Laserfiche WebLink
Since Lift 1 and 2 topsoil thicknesses vary from mining cut to mining cut, and the quanity of <br />surface area of prepared backf III laydown area varies as well, the actual laydown thickness of Lift 1 <br />[7 <br />and 2 will vary as well. The topsoil pickup areas can be identified on Map 2.05.4-4 and Table <br />2.05.4.2(d)-3. <br />Maintenance and Testing Procedures. Prior to distribution of topsoil, all graded mined areas <br />(on which topsoil is to be applied} wilt be sampled to confirm spoil suitability (see Overburden/Spoil <br />Handling Plan for more details). The density and physical characteristics of the replaced topsoil <br />and upper spoil will be observed. Past experience has shown that ripping and chisel plowing will <br />correct any excessive compaction problems. Field staking will be utilized, when required, to assist <br />in delineating soil map unit boundaries. Color photographs or video taping of small, undisturbed <br />topsoil islands or pedestals witl be taken to verify topsoil salvage depths. The minimum sampling <br />intensity shall be one hole per map unit or five acres, whichever is less. This topsoil salvage depth <br />information will be kept on file at the mine office and will be submitted with the annual topsoil <br />Balance/Spoil Quality Report. Topsoil recovery depths will be adjusted if warranted by the site <br />conditions. <br />Replacement depths of topsoil and subsoil will be documented and recorded for each reclamation <br />block. Topsoil depth measurements will be' recorded on a 465-foot sample grid. This soil <br />replacement depth information will be utilized in the annual topsoil balance and for bond release <br />purposes. <br />Replaced topsoil will be sampled, tested, and evaluated for fertility to ensure optimum germination, <br />seedling emergence, and root growth conditions. A 465-foot sampling grid (samples represent the <br />corners of a 5 acre square and are the same as those used for the topsoil depth measurements) <br />will be utilized whereby every four or five samples per reclamation block are composite. At a <br />minimum, the samples will be analyzed for PH, Ec, SAR and texture utilizing standard techniques. <br />Sampling conducted from 1995 to present indicates that the topsoil contains no toxic components. <br />Table 2.05.4.2(d)-6 shows the sample parameters and results of this topsoil sampling program, If <br />additional topsoil material is needed beyond what field observations suggest is available, material <br />deemed suitable will be tested to the above parameters as well as to fertility . The fertility tests will <br />determine what nutrients to add, if any, to achieve production goals for the desired crops. <br />• Additionally, if a new soil map unit is used, then the new unit will be sampled for the four above <br />parameters, plus initially for toxic elements such as selenium and boron. <br />tR~~~seu e-is-zooii 2.05.4(2)(d)- 18 <br />