2010-05-24_REPORT - C1981014 - Laserfiche WebLink

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2009 Reclamation Report Southfield Mine As previously stated during 2006, Mr. Kent Crofts of I.M.E., Inc., did the interim revegetation sampling and reporting at the mine site, the refuse pile area and at the Loadout site. According to the conclusion of the report, as had been recommended by the Division, 15 cover transects, 30 production transect and 30 shrub density transects were sampled on each reclaimed site. Comparisons of the various revegetation data required are well detailed in IME's 2006 Monitoring Report. It is IME's opinion that, based on their 2006 interim monitoring with respect to woody plant density for the mine portal area and the warm season species diversity, the existing Permit Revegetation Success Standards should be revised due to inconsistency for comparing vegetation. IME recommends that EFCI submits a Minor Revision to modify the existing revegetation success standards in the permit document. Limited discussions for the modification are ongoing. Weed Control Activities One small plot of Knappweed has been identified adjacent to and at the west edge of the parking lot site in the eastern portion of the Vento property. The agent with the Fremont County Weed control Agency sprayed the Knappweed with the certified herbicide during 2005 and again in the 2006 season. During 2007, given the heavy vegetation growth in the region that season and the resulting demand on the county weed control agency, the agency had insufficient time to treat the Knappweed at Southfield. Consequently, EFCI pulled and disposed of many of the Knappweed at the mine site. During midsummer 2008, the Fremont County Weed Control Agency again sprayed the Knappweed with the appropriate certified herbicide. During 2009, only one Knapweed was identified and EFCI sprayed two separate applications of Roundup herbicide to the weed (the Fremont County Weed Control Agent questioned if it was actually a Knappweed). EFCI will continue to inspect these areas and will implement necessary weed control measures consistent with approved management plans. During 2006, Dr. Corley as land owner of the Corley property, sprayed Tamarisk shrubs along the mine entrance road near Pond 5 and another adjacent to the Magpie Diversion ditch at the east permit boundary. Given that the spraying was executed by the land owner, EFCI does not have information on details of the spraying procedure used. C onclucinnc Precipitation during 2009 winter and summer months was ample and vegetation at the Southfield sites continues to do well. Various herds of Elk numbering from 10 to 40 head were observed grazing on the reclamation sites at various times during the year. The Elk tend to graze through the area for several days, then leave the area and return in a few weeks. This holistic style of grazing is believed to be beneficial and stimulating to the revegetation process. The trees and shrub seedlings planted during May, 2004 are becoming more noticeable as they continue to grow 6