2009-04-24_INSPECTION - C1996084

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Revegetation The operator is planning to complete all remaining phases of the reclamation plan this field season. One remaining task is shrub transplants. The currently approved location is on a steep north-facing slope, near undisturbed brushy areas, shown on Figure 2.05.4-19a of the approved permit application. The operator is contemplating relocating this small '/2 acre area to the saddle above Fill 8, more in the center of the reclaimed area. This area, shown below, has the benefit of still being north-facing to keep soil temperatures lower, a concentration of runoff for water availability, and will result in shrubs and trees in an area that is surrounded by grassland, proving more edge for wildlife usage. A revision to the permit is likely to accommodate this change in the reclamation plan. Sep- ^.- ,.`1.. - "r??i+_. '°'?•'~-_ .:y ,ems .% ".? ,?" a. '... `-. '`.?,: `• -r. .e' ,may.. ?. ? ' ' F yr . k2A ANVOWAe ?. :*CIA ril M ? 'R N? - of rYcy _ ..nl _ -r ' .7` - ? _ + yam` µ~ -y r .. -? moo ` .? L ;1?`. -.:v '? •- s ?•• `?. Jqk r`i'.` ?'.? ??? ~°t? ?',?v ?wG. •jT iii - ? `. Revegetated areas are showing good signs of growth due to recent rains and warming soil temperatures. Forbs like alfalfa and cicer milkvetch are actively sprouting site-wide. Grazing by elk and deer is heavy at the present time. The shrub winterfat is abundant, especially in the eastern bench area. A decrease in soil erosion is noticeably in most areas due to the improving cover. The fact that the ponds are dry after the recent wet period also indicates reduced storm runoff. Hydro-seeded areas, like the east-facing steep slope shown below, appear to be progressing well with many grasses and forbs sprouting as well as visible signs of mulch still providing soil protection. Rills and gullies are few at the present time in this particular area.