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STEEP SLOPE RECLAMATION <br /> It is my interpretation of the Findings Document (see attachment) <br /> that revegetation of the mine bench outslopes was contemplated and <br /> required during initial permitting of the mine. This <br /> interpretation is supported by a memo from the Office of the <br /> Attorney General, attached, which was drafted during permitting of <br /> the facility. Correspondence contained in the files from Resources <br /> disputes this interpretation. In a number of instances, Resources <br /> has asserted that the outslopes were 'grand fathered' under the <br /> permanent program, and are therefore exempt from reclamation <br /> requirements. In my opinion, based upon site observation, it is <br /> probable that the mine bench outslopes have been affected by mining <br /> operations to a greater or lesser extent subsequent to August, <br /> 1977 . <br /> Further, it is apparent that the slopes still suffer from erosion. <br /> The rate of erosion could most likely be reduced by establishment <br /> of vegetative cover. To this end, a two step process is <br /> contemplated; first, prepare the outslopes for revegetation, and <br /> second is to accomplish revegetation. The reason that these two <br /> tasks are separated is because the former will mainly be a <br /> mechanical process of creating adequate places for the <br /> establishment of vegetation on the slopes. The latter will consist <br /> of gathering local, native species seed, and applying it in <br /> conjunction with commercially available seed onto the prepared <br /> slopes. <br /> If we decide that the scope of the 1997 effort will be to <br /> experiment at Mine 4, this process would be handled as a single <br /> bid. If we attempt to revegetate all mine bench and road <br /> outslopes, these tasks would probably best be handled as two <br /> separate bids. <br /> OUTSLOPE PREPARATION <br /> The proposed reclamation concept is to create small shelves on the <br /> mine bench outslopes in order to provide a stable environment for <br /> the establishment of vegetation. It has been documented by <br /> Resources consultants that the limiting factor in establishing <br /> plant growth on the outslopes is their steepness. It is thought <br /> that the creation of numerous terraces by mechanical means will <br /> provide an adequate seedbed for planting. The bid will state a <br /> desired outcome such as creation of some number of benches per acre <br /> each having a predetermined minimum dimension. Bidders will <br /> propose methods of accomplishing the task, and provide costs to do <br /> so on a Bid Schedule. <br /> An alternative to this project is to not attempt to prepare the <br /> outslopes prior to revegetation. Although this avenue will result <br /> in substantial savings, the chances of successfully revegetating <br /> the mine bench outslopes is significantly diminished. <br /> 5 <br />