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CONFIDENTIAL <br /> RECLAMATION RELATED ACTIVITIES AT THE COAL BASIN MINE, 1996 <br /> This report discusses the various activities undertaken by the <br /> Division of Minerals and Geology related to the Coal Basin project <br /> during 1996. The report discusses activities and observations <br /> related to spring run off, site maintenance, progress of <br /> reclamation construction during 1996 and field work accomplished in <br /> support of future reclamation bids. The rationale for field <br /> directed changes to this years work are included. Recommendations <br /> for future work and a discussion of areas of concern are included <br /> at the end of the report. <br /> SUMMARY <br /> Significant reclamation related activity occurred at the Coal Basin <br /> Mine during 1996. Public involvement at the site and Division <br /> presence in local communities was strengthened. Interaction with <br /> other concerned agencies, particularly the Forest Service, Office <br /> of Surface Mining and Colorado Department of Public Health and the <br /> Environment was increased, focused and constructive. <br /> As a result of four reclamation construction projects, about 91 <br /> acres were reclaimed in 1996. An additional fifteen acres <br /> revegetated in 1995 were reseeded as well. Results of the 1996 <br /> revegetation experiments were qualitatively evaluated. New test <br /> plots were established using native seed collected at the mine. An <br /> experimental method of preparing the long, steep mine bench <br /> outslopes for revegetation was implemented on three acres of steep <br /> outslopes near Mine 1. A small native grass and forb 'nursery' was <br /> established, and an agreement for a private seed company to grow <br /> native plants collected from local seed sources was established. <br /> Maintenance was accomplished at the site in the summer and fall to <br /> repair damage incurred as a result of spring run off and intense <br /> summer rain storms. Field work in support of four projects <br /> proposed to be completed in 1997 was also accomplished. <br /> A number of areas of concern remain, and require monitoring by the <br /> Division and the Attorney General. These areas of concern include <br /> on-site problems, financial and legal issues which remain to be <br /> resolved. <br /> 1 <br />