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Vegetation (Rule 4.15 et seg.): <br />Vegetation is well established throughout the mine site. However, list B noxious weeds (predominantly <br />houndstongue and thistle) are also well established throughout reclaimed areas. Although this is common <br />on recently disturbed lands and vegetation standards do not apply at Phase I bond release, it may benefit <br />SCC to step up weed control efforts in anticipation of further bond release applications. <br />Topsoil Stockpiles (Rule 4.06.3): <br />Topsoil Stockpile "XX" will remain as a permanent feature. This topsoil was salvaged for reclaiming road <br />corridors. However, many roads have been permitted as permanent features so this topsoil will not be <br />necessary in implementing the approved reclamation plan. <br />Shop Area (Rule 4.04): <br />The shop is approved for permanent retention. The area is orderly, no problems were noted. <br />Backfilling and Regrading (Rules 4.14.1; 4.14.2; 4.14.3; and 4.14.6): <br />All observed areas were backfilled and regraded in a way that blends into the surrounding landscape. <br />DRMS ran several transects of regraded areas. OSM did not duplicate DRMS efforts to verify post <br />mining topography elevations. The "Pit ramp slide area" above T -5 has stabilized. Scarps are remnant <br />from old topsoil material movement. Groundwater issues have been addressed and vegetation is <br />stabilizing the surface (see photo #11590). Re- disturbing the area would likely be detrimental to the <br />overall slope stability. <br />General compliance notes: SCC has not yet attained State Engineer's Office (SEO) approval for <br />permanent impoundments. Although not all stock tanks smaller than 2 acre feet may require such <br />approval, DRMS will not approve Phase I bond release - and OSM will not concur in a Phase I bond <br />release action, until all necessary SEO approvals are granted. Evaluation of impoundment areas assumed <br />eventual SEO approval. If the SEO disapproves any impoundment, that structure must be reclaimed and <br />reevaluated for Phase I compliance. <br />No problems with backfilling, regrading, or establishing drainage were noted on the Phase I bond release <br />application areas. No compliance issues were noted and no enforcement actions were taken as a result of <br />this inspection. <br />Page 13 <br />