REV98854 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Mr, Bill Agnew - 4 - May 20, 1991 2, Trapper did not provide enough detail in this proposal about how many "smell areas" they intend to establish, and where exactly they would establish them, We cannot approve a plan that deviates from topsoil replacement requirements without knowing the exact areal extent. 3, There are several areas in the study by Re dente where inferences or conclusions are drawn which may not be completely supported or apply to the current situation at Trapper, For instance, smooth brome grass (Bromus inermis? is the grass with the greatest representation in the test plots. This species of grass is known for its aggressive, competitive nature, and probably influenced the establishment of fortis and shrubs in the test plots. Current seed mixes generally contain a much smaller amount of smooth brome due to this very fact. 4. We assume that the majority of reclamation left to be performed is in a more upland oak brush type environment, where there is more moisture and generally a northern exposure. This study was conducted in a flatter, dryer, area with sagebrush as the dominant woody plant. Attempting to correlate the resul is of this area with what one mi ght expect in a different area may not be valid, We must recommend that this Droposal, as presented, be denied at this time. Trapper may want to consider implementing one or two areas of thinner topsoil, as afield trial provided for under Rule 4.15.6. Section 7.4 - A.O.C. Determination 1, The drainage channel profiles shown on Map M-14 indicate that channel reconstruction is occurring in compliance with the approved plan. 2, The post mining Drofiles appear to indicate reclamation grading which approximates the approved post mining topography. This is based upon the assumption that the dotted line representing "post-mining topographic profile" is an accurate depiction of the approved post mining topography. 3, Please submit copies of the four maps included with this section, which are signed by your professional engineer. 4. A detailed analysis of A.O.C. achievement will be conducted at the time of Phase I Bond Release. Section 7,5 -Grazing of Reclaimed Land Rule 4,15.5 does allow for grazing of reclaimed lands by domestic livestock. We see no major problem with this Droposal, and it seems to be supported by other experts in the range science field. Trapper should commit to updating the Division on the progress of the grazing plan and report the results in their annual report.