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III. COMMENTS -COMPLIANCE <br /> Below are comments on the inspection. The comments include discussion of observations made <br /> during the inspection. Comments also describe any enforcement actions taken during the inspection <br /> and the facts or evidence supporting the enforcement action. <br /> Reclamation Success <br /> • Within the reclaimed areas, variability in revegetation success is readily apparent. The <br /> southern and western portions of Mining Area 1 have communities that are well-established <br /> and diverse. However, vegetation densities and desirability decrease in the northeastern <br /> portions of Area 1. <br /> • The success in some areas may be a function of topography, e.g. north-facing slopes will <br /> retain moisture better than will areas exposed to sun and wind. However, the Division <br /> wonders if the variability observed may be also due to chemistry of the topsoil. <br /> • A review of the DRMS permit file does not indicate that topsoil has been previously <br /> evaluated for its ability to support vegetation. Maps in the Annual Reclamation Reports do <br /> show Subsoil sample pit locations; has topsoil sampling and analysis ever been done for the <br /> site? <br /> • The Division wonders if perhaps soil amendments may be necessary, in order to achieve <br /> vegetative cover sufficient to grant Phase II and Phase III bond release? <br /> • The reclaimed areas do appear to be stable with respect to erosion. <br /> Hamilton Mine C-1991-078 14-Apr-2009 <br /> -2- <br />