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<br />-3- <br />Findings of the <br />Colorado Mined Land Reclamation Division <br />for the <br />Meeker Area Mines <br />Bond Release Application <br />Procedures for Seeking Release of Performance Bond (Rule 3.02.2) <br />The Division finds that, based on the review process history, the <br />requirements for seeking release of performance bonds as set forth in <br />Rule 3.03.2 have been met. Copies of written notices as required by <br />Rule 3:02(1)(a) have been submitted to the Division; Proof of <br />publication in accordance with Rule 3.02.2(1)(b) has also been <br />submitted. A site inspection was held in accordance with Rule 3.03.2(2). <br />II. Criteria and Schedule for Release of Performance Bonds <br />Phase I - Rule 3.03.1(2)(a) states that "up to 60 percent of the <br />total bond amount applicable to an increment or permit area may be <br />released when the permittee successfully completes backfilling, <br />regrading and drainage control in accordance with the approved <br />reclamation plan." <br />The operator has provided certified maps requested by the Division <br />attesting that the disturbed areas have been backfilled and graded <br />in accordance with the approved plan: Field investigations by the <br />Division have verified slope gradients and topsoil replacement <br />depths. In general, the regraded slopes do not exhibit any <br />instability, except two small areas at Northern No. 1 which were <br />identified in the inspection report. The Division therefore finds, <br />in accordance with the Rule 4.14:1(2) that the operator has <br />backfilled to insure stability and eliminate all spoil piles, <br />highwalls, and depressions. In addition, monitoring data and <br />visual observations indicate that the backfilled material has been <br />placed to minimize adverse effects on groundwater as required by <br />Rule 4.14:1(2)(b). The Division also finds that the regraded areas <br />meet the approximate original contour requirements of Rule <br />4.14.1(2)(a): <br />Drainage control has been accomplished at all sites in compliance <br />with the approved plan. All reclaimed and reestablished channels <br />appear to 6e stable. There are no erosion problems in any of the <br />reclaimed areas. <br />All buildings and structures have been demolished and removed in <br />accordance with the approved plan. In accordance with minor <br />Revision 04, the Northern No. 1 and refuse area roads; and a <br />