2008-04-15_REVISION - M1980244 (309)

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• 4.2 Topography and Elevation The site lies in high altitude, relatively dry mountainous terrain. The site is characterized by rolling hills with numerous peaks and valleys, some quite steep. The site topography has been locally changed by mining activities over the last 100 years or more. The approximate range in elevation of the project area is from a minimum elevation of approximately 9,000 feet above mean sea level ("amsl") near the toe of the VLF to a maximum elevation of approximately 10,800 feet amsl at the crest of the hill east of the East Cresson Mine area and west of the intersection of County Road 83, County Road 831, and County Road 81. The average elevation at the site is approximately 9,900 feet amsl. 4.3 Land Use The area of the Cresson Project presently is utilized for CC&V's existing mining operations subject to current mining and reclamation permits issued by the MLRB, for mineral exploration activities, for livestock grazing, and for wildlife habitat. A small portion of the area within the permit boundary has been used in the past for aggregate screening and removal (Cameron Pad) and a separate MLRB construction materials permit is maintained for that area (M-1991-134). As part of the MLE application the • Cameron Pad will be incorporated into the Cresson Mine permit and become part of the ECOSA. Teller County removes overburden material from the SGOSA. From time to time, other public entities are given authorization by CC&V to remove earth materials (usually overburden) from the site for use elsewhere, following testing to confirm suitability. CC&V will seek OMLR concurrence for any prolonged rock removal activities. The areas adjacent to the MLE permit boundary are utilized for mineral exploration activities, wildlife habitat, and livestock grazing. There are also residential areas of Cripple Creek and Victor located adjacent to the permit boundary. The area within the permit boundary is privately owned and controlled, and controlled public access is limited to certain defined areas within the permit boundary used for tourism and education of visitors (e.g., the American Eagles Overlook, the Vindicator Trail system, and tours given of the Cresson Project operation). The general area surrounding the Cresson Project is zoned by Teller County as agricultural land; however Teller County recognizes the Cresson Project area as a historical precious metal mining district with recent and ongoing mining. The Cresson Project lies entirely within the Teller County designated Cripple Creek Mining Overlay • Cripple Creek & Victor Gold Mining Company Cresson Project Mine Life Extension 4-2