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1 <br /> should the University desire to build on this portion of the Flatiron Property, because of <br /> ' the high cost of wetland replacement. <br /> ' Existina Vegetation <br /> Currently the site, due to its mined condition, is either not vegetated or sparsely vegetated. <br /> In those areas which have been reclaimed and have been re-vegetated, minimal topsoil was <br /> ' placed on the surface of the mined areas. Historically, only a thin layer of topsoil covered <br /> the property. Approximately 12 to 15 acres near the mid-section of the eastern property <br /> ' boundary were considered prime agricultural land based upon the pre-mined depth of <br /> topsoil in this area (up to 12 inches). It will be important that a minimum of 6 to 8 inches <br /> ' of topsoil be placed on the reclaimed lands in order to support a vegetative cover. <br /> Establishing a vegetative cover on the mined surface will protect the ground soil from <br /> ' blowing away in the winds that are often present in Boulder. Establishing a vegetative <br /> cover over the sedimentation ponds is also vital. When these ponds dry up, they turn to <br /> ' dust and fines blow away. Keeping these areas at an elevation close to the groundwater <br /> table in the winter and semi-damp in the spring and summer months will be important in <br /> ' the establishment of wetland vegetation and riparian areas, if that is the University's <br /> ' desire. The Flatiron mining permit states that 6 to 8 inches of topsoil will be placed over <br /> the mined area prior to re-establishment of vegetative cover. The University should <br /> ' investigate the quantity of topsoil that will actually be placed on the disturbed areas during <br /> the reclamation process. Some assurances should be provided regarding this issue. <br /> ' Fugitive dust will likely be a major issue with this site, if vegetation is not promptly <br /> established. <br /> Flood irrigation of an established grass area could partially be accomplished with the <br /> ' shares of the Dry Creek No. 2 Ditch if it were in an area that is not in close proximity to <br /> the groundwater. See Section VII following for a discussion of water rights issues related <br /> ' to the Flatiron Property. <br /> ' -21- <br />