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1998 Annual Reclamation Report -Raton Creek Mine <br />Page 2 <br />Additional Monitoring_Information: <br />Revegetation Evaluation <br />EFMC monitored the site for vegetation establishment in accordance with the 3rd year <br />vegetation evaluation requirement of the permit application. This evaluation was completed by <br />IIvtE of Yampa, Colorado. The report of the vegetation evaluation, attached hereto as Exhibit A, <br />concludes that vegetative establishment is adequate and that reseeding is not recommended at this <br />time. <br />Soil Samgline <br />EFMC sampled the top 9 to 12 inches of soil in the non-topsoiled area of refuse embankrnent. A <br />series of 6 composite samples were obtained from rows of test pits running up the slopes in the <br />area shown on the accompanying L998 Annual Reclamation Map. <br />Soil sample data aze included in Exhibit B of this report. A review of these data show that while <br />the coarse fragment percentage is marginal to unsuitable (similar to preliminary studies), the soil <br />within the sampled area is otherwise suitable according to the Wyoming Topsoil Substitute <br />Suitability Criteria. <br />Noxious Weed Monitorine <br />Two small areas of noxious weed infestations were found an treated during the reporting period. <br />Jn July, a group of western whorled milkweed were observed by the DMG in Watershed <br />Diversion Ditch No. 1. Though not a listed weed with the Soil Conservation Service, EFMC <br />proceeded to spray the few plants with an herbicide. In addition, EFMC found a group of <br />Canada Thistle in a 20' by 20' patch in the reclaimed azea east of the shop building. These <br />plants were similazly treated with an herbicide. EFMC plans to monitor the existing noxious <br />weed locations as well as the entire reclaimed area in the coming growing season, and will <br />continue to mitigate noxious weeds establishment. <br />Conclusions <br />Permanent vegetation on the mine site, both on topsoiled and non-topsoiled areas, continues to <br />show adequate establishment. EFMC will continue to closely monitor erosion control and <br />vegetation success on the reclaimed areas. Overall reclamation of the disturbed areas continues <br />to effectively minimize the mining impacts and promote establishment of the site to its approved <br />postmining land use capabilities. <br />