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3.3 <br />As shown on Figure 3.1-3 (Original Topography) the slopes on the ridges in McClane <br />Canyon are from 39 to 43 degrees. The slopes were measured on the ridges because these <br />would be the most level and measurements perpendicular to the ridges would indicate steeper <br />slopes. Therefore, the mine site is located in an area which had steep slopes as defined in the <br />regulations of the Colorado Mined Land Reclamation Division. Because of stability problems <br />associated with reclamation of these slopes, Grand Valley requests a variance from the AOC <br />regulations forthe mine bench area. The area will be reclaimed as shown on Figure 3.1-2. <br />Rules 2.06.5(2) and 4.27.4 require DMG to make specific findings relative to this request for <br />variance from AOC. To facilitate review of these items, each will be addressed in turn below. <br />RULE 2.06.` <br />• (a) As detailed above, this request for variance is intended to allow Grand Valley to reclaim <br />the mine bench to a stable condition. Reclamation to AOC would not be stable enough to <br />meet the requirements of 4.14.2(1)(b). When reclaimed to a stable condition, the mine <br />site area will be suitable for the intended postmining land use. <br />(b) The area will be returned to the identical land use which existed prior to mining; <br />specifically, rangeland and wildlife habitat. <br />(c) See (b) <br />(d)6) Reclamation of the area to stable slopes, because they are not as steep as those <br />existing prior to mining, will help to reduce contributions of suspended solids from the <br />1.5% of the McClane Canyon watershed which is effected by the operation. <br />• <br />M~ Volume 1 4-29-96 <br />