PERMFILE135186 - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

For re-vegetation in the wet meadow areas, field experience has shown that individual plants provide a much higher success rate and it is highly recommended that plants be used in these azeas to accomplish re-vegetation. The applicant proposes to re-vegetate the wet meadow areas with a mix consisting of 72 % Rocky mountain iris. It is recommended that this be reduced to 5- 10%and the other proposed wetland plants be increased, or new wetland plants be added. We recommend mulching re-vegetated areas with clean weed-free straw or native hay. It should be applied at a rate of 4,000 pounds per acre and crimped into the soil to anchor it. Crimping should be cross slope or on the contour, if possible. The State of Colorado has a list of certified weed-free straw available on the Internet or it can be obtained through local county extension service offices. All surface water should be diverted away from the re-vegetated slopes to a point where it can safely flow down slopes without the potential of serious soil erosion. Weeds in the re-vegetated areas will need to be controlled by mowing until grasses are established, usually the first four years after planting for native species. Again, the applicant should coordinate weed control with Kelly [thing with the Adams County Cooperative Extension. Surface and Subsurface Water The West Adams Conservation District, along with others in the azea, is concerned about the overall loss of water resources, both surface and subsurface, due to mining operations such as this. There are concerns relative to the effect this mining operation may have on underground aquifers in the region. The application indicates that a slurry wall will be installed azound the perimeter to seal the reservoirs. What will be the impacts of any water "shadowing effects" downstream of the reservoir? There aze numerous wetlands downstream of the proposed mining operation on the adjacent South Platte River and on tributaries to the river. What will be the short and long-term impacts to these existing wetlands? The surface area for the proposed reservoirs is large at approximately 167 acres. What will be the long-term, annual evaporative water loss from the reservoir? The NRCS and West Adams Conservation District will be available to review this proposed mining and reclamation permit application again after the above concerns have been addressed. Should you have questions, the NRCS can be reached at 303-659-7004. Sincerely, Jan Frit~ District Conservationist ~x7/J(J Ken Koebel Conservation Technician