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<br />8. In order to evaluate reclamation plans, please specify the average depth <br />of overburden overlying the shale. <br />Response - In our application we provided a range of overburden depth of <br />5 to 10 feet. To be more precise would require a drilling program to <br />delineate actual thickness. Fortunately, after reviewing historical <br />files from the past operation, we were able to locate a detailed isopach <br />map of overburden thickness, which is attached herewith. <br />9. In order to better calculate reclamation costs, please specify an <br />estimate of the overburden volume previously stripped by Great Western <br />and stockpiled on the western edge of the quarry. <br />Response - Great Western previously stockpiled overburden on the west, <br />north and east perimeters of the quarry. Quantities of material in each <br />pile are as follows: <br />West Pile 144,400 CY <br />North Pile 92,200 CY <br />East Pile 72,000 CY <br />Waste Dis osal <br />10. Is. the waste disposal site proposed to be compacted with each lift? <br />Response - Each lift will be compacted by controlled routing of haulage <br />equipment (trucks). <br />Reclamation Plan <br />11. The Division recommends that final quarry slopes be graded no steeper <br />than 3H:1V to facilitate successful revegetation establishment and <br />growth, minimize erosion and enhance the rangeland final land use. <br />Response - Western Aggregates, Inc. proposed in its application slopes <br />of 2.SH:1V between small benches/water bars which will control erosion, <br />resulting in an average slope somewhere between 2.SH:1V and 3H:1V, The <br />inclusion of the staggered benches/water bars will adequately facilitate <br />successful revegetation. It should be pointed out that much of the <br />surrounding area has a topographic relief with vegetated slopes of <br />2.'iH:1V, This further supports our contention that the slopes can be <br />successfully revegetated. <br />12. Please consider placing a one-foot gravel layer atop ripped quarry <br />slopes and floor prior to back filling with no less than 4 feet of <br />overburden to promote subsurface drainage, increase friction to better <br />secure overburden placement and allow for soil moisture and plant root <br />penetration. Two to four feet of overburden placed directly atop <br />impermeable shales at the relatively steep slopes (3H to 1V) proposed <br />may become unstable following major precipitation and or snow melt <br />events. Please discuss. <br />Res onse - Western Aggregates, Inc, proposes to mine the shale with a <br />backhoe equipped with jagged tooth ripping bucket. As such, the mine <br />floor and especially the slopes will be substantially roughened. <br />Moreover, once the shale has been excavated and the slopes and floor are <br />