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III. COMMENTS -COMPLIANCE <br />Below are comments on the inspection. The comments include discussion of observations made <br />during the inspection. Comments also describe any enforcement actions taken during the inspection <br />and the facts or evidence supporting the enforcement action. <br />This was a complete inspection conducted by Kent Gorham of the Colorado Division of <br />Reclamation, Mining, and Safety (Division). Vince Massaroti of New Elk Coal Company <br />(NECC) was present during the field inspection. All that remains within the small permit area <br />are 1.2 acres at the NW-1 ventilation shaft, seeded and mulched in late 2004. The gate to <br />the gas road remains locked where the entry signs are posted. Road improvements were <br />noted along the gas road although these improvements are not related to the coal permit. <br />The weather was clear and cold with only a slight breeze. Ground conditions were excellent. <br />Availability of Records <br />The public copy of the mine records is now kept at the New Elk Coal Company office, <br />located at 122 West First Street, Trinidad CO, 81082, phone 719-845-0090. Ron Thompson <br />of NECC was present during the records inspection. All records were found in compliance <br />as detailed on page 2a of this report. <br />Signs and Markers <br />The mine identification remains posted along the fence immediately north of the locked gate. <br />The sign and the information displayed is in compliance with Rules 4.02 and 4.30.2(3). <br />Markers defining the perimeter of the disturbed and reclaimed area are present, but require <br />painting or PVC pipe to clearly identify the reclaimed/ undisturbed boundary. A few <br />additional markers would be beneficial, especially where the reclaimed road leads to the <br />ventilation shaft pad. <br />Revegetation <br />The site remains essentially unchanged from the previous month's inspection. Nothing <br />unusual or unexpected was observed. Vegetative cover appears sufficient to control <br />erosion. Rills and gullies were not observed and have not been a problem since the site was <br />reclaimed. No evidence of livestock grazing was noted. Wildlife usage was apparent.