2011-08-02_INSPECTION - M1996031

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OBSERVATIONS PERMIT #: M -1996 -031 INSPECTOR'S INITIALS: GRM INSPECTION DATE: July 19, 2011 This inspection was conducted as part of the normal monitoring program of the Colorado Division of Reclamation, Mining, and Safety (Division) for permitted sites. The Weimer #2 Gravel Pit is a 110c permitted site located northwest of Nucla, Colorado, west of the airport. The inspector met on site with West End Gravel Construction representative Bob Sutherland. The mine identification sign is missing and does not comply with Rule 3.1.12. The inspector is electing not to note the issue as a problem at this time. Rather, the operator is advised that a new sign is needed and should be replaced as soon as possible. If the sign is still missing during the next inspection the issue may be noted as a problem. Permit boundaries are marked by t -posts that clearly delineate the affected areas. The site is in reclamation. A letter from Sutherland, to the Division in 2002, notes that reclamation began in March of 2002. The letter states reclamation will be completed by April 2002. The earthwork is 90% complete with a few areas that need some final grading. A small stockpile of topsoil is still left to finish the tasks. Slopes are 3:1 or better. Based on recent heavy precipitation in the area stormwater controls, erosion, and sedimentation do not appear to be an issue at this time. A small blowout was observed in the southeast corner of the pit which the operator noted was to be repaired. Mr. Sutherland noted that the pit floor is high in clay values and might be used on an upcoming project. At this time it appears the slopes are ready for seeding. The inspector recommends to the operator that seeding be done this fall to protect the limited topsoil and take advantage of the abnormal moisture in the area. If vegetation is established, West End could request an acreage reduction that would shrink the permit and lower the reclamation bond required. The Division could make an issue here of the 5 year time frame to reclaim per the written documentation in the file. However, at this time, it appears there may be a mineable commodity still left. Please note that annual reports should reflect all activities on site in the future. If there is no significant progress towards final reclamation or reactivation of the pit prior to the next scheduled inspection a notice of violation maybe issued. The inspector observed that there are state - listed noxious weeds present on site. Mature knapweed was observed on the site as well as immature tamarisk. This is a problem for failure to employ weed control methods for state listed noxious weed species within the permitted area, and to reduce the spread of weeds to nearby areas as required by Section 3.1.10 (6) of the rule. The operator shall develop a weed control and management plan in accordance with Section 3.1.10 (6) of the Rule. This plan should be developed in consultation with the county extension agency, or weed control district office and should include specific control measures to be applied, a schedule for when control measures will be applied, and a post- treatment monitoring plan. The lack of noxious weed control is noted as a problem at the end of this report with corrective actions and date. No mine related debris or trash was observed. There is no equipment, fuel storage, or petroleum fluids noted on site. The financial warranty has not been reviewed since 2002. The inspector will update the bond based on current conditions and forward to the operator by separate cover. Please note that due to the length of time between reviews substantial increases in the price of seed and fuel may impact the estimated liability. 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. Page 2 of 3