2011-03-30_INSPECTION - M1979010

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PERMIT #: M-1979-010 INSPECTOR'S INITIALS: GRM INSPECTION DATE: March 16, 2011 OBSERVATIONS This inspection was conducted as part of the normal monitoring program of the Colorado Division of Reclamation, Mining, and Safety (Division). Division inspector Russ Means was accompanied by ACA Products representative Michael Coleman. The Avery Pit is a 108 acre, 112c permitted site located a just south of Buena Vista, Colorado on Gregg Drive. The last inspection of the site was in September of 2005. The mine identification sign and affected area boundary markers are in place and in compliance with Rule 3.1.12. The sign is located at the entrance to the site as it enters the permit access point. Permit boundaries are marked by t-posts, and fencing that clearly marked the affected areas. The mine is active. Within the permit area large amounts of processed materials stockpiles, landscaping boulders, and rip-rap material were noted. A large conveyor system stretches the length of the pit from west to east. Excavation was noted as progressing towards the wet from the east end of the pit which is consistent with approved mine plans. Highwalls are 15 to 30 feet in height on average. Total linear exposure is approximately 1200 feet which includes areas under backfill along the south and the working face in the west. The inspector noted numerous pieces of heavy equipment working to support ongoing processing. Storage bins made from portable blocking were noted and the concrete plant was active. The overall estimated disturbance acreage of the pit area is approximately 40 acres. Reclamation is noted along the south and north pit edges. Slopes are to be 3:1 or better as required along half of the south pit edge. Seeding of the southern slopes occurred two years ago. Vegetation appears to be primarily annual weeds. However some grasses were observed scattered along the slope. A secondary seeding maybe required later. The northern slopes appear to be closer to 2.5 to 1. While not currently approved, the operator hopes to amend the permit to continuing mining in that direction in the future. Vegetation in this area is doing better. Native grasses are invading from undisturbed the adjacent fields. Cover is approximately 70%. No noxious weeds were observed at this time. No groundwater or stormwater drainage issues were observed. The pit floor grading appears to prevent most stormwater from leaving the site. Pit floor materials appear to be alluvium that does not retain waters for more than 72 hours. No sedimentation or erosion issues were observed. The financial warranty has not been updated since 1999. The inspector will update the reclamation liability estimate and address the issue through separate cover. No issues, problems, or violations were noted or observed. Responses to this inspection report should be directed to Russ Means at the Division of Reclamation, Mining, and Safety, Grand Junction Field Office, 101 South 3rd Street, Room 301, Grand Junction, Colorado 81501, phone no. 970-241-1117. Inspection Contact Address Michael Coleman ACA Products, Inc. P.O. Box 1887 Buena Vista, CO 81211 Page 2 of 5