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Home My WebLink About20100417.tiff 2010 Phase II Bond Release Application (SL-05) Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine Weld County, Colorado s I , { Ji . ,Y^ Pb �, sly i Prepared by: Savage and Savage, Inc. 4610 Haystack Drive Windsor,Colorado 80550 970.674.8080 February 2010 I(,�;c. c cj v;el,) O3/0; /, O �n : , fib 2010-0417 ,„, Savage and Savage Environmental . r practical solutions for environmental issues . 4610 Haystack Drive 970.674.8080 telephone 'Ft Windsor,Colorado 80550 970.674.8088 facsimile kkl' A savageandsavagepearthlink.net w., February 18, 2010 Weld County Commissioners 915 10th Street Greeley, CO 80632 Re: Notice of Application for Phase II Partial Bond Release for the Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine (CDRMS file C-81-028) Dear County Commissioners : Coors Energy Company is applying for a Phase II partial liability and bond release for portions of the Keenesburg Mine (Colorado Division of Reclamation, Mining, and Safety permit C-81-028) in accordance with the approved reclamation plan. The subject of the bond release is a release from liability and reclamation bond for areas where it has been demonstrated that vegetation has been successfully established and that suspended solids contributions to runoff or streamflow outside the permit area do not exceed pre-mining levels. This includes Areas 2, 5, 6, 7, 9, 10, 15, 16, 19, 23, and 29 within the mine site encompassing approximately 51.05 acres. The current permit area is located within Sections 25 and 36 of Township 3 North, Range 64 West of the 6th Principal Meridian, Weld County, Colorado. The permit area is located seven miles north of Keenesburg, Colorado, and is accessed by Weld County Road 59. As required by Colorado law, whenever bond release is requested, all interested or affected parties with a valid legal interest must be notified and afforded the opportunity to comment or request an informal conference on the bond release in accordance with Rule 3.03.3 of the Regulations of the Colorado Mined Land Reclamation Board for Coal Mining. Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine Page 1 Phase II Bond Release Notification February 2010 This letter will serve to notify you that Coors Energy Company is requesting Phase II partial liability and bond release in the amount of $179,646.00 of the total calculated current reclamation bond amount of $2,121,860.00. A copy of the entire bond release application submitted to the Colorado Division of Reclamation, Mining, and Safety will be on file with the Division in Denver, Colorado at 1313 Sherman Street, Room 215 (telephone 303.866.3567), the Weld County Clerk and Recorder's Office, 1402 N. 17th Avenue, Greeley, Colorado 80631, and the Keenesburg Town Hall, Keenesburg, Colorado, during the review period. All information pertinent to the bond release request is presented within this application. If you have any questions, comments, or concerns regarding the request for bond release, please contact the Colorado Division of Reclamation, Mining, and Safety, 1313 Sherman Street, Room 215, Denver, CO 80203 (telephone 303.866.3567). Additionally, if I can answer any questions or concerns, please call me at the above number. Sincerely, Adviser-r Michael S. Savage Principal CERTIFIED MAIL # 7007 0220 0001 6527 4340 RETURN RECEIPT REQUESTED c: Janet Binns, CDRMS, Denver Don MacDonald, Coors Energy Company Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine Page 2 Phase II Bond Release Notification February 2010 Savage and Savage Environmental Y .. practical solutions for environmental issues Y4;fI 4610 Haystack Drive 970 674 8080 telephone 4` Windsor, Windsor,Colorado 80550 970 674 8088 facsimile savageandsavageghearthlink.net r. I !i 6p,r. a i February 19, 2010 Weld County Clerk and Recorder 1402 N. 17th Avenue Greeley, CO 80631 Re: Phase II Bond Release Application for the Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine (CDRMS file C-1981-028) Dear Weld County Clerk: The attached statement page was inadvertantly omitted from the bond release notebook submitted to your office under separate cover. Would you please add this page to the notebook. If you have any questions, please contact me at the above number. Thank you. Sincerely, iner esiserar-- Michael S. Savage Principal Enclosure: Keenesburg Mine Phase II bond release application (2010),Notarized Statement of Compliance NOTARIZED STATEMENT OF COMPLIANCE • In accordance with Colorado Division of Reclamation, Mining and Safety Rule 3.03.2(e), I hereby certify that to the best of my knowledge and belief, all applicable reclamation activities for which Phase II bond release is being sought at the Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine (CDRMS Permit # C-1981-028, Bond Release Application SL-05) have been accomplished in accordance with the requirements of the Act (CRS 34-33-101 et seq), the applicable rules pursuant to the Act and the approved reclamation program as detailed and approved in the mining and reclamation permit, C-1981-028. /Jij Signe � N Date citi), - / h--Ac( 0 Donald W. MacDonald Coors Energy Company • State of Colorado Subscribed and sworn to (or affirmed) before me at &nLJDEM , co (city), by D Diu Au) Iv . M ACDuMA-th(signer's name) on Z -/G -.2010 (date). SEAL LIDUINA A. ARMIJO 4 NOTARY PUBLIC N ary Public's Signature STATE OF COLORADO My Commission Expires: 9 - 5-- O/2 I A, Savage and Savage Environmental practical solutions for environmental issues 4610 Haystack Drive 970 674 8080 telephone Windsor,Colorado 80550 970 674 8088 facsimile savageandsavagepearthlink.net I , ° February 18, 2010 Weld County Clerk and Recorder 1402 N. 17th Avenue Greeley, CO 80631 Re: Phase II Bond Release Application for the Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine (CDRMS file C-1981-028) Dear Weld County Clerk: Please retain the enclosed bond release application for the Keenesburg Mine on file for public review in accordance with your normal procedures. If you have any questions, please contact me at the above number. Thank you. Sincerely, Michael S. Savage Principal CERTIFIED MAIL# 7007 0220 0001 6527 4395 RETURN RECEIPT REQUESTED Enclosure: Keenesburg Mine Phase II bond release application (2010) N c w/out enclosure: Janet Binns, CDRMS Don MacDonald, Coors Energy Company Savage and Savage Environmental • practical solutions for environmental issues ei 4610 Haystack Drive 970 674 8080 telephone t r! Windsor,Colorado 80550 970 674 8088 facsimile ! f r savageandsavage@earthlink.net e, -, February 18, 2010 Ms. Janet Binns, Environmental Protection Specialist Colorado Division of Reclamation, Mining& Safety 1313 Sherman Street, Room 215 Denver, Colorado 80203 Re: Application for Phase II Bond Release, Keenesburg Mine (CDRMS file C-1981-028) Dear Janet: Attached is the Phase II bond and liability release application for the Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine (CDRMS file C-1981-028) north of Keenesburg in Weld • County, Colorado. This application seeks release for successfully establishing vegetation and demonstrating that suspended solids contributions to runoff or streamflow outside the permit area do not exceed pre-mining levels at + 51.05 acres within Areas 2, 5, 6, 7, 9, 10, 15, 16, 19, 23, and 29 within the mine site under CRS 34-33-125(9)(b) and Rule 3.03.1(2)(b). Copies of the required notifications, application information, certification, and public notice are attached for review. If any additional materials are required, or if there are any questions regarding the information presented, please contact me or Don MacDonald at Coors Energy. Sincerely, Atidserr-- Michael S. Savage Principal enclosure: Keenesburg Mine Phase II bond release application C: Don MacDonald, Coors Energy Company Weld County Clerk and Recorder Town of Keenesburg • Nril- ' gym i' Ill! Tr ll -Trr7 r I I . I ( I 1il II j jI! Ili • i I ;I ! I, ' I I , Ili r 1 I I �I.I I � ! I ' I' ; I I ' 1 1 II I' . !' , I iI L. , ,: 111 I 1 , ; I I i j,: III j� j '' : I ' I I j! I I � I I I II ,, 1 ,. j II I li 9 '1111 I , j 1 1 II I .,ii 1i I , 1 '', , 1 ' I I!j, RI IIII I , li ' i I I I I'! I , I I li • �� 1 ? I Iii +I I ! ': ''j I , , I II jit COORS ENERGY COMPANY KEENESBURG MINE • CDRMS FILE C-1981-028 PHASE II BOND RELEASE APPLICATION Date of Request: February 18, 2010 Permittee: Coors Energy Company Permit Number: C-1981-028 Permit Approval Date: November 3, 1981 Mine Name: Keenesburg Mine Bond Release Phase Requested: Phase II Acreage: Current Permit Area: 610.86 acres Maximum Area Disturbed: +437.69 acres Area Sought for Release: + 51.05 acres • Bonding Company: Travelers Casualty and Surety Company of America Bond Number: 103799990 Proposed Bond Amount(after release): $1,942,214.00 Original Bond Amount: $9,077,000.00 (November 10, 1983 permit issuance) Applicable Bond Amount(for bond release calculation purposes): $4,402,022.00 Current Bond Amount: $ 2,121,860.00 Bond Amount Requested for Release: $179,646.00 The amount requested for release is based on the methodology employed by the Division during the SL-03 bond release process. In that bond release for the Keenesburg Mine, the Division first established the applicable original reclamation bond amount. Then, the allowable amount of bond that could be released under the regulations was calculated. Third, the acreage for which bond release was being sought was determined, and the percentage of the bond release area was calculated relative to the permit area. The percentage of bond release area was multiplied by the reclamation bond amount eligible for release to obtain the calculated bond release amount. • Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine Page 1 Phase II Bond Release:Areas 2,5,6,7,9,10,15,16, 19,23,and 29 In this Phase II bond release, the applicable bond amount determined by the Division was • $4,402,022.00. The percentage of reclamation bond retained between the approved Phase I bond release and Phase II bond release is 35 percent of the total reclamation bond. Multiplying the applicable reclamation bond amount by 35 percent yields the total bond amount eligible for release for the permit area for all Phase II bond release actions, or, $1,540,708.00. The acreage proposed for Phase II bond release under this application is 51.05 acres. The permitted acreage is 610.86 acres, and the total acreage disturbed over the life of the mine is 437.69 acres. From this point in our calculation, we propose to use the actual area disturbed (437.69 acres) rather than the permit area (as the Division did in SL-03) for the reason that there was, and is, no reclamation liability for areas within the permit area that have not been disturbed, therefore the reclamation bond does not apply to those undisturbed areas, and undisturbed areas should not be used in any bond release calculations. The percentage of area requested for Phase II bond release in this application is 11.66 percent (51.05 acres/ 437.69 acres). This percentage, multiplied by the reclamation bond amount eligible for Phase II bond release amounts to $179,646.00 ($1,540,708.00 x 0.1166). Therefore, the reclamation bond amount requested for release in this Phase II application is $179,646.00. Legal Description of the Area Requested for Bond Release: The Phase II bond release application requests release of bond and liability for successfully establishing vegetation and demonstrating that suspended solids contributions to runoff or streamflow outside the permit area do not exceed pre-mining levels at Areas 2, 5, 6, 7, 9, 10, 15, 16, 19, 23, and 29 within the mine site, located in portions of Sections 25 and 36, T3N, R64W, Sixth • Principal Meridian, Weld County, Colorado. This area comprises approximately 51.05 acres. Map: The map, Coors Energy Company Vegetation/Re-Vegetation Map (appended with the Vegetation Reports) identifies the areas requested for Phase II bond and liability release. Dates of Reclamation Work: Reclamation work was completed in the areas requested for release in 1998, 1999, 2000, 2002, and 2003 by Coors Energy Company. Description of Bond Release Amount Request: This Phase II bond release application requests release of bond and liability for successfully establishing vegetation and demonstrating that suspended solids contributions to runoff or streamflow outside the permit area do not exceed pre-mining levels at Areas 2, 5, 6, 7, 9, 10, 15, 16, 19, 23 and 29 totaling approximately 51.05 acres in size. This sedimentology demonstration in this application shows the areas reclaimed meet the requirements for erosion control, and meet the final bond release vegetation standard for cover, total herbaceous production, and species composition (enclosed vegetation studies). The areas requested for release are in conformance with the approved post-mining land use which has been implemented. Remaining reclamation obligations at the mine site include the final reclamation of the remaining area of the "B" Pit, the long term spoil area, topsand piles A-1, A-3, and B-1, the facilities area, and additional miscellaneous ancillary areas. • Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine Paget Phase II Bond Release:Areas 2,5,6,7,9,1 0,15,16,19,23,and 29 Protection of the Hydrologic Balance: Annual Hydrologic Reports have been submitted annually for the mine and the information within the AHR's has demonstrated • the continued protection of the hydrologic balance at the mine site and off-site. Self- monitoring of the sediment control system has been continual, and where regular inspections have revealed concerns with protection of the hydrologic balance, protection measures have been implemented and maintained. Notice to Parties Identified in Rule 3.03.2(1): Please see attached copies of letters and certified receipts sent to specified parties. A copy of the letter to the Weld County Clerk and Recorder, requesting retention of the public copy of the bond release application is enclosed in this section. Newspaper Advertisement: A copy of the newspaper advertisement to be published in the Fort Lupton Press is attached. A copy of the proof of publication will be forwarded for inclusion when received. Achievement of Revegetation Success The reports, 2009 Quantitative Vegetation Study, Areas 2, 5, 6, 7, 9, 10, 15, 16, and 19 Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine, Keenesburg, Colorado; 2009 Vegetation Monitoring, Areas 23, 25, and 30, Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine, Keenesburg, Colorado; and 2003 Reclamation (Area 29) Vegetation Report (2009), Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine, Keenesburg, Colorado document achievement of the • applicable revegetation bond release criteria are appended to this application. A summary of the applicable revegetation success criteria and sampled values for 2009 for the Keenesburg Mine follows. Vegetation Cover The revegetation success criterion for vegetation cover for the Keenesburg Mine is a predictive equation based on cumulative precipitation amounts during the period from September-July. The predictive equation for total vegetation cover is y=0.0173x3- 0.8592x2+14.562x-47.015, where x is the cumulative amount of precipitation and y is the total percentage of live vegetation cover. The vegetation cover success criterion value for 2009 was calculated to be 35.69% total vegetation cover(based on 13.71"precipitation value). Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine Page 3 Phase II Bond Release:Areas 2,5,6,7,9,1 0,15,16,19,23,and 29 Total Vegetation Cover(2009) aAreas 2,5,6,7,9,10,15, 16,and 19 Area 23 Area 29 Xbar 60.96% 68.00% 61.60% S 7.41 n/a 4.85 N 46 1 15 Nmin 3 n/a 1 Total Herbaceous Production The revegetation success criterion for total herbaceous production for the Keenesburg Mine is a predictive equation based on cumulative precipitation amounts during the period from September-July. The predictive equation for total herbaceous production is y=0.3749x2.2485, where x is the cumulative amount of precipitation and y is the total herbaceous production (in g/m2). The total herbaceous production success criterion value for 2009 was calculated to be 135.07 g/m2 (based on 13.71"precipitation value). Total Herbaceous Production (2009) Areas 2,5,6,7,9, 10,15, 16,and 19 Area 23 Area 29 • Xbar 261.13g/m2 169.00 g/m2 268.63 g/m2 S 56.60 n/a 81.81 N 61 1 25 Nmin 8 n/a 16 Species Composition The species composition success criterion requires that there be at least four perennial species, of which three are warm season grasses and one a cool season grass. No one component of the above four species should comprise greater than 40% relative importance nor less than 3% relative importance. Relative importance will be measured by calculating relative cover of the revegetation species. Vegetation species which may be used in the calculation of species composition may be any plant species not defined as a noxious or prohibited plant species, and may be native or introduced. • Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine Page 4 Phase II Bond Release:Areas 2,5,6,7,9,10,15, 16,19,23,and 29 Species Composition (2009) • Success Areas 2,5,6,7,9, 10, Area 23 Area 29 Standard 15, 16,and 19 Total Perennial 4 6 3 4 Species* Warm Season 3 4 3 3 Grasses* Cool Season 1 1 0 1 Grasses* Relative ance All Species All Species All Species All Species (3(3/a<x<40g<40/o) * Numbers reflect only those species meeting the relative importance percentage limitation From the summary information above, Areas 2, 5, 6, 7, 9, 10, 15, 16, 19, and 29 met or exceeded the final revegetation success criteria values for total vegetation cover, total herbaceous production, and species composition in 2009, thereby demonstrating that the permittee has established a diverse, effective, and permanent vegetative cover of the same seasonal variety as the original vegetation. Area 23 exceeded the final revegetation success criteria for total vegetation cover and total herbaceous production. Area 23 lacked one qualifying cool season grass with three percent or more relative cover to meet the final species composition criterion. It was noted that the cool season native grass, Agropyron trachycaulum contributed two percent relative cover, nearly achieving the • minimum cover required for inclusion in the species composition calculation, and thereby meeting the final species composition standard. From the sampling data it was concluded that the revegetated areas are capable of self- regeneration and plant succession. The data shows development of a stable, self- sustaining vegetation community, with seasonality and diversity sufficient to demonstrate successful reestablishment of vegetation on the reclaimed area. Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine Page 5 Phase II Bond Release:Areas 2,5,6,7,9, 1O,15,16,19,23,and 29 "1'771-rI¶fiI.. 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I Savage and Savage Environmental ipractical solutions for environmental issues t ! 4610 Haystack Drive 970 674 8080 telephone Windsor,Colorado 80550 970 674 8088 facsimile k ) f• savageandsavagepearthlink.net ' .1; February 18, 2010 Weld County Clerk and Recorder 1402 N. 17th Avenue Greeley, CO 80631 Re: Phase II Bond Release Application for the Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine (CDRMS file C-1981-028) Dear Weld County Clerk: Please retain the enclosed bond release application for the Keenesburg Mine on file for public review in accordance with your normal procedures. If you have any questions, please contact me at the above number. Thank you. Sincerely, Michael S. Savage Principal CERTIFIED MAIL # 7007 0220 0001 6527 4395 RETURN RECEIPT REQUESTED Enclosure: Keenesburg Mine Phase II bond release application(2010) c w/out enclosure: Janet Binns, CDRMS Don MacDonald, Coors Energy Company • eta. ifi Savage and Savage Environmental o` • practical solutions for environmental issues 4610 Haystack Drive 970 674 8080 telephone Windsor,Colorado 80550 970 674 8088 facsimile savageandsavage@earthlink.net , t' February 18, 2010 Town of Keenesburg P.O. Box 312 Keenesburg, CO 80643 Re: Phase II Bond Release Application for the Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine (CDRMS file C-1981-028) HAND DELIVERED Dear Sir or Madam: • Please retain the enclosed bond release application for the Keenesburg Mine on file for public review in accordance with your normal procedures. If you have any questions, please contact me at the above number. Thank you. Sincerely, ilaiSe%Tar Michael S. Savage Principal Enclosure: Keenesburg Mine Phase II bond release application (2010) c w/out enclosure: Janet Binns, CDRMS Don MacDonald, Coors Energy Company • ri:ql-r I i "Iii TiTinirlr'rirwrr'ill'T• i I I' I I I' l ' I I I; I II I j ; I ' II I I r I I, I I II I ' '.,I I I II I � , iI 1► . II i I I I I p I II j i i IAil p I l iI III iII • , I iI II I .i I 'I I II II I II 1 • I I c I I I I �F I • ! III I i 1 ; II }I I I li I ; • I I I ' • I I' 1 '' II ; I i ,I I III I I ' I I I III P' I I ' I 1. I, 11 l ' i l j II II 1 I I I t F 1 ; II I I j I. I II ' II I I i ,I II 1 1 II I; I I III 1 I I II II I I i ' II i� I II II 1 I I. I II ; �, 11 I 1 , : I 1 . PUBLIC NOTICE Coors Energy Company, P.O. Box 467, Golden, Colorado 80402 (telephone (303) 927- 3670) has filed an application for a Phase II bond release for final reclamation work completed at the Keenesburg Mine with the Colorado Division of Reclamation, Mining and Safety (permit C-1981-028, approved November 3, 1981). The Phase II bond release application requests release of bond and liability for successfully establishing vegetation and demonstrating that suspended solids contributions to runoff or streamflow outside the permit area do not exceed pre-mining levels at Areas 2, 5, 6, 7, 9, 10, 15, 16, 19, 23, and 29 within the mine site. The areas for which bond release is sought were reclaimed in 1998, 1999, 2000, 2002, and 2003. The bond release is sought for approximately 51.05 acres at the site. The current bond is a corporate surety. The current CDRMS calculated bond amount prior to the proposed release is $2,121,860.00, and the amount requested for release is $179,646.00. The legal description of the permit area is: a tract of land located within Sections 25 and 36, Township 3 North, Range 64 West of the Sixth Principal Meridian, Weld County, Colorado. The surface owner of the property for which bond release in being requested is Coors Energy Company. The U.S.G.S. 7.5 minute quadrangles titled "Klug Ranch" and "Tampa" contain the permit area of the mine. The permit area is located seven miles north of Keenesburg, Colorado, and is accessed by Weld County Road 59. A copy of the bond release request application is available for public review at the Weld County Clerk and Recorder's Office, 1402 N. 17th Avenue, Greeley, Colorado 80631, the Keenesburg Town Hall, and at the Colorado Division of • Reclamation, Mining, and Safety, 1313 Sherman St., Room 215, Denver, Colorado 80203, phone (303) 866-3567. In accordance with Rule 3.03.2(3) any person with a valid legal interest which might be adversely affected by release of the bond, or any federal, state, or local governmental agency with jurisdiction over regulated activities at the mine shall have the right to file written objections to or comments upon the requested release and/or file a request for an informal conference with the Division within thirty (30) days of the last publication of this notice, or within thirty (30) days of the completed bond release inspection to be conducted by the Division, whichever is later. All comments, objections, and requests must be submitted in writing to the Colorado Division of Reclamation, Mining, and Safety at the above address. Published in the Fort Lupton Press, , 2010. S rIlrilrr,1, .7 • •I. I ,,i !I A•I! i I. ; �il I I II ili'l• i ; I r i • i II . [ .' A.I,, !,' II i I • , I + i I .. � .I I ! I ! � I I , Vii , I � I I 0 I ► II I. �I: I ; � IIia ' ! I :i+l. • II I I , ' II i II ; I �� I'' ;i'� i ' • I J i I I's I•..' � 'sl II :I I � I. l . ,� I Ili , I• I i. ' j I�III I • ! I I i . r • • 1 i .I ''I : I I I i 0i I; , ' II • II ,,. d !, , ! I ' f ' i i •� I Ii I { ! 1 , I i ' !! I. • I • ! : il. V R -i'' Ili I I� • J i • I ; , j I • I' I 1;' i; I ,II I11 :s� •r i ' ; ii I • '' ill tl • • I • • �.; `il I I ! I ' • 1 . 'IA II•I ; . :,. 1 y I ! , r! i III. •II! I ' 1 I I s i•' 1, Ii ii. f' II! I I . Ili i I .I ; � ; 'I'• li:iI • -I • • I ' i l•� ! • ! Ii I 'I � ! Oil' I 1 I I� II i 1 I#i �11 i !I, i I l':•'. 1,! ' i I ! r.I II ' iI . 1 I I I . : I !Fill: ,; 1 ; I. ' 1 , , : 1 -I - ' ii ' 1 ' I �: i I I • i t i:' I ' I ! r I1 • III �I II I lir., :: • • • lI I Ii I • + ; ',Ij i ; I ii i . I �, ' .i ; , 1 1i. j i; E ;! I ill I ; 1 , I t f E I • f1±I I F ; , : I ` ii !I I I I ! I . ! i I : l i i ; ( I • ; , I I • I ;• ; ; , I ; I•: ll ,I;!, ?i•! • ' II' •!-, • I 1 I i i. J• ' is ate Savage and Savage Environmental k • practical solutions for environmental issues 4610 Haystack Drive 970.674.8080 telephone Windsor,Colorado 80550 970.674.8088 facsimile ' }' ' savageandsavagegvearthlink.net rfr f' I ! r �r. l _ February 18, 2010 WJW Properties LLC 16350 Weld County Road 76 Eaton, CO 80615 Re: Notice of Application for Phase II Partial Bond Release for the Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine (CDRMS file C-81-028) Dear Sir or Madam : Coors Energy Company is applying for a Phase II partial liability and bond release for portions of the Keenesburg Mine (Colorado Division of Reclamation, Mining, and Safety permit C-81-028) in accordance with the approved reclamation plan. The subject of the • bond release is a release from liability and reclamation bond for areas where it has been demonstrated that vegetation has been successfully established and that suspended solids contributions to runoff or streamflow outside the permit area do not exceed pre-mining levels. This includes Areas 2, 5, 6, 7, 9, 10, 15, 16, 19, 23, and 29 within the mine site encompassing approximately 51.05 acres. The current permit area is located within Sections 25 and 36 of Township 3 North, Range 64 West of the 6th Principal Meridian, Weld County, Colorado. The permit area is located seven miles north of Keenesburg, Colorado, and is accessed by Weld County Road 59. As required by Colorado law, whenever bond release is requested, all interested or affected parties with a valid legal interest must be notified and afforded the opportunity to comment or request an informal conference on the bond release in accordance with Rule 3.03.3 of the Regulations of the Colorado Mined Land Reclamation Board for Coal Mining. • Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine Page 1 Phase II Bond Release Notification February 2010 This letter will serve to notify you that Coors Energy Company is requesting Phase II • partial liability and bond release in the amount of $179,646.00 of the total calculated current reclamation bond amount of $2,121,860.00. A copy of the entire bond release application submitted to the Colorado Division of Reclamation, Mining, and Safety will be on file with the Division in Denver, Colorado at 1313 Sherman Street, Room 215 (telephone 303.866.3567), the Weld County Clerk and Recorder's Office, 1402 N. 17`h Avenue, Greeley, Colorado 80631, and the Keenesburg Town Hall, Keenesburg, Colorado, during the review period. All information pertinent to the bond release request is presented within this application. If you have any questions, comments, or concerns regarding the request for bond release, please contact the Colorado Division of Reclamation, Mining, and Safety, 1313 Sherman Street, Room 215, Denver, CO 80203 (telephone 303.866.3567). Additionally, if I can answer any questions or concerns, please call me at the above number. Sincerely,`` Michael S. Savage . Principal CERTIFIED MAIL# 7007 0220 0001 6527 4180 RETURN RECEIPT REQUESTED c: Janet Binns, CDRMS, Denver Don MacDonald, Coors Energy Company • Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine Page 2 Phase II bond Release Notification February 2010 Savage and Savage Environmental • practical solutions for environmental issues 4610 Haystack Drive 970.674.8080 telephone Windsor,Colorado 80550 970.674.8088 facsimile , y l f Y ^ . savageandsavagegoearthlink.net seire, r February 18, 2010 Waste Management Corporation c/Marvin F. Poer& Company P.O. Box 80226 Dallas, TX 75380-2206 Re: Notice of Application for Phase II Partial Bond Release for the Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine (CDRMS file C-81-028) Dear Sir or Madam : Coors Energy Company is applying for a Phase II partial liability and bond release for portions of the Keenesburg Mine (Colorado Division of Reclamation, Mining, and Safety • permit C-81-028) in accordance with the approved reclamation plan. The subject of the bond release is a release from liability and reclamation bond for areas where it has been demonstrated that vegetation has been successfully established and that suspended solids contributions to runoff or streamflow outside the permit area do not exceed pre-mining levels. This includes Areas 2, 5, 6, 7, 9, 10, 15, 16, 19, 23, and 29 within the mine site encompassing approximately 51.05 acres. The current permit area is located within Sections 25 and 36 of Township 3 North, Range 64 West of the 6th Principal Meridian, Weld County, Colorado. The permit area is located seven miles north of Keenesburg, Colorado, and is accessed by Weld County Road 59. As required by Colorado law, whenever bond release is requested, all interested or affected parties with a valid legal interest must be notified and afforded the opportunity to comment or request an informal conference on the bond release in accordance with Rule 3.03.3 of the Regulations of the Colorado Mined Land Reclamation Board for Coal Mining. • Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine Page 1 Phase II bond Release Notification February 2010 • This letter will serve to notify you that Coors Energy Company is requesting Phase II partial liability and bond release in the amount of $179,646.00 of the total calculated current reclamation bond amount of $2,121,860.00. A copy of the entire bond release application submitted to the Colorado Division of Reclamation, Mining, and Safety will be on file with the Division in Denver, Colorado at 1313 Sherman Street, Room 215 (telephone 303.866.3567), the Weld County Clerk and Recorder's Office, 1402 N. 17`h Avenue, Greeley, Colorado 80631, and the Keenesburg Town Hall, Keenesburg, Colorado, during the review period. All information pertinent to the bond release request is presented within this application. If you have any questions, comments, or concerns regarding the request for bond release, please contact the Colorado Division of Reclamation, Mining, and Safety, 1313 Sherman Street, Room 215, Denver, CO 80203 (telephone 303.866.3567). Additionally, if I can answer any questions or concerns, please call me at the above number. Sincerely, Michael S. Savage • Principal CERTIFIED MAIL # 7007 0220 0001 6527 4241 RETURN RECEIPT REQUESTED c: Janet Binns, CDRMS, Denver Don MacDonald, Coors Energy Company Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine Page 2 Phase II Bond Release Notification February 2010 Peety Savage and Savage Environmental • practical solutions for environmental issues t 4610 Haystack Drive 970.674.8080 telephone iir Windsor,Colorado 80550 970.674.8088 facsimile 1! savageandsavage@earthlink.net ' t r. :3 t+, February 18, 2010 Guttersen Ranches LLC 13696 Weld County Road 74 Eaton, CO 80615 Re: Notice of Application for Phase II Partial Bond Release for the Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine(CDRMS file C-81-028) Dear Sir or Madam : Coors Energy Company is applying for a Phase II partial liability and bond release for portions of the Keenesburg Mine (Colorado Division of Reclamation, Mining, and Safety permit C-81-028) in accordance with the approved reclamation plan. The subject of the • bond release is a release from liability and reclamation bond for areas where it has been demonstrated that vegetation has been successfully established and that suspended solids contributions to runoff or streamflow outside the permit area do not exceed pre-mining levels. This includes Areas 2, 5, 6, 7, 9, 10, 15, 16, 19, 23, and 29 within the mine site encompassing approximately 51.05 acres. The current permit area is located within Sections 25 and 36 of Township 3 North, Range 64 West of the 6th Principal Meridian, Weld County, Colorado. The permit area is located seven miles north of Keenesburg, Colorado, and is accessed by Weld County Road 59. As required by Colorado law, whenever bond release is requested, all interested or affected parties with a valid legal interest must be notified and afforded the opportunity to comment or request an informal conference on the bond release in accordance with Rule 3.03.3 of the Regulations of the Colorado Mined Land Reclamation Board for Coal Mining. • Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine Page 1 Phase II Bond Release Notification February 2010 • This letter will serve to notify you that Coors Energy Company is requesting Phase II partial liability and bond release in the amount of $179,646.00 of the total calculated current reclamation bond amount of $2,121,860.00. A copy of the entire bond release application submitted to the Colorado Division of Reclamation, Mining, and Safety will be on file with the Division in Denver, Colorado at 1313 Sherman Street, Room 215 (telephone 303.866.3567), the Weld County Clerk and Recorder's Office, 1402 N. 17`h Avenue, Greeley, Colorado 80631, and the Keenesburg Town Hall, Keenesburg, Colorado, during the review period. All information pertinent to the bond release request is presented within this application. If you have any questions, comments, or concerns regarding the request for bond release, please contact the Colorado Division of Reclamation, Mining, and Safety, 1313 Sherman Street, Room 215, Denver, CO 80203 (telephone 303.866.3567). Additionally, if I can answer any questions or concerns, please call me at the above number. Sincerely, Atiwebasserr Michael S. Savage . Principal CERTIFIED MAIL # 7007 0220 0001 6527 4258 RETURN RECEIPT REQUESTED c: Janet Binns, CDRMS, Denver Don MacDonald, Coors Energy Company • Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine Page 2 Phase II Bond Release Notification February 2010 Savage and Savage Environmental r• r • practical solutions for environmental issues 4610 Haystack Drive 970.674.8080 telephone ! f l' % Windsor,Colorado 80550 970.674.8088 facsimile . savageandsavage@earthlink.net f ' February 18, 2010 Guttersen Ranches LLC P.O. Box 528 Kersey, CO 80644 Re: Notice of Application for Phase II Partial Bond Release for the Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine (CDRMS file C-81-028) Dear Mr. Guttersen : Coors Energy Company is applying for a Phase II partial liability and bond release for portions of the Keenesburg Mine (Colorado Division of Reclamation, Mining, and Safety • permit C-81-028) in accordance with the approved reclamation plan. The subject of the bond release is a release from liability and reclamation bond for areas where it has been demonstrated that vegetation has been successfully established and that suspended solids contributions to runoff or streamflow outside the permit area do not exceed pre-mining levels. This includes Areas 2, 5, 6, 7, 9, 10, 15, 16, 19, 23, and 29 within the mine she encompassing approximately 51.05 acres. The current permit area is located within Sections 25 and 36 of Township 3 North, Range 64 West of the 6th Principal Meridian, Weld County, Colorado. The permit area is located seven miles north of Keenesburg, Colorado, and is accessed by Weld County Road 59. As required by Colorado law, whenever bond release is requested, all interested or affected parties with a valid legal interest must be notified and afforded the opportunity to comment or request an informal conference on the bond release in accordance with Rule 3.03.3 of the Regulations of the Colorado Mined Land Reclamation Board for Coal Mining. • Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine ti Page 1 Phase II bond Release Notification February 2010 • This letter will serve to notify you that Coors Energy Company is requesting Phase II partial liability and bond release in the amount of $179,646.00 of the total calculated current reclamation bond amount of $2,121,860.00. A copy of the entire bond release application submitted to the Colorado Division of Reclamation, Mining, and Safety will be on file with the Division in Denver, Colorado at 1313 Sherman Street, Room 215 (telephone 303.866.3567), the Weld County Clerk and Recorder's Office, 1402 N. 17th Avenue, Greeley, Colorado 80631, and the Keenesburg Town Hall, Keenesburg, Colorado, during the review period. All information pertinent to the bond release request is presented within this application. If you have any questions, comments, or concerns regarding the request for bond release, please contact the Colorado Division of Reclamation, Mining, and Safety, 1313 Sherman Street, Room 215, Denver, CO 80203 (telephone 303.866.3567). Additionally, if I can answer any questions or concerns, please call me at the above number. Sincerely, in erS____ Michael S. Savage • Principal CERTIFIED MAIL# 7007 0220 0001 6527 4265 RETURN RECEIPT REQUESTED c: Janet Binns, CDRMS, Denver Don MacDonald, Coors Energy Company • Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine Page 2 Phase II Bond Release Notification February 2010 y4� gy 4 Savage and Savage Environmental ., si _r . practical solutions for environmental issues ykR.t 4610 Haystack Drive 970.674 8080 telephone ' � ; 1 kh Windsor,Colorado 80550 970.674.8088 facsimile savageandsavage@earthlink.net ', I' „4 k b, February 18, 2010 Frederick Heyde 8646 Cord Road Cord, AZ 72524 Re: Notice of Application for Phase II Partial Bond Release for the Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine(CDRMS file C-81-028) Dear Mr. Heyde : Coors Energy Company is applying for a Phase II partial liability and bond release for portions of the Keenesburg Mine (Colorado Division of Reclamation, Mining, and Safety • permit C-81-028) in accordance with the approved reclamation plan. The subject of the bond release is a release from liability and reclamation bond for areas where it has been demonstrated that vegetation has been successfully established and that suspended solids contributions to runoff or streamflow outside the permit area do not exceed pre-mining levels. This includes Areas 2, 5, 6, 7, 9, 10, 15, 16, 19, 23, and 29 within the mine site encompassing approximately 51.05 acres. The current permit area is located within Sections 25 and 36 of Township 3 North, Range 64 West of the 6th Principal Meridian, Weld County, Colorado. The permit area is located seven miles north of Keenesburg, Colorado, and is accessed by Weld County Road 59. As required by Colorado law, whenever bond release is requested, all interested or affected parties with a valid legal interest must be notified and afforded the opportunity to comment or request an informal conference on the bond release in accordance with Rule 3.03.3 of the Regulations of the Colorado Mined Land Reclamation Board for Coal Mining. • Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine Page 1 Phase II Bond Release Notification February 2010 • This letter will serve to notify you that Coors Energy Company is requesting Phase II partial liability and bond release in the amount of $179,646.00 of the total calculated current reclamation bond amount of $2,121,860.00. A copy of the entire bond release application submitted to the Colorado Division of Reclamation, Mining, and Safety will be on file with the Division in Denver, Colorado at 1313 Sherman Street, Room 215 (telephone 303.866.3567), the Weld County Clerk and Recorder's Office, 1402 N. 17`h Avenue, Greeley, Colorado 80631, and the Keenesburg Town Hall, Keenesburg, Colorado, during the review period. All information pertinent to the bond release request is presented within this application. If you have any questions, comments, or concerns regarding the request for bond release, please contact the Colorado Division of Reclamation, Mining, and Safety, 1313 Sherman Street, Room 215, Denver, CO 80203 (telephone 303.866.3567). Additionally, if I can answer any questions or concerns, please call me at the above number. Sincerely, Michael S. Savage • Principal CERTIFIED MAIL # 7007 0220 0001 6527 4272 RETURN RECEIPT REQUESTED c: Janet Binns, CDRMS, Denver Don MacDonald, Coors Energy Company • Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine Page 2 Phase II Bond Release Notification February 2010 rAtl Savage and Savage Environmental • practical solutions for environmental issues 4610 Haystack Drive 970.674.8080 telephone ! pr i '11.E I Windsor,Colorado 80550 970.674.8088 facsimile • 4 f. savageandsavage®earthlink.net )r`: t V!', February 18, 2010 Panenergy Field Services, Inc. do Panhandle Eastern Corporation P.O. Box 1642 Houston, TX 77251-1642 Re: Notice of Application for Phase II Partial Bond Release for the Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine (CDRMS file C-81-028) Dear Sir or Madam : Coors Energy Company is applying for a Phase II partial liability and bond release for portions of the Keenesburg Mine (Colorado Division of Reclamation, Mining, and Safety • permit C-81-028) in accordance with the approved reclamation plan. The subject of the bond release is a release from liability and reclamation bond for areas where it has been demonstrated that vegetation has been successfully established and that suspended solids contributions to runoff or streamflow outside the permit area do not exceed pre-mining levels. This includes Areas 2, 5, 6, 7, 9, 10, 15, 16, 19, 23, and 29 within the mine site encompassing approximately 51.05 acres. The current permit area is located within Sections 25 and 36 of Township 3 North, Range 64 West of the 6th Principal Meridian, Weld County, Colorado. The permit area is located seven miles north of Keenesburg, Colorado, and is accessed by Weld County Road 59. As required by Colorado law, whenever bond release is requested, all interested or affected parties with a valid legal interest must be notified and afforded the opportunity to comment or request an informal conference on the bond release in accordance with Rule 3.03.3 of the Regulations of the Colorado Mined Land Reclamation Board for Coal Mining. I Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine Page 1 Phase II Bond Release Notification February 2010 • This letter will serve to notify you that Coors Energy Company is requesting Phase II partial liability and bond release in the amount of $179,646.00 of the total calculated current reclamation bond amount of $2,121,860.00. A copy of the entire bond release application submitted to the Colorado Division of Reclamation, Mining, and Safety will be on file with the Division in Denver, Colorado at 1313 Sherman Street, Room 215 (telephone 303.866.3567), the Weld County Clerk and Recorder's Office, 1402 N. 17th Avenue, Greeley, Colorado 80631, and the Keenesburg Town Hall, Keenesburg, Colorado, during the review period. All information pertinent to the bond release request is presented within this application. If you have any questions, comments, or concerns regarding the request for bond release, please contact the Colorado Division of Reclamation, Mining, and Safety, 1313 Sherman Street, Room 215, Denver, CO 80203 (telephone 303.866.3567). Additionally, if I can answer any questions or concerns, please call me at the above number. Sincerely, Michael S. Savage • Principal CERTIFIED MAIL# 7007 0220 0001 6527 4289 RETURN RECEIPT REQUESTED c: Janet Binns, CDRMS, Denver Don MacDonald, Coors Energy Company i Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine Page 2 Phase II Bond Release Notification February 2010 Savage and Savage Environmental ' • practical solutions for environmental issues 4610 Haystack Drive 970.674.8080 telephone h/` w Windsor,Colorado 80550 970.674.8088 facsimile Y savageandsavage@earthlink.net 'r`. I lL' Wr 1 February 18, 2010 District Conservationist Natural Resource Conservation Service 57 W. Bromley Lane Brighton, CO 80601 Re: Notice of Application for Phase II Partial Bond Release for the Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine (CDRMS file C-81-028) Dear District Conservationist : Coors Energy Company is applying for a Phase II partial liability and bond release for • portions of the Keenesburg Mine (Colorado Division of Reclamation, Mining, and Safety permit C-81-028) in accordance with the approved reclamation plan. The subject of the bond release is a release from liability and reclamation bond for areas where it has been demonstrated that vegetation has been successfully established and that suspended solids contributions to runoff or streamflow outside the permit area do not exceed pre-mining levels. This includes Areas 2, 5, 6, 7, 9, 10, 15, 16, 19, 23, and 29 within the mine site encompassing approximately 51.05 acres. The current permit area is located within Sections 25 and 36 of Township 3 North, Range 64 West of the 6th Principal Meridian, Weld County, Colorado. The permit area is located seven miles north of Keenesburg, Colorado, and is accessed by Weld County Road 59. As required by Colorado law, whenever bond release is requested, all interested or affected parties with a valid legal interest must be notified and afforded the opportunity to comment or request an informal conference on the bond release in accordance with Rule 3.03.3 of the Regulations of the Colorado Mined Land Reclamation Board for Coal Mining. • Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine Page 1 Phase II Bond Release Notification February 2010 • This letter will serve to notify you that Coors Energy Company is requesting Phase II partial liability and bond release in the amount of $179,646.00 of the total calculated current reclamation bond amount of $2,121,860.00. A copy of the entire bond release application submitted to the Colorado Division of Reclamation, Mining, and Safety will be on file with the Division in Denver, Colorado at 1313 Sherman Street, Room 215 (telephone 303.866.3567), the Weld County Clerk and Recorder's Office, 1402 N. 17th Avenue, Greeley, Colorado 80631, and the Keenesburg Town Hall, Keenesburg, Colorado, during the review period. All information pertinent to the bond release request is presented within this application. If you have any questions, comments, or concerns regarding the request for bond release, please contact the Colorado Division of Reclamation, Mining, and Safety, 1313 Sherman Street, Room 215, Denver, CO 80203 (telephone 303.866.3567). Additionally, if I can answer any questions or concerns, please call me at the above number. Sincerely, Michael S. Savage • Principal CERTIFIED MAIL# 7007 0220 0001 6527 4296 RETURN RECEIPT REQUESTED c: Janet Binns, CDRMS, Denver Don MacDonald, Coors Energy Company • Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine Page 2 Phase II Bond Release Notification February 2010 wit st„ Savage and Savage Environmental practical solutions for environmental issues 4610 Haystack Drive 970.674.8080 telephone L{ Windsor,Colorado 80550 970.674.8088 facsimile 41-Li ar. savageandsavagepearthlink.net `k t R; February 18, 2010 SW Weld Conservation District 57 W. Bromley Lane Brighton, CO 80601 Re: Notice of Application for Phase II Partial Bond Release for the Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine (CDRMS file C-81-028) Dear Sir or Madam : Coors Energy Company is applying for a Phase II partial liability and bond release for portions of the Keenesburg Mine (Colorado Division of Reclamation, Mining, and Safety permit C-81-028) in accordance with the approved reclamation plan. The subject of the bond release is a release from liability and reclamation bond for areas where it has been demonstrated that vegetation has been successfully established and that suspended solids contributions to runoff or streamflow outside the permit area do not exceed pre-mining levels. This includes Areas 2, 5, 6, 7, 9, 10, 15, 16, 19, 23, and 29 within the mine site encompassing approximately 51.05 acres. The current permit area is located within Sections 25 and 36 of Township 3 North, Range 64 West of the 6th Principal Meridian, Weld County, Colorado. The permit area is located seven miles north of Keenesburg, Colorado, and is accessed by Weld County Road 59. As required by Colorado law, whenever bond release is requested, all interested or affected parties with a valid legal interest must be notified and afforded the opportunity to comment or request an informal conference on the bond release in accordance with Rule 3.03.3 of the Regulations of the Colorado Mined Land Reclamation Board for Coal Mining. • Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine Page 1 Phase II Bond Release Notification February 2010 • This letter will serve to notify you that Coors Energy Company is requesting Phase II partial liability and bond release in the amount of $179,646.00 of the total calculated current reclamation bond amount of $2,121,860.00. A copy of the entire bond release application submitted to the Colorado Division of Reclamation, Mining, and Safety will be on file with the Division in Denver, Colorado at 1313 Sherman Street, Room 215 (telephone 303.866.3567), the Weld County Clerk and Recorder's Office, 1402 N. 17th Avenue, Greeley, Colorado 80631, and the Keenesburg Town Hall, Keenesburg, Colorado, during the review period. All information pertinent to the bond release request is presented within this application. If you have any questions, comments, or concerns regarding the request for bond release, please contact the Colorado Division of Reclamation, Mining, and Safety, 1313 Sherman Street, Room 215, Denver, CO 80203 (telephone 303.866.3567). Additionally, if I can answer any questions or concerns, please call me at the above number. Sincerely, Michael S. Savage • Principal CERTIFIED MAIL # 7007 0220 0001 6527 4302 RETURN RECEIPT REQUESTED c: Janet Binns, CDRMS, Denver Don MacDonald, Coors Energy Company • Coos Energy Company Keenesburg Mine Page 2 Phase II Bond Release Notification February 2010 4 Savage and Savage Environmental • practical solutions for environmental issues 4610 Haystack Drive 970.674.8080 telephone r}I Windsor,Colorado 8O55O 970.674.8088 facsimile l` savageandsavageaearthlink.net t' P 4:... February 18, 2010 State Board of Land Commissioners 1313 Sherman, Room 620 Denver, CO 80203 Re: Notice of Application for Phase II Partial Bond Release for the Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine (CDRMS file C-81-028) Dear Board : Coors Energy Company is applying for a Phase II partial liability and bond release for portions of the Keenesburg Mine (Colorado Division of Reclamation, Mining, and Safety • permit C-81-028) in accordance with the approved reclamation plan. The subject of the bond release is a release from liability and reclamation bond for areas where it has been demonstrated that vegetation has been successfully established and that suspended solids contributions to runoff or streamflow outside the permit area do not exceed pre-mining levels. This includes Areas 2, 5, 6, 7, 9, 10, 15, 16, 19, 23, and 29 within the mine site encompassing approximately 51.05 acres. The current permit area is located within Sections 25 and 36 of Township 3 North, Range 64 West of the 6th Principal Meridian, Weld County, Colorado. The permit area is located seven miles north of Keenesburg, Colorado, and is accessed by Weld County Road 59. As required by Colorado law, whenever bond release is requested, all interested or affected parties with a valid legal interest must be notified and afforded the opportunity to comment or request an informal conference on the bond release in accordance with Rule 3.03.3 of the Regulations of the Colorado Mined Land Reclamation Board for Coal Mining. • Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine Page 1 Phase II Bond Release Notification February 2010 • This letter will serve to notify you that Coors Energy Company is requesting Phase II partial liability and bond release in the amount of $179,646.00 of the total calculated current reclamation bond amount of $2,121,860.00. A copy of the entire bond release application submitted to the Colorado Division of Reclamation, Mining, and Safety will be on file with the Division in Denver, Colorado at 1313 Sherman Street, Room 215 (telephone 303.866.3567), the Weld County Clerk and Recorder's Office, 1402 N. l7`h Avenue, Greeley, Colorado 80631, and the Keenesburg Town Hall, Keenesburg, Colorado, during the review period. All information pertinent to the bond release request is presented within this application. If you have any questions, comments, or concerns regarding the request for bond release, please contact the Colorado Division of Reclamation, Mining, and Safety, 1313 Sherman Street, Room 215, Denver, CO 80203 (telephone 303.866.3567). Additionally, if I can answer any questions or concerns, please call me at the above number. Sincerely, Michael S. Savage • Principal CERTIFIED MAIL# 7007 0220 0001 6527 4319 RETURN RECEIPT REQUESTED c: Janet Binns, CDRMS, Denver Don MacDonald, Coors Energy Company • Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine Page 2 Phase II Bond Release Notification February 2010 Savage and Savage Environmental " • practical solutions for environmental issues 4610 Haystack Drive 970.674.8080 telephone Windsor,Colorado 80550 970.674.8088 facsimile A savageandsavage@earthlink.net `. t February 18, 2010 Colorado Division of Wildlife Department of Natural Resources 6060 Broadway Denver, CO 80216 Re: Notice of Application for Phase II Partial Bond Release for the Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine (CDRMS file C-81-028) Dear CDOW : Coors Energy Company is applying for a Phase II partial liability and bond release for portions of the Keenesburg Mine (Colorado Division of Reclamation, Mining, and Safety • permit C-81-028) in accordance with the approved reclamation plan. The subject of the bond release is a release from liability and reclamation bond for areas where it has been demonstrated that vegetation has been successfully established and that suspended solids contributions to runoff or streamflow outside the permit area do not exceed pre-mining levels. This includes Areas 2, 5, 6, 7, 9, 10, 15, 16, 19, 23, and 29 within the mine site encompassing approximately 51.05 acres. The current permit area is located within Sections 25 and 36 of Township 3 North, Range 64 West of the 6th Principal Meridian, Weld County, Colorado. The permit area is located seven miles north of Keenesburg, Colorado, and is accessed by Weld County Road 59. As required by Colorado law, whenever bond release is requested, all interested or affected parties with a valid legal interest must be notified and afforded the opportunity to comment or request an informal conference on the bond release in accordance with Rule 3.03.3 of the Regulations of the Colorado Mined Land Reclamation Board for Coal Mining. • Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine Page 1 Phase II Bond Release Notification February 2010 • This letter will serve to notify you that Coors Energy Company is requesting Phase II partial liability and bond release in the amount of $179,646.00 of the total calculated current reclamation bond amount of $2,121,860.00. A copy of the entire bond release application submitted to the Colorado Division of Reclamation, Mining, and Safety will be on file with the Division in Denver, Colorado at 1313 Sherman Street, Room 215 (telephone 303.866.3567), the Weld County Clerk and Recorder's Office, 1402 N. 17th Avenue, Greeley, Colorado 80631, and the Keenesburg Town Hall, Keenesburg, Colorado, during the review period. All information pertinent to the bond release request is presented within this application. If you have any questions, comments, or concerns regarding the request for bond release, please contact the Colorado Division of Reclamation, Mining, and Safety, 1313 Sherman Street, Room 215, Denver, CO 80203 (telephone 303.866.3567). Additionally, if I can answer any questions or concerns, please call me at the above number. Sincerely, ithissarr Michael S. Savage • Principal CERTIFIED MAIL # 7007 0220 0001 6527 4326 RETURN RECEIPT REQUESTED c: Janet Binns, CDRMS, Denver Don MacDonald, Coors Energy Company • Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine Page 2 Phase II Bond Release Notification February 2010 fit+ Savage and Savage Environmental - p • practical solutions for environmental issues 4610 Haystack Drive 970.674.80,50 telephone ; rA I t' Windsor, 'm Windsor,Colorado 80550 970.674.8088 facsimile v 1 savageandsavage@earthlink.net ' `. Ir February 18, 2010 Cindy M. Smith Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment Solids Waste Unit, Hazardous Materials& Waste Management 4300 Cherry Creek Drive South Denver, CO 80246-1530 Re: Notice of Application for Phase II Partial Bond Release for the Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine (CDRMS file C-81-028) Dear Ms. Smith : • Coors Energy Company is applying for a Phase II partial liability and bond release for portions of the Keenesburg Mine (Colorado Division of Reclamation, Mining, and Safety permit C-81-028) in accordance with the approved reclamation plan. The subject of the bond release is a release from liability and reclamation bond for areas where it has been demonstrated that vegetation has been successfully established and that suspended solids contributions to runoff or streamflow outside the permit area do not exceed pre-mining levels. This includes Areas 2, 5, 6, 7, 9, 10, 15, 16, 19, 23, and 29 within the mine site encompassing approximately 51.05 acres. The current permit area is located within Sections 25 and 36 of Township 3 North, Range 64 West of the 6th Principal Meridian, Weld County, Colorado. The permit area is located seven miles north of Keenesburg, Colorado, and is accessed by Weld County Road 59. As required by Colorado law, whenever bond release is requested, all interested or affected parties with a valid legal interest must be notified and afforded the opportunity to comment or request an informal conference on the bond release in accordance with Rule 3.03.3 of the Regulations of the Colorado Mined Land Reclamation Board for Coal Mining. • Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine Page 1 Phase II Bond Release Notification February 2010 • This letter will serve to notify you that Coors Energy Company is requesting Phase II partial liability and bond release in the amount of $179,646.00 of the total calculated current reclamation bond amount of $2,121,860.00. A copy of the entire bond release application submitted to the Colorado Division of Reclamation, Mining, and Safety will be on file with the Division in Denver, Colorado at 1313 Sherman Street, Room 215 (telephone 303.866.3567), the Weld County Clerk and Recorder's Office, 1402 N. 17th Avenue, Greeley, Colorado 80631, and the Keenesburg Town Hall, Keenesburg, Colorado, during the review period. All information pertinent to the bond release request is presented within this application. If you have any questions, comments, or concerns regarding the request for bond release, please contact the Colorado Division of Reclamation, Mining, and Safety, 1313 Sherman Street, Room 215, Denver, CO 80203 (telephone 303.866.3567). Additionally, if I can answer any questions or concerns, please call me at the above number. Sincerely, Michael S. Savage • Principal CERTIFIED MAIL # 7007 0220 0001 6527 4333 RETURN RECEIPT REQUESTED c: Janet Binns, CDRMS, Denver Don MacDonald, Coors Energy Company • Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine Page 2 Phase II Bond Release Notification February 2010 ter* 4 • Savage and Savage Environmental W • practical solutions for environmental issues 4610 Haystack Drive 970.674.8080 telephone Windsor,Colorado 80550 970.674.8088 facsimile elf sayageandsavage@earthlink.net r , r p ix. t February 18, 2010 Weld County Commissioners 915 10th Street Greeley, CO 80632 Re: Notice of Application for Phase II Partial Bond Release for the Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine (CORMS file C-81-028) Dear County Commissioners : Coors Energy Company is applying for a Phase II partial liability and bond release for portions of the Keenesburg Mine (Colorado Division of Reclamation, Mining, and Safety • permit C-81-028) in accordance with the approved reclamation plan. The subject of the bond release is a release from liability and reclamation bond for areas where it has been demonstrated that vegetation has been successfully established and that suspended solids contributions to runoff or streamflow outside the permit area do not exceed pre-mining levels. This includes Areas 2, 5, 6, 7, 9, 10, 15, 16, 19, 23, and 29 within the mine site encompassing approximately 51.05 acres. The current permit area is located within Sections 25 and 36 of Township 3 North, Range 64 West of the 6th Principal Meridian, Weld County, Colorado. The permit area is located seven miles north of Keenesburg, Colorado, and is accessed by Weld County Road 59. As required by Colorado law, whenever bond release is requested, all interested or affected parties with a valid legal interest must be notified and afforded the opportunity to comment or request an informal conference on the bond release in accordance with Rule 3.03.3 of the Regulations of the Colorado Mined Land Reclamation Board for Coal Mining. Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine Page 1 Phase II Bond Release Notification February 2010 • This letter will serve to notify you that Coors Energy Company is requesting Phase II partial liability and bond release in the amount of $179,646.00 of the total calculated current reclamation bond amount of$2,121,860.00. A copy of the entire bond release application submitted to the Colorado Division of Reclamation, Mining, and Safety will be on file with the Division in Denver, Colorado at 1313 Sherman Street, Room 215 (telephone 303.866.3567), the Weld County Clerk and Recorder's Office, 1402 N. 17th Avenue, Greeley, Colorado 80631, and the Keenesburg Town Hall, Keenesburg, Colorado, during the review period. All information pertinent to the bond release request is presented within this application. If you have any questions, comments, or concerns regarding the request for bond release, please contact the Colorado Division of Reclamation, Mining, and Safety, 1313 Sherman Street, Room 215, Denver, CO 80203 (telephone 303.866.3567). Additionally, if I can answer any questions or concerns, please call me at the above number. Sincerely, hiskrastr Michael S. Savage • Principal CERTIFIED MAIL # 7007 0220 0001 6527 4340 RETURN RECEIPT REQUESTED c: Janet Binns, CDRMS, Denver Don MacDonald, Coors Energy Company • Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine Page 2 Phase II Bond Release Notification February 2010 -P t Savage and Savage Environmental � . • practical solutions for environmental issues 4610 Haystack Drive 970.674.8080 telephone "! r'I i' " Windsor,Colorado 80550 970.674.8088 facsimile 1d savageandsavagegbearthlink.net ° , f P ' February 18, 2010 Weld County Planning Department 915 10th Street Greeley, CO 80632 Re: Notice of Application for Phase II Partial Bond Release for the Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine (CDRMS file C-81-028) Dear Weld County Planning Department : Coors Energy Company is applying for a Phase II partial liability and bond release for portions of the Keenesburg Mine (Colorado Division of Reclamation, Mining, and Safety permit C-81-028) in accordance with the approved reclamation plan. The subject of the • bond release is a release from liability and reclamation bond for areas where it has been demonstrated that vegetation has been successfully established and that suspended solids contributions to runoff or streamflow outside the permit area do not exceed pre-mining levels. This includes Areas 2, 5, 6, 7, 9, 10, 15, 16, 19, 23, and 29 within the mine site encompassing approximately 51.05 acres. The current permit area is located within Sections 25 and 36 of Township 3 North, Range 64 West of the 6th Principal Meridian, Weld County, Colorado. The permit area is located seven miles north of Keenesburg, Colorado, and is accessed by Weld County Road 59. As required by Colorado law, whenever bond release is requested, all interested or affected parties with a valid legal interest must be notified and afforded the opportunity to comment or request an informal conference on the bond release in accordance with Rule 3.03.3 of the Regulations of the Colorado Mined Land Reclamation Board for Coal Mining. • Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine Page 1 Phase II Bond Release Notification February 2010 • This letter will serve to notify you that Coors Energy Company is requesting Phase II partial liability and bond release in the amount of $179,646.00 of the total calculated current reclamation bond amount of $2,121,860.00. A copy of the entire bond release application submitted to the Colorado Division of Reclamation, Mining, and Safety will be on file with the Division in Denver, Colorado at 1313 Sherman Street, Room 215 (telephone 303.866.3567), the Weld County Clerk and Recorder's Office, 1402 N. 17th Avenue, Greeley, Colorado 80631, and the Keenesburg Town Hall, Keenesburg, Colorado, during the review period. All information pertinent to the bond release request is presented within this application. If you have any questions, comments, or concerns regarding the request for bond release, please contact the Colorado Division of Reclamation, Mining, and Safety, 1313 Sherman Street, Room 215, Denver, CO 80203 (telephone 303.866.3567). Additionally, if I can answer any questions or concerns, please call me at the above number. Sincerely, Agish_r_ Michael S. Savage • Principal CERTIFIED MAIL # 7007 0220 0001 6527 4357 RETURN RECEIPT REQUESTED c: Janet Binns, CDRMS, Denver Don MacDonald, Coors Energy Company • Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine Page 2 Phase II pond Release Notification February 2010 Savage and Savage Environmental _ w • practical solutions for environmental i55U65 4610 Haystack Drive 970.674.8080 telephone / i Windsor,Colorado 80550 970.674.8088 facsimile savageandsavage(�earthlink.net ` ' February 18, 2010 Central Colorado Water Conservancy District 3209 W. 28th Street Greeley, CO 80631 Re: Notice of Application for Phase II Partial Bond Release for the Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine (CDRMS file C-81-028) Dear Sir or Madam : Coors Energy Company is applying for a Phase II partial liability and bond release for portions of the Keenesburg Mine (Colorado Division of Reclamation, Mining, and Safety • permit C-81-028) in accordance with the approved reclamation plan. The subject of the bond release is a release from liability and reclamation bond for areas where it has been demonstrated that vegetation has been successfully established and that suspended solids contributions to runoff or streamflow outside the permit area do not exceed pre-mining levels. This includes Areas 2, 5, 6, 7, 9, 10, 15, 16, 19, 23, and 29 within the mine site encompassing approximately 51.05 acres. The current permit area is located within Sections 25 and 36 of Township 3 North, Range 64 West of the 6th Principal Meridian, Weld County, Colorado. The permit area is located seven miles north of Keenesburg, Colorado, and is accessed by Weld County Road 59. As required by Colorado law, whenever bond release is requested, all interested or affected parties with a valid legal interest must be notified and afforded the opportunity to comment or request an informal conference on the bond release in accordance with Rule 3.03.3 of the Regulations of the Colorado Mined Land Reclamation Board for Coal Mining. 41. Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine Page 1 Phase II Bond Release Notification February 2010 • This letter will serve to notify you that Coors Energy Company is requesting Phase II partial liability and bond release in the amount of $179,646.00 of the total calculated current reclamation bond amount of $2,121,860.00. A copy of the entire bond release application submitted to the Colorado Division of Reclamation, Mining, and Safety will be on file with the Division in Denver, Colorado at 1313 Sherman Street, Room 215 (telephone 303.866.3567), the Weld County Clerk and Recorder's Office, 1402 N. 17th Avenue, Greeley, Colorado 80631, and the Keenesburg Town Hall, Keenesburg, Colorado, during the review period. All information pertinent to the bond release request is presented within this application. If you have any questions, comments, or concerns regarding the request for bond release, please contact the Colorado Division of Reclamation, Mining, and Safety, 1313 Sherman Street, Room 215, Denver, CO 80203 (telephone 303.866.3567). Additionally, if I can answer any questions or concerns, please call me at the above number. Sincerely,` Michael S. Savage • Principal CERTIFIED MAIL # 7007 0220 0001 6527 4364 RETURN RECEIPT REQUESTED c: Janet Binns, CDRMS, Denver Don MacDonald, Coors Energy Company • Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine Page 2 Phase II Bond Release Notification February 2010 ri Savage and Savage Environmental , ' ,+ practical solutions for environmental issues la; 4610 Haystack Drive 970.674.8080 telephone /' Windsor,Colorado 80550 970.674.8088 facsimile i' l savageandsavage®earthlink.net f ` r l' 77. February 18, 2010 Central Weld County Water 2235 2nd Avenue Greeley, CO 80631 Re: Notice of Application for Phase II Partial Bond Release for the Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine (CDRMS file C-81-028) Dear Sir or Madam : Coors Energy Company is applying for a Phase II partial liability and bond release for portions of the Keenesburg Mine (Colorado Division of Reclamation, Mining, and Safety permit C-81-028) in accordance with the approved reclamation plan. The subject of the • bond release is a release from liability and reclamation bond for areas where it has been demonstrated that vegetation has been successfully established and that suspended solids contributions to runoff or streamflow outside the permit area do not exceed pre-mining levels. This includes Areas 2, 5, 6, 7, 9, 10, 15, 16, 19, 23, and 29 within the mine site encompassing approximately 51.05 acres. The current permit area is located within Sections 25 and 36 of Township 3 North, Range 64 West of the 6th Principal Meridian, Weld County, Colorado. The permit area is located seven miles north of Keenesburg, Colorado, and is accessed by Weld County Road 59. As required by Colorado law, whenever bond release is requested, all interested or affected parties with a valid legal interest must be notified and afforded the opportunity to comment or request an informal conference on the bond release in accordance with Rule 3.03.3 of the Regulations of the Colorado Mined Land Reclamation Board for Coal Mining. • Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine Page 1 Phase II Bond Release Notification February 2010 • This letter will serve to notify you that Coors Energy Company is requesting Phase II partial liability and bond release in the amount of $179,646.00 of the total calculated current reclamation bond amount of $2,121,860.00. A copy of the entire bond release application submitted to the Colorado Division of Reclamation, Mining, and Safety will be on file with the Division in Denver, Colorado at 1313 Sherman Street, Room 215 (telephone 303.866.3567), the Weld County Clerk and Recorder's Office, 1402 N. 17th Avenue, Greeley, Colorado 80631, and the Keenesburg Town Hall, Keenesburg, Colorado, during the review period. All information pertinent to the bond release request is presented within this application. If you have any questions, comments, or concerns regarding the request for bond release, please contact the Colorado Division of Reclamation, Mining, and Safety, 1313 Sherman Street, Room 215, Denver, CO 80203 (telephone 303.866.3567). Additionally, if I can answer any questions or concerns, please call me at the above number. Sincerely, hivishrr Michael S. Savage Principal CERTIFIED MAIL # 7007 0220 0001 6527 4371 RETURN RECEIPT REQUESTED c: Janet Binns, CDRMS, Denver Don MacDonald, Coors Energy Company • Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine Page 2 Phase II Bond Release Notification February 2010 4 ' Savage and Savage Environmental • practical solutions for environmental issues rM'a 4610 Haystack Drive 970.674.8080 telephone fb�l Windsor,Colorado 80550 970.674.8088 facsimile savageandsavage®earthlink.net • . February 18, 2010 Town of Keenesburg P.O. Box 312 Keenesburg, CO 80643 Re: Notice of Application for Phase II Partial Bond Release for the Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine (CDRMS file C-81-028) Dear Sir or Madam : Coors Energy Company is applying for a Phase II partial liability and bond release for portions of the Keenesburg Mine (Colorado Division of Reclamation, Mining, and Safety • permit C-81-028) in accordance with the approved reclamation plan. The subject of the bond release is a release from liability and reclamation bond for areas where it has been demonstrated that vegetation has been successfully established and that suspended solids contributions to runoff or streamflow outside the permit area do not exceed pre-mining levels. This includes Areas 2, 5, 6, 7, 9, 10, 15, 16, 19, 23, and 29 within the mine site encompassing approximately 51.05 acres. The current permit area is located within Sections 25 and 36 of Township 3 North, Range 64 West of the 6th Principal Meridian, Weld County, Colorado. The permit area is located seven miles north of Keenesburg, Colorado, and is accessed by Weld County Road 59. As required by Colorado law, whenever bond release is requested, all interested or affected parties with a valid legal interest must be notified and afforded the opportunity to comment or request an informal conference on the bond release in accordance with Rule 3.03.3 of the Regulations of the Colorado Mined Land Reclamation Board for Coal Mining. • Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine Page 1 Phase II Bond Release Notification February 2010 • This letter will serve to notify you that Coors Energy Company is requesting Phase II partial liability and bond release in the amount of $179,646.00 of the total calculated current reclamation bond amount of$2,121,860.00. A copy of the entire bond release application submitted to the Colorado Division of Reclamation, Mining, and Safety will be on file with the Division in Denver, Colorado at 1313 Sherman Street, Room 215 (telephone 303.866.3567), the Weld County Clerk and Recorder's Office, 1402 N. 17`h Avenue, Greeley, Colorado 80631, and the Keenesburg Town Hall, Keenesburg, Colorado, during the review period. All information pertinent to the bond release request is presented within this application. If you have any questions, comments, or concerns regarding the request for bond release, please contact the Colorado Division of Reclamation, Mining, and Safety, 1313 Sherman Street, Room 215, Denver, CO 80203 (telephone 303.866.3567). Additionally, if I can answer any questions or concerns, please call me at the above number. Sincerely, Michael S. Savage • Principal CERTIFIED MAIL# 7007 0220 0001 6527 4388 RETURN RECEIPT REQUESTED c: Janet Binns, CDRMS, Denver Don MacDonald, Coors Energy Company • Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine Page 2 Phase II Bond Release Notification February 2010 1: 1. '��1 ' 11,1 1, II , � � , . i I ! i I I Il � � { 1 I ii ,1 I I { I I:I, I. 1 e i 1 • II II I I ' , I ' I; I I I I • I I I I ,.I I li I;Iiii 'I IL I II Ili I 1 �� 1 III R. I j 1'I. V[ • ll 1 11 1 , d ' I I1 S I I II 'I I : ; I 1 I 1 „ i I II i I 1 I , Ii I II 1I I i 'I I 11 I 1 I ' z I pp 1 I II I ' ; II . I I S! I • III I I, �I I , III. 1 i i It I II I I 1 � t i l,,,dl ' II I Il FIit I I 2009 Quantitative Vegetation Study Areas 2, 5, 6, 7, 9, 10, 15, 16, and 19 • Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine Keenesburg, Colorado ct Jr- • t / I • tfac. • I it Prepared by: Savage and Savage,Inc. 4610 Haystack Drive Windsor,Colorado 80550 970.674.8080 • December 2009 TABLE OF CONTENTS • Page EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 4. 1.0 INTRODUCTION 4. 2.0 METHODS 5. 2.1 Sampling Design 5. 2.2 Field Sampling 6. 2.2.1 Timing 6. 2.2.2 Vegetation Cover 6. 2.2.3 Herbaceous Production 7. 2.2.4 Species Composition 7. 2.3 Sample Numbers/Sample Adequacy 7. 2.4 Statistical Analysis 7. 2.5 Species Identification and Verification 8. 3.0 RESULTS 8. 3.1 Quantitative Evaluation: Reclamation Areas 8. 3.1.1 1998, 1999, and 2000 Reclamation Areas 8. 3.1.1.1 Vegetation Cover 9. 3.1.1.2 Herbaceous Production 9. 3.1.1.3 Species Composition 9. • 3.2 Comparison of Reclamation Areas with Final Revegetation Success 10. Criteria 4.0 DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS 11. 4.1 Vegetation Cover 12. 4.2 Herbaceous Production 12. 4.3 Species Composition 12. 5.0 SUMMARY 12. 6.0 LITERATURE CITED 13. 7.0 TABLES 14. 8.0 APPENDIX 19. • Page ii LIST OF TABLES • Page 2009 Plant Species List: Keenesburg Mine 1998, 1999, and 2000 1' Reclamation Areas 15. 2. Vegetation Cover: 1998, 1999, and 2000 Reclamation Areas (2009) 17. 3. Herbaceous Production: 1998, 1999, and 2000 Reclamation Areas (2009) 18. APPENDIX Page Coors Energy Company Vegetation/Revegetation Map Appendix • • Page iii EXECUTIVE SUMMARY • As required by Colorado Division of Reclamation, Mining and Safety (CDRMS) regulations, coal mining operations must demonstrate that the vegetation established on reclaimed areas of coal mines support the approved post-mining land use and meet the approved success standard for vegetation cover prior to bond release. Quantitative vegetation sampling of 1998, 1999, and 2000 revegetation areas was conducted in August 2009. Vegetation cover, total herbaceous production, and species composition were sampled. Comparisons were made between total vegetation cover and total herbaceous production means from the reclamation areas and predicted values calculated from the approved equations based on on- site precipitation from September 2008 to July 2009. The sampled reclamation areas exceeded the predicted value of 35.69 percent total vegetation cover in this years sampling. The sampled reclamation areas also exceeded the predicted total herbaceous production criterion of 135.07 grams/square meter. Species composition of the reclamation areas was also evaluated from a final success criterion perspective. Results from this year's vegetation sampling at the Keenesburg Mine revealed that the vegetation of the reclaimed areas exceeded the final species composition revegetation success for the mine. Further, the state of development of vegetation in these areas at the mine shows that the permittee has established a diverse, effective, and permanent vegetative cover of the same seasonal variety as the original vegetation, meeting the final success criterion for species composition. • 1.0 INTRODUCTION Information in this report addresses the vegetative condition of selected reclaimed areas eligible for bond release at the mine. The Colorado Division of Reclamation, Mining, and Safety (CDRMS) requires quantitative vegetation sampling and reporting as a demonstration of successful revegetation establishment prior to bond release. Quantitative information in this report addresses the vegetative condition of the 1998, 1999, and 2000 reclamation areas at the mine. Vegetation sampling was performed in compliance with Colorado Mined Land Reclamation Board Surface Coal Mining Rules 2.04.10 and 4.15 and current botanical and plant ecological methods. Field sampling was conducted between August 6 and 15, 2009 by Michael and Edith Savage of Savage and Savage, Inc. The Keenesburg Mine is located in Weld County, Colorado, approximately seven (7) miles north of Keenesburg, Colorado and is accessed by Weld County Road 59. Coors Energy Company operated the Keenesburg Mine for coal extraction from 1980 to 1988. Reclaimed areas sampled in 2009 were backfilled, graded, topsoiled and revegetated in accordance with the approved mining and reclamation plan. The revegetation standards used to evaluate these areas are those currently in effect under the Colorado Surface Coal Mining Reclamation Act (CRS 34-33-101 et seq) and the Keenesburg Mining and Reclamation Permit(C-1981-028). • Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine Page 4 Areas 2,5,6,7,9,10,15,16,and 19 Vegetation Study(2009) 2.0 METHODS • 2.1 SAMPLING DESIGN Discussions with revegetation specialists at CDRMS in February 2007 and April 2009 formalized the sampling design for vegetation sampling at the Keenesburg Mine. Areas revegetated in 1998, 1999, and 2000 would be treated as one sampling unit as parcels within the revegetation areas and revegetation years were contiguous (or nearly so) and received the same seed mixes and reclamation management. Prior to initiation of fieldwork, the permit document and applicable maps were reviewed to evaluate topography, reclamation timing, seed mixes, revegetation methods, management, and applicable revegetation standards. A map of the mine site at 1:2400 scale (1"=200') was used to delineate the revegetated areas (Coors Site Plan; Vegetation Sampling Locations). On a gridded overlay of the revegetation map, a Cartesian coordinate grid (50x50 feet) was established. Computer generated random numbers were used to establish a pool of x,y coordinates. The acreage of each revegetated area was established. Random sample locations were established for each revegetated area. Within each year's revegetation parcels, sufficient samples were established to represent each area by proportional acreage. The following table identifies the location of each parcel quantitatively sampled, the acreage, and the number of cover and herbaceous production samples taken. • Cover/Herb. Prod. 2009 2009 Location (minimum# #of Cover #of Herb.Prod. of samples) samples taken samples taken 1998, 1999,and 2000 Reclamation Areas Area 2(1.95 ac.) 2 2 3 Area 7(1.60 ac.) I 1 2 Area 10(9.69 ac.) 9 9 12 Area 15 (2.73 ac.) 3 3 3 Area 16(1.67 ac.) I I 1 Area 5 (2.63 ac.) 2 2 2 Area 9(14.73 ac.) 13 13 18 Area 6(4.06 ac.) 8 8 11 Area 19(3.23 ac.) 7 7 9 Total Samples 46 _ 46 61 Sample sites were located in the field through compass triangulation and pacing from known landmarks. Figure 1 illustrates the location of the reclaimed areas and sample point locations within each area sampled. • Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine Page 5 Areas 2,5,6,7,9,10,15,16,and 19 Vegetation Study(2009) 2.2 FIELD SAMPLING • 2.2.1 Timing Field investigation was undertaken during the period August 6-15, 2009. This time period coincided with anthesis and maximum development of the majority of plant species found in the reclaimed areas at the mine site to be evaluated. Cumulative precipitation for the September-December 2008 period was 2.49 inches, 27.3 percent below the average for those months (3.01 inches). Overall total precipitation for 2009 from January through July was 11.22 inches, reflecting an amount 41.6 percent above average precipitation for that time period. April, June, and July 2009 precipitation amounts were significantly above the averages recorded for the mine site, resulting in above average moisture conditions during the 2009 growing season. At the Keenesburg Mine, precipitation relevant to the growing season occurs from September to the following July. Total cumulative precipitation for the period from September 2008- July 2009 was 13.71 inches, the fifth highest value since 1993. Compared to the corresponding averages, this represents a 23.5 percent above the average September-July precipitation amount. 2.2.2 Vegetation Cover • Vegetation cover was estimated by the use of the point-intercept method. An ocular point frame (ESCO Associates) was used to minimize instrument error and maximize precision and observer accuracy. Cover transects were 25 meters in length, with two sample data points collected at 1.0 meter intervals along the transect on opposite sides of the transect centerline, 1.5m apart. Transect direction was established randomly through the use of computer generated random directions (0-360°). In no event were transects allowed to extend within ten feet of reference or revegetated area boundaries to minimize impacts from "edge effect." For statistical purposes, each cover transect (comprising 50 data points) served as a sample unit. Data points recorded the first vertical "hit" on vegetation (above or below the instrument), soil (bare ground), rock, litter, or cryptogamic crust. Subsequent "hits" on vegetation were also recorded. Cover data were recorded and reported by individual plant species. The first interception was used to calculate total vegetation cover values. Additional interceptions were used to calculate relative cover of individual plant species and lifeforms. The quantitative cover data also provided the basis for calculation of species composition and relative importance. • Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine Page 6 Areas 2,5,6,7,9,10,15,16,and 19 Vegetation Study(2009) 2.2.3 Herbaceous Production • Herbaceous production was estimated by the harvest method. One herbaceous production plot was located and randomly oriented at the origin of each cover transect. Additional production plots were randomly located. Herbaceous production plots were 0.50 square meters in area. All current year above ground live herbaceous plant biomass was clipped within the 0.50 square meter quadrat. Production material was air dried until weights varied by no more than 0.1g. 2.2.4 Species Composition Species composition information was derived from quantitative vegetation cover data. Relative cover information provided a basis for evaluation of the importance of each encountered plant species and lifeform and for comparison to the final revegetation success criterion. The tables presenting data summaries for total vegetation cover for each area sampled also contain the relative cover by species, and a column depicting the numerical ranking of each species by relative cover within the area. 2.3 SAMPLE NUMBERS/SAMPLE ADEQUACY For the purposes of this study, total vegetation cover and total herbaceous production sampling were undertaken to sample adequacy for each sampling unit with a minimum of fifteen (15) samples. Parameter testing occurred at the one-sided 90% confidence level. • Comparisons between sample mean parameter values and the revegetation success standard assume that the sample mean value accurately represents the population mean in all cases. The following formula was used for sample adequacy calculations: (02 (s)2 nmin = (d Xbar)2 where: nmin =minimum sample size s= sample standard deviation t=the Student's t distribution value at the 90% level(one-sided) d=percent acceptable deviation from the mean(10%) Xbar= sample mean 2.4 STATISTICAL ANALYSIS Statistical analysis for the revegetation success criterion of total vegetation cover is required if the value of the sample mean from the reclaimed area is less than 90 percent of the value of the final revegetation success criteria for total vegetation cover or total herbaceous production. Sampling revealed that the mean total vegetation cover for the 1998, 1999, and 2000 • reclamation area sampling units was greater than that of the final revegetation cover success standard value, therefore no statistical analysis was required. Similarly, total herbaceous Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine Page 7 Areas 2,5,6,7,9,10,15, 16,and 19 Vegetation Study(2009) production means for the 1998, 1999, and 2000 reclamation area sampling units significantly exceeded the final herbaceous production criterion value, therefore no statistical analysis was • necessary. 2.5 SPECIES IDENTIFICATION AND VERIFICATION Species identification was accomplished in the field through the use of plant identification keys (Harrington, 1954, Weber, 1990; Whitson, 1987; Zimdahl, 1990, Stubbendieck, et al, 1995). In cases where plant identification was inconclusive in the field, voucher specimens were pressed for lab identification. 3.0 RESULTS 3.1 QUANTITATIVE EVALUATION: RECLAMATION AREAS 3.1.1 1998, 1999, and 2000 RECLAMATION AREAS The 1998 reclamation areas sampled this year encompass 17.64 acres of reclamation in five areas within the Keenesburg Mine permit area. The areas include Area 2, an area immediately west of the dugout, Areas 7 and 10, two areas south and east of the central reclaimed mining area, and Areas 15 and 16, located north and west of the former A pit and bordered on the west and south by undisturbed range. Vegetation cover transects and • herbaceous production quadrats were distributed within the five areas based on size. The 1998 reclamation areas range from flat (Areas 2, 7) to north and south facing (Areas 15, 16, and 10, respectively). Reseeding or interseeding with the permanent seed mix took place during the autumn of 1998 within these areas with the goal of increasing perennial graminoid representation. The 1999 reclamation areas encompass a total of 17.36 acres of reclamation in two distinct parcels within the Keenesburg Mine permit area. The areas are found on the south and east sides of the mine; Area 5, a 2.63 acre parcel south of the topsand piles, and Area 9, 14.73 acres of the former A Pit. Area 5 is nearly flat with a gentle slope (<1°)to the north and east. Area 9 slopes slightly to the north. Reclamation and coincident revegetation within these areas took place in 1999. Replaced soils were sandy in texture. The 2000 reclamation areas sampled this year encompass 7.29 acres of reclamation in two distinct parcels within the Keenesburg Mine permit area. The areas include Area 6, a former haul road along the southeast boundary of the mining area and Area 19, another former haul road in the center of the reclaimed mining area. Vegetation cover transects and herbaceous production quadrats were distributed within the two areas based on size. The 2000 reclamation areas range from flat to gently sloping (<1 to 2°). Interseeding with the permanent seed mix took place in 2003 within these areas with the goal of increasing perennial graminoid representation. • Specific sampling information for the 1998, 1999, and 2000 reclamation areas is contained in Tables 1, 2, and 3. Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine Page 8 Areas 2,5,6,7,9, 10, '15,16,and 19 Vegetation Study(2009) 3.1.1.1 Vegetation Cover • Total vegetation cover of the 1998, 1999, and 2000 reclamation areas was 60.96 percent. Graminoids provided 41.30 percent mean cover (70.43% relative cover) and forbs accounted for 19.30 percent mean cover (28.77% relative cover). Succulents contributed 0.09 percent total cover (0.12% relative cover), while shrubs provided 0.26 percent vegetation cover (0.67% relative cover). The lowest total vegetation cover of the parcels sampled was found in Area 2 (42%) and the highest cover (82%) was found in Area 9. Calamovilfa longifolia (prairie sandreed) was encountered in all cover transects. Bromus tectorum (cheatgrass) was encountered in 89 percent of the transects, Ambrosia psilostachya (ragweeed) in 76 percent of the transects, and Helianthus annuus (annual sunflower) in 67 percent of transects. Calamovilfa longifolia, a warm season native perennial prairie grass was the dominant plant species with total mean vegetation cover of 18.35 percent and 31.17 percent relative cover in the 1998, 1999, and 2000 reclamation areas. Eight additional species contributed significantly to vegetation cover (greater than 3% relative cover); the cool season introduced annual grass Bromus tectorum with 8.30 percent mean cover and 11.84 percent relative cover, the native cool season perennial forb Ambrosia psilostachya contributed 5.26 percent mean cover (8.04% relative cover), the annual warm season native forb Helianthus annuus accounted for 5.04 percent total mean vegetation cover (7.48% relative cover), the warm season native perennial grass Panicum virgatum (switchgrass) provided 3.30 percent total mean vegetation cover and 7.12 percent relative cover, cool season native graminoid Agropyron smithii (western wheatgrass) accounted for 3.87 percent mean cover (6.56% relative cover), Kochia scoparia (kochia), the introduced annual forb, contributed 3.43 percent total cover (4.91% • relative cover), the warm season perennial native Bouteloua gracilis (blue grama) provided 2.30 percent mean total cover (4.29% relative cover), and the warm season perennial native range grass Andropogon hallii (sand bluestem) accounted for 2.13 percent mean cover (4.05%relative cover). Vegetative litter (prior years growth, dead wood, and other biologic organic material) comprised 25.17 percent ground cover overall within the 1998, 1999, and 2000 reclamation areas. Bare soil comprised 13.87 percent of the ground cover. No rock was encountered during the cover sampling in the reclamation areas. Cryptogams provided 0.04 percent ground cover. 3.1.1.2 Herbaceous Production Mean total herbaceous production within the 1998, 1999, and 2000 reclamation areas in 2009 was 261.13 g/m2 (2328 lb/ac). 3.1.1.3 Species Composition Cover sampling identified four lifeforms and thirty-six species within the 1998, 1999, and 2000 reclamation areas. The lifeforms included sixteen species of perennial grass, two annual grass species, four perennial forbs, one biennial forb, eleven annual forbs, one • succulent, and one shrub. Of the species encountered during cover sampling, twenty-six were native and ten were introduced. Perennial species outnumbered annual species by twenty-two Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine Page 9 Areas 2,5,6,7,9,10,15,16,and 19 Vegetation Study(2009) to thirteen, with one biennial. Both warm and cool season species contributed to the seasonality of the 1998, 1999, and 2000 reclamation areas. Warm season graminoids • outnumbered cool season graminoids by ten to eight. Cool season forbs prevailed by thirteen to three. The succulent was evergreen and the shrub was deciduous. The 1998, 1999, and 2000 reclamation areas had nine species contributing greater than three percent relative cover this year. The species contributing greater than three percent relative cover included four warm season perennial grasses, one cool season perennial grass, one annual grass, one perennial forb, and two annual forbs. These species included Calamovilfa longifolia (31.17 percent relative cover), Bromus tectorum (11.84 %),Ambrosia psilostachya (8.04%), Helianthus annuus (7.48% relative cover), Panicum virgatum (7.12%), Agropyron smithii (6.56%), Kochia scoparia (4.91%), Bouteloua gracilis (4.29%), and Andropogon hallii(4.05%). 3.2 COMPARISON OF RECLAMATION AREAS WITH FINAL REVEGETATION SUCCESS CRITERIA Comparison of the reclaimed area values for vegetation cover, herbaceous production, and species composition with the final revegetation success criteria, indicates whether revegetation has been successful, or whether additional measures need to be initiated to enhance vegetation community development. The tables below allow the comparison of the parameter values with the standard to be achieved, either from the predictive equations in the case of total vegetation cover (y=0.0173x3-0.8592x2+14.562x-47.015) and total herbaceous • 2 2485 production(y=0.3749x ), or the established standard for species composition. Total Vegetation Cover(2009) The predictive equation value for total vegetation cover for 2009 (based on 13.71" precipitation value): 35.69% Parameter Value 1998/1999/2000 Rec. Areas Xbar 60.96% S 7.41 N 46 Nmin 3 Based on the results of the 2009 quantitative sampling, the 1998, 1999, and 2000 reclamation areas exceeded the predicted total cover vegetation value of 35.69 percent, meeting the final revegetation success criterion for total vegetation cover. • Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine Page 10 Areas 2,5,6,7,9,10,15, 16,and 19 Vegetation Study(2009) Total Herbaceous Production (2009) • The predictive equation value for total herbaceous production for 2009 (based on 13.71" precipitation value): 135.07 g/m2 Parameter Value 1998/1999/2000 Rec.Areas Xbar 261.13 S 56.60 N 61 Nmin 8 With regard to total herbaceous production, the 1998, 1999, and 2000 reclamation areas exceeded the predicted value for total herbaceous production, thereby meeting the final revegetation success criterion. Species Composition (2009) Success 1998/1999/2000 Standard Rec.Areas Qualifying Species Total Perennial Andropogon hallii, Bouteloua gracilis, Species* 4 6 Calamovilfa longifolia, Panicum virgatum, (>3% rel.cover) Agropyron smithii, Ambrosia psilostachya • Warm Season Grasses* 3 4 Andropogon hallii, Bouteloua gracilis, Calamovilfa longifolia, Panicum virgatum Cool Season 1 I Agropyron smithii Grasses* Relative Importance (3%<x<40%) All Species All Species All Species * Numbers reflect only those species meeting the relative importance percentage limitation The 1998, 1999, and 2000 reclamation areas satisfied the final species composition revegetation criteria. 4.0 DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS Vegetation cover, herbaceous productivity, and species composition within the 1998, 1999, and 2000 reclamation areas were monitored from 1998 to 2007. The 1998 Reclamation Areas (Areas 2, 7, 10, 15, and 16) were released from Phase I liability requirements with approval of Surety Release 1 by CDRMS on August 11, 1998. Areas 5 and 9 (1999 Reclamation Areas), and Areas 6 and 19 (2000 Reclamation Areas) were released from Phase I liability by CDRMS with approval of Surety Release 2, on October 18, 2005. Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine Page 11 Areas 2,5,6,7,9,10,15,16,and 19 Vegetation Study(2OO9) 4.1 VEGETATION COVER • The 1998, 1999, and 2000 reclamation areas exceeded the final revegetation success criterion value (35.69%) for total vegetation cover. The 1998, 1999, and 2000 reclamation areas had a mean total vegetation cover of 60.96 percent. The first year of quantitative vegetation cover sampling for bond and liability release reveals that the requirement for total vegetation cover has been met. 4.2 HERBACEOUS PRODUCTION The 1998, 1999, and 2000 reclamation areas exceeded the final revegetation success criterion value (135.07 g/m2) for total herbaceous production. The 1998, 1999, and 2000 reclamation areas had a mean total herbaceous production of 261.13 g/m2. The first year of quantitative sampling for bond and liability release reveals that the requirement for total herbaceous production has been met. 4.3 SPECIES COMPOSITION The species composition standard requires that there be at least four perennial species, of which three are warm season grasses and one a cool season grass. No one component of the above four species should comprise greater than 40% relative importance nor less than 3% relative importance. Relative importance will be measured by calculating relative cover of the revegetation species. Vegetation species which may be used in the calculation of species • composition may be any plant species not defined as a noxious or prohibited plant species, and may be native or introduced. The 1998, 1999, and 2000 reclamation areas satisfied the final species composition revegetation criteria. The 1998, 1999, and 2000 reclamation areas had six qualifying perennial species; four qualifying warm season graminoids, one qualifying cool season graminoid, and one perennial forb. This year of quantitative sampling for bond and liability release reveals that the reclamation areas have exceeded the final revegetation success requirements for species composition. 5.0 SUMMARY The quantitative vegetative cover, herbaceous production, and species composition data indicate that the permittee has established a diverse, effective, and permanent vegetative cover of the same seasonal variety as the original vegetation. The revegetated area is capable of self-regeneration and plant succession. The data shows development of a stable, self- sustaining vegetation community, with seasonality and diversity sufficient to demonstrate successful reestablishment of vegetation on the reclaimed area. S Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine Page 12 Areas 2,5,6,7,9,10, 15, 16,and 19 Vegetation Study(2009) 6.0 LITERATURE CITED • Harrington, H.D. 1954 Manual of the Plants of Colorado. Sage Books. Denver Stubbendieck, J., G.Y. Friisoe, and M.R. Bolick. 1995. Weeds of Nebraska and the Great Plains. Nebraska Department of Agriculture. Weber, William A. 1990. Colorado Flora: Eastern Slope. University of Colorado Press Whitson, Tom D. Editor. 1987. Weeds and Poisonous Plants of Wyoming and Utah. Cooperative Extension Service, College of Agriculture, The University of Wyoming Zimdahl, Robert L. 1990. Weeds of Colorado. Cooperative Extension, Colorado State University Bulletin 521A • Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine Page 13 Areas 2,5,6,7,9,10,15, 16,and 19 Vegetation Study(2009) • • 7.0 TABLES • Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine Page 14 Areas 2,5,6,7,9,10,15,16,and 19 Vegetation Study(2009) Table 1. 2009 Plant Species List: Keenesburg Mine 1998, 1999, and 2000 Reclamation Areas • 1998 1999 2000 Species Name Common Name Lifeform Areas Areas Areas Graminoids Agropyron cristatum Crested Wheatgrass P,C,I X Agropyron dasystachyum Thickspike Wheatgrass P,C,N X Agropyron smithii Western Wheatgrass P,C,N X X X Agropyron trachycaulum Slender Wheatgrass P,C,N X Andropogon gerardii Big Bluestem P,W,N X X X Andropogon hallii Sand Bluestem P,W,N X X X Aritida purpurea Three Awn P,W,N X Bouteloua curtipendula Sideoats Grama P,W,N X X X Bouteloua gracilis Blue Grama P,W,N X X X Bromus marginatus Mountain Brome P,C,N X X Bromus tectorum Cheatgrass A,C,I X X X Calamovilfa longifolia Prairie Sandreed P,W,N X X X Eragrostis cilianensis Stinkgrass A,W,I X Oryzopsis hymenoides Indian Ricegrass P,C,N X X • Panicum virgatum Switchgrass P,W,N X X X Schizachyrium scoparium Little Bluestem P,W,N X X Sporobolus cryptandrus Sand Dropseed P,W,N X X X Stipa viridula Green Needlegrass P,C,N X X X Total Number of Grasses 12 15 14 Total Number Perennial Grasses 11 13 13 Total Number Annual Grasses 1 2 1 Total Number Native Grasses 10 13 13 Total Number Introduced Grasses 2 2 1 Total Number Cool Season Grasses 5 5 6 Total Number Warm Season Grasses 7 10 8 Lifeform abbreviations: A annual C cool season N native B biennial W warm season I introduced P perennial D deciduous L legume • E evergreen Note: Only plant species encountered during cover sampling are represented on this list Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine Page 15 Areas 2,5,6,7,9, 10,15,16,and 19 Vegetation Study(2OO9) Table 1. 2009 Plant Species List: Keenesburg Mine . 1998, 1999, and 2000 Reclamation Areas continued 1998 1999 2000 Species Name Common Name Lifeform Areas Areas Areas Forbs Amaranthus retrojlexus Redroot Pigweed A,C,1 X X Ambrosia psilostachya Ragweed P,C,N X X X Chenopodium album Lambsquarters A,C,I X X Conyza canadensis Horseweed P,W,N X X Erigeron speciosus Daisy A,C,N X Eriogonum annuum Buckwheat A,C,N X X X Helianthus annuus Sunflower A,W,N X X X Kochia scoparia Kochia A,C,I X X X Lactuca serriola Prickly Lettuce A,C,1 X Lepidium denstflorum Pepperweed A,C,N X Medicago lupulina Black Medic A,C,I X X X Melilotus officinalis Yellow Sweetclover B,C,I X X X Nuttallia nuda Blazing Star P,W,N X Physalispumila Ground Cherry P,C,N X X • Plantago patagonica Wooly Plantain A,C,N X Sisymbrium altissimum Tumble Mustard A,C,1 X X X Total Number of Forbs 12 11 11 Total Number Perennial Forbs 3 2 3 Total Number Biennial Forbs 1 1 1 Total Number Annual Forbs 8 8 7 Total Number Native Forbs 5 6 6 Total Number Introduced Forbs 7 5 5 Total Number Cool Season Forbs 10 9 9 Total Number Warm Season Forbs 2 2 2 Succulents Yucca glauca Yucca P,E,N X Total Number of Succulents 1 0 0 Shrubs Artemisiafilifolia Sand Sage P,D,N X Total Number of Shrubs 0 1 0 TOTAL NUMBER OF SPECIES 25 27 25 III Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine Page 16 Areas 2,5,6,7,9,10,15, 16,and 19 Vegetation Study(2009) H— W ooY4008Br7C . 80.-00 oiooge9. oo=«0000n o0 0„ 8 6 -.xx.yw 99tt o�. _ 0 'aoo.w«too.to.i od.t000R orV�,0000a,78o-a0000 o0 orb , o 1 “ 4 . . « 2 . rv. « 8 oz o sx- w « e m o • . „ .. .ry N « . e ry l= N „ . «. „� e „ e o . . . «« . = v. e s o • • ry ry s • N •g • a m g S Ss gg R w . • g„ N • . . 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Sr 1L • 0 C u E y z u u L u E Eb o z v y a y a L. 0 y v • F" Z : rl Z ..l = rl = 0 d Uj W N m 0 Q • • 8.0 APPENDIX • Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine Page 19 Areas 2,5,6,7,9,10, 15,16,and 19 Vegetation Study(2009) Large Maps Available for Viewing at the Clerk to the Board's Office in the Public Review file 2009 Vegetation Monitoring • Areas 23, 25, and 30 Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine Keenesburg, Colorado tit '.. Prepared by: Savage and Savage, Inc. 4610 Haystack Drive Windsor,Colorado 80550 970.674.8080 December 2009 TABLE OF CONTENTS • Page EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 5. 1.0 INTRODUCTION 5. 2.0 METHODS 6. 2.1 Sampling Design 6. 2.2 Field Sampling 7. 2.2.1 Timing 7. 2.2.2 Vegetation Cover 7. 2.2.3 Herbaceous Production 8. 2.2.4 Species Composition 8. 2.3 Sample Numbers/Sample Adequacy 8. 2.4 Species Identification and Verification 8. 3.0 RESULTS 8. 3.1 Quantitative Evaluation: Reclamation Areas 8. 3.1.1 2002 Reclamation Areas 8. 3.1.1.1 Vegetation Cover 9. 3.1.1.2 Herbaceous Production 9. 3.1.1.3 Species Composition 9. 3.1.2 2006 Reclamation Area 10. • 3.1.2.1 Vegetation Cover 10. 3.1.2.2 Herbaceous Production 10. 3.1.2.3 Species Composition 10. 3.2 1998, 1999, 2000, and 2003 Reclamation Areas 11. 3.3 Comparison of Reclamation Areas with Final Revegetation Success 11. Criteria 4.0 DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS 12. 4.1 2009 Precipitation Regime 12. 4.2 Vegetation Cover 13. 4.2.1 2002 Reclamation Areas 13. 4.2.2 2006 Reclamation Area 14. 4.3 Herbaceous Production 14. 4.4 Species Composition 15. 4.5 Comparison of Vegetation Community Trends 15. 5.0 SUMMARY 15. 6.0 PEST AND DISEASE INSPECTIONS 16. 7.0 LITERATURE CITED 17. 8.0 TABLES 18. 9.0 APPENDIX 27. Page 3 LIST OF TABLES Page 1. 2009 Plant Species List: Keenesburg Mine Vegetation Monitoring 2002 19. and 2006 Reclamation Areas 2. Vegetation Cover: 2002 Reclamation Areas (2009) 21. 3. Vegetation Cover: 2006 Reclamation Area(2009) 22. 4. Herbaceous Production: Vegetation Monitoring at Keenesburg Mine 23. Reclamation Areas (2009) 5. Yearly and Growing Season Precipitation at the Keenesburg Mine 24. (1993-2009) 6. Comparison of Total Vegetation Cover and Total Herbaceous 25. Production by Location and Year at the Keenesburg Mine 7. Comparison of Percent Relative Cover by Species in the 2002 26. Reclamation Areas at the Keenesburg Mine APPENDIX Page 2009 Pest and Disease Inspections Appendix 2009 Coors Energy Company Vegetation/Revegetation Map Appendix • Page 4 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY • Quantitative sampling of the 2002 and 2006 reclamation areas at the Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine was conducted in August 2009. Vegetation cover, total herbaceous production, and species composition were sampled. Comparisons were made between total vegetation cover and total herbaceous production means from the reclamation areas and predicted values calculated from the approved equations based on on-site precipitation from September 2008 to July 2009. These predictive equations establish the final revegetation success criteria for total vegetation cover and total herbaceous production for the mine. All reclamation areas monitored in 2009 exceeded the predicted value of 35.69 percent total vegetation cover. As with total vegetation cover, all reclamation areas exceeded the predicted total herbaceous production criterion of 135.07 grams/square meter. Species composition of the reclamation areas was also evaluated from a final success criterion perspective. This year, neither the 2002 or the 2006 reclamation areas met the species composition final success criterion. Both lacked adequate cover by qualifying warm season graminoids, and a cool season graminoid in the case of the 2002 reclamation. Quarterly inspections of the reclamation areas were conducted during 2009 to assess the presence and impacts of pests, noxious weeds, or disease to the revegetation. No pests, noxious weeds or diseases were identified during the 2009 inspections that negatively impacted the revegetation efforts. . 1.0 INTRODUCTION This report presents the results of the annual revegetation monitoring and pest and disease inspections for the Keenesburg Mine (Colorado Division of Reclamation, Mining and Safety permit C-1981-028) owned by Coors Energy Company. Quantitative information in this report addresses the vegetative condition of the 2002 and 2006 reclamation areas at the mine. Vegetative sampling is required by the Colorado Division of Reclamation, Mining and Safety (CDRMS) as part of ongoing reclamation monitoring. Vegetation sampling was performed in compliance with Colorado Mined Land Reclamation Board Surface Coal Mining Rules 2.04.10 and 4.15 at the time of sampling and current botanical and plant ecological methods. Field sampling for the areas monitored was conducted between August 5 and 6, 2009 by Savage and Savage, Inc. biologists. The Keenesburg Mine is located in Weld County, Colorado, approximately seven (7) miles north of Keenesburg, Colorado and is accessed by Weld County Road 59. Coors Energy Company operated the Keenesburg Mine for coal extraction from 1980 to 1988. Reclaimed areas sampled in 2009 were backfilled, graded, topsoiled and revegetated in accordance with the approved mining and reclamation plan. The revegetation standards used to evaluate these areas are those currently in effect under the Colorado Surface Coal Mining Reclamation Act (CRS 34-33-101 et seq) and the Keenesburg Mining and Reclamation Permit (C-1981-028). Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine Page 5 2009 Revegetation Monitoring Report 2.0 METHODS • 2.1 SAMPLING DESIGN Prior to initiation of fieldwork, the permit document and applicable maps were reviewed to evaluate topography, reclamation timing, seed mixes, revegetation methods, management, and applicable revegetation standards. Numerical designations were assigned to the reclamation areas to eliminate confusion and facilitate future discussions in 2002. The numbers assigned to reclamation areas are depicted on the Vegetation/Revegetation Map. Only those areas currently revegetated were assigned numbers, starting in the northeast corner of the permit area and proceeding clockwise through the site. As additional areas are reclaimed and revegetated they will be assigned numbers. A map of the mine site at 1:2400 scale (1"=200') was used to delineate the revegetated areas (Coors Site Plan; Vegetation Sampling Locations). On a gridded overlay of the revegetation map, a Cartesian coordinate grid (50x50 feet) was established. Computer generated random numbers were used to establish a pool of x,y coordinates. Since the reclaimed parcels for the years and areas to be evaluated were non-contiguous (e.g., separated by road corridors or reclamation years), each revegetated area was gridded separately. The acreage of each revegetated area was established. Random sample locations were established for each revegetated area. Within each year's revegetation parcels, sufficient samples were established to represent each discontinuous area by proportional acreage. The following table identifies the location of each parcel quantitatively sampled, the acreage, and the number of cover and • herbaceous production samples taken. Location Cover Herb.Prod. (#of samples) (#of samples) 2002 Reclamation Areas Area 23 (0.66 ac.) 1 1 Area 25 (12.64 ac.) 9 14 Total Samples 2002 Areas 10 15 2006 Reclamation Area Area 30(9.68 ac.) 10 15 Sample sites were located in the field through compass triangulation and pacing from known landmarks. The Coors Energy Company Vegetation/Revegetation Map (Appendix) illustrates the location of the reclaimed areas and sample point locations within each area or parcel sampled. Quantitative vegetation monitoring of revegetation success was undertaken this year in Areas 23 and 25 of those areas reclaimed and revegetated in 2002, and Area 30, which was reclaimed and revegetated in 2006. Area 29 (2003 Reclamation Area) was quantitatively sampled this year in anticipation of • submittal of a request for Phase II bond release. Areas 2, 7, 10, 15, and 16 (1998 Reclamation Areas); Areas 5 and 9 (1999 Reclamation Areas); and Areas 6 and 19 Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine Page 6 2009 Revegetation Monitoring Report (2000 Reclamation Areas) were quantitatively sampled this year for the first sampling of a two year sampling regimen prior to requesting final bond release on those areas in 2011. The • results of those vegetation investigations are contained in separate reports. The Keenesburg Mine 1985, 1986, and 1987 reclamation areas were monitored between 1994 and 1998, and subsequently released from Phase II liability in 1998 and Phase III liability in 2009 by CDRMS. The 1995 and 1997 reclamation areas at the mine were monitored between 1998 and 2004, and after successfully meeting revegetation success standards, were released from Phase II liability in 2006 and Phase III (final) liability in 2010 by CDRMS. 2.2 FIELD SAMPLING 2.2.1 Timing Field investigation for the 2002 and 2006 reclamation areas was undertaken during the period August 5-6, 2009. This time period coincided with anthesis and maximum development of the majority of plant species found in the reclaimed areas at the mine site and adjacent native areas. Total annual precipitation at the mine in calendar year 2009 to date was above normal. Cumulative precipitation between September 2008 and July 2009 (growing season precipitation) was 23.5 percent above the sixteen year mine average. While precipitation in the autumn and early winter of 2008 was near average, April, June, and July 2009 precipitation levels far exceeded average, providing significant growing season moisture for the revegetated areas. 2.2.2 Vegetation Cover Vegetation cover was estimated by the use of the point-intercept method. An ocular point frame (ESCO Associates) was used to minimize instrument error and maximize precision and observer accuracy. Cover transects were 25 meters in length, with two sample data points collected at 1.0 meter intervals along the transect on opposite sides of the transect centerline, 1.5m apart. Transect direction was established randomly through the use of computer generated random directions (0-360°). In no event were transects allowed to extend within ten feet of reference or revegetated area boundaries to minimize impacts from "edge effect." For statistical purposes, each cover transect (comprising 50 data points) served as a sample unit. Data points recorded the first vertical "hit" on vegetation (above or below the instrument), soil (bare ground), rock, litter, or cryptogamic crust. Subsequent "hits" on vegetation (prior to interception of the ground) were also recorded. Cover data were recorded and reported by individual plant species. The first interception was used to calculate total vegetation cover values. Additional interceptions were used to calculate relative cover of individual plant species and lifeforms. The quantitative cover data also provided the basis for calculation of species composition and relative importance. S Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine Page 7 2009 Revegetation Monitoring Report 2.2.3 Herbaceous Production • Herbaceous production was estimated by the harvest method. One herbaceous production plot was located and randomly oriented at the origin of each cover transect. Additional production plots were randomly located. Herbaceous production plots were 0.50 square meters in area. All current year above ground live herbaceous plant biomass was clipped within the 0.50 square meter quadrat. Production material was air dried until weights varied by no more than 0.1g. 2.2.4 Species Composition Species composition information was derived from quantitative vegetation cover data. Relative cover information provided a basis for evaluation of the importance of each encountered plant species and lifeform and for comparison to the final revegetation success criterion. The tables presenting data summaries for total vegetation cover for each area sampled also contain the relative cover by species, and a column depicting the numerical ranking of each species by relative cover within the area. 2.3 SAMPLE NUMBERS/SAMPLE ADEQUACY For the purposes of vegetation monitoring at the Keenesburg Mine, set numbers of samples were established for the parameters to be sampled by Savage and Savage and Coors Energy Company. The number of samples taken for each reclamation year was consistent with • numbers agreed to in the past by CDRMS. In each revegetated area, the size and number of parcels dictated the total number of samples taken, as described above. Since the purpose of this sampling was the monitoring of the vegetative condition at the revegetated areas of the mine, sampling need not meet sample adequacy requirements. Minimum sample sizes and standard deviation are reported as an indication of variability of the sampled parameters. Comparisons between sample mean parameter values assume that the sample mean value accurately represents the population mean in all cases. 2.4 SPECIES IDENTIFICATION AND VERIFICATION Species identification was accomplished in the field through the use of plant identification keys (Harrington, 1954, Weber, 1990; Whitson, 1987; Zimdahl, 1990, Stubbendieck, et al, 1995). In cases where plant identification was inconclusive in the field, voucher specimens were pressed for lab identification. 3.0 RESULTS 3.1 QUANTITATIVE EVALUATION: RECLAMATION AREAS 3.1.1 2002 RECLAMATION AREAS • The 2002 reclamation areas encompass just over 13 acres of reclamation in two distinct parcels within the Keenesburg Mine permit area. The areas include Area 23, a small area Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine Page& 2009 Revegetation Monitoring Report immediately south of the haul road and Area 25, north and west of the haul road. The 2002 reclamation area parcels are both flat. Initial seeding (Area 23) or reseeding (Area 25) with • the permanent seed mix took place in November 2002. Specific vegetation information for the 2002 reclamation areas is contained in Tables 1, 2, and 4. 3.1.1.1 Vegetation Cover Total mean vegetation cover of the 2002 reclamation areas was 61.20 percent. Graminoids provided 19.80 percent mean cover (32.01% relative cover) and forbs accounted for 41.40 percent mean cover (67.38% relative cover). Total cover values were variable between the individual parcels within the 2002 reclamation areas and ranged from 46 to 82 percent. The most frequently encountered species was Bromus tectorum (cheatgrass), present in all transects. Helianthus annuus (sunflower) and Kochia scoparia (kochia) were present in 90 percent of transects. Seven species were encountered in only one transect. Overall within the 2002 reclamation areas, Kochia scoparia was dominant, with contributions of 18.80 percent mean and 30.18% relative cover. Six additional species encountered contributed three or more percent relative cover including; Bromus tectorum with 13.20 percent mean (21.95% relative cover), Helianthus annuus contributing 8.60 percent mean total and 14.33 percent relative cover, Ambrosia psilostachya (ragweed) with 5.20 percent mean cover (8.23% relative cover), Melilotus officinalis (yellow sweetclover) providing 3.00 and 4.57 percent mean and relative cover, Calamovilfa longifolia (prairie sandreed) contributing 2.20 percent mean and 3.35 percent relative cover, and Nuttallia nuda • (blazingstar)providing 1.80 and 3.35 percent mean and relative cover, respectively. Vegetative litter (prior years growth, dead wood, and other biologic organic material) comprised 26.60 percent ground cover overall within the 2002 reclamation areas. Bare soil comprised 12.20 percent of the ground cover. No rock or cryptogams were encountered during the cover sampling in the 2002 reclamation areas. 3.1.1.2 Herbaceous Production Total herbaceous production within the 2002 reclamation areas was 190.88 g/m2 (1701 lb/ac). 3.1.1.3 Species Composition Cover sampling identified two lifeforms and twenty-one species within the 2002 reclamation areas. The lifeforms included seven species of perennial grass, two annual grass species, four perennial forbs, one biennial forb, and seven annual forbs. Of the species encountered on the 2002 reclamation areas, thirteen were native and eight were introduced. Perennial species outnumbered annual species by eleven to nine, with one biennial. Both warm and cool season species contributed to the seasonality of the 2002 reclamation areas. Warm season graminoids outnumbered cool season graminoids by five to four. Cool season forbs prevailed by a margin of eight to four. • Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine Page 9 2009 Revegetation Monitoring Report The 2002 reclamation areas had seven species contributing greater than three percent relative cover this year. The species contributing greater than three percent relative cover included • one perennial grass, one annual grass, two perennial forbs, one biennial forb, and two annual forbs. These species included Kochia scoparia (30.18%), Bromus tectorum (21.95%), Helianthus annuus (14.33%), Ambrosia psilostachya (8.23%), Melilotus officinalis (4.57%), and Calamovilfa longifolia and Nuttallia nuda (3.35%). 3.1.2 2006 RECLAMATION AREA The 2006 reclamation area encompasses 9.68 acres of reclamation in Area 30 within the Keenesburg Mine permit area. Area 30 comprises a segment of reclamation in the former "B" Pit with a gentle slope to the east. Initial revegetation with the permanent seed mix took place in the autumn of 2006. Specific sampling information for the 2006 reclamation area is contained in Tables 1, 3, and 4. 3.1.2.1 Vegetation Cover Total vegetation cover of the 2006 reclamation areas was 53.20 percent. Graminoids provided 46.00 percent mean cover (87.83% relative cover) and forbs accounted for 5.60 percent mean cover (8.99% relative cover). Vegetation cover values from the transects were variable from 34 to 62 percent. Oryzopsis hymenoides (Indian ricegrass) was encountered in all transects, while Agropyron trachycaulum (slender wheatgrass) and Bromus tectorum were found in 70 percent of transects. Five species were found in only one transect. • Overall within the 2006 reclamation area, Oryzopsis hymenoides significantly dominated vegetation cover, with contributions of 31.80 percent mean and 66.09 percent relative cover. Four additional species contributed more than three percent relative cover including; Bromus tectorum with 6.20 percent mean vegetation cover and 9.28% relative cover, Agropyron trachycaulum contributing 3.80 percent mean total cover(6.38% relative cover), Calamovilfa longifolia with 3.00 percent mean cover (4.35% relative cover), and Melilotus officinalis providing 2.60 percent mean and 4.06 percent relative cover. Vegetative litter (prior years growth, dead wood, and other biologic organic material) comprised 28.80 percent ground cover overall within the 2006 reclamation area. Bare soil provided 17.80 percent of the ground cover. Rock contributed 0.20 percent overall cover. No cryptogams were encountered during the cover sampling in the 2006 reclamation area. 3.1.2.2 Herbaceous Production Overall mean total herbaceous production within the 2006 reclamation area was 189.59 g/m2 (1690 lb/ac). 3.1.2.3 Species Composition Cover sampling identified two lifeforms and 16 species within the 2006 reclamation area. • The lifeforms included seven species of perennial graminoids, two annual grasses, two perennial forbs, one biennial forb, and four annual forbs. Of the species encountered on the Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine Page 10 2009 Revegetation Monitoring Report 2006 reclamation area, ten were native and six were introduced. Perennial species outnumbered annual species by nine to six, with one biennial species. Cool season species • were slightly more prevalent than warm season species (nine cool season to seven warm season) this year. Warm season graminoids were represented by five species and cool season graminoids included four species. Five forb species were identified as cool season and two were warm season. The 2006 reclamation area had five species contributing greater than three percent relative cover this year. These species included Oryzopsis hymenoides (66.09%), Bromus tectorum (9.28%), Agropyron trachycaulum (6.38%), Calamovilfa longifolia (4.35%), and Melilotus officinalis (4.06%). 3.2 1998, 1999, 2000, AND 2003 RECLAMATION AREAS In 2009, the 1998, 1999, 2000, and 2003 reclamation areas were quantitatively sampled for vegetation cover, total herbaceous production, and species composition. The results and discussion of that sampling is contained in companion reports to be submitted with the future bond release requests. 3.3 COMPARISON OF RECLAMATION AREAS WITH FINAL REVEGETATION SUCCESS CRITERIA Monitoring of the revegetated areas allows for the identification of vegetation community development trends during the extended liability period. This evaluation also assists in . decisions regarding yearly grazing, husbandry practices, interseeding, fertilizing, and weed management. Comparison of the reclaimed area values for vegetation cover, herbaceous production, and species composition with the final revegetation success criteria, indicates whether revegetation has been successful, or whether additional measures need to be initiated to enhance vegetation community development. The tables below allow the comparison of the parameter values with the standard to be achieved, either from the predictive equations in the case of vegetation cover (y=0.0173x3-0.8592x 2+14.562x-47.015) and herbaceous production (y=0.37491 2485) or the established standard for species composition. Total Vegetation Cover (2009) Predictive Equation Value for 2009:35.69 % total vegetation cover 2002 Reclamation 2006 Reclamation Areas Area Xbar 61.20 53.20 S 13.34 8.50 N 10 10 Nmin 16 9 Based on the results of the 2009 quantitative sampling, the 2002 and 2006 reclamation areas • exceeded the predicted total cover vegetation value of 35.69 percent, meeting the final revegetation success criterion for vegetation cover. Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine Page 11 2009 Revegetation Monitoring Report Total Herbaceous Production (2009) • Predictive Equation Value for 2009:135.07 g/m2 total herbaceous productions 2002 Reclamation 2006 Reclamation Areas Area Xbar 190.88 189.59 S 41.72 55.31 N 15 15 Nmin 15 26 Both the 2002 and 2006 reclamation areas exceeded the predicted value for total herbaceous production,thereby meeting the final revegetation success criterion. Species Composition (2009) Success 2002 Reclamation 2006 Reclamation Standard Areas Area Total Perennial Species* 4 3 3 (>3% rel. cover) Warm Season Grasses* 3 1 1 Cool Season Grasses* 1 0 2(see below) Relative Importance Indian Ricegrass Species All Species 0%R.I. * Numbers reflect only those species meeting the relative importance percentage limitation None of the reclamation areas sampled in 2009 satisfied the final species composition revegetation success criteria. The 2002 reclamation areas lacked the required number of warm and cool season grasses. The 2006 reclamation area did not qualify as Oryzopsis hymenoides relative cover exceeded the 40 percent upper limit, and lacked two qualifying warm season graminoids. 4.0 DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS Areas at the mine that were revegetated in 2002 and 2006 were quantitatively sampled in 2009 to evaluate revegetation establishment for monitoring purposes, and identify any areas that require implementation of additional measures to ensure long-term revegetation success. 4.1 2009 PRECIPITATION REGIME The climate of the mine and surrounding area is characterized by a wide temperature fluctuation; from below freezing in winter, to very warm in the summer months. Precipitation in the area is provided by weather systems originating in the Gulf of Mexico • and is most frequent and reliable during the spring and late summer months (Table 5). Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine Page 12 2009 Revegetation Monitoring Report Coors Energy Company has collected precipitation data at the mine for a number of years. This data represents the most complete record of precipitation from the mine area. Table 5 • presents a summary of precipitation data collected from 1993 through 2009, corresponding with the most recent vegetation monitoring. A review of the data illustrates that precipitation generally is lowest during the late autumn and winter months (October through March), peaks in April through June, and tapers off gradually until late autumn again. The months with the highest average precipitation are May and June. Based on the 1993-2009 data, average yearly precipitation was calculated. Cumulative precipitation for the September-December 2008 period was 2.49 inches, 27.3 percent below the average for those months (3.01 inches). Overall total precipitation for 2009 from January through July was 11.22 inches, reflecting an amount 41.6 percent above average precipitation for that time period. April, June, and July 2009 precipitation amounts were significantly above the averages recorded for the mine site, resulting in above average moisture conditions during the 2009 growing season. At the Keenesburg Mine, precipitation relevant to the growing season occurs from September to the following July. Total cumulative precipitation for the period from September 2008- July 2009 was 13.71 inches, the fifth highest value since 1993. Compared to the corresponding averages, this represents a 23.5 percent above the average September-July precipitation amount. 4.2 VEGETATION COVER 4.2.1 2002 Reclamation Areas Table 6 presents a historical record of all vegetation cover and total herbaceous production sampling results for monitoring at the mine since 1994. Though a number of the areas are no longer quantitatively monitored (having been released from liability), this information reflects the impact that varying precipitation regimes and stand age have on the vegetation communities at the mine. The total vegetation cover values of the 2002 reclamation areas reflect an increase of 34.2 percent from the 2007 growing season, when these areas were monitored last. As the September-July precipitation amount from the 2007 growing season was 35.0 percent above average and the corresponding precipitation amount from the 2009 season was 23.5 percent above normal, the increased vegetation cover cannot be attributed solely to an increase in precipitation. Table 7 provides a comparison of the relative cover of species encountered during cover sampling in the 2002 reclamation areas. The following depicts the significant changes in relative cover for selected species in the 2002 reclamation areas (those reclamation areas with a sampling record of three or more years). i Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine Page 13 2009 Revegetation Monitoring Report Plant Species % Relative Cover Change 2007-2009 (+1-) • Ambrosia psilostachya 2110 Kochia scoparia 517 Andropogon hallii 390 Medicago lupulina 176 Bromus tectorum -9 Lactuca serriola -23 Melilotus o.f cinale -35 Oryzopsis hymenoides -42 Panicum virgatum -48 Helianthus annuus -59 Sisymbrium altissimum -82 Changes in relative cover on a yearly basis may not reflect long term trends but should reveal individual species responses to precipitation distribution and competition from other species. The changes in relative cover from 2007-2009 reveal changes in species representation from an average growing season to a wet growing season (with regard to precipitation). Significant increases in relative cover occurred in the past two growing seasons for one cool season perennial forb (Ambrosia psilostachya), one warm season perennial grass (Andropogon hallii), and two annual introduced early successional forbs (Kochia scoparia and Medicago lupulina). Remaining species present in both 2007 and 2009 sampling • revealed major decreases in relative cover over the past two growing seasons. Annual forbs continue to dominate the relative cover of the 2002 reclamation areas in the sixth growing season. Typically by this timeframe, several species of warm season and cool season perennial graminoids have established themselves as dominant within the vegetation community. 4.2.2 2006 Reclamation Area This calendar year was the first quantitative vegetation sampling of the 2006 reclamation area. Cover sampling revealed significant cover and diversity of the perennial grass component in the area. Of the nine grass species encountered, seven were native perennials. Of the perennial grasses, four were warm season and three were cool season. Introduced annual early successional forbs were only a minor component of the sampled cover. 4.3 HERBACEOUS PRODUCTION Mean herbaceous production for both the 2002 and 2006 reclamation areas significantly exceeded the predicted total herbaceous production (135.07g/m2). A 91.1 percent increase in total herbaceous production occurred from 2007 to 2009 at the 2002 reclamation areas. Not entirely attributable to a corresponding precipitation regime, the increased production is likely resultant from establishment of large stature species. • Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine Page 14 2009 Revegetation Monitoring Report 4.4 SPECIES COMPOSITION • The Colorado Division of Reclamation, Mining and Safety considers species composition of the revegetated and reclaimed areas to be an indicator of successful vegetation establishment and a diverse vegetation community. The species composition standard requires that there be at least four perennial species, of which three are warm season grasses and one a cool season grass. No one component of the above four species should comprise greater than 40% relative importance nor less than 3% relative importance. Relative importance will be measured by calculating relative cover of the revegetation species. Vegetation species which may be used in the calculation of species composition may be any plant species not defined as a noxious or prohibited plant species, and may be native or introduced. A comparison of the 2007 species composition data with the revegetation success standard reveals that in the 2002 reclamation areas three warm season grass species and one cool season grass were lacking adequate relative cover to be counted for the species composition criterion. This year, two warm season grasses and one cool season grass species were lacking in sufficient relative cover to satisfy the criterion. The 2006 reclamation area exceeded the number of qualifying cool season grass species (2), but lacked two qualifying warm season grasses. Several warm season grass species were present in the sampling, providing promise for this relatively young, developing area. 4.5 COMPARISON OF VEGETATION COMMUNITY TRENDS • Direct comparison of the 2009 monitoring data for the areas sampled with that of previous years to evaluate long-term trends in vegetation communities cannot be undertaken for the 2002 and 2006 reclamation areas as they have only been monitored from one to three years. The short duration of sampling precludes any significant observations regarding long-term trends at this time. 5.0 SUMMARY Quantitative monitoring of the 2002 and 2006 reclamation areas revealed that the all reclamation areas met the requirements for final revegetation success for total vegetation cover and total herbaceous production. Of the revegetated areas sampled in 2009, neither the 2002 or 2006 reclamation areas met the species composition revegetation success criterion. Table 1 reveals that the total number of species encountered during sampling is significant and diverse in numbers of species, lifeforms, and seasonal variety. The 2002 reclamation areas revealed a significant annual forb component this growing season. While desirable perennial grasses were present in the quantitative cover sampling, their relative cover was below that expected from prior revegetation efforts and adjacent reclamation areas at the Keenesburg Mine. • The 2006 reclamation area has shown significant development of a diverse, effective, permanent vegetation cover, and is expected to continue in their successful development. Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine Page 15 2009 Revegetation Monitoring Report 6.0 PEST AND DISEASE INSPECTIONS • Four quarterly inspections were conducted at the Keenesburg Mine to evaluate the presence or potential for pest or disease infestations or outbreaks. The inspections were conducted on March 4, May 14, July 16, and December 1, 2009. Inspection reports from those inspections are located in the appendix. During those inspections no disease conditions at any of the reclaimed and revegetated areas were identified. No plant pests were found which were affecting the growth of the vegetation. No bare areas, or areas which appeared to be affected by infestation or blight were found during the inspections. • • Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine Page 16 2009 Revegetation Monitoring Report 7.0 LITERATURE CITED Harrington, H.D. 1954 Manual of the Plants of Colorado. Sage Books. Denver Stubbendieck, J., G.Y. Friisoe, and M.R. Bolick. 1995. Weeds of Nebraska and the Great Plains. Nebraska Department of Agriculture. Weber, William A. 1990. Colorado Flora: Eastern Slope. University of Colorado Press Whitson, Tom D. Editor. 1987. Weeds and Poisonous Plants of Wyoming and Utah. Cooperative Extension Service, College of Agriculture, The University of Wyoming Zimdahl, Robert L. 1990. Weeds of Colorado. Cooperative Extension, Colorado State University Bulletin 521A • • Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine Page 17 2009 Revegetation Monitoring Report 8.0 TABLES i i • Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine Page 18 2009 Revegetation Monitoring Report Table 1. 2009 Plant Species List: Keenesburg Mine Vegetation Monitoring • 2002 and 2006 Reclamation Areas 2002 2006 Species Name Common Name Lifeform Areas Area Graminoids Agropyron dasystachyum Thickspike Wheatgrass P,C,N X Agropyron trachycaulum Slender Wheatgrass P,C,N X X Andropogon hallii Sand Bluestem P,W,N X Bouteloua curtipendula Sideoats Grama P,W,N X Bouteloua gracilis Blue Grama P,W,N X Bromus marginatus Mountain Brome P,C,N X Bromus tectorum Cheatgrass A,C,I X X Calamovilfa longifolia Prairie Sandreed P,W,N X X Eragrostis cilianensis Stinkgrass A,W,I X X Oryzopsis hymenoides Indian Ricegrass P,C,N X X Panicum virgatum Switchgrass P,W,N X X Schizachyrium scoparium Little Bluestem P,W,N X Total Number of Grasses 9 9 Total Number Perennial Grasses 7 7 • Total Number Annual Grasses 2 2 Total Number Native Grasses 7 7 Total Number Introduced Grasses 2 2 Total Number Cool Season Grasses 4 4 Total Number Warm Season Grasses 5 5 • Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine Page 19 2009 Revegetation Monitoring Report Table 1. 2009 Plant Species List: Keenesburg Mine Vegetation Monitoring 2002 and 2006 Reclamation Areas • continued 2002 2006 Species Name Common Name Lifeform Areas Area Forbs Ambrosia psilostachya Ragweed P,C,N X X Conyza canadensis Horseweed P,W,N X Aster fendleri Aster P,W,N X Eriogonum annuum Buckwheat A,C,N X Helianthus annuus Sunflower A,W,N X X Kochia scoparia Kochia A,C,I X X Lactuca serriola Prickly Lettuce A,C,I X Medicago lupulina Black Medic A,C,I X X Mehlotus officinalis Yellow Sweetclover B,C,I X X Nuttallia nuda Blazing Star P,W,N X X Sisymbrium altissimum Tumble Mustard A,C,I X X Tribulus terrestris Puncture Vine A,C,I X Total Number of Forbs 12 7 Total Number Perennial Forbs 4 2 Total Number Biennial Forbs 1 1 • Total Number Annual Fortis 7 4 Total Number Native Forbs 6 3 Total Number Introduced Fortis 6 4 Total Number Cool Season Forbs 8 5 Total Number Warm Season Forbs 4 2 TOTAL NUMBER OF SPECIES 21 16 Lifeform abbreviations: A annual C cool season N native B biennial W warm season I introduced P perennial D deciduous L legume E evergreen Note: Only plant species encountered during cover sampling are represented on this list • Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine Page 20 2009 Revegetation Monitoring Report . u G ,c O O N b O. �. er III W W ^, en W 00 N .o O1 ...r c .. 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Comparison of Percent Relative Cover by Species in the 2002 Reclamation Areas at the Keenesburg Mine Sample Year Plant Species 2006 2007 2009 Craminoids Agropyron dasystachyum 0.61 Agropyron smithii 9.42 0.39 Agropyron trachycaulum 1.52 Andropogon hallii 0.39 1.52 Bouteloua gracilis 0.45 0.91 Bromus tectorum 0.45 24.12 21.95 Calamovilfa longifolia 4.04 3.35 Eragrostis cilianensis 1.22 Oryzopsis hymenoides 22.42 1.56 0.91 Panicum virgatum 1.17 0.61 Forbs Amaranthus retroflexus 7.39 Ambrosia psilostachya 10.31 0.39 8.23 Argemone polyanthemos 0.90 Asclepias sp. 0.78 Aster fendleri 0.30 Chenopodium album 1.79 1.56 • Cleome serrulata 0.78 Conyza canadensis 0.30 Erigeron speciosus 2.24 Eriogonum annuum 0.45 0.61 Helianthus annuus 14.80 35.02 14.33 Kochia scoparia 28.70 5.84 30.18 Lactuca serriola 0.45 0.39 0.30 Medicago lupulina 0.90 1.56 2.74 Melilotus ofcinalis 7.00 4.57 Nuttallia nuda 1.35 3.35 Sisymbrium altisimum 0.90 11.67 2.13 Tribulus terrestris 0.45 0.30 Total number of species I7 16 21 Total number of graminoids 5 5 9 Total number of forbs 12 11 12 Wet years in blue Dry years in red Average years in black Wet,Dry,and Average years determined by%deviation from September-July total precipitation mean >110%of mean is wet,<90%of mean is dry,remaining years are average] I Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine Page 26 2009 Revegetation Monitoring Report 9.0 APPENDIX • • • Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine Page 27 2009 Revegetation Monitoring Report Large Maps Available for Viewing at the Clerk to the Board's Office in the Public Review file 2003 Reclamation (Area 29) Vegetation Report (2009) • Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine Keenesburg, Colorado t • I • Prepared by: Savage and Savage,Inc. 4610 Haystack Drive Windsor,Colorado 80550 970.674.8080 • December 2009 TABLE OF CONTENTS . Page EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 5. 1.0 INTRODUCTION 5. 2.0 METHODS 6. 2.1 Sampling Design 6. 2.2 Field Sampling 6. 2.2.1 Timing 6. 2.2.2 Vegetation Cover 6. 2.2.3 Herbaceous Production 7. 2.2.4 Species Composition 7. 2.3 Sample Numbers/Sample Adequacy 7. 2.4 Statistical Analysis 8. 2.5 Species Identification and Verification 8. 3.0 RESULTS 8. 3.1 Quantitative Evaluation: 2003 Reclamation Area 8. 3.1.1 Vegetation Cover 8. 3.1.2 Herbaceous Production 9. 3.1.3 Species Composition 9. Comparison of 2003 Reclamation Area with Final Revegetation • 3 2 9 Success Criteria 4.0 DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS 11. 4.1 Vegetation Cover 11. 4.2 Herbaceous Production 11. 4.3 Species Composition 11. 5.0 SUMMARY 12. 7.0 LITERATURE CITED 13. 8.0 TABLES 14. 9.0 APPENDIX 18. • Page 3 LIST OF TABLES • Page 1. 2009 Plant Species List: Keenesburg Mine 2003 Reclamation Area 15. 2. Vegetation Cover: 2003 Reclamation Area(2009) 16. 3. Herbaceous Production: 2003 Reclamation Area(2009) 17. APPENDIX Pace Coors Energy Company 2009 Vegetation Sample Points Appendix • Page 4 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY • Quantitative sampling of the 2003 reclamation area at the Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine was conducted in August 2009. Vegetation cover, total herbaceous production, and species composition were sampled. Comparisons were made between total vegetation cover and total herbaceous production means from the reclamation area and predicted values calculated from the approved equations based on on-site precipitation from September 2008 to July 2009. These predictive equations establish the final revegetation success criteria for total vegetation cover and total herbaceous production for the mine. The 2003 reclamation area mean for total vegetation cover exceeded the predicted value of 35.69 percent in 2009. As with total vegetation cover, the 2003 reclamation area exceeded the predicted total herbaceous production criterion of 135.07 grams/square meter. Species composition of the reclamation areas was also evaluated from a final success criterion perspective. Based on relative cover data, the 2003 reclamation area met the species composition final success criterion. The 2003 reclamation area qualifies for CDRMS Phase II bond release from the perspective of establishment of a diverse, effective and permanent vegetation community of the same seasonal variety native to the land disturbed. 1.0 INTRODUCTION This report presents the results of quantitative sampling in support of a request for Phase II bond release for the 2003 reclamation areas at the Keenesburg Mine (Colorado Division of • Reclamation, Mining and Safety permit C-1981-028) owned by Coors Energy Company. Quantitative vegetative sampling is required by the Colorado Division of Reclamation, Mining and Safety (CDRMS) whenever a permittee requests a release from liability or bond in Phase II or Phase III of the bond release process. Vegetation sampling was performed in compliance with Colorado Mined Land Reclamation Board Surface Coal Mining Rules 2.04.10 and 4.15 at the time of sampling and current botanical and plant ecological methods. Field sampling for the areas monitored was conducted between August 3 and 4, 2009 by Savage and Savage, Inc. biologists. The Keenesburg Mine is located in Weld County, Colorado, approximately seven (7) miles north of Keenesburg, Colorado and is accessed by Weld County Road 59. Coors Energy Company operated the Keenesburg Mine for coal extraction from 1980 to 1988. Reclaimed areas sampled in 2009 were backfilled, graded, topsoiled and revegetated in accordance with the approved mining and reclamation plan. The revegetation standards used to evaluate these areas are those currently in effect under the Colorado Surface Coal Mining Reclamation Act (CRS 34-33-101 et seq) and the Keenesburg Mining and Reclamation Permit (C-1981-028). • Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine Page 5 2003 Reclamation Area Vegetation Report (2009) 2.0 METHODS • 2.1 SAMPLING DESIGN Prior to initiation of fieldwork, the permit document and applicable maps were reviewed to evaluate topography, reclamation timing, seed mixes, revegetation methods, management, and applicable revegetation standards. A map of the mine site at 1:2400 scale (1"=200') was used to delineate the revegetated area (Coors Site Plan; Vegetation Sampling Locations). On a gridded overlay of the revegetation map, a Cartesian coordinate grid (50x50 feet) was established. Computer generated random numbers were used to establish a pool of x,y coordinates. Sample sites were located in the field through compass triangulation and pacing from known landmarks. The Coors Energy Company 2009 Vegetation Sample Points map (Appendix) illustrates the location of the reclaimed area and sample point locations within the 2003 Reclamation Area. 2.2 FIELD SAMPLING 2.2.1 Timing Field investigation for the 2003 reclamation areas was undertaken during the period August 3-4, 2009. This time period coincided with anthesis and maximum development of the • majority of plant species found in the reclaimed areas at the mine site and adjacent native areas. Total annual precipitation at the mine in calendar year 2009 to date was above normal. Cumulative precipitation between September 2008 and July 2009 (growing season precipitation) was 23.5 percent above the sixteen year mine average. Precipitation in the autumn and early winter of 2008 was near average levels. April, June, and July 2009 precipitation levels far exceeded average, providing significant growing season moisture for the revegetated areas. 2.2.2 Vegetation Cover Vegetation cover was estimated by the use of the point-intercept method. An ocular point frame (ESCO Associates) was used to minimize instrument error and maximize precision and observer accuracy. Cover transects were 25 meters in length, with two sample data points collected at 1.0 meter intervals along the transect on opposite sides of the transect centerline, 1.5m apart. Transect direction was established randomly through the use of computer generated random directions (0-360°). In no event were transects allowed to extend within ten feet of reference or revegetated area boundaries to minimize impacts from "edge effect." For statistical purposes, each cover transect (comprising 50 data points) served as a sample unit. Data points recorded the first vertical "hit" on vegetation (above or below the • instrument), soil (bare ground), rock, litter, or cryptogamic crust. Subsequent "hits" on vegetation (prior to interception of the ground)were also recorded. Cover data were recorded Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine Page 6 2003 Reclamation Area Vegetation Report (2009) and reported by individual plant species. The first interception was used to calculate total vegetation cover values. Additional interceptions were used to calculate relative cover of individual plant species and lifeforms. The quantitative cover data also provided the basis for calculation of species composition and relative importance. 2.2.3 Herbaceous Production Herbaceous production was estimated by the harvest method. One herbaceous production plot was located and randomly oriented at the origin of each cover transect. Additional production plots were randomly located. Herbaceous production plots were 0.50 square meters in area. All current year above ground live herbaceous plant biomass was clipped within the 0.50 square meter quadrat. Production material was air dried until weights varied by no more than 0.1g. 2.2.4 Species Composition Species composition information was derived from quantitative vegetation cover data. Relative cover information provided a basis for evaluation of the importance of each encountered plant species and lifeform and for comparison to the final revegetation success criterion. The tables presenting data summaries for total vegetation cover for each area sampled also contain the relative cover by species, and a column depicting the numerical ranking of each species by relative cover within the area. 2.3 SAMPLE NUMBERS/SAMPLE ADEQUACY For the purposes of this study, total vegetation cover and total herbaceous production sampling were undertaken to sample adequacy for each sampling unit with a minimum of fifteen (15) samples. Parameter testing occurred at the one-sided 90% confidence level. Comparisons between sample mean parameter values and the revegetation success standard assume that the sample mean value accurately represents the population mean in all cases. The following formula was used for sample adequacy calculations: (02 (s)2 nmin (d Xbar)2 where: nmin =minimum sample size s= sample standard deviation t=the Student's t distribution value at the 90% level(one-sided) d =percent acceptable deviation from the mean (10%) Xbar= sample mean Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine Page 7 2003 Reclamation Area Vegetation Report (2009) 2.4 STATISTICAL ANALYSIS • • Statistical analysis for the revegetation success criterion of total vegetation cover is required if the value of the sample mean from the reclaimed area is less than 90 percent of the value of the final revegetation success criteria for total vegetation cover or total herbaceous production. Sampling revealed that the mean total vegetation cover and total herbaceous production mean for the 2003 reclamation area sampling units significantly exceeded the final total vegetation cover and total herbaceous production criteria values, therefore no statistical analysis was necessary. 2.5 SPECIES IDENTIFICATION AND VERIFICATION Species identification was accomplished in the field through the use of plant identification keys (Harrington, 1954, Weber, 1990; Whitson, 1987; Zimdahl, 1990, Stubbendieck, et al, 1995). In cases where plant identification was inconclusive in the field, voucher specimens were pressed for lab identification. 3.0 RESULTS 3.1 QUANTITATIVE EVALUATION: 2003 RECLAMATION AREA • The 2003 reclamation area encompasses just over eight acres of reclamation in one parcel within the Keenesburg Mine permit area. The areas include Area 29, formerly a part of B Pit. The 2003 reclamation area parcel is relatively flat with a gentle slope to the east. Initial seeding with the permanent seed mix took place in November 2003. Specific vegetation information for the 2003 reclamation area is contained in Tables 1, 2, and 3. 3.1.1 VEGETATION COVER Total mean vegetation cover of the 2003 reclamation area was 61.60 percent. Graminoids provided 42.80 percent mean cover (72.92% relative cover), forbs accounted for 18.53 percent mean cover (26.53% relative cover), and one shrub contributed 0.27 percent mean and 0.54 percent relative cover. The most frequently encountered species were Calamovilfa longifolia (prairie sandreed), and Bouteloua gracilis (blue grama), present in all transects. Bromus tectorum (cheatgrass) and Helianthus annuus (sunflower) were present in 93 percent of transects while Sisymbrium altissimum (tumble mustard) was encountered in 67 percent of transects. All other species were encountered in fewer than fifty percent of transects. Overall within the 2003 reclamation area, the perennial warm season native grass Calamovilfa longifolia was dominant, with a contribution of 14.93 percent mean and 25.81 percent relative cover. Seven additional species encountered during cover sampling contributed three or more percent relative cover, including; Bouteloua gracilis providing • 11.60 percent mean total cover (21.66 % relative cover), Helianthus annuus contributing 8.93 percent mean total and 13.00 percent relative cover, Bromus tectorum with 7.20 percent Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine Page 8 2003 Reclamation Area Vegetation Report (2009) mean (9.75% relative cover), Kochia scoparia (kochia) with 3.73 percent mean cover(5.05% relative cover), Sisymbrium altissimum providing 3.33 and 4.69 percent mean and relative cover, Andropogon hallii (sand bluestem) contributing 2.40 percent mean and 4.51 percent relative cover, and Oryzopsis hymenoides (Indian ricegrass) providing 1.73 and 3.07 percent mean and relative cover, respectively. Vegetative litter (prior years growth, dead wood, and other biologic organic material) comprised 26.40 percent ground cover overall within the 2003 reclamation area. Bare soil comprised 12.00 percent of the ground cover. No rock or cryptogams were encountered during the cover sampling. 3.1.2 HERBACEOUS PRODUCTION Total herbaceous production within the 2003 reclamation area was 268.63 g/m2 (2394 lb/ac). 3.1.3 Species Composition Cover sampling identified three lifeforms and twenty-six species within the 2003 reclamation area. The lifeforms included eleven species of perennial grass, two annual grass species, three perennial forbs, one biennial forb, eight annual forbs, and one perennial shrub. Of the species encountered on the 2003 reclamation areas, eighteen were native and eight were introduced. Perennial species outnumbered annual species by fifteen to ten, with one biennial. Both warm and cool season species contributed to the seasonality of the 2003 reclamation area. Warm season graminoids outnumbered cool season graminoids by seven to . six. Cool season forbs prevailed by a margin of nine to three. The shrub was deciduous. The 2003 reclamation area had eight species contributing greater than three percent relative cover this year. Those species included four perennial grasses, one annual grass, and three annual forbs. These species included Calamovilfa longifolia (25.81%), Bouteloua gracilis (21.66 %), Helianthus annuus (13.00%), Bromus tectorum (9.75%), Kochia scoparia (5.05%), Sisymbrium altissimum (4.69%), Andropogon hallii (4.51%), and Oryzopsis hymenoides (3.07%). 3.2 COMPARISON OF 2003 RECLAMATION AREA WITH FINAL RE- VEGETATION SUCCESS CRITERIA Comparison of the reclaimed area values for vegetation cover, herbaceous production, and species composition with the final revegetation success criteria, indicates whether revegetation has been successful and compliant with requirements for Phase II or Phase III bond release. CDRMS Rule 3.03.1(2) provides for release of bond, "upon the establishment of vegetation which supports the approved post-mining land use and which meets the approved success standard for cover pursuant to 4.15.8..." The tables below allow the comparison of the parameter values from the 2009 sampling at the 2003 reclamation area with the standard to be achieved, either from the predictive equations in the case of vegetation cover (y=0.0173x3-0.8592x2+14.562x-47.015) and herbaceous production • (1=0.3749x2'2ass) or the established standard for species composition. Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine Page 9 2003 Reclamation Area Vegetation Report (2009) Total Vegetation Cover(2009) • Predictive Equation Value for 2009:35.69 % total vegetation cover 2003 Reclamation Area Xbar 61.60 S 4.85 N 15 Nmin 1 Based on the results of the 2009 quantitative sampling, the 2003 reclamation area exceeded the predicted total cover vegetation value of 35.69 percent, meeting the final revegetation success criterion for vegetation cover. Total Herbaceous Production (2009) Predictive Equation Value for 2009: 135.07 g/m2 total herbaceous productions 2003 Reclamation Area Xbar 268.63 S 81.81 N 25 • Nmin 16 The 2003 reclamation area exceeded the predicted value for total herbaceous production, thereby meeting the final revegetation success criterion and supporting the post-mining land use. Species Composition (2009) Success 2003 Reclamation Standard Area Total Perennial Species* 4 4 (>3% rel.cover) Warm Season Grasses* 3 3 Cool Season Grasses* 1 1 Relative Importance All Species All Species (3%<x<40%) P * Numbers reflect only those species meeting the relative importance percentage limitation The 2003 reclamation area met the requirements for species composition, thereby meeting the final revegetation success criterion and supporting the post-mining land use. • Coors Energy Company Keeneeburg Mine Page 10 2003 Reclamation Area Vegetation Report (2009) 4.0 DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS • The 2003 reclamation area was quantitatively sampled in 2009 to evaluate whether the area would qualify for Phase II bond release. 4.1 VEGETATION COVER Mean total vegetation cover (61.60%) of the 2003 reclamation area significantly exceeded the value of the final revegetation success criterion (35.69%). Perennial species accounted for 65.87 percent of total relative cover (62.99% graminoids, 2.34% forbs, 0.54% shrubs). Of the total vegetation cover, native species contributed 79.41 percent (62.99% graminoids, 15.88% forbs, 0.54% shrubs). These results indicate the establishment of a predominantly perennial, native vegetation community at the 2003 reclamation area, with total vegetation cover significantly more than that of the revegetation success criterion. 4.2 HERBACEOUS PRODUCTION Mean herbaceous production for the 2003 reclamation area (268.63g/m2) significantly exceeded the predicted total herbaceous production (135.07g/m2). The significant values of biomass production in the reclamation indicate success in providing forage habitat for wildlife species in the post mining land use. 4.3 SPECIES COMPOSITION • The Colorado Division of Reclamation, Mining and Safety considers species composition of the revegetated and reclaimed areas to be an indicator of successful vegetation establishment and a diverse vegetation community. The species composition standard requires that there be at least four perennial species, of which three are warm season grasses and one a cool season grass. No one component of the above four species should comprise greater than 40% relative importance nor less than 3% relative importance. Relative importance will be measured by calculating relative cover of the revegetation species. Vegetation species which may be used in the calculation of species composition may be any plant species not defined as a noxious or prohibited plant species, and may be native or introduced. The 2003 reclamation area met the number of perennial warm season grass species (3), with Andropogon hallii, Bouteloua gracilis, and Calamovilfa longifolia accounting for between three and forty percent relative cover. Oryzopsis hymenoides, a perennial cool season grass, provided the necessary cool season grass component. No pests or diseases were present within the 2003 reclamation area, nor were there annual species that would negatively impact the longevity of the reclaimed vegetation community. • Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine Page 11 2003 Reclamation Area Vegetation Report (2009) 5.0 SUMMARY • Quantitative vegetation sampling of the 2003 reclamation area revealed that the reclamation met the requirements for final revegetation success for total vegetation cover, total herbaceous production, and species composition. Tables 1, 2 and 3 reveal that the total number of species encountered during sampling is significant and diverse in numbers of species, lifeforms, and seasonal variety. Based on the results of the 2009 quantitative vegetation sampling at the 2003 reclamation area, it was concluded that the requirements of CDRMS Rule 3.03.1(2) have been satisfied, and that the sampling results demonstrate the establishment of vegetation which supports the approved post-mining land use and which meets the approved success standard for cover. • • Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine Page 12 2003 Reclamation Area Vegetation Report (2009) 7.0 LITERATURE CITED . Harrington, H.D. 1954 Manual of the Plants of Colorado. Sage Books. Denver Stubbendieck, J., G.Y. Friisoe, and M.R. Bolick. 1995. Weeds of Nebraska and the Great Plains. Nebraska Department of Agriculture. Weber, William A. 1990. Colorado Flora: Eastern Slope. University of Colorado Press Whitson, Tom D. Editor. 1987. Weeds and Poisonous Plants of Wyoming and Utah. Cooperative Extension Service, College of Agriculture, The University of Wyoming Zimdahl, Robert L. 1990. Weeds of Colorado. Cooperative Extension, Colorado State University Bulletin 521A • Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine Page 13 2003 Reclamation Area Vegetation Report (2OO9) 8.0 TABLES • • • Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine Page 14 2003 Reclamation Area Vegetation Report (2009) Table 1. 2009 Plant Species List: Keenesburg Mine 2003 Reclamation Area Species Name Common Name Lifeform • Graminoids Agropyron dasystachyum Thickspike Wheatgrass P,C,N Agropyron trachycaulum Slender Wheatgrass P,C,N Andropogon hallii Sand Bluestem P,W,N Bouteloua curtipendula Sideoats Grama P,W,N Bouteloua gracilis Blue Grama P,W,N Bromus marginatus Mountain Brome P,C,N Bromus tectorum Cheatgrass A,C,I Calamovilfa longifolia Prairie Sandreed P,W,N Eragrostis cilianensis Stinkgrass A,W,I Oryzopsis hymenoides Indian Ricegrass P,C,N Panicum virgatum Switchgrass P,W,N Sporobolus cryptandrus Sand Dropseed P,W,N Stipa viridula Green Needlegrass P,C,N Forbs Ambrosia psilostachya Ragweed P,C,N Chenopodium album Lambsquarters A,C,I Conyza canadensis Horseweed P,W,N Eriogonum annuum Buckwheat A,C,N Helianthus annuus Sunflower A,W,N • Erigeron speciosus Daisy A,C,N Kochia scoparia Kochia A,C,I Medicago lupulina Black Medic A,C,I Melilotus officinalis Yellow Sweetclover B,C,I Nuttallia nuda Blazing Star P,W,N Sisymbrium altissimum Tumble Mustard A,C,I Tragopogon dubius Salsify A,C,I Shrubs Artemesiafrlifolia Sand Sage P,D,N Total Number of Grasses 13 Total Number of Forbs 12 Total Number Perennial Grasses 11 Total Number Perennial Forbs 3 Total Number Annual Grasses 2 Total Number Biennial Forbs 1 Total Number Native Grasses II Total Number Annual Forbs 8 Total Number Introduced Grasses 2 Total Number Native Forbs 6 Total Number Cool Season Grasses 6 Total Number Introduced Forbs 6 Total Number Warm Season Grasses 7 Total Number Cool Season Forbs 9 Total Number Shrubs 1 Total Number Warm Season Forbs 3 TOTAL NUMBER OF SPECIES 26 Lifeform abbreviations: A:annual B:biennnial P:perennial C:cool season W:warm season • D:deciduous Note: Only plant species encountered during cover sampling are represented on this list Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine Page 15 2003 Reclamation Area Vegetation Report (2009) el a• C ^.O, 10 O N'O e} r.IPW 'e' er?,ib IN O � H O M Ifi b c, cob,01 'ICI ° ` � Nl � I ry N I o o > N�n�so N W�l W m N— cc 0,W ten N Q�W in rn oo a O,m�- m b cc in r:!° 61-7) \°27 �'n O 0 J NRIN,N 0 011N�O M O�o.O 1- � O OdO'O „m N O�O'O •p co N 'o O p O O 0 0 O '1 O O 1 1 N I�I`OS O Ib ImN � _I�I��.t^, yN m T rN .mrmMM Ir h b v, o b N O E E ",.. to ez'^ o o o0 y logos of of ae ri o of o se o °° o o - -or ry in b b ,b b�y I �W�� I N. 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February 2010 • TABLE OF CONTENTS Page 1.0 INTRODUCTION 1. 2.0 METHODS 2. 3.0 RESULTS 5. 4.0 CONCLUSIONS 6. 5.0 LITERATURE CITED 7. 6.0 TABLES 8. 7.0 FIGURES 14. • TABLES Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine, 1. Sedimentology Evaluation, CDRMS Phase II Bond Release 2010 (Pages 1-3) 3 Values of the topographic factor-LS, for specific combinations of slope length and steepness 10. Factor C for permanent pasture, range, and idle land FIGURES 1 Coors Energy Company Reclamation Contour and Drainage Plan Map (with cross sections identified) 2. Undisturbed Adjacent Area Cross Section Locations • ii • 1.0 INTRODUCTION This sedimentology evaluation has been prepared as part of an application for Phase II bond release for Areas 2, 5, 6, 7, 9, 10, 15, 16, 19, 23, and 29, reclaimed between 1998 and 2003 at the Keenesburg Mine (Colorado Division of Reclamation, Mining, and Safety (CDRMS) permit C-1981-028). At this time, coal extraction is no longer occurring at the Keenesburg Mine, and approved ash disposal and ongoing reclamation activities are occurring. The reclaimed areas included in this evaluation comprise former portions of the coal extraction pits, roadways, and ancillary disturbed areas that have been backfilled and graded, topsoiled, and revegetated. Documented within is information relative to the erosion and sedimentation condition of these reclaimed areas, and the native sandsage vegetation community adjacent to the mine. Quantitative sampling of reclaimed area vegetation for this Phase II bond release application was performed in August 2009, in compliance with Colorado Mined Land Reclamation Board Surface Coal Mining Rules and guidelines and is appended to the bond release application. Sedimentation and erosion analysis was conducted by Michael Savage of Savage and Savage, Inc. • • Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine Page 1 Phase II pond Release Sedimentology Demonstration 2010 • 2.0 METHODS SEDIMENTOLOGY DEMONSTRATION In order to satisfy one of the requirements for Phase II bond release, reclaimed areas must be shown to contribute equal or less sediment to the receiving waters downstream. There are several methods by which to compare sediment generation from a disturbed site and that from an adjacent undisturbed site. Historically, CDRMS has used a model (SEDCAD+) to evaluate similar or identical watershed sections within the reclaimed area and adjacent undisturbed area. There are limitations to this approach, as there are rarely identical adjacent watersheds. Further, exact knowledge of all of the parameter values for the areas to be compared is often not available. Given the relatively small size of the disturbance evaluated at the Keenesburg Mine (51.05 acres), we elected to compare sediment generation from the reclaimed site and the adjacent undisturbed area through the use of the Universal Soil Loss Equation(USLE) (Wishmeier and Smith, 1965). The USLE uses readily available information on the rainfall, topography, soil particle size characteristics, vegetation, and cultivation practices to generate the amount of soil loss in tons/acre/year. The USLE accounts for rill and inter-rill erosion, the types of erosion commonly found on reclaimed areas. The USLE takes the form: • A=R*K*LS*C*P where: A= soil loss in tons/acre/year R=rainfall factor accounting for the interrelationship between the erosive force of rainfall and runoff K= soil erodibility factor addressing a given soil's susceptibility to erosion LS = length slope factor providing the ratio of soil loss at any length and slope to a standard slope and length C =cover factor accounting for plant and litter cover on the ground surface P = control practice factor addressing the erosion reduction effectiveness of soil conservation practices Each of the above factors will be briefly addressed relative to the existing conditions at the Keenesburg Mine site and adjacent area. • Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine Page 2 Phase II Bond Release Sedimentology Demonstration 2010 • RAINFALL FACTOR(R) The rainfall factor addresses the interrelationship of the erosive forces of falling raindrops and runoff to predict both rill and inter-rill erosion. In this demonstration, an average annual value of R was computed based on a Type II storm event (Barfield, Warner, and Haan, 1981). The equation used to compute the R factor is as follows: Average Annual R=27*(P2 6)z.2 where PZ 6 is the 2-year, 6 hour precipitation in inches from published rainfall data (e.g., Miller, et al, 1973). The 2-year, 6-hour Type II storm event for the Keenesburg, Colorado area was conservatively identified as 1.4 inches of rainfall. The annual average R factor is then computed to be 56.60 for both the reclaimed and adjacent undisturbed areas. SOIL ERODIBILITY FACTOR(K) The soil erodibility factor K is a measure of a soil's susceptibility to erosion and was determined from the USDA SCS publication, Soils of Colorado: Loss Factors and Erodibility Hydrologic Groupings. Two soil series were present prior to mining, the Osgood and Valent soil series. The single difference between these soils is the lack of a • "B" horizon in the Valent sand. The native sand sage community was presumed to have a mixture of these soil series, as were the reclaimed areas. A K factor of 0.11 was used for the reclaimed areas, based on K values for "A", "B", and subsoil horizons salvaged from the Valent and Osgood soils. A K value of 0.10 was used for the native area, based on K values for surface soil horizons from the Valent and Osgood soils. LENGTH SLOPE FACTOR (LS) The steepness of the slope and the length of the slope both affect the degree of soil erosion on a given slope surface. The LS factor is a ratio of soil loss at any length and slope to that of a standard empirical slope. In the instance of the Keenesburg Mine site, the reclaimed and adjacent undisturbed slopes are of relatively uniform slope for the areas of concern. In this case the LS factor can be calculated by the following equation: LS =(X i 72.6)m * (430x2 +30x +0.43)/6.613 where: X is slope length x is sin 0(where 0 is the angle of slope) m is a slope dependent exponent (0.5 in our case) During the SL-03 Phase II bond release, CDRMS reviewers requested that the LS factors for the sedimentology evaluation be derived from the nomograph contained in Techical Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine Page 3 Phase II Bond Release Sedimentology Demonstration 2010 • Note #51 from the USDA. The characteristics of the slopes at the Keenesburg Mine within the areas to be evaluated for release were derived from cross sections identified on Figure 1. For undisturbed area slope characteristics, the cross section locations are depicted on Figure 2. The LS factor values for the reclaimed and undisturbed areas were derived from Table 3 (appended) in the successor document to Technical Note #51, Agricultural Handbook No. 537 (Wishmeier and Smith, 1978). The LS factor values derived for each reclaimed area and the adjacent undistrubed areas are summarized in Table 1 (Pages 1 and 3). COVER FACTOR (C) The cover factor in the USLE accounts for the effect of plant and litter cover on the ground surface in reducing erosion by intercepting raindrops and reducing direct contact with the soil. For the varying vegetation types such as that at the Keenesburg Mine, Table 10 (Wishmeier and Smith, 1978) was used in conjunction with the 2009 reclaimed area vegetation data to develop the appropriate factor values. At the undisturbed adjacent sandsage community, the vegetative cover is a mixture of low to moderately sized sand sage interspersed with grasses and forbs. The grasses are either warm season bunch or sod-formers. This community falls into the category of communities with a canopy of tall weeds or short brush. The canopy coverage of the sand • sage community falls between 25 and 50 percent, and the community is dominated by grass. The percent of ground cover contacting the surface is approximately 60 percent (total vegetation cover minus woody plant canopy cover plus litter). From this characterization a cover value of 0.036 was interpolated from Table 10. Within the reclaimed areas, the mean total vegetation cover is comprised largely of sod- forming and bunch grasses with spreading bases, and standing litter. These types of vegetation provide significant cover contacting the ground surface. This vegetation community fits within the no appreciable canopy category of Table 10. Individual reclaimed area C factor values were derived from Table 10 through interpolation and are presented in Table 1 (Page 2). CONTROL PRACTICE FACTOR(P) This factor is used to identify those soil conservation and sediment control practices which affect the level of sediment generated from a site (e.g., ditches, ponds, sediment traps). In this comparison we are interested in the sediment generated from the reclaimed site above such structures, as if they had been removed. Likewise, for the undisturbed area, there are no such controls. Therefore, for the purposes of our comparison, a value of unity (one) will be assigned this factor, rendering no impact to our calculations. • Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine Page 4 Phase II Bond Release Sedimentology Demonstration 2010 • 3.0 RESULTS USLE CALCULATIONS Table 1 (page 3) summarizes the calculated sediment yield for each reclaimed area to be considered for Phase II bond release as well as the overall mean for the reclaimed areas. The projected sediment yield from adjacent undistrubed areas is also presented (these are the same areas evalauted in the 2005 Phase II bond release). The projected mean sediment yield from the reclaimed area is 0.020 tons/acre/year (with individual reclaimed areas ranging from 0.002 to 0.085 tons/acre/year). Projected sediment yield from the adjacent undisturbed area is 1.065 tons/acre/year. • • Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine Page5 Phase II Bond Release Sedimentology Demonstration 2010 • 4.0 CONCLUSIONS The results of the USLE calculations show that the reclaimed areas are projected to produce less sediment than the adjacent undisturbed sandsage area. The equation verifies what is expected in this case and also what has been seen at other reclaimed sites in Colorado. Based on the results of the sedimentology evaluation, the reclaimed areas at the Keenesburg Mine qualify for Phase II bond release at this time. • Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine Page 6 Phase II Bond Release Sedimentology Demonstration 2010 5.0 LITERATURE CITED • Barfield, B.J., R.C. Warner, and C.T. Haan. 1983. Applied Hydrology and Sedimentology for Disturbed Areas, Oklahoma Technical Press,Norman, OK Miller, J.F.,et al. 1973. Precipitation Frequency Atlas of the Western United States, Volume III-Colorado, U.S. Department of Commerce,NOAA Wishmeier, W.H. and D.D. Smith. 1978. Rainfall erosion losses- a guide to conservation planning. Agricultural Handbook No. 537, USDA, Washington, D.C. • • Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine Page 7 Phase II Bond Release Sedimentology Demonstration 2010 6.0 TABLES • • Coors Energy Company Keenesburg MinePage B Phase II Bond Release Sedimentology Demonstration 2010 I W d O v d in 0 IN d' O O to co r Ti- N) W 0 co to tO 0 to t9 N r N 0) N) 0 . I* * N) ts) to NN 0 t- ce.n N r CJ III H0 O O O N N) O O OIr 0 0 O rod r O O - 1 I co W O o to CO cO r l d- o tO ' to r t-- to T r a to ,to o 2 O N O ,r O OTt cOO '. O rjN 0 ',r - N r 0 N e 4 O E 0 0 ° ° 0 0 0 0 0 0 OO O r to 010 0 0 O 0 0 0 0 0 0 010 O to * O0 O CD 0 0 0 0 0 W * N r r to t� N CO N In CD N CO t` N N N N O In N to to U X _.. _.1__ cn - l W a z to N W ° O O O IO 00 20 to rlir COI0 O r to IO r r r a0) t tO r !t O U Q N) Z Q J O 0 0C to Wto Z N co CO 0 .4 0 O to d' d' t N 0 0 0 !O al Z t� '',cp 0 c0 0 co 6) r N r 0 0 r tO t` to N 1.14 0 0 0 N N t` t` to * t� t0 c0 t4 t-• t0 co co t-- t` t0 Z NN j C9 * C9 O t0 0 CO 0 0 tO tO 0 0 0 0 Q in ONinCO N 0 N O IL -1 t- t� CO h m t0 CO cO c0 c0 c0 Ito c0 t0 00 t` (O o• Z W W d' * ct * d. 9 4 4 d- * 4 d. 4 4 d- d " < W I }O - W I W j z - - .- _ —_- a .- a W } too z E 7 •m m E - Q m N H O t6 O p OJ tD W Q m _ b Q io cO tq Na) �'" 3 NU) C9 l0 h a) r r r r r N Q to .) bi 00 w d N N In 6 CO 0 ' O O tor r r N 'N Q tbII0 C • W al es co r r W 1411.1.11.1.1 n O o DZ O > > ≥ > r< totnU ' _L zzZIZ 2 1 Z • N O Q OZ 0 0 to 0 t '0 0 0 N 0 0 to 0- W O 0 N 010 0 0 0 tD tq * 0 N CO O7 '`(Si h O N N i c9 to CO C9 to r NN r tO tO N !N N N N I m 0 0 0 0 t` 0 0 0 0 0 t` 0 0 0 0 0 t` 0 0 0 0 ON d 2 NO OO O O 'O N 0 0O O to CO CO O '0 0 0 r O 00 r 'O to to 0 0 0 0 to t0 O O 0 CO tO 7.t) 0 t` 6) r co to N 0 d' 0 r. CO O) 52 tt„ r r t0 r N t0 N N r r Ui QU OL Q I 2 • DC 0 U ≥ W 0 0 0 OLD r 0 0 <o O 0 c0 0 !0 to 0 r r O 0 N t9 CO C9 OU N tt) 61 t0 0 d' t- 'O O N t- N O) o iol to todttO1- totot � d d to la Z Z O O I p[ 0 O CZ 2 D I !. Da L W > I z a U Y 0 z 0 0 tD O t- 0 0 0 N 0 0 1- } O Z 0 0 1` O N 0 0 0 * O 0 to z N 0 C9 * dJ N 0 O N c0 6) N 00 CO t� r CO O) t0 47 : O) cQ 03 cO <o CO O 0 W 0 I e • 0 z Rs z w al }. Di• a z w O I 00 0 2 U NtD ' c9 t- 0") r rir 4) I tO CS) N N r W tD 0 • al-I2-L- CI DZ ca • w D H (S) U - I -. .l ! 1 __ i o �� CD t to ;r N to t- 0 * 0 m o t0 o to to to to O W <I to c- r O O m n o O r r O r N 0 0 0 0 0 200000000000000 O o ,0 O O ~ 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 O ,O O r cc r r Q I O • 0 o_ r r r c r r r r '. r r r r 0 rHr rir q r r W o N N O to n n O r t- ,6 r * 00000 Q O 0 0 to N 0 0 to 0 o N t� 0 to t0 t0 0 r r 'O O OH- ' 0 O O O 'O r 0 0 O o 0 O O O O ' O O ,O ; O O O O O ' O O O O O O , O 0 0 6 6 6 6 6 ' 6 6 !6 6 :6 6 6 6 6 O I O P I to O UJ r tom N N I N N tQ O * to MMMMM UO 0 r N CD t- i to w col * O * r r... t0 N NN N N J J In r t0 r ;0 0 O r r N t r N t0 N NIN N N • Q O O 'O OO r O ,O O 'O o0 O O In ln , ln to In 0 w j z to __. _. - m mr r ' r r .rj - r ',r r 'r r r r r 0 �O o ,0 O Y r r r r 'r r r .r r ' r r r r r c r 'r r wo O '.O o ',O ' O O Oi, O O ' O O 'O O o 6I6 0 0 0 z w O c.. '.__ J _ _. _. • o z N Q N CD c !O O tD co 0 o tD i CD W CD co 2 0 0 0 '0 2 • z Q o c 0O cD 0 O 00 o t9 tD CD O • CD O O t9 0 2 L In to In to In In In In 'ln to In to to C9 In In In In 2 }• < pz o w j Z = R w } m I E m , m E O za RS 0 w 0 I M O , c 3 ~ N to mis t-. O ,O O O to O o n o Q n u ,o 0 Z d U 0 ,0 r r .., r r ... r N ,,,N , Q to o n 111 2 et 6 w fl Q ¢ Q Q F N o I Z Z 'Z Z 12 UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, AGRICULTURE HANDBOOK NUMBER 537 TOPOGRAPHIC FACTOR (LS) • Both the length and the steepness of the land loss equation by L and 5, respectively. In field slope substantially affect the rate of soil erosion by applications, however, considering the two as a water. The two effects have been evaluated sep- single topographic factor, IS, is more convenient. arately in research and are represented in the soil Slope-Effect Chart • is is the expected ratio of soil loss per unit area Ls=(X/72.6)". (65.41 sin' 0+4.56 sin 0+0.065) (4) from a field slope to that from a 72.6-ft length of where X=slope length in feet; uniform 9-percent slope under otherwise identical conditions. This ratio for specified combinations of B =angle of slope;and field slope length and uniform gradient may be m =0.5 if the percent slope is 5 or more, 0.4 on obtained directly from the slope-effect chart (fig. slopes of 3.5 to 4.5 percent, 0.3 on slopes of 1 to 4). Enter on the horizontal axis with the field slope 3 percent, and 0.2 on uniform gradients of less length, move vertically to the appropriate percent- than 1 percent. slope curve, and read IS on the scale at the left. The basis for this equation is given in the sub- For example, the IS factor for a 300-ft length of section discussing the individual effects of slope 10-percent slope is 2.4. Those who prefer a table length and steepness. However, the relationships may use table 3 and interpolate between listed expressed by the equation were derived from data values. obtained on cropland, under natural rainfall, on To compute soil loss from slopes that are ap- slopes ranging from 3 to 18 percent in steepness preciably convex, concave, or complex, the chart and about 30 to 300 ft in length. How for beyond LS values need to be adjusted as indicated in the these ranges in slope characteristics the relation- section 1.5 Values for Irregular Slopes. Figure 4 ships derived from the data continue to be accu- and table 3 assume slopes that have essentially rate has not been determined by direct soil loss uniform gradient. The chart and table were de- measurements. • rived by the equation The Palouse Region of the Northwest represents TABLE 3.Values of the topographic factor, IS,for specific combinations of slope length and steepness' Slope length (feet) Percent 25 30 75 100 150 200 300 400 500 600 800 1,000 slope 0.2 0.060 0.069 0.075 0.080 0.086 0.092 0.099 0.105 0.110 0.114 0.121 0.126 0.5 .073 .083 .090 .096 .104 .110 .119 .126 .132 .137 .145 .152 0.8 .086 .098 .107 .113 .123 .130 .141 .149 .156 .162 .171 .179 2 .133 .163 .185 .201 .227 .248 .280 305 .326 .344 .376 .402 3 .190 .233 .264 .287 .325 .354 .400 .437 .466 .492 .536 .573 4 .230 .303 .357 .400 471 .528 .621 .697 .762 .820 .920 1.01 5 .268 .379 .464 .536 .656 .758 .928 1.07 1.20 1.31 1.52 1.69 6 .336 .476 .583 .673 .824 .952 1.17 1.35 1.50 1.65 1.90 2.13 8 .496 .701 .859 .992 1.21 1.41 1.72 1.98 2.22 2.43 2.81 3.14 10 .685 .968 1.19 1.37 1.68 1.94 2.37 2.74 3.06 3.36 3.87 4.33 12 .903 1.28 1.56 1.80 2.21 2.55 3.13 3.61 4.04 4.42 5.11 5.71 14 1.15 1.62 1.99 2.30 2.81 3.25 3.98 4.59 5.13 5.62 6.49 7.26 16 1.42 2.01 2.46 2.84 3.48 4.01 4.92 5.68 6.35 6.95 8.03 8.98 18 1.72 2.43 2.97 3.43 4.21 3.86 5.95 6.87 7.68 8.41 9J1 10.9 20 2.04 2.88 3.53 4.08 5.00 5.77 7.07 8.16 9.12 10.0 11.5 12.9 'Ls=(h/72 6).' (6541 sink 0+4.56 sin 0+0.065) where h=slope length in feet; m=0.2 for gradients < 1 percent, 0.3 for 1 to 3 percent slopes, 0.4 for 3.5 to 4.5 percent slopes, 0.5 for 5 percent slopes and steeper; and 0 =angle of slope. (For other combinations of length and gradient, interpolate between adl values or see fig.4.) 32 UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, AGRICULTURE HANDBOOK NUMBER 537 tion and developmental areas can be obtained tended to completely different situations by corn- from table 5 if good judgment is exercised in corn- bining subfactors that evaluate three separate and . paring the surface conditions with those of agri- distinct, but interrelated, zones of influence: (a) cultural conditions specified in lines of the table. vegetative cover in direct contact with the soil sur- Time intervals analogous to cropstage periods will face, (b) canopy cover, and (c) residual and tillage be defined to begin and end with successive con- effects. struction or management activities that appreciably Subfactors for various percentages of surface change the surface conditions. The procedure is cover by mulch are given by the upper curve of then similar to that described for cropland. Establishing vegetation on the denuded areas as TABLE 10.—Fodor C for permanent pasture,range, and quickly as possible is highly important. A good sod , idle land has a C value of 0.01 or less (table 5-B), but such a low C value can be obtained quickly only by Vegetative canopy Cover that cantons the soil surface laying sod on the area, at a substantial cost. When Type and Percent Peron ground cover grass or small height' covers Type, 0 20 40 60 80 95+ grain is started from seed, the probable soil loss for the period while cover is No appreciobla G 0.45 0.20 0.10 0.042 0.013 0.003 developing can be computed by the procedure C°°°py w 45 .24 .15 .091 .043 .011 outlined for estimating cropstage-period soil losses. Tall weeds or 25 G .36 .17 .09 .038 .013 .003 If the seeding is on topsoil, without a mulch, the short brush W .36 .20 .13 .083 .041 .011 soil loss ratios given in line 141 of table 5 are ap- with ge propriate for cropstage C values. If the seeding is drop fell height 50 G .26 .13 .07 .035 .012 .003 of 20 in W .26 .16 .11 .076 .039 .011 on a desurfaced area, where residual effects of • prior vegetation are no longer significant, the 75 G .17 .10 .06 .032 .011 .003 ratios for periods SB, 1 and 2 are 1.0, 0.75 and W .17 .12 .09 .068 .038 .011 0.50, respectively, and line 141 applies for crop- stage 3. When the seedbed is protected by a mulch, Appreciable brush 25 G 40 .18 .09 .040 .0)3 .003 or bushes, with W .40 .22 .14 .087 .042 .011 the pertinent mulch factor from the upper curve average drop fall • of figure 6 or table 9 is applicable until good height of 6S4 ft 50 G .34 .16 .08 .038 .0)2 .003 canopy cover is attained. The combined effects of W .34 .19 .13 .082 .041 .011 vegetative mulch and low-growing canopy are given in figure 7. When grass is established in 75 G 28 .14 .08 .036 .012 .003 W .28 .17 .12 .078 .040 .011 small grain, it can usually be evaluated as estab- lished meadow about 2 mo after the grain is cut. Trees, but no 25 G .42 .19 .10 .041 .013 .003 appreciable low W .42 .23 .14 .089 .042 .011 C Values for Pasture, Range, and Idle Land brush. Average Factor C for a specific combination of cover drop fall height 50 G .39 .18 .09 .040 .013 .003 of 13 ft W .39 .21 .14 .087 .042 .011 conditions on these types of land may be obtained from table 10 (57). The cover characteristics that 75 G .36 .17 .09 .039 .012 .003 must be appraised before consulting this table are W .36 .20 .13 .084 .041 .011 defined in the table and its footnotes. Cropstage 'The listed C values assume that the vegetation and mulch ore periods and El monthly distribution data are gen- randomly d- buted over the entire area. -Canopy height is measured as the overage fall height of water orally not necessary where perennial vegetation drops falling from the canopy to the ground. Canopy effect is in- has become established and there is no mechanical versa): proportional to drop foil height and is negligible if fall ' disturbance of the soil. height exceeds 33 ft. Available soil loss data from undisturbed land 'Portion of total-area surface that would be hidden from view by were not sufficient to derive table 10 by direct canopy in a vertical projection (a bird's-eye view). comparison of measured soil loss rates, as was 4G: cover at surface is grass, grasslike plants, decoying con- done for development of table 5. However, analy- potted duff, or litter at least 2 in deep. W: cover at surface is mostly broadleaf herbaceous plants (as ses of the assembled erosion data showed that the weeds with little lateral-root network near the surface) or research information on values of C can be ex- undecayed residues or both. • • 7.0 FIGURES • • Coors Energy Company Keenesburg Mine Page 14 Phase II Bond Release Sedimentology Demonstration 2010 Large Maps Available for Viewing at the Clerk to the Board's Office in the Public Review file Foy y Its-MII3t • \SIr' Lail i ' _ I .. ¶I f _i h� I i cs 1 _pa_ :re :gym c'j ant.) cif �C; ` j�^7 F 3 i ii a`d \Z tp I Lo1'�I23 24a 1� 419• ' • A' ` 1, `* :� r _ , ,,` Itmr.s ‘ ,c<"r•" 0 i 1 ,ti \ 1 A f'-� , v., a l'''kb, ' ' :\ 4 , 2 1 t s c m ' --- o - $ '\ 1i mesa f_ . ` _ an `J.` c f1 it+ef: o pl \ `QC` _ L ` _ lV 3t� e / r1 °� of h 1l'! ems.. c. �.. ' \ J \ , 1 , ; 1 J TOPS4ND PILE f 0 .i ,._ z rte ` 3� k�_i•1,,,/ .. Y,. —..z. , D PILE3 C — a • Q Figure 2: 'surbd�aent e C�*oss gait n Lo tip �� \!� 1) : ( - \ / 41 ° .°� / .gin. �_\ Hello