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Chapter V <br /> A study, and tests aimed at developing the most effective methods for achieving the <br /> • post-mining contours, has been carried out over the last permit term. Final reclamation, <br /> will apply the methods developed and tested as appropriate to the topography, and in <br /> order to achieve the desired results. <br /> In general, mechanical means will be employed to flatten the crest of the cut above the <br /> roads only if necessary to achieve the reclamation objectives: stability; the most <br /> moderate slope possible; blending of the area below the original cut with the natural <br /> topography above. <br /> For the final reclamation phase, a trackhoe will be used to further moderate the slope <br /> along the downhill side of the road. <br /> The safety of the equipment operator is of concern, given the very steep topography. <br /> Mechanical alteration of the terrain is hazardous, and any such operations must be <br /> done subject to safety considerations. <br /> Ditches and culverts will remain to improve the watershed. Sediment ponds will be <br /> reclaimed. <br /> The final slopes above and below the roads will be revegetated. <br /> • Stability of the slopes, given the steep natural terrain, is of paramount concern for final, <br /> reclamation. <br /> If Mid-Continent were required to place large amounts of fill against the road cuts for <br /> the purpose of eliminating the road cuts altogether, we feel that serious stability <br /> problems would occur. Significant erosion of the fill, and any topsoil placed over it, is <br /> quite likely. <br /> An extensive study of the configurations, geotechnical conditions and avalanche <br /> danger of the roads has been completed and is included in App. V-E-2. <br /> As noted in the study, the danger of eroding fill is significant: <br /> • Avalanches are a natural phenomenon in the area and the development of the haul <br /> roads or mine benches has not increased the avalanche danger. Haul roads or <br /> mine benches act as artificial barriers to individidual avalanche paths and reduce <br /> their energy. They are thus beneficial in reducing the avalanche hazard. <br /> Avalanches contribute to increased erosion of such fills. <br /> 22(a) <br /> Revised 1192 <br />