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<br />be provided throughout the pond, especially along the shoreline. <br />We are committed to enhancing the habitat for fish and other <br />aquatic organisms by adding structures such as logs, concrete <br />blocks and possibly used tires to create "artificial reefs". <br />These will offer cover to fish and provide clean and firm <br />substrates for growth of algae and aquatic invertebrates. <br />Fish Species Management <br />strong biological grounds suggest that it is impossible to create <br />long term (over six years), self-sustaining fish populations <br />in closed ponds, especially with any angler pressure. The <br />existing pond and the potential pond in Phase 3 are fed by <br />groundwater and as such are presently sustaining a fishery. <br />We do not know what the angling pressure might be in the future <br />but in insignificant at the present time. <br />Vegetation <br />Algae and higher aquatic plants (emergent and subemergent) are <br />essential features of ponds and lakes. Two objectives of <br />revegetation on mined lands, applicable to sand and gravel pits, <br />are 1) controlling erasion (which we are obligated to do within <br />our mining permit) and 2) providing food and cover for wildlife <br />species. Rather than letting the area revegetate naturally <br />and due to our permit obligations, we plan to revegetate all <br />slopes and disturbed areas of the mining sites as soon as mining <br />activity ceases in particular areas. Revegetation activities <br />include most if not all of the following; <br />1. replace topsoil to aid plant growth (generally 4-6"). <br />2. plant a variety of species, mostly native or appropriate <br />non-native species for erosion control and permanent <br />cover, but unlikely to form dense stands <br />resistant to natural succession. <br />3. mulch sown crops with appropriate weed-free straw or <br />hay to promote growth. <br />4. place some hay or other vegetation cuttings on the pond <br />bottoms to help establish detritus food chains. <br />5. place "muck" from nearby wetlands in any new ponds to <br />help establish aquatic plants and animals. <br />fi. Ieave some ef=-_fre?dreline and some islands free of <br />vegetation to serve as loafing areas for waterfowl and <br />shorebirds. <br />Specific practices we will use when re-planting around the <br />existing or newly developed gravel pit: <br />1. soil testing as applicable for plant species selection. <br />2. plant maintenance for some time to insure survival. <br />3. do not plant trees or shrubs in areas to be submerged <br />for long periods. <br />4. plant trees and shrubs in configurations where they will <br />provide horizontal and vertical diversity. <br />Hearing on Permit No. M-1987-038 <br />Bayfield Pit No. 1