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The mine bench stabilization was performed in accordance with approved plans. SECTION V -DECISIONS TO REQUIRE REVISIONS OR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION There are several issues that need to be addressed. The first involves the definition of sampling boundazies for vegetation. In a letter dated Apri122, 1992, the Division recommended that the operator "redesignate all or a portion of the east riparian area as grassland. It appears, in pre- mining maps that most of this area was not a ripazian area before mining, with the exception of the azea now occupied by Pond 5. This change should improve the diversity of the grassland azea and help both communities move closer to achieving sample adequacy for all parameters." The Division wants to ensure that this issue isn't neglected. Secondly, although additional vegetation sampling is not required, the Division recommends that vegetation be monitored to make sure the site is still on target for bond release. The Blue Ribbon Mine applied for a variance from approximate original contour restoration requirements for steep slope mining. Appendix D contains a proposal to conduct a stability investigation by Rocky Mountain Geotechnical, dated October 1, 1981, and an interim report from the same company dated December 31, 1981. Existing failure (landsliding) of the bench fill and a rockfall problem at the highwall was mentioned in the proposal. The interim report is of a geotechnical analysis in progress. A rockfall analysis and a preliminary stability analysis were noted to be forthcoming, and the final stability analysis was projected for some six months later. Neither the preliminary or fmal analyses are present in the permit. It is the determination of the Division that a variance from approximate original contour is not and was not necessary because the deviation from the original contour - as evidence in Exhibit F-2 of the permit - is relatively insignificant. However, the Division feels that Minrec needs to complete the stability analysis to comply with Rule 4.27.3 (3), for stability of reclamation in an area defined as a "steep slope." This should be done regardless of the fact that the Phase I bond release has already been completed. SECTION VI -BONDING SUMMARY AND RECOMMENDATION TO REQUIRE ADDITIONAL BOND The Division currently holds a viable bond in the form of a U.S. Treasury Note for $80,000.00. As part of this midterm review required by Rule 3.02.2, a thorough bond calculation was completed for the site. The specific calculations are attached, showing a liability of $64,450.00. The estimate was calculated based on liability only. Based on the estimate there is sufficient bond money in place to reclaim the site if the need arises.