2013-04-10_PERMIT FILE - C1981019A (13)

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RULE 2 PERMITS collected from each site on average. A total of 426 samples were collected for laboratory analysis. Sample locations are shown on Map 5D. Soil physicochemical data from the 95 soil profiles are provided in Table 2.04.9 -17 and Table 2.04.9 -18. Descriptions of the soil map units identified in the Collom permit expansion area are presented in the Baseline Soil Survey (Exhibit 9, Item 8). All parameters were analyzed using the methods specified by the Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality (WDEQ) Topsoil and Overburden Guidelines (Guideline 1; WDEQ 2004). The parameters analyzed include the following: 1. Texture (including the sample's coarse fragment content and percentage of sand, very fine sand, silt and clay) 2. pH (acidity /alkalinity) 3. Electrical Conductivity 4. Sodium Adsorption Ratio (SAR) 5. Saturation Percentage Additional parameters were analyzed in accordance with the following protocol and as presented on the Laboratory Reports contained in the baseline soil survey (Exhibit 9, Item 8). Fertility (Organic Matter Content, Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Potassium): The following horizons from all sample sites were analyzed for soil fertility: 1. All A horizons; 2. All B and C horizons beginning within 24 inches of the ground surface; and, 3. Those Band C horizons with less than 35 percent clay and less than 35 percent coarse fragments. Boron and Selenium: Boron and selenium were not known to be present in elevated concentrations in the Soils Survey Area. However, to provide information for screening, the thickest horizon beginning within the top 24 inches of the soil profile was analyzed for these parameters. The soil laboratory and field data were compared with the preliminary topsoil and substitute topsoil suitability criteria shown on Table 2.04.9 -19 to determine the suitability of each horizon and map unit. These suitability criteria were developed based on a review of Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality (2004) and Montana Department of Environmental Quality (1998) topsoil and overburden suitability guidelines in conjunction with operational and sound reclamation practices for mined land reclamation. Based on these comparisons, soil horizons that exceeded the criteria provided on the table were identified and were considered unsuitable as a plant growth medium for reclamation. The salvage depth for each series was from the surface to the top of the first unsuitable horizon. The baseline soil survey identified 62 separate map units comprised of series, families, and other more generally classified soils with broader ranges of characteristics. The Soil Series composition of these map units are presented in Table 2.04.9 -20. The map showing the distribution of the map units is presented on Map 5D at a scale of 1:1,000 and 1:500. The dominant composition of each unit is provided along with general information related to the topographic setting, inclusions, and recommended salvage depths. The recommended salvage depths are preliminary and are based on the suitability criteria, field observations, and an understanding of the probable variability based on the factors influencing pedogenesis in the area. These depths and limiting characteristics should be further reviewed and evaluated in the context of reclamation objectives following development of the mine plan. Soil map unit and plant community correlations can be determined by comparing the results of this survey with the Collom Mining Area Baseline Vegetation Survey prepared by Cedar Creek Associates (2906). Collom — Rule 2, Page 51 Revision Date: 9/28/11 Revision No.: PR -03