Laserfiche WebLink
EXHIBIT E - Reclamation Plan (Copt) <br />historical sites of the area. They have been in existence since the early part of <br />this century and are of interest to tourist and residents as well. However, all <br />areas bordering these structures, such as the mine and mill yards, will lie reclaimed. <br />These areas, along with the borrow areas and construction sites, will first be <br />dragged, improving the seedbed. The sites will then be seeded, using a imix and <br />application rate similar to that employed on the tailings pond areas. Tlie seed will <br />be spread, using a hand broadcast seeder. After seeding, the disturbed :Lands will <br />be dragged again to insure greater seed germination. No fertilizers or irrigation <br />are now planned to be used on these sites. Transplanting of native tree:o and shrubs <br />will also be carried out on these lands. This will be done at a rate re1`lecting the <br />vegetation type and cover of surrounding undisturbed lands. ~-'-~~ '~ ~ ~~ <br />Implementation of this reclamation plan will rehabilitate affected ''.ands by <br />creating a stable ecosystem resistant to wind and water erosion. These 1.`orces are <br />~tural causes of environmental degradation in the vicinity. When actinf; on barren <br />lands, such as inactive tailings ponds and borrow areas, the erosional effect is <br />increased. Stabilization and revegetation of these disturbed areas will inhibit <br />environmental degradation and increase habitat range of natural vegetation and wild- <br />life communities. Wildlife habitat will be improved due to increased hat~itat <br />qualities, such as greater food and ground cover resources. <br />Revegetation of these disturbed areas will also improve air and water quality. <br />The amount of erosional material entering the atmosphere and hydrosphere will be <br />~gnificantly reduced. <br />Another beneficial effect of revegetation of the disturbed areas is regained <br />aesthetic value. At present the practically barren inactive and active tailings <br />ponds are an eyesore. However, once vegetation is established, these areas will <br />again blend in with the surrounding terrain. <br />-za <br />