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To that end we propose conditional approval of the application-proposed near-vertical benched one-quarter <br />vertical to one horizontal (r/a:l) headwall slopes, dependent upon a structural evaluation to be completed <br />and reported to Division by the applicant operator prior to the final extraction perimeter explosive shots. <br />In this way we can be assured of the absence of a heretofore undetected troublesome bedding or fracture <br />plane that would contribute to an unstable highwall. And if such anomalies are detected, the plan for <br />highwalls to remain shall be appropriately modified. <br />6. Division calculations for the initial frnancial warranty value are acceptable to the applicant, with the <br />following clarifications. <br />a) Task #2 trackhoe highwall scaling to remove loose rock is no doubt appropriate for worst-case <br />premature termination of operations, however the appropriate time to remove loose rock would be <br />during rock-mucking removal of raw product operations from each successive shot area, <br />commensurate with MSHA and OSHA on-going pit operations safety policy, while the highwall is <br />within relatively easy reach of conventional extraction equipment. Although the computed <br />quantity is already practically insignificant, the applicant feels that half the calculated quantity <br />would be sufficient for whatever loose rock should remain following the above-proposed extraction <br />practice. <br />b) Task #4 Replacement spreading of an assumed 2-foot depth of available soil back into the pit <br />floor and onto shallow sideslopes (assuming some slope-reduction backfilling to dispose of <br />unprocessed and finished product) is reasonable. That should not, however, imply an obligation in <br />the Reclamation Plan to furnish that depth of plant-growth-medium for the finished floor of <br />completed extraction areas. <br />As verbally discussed with you earlier during the site inspection we wish to clarify that labeled "Permit <br />Boundaries" in the three Plan Map exhibits are considered to be the "Affected Land" areas, as defined by <br />Rule I.1(3). Labeled "Disturbed Area Boundaries" are intended to only reflect approximate extraction <br />and operations area boundaries. Peripheral disturbance between those two designations may occur from <br />time to time. <br />I am available about any time to confer with you by telephone, a-mail, or personally regarding the above <br />adequacy review responses, and I am convinced that, working together, we can satisfy the requirements of <br />The Act and the interests of all parties involved. <br />Thank you for your expedient and very capable attention to these matters. <br />Sincerely, <br />Douglas L. Conger, Geologist <br />GEOLOGICAL SERVICES (Agent for the Applicant) <br />Flle: C/MesaSS /AdegResp <br />