2008-08-04_INSPECTION - M2008050

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(Page 2) MINE ID # OR PROSPECTING ID #: M-2008-050 INSPECTION DATE: 7-23-08 OBSERVATIONS INSPECTOR'S INITIALS GRM This inspection was conducted as part of the normal monitoring program established by the Colorado Division of Reclamation, Mining and Safety for mine permit applications. The October Mine Ore Stockpile is a proposed reclamation project located south of John Brown Canyon above Gateway, Colorado. The 0.46 acre project is the removal of approximately 7,500 tons of pre-law ore stockpile that was left in place and uncapped. Nuvemco has proposed the removal of the ore stockpile and reclamation of the stockpile area. Mick and Sue Carter, representatives for Nuvemco met DRMS inspector Russ Means on site for this pre-operational inspection. Peter Hayes, Michael Cunningham and Jared Ebert of DRMS also accompanied the inspector on site. The Public Notice required under Rule 1.6.2(b) was observed at the base of the ore stockpile area. Proposed permit boundaries were marked with t-posts painted orange at the top for easy identification. The ore stockpile is noted to take up approximately a '/ acre of the proposed disturbance area. It appears that the stockpile was placed over existing topsoil and strata. During reclamation the ore pile was not capped or re- vegetated. The inspector has raised a concern as to whether material proposed for topsoil at the bottom of John Brown would be beneficial. The piles located below have been in place for some time and little or no vegetation growing on them. A visual inspection notes the material is mostly rock debris and materials from a wash with little organics or other beneficial nutrients. Based on the site observations, DRMS is recommending removal of the ore stockpile and assessing the footprint. It may be that topsoil was covered up or a rock ledge was utilized. If topsoil was covered up then placing less suitable materials over it may not be beneficial. If there is a rock ledge, no re- vegetation would be required to begin with. Approximately 30 yards from the north edge of the proposed activities is a structure believed to be a sweat lodge. BLM is in the process of evaluating the site and requested measures be taken to protect the site. To the south on the other side of the small drainage is a BLM classified historical site. The mine camp is noted with debris from past mining activities and has also been noted as being important to protect. Based on the protection requirements for the camp a change in the proposed plan will be required. The inspector notes that there appears to be room on the west side of the county road to create a turn around for trucks which will pull up short of the camp area. The applicant agrees with this assessment and has submitted an amended map to note the change prior to publication of the public Notice. The ore pile sits on a relatively flat bench with drainages adjacent to but not in the permit area. Relatively simple stormwater measures can be employed to prevent sedimentation from impacting the drainages for the short duration of this project. The inspector notes no noxious weeds within the permit area but knapweed and Canadian thistle have been observed in the general area. The applicant should be prepared to address these weeds as part of the overall reclamation plan. No issues are noted that are not being addressed through the normal review process.