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<br />4.9.3 Replacement <br />Prior to topsoil replacemem the spoil may be scared to reduce excessive compaction at the spoil/soil <br />interface 'rf it is determined such conditions exist. <br />While topsoil is being replaced in an area, it is hand-checked with a shovel to confirm the depth of <br />replacement. Due to the inability of scrapers to replace topsoil at exact amounts, an average depth of <br />±2 inches for final reclamation has been established on cropland and rangeland (actual cropland and <br />rangeland final depths are proposed at 18'±2' and 12'±2', respectivey). In addition, no cropland area <br />of 1/2 acre or more shall have a topsoil depth <2' of the proposed minimum targeted topsoil amount. <br />For cropland salvage areas having less than 8' of suitable topsoil prior to disturbance, at least 8' of <br />topsoil will be replaced on those acres disturbed. On rangeland, no area of 5 acres or more per 100 <br />acres of reclaim shall have a topsoil depth <6' of the proposed minimum topsoil amoum. In the event a <br />field trial, comprised of a plot(s) less than 5 acres in size which deviates sign'rficanty from our minimum <br />topsoil replacement requirements is proposed, Trapper will notify the Division via correspondence for <br />approval. <br />Soil samples are selectively taken to determine nutrient levels in the replaced topsoil. Fertilization <br />practices are based on results obtained from analyses of these samples as well as plant response (see <br />Section 3.6.2.3 and 3.6.3.3 for more detail on fertilization practices). <br />All retopsoiled areas are seeded the same year topsoil is replaced to achieve as rapid of vegetative <br />stabilization as is possible. On occasions, small areas of 300 acres may be retopsoiled but not seeded <br />in the same year as a resuR of early snow fall. Generally retopsoiled areas are directly seeded to <br />perennials. Compaction on retopsoiled areas is usually mRigated by the freeze-thaw action during <br />winter. Areas where over compaction results from repeated equipment travel or high soil moisture <br />content are adequately treated to result in a proper seedbed. Erosion control measures such as contour <br />furrows, small depressions, land imprintings, etc. may be used to stabilize the topsoil and promote plant <br />establishment (see Sections 3.6.2.5 and 3.6.3.6). <br />On occasion it may lie necessary to remove topsoil which has been replaced and seeded to perennials <br />in order to complete the regrading of adjacent spoils or to facilitate mining of additional coal reserves. <br />For example, where small areas of <br />4-256 <br />