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E.1.2.1 Seed Bed Preparation <br />Following replacement of topsoil, the surface of the soil will be roughened by "ripping" the soil. <br />A roughened soil surface exhibits lower soil loss potential, increased moisture retention, cooler <br />surface soil temperatures, and greater seed germination. <br />Slopes of 2H:1 V or less steep will be ripped on the contour of the reestablished post-mine <br />topography to a depth of 12 to 18 inches using a tracked dozer. All low-grade and flat terrain will <br />be ripped to aid in water infiltration and retention of natural precipitation (rain and snow <br />accumulation), and to deter soil loss due to wind erosion. The re-contoured and graded surface <br />facilities, WRA, portal face, roads, and vent hole pads will be ripped in preparation for <br />revegetation. <br />E.1.2.2 Seeding Method <br />Seeding will be achieved with a drill or broadcast applicator in late fall (after November 1). This <br />will allow for the advantage of a natural cold scarification of the seeds as well as sufficient <br />moisture at the onset of germination. A broadcast application will prevent unnecessary soil <br />disturbance associated with equipment weight (as it relates to compaction) associated with a drill <br />seeder. <br />To minimize surface compaction and timeliness of the initial re-seeding efforts in late fall, drill <br />and broadcast seeding will be conducted concurrent with surface ripping. Ripping of the surface <br />provides a roughened and irregular surface that minimizes surface erosion and helps trap rain and <br />snow melt, improving available precipitation, and thus promoting better germination of <br />distributed seeds. Where the regraded surface allows, and post-mine topography is determined to <br />not be too steep, atracked-dozer with drill or broadcast seeder (or equivalent method) will be <br />used to seed along (parallel to) the re-contoured surface. The BLM approved seed mixture <br />proposed for use is provided in Table E-1. <br />5-23-2007 Exhibit E Rec Plan E-2 <br />