1988-04-29_PERMIT FILE - C1981008A (42)

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Topsoil material redistribution and associated graded spoil suitability determinations (Tab 21) follow the same timetable as salvage operations. If ground conditions permit, topsoil material redistribution may be conducted in months other than those indicated in the reclamation timetable (Figure 19-1). Tillage and seedbed preparation, cover cropping, and seeding of topsoiled areas is conducted in the next favorable growing season after topsoil redistribution, weather permitting. Therefore, the schedule for these activities will parallel the topsoil redistribution schedule in many cases. Tree and shrub planting is performed during the late winter/early spring and late fall to achieve optimum success rate. Tab 22 details the Revegetation Plan. Fence construction is performed from March to November. Construction is interrupted only by inclement weather. Maintenance and management activities are conducted throughout the year. The timing of these activities is dependent upon the specific activity. Fence maintenance and removal of trespass livestock are conducted throughout the year. Interseeding and any necessary reseeding is conducted immediately prior to the most favorable growing season. Erosion monitoring and repair is conducted year-round as ground conditions permit. Surface stabilization and the plan for rill and gully monitoring and repair are presented in Tab 22 "Revegetation Plan". Projected Reclamation Schedules The projected reclamation schedule for the coal resource areas in which mining will occur during the life of the Nucla Mine is presented on Exhibits 19-1 and 19-2. The projected acres affected and graded in the Nucla Mine permit area are included in Table 19-1. Premining activities such as sediment pond, haul road, and facility construction will commence in Nucla East during 1988 so that mining operations can begin in 1989. The annual projections of acres graded presented in Table 19-1 are based upon certain basic considerations. First, a sufficient amount of space must be available before backfilling can commence. Initial cut material must be removed and stockpiled and coal excavated before backfilling is begun. Second, the point in time which backfilling and grading of mining blocks can begin is based upon coal excavation cycle times and pit configuration. Cycle times are dependent upon factors such as pit configurations, excavator performance, and customer demand. Third, once backfilling and grading begins, 19-3 Revised 08/19/88