2011-04-06_REVISION - C2009087 (4)

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Peabody Sage Creek Mine SL-1 Phase 11 Bond Release Request II. PHASE II BOND RELEASE DOCUMENTATION March 2011 This application represents the formal request for Phase II Bond Release at PSCM of 462.4 acres of reclaimed area that complies with applicable revegetation success criteria set forth in Rule 4.15.8. Map 1, Phase HBond Request Area, shows the location of the 462.4 acres included in this request. The amount of bond requested for Phase II release is $966,743. The rationale for this request is documented in Attachment G, Bond Release Calculation. • . Summary of Reclamation and Management History Reclamation (i.e., topsoil replacement and revegetation) was begun in 1978 and continued through 2005. This activity is documented in the Annual Reclamation Reports. Reclamation management is a continuing effort that includes: • Rill and Gully Maintenance. Spring rill and gully surveys are conducted to identify erosional features resulting from spring snowmelt and runoff. The survey results are portrayed on maps and submitted to the Division, which is followed up by on-the-ground maintenance to rectify the problem areas. Weed Control. Reclaimed areas and mine related disturbances, such as roadsides and facilities, are monitored for noxious weed infestations. Monitoring is conducted through formal revegetation monitoring program or as qualitative observations by PSCM reclamation personnel. If noxious weed infestations occur at levels that may interfere with successful reclamation, or are detrimental to stand quality, weed control is implemented. Application of herbicides has been carried out by two primary agents, outside services or PSCM Reclamation Department personnel. Interseeding of Previously Seeded Areas. Interseeding is performed when necessary to ensure • adequate vegetative cover is maintained to meet the revegetation criteria set forth in the approved PAP. Past monitoring at the Seneca IT Mine shows that adequate perennial vegetation cover is 3