2009-05-13_PERMIT FILE - C1981008A (2)

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The majority of the revegetated areas will be returned to a postmining land use of irrigated pasture including lands within the permit area which have not been disturbed, but which have had irrigation water shut-off in order to better control and manage surface and ground water within the mine area during operations. These latter lands occur in the south and north portion of the proposed permit expansion area. Topsoil replacement operations may be carried out during most of the year, the exception being those periods when wet conditions would preclude handling of the topsoil materials. Prior to replacement of topsoil, the graded spoil will be ripped to reduce compaction. Detailed topsoil handling and replacement plans are provided in Section 2.05.4(2)(d), Topsoil (Redistribution). The optimum seeding season for establishment of irrigated pasture is during the spring as early as soil moisture conditions allow for tillage and seeding operations. As a result of irrigation, seeding may be carried out as late as July 15. This will allow for a 75-90 day growing season, enough time to establish an adequate stand capable of over-wintering. Fall dormant seedings may be made into annual grain stubble if the potential for competition from established weedy species is not great. For situations where temporary stabilization is required outside of the normal seeding periods, and the stabilization period is less than one year, an annual grain cover crop of barley or winter wheat will be used, Seed Mix #2. At times, the size or shape of the retopsoiled areas and shape of the reclaimed area in relation to a management unit may be insufficient to warrant establishment of the perennial irrigated pasture species initially. When this occurs, and the period before establishment of permanent irrigated pasture will extend beyond a year, Seed Mix #3 - Temporary Reclamation, will be used. This mix will provide interim stabilization as well as organic matter benefits when incorporated during tillage and seedbed preparation prior to seeding of the irrigated pasture seed mixes. Prior to final seedbed preparation, soil conditioning and weed control tillage will be carried out through the use of chisel plowing and disking. Chisel plowing will relieve any topsoil compaction, will aid in controlling weedy species, and will leave the site in a temporary toughened condition reducing wind and water erosion potential. Disking will be used to condition soil, break up clods, and control weeds through tillage prior to seeding. If annual weeds are a problem, several tillage operations may be required to get adequate control. Harrowing and cultipacking prior to seeding will be conducted as needed in order to provide the smooth, firm seedbed required. In any areas that may be poorly drained, tillage will be timed in order to reduce bogging, excessive compaction (Revised 1-15-03) 2.05.4(2)(e) - 3 A -58 Ap,Prny0 13 Ala y 2009