously cultivate a positive public opinion. HISTORIC PRESERVATION Opposite the highlights on the map, on the southeast side of the river, is where much of the township of Monarch was built. I have heard that CF&I tailings covered the town here, which has seemingly vanished. As CLC removes this rubble, should they discover this to be true, any efforts for preservation of the town would be remarkable. Local history is important to this region and the Greater Arkansas River Nature Association is dedicated to its natural and historic preservation, Kathryn Wadsworth, Executive Director (719) 539-7289. GARNA has recently discussed the possibility of working with the community to preserve historic buildings-if even in pieces. Though CLC demolished the former maintenance building, which had sizeable beams from the trees which once covered the mountainside, resources such as these are often valued by others engaged in historic renovation and could be recycled. The old CF&I rock sorter is a marvel and has become somewhat of a landmark in itself. This is another area in which community involvement could work hand-in-hand with what may seem an unuseable nuisance to CLC. Thank you for allowing the opportunity to comment on the permit application. I hope these suggestions are viewed as creative and ethical choices in which CLC's operations can also compliment their neighbor/s, wildlife, plants, and community. Sincerely, V ~'~"""~ Gloria Brown Enclosure: Aerial map