_INSPECTION - C1981008 (45) - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

property. Reveaetation • Portions of the revegetated areas of the southern portion of the Benson property west of 2700 Road were traversed on foot, A band of forage kochia (Photo 3) was observed near the runoff diversion ditch constructed along the top of the fill slope above the future BB Road alignment. Forage kochia is an introduced half shrub, which provides excellent forage for livestock and deer has been proposed for inclusion in future dryland pasture seed mixes. Some 4-wing saltbrush was also observed on the older dryland pasture seeding. Although both of these species have been discussed with New Horizon as possible inclusions in further seed mixes, neither forage kochia nor 4-wing saltbrush are included in an approved seed mix at the New Horzion Mine. NOV CV-2010-002 is issued for using an unapproved seed mix. Rule 4.15.1(2) requires that all revegetation shall be in compliance with plans submitted under 2.05.3 and 2,05.4, as approved by the Division in the permit. Seed Mix # 8 is the approved dryland pasture seed mix in the permit and it does not include these species. • Portions of the Lloyd property were seeded in late fall 2009. A large rectangular area planted with winter wheat appeared to be flourishing (Photo 4). Grasses were beginning to sprout in areas seeded last fall with the dryland pasture mix, but identification as to species could not be determined due to the growth stage. An older dryland seeded stand further to the east exhibited fair to good cover dominated by crested wheatgrass, The recently seeded south-facing fill slope on the Lloyd and Benson parcels (parallel to the future BB Road) is presently dominated by annual weeds. This area will need to be observed later in the growing season to determine if perennials are becoming established. Roads • Montrose County was in the midst of a project designed to improve the surface of 2700 Road in the immediate vicinity of the Intersections with BB Road and the mine's concrete- paved truck crossing. A crew was applying and mixing a fine, white powdery substance (likely hydrated lime or fly ash) into the gravel surface, presumably to improve the load- carrying capacity of the road, • Segments of 2700 Road and BB Road reconstructed by WFC in 2008 have not yet been paved with asphalt. New Horizon Mine C-1981-008 3-May-2010 -5-