2013-04-10_GENERAL DOCUMENTS - C1981019

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Applicant has submitted information which shows that the introduced species are desirable and necessary to achieve the approved post- mining land uses of rangeland and wildlife habitat and that the introduced plants are not poisonous or noxious (Rule 4.15.2). 2. The Division approved the use of contour furrowing as a means to meet soil stabilization requirements (Rule 4.15.4). 3. Methods to measure herbaceous cover and production, species diversity, and woody plant density are discussed in Section B, Item XI, Revegetation, and in Section 4.15.1(4) of the Permit. These techniques include the use of reference areas to set standards for herbaceous cover, herbaceous productivity, woody plant density and species diversity. The Division approved these techniques [4.15.7(1)]. 4. Comparisons between reclaimed and undisturbed areas, in order to demonstrate that success criteria of 4.15.8, 4.15.9, or 4.15. 10 have been met, will be based on the following values: 1) herbaceous cover, 2) herbaceous productivity, 3) woody plant stem density, and 4) species diversity [Rule 4.15.7(2)(d)]. 5. The Division approved reference areas, which the Applicant had selected, based on the requirements of Rule 4.15.7(3). 6. The reference areas will be utilized to determine revegetation success in a manner which the Division finds acceptable [Rule 4.15.7(4)]. XIV. Post - mining Land Use - Rule 4.16 The Permit was found to be in compliance of Rule 4.16. Site description and background land use information is found in Section 2.04.3 and on Map 17 of the Permit. Land use description for the Collom proposed expansion area is located in Section 2.04.3, Volume 15. Specific objectives of the post- mining land use plan are described in Sections 2.05.5 and 4.16 of the Permit. Post - mining land use plans and objectives for areas associated with the Collom expansion area are found in Section 2.05.5 and 4.16 in Volume 15. The Applicant plans to return the disturbed area to rangeland capable of supporting the historic uses of livestock grazing and wildlife habitat. These land uses are consistent and compatible with adjacent land uses. The Bureau of Land Management, the agency responsible for managing the federal lands portion of the affected area, has reviewed the plan and stated by letter that the post - mining uses for rangeland and wildlife are acceptable (Findings, 1992). No specific findings required by Rule 4.16 are applicable. XV. Air Resource Protection - Rule 4.17 Colowyo Coal Mine C1981 -019 PR -03 66 April 10, 2013