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6. Location and description of sediment retention structures either existing or needed to <br /> control road sediment. <br /> 7. Statement specifying what technique will be employed to insure that all water leaving the <br /> road will have sediment removed before entering a water course without sediment being <br /> removed first. Several options are available including the use of natural filter areas, <br /> sediment retention ponds or silt fences. <br /> 8. An emergency road maintenance plan requiring that MRC's personnel patrol the roads <br /> and clean culvert to prevent ponding and damming of water during storms. <br /> 5. MINE PORTALS #3 AND #4 AND THEIR ASSOCIATED DISTURBANCES (Photos 16-19) <br /> Surface disturbances associated with mine portals #3 and #4 which are located on Federal lease <br /> lands that are administered by the Forest Service. MLRD requires that all runoff leaving these sites be <br /> treated.Although sediment ponds were observed at these sites it was not determined whether or not <br /> they were functioning properly. Based on review of the MLRD inspections reports the ponds appeared <br /> to be in compliance. However, both portal sites appear abandoned and are in serious need of clean-up <br /> and rehabilitation. The federal lease permit contains sufficient pertinent clauses that requi id; <br /> Continent to prevent damage or degradation of the resources, including land, water, and isuat <br /> 6. RECLAMATION/REVEGETATION (Photos 20-24) <br /> Mid-Continent has demonstrated through experimental test plots that successful revegetation can be <br /> accomplished on harsh sites by using various techniques(fertilizing,mulching,erosion control netting, <br /> etc.). However, no evidence of recent revegetation of the haul road cut and fill slopes or the abandoned <br /> mine tailings was observed during the field reviews. <br /> Recommendations <br /> Watershed improvement projects should be undertaken immediately in Coal Basin.The Forest Service <br /> should not permit Mid-Continent to wait approximately 30 years (anticipated life of the mine) to <br /> implement 'Final Reclamation' as described under Mid-Continent's MLRD permit. <br /> Revegetation must go beyond the experimental test plots to involve full-scale restoration and revegeta- <br /> tion projects on all disturbed National Forest System lands. All road cut and fill slopes should be <br /> ' -- revegetated to Forest Plan standards. The Forest Plan states that "revegetation practices will be <br /> undertaken before the end of the first growing season.Adpquate reestablishment of vegetation will be <br /> 60 percent ground cover or equal the rou n ess an 60 <br /> UJ pem_P '. New revege a io nals-should bonsidered for use on the harsher sites including the <br /> l�(L use of organic fertilizers and soil stabilizers. <br /> L� Until the required erosion control is established, it is recommended that silt fencing be utilized around <br /> �tA all active construction areas to control sediment on-site and to prevent degradation of adjacent lands <br /> and waters. Silt fencing should also be installed below all areas disturbed including both pre- and <br /> J post-Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act disturbances. The fencing could also serve to <br /> a S monitor the amount of erosion which is occurring and demonstrate the effe29� <br /> ness of the recom- <br /> mended drainage/erosion control plan as it is being implemented. � <br /> V V As part of the continuing reclamation process and as required by federal permits,trash and man-made` <br /> debris scattered throughout National Forest lands within Coal Basin should be cleaned up. Wood has <br /> been stockpiled in the floodplain of Dutch Creek which could result in increased channel instability. <br /> Portal (Entry) sites#3 and#4 are impacted with structures in all stages of disrepair. It is recommended <br />