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Rationale for Approval Recommendation Page 6 Application for Stone Gravel Pit Permit No. M-97-089 e. Poor success of previous mining reclamation (Bel% Emerson, Morrisl f. Destruction of public lands (Bel% Emerson, Morris, Stickman, Tros t/ Response - 4.a. and b. -Application states that reclamation shall occur to support "rangeland" post-mining land use. Currently, the BLM monitors livestock grazing for the permit area under the BLM's range management permitting system. BLM is the surface management agency, has reviewed the application, and has not indicated a conflict with the proposed "rangeland" post-mining land use. The Rules and Regulations do not require an applicant to reclaim for multiple land uses unless multiple land uses are so stated by the applicant. Response - 4.c. and d. -The Reclamation Plan states that final slopes shall not be steeper than 3H:1 V slope. Topsoil shall be replaced to approximately 8" depth. Reclamation seed mix shall be applied by drill seeding methods and covered by mulch. Mulch shall be applied at the rate of 2 tons/acre and crimped into the soil. The Reclamation Plan indicates that the proposed seed mix was specified by the BLM and includes a variety of native and introduced grasses, fortis, and shrubs. The proposed seed mix includes species that are tolerant to alkaline, saline and drought conditions. Three of the four proposed grass species have also been included in general seed recommendations, provided by Colorado State University, Cooperative Extension Service, as being appropriate for non-irrigated sites at similar elevations. Reclamation Plan does not indicate that irrigation will be utilized. BLM has completed an Environmental Analysis for the proposed operation. BLM Environmental Analysis states: "Soils/Vegetation:...While the site has a pretty healthy stand of vegetation, reclamation of the area after mining should yield equal or better diversity and production of perennial species..." Response - 4.d. and e. -Objectors reference to poor success of previous reclamation efforts apparently address pre-law excavation disturbances. DMG records indicate that operations, previously permitted in the area, have been reclaimed and released in accordance with the Act and Rules and Regulations. Regardless, it is the obligation of the operator to satisfy the performance standards of Rule 3.1. Financial Warranty cannot be released until reclamation has been completed in accordance with the performance standards of Rule 3.1, and in accordance with the approved Reclamation Plan and all applicable sections of the Act and Rules and Regulations. Response - 4.f. -The Act and Rules and Regulations anticipate that public and private lands will be affected where minable resources exist. However, the Act and Rules and Regulations provide reclamation requirements to ensure that affected lands are reclaimed to a beneficial land use.