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The Division questioned what field characteristics would be used to define appropriate salvage depths and requested justification for complete or partial salvage variances proposed for a number of soil map units. Seneca provided appropriate detail in regard to field salvage depth determinations. Generally, in 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 5103 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 mod cations. 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 be initiated in 1997. Within PR-3, SCC has proposed to prepare a roughened seedbed on slopes steeper than 25% to be employed in conjunction with broadcast seeding. The roughened seedbed will entail extensive gouging by track-hoe or dozer blade, to provide additional erosion protection and sites for seedling establishment on steep slopes. Also within PR-3, SCC Seneca II-W Findings Document 47 November 17, 2004 Permit Revision No. 4