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'- 3 i <br />Abandonment (plugging and sealing) of coreholes and drillholes, and reclamation of the <br />associated exploration disturbance <br />The proposed exploration locations are generally in areas previously disturbed by historic coal <br />exploration or mining activities and/or agricultural operations, and have been located adjacent to <br />existing county roads, developed coal haulage roads or ranch roads, where feasible. It is anticipated <br />that no road construction will be required to access the sites, since most are adjacent to existing roads <br />or undeveloped jeep trails. The proposed activities are planned for the period of mid-May through <br />November, when favorable ground conditions prevail. However, Sage Creek proposes to drill two of <br />the exploration holes during the winter months. <br />Cultural resource surveys have been completed for all 15 locations. There were no significant <br />archaeological or cultural resources identified at any the sites and a finding of no effect on historic <br />properties. Sage Creek has consulted with the Colorado Division of Wildlife (CDOW) regarding <br />potential impacts to wildlife resources and CDOW did not identify any long-term impacted resources <br />requiring avoidance or specific mitigation measures. <br />Reclamation of exploration disturbance areas will involve plugging and sealing the coreholes, allowing <br />the mud pits to dry and then backfilling the pits, regrading the drill pads, replacing windrowed "A" and <br />"B" horizon material, and reseeding the areas. Sage Creek has developed reclamation seed mixtures in <br />consultation with surface owners and CDOW. Two reclamation seed mixtures will be used: 1) a <br />dryland pasture mixture; and, 2) a rangeland mixture. For purposes of reclamation liability and <br />bonding, Sage Creek has estimated the reclamation cost for the proposed exploration disturbance at <br />approximately $84,010. <br />We hope to initiate the proposed exploration activities as soon as possible, following receipt of all <br />required approvals; therefore, we would appreciate your consideration and cooperation in facilitating <br />timely review and approval of this submittal. Once you have had opportunity to review this submittal <br />package, please feel free to contact either Mr. Scott Cowman, with Twentymile Coal Company, at <br />970-870-2751, or the undersigned at 970-846-5112 with any questions or comments. <br />Best regards, <br />(for Sage Creek Holdings, LLC) <br />L_Ja <br />John Weinman <br />Project Manager <br />Attachments <br />cc: Routt County Clerk and Recorder <br />Scott Cowman. Twentymile Coal Company <br />Hydro-Environmental Solutions, Inc. <br />5710` Street, Suite B <br />P.O. Box 772996 <br />Steamboat Springs, CO 80477 <br />970-846-5112