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C. TOPSOIL The existing topsoil and overburden on the property consists of a 0 to 7 1/2 foot layer of sandy silty loans. The majority of grass roots are contained within the top 12 inches of soil. All topsoil will be stripped prior to mining and stockpiled. Stockpiles which remain in place longer than one groK~ing season will be seeded with a fast growing cover to minimize wind and water erosion. Handling of topsoil will be minimized by efficient sequencing of mining and reclamati~~n through phases. After mv.~ing has passed through an area, non-marketable material will be replaced at an even depth of 12 to 18 inches along shorelines and graded. Soil amendments are not proposed due to the rit:h organic content of this river bottom topsoil. However, if they are determined necessary by the SCS, they will be used to enhance plant growth. D. WILDLIFE The proposed reclamation for the amended property does not propose to create wildlife habitat. There are no known endangered species in the area. All activities will be planned considering the safety and protection of wildlife on the property. Some species may be temporarily displaced by the mining activities. They are expected to reestablish with no difficulty after mining and reclamation has been completed. It should be noted that this operation has coexisted with Bald Eagles for many years with absolutely no detrimental effects on the birds. E. RI:VEGETATION The reclamation plan will revegetate all disturbed areas with appropriate seed mixes to minimize erosion, re-establish natural terrain and create stabilized shorelines. Reseeding of the property will be done after topsoil is replaced, in accordance with accepted planting practices. All grass seeds will be planted with a grass drill equipped with depth bands and press wheels. Seed will be planted approximately one-half inch deep and will be drilled between November 1 and April 1. The grass seed mix includes drought tolerant varieties and will be planted either in early spring or fall to ensure germination. If a significant invasion of noxious weeds occurs, the area will be mowed periodically for control. PJeeds will be mowed when they reach a height of 6 to 12 inches throughout the first growing season. Mechanical control will be used as a first priority. Chemical methods will only be used if no other alternative produces acceptable results. The property is not forested and will not require fire lanes. A minimtrm thirty foot setback will be maintained around the permit boundary which will allow access. The reclamation of the processing site located in the existing permit boundary will be delayed until the final phase of mining is completed. It will be reclaimed at the same time as Phase IV as shown on the Reclamation Plan Map. At that time the ground will be scarified, leveled, and seeded with an appropriate grass seed mix. 5