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critical component in the visual mitigation effort. We also recognize thaz there are areas <br />along the southern boundary that can be bermed and landscaped that aze removed from the <br />potential wetlands areas. <br />As part of the approved plan, the applicant will be required to submit, in the future, a <br />berming/landscapepian and elevation to the City of Rifle for review and approval. <br />Approval will be required prior to commencement of any mining activities on the Snyder Pit <br />site. <br />Response: As discussed at the July 12 meeting, berming east of the large hill should nor be <br />required. This portion of the site is somewhat less visible from the I-70 right-of-way ti~m~ the <br />areas west of the large hill. There is crorently existing here mature vegetation adjacent to the <br />right-of--way in the form of large conomvoods. T7rrs existing vegetation will be preserved Also, <br />this area will be used for much of the wetlands mitigation needed at the site. The wetlands <br />impacts will be addressed through a combination of wetlands mrd riparian mitigation that will <br />frvther help buffer the site from the 1-70 corridor. The riparian portion of this mitigation will <br />also consist offast growing trees, such as Plains Cottomvoods, thud will provide additional <br />screening in this area in a short period of time. <br />Replacement of Dead or Dying Plant Material <br />The timely replacement of dead or dying material is critical to the overall appearance and <br />effect of the visual buffer. Replacement of material in a timely manner within the same <br />grooving season is not acceptable. <br />Dead and dying material shall be replaced, with the same species and the same size, within <br />30 days of notification, by the City of Rifle, that replacement is necessary. <br />Response: Agreed. <br />The comments addressed above have been reflected in the drawings and landscaping discussion <br />attached to this response letter. It is our belief that we have complied with every item of your <br />letter and we request that you expedite your additional review to help us meet our scheduling with <br />the DMG and other agencies. If you have any questions or additional comments, please contact <br />our office directly. <br />Thank you. <br />Sincerely, ` <br />Stephen R. Wul/jCel)k <br />Knight Planning Services <br />