GENERAL41265 - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

-37- Establishment of numerous species of minor importance is not required and is probably not feasible. The mining and reclamation process results in rather uniform soil and slope conditions in comparison to the topographic and edaphic diversity of the adjacent undisturbed rangeland. Over time, biological and physical processes such as grazing and erosion will contribute to physical and vegetation diversity on the reclaimed area, as adapted species occupy niches which become available. The revegetation plan and the above diversity standard will insure that the dominant components of the herbaceous vegetation stand are restored. The applicant does not propose to plant or seed woody species on the reclaimed areas. This is as requested by the landowner, Bogle Farms. Based on the proposed post-mining land use and the landowner request, the Division approves the plan and is authorizing a variance from the woody plant density requirements of Rule 4.05.8(7). Potential adverse impacts on wildlife and the potential need for impact mitigation have been evaluated in concert with the Colorado Division of Wildlife. Potential wildlife impacts and mitigation measures are discussed in Section XIII - Fish and Wildlife of this document. The applicant has not proposed a plan for periodic monitoring of revegetation as required by Rule 4.15.1(4). In order to aid in the evaluation of the success of various revegetation practices employed and to document changes in reclaimed communities over time, the Division as a matter of course, requires periodic vegetation sampling. Sampling does not have to be every year, does not have to meet sample adequacy, and can be for a limited number of parameters. The following stipulation is required: Stipulation No. 7: WITHIN 6 MONTHS OF PERMIT ISSUANCE, THE PERMITTEE WILL SUBMIT TO THE DIVISION A PLAN FOR PERIODICALLY MONITORING THE SUCCESS OF REVEGETATION. ALL REVEGETATED AREAS SHOULD BE REPRESENTATIVELY SAMPLED AT LEAST ONCE DURING THE FIRST FIVE GROWING SEASONS, AND PERIODICALLY THEREAFTER UNTIL BOND IS RELEASED. Pursuant to Rule 2.07.6(2)(n), the Division finds that the proposed operation will not affect the continued existence of any threatened or endangered species. No threatened or endangered species have been recorded in the affected vegetation types in Routt County, and none were encountered in the applicant's vegetation survey. The proposed operation is in compliance with the requirements of this section. XIII. Fish and Wildlife - Rules 2.04.11, 2.05.6(2) and 4.18 The fish and Wildlife Resources description is contained in Section II.K of the application. The Fish and Wildlife portion of the reclamation plan is presented on pages V-2 through V-6 of the application.