2003-03-31_REVISION - M1977344 (2)

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Division of Minerals and Geology March 31, 2003 Page 7 of 17 Response The reclamation plan has been revised to comply with the noted DMG requirements. See Figure F-1, Reclamation Plan map, as well as the revised text of Exhibit E, Reclamation Plan, both of which are attached to this response. Item No. I S DMG: How soon after a mine cut is bac>~lled will topsoiling and re-vegetation occur? Response: The current mine plan anticipates that the first phase of topsoiling and re-vegetation will occur by year 2006. As subsequent cuts are backfilled, the areas will be topsoiled and seeded no later than the next seeding season. Item No. 16 DMG: In order to comply with Rule 3 Section 1.6 (b), state how Holcim will protect the water quality of lower Bear Creek. The Division is primarily concerned about siltation of that portion of the Creek and the Arkansas River. Provide your plan to prevent siltation of these streams. Holcim should consider a system of sediment control structures, for those cuts that have the potential to add sediment to the drainage system. Another option would be a large sediment control facility (dam/pond) in or near cut 4 where the creek leaves the affected land area. If you elect this option, provide detailed construction plans for the facility and discuss whether it will be a permanent facility. Colorado water law requires the release of surface runoff within 72 hours unless a water storage right is obtained. Keep in mind that, if such a facility is proposed and it will require dredge or fill in waters of the United States or destroy wetlands in areas not covered by your present 404 permit, additional permitting may be necessary. If you propose sediment control facilities that would be constructed throughout the extraction area on a temporary basis, provide your plans for typical structures and discuss when and how they would be used. Response: As discussed above in the response to Item No. 7, siltation to the lower Bear Creek will be controlled by Best Management Practices (BMP's). This will be accomplished through silt fences, temporary attenuation basins, and hay bales to be installed in the areas where mining could potentially affect the discharge of any water to the lower Bear Creek area. Item No. 17 DMG: Explain how you will control sediment and offsite sedimentation where Cut 3 daylights towards the Arkansas River Jlood plain. Provide construction plans for any necessary sediment control facilities. (see Rule 3 Section 1.6) Response: Overburden stripping has already commenced in the area shown as Cut 3 on Figure C-2. Sediment control is maintained by keeping al] runoff within the disturbed area, and avoiding placement of any removed materials on natural outslopes. As material is removed and the quarry Holcim Response to Amendment Adequacy Review.doc