Laserfiche WebLink
<br />shrubs. The seasonality and forage characteristics of the vegetative species appeaz suitable for the <br />approved post-mining land use of rangeland and wildlife habitat. Although no wildlife were seen <br />during the bond release inspection, there was evidence the azea is visited by deer, elk, and small <br />mammals. Vegetation has locally been intensely browsed. Hoof prints and droppings were found on <br />the site. Other wildlife that has regulazly been seen on past inspections include: small mammals <br />(rabbits and mice), raptors (hawks and eagles), and various small birds. No weed problems or <br />significant bare azeas were found. <br />Based on the stability of the lands and the observed use by wildlife, the Division finds that the bond <br />release azea is capable of supporting the postmining land use. <br />Findines on Completion of the Reclamation Plan <br />Kaiser is requesting Phase III (final) release for an approximate 94-acre disturbed azea and 170-acre <br />permit azea, all located in Section 30, Township 34 North, Range 4 West. (An additional 16 acres of <br />disturbed land in the permit azea, the irrigated pastureland next to Stollsteimer Creek, have <br />previously received Phase III release). The Division reviewed the bond release application and <br />inspected the lands. Based on the review and inspection, the Division Ends that Kaiser has <br />successfully completed all surface coal mining reclamation operations in accordance with the <br />approved reclamation plan and fully met all reclamation requirements of the Rules and the Act. <br />V. PROPOSED DECISION <br />Based on the findings set forth above, the Division proposes to approve Kaiser's request for Phase lII <br />bond release for the Chimney Rock Mine. This proposed decision will release Kaiser from liability <br />for reclamation work in the bond release azea. The Division currently holds a performance bond in <br />the amount of $103,200 from Kaiser. The Division proposes to release the entire bond amount and <br />terminate jurisdiction on the lands covered by mining and reclamation permit C-81-023. <br />Any person with a valid legal interest which might be adversely affected by this proposed decision <br />may request a formal public hearing before the Mined Land Reclamation Boazd in accordance with <br />Section 3.03.2(6). Public notice of this proposed decision will be published twice in the Pagosa <br />Springs Sun newspaper for two weeks as soon as possible. Requests for public hearing must be <br />submitted to the Division in writing within thirty days of the first publication in the Pagosa Springs <br />Sun. If no hearing is requested within thirty days, the Division's decision will become final. <br />15 <br />