2005-01-18_REVISION - M1978314 (2)

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Erica Crosby Division of Minerals and Geology January 14,2005 Page 4 of 5 springs is anticipated. For the fifth spring, with an estimated elevation higher than the proposed mining depth, mining will remain at least 5 feet higher than the average groundwater level as data from the monitoring well in this area indicates. There will be approximately 10 years (or more) of groundwater level data available by the time mining reaches the area of this spring (northeast corner of Phase 2, southeast corner of Phase 3). Rule 6.4.8 Exhibit H -Wildlife Information 19. Presence and Population of Species on Site: The site is not known to harbor any endangered or threatened species, based on our review of the Routt County GIS system and discussions with local Division of Wildlife personnel. We have contacted the DOW in writing for additional comments and recommendations, and will submit this response to the Division prior to the decision date. 20. Description of General Effect to Wildlife During and After Operation: There may be some temporary loss of food and habitat for sage grouse and small mammals that use the site. However, the applicant is proposing to concurrently reclaim the site as mining progresses to the extent possible, including reseeding using sage and grasses that are the predominant existing vegetation. The fact that the final reclamation slopes (3H:1V or less steep) will be left in-situ during mining operations means that wildlife will be able to navigate most of the property even as mining operations are in progress. In addition, there are thousands of similarly vegetated, undeveloped acres adjacent to this site, and it is expected that wildlife will temporarily relocate their habitat and migration routes to adjacent properties during mining operations. Noise from the operation is not expected to have any significant effect on wildlife, as all processing equipment will be located below natural grade to minimize effects on surrounding areas. In general, the rural location and phased mine plan will result in only minimal, temporary effects to wildlife populations. Rule 6.4.10 Exhibit J - Veaetation Information 21. Wetlands On Site: There are no jurisdictional wetlands known or suspected to be present within the affected area. Rule 6.4.12 Exhibit L -Reclamation Cost Estimate 22. Reclamation Cost: We understand that the Division will estimate a cost to reclaim the site once all adequacy items have been addressed. Rule 6.4.13 Exhibit M -Other Permit & Licenses 23. CDPS Stormwater Permit and NPDES Permit: As stated in our response to question No 13, the site is very porous and we do not anticipate any standing water for periods exceeding 72 hours, nor do we anticipate the need for offsite discharge. If a concrete plant, wash plant, settling ponds and a discharge point are needed at some point in the future, the applicant will obtain the applicable discharge permits from the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment. Rule 6.4.19 Exhibit S -Structures within 200 feet 24. Houses to be Removed: The two houses are not within the affected are. Their removal is the choice of the landowner and is not related to mining activities.