2011-10-17_REVISION - C1980007 (2)

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Topsoil storage areas are located on the east side of the surface facilities. This is known as the main topsoil stockpile and will be used during reclamation to cover the majority of the disturbance to a depth of 12 to 18 inches. Other topsoil and subsoil piles are located south of the lower refuse pile and on the reclaimed benches. These piles will primarily be used to cover the refuse pile with 18 to 24 inches of soil. Of the approximate 17,155 acres in the permit area, approximately 460 acres are disturbed, which primarily includes surface facilities and methane drainage well pads. Upon cessation of mining at the West Elk Mine, reclamation will return the disturbed land to a rangeland and wildlife habitat land use. Some reclamation activities will occur during the life of the mine as areas cease to be used for mining activities. Final reclamation includes sealing the mine portals, removing the surface facilities, and returning all disturbed areas to the approximate original contour. The waste pile will be shaped to blend into adjacent topography. The mine area will be smooth - graded, and compacted areas will be ripped or scarified to eliminate slippage surfaces, establishing a suitable bond for the overlying seedbed material. Topsoil, which has been salvaged during construction of the surface facilities, will be redistributed over the disturbed area. Drainage control will be retained until the revegetation operation is underway and erosion is under control. Following the distribution of topsoil and final grading, the newly shaped surface will be prepared for planting. Surface preparation will include loosening and roughening the surface by disking, harrowing, or dragging. Various conditioners and neutralizers may be used to modify the seedbed conditions to ensure successful establishment of a vegetative cover. The site will then be planted using West Elk's Permanent and Riparian Seeding mix. Various species of shrubs will also be planted. 18