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Significant challenges associated with the project included construction of stable backfill slopes at grades of up <br />to 2H:1 V in the portal area and along the road, restoration of stable, high gradient ephemeral channels (8 <br />channels were originally planned; 10 were ultimately constructed based on site specific considerations), and the <br />need for effective stabilization measures to minimize erosion on the steep backfill slopes, particularly during the <br />first couple of growing seasons. These challenges were addressed through development of more detailed <br />reclamation specifications for bid document preparation, selection of a reclamation contractor with the proper <br />equipment, operators, and expertise to complete the project on schedule and in compliance with the approved <br />specifications, and conscientious oversight of the project by CAM's reclamation and permitting consultant, J.E. <br />Stover & Associates. The project was initiated in May, and dirt work/channel construction activities were <br />completed by late June/early July. Slopes were extensively roughened by track-hoe gouging, and a quick <br />growing annual cover crop ("Quickguard" sterile hybrid) was hand broadcast immediately following <br />completion of grading and surface roughening. Dormant season seeding of the permanent perennial seedmix <br />was hand broadcast in mid-November, followed by hand spreading and crimping of certified noxious weed-free <br />straw mulch. Small stacks of straw bales had been scattered throughout the site by the contractor as grading <br />operations were completed, since there was no vehicle access to most of the site following completion of <br />grading operations along the road. <br />Over-all, the project appears to have been very successful. The graded backfill slopes in the portal area blend in <br />very well and appear to conform closely to the original topography. While there are segments of steep roadcut <br />exposed along portions of the reclaimed road (as approved in the plan based on backfill stability <br />considerations), the road reclamation generally blends into the adjacent steep slope and outcrop topography. <br />There has been minimal erosion to date, and with the exception of minor settling cracks in the portal area <br />backfill (expected to fill in with time), there have been no indications of potential slope instability. The sterile <br />cover crop provided modest soil protection by late summer/fall of 2007, and excellent cover by early summer <br />2008. Initial establishment of perennial shrubs, forbs, and grasses appears quite promising in most areas. <br />Permanent channels have functioned well with essentially no erosion. All in all, the operator is deserving of <br />recognition for an excellent job with respect to planning, permitting, implementation, and timely and successful <br />completion of a challenging reclamation project. <br />Representative project photos are included on the following pages. <br />2