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PERMIT #: M-1983-159 <br />INSPECTOR'S INITIALS: GRM <br />INSPECTION DATE: August 3, 2010 <br />OBSERVATIONS <br />This inspection was conducted as part of the Colorado Division of Reclamation, Mining, and Safety normal monitoring <br />program. The Gleason Pit is a 112c permitted gravel pit located south of Redvale, Colorado at the end of 37.00 Road. <br />The operator was contacted but could not accompany the inspector on site. <br />The mine identification sign and affected area boundary markers are in place and in compliance with Rule 3.1.12. The <br />sign is located at the entrance to the site where it enters the permit boundary. Permit boundaries are marked by t-posts and <br />geological features that are easily identifiable. <br />Current observations note that the total disturbance area is at or just over the 10 acre limit with excavation to the north and <br />west. Annual reports note some reclamation was done in 2006 and 2007 along the southeastern edge. The inspector notes <br />some re-grading and marginal plant growth in this area. The area in question does not meet the reclamation standards for <br />the site at this time. The eastern highwall and the area just south of the access ramp should be totally reclaimed at this <br />point according to the mine and reclamation plan commitments. The inspector cautions the operator to keep in mind the <br />10 acre maximum disturbance commitments Two loaders, several stackers and conveyors, and multiple stockpiles were <br />noted on site. Mining has been done at 3:1 slot dozing with highwalls on three edges. Mining around power poles <br />generally requires a minimum 25 foot buffer zone for stability. It appears the operator is getting close to those limits. Per <br />the mining plan these poles are to be relocated as mining advances. Please verify with the power company the stability <br />setback or relocation requirements <br />This site has been noted as having some external trash deposition issues. The inspector noted in 2004 the junk vehicles <br />and some trash along the west border area. Photo documentation of current conditions clearly shows a continued use of <br />the site as a trash dump by someone. It appears that some household and ranch debris may also be being buried on site as <br />well. This may be a county land use or State Health Department issue. Due to the fact that the debris is within the mine <br />reclamation permit area, the operator will be responsible for removal of the debris as part of final reclamation. Burial is <br />not an option for chemical drums, petroleum containers, etc which were observed in this area. It would be in the <br />operator's best interest to have the parties responsible for the trash remove it. If that is not possible, removal of the trash <br />must be accomplished somehow. The debris issue is being noted as an issue of concern. Failure by the operator to correct <br />the issue prior to the next inspection may result in the Division issuing a possible violation, notifying Montrose County <br />and the Health Department about a possible illegal landfill, and significantly increasing the reclamation liability bond to <br />cover proper disposal of the noted materials. <br />Noxious and/or problematic weed infestation (knapweed and thistle) was observed within the affected area. The <br />infestation, if not controlled, will most likely hinder and/or delay successful reclamation of this site and contribute to off- <br />site spreading and establishment of these weeds. A weed control plan developed in consultation with, and approved by, <br />the appropriate local weed control authority must be submitted as a technical revision to this permit. Weed infestation is <br />noted as a problem with the corrective action(s) and correction date specified in this report. Significant progress toward <br />control of on-site weeds must be demonstrated within three years to avoid potential Board action. <br />The inspector noted two 55 gallon barrels near a steel access platform. One barrel was empty and lying on its side. The <br />second barrel was half full of an oil product. Neither barrel was properly stored in secondary containment and away from <br />potential damage. The standing barrel had rust and standing water observed on its top. The operator needs to remove the <br />barrels from the site or place in a proper secondary containment structure. The improper storage of petroleum products is <br />noted as a problem, with corrective actions and a correction date within this report.No stormwater, erosion, or sedimentation issues were observed. Monsoonal precipitation in the area <br /> has been heavy <br />lately with no negative impacts on or off the site. <br />General pit operations and mining appear to be satisfactory. Reclamation commitments have not been addressed as much <br />as should be. The operator needs to address some housekeeping issues on site. Improper storage of oil, noxious weeds, <br />and a potential illegal landfill must be addressed by the corrective action dates noted with this report. <br />Responses to this inspection reportshould be directed to Russ Means at the Division of Reclamation, Mining, and Safety, <br />Grand Junction Field Office, 101 South 3rd Street, Room 301, Grand Junction, Colorado 81501, phone no. 970-241-1117. <br />Page 3 of 12