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<br />3) , Slopes -Slopes created bN pit mining operations will need revegetation. Slopes should <br />• not be steeper than 4:1 (H:~. In general, the chances for vegetation establishment <br />increase as steepness of slopes decreases. Steepness of slopes should vary to create a <br />pleasing, natural appearance. Contour benches may have to be established to aid in <br />control of erosion and ease establishment of new seeding. <br />4) Drainage - A water table will not be encountered during mining. Slopes are flat enough <br />that "ovedand" runoff onto the site will not be a problem. No special provisions are <br />needed for surface or subsurtace drains. <br />Topsoil Application and Soil Reconstruction <br />1) After final shaping and grading have been completed, stockpiled topsoil should he <br />returned to the site. The area should then be tilled to a depth of 6 to 8 inches. Tillage <br />permits topsoil to bind with the existing soil material. Binding of soil layers prevents air <br />pockets, encourages root penetration, and prevents topsoil slippage on slopes. <br />2) In those areas where topsoil cannot be salvaged or inadequate amounts of topsoil are <br />available, it is suggested that large amounts of some organic matter be incorporated into <br />the top few inches of soil material. This will improve natural fertility and the water holding <br />capacity of the soil. Peat or wood chips will be utilized in these areas (depending on <br />availability and cost). <br />3) Topsoil removed, as the pit face progresses south will be direct hauled to final graded <br />slopes along neighboring north and south pit slopes. Topsoil placement and revegetation <br />will proceed concurrent with Phase one, phase two and phase 3 mining in incremental <br />blocks of several acres at a time depending on the area and topsoil volume available <br />from the mining block. Near the end of mining, the topsoil the remaining topsoil berms <br />may be utilized for the final pit Floor reclamation. <br />• Seed bed Preparation <br />1) Generally, a minimum of preparation is needed following the "topsoil binding" tillage or <br />incorporation of organic matter mentioned abonre. Operations that leave a smooth, firm <br />seedbed are needed. These will vary with soil conditions at the time. <br />2) On ttwse areas where equipment cannot be used, efforts to assure good seed soil <br />contact are needed. <br />Fertilization <br />1)'- All areas to be reclaimed should be fertilized according to soil test recommendations. <br />Soil tests should be taken following the incorporation of topsoil or organic matter. <br />2) To avoid leaching and volatilization, it is recommended that nitrogen be applied in two <br />applications. The first in the spring following seeding and the second in the spring the <br />following year. <br />3) Phosphate, potassium, lime, and trace minerals should be applied during seedbed <br />preparation and incorporated into the top 2 to 4 inches. <br />4) Follow up applications of fertilizer may be needed in the following years to assure <br />vigorous growth. The applications should be based on soil tests and the general <br />appearance of the established seeding. <br />• <br />