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Wildlife Presently, the area is used for livestock grazing. However, some indigenous species may be temporarily displaced by the proposed mining activities. Existing riparian habitat areas along Idaho Creek will be undisturbed by the operation. Enclosed is a wildlife assessment performed by a qualified biologist, please review for additional wildlife information. Topsoi[ing Topsoils in the proposed mine areas are predominantly aquolls, aquents, and sandy loam. The Bankard Sandy Loam located east of Idaho Creek is a more suitable soil for reclamation, and will be completely salvaged for topsoil replacement. Topsoil will be replaced, where required, in reclaimed areas at a depth of approximately six to twelve inches. The topsoil will be segregated and stored separately from the overburden material as required by Rule 3.1.9(1). The mine plan map depicts the location and configuration of the topsoil berms. The berms will be protected from wind and water erosion by vegetative cover if in place more than 1 year. Please see the Proposed Seed Mix, page 13. The stockpiles will be broadcast seeded, and will be incorporated into our weed control program. Weed control consists of monthly inspections and, if necessary, chemical treatments in the applicable fall and spring seasons. Soil amendments are not expected to be required due to the nature of the soils. However, topsoil samples will be subjected to agricultural testing prior to reclamation to assess fertilizer requirements. The Soil Conservation Services (SCS) will be contacted periodically throughout reclamation for soil tests. SCS soil fertilizer recommendations, if any, will be followed. Revegetatioa Following topsoil replacement, reseeding will be performed according to SCS recommended practices. Based on SCS guidance for other local projects having similar surficial soils, the following revegetation procedures are anticipated: Grass seed will typically be planted in unfrozen soil between October 1 and Apri130. ^ Grass seed will be planted with a grass drill, or where necessary, with a broadcast seeder. • The proposed seed mix and application rates in pounds of pure live seed per acre are described on the following pages. ^ The area will be mulched, as stated in the reclamation cost estimate and recommended by the Soil Conservation Service, with 4000#/acre of grass hay or straw. ^ Weed control practices will be implemented as required. The above procedures may be modified as conditions dictate. If a significant invasion of noxious weeds occurs, the area will be mowed periodically for control. Weeds will be mowed before they go to seed during the first growing season. Mechanical control will be DMG 1/1 Permi! Page 12 of 49