1992-07-22_GENERAL DOCUMENTS - C1981017

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-48- When the mine benches were constructed (starting in 1956) , the excavated material was spoiled downslope, leaving long slopes at the angle of repose. Reclamation of these slopes will be difficult. It is impractical to replace this material on the mine benches and the disturbance that would be associated with replacement would be extensive. The only practical method for reclaiming the outslopes is revegetation of the material in-place. Because of the long steep slopes, little or no topsoil can be practically replaced. In addition, topsoil is not available for reclamation of these outslopes. Since no topsoil is available for revegetation of the outslopes, the revegetated surface cannot be practically compared to the baseline vegetation data. The only practical alternative for judging revegetation success is to compare these areas to a successional stage to spruce/fir parkland. Numerous research studies have shown that, where topsoil is unavailable, reclaiming to a successional stage of the climax revegetation type is the most practical and most environmentally sound method of revegetation at high altitudes. The applicant has proposed to develop test plots to determine a practical revegetation success standard for the mine bench outslopes. The scope of this research project was worked out in conjunction with the Division. The scope of work can be found in Volume 6, Section III-H of the application. The revegetation plan calls for seeding predominantly native grasses and forbs. Several species of shrubs and trees will be transplanted. Two different seed mixes are planned to be used. The lower elevation mix for use at the preparations plant and rock tunnel consists of 14 grass species, 5 forb species, 8 shrub species, and 4 tree species. All the species in the lower elevation mixture are native. The high elevation mixture, to be used at the 5 mine sites, contains 16 grass species, 5 forb species, 7 shrub species, and 4 tree species. Only one introduced species, Timothy (Pleum pratense) , is included in this mix. Pursuant to 4.15.2, the Division hereby approves the use of this introduced species for the following reasons: 1) This species is necessary to establish quick cover, 2) the seeding rate is low (0.5 lb/acre) , 3) this species is compatible with plant and animal species of the region, 4) this species is not highly competitive at an elevation of 10,000 feet and will eventually be replaced by adapted native species, and 5) this species is not poisonous or noxious. Presently, the seed mix does not, apparently, contain enough forb species to meet the species diversity standard. However, native forbs adapted to the high elevation of the Coal Basin Mines are presently not commercially available. In the future, as more forb species become available, they can be added to the seed mix. In addition, non-seeded native forbs have been observed on many of the reclaimed areas at the mine.