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<br />specific measures will be taken as follows: <br />Fertilization - The SCS has indicated that the major limiting factor for <br />plant growth is water, and that the soil is adequate to <br />support the recommended seed mixture. Application of fer- <br />tilizer is not likely to benefit plant growth. However, <br />prior to seeding, soil tests can be conducted to determine <br />if the soil is deficient. If deficiencies are found, ferti- <br />lizer will be applied at rates recommended by the SCS. <br />Mulching - Mulching was not considered in the original reclamation plan. <br />However, after additional consultation, SCS has recommended <br />treatment with a "live mulch". In the early summer following <br />topsoil replacement and grading, a cover crop o£ Commonor Bal- <br />boa rye will be planted at rates specified by the SCS. In the <br />fall, the recommended grass mixture will be planted as orig- <br />inally specified. The standing rye residue will act as a <br />mulch, trapping snow and adding to soil moisture. As a re- <br />sult, spring germination of the grass seed mixture should be <br />benefited. <br />Seedbed Preparation - Prior to topsoiling, compacted areas will be ripped to a <br />depth of 24 inches. Following topsoil placement and grading, <br />and prior to seeding the live mulch, the surface will be <br />chiseled or disked to mix the topsoil with the surface of the <br />underlying material. <br />Y7eed Control - Weed control will be by mechanical means where necessary to <br />reduce competition with seedlings. <br />3. Concurrent reclamation was originally considered in consultation with the SCS. <br />However, it was determined that the reclamation process would be simplified if <br />carried out over the entire permit area following mining operations. Ongoing <br />mining operations necessitate movement and storage of equipment at various lo- <br />cations on the site. To minimize disturbance to seeded areas as a result of mining <br />operations, concurrent reclamation was eliminated as an alternative treatment. <br />Note that backslopes will be graded, compacted, and terraced where necessary as <br />mining proceeds. <br />4. As mentioned previously, compacted areas will be ripped to a depth of 24 inches <br />prior to placement of topsoil. Where compaction is not practical due to slope, <br />pit walls will be terraced. <br />5. Addressed in response to Exhibit D. <br />Exhibit G <br />1. Addressed in response to Exhibit D. <br />2. It is anticipated that on site drainage during mining operations will not result <br />in off site sedimentation or erosion. The low annual precipitation (7-9 inches) <br />in combination with rapid infiltration rates of the soil will minimize off site <br />impacts. In addition, the majority of on site drainage will be intercepted by <br />the pit. <br />