GENERAL50299 - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

shale derived soils dominated by western wheatgrass/alkali sagebrush vegetation, a 6 inch depth will be salvaged. In sandstone derived soils dominated by mixed brush vegetation, salvage will be terminated at the sandstone bedrock contact or when a characteristic reddish brown clay subsoil is encountered. In response to the salvage variance concerns, various tables, exhibits and text sections were revised to indicate that all suitable topsoil would be salvaged and that no salvage variances were being requested. The proposed soil replacement depth was changed from 1.1 feet to 1.3 feet. Certain statements in Tab 21 indicate that topsoil in map units 101, 103 and S103 may be of questionable suitability based on rock fragment content. Current information indicates that topsoil in the subject map units is suitable and will be salvaged. If the topsoil is subsequently determined to be unsuitable, appropriate documentation will be provided to the Division. All suitable soils will be salvaged, unless specific variances pursuant to Rule 4.06.2(2) are approved prior to disturbance of the subject soil map units. Soil stabilization methods proposed by the operator consist primarily of minimal . seed bed preparation (resulting in a roughened soils surface) and use of either a straw mulch or a quick growing annual grain cover crop on all topsoiled areas. Reclaimed areas will be inspected annually by the operator as required by the proposed rill and gully maintenance plan, and additional stabilization measures will be implemented if results of the annual evaluation warrant such modifications. Graded spoils with excessive clay content as detected by monitoring described in Section III.E, above, will be deep ripped to relieve compaction, pursuant to 4.06.4(1). A topsoil amendment program will be initiated if visual observation or annual vegetation monitoring indicates symptoms of nutrient deficiency within reclaimed vegetation stands. Generally, native species are adapted to the fertility levels of the replaced topsoils, and fertilization has not been shown to be of significant long term benefit in the region. Since the initial permanent reclamation was completed in 1994, fertility evaluations described in the reclamation plan will not be required until 1997. Topsoil replacement depth sampling conducted by the operator and reported in the 1994 annual reclamation report indicated that the required replacement depth was achieved. Several questions relating to topsoil balance calculations included in the 1994 annual reclamation report were satisfactorily resolved prior to issuance of the Renewal 02 proposed decision. V. Sealing of Drilled Holes and Underground Openings All exploration, drill or boreholes, wells, or other underground openings except those used solely for surface blasting will be plugged or sealed to prevent acid or 32