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PERMIT #: M-1977-197 <br />INSPECTOR'S INITIALS: GRM <br />INSPECTION DATE: March 15, 2011 <br />OBSERVATIONS <br />This inspection was conducted as part of the normal monitoring program of the Colorado Division of <br />Reclamation, Mining, and Safety (Division). Division inspector Russ Means was accompanied by Hard Rock <br />Paving representative Fred Baldwin. The Main Pit is a 112c permitted site located a just south of Salida, <br />Colorado on County Road 107. The last inspection of the site was in September of 2005. <br />The mine identification sign and affected area boundary markers are in place and in compliance with Rule <br />3.1.12. The sign is located at the entrance to the site off CR 107 as it enters the permit access point. Permit <br />boundaries are marked by t-posts, fencing, and signs that mark the affected areas well. <br />The mine is active with processed materials stockpiles noted. Excavation was noted along the southeast <br />corner of permit limits. The highwall height is approximately 40 feet and approximately 200 linear feet in <br />length. A pile of asphalt and concrete recycle was observed on the pit floor. As noted in the 2005 inspection, <br />none of this material may be used for backfill unless the operator files a Technical Revision to address the <br />requirements of Rule 3.1.5(9) for the importation of inert material for reclamation. No evidence of the use of <br />the material as backfill was observed. <br />No groundwater or stormwater drainage issues were observed. The pit floor grading appears to prevent most <br />stormwater from leaving the site. Floor materials appear to be alluvium that does not retain waters for more <br />than 72 hours. <br />Reclamation is noted along the north, east and west pit areas. Slopes appear to be 2:1 as required. <br />Vegetation on the west slope is mainly a few grass species and native shrubs with approximately 60 % cover. <br />Some annual weeds were also noted but not an issue. The north slope is similar in vegetation make up and <br />density. The eastern slope which was recently mined appears to have primarily annual weeds and no <br />sustainable long term vegetation yet. Maximum disturbance as of this date is reaching its final limits of <br />approximately 37 acres. <br />Overall the site is very well maintained. No unnecessary debris or trash was observed on site. All fuels and <br />containers are in approved secondary containment. No evidence of spills or leaks was noted. <br />The financial warranty has not been updated since 1999. The inspector notes reclamation of most slopes in <br />the pit area which will help reduce the impacts of inflation, overall disturbance increase, costs increases in <br />fuel, and seed mixes. The inspector will update the reclamation liability estimate and address the issue <br />through separate cover. <br />No issues, problems, or violations were noted or observed. <br />Responses to this inspection report should be directed to Russ Means at the Division of Reclamation, Mining, <br />and Safety, Grand Junction Field Office, 101 South 3rd Street, Room 301, Grand Junction, Colorado 81501, <br />phone no. 970-241-1117. <br />Page 2 of 4