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approved success standard for cover based on statistically valid data collected during a single <br />yeaz of the liability period." Section 3.03.1(3)(b) states "No more than sixty (60) percent of <br />the bond shall be released so long as the lands to which the release would be applicable aze <br />contributing suspended solids to streamflow or runoff outside the permit azea in excess of <br />premining levels as determined by baseline data or in excess of levels determined on adjacent <br />nonmined azeas". <br />The approved postmining land use of the Apex No. 2 Mine is grazing and wildlife habitat. <br />As explained in the following discussion of Phase III Bond Release, the Division approved <br />minimum revegetation success standazds that must be met for final (Phase III) bond release. <br />The standazds aze based on what is sufficient to support the postmining land use; therefore, <br />satisfaction of the Phase III standards would indicate satisfaction of the Phase II <br />requirements. Phase II release requires that statistically valid data be collected in only a <br />single year, while Phase III requires data collection in the last two consecutive yeazs of the <br />liability period. <br />Phase III Bond Release <br />Phase III is a final bond release. A Phase III bond release can occur: <br />No less than 10 yeazs after the last yeaz of augmented seeding, fertilizing, irrigation or <br />other work [Section 3.02.3(2)]; <br />2. When the permittee has successfully completed all surface coal mining reclamation <br />operations in accordance with the approved reclamation plan [Section 3.03.1(2)(c)]; <br />3. When all reclamation requirements of the Rules and the Act aze fully met [Section <br />3.03.1(4)]; and <br />4. When the final inspection procedures of 3.03.2 have been satisfied [Section <br />3.03.1(2)(c)]. <br />As set forth on page 184-14 of the permit application, the Apex Mine's revegetation success criteria <br />aze: <br />Cover: <br />1. Minimum herbaceous cover of 42%. <br />Production: <br />Minimum 900 pounds per acre. <br />Apex No. 2 Mine Page 6 January 24, 2003 <br />Phases I, II, and III Bond Release <br />