HomeMy WebLinkAbout2014 Inspection Report_Little Chico Creek_FinalLittle Chico Creek Mine
(CA Mine ID# 91‐04‐0030)
2014 SMARA Mine Inspection Report
Prepared by:
Butte County Development Services Department
7 County Center Drive
Oroville, California 95965
September 24, 2014
1
2014 SMARA Mine Inspection
Little Chico Creek Mine
CA ID# 91‐04‐0030
Butte County, California
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Description Page #
1.0 Mine Description 2
2.0 Reclamation Objective 3
3.0 Observations 9
4.0 Reclamation Area 10
5.0 Financial Assurance 10
6.0 Violations / Corrective Measures 10
List of Figures
Figure 1 Site Location Map
Figure 2 Mining Plan
Figure 3 Typical Cross Sections
Figure 4 Reclamation and Revegetation Plan
List of Attachments
Attachment A 2014 Surface Mining Inspection Report
Attachment B Annotated Site Photographs
2
1.0 MINE DESCRIPTION
The +8.3‐acre hard‐rock (basalt) mine is located approximately 3.5 miles due east of the City of Chico,
California, within Section 11 of T22N, R2E (Paradise West 7.5 minute USGS Topographic Quadrangle),
M.D.B.M (see Figure 1). Access to the mine site is via Canyon Shadows Road, a private road accessed
from Humboldt Road. The gated entrance to Canyon Shadows Road is located ¼ mile from State Route
32. The mine site is located approximately 1.6 miles from the gated entrance, and consists of a paved
surface for approximately the first mile, then a gravel surface for the remaining distance.
Little Chico Creek Canyon is a rural area characterized by open space, oak woodlands, annual grasslands
and the perennially flowing Little Chico Creek, situated some 250 to 400 hundred feet south and down
slope of the mine site. While the quarry area is situated on a bench above the creek, the surrounding
canyon rises steeply in elevation some five to six hundred feet above the mine site.
Mining operations consist of utilizing a sidehill method of extraction, proceeding east from the sediment
basin, which is the low point of the mine site. Mining proceeds with the removal of any existing topsoil
and subsoil present in the quarry area, which is stockpiled in the designated area southeast of the
quarry. Basalt formations are fractured, either by ripping, or by drilling and blasting. Broken rock is
moved to the processing area by front‐end loaders, which is then crushed by a portable crusher.
Following crushing, materials are sorted by a screen to specified grades and conveyed to finished
stockpiles for export. Finished materials are exported from the site via Canyon Shadows Road.
Estimated annual production is 5,000 to 50,000 cubic yards of material, with an estimated total
production of 261,000 cubic yards.
2.0 RECLAMATION OBJECTIVE
Mining operations at Little Chico Creek Quarry are not phased, requiring the reclamation plan to be
implemented at the conclusion of all excavation and processing activities. Reclamation typically includes
several components: topsoil and overburden storage while mining occurs, recontouring to stable grades
when mining is complete, preparation of the recontoured land for revegetation (ripping compacted soil,
spreading of banked topsoil), revegetation according to a planting plan and, finally, monitoring for
reclamation success. As stated in the proposed Reclamation Plan, “final reclamation will be completed
within three years after the available reserves have been exhausted.”
1. General Information
a) Permitted Mineral Product(s): Aggregate
b) Production Amount (Annual/Gross): 5,000‐50,000 cu. yards/annual
261,000 cu. yards/gross
c) End Date of Operations: January 1, 2031
d) Permit End Date: N/A
e) End Use: Dryland Grazing
2. Boundaries
a) Property Boundary: ~320 acres
b) Permit Boundary: ~8.3 acres
c) Reclamation Plan Boundary: ~8.3 acres
d) Setbacks: N/A
3. Grading
3
Excavation will result in a +5‐acre quarry pit with a floor sloped at 1 percent towards the sediment pond,
surrounded by a vertical face ranging from a height of 10 feet, on the western quarry side, to
approximately 70 feet, on the eastern quarry side. A 10 foot wide debris bench will be placed around
the quarry face at mid‐height above the finished grade of the pit floor. Intermediate quarry slopes
above and below the bench are near 1.3:1 with the overall slope angle of 1.5:1 (as measured from the
top edge of the highway to the tow of the slope on the pit floor).
4. Erosion Control
The site operates under a Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) for industrial stormwater to
comply with the General Industrial Stormwater permit. The operator shall comply with the provisions of
the SWPPP. After cessation of industrial operations, the operator shall prepare a plan to identify and
evaluate sources of pollutants associated with reclamation activities that may affect the quality of storm
water discharges and authorized non‐storm water discharges from the facility. Once identified, the plan
shall identify and implement site‐specific best management practices (BMPs) to reduce or prevent
pollutants associated with reclamation activities. The erosion control plan will be kept by the foreman
at the quarry site. Additionally, a V‐type ditch shall be located above the stockpile to divert drainage
away from the stockpile and mining area.
5. Ponds
The sediment pond will be excavated on the mine floor in the northwest corner of the extraction area,
adjacent to the entrance on Canyon Shadows Road. The pond will be oval shaped, 140’ long by 60’ wide
and 8’ deep, and will be designed to accommodate in excess of the 1 hour, 20‐year storm event. The
pond will be retained after mining activities to be used as a stock pond.
6. Sensitive Wildlife & Plant Protection
No rare, threatened or endangered species, as listed by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife or
the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, or Species of Special Concern, were identified on the site.
7. Soil/Overburden Stockpile Management
All topsoil will be salvaged from the mining area prior to mining activities. The topsoil and overburden
storage areas are shown on the Mining Plan map (sheet 3 of 5 of the Reclamation Plan Maps). The
overburden stockpile will contain any subsoil material stripped from the extraction area as well as reject
material or fines from the crushing and screening operations. Topsoil and overburden stockpiles will not
exceed ten feet in height, and will have a maximum side slope of 2:1. The topsoil stockpile will have a
sign placed on it clearly stating that it is topsoil.
Soil and overburden stockpile areas will have their side slopes mulched if there is the potential of
erosion occurring on them. If there is erosion present after the mulching then an erosion control barrier
will be placed around the perimeter of the stockpile. This erosion barrier can consist of straw bales, silt
fence, fiber rolls, gravel berms or other devices. Stockpiles are considered to be eroding if they have
erosion rills greater than 5 square inches wide and exceeding five feet in length.
8. Revegetation
After final earthwork is completed and plan grade is achieved, the quarry floor will be ripped and the
stockpiled topsoil will be reapplied over the extraction area and the cut bank. The site shall be reseeded
in mid‐October with the following species:
• Zorro fescue @ 3 lbs/acre
• Bland brome @ 10 lbs/acre
• Rose clover @ 10 lbs/acre
4
• Burr clover @ 5 lbs/acre
• Lana vetch @ 15 lbs/acre
Fertilizer will be applied at a rate of 50 lbs/acre at the time of seeding. The entire site will be covered
with a straw mulch to enhance propagation and limit erosion. Additionally, blue oaks (Quercus
douglasii) removed during mining will be replaced on a two‐for‐one basis on 15‐foot centers for a total
of 150 trees.
Plant Richness Plant Density Percent Cover
3 species present n/a 80% where soil is placed
1 tree specie 1.5 trees/acre average n/a
Note: Natural regeneration of native grasses and trees counts towards density of plants on site.
To ensure that trees are properly planted, revegetation shall be overseen by either a Registered
Professional Forester, Certified Biologist or similarly qualified individual approved by the Lead Agency. Prior
to planting, the qualified professional will prepare and submit a planting plan to the Lead Agency detailing
the techniques and methodology to be employed.
Test Plots
A test plot will be established at the east end of the mine site. The plot will be at least 30’ x 30’ and will
be fenced to prevent disturbance. The test plot site will be constructed as follows:
1. The plot site will be treated with a herbicide to eliminate existing surface growth.
2. Three inches of crusher fines will be placed, followed by three inches of salvaged topsoil.
3. Seed will be broadcast per the prescribed planting mixture.
4. Ten acorns gathered from local trees will be planted at regular intervals.
If success criteria are met after two years of implementation of the test plot without intervention,
results of the replanting scheme will be implemented at the cessation of mining. However, if the test
plot does not meet success criteria, the operator will propose to Butte County alternatives for meeting
the revegetation goals, including alternative plant species and the possible importation of additional
topsoil or subsoil material. Use of the test plot will be ended once the success of the plantings is
confirmed.
Success Monitoring
Monitoring for revegetation success is for two consecutive years. Should the success of revegetation
not seem attainable after two years of monitoring, the operator has the option of submitting an
alternative vegetative planting program to the Butte County Planning Department. The alternative
vegetative planting program will give the results of vegetation monitoring, identify where the success
criteria has and has not been achieved, and present an alternate vegetation planting prescription and
performance standard. The performance standard will address species richness, density, and cover as
applicable to each revegetation plan.
Invasive Species Control
Noxious weeds will be managed: (1) when they threaten the success of the proposed revegetation; (2)
to prevent spreading to nearby areas; and (3) to eliminate fire hazard. The specific criteria for
determining when weed abatement will be implemented are as follows:
1. No more than 5% of the reclamation area shall be covered in weed species.
2. An area of more than 55 square feet has weed coverage of greater than 50%.
To achieve these goals the operator agrees to implement the following measures to control the growth
of noxious weeds:
5
1. Organic erosion control materials shall be certified weed free, whenever possible.
2. Seed used for reclamation and revegetation shall be at least 98.5% weed free.
3. Piles of salvaged topsoil or overburden will be reseeded as soon as possible after pile creation
to help prevent establishment of weed species.
9. Structure/Equipment Removal
All machinery, equipment, vehicles trash and debris will be removed from the site. All aggregate
stockpiles and oversized rock will either be transported off‐site or used as needed for final erosion
control.
Figure 1 – Site Location Map
6
Figure 2 – Mining Plan
7
Figure 3 – Typical Cross Sections
8
Figure 4 – Reclamation and Revegetation Plan
9
3.0 OBSERVATIONS
The mine site was not active during inspection. However, the site has been active during the past year
with blasting, extraction, mineral processing, stockpiling and exporting taking place. Sufficient finished
products are stockpiled on the western and eastern sides of the quarry floor. Additional stockpiles of
finished materials are stockpiled on the eastern portion of the mining area, and directly east of the
topsoil stockpile. Larger boulders, as they are encountered, are stockpiled along the southern quarry
wall, where they will be used to form the 10‐feet wide debris bench to be created during operations and
reclamation.
Equipment/Structures
A front‐end loader, three conveyors, and large steel water storage drum were situated within the
processing area of the pit. Equipment parts and a portable toilet facility are located along the haul road,
near the entrance to the quarry area. Several items in the bone yard area includes wood debris and
non‐operational parts. However, the majority of equipment parts appear to be functional. The
operator indicated that scraps and non‐functional parts would be removed from the site.
Erosion Control
Minimal erosion control measures were implemented at the site during inspection. Existing erosion
control consisted largely of placement of straw waddles around the topsoil stockpile and along portions
of the haul road, through the mine site. These waddles appear to have been left over from previous
years. The operator indicated that erosion control measures will be installed in the near term to
implement storm water pollution prevention plan. Having no significant rains affecting the area
recently, no evidence of significant erosion was observed.
The 2013 inspection report noted the placement of a finished product stockpile along the western edge
of the mine site, and that the stockpile appeared to have encroached closer to an adjacent ephemeral
drainage channel. Corrective action for the operator to implement erosion control measures between
the stockpile and drainage channel was recommended to prevent the potential discharge of sediment to
area waterways. During the 2014 inspection, the operator explained that initial efforts were made to
pull the stockpile away from the drainage channel and to form a berm between the stockpile and
drainage. However, subsequent stockpiling of the finished products returned the stockpile to the
previous location noted during the 2013 inspection. The operator indicated that finished stockpile will
be again pulled back, and that straw waddles and silt fencing will be placed along the outer edge, until
such time as the stockpile is relocated.
Pond
The sediment basin proposed in the mining plan has not been constructed. The operator indicated that
prior to winter the entrance to the quarry is bermed. This allows storm water run‐off from the mine site
to be completely contained within the quarry floor, while also allowing for access to the material
stockpiles for exporting during winter. Due to the porous nature of the ground, storm water percolates
readily into the ground. Currently, a stockpile of processed aggregate is located in the location of the
proposed sediment basin. However, current operations have not precluded the future construction of
the sediment basin, or the stock pond upon completion of mining activities.
Slope stability
No evidence of slope stability issues was identified at the mine site. Quarry faces and stockpiled
materials appear to be stable throughout the site.
Topsoil
10
The topsoil stockpile is located in the designated area of the mine site. The stockpile has some minor
vegetative growth; however, the minor growth alone does appears not capable of preventing erosion.
Nevertheless, no erosion of the stockpile is noted primarily due to the erosion control measures
implemented at the site, and because stockpile side slopes are stable with 2:1 slopes. Appropriate
signage is located on the topsoil stockpile clearly identifying the stockpile as topsoil.
Test Plot
The test plot procedures identified in the reclamation plan has not been implemented at this time.
Invasive Species Control
No significant populations of noxious weeds have been identified on the mine site. There appears to be
some noxious weeds growing on the topsoil stockpile. However, the populations do not currently
exceed the noxious weed thresholds established in the reclamation plan.
4.0 RECLAMATION AREA
No reclamation of the site has begun.
5.0 FINANCIAL ASSURANCE
No Financial Assurance Cost Estimate was submitted to the County for the 2014 mining season. The
previous estimate for the mine was approved on April 2013. The approved estimate provided third‐
party reclamation costs for 5 acres of existing mine disturbances. According to the estimate, the total
reclamation liability at the site is $38,101.00.
During the inspection, the operator was notified that an updated estimate will need to be prepared for
the mine to reflect current equipment and wage rates, as well as to reflect to total mine disturbance of
±8.3 acres.
The County currently has a surety bond (No. 929462860) posted for the financial assurance. The
financial assurance amount is $38,101, which covers the current reclamation estimate for the mine site.
6.0 VIOLATIONS / CORRECTIVE MEASURES
1. (Violation) – Immediately submit an updated Financial Assurance Cost Estimate, pursuant to
Butte County Code Section 13‐109(e). The financial assurance cost estimate shall account for
the cost of reclamation of existing lands disturbed by and accessory to surface mining
operations in accordance with the approved reclamation plan, and shall also account for
inflation and anticipated activities during the upcoming year.
2. (Corrective Measure) – Implement erosion control measures around the material stockpile
located on the western boundary of the quarry area to prevent further encroachment of the
stockpile into the adjacent ephemeral drainage channel and to reduce the potential for the
discharge of sediment into area waterways.
State of California
DEPARTMENT OF CONSERVATION
OFFICE OF MINE RECLAMATION
MRRC-1 (4/97) Page 1 of 5 (Rev. 07/13)
SURFACE MINING INSPECTION REPORT
(See reverse side of each form page for completion instructions)
I. Mine Name (As Shown on Approved Reclamation Plan) Inspection Date: CA MINE ID#
91-
II. Mine Operator Telephone ( )
Onsite Contact Person Telephone
( )
Mailing Address
City State ZIP Code
E-mail Address (optional)
III. Designated Agent Telephone
( )
Mailing Address
City State ZIP Code
E-mail Address (optional)
IV. SMARA Lead Agency Name (City, County, BCDC, or SMGB)
Inspector Telephone
( )
Title Organization
Mailing Address
City State ZIP Code
E-mail Address (optional)
V. Does the operation have: P NR No Yes
A Permit to Mine Permit # - Start and Expiration Dates
Vested Right to Mine Year of Lead Agency determination
A Reclamation Plan RP# Date Approved
Reclamation Plan Amendment RP Amendment # (as applies) Date Approved or Status of Amendment
Has the Operator filed a Mining Operation Annual Report (Form MRRC-2) this Year?
Check One: Yes No Year of Most Recent Filed
Annual Report:
VI. Is this Operation on Federal Land? Check One: If "Yes,” Provide One or Both of the Federal Mine Land Identification Numbers Below: Yes No
California Mining Claim Number (CAMC#): Latitude/Longitude at Mine Entrance (Decimal Degrees):
U.S. Forest Service or BLM Identification Number (Plan of Operations #) : Status of Plan of Operations (Current/Expired/In Process):
DISTRIBUTION: Lead Agency sends copies of Inspection notice & completed MRRC-1 to operator, operator’s designated agent, BLM or USFS (if required) & retains original.
INSTRUCTIONS FOR COMPLETING SURFACE MINING INSPECTION REPORT
Form MRRC-1 (4/97) Page 1 (Rev. 07/13)
This report is intended to comply with the requirements of California’s Surface Mining and Reclamation Act (SMARA – Public Resources Code Sections §§
2710 et seq., and the associated California Code of Regulations found in Title 14, division 2, beginning at § 3500, hereinafter respectively “PRC” or “CCR”) and
specifically PRC § 2774(b) and CCR § 3504.5 for operations located on private land and/or partly or solely on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and U.S.
Forest Service (USFS) lands (Title 43, parts 3500, 3600, and 3800 of the Code of Federal Regulations). A Memorandum of Understanding between the U.S.
Department of Interior, BLM; U.S. Department of Agriculture, USFS; the State of California, Department of Conservation; and the State Mining and Geology
Board (SMGB), discusses implementation of SMARA on Federal lands in California that are under the jurisdiction of the BLM and/or the USFS.
As required by PRC § 2774(b) and CCR § 3504.5(g), Lead Agencies shall file an Inspection Notice that includes a statement regarding compliance with
SMARA, a copy of this Surface Mining Inspection Report (MRRC-1) and any other supporting documentation with the Department within 30 days of completion
of the inspection. The Lead Agency shall also forward a copy of the Inspection Notice, MRRC-1, and any supporting documentation to the operator.
BLOCK I: Enter the name of the Mining Operation, the date of the inspection, and the California Mine ID number.
BLOCK II: Enter the name of the Mine Operator, mailing address, phone number, name, and email address (optional) of the person to serve as the
onsite contact.
BLOCK III: Enter the name, mailing address, phone number, and email (optional) of the Designated Agent who, under PRC § 2772(c)(1) and
2207(a)(1), will serve as a contact for any follow-up correspondence or discussions regarding the inspection or noted violations.
BLOCK IV: For "Lead Agency," enter the name of the certified SMARA Lead Agency that is conducting this inspection. Acceptable entries include the
name of the city, county, Bay Conservation and Development Commission (BCDC), or State Mining and Geology Board (SMGB). For
"Organization," enter the name of the agency, firm or other organization that employs the inspector.
BLOCK V:
Check the appropriate boxes.
P
NR, No, Yes
Pending (on appeal or awaiting approval by Lead Agency)
Not required for this operation at the time this inspection was completed
No
Yes, supply information
Note: Where appropriate, to aid in determining when the lead agency recognized that the operation has vested mining rights, inspectors
are advised to review older agency correspondence, minutes of lead agency hearings, including agendas and staff reports associated
with approvals of any kind related to the mining operation.
BLOCK VI: Indicate if the operation is on federal Land; if operation is on federal land, include a California Mining Claim Number and/or a BLM/USFS
Identification Number and Plan of Operations Number, if applicable. Give the status of the BLM/USFS Plan of Operations, as indicated.
Give the latitude and longitude at the mine entrance in decimal degrees.
___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
DISTRIBUTION INSTRUCTIONS:
One copy of the inspection notice and this completed Inspection Report (all pages) shall be given to the Mine Operator and the
operator’s designated agent by the lead agency (PRC Section 7374(b).
The Lead Agency must retain the original copy of this Inspection Report and submit one copy of this Inspection Report, along
with an original inspection report notice (PRC Subsection 2774(b)), within 30-days of the completion of the inspection, to:
Department of Conservation Office of Mine Reclamation 801 K St MS 09-06 Sacramento, CA 95814-3529
If any part of the operation inspected is on BLM or USFS land, one copy of this Inspection Report should be forwarded to the
appropriate BLM or USFS office.
State of California
DEPARTMENT OF CONSERVATION
OFFICE OF MINE RECLAMATION
MRRC-1 (4/97) Page 2 of 5 (Rev. 07/13)
SURFACE MINING INSPECTION REPORT
VII. Financial Assurance Inspection Date: CA MINE ID#:
91-
Type of Financial
Assurance Mechanism(s) Financial Assurance Mechanism Number(s) Amount of Mechanism Date of Expiration Date of Lead Agency
Approval of
Mechanism
Total Amount of Mechanism(s)
Financial Assurance Mechanism Pending Review by Lead Agency? If yes, provide date submitted/explanation and amount of pending mechanism:
Has there been a change of operator
since last inspection? If yes provide the date
of notice.
Yes No
Date of Change:
If yes, has the new operator posted a Financial Assurance Mechanism?
Yes No
If not, describe status of new operators Financial Assurance Mechanism:
Does new operator’s
Notice of Change include
a statement of responsibility
for reclamation?
Yes No
Posted a Financial Assurance Mechanism?
Yes No
If No, Has The New Operator Been Advised Of Financial Assurance Obligations?
Yes No
Date and Amount of Most Recent Approved
Financial Assurance Cost Estimate:
Date: Amount:
Financial Assurance Cost Estimate
Pending Review with Lead Agency?
Date Submitted/Explanation/Amount of pending estimate:
Financial Assurance Cost Estimate
Appealed by Operator? Date Submitted to State Mining and Geology Board or Lead Agency for Appeal/Explanation:
Other?
DISTRIBUTION: Lead Agency sends copies of Inspection notice & completed MRRC-1 to operator, operator’s designated agent, BLM or USFS (if required) & retains original.
INSTRUCTIONS FOR COMPLETING SURFACE MINING INSPECTION REPORT
Form MRRC-1 (4/97) Page 2 (Rev. 07/13)
BLOCK VII: Type of Financial Assurance Mechanism(s): Fill in the type of mechanism(s) that are on file. PRC § 3803 and SMGB Financial
Assurance Guideline number 10 describe Surety Bonds, Trust Funds, or Irrevocable Letters of Credit as acceptable financial assurance
mechanisms for non-governmental entity operators. For surface mining operations owned and operated by state and local government
entities, Surety Bonds, Trust Funds, Irrevocable Letters of Credit, Pledges of Revenue, and Budget Set Aside are acceptable financial
assurance mechanisms.
State the Financial Assurance Mechanism(s) document number(s). State the dollar amount of each Financial Assurance Mechanism(s)
currently on file. State the date of expiration of the Financial Assurance Mechanism(s) currently on file. State the date of approval for the
most recent lead agency approved Financial Assurance Mechanism(s) on file. State the total dollar amount of mechanisms held for
reclamation.
Indicate if any Financial Assurance Mechanisms are pending review by the lead agency and the date and amount of submittal to the lead
agency.
Indicate if there has been a change of operator of record since the last inspection and, if so, note the date the change occurred and
whether the new operator has signed any document acknowledging reclamation responsibility under the approved reclamation plan and
if the new operator has posted a Financial Assurance Mechanism. If a replacement Financial Assurance Mechanism has not been
posted, indicate the status of the new operator’s replacement Financial Assurance Mechanism. Per PRC § 2773.1(c) and Guideline
number 19 of the SMGB’s Financial Assurance Guidelines, when operatorship is transferred, “the original financial assurance must
remain in effect until the lead agency has approved, following department review, the replacement assurances provided by the
successor operator.”
The Financial Assurance amount must be adjusted and approved annually to account for new lands disturbed by surface mining
operations and lands to be disturbed in coming year, inflation, and reclamation of lands accomplished in accordance with the approved
Reclamation Plan (PRC § 2773.1(a)(3) and SMGB Financial Assurance Guideline #16). In order to determine what adjustments, if any,
are appropriate to the Financial Assurance Mechanism amount, each mine operator must submit annually a revision of the written
Financial Assurance Cost Estimate to the Lead Agency (PRC § 3804(c)). Provide the date of the operator’s most recent revision of the
Financial Assurance Cost Estimate to the Lead Agency and where appropriate, provide a status of the pending Financial Assurance Cost
Estimate. Provide the date and amount of the most recently approved Financial Assurance Cost Estimate.
Also indicate if the Financial Assurance Cost Estimate is under appeal to the lead agency or whether it has been appealed to State Mining
and Geology Board as described in PRC § 2770(e).
Use the Financial Assurance “Other” and “Explanation” blocks to provide any other pertinent information regarding the status of
Financial Assurance(s). If the operation does not have a sufficient Financial Assurance Cost Estimate and/or Financial Assurance
Mechanism, explain in detail.
State of California
DEPARTMENT OF CONSERVATION
OFFICE OF MINE RECLAMATION
MRRC-1 (4/97) Page 3 of 5 (Rev. 07/13)
SURFACE MINING INSPECTION REPORT
VIII. Non-SMARA facility operations conditions solely of local concern (e.g. hours of operation) do
not need to be noted here. See Instructions for Block VIII on reverse side of page.
[Use separate sheet(s) where necessary. Refer to item numbers below]
CA MINE ID #
91-
Potential Reclamation Plan
Requirements:
List Reclamation Plan Requirements
(Recommended to be filled out prior to field inspection)
Note Site Conditions and Compliance Issues
(Note additional comments on Page 5 as necessary)
VN?
1) General Information
a) Permitted Mineral Product(s)
b) Approved Production Amount
(Annual/Gross)
c) End Date of Operations Per RP
d) Permit end date
e) End Use
2) Boundaries
a) Property Boundary
b) Permit Boundary
c) Rec. Plan Boundary (RPB)
d) Setbacks
3) Slopes – Grading
a) Fill Slopes – Note Condition of:
i) Slopes – Working (max/current)
ii) Slopes – Reclaimed
iii) Compaction
b) Cut Slopes – Note Condition of:
i) Slopes – Working (max./current)
ii) Slopes – Reclaimed
4) Erosion Control
a) BMPs
b) Grading
c) Vegetation
5) Ponds
a) Design – Function
b) Capacity (area/depth/volume)
c) Maintenance
6) Stream & Wetland Protection
a) Buffers (distance to channel)
b) Berms (distance/length/height)
c) Best Management Practices
d) Drainage
e) Grading & Slopes
f) Stockpiles
g) Stream Diversions
7) Sensitive Wildlife & Plant Protection
a) List Species
b) Protection Measures
DISTRIBUTION: Lead Agency sends copies of Inspection notice & completed MRRC-1 to operator, operator’s designated agent, BLM or USFS (if required) & retains original.
INSTRUCTIONS FOR COMPLETING SURFACE MINING INSPECTION REPORT
Form MRRC-1 (4/97) Page 3 and 4 (Rev. 07/13)
BLOCK VIII: INSTRUCTIONS FOR EACH DATA COLUMN:
Potential Reclamation Plan Requirements (Column 1): Under CCR § 3504.5(f), “Inspections may include, but shall not
be limited to the following: the operation’s horizontal and vertical dimensions, volumes of materials stored on the site; slope
angles of stock piles, waste piles and quarry walls; potential geological hazards; equipment and other facilities; samples of
materials; photographic or other electronic images of the operation; any measurements or observations deemed necessary
by the inspector or the lead agency to ensure the operation is in compliance with Public Resources Code Chapter 9.”
Column 1 provides a list of items that may be included in the approved reclamation plan, either expressly or by reference as
described in PRC § 2772(d), which may include conditions of approval, other permit requirements and supplementary
documents, including environmental documents, prepared for the project pursuant to Division 13 (commencing with Section
21000).
It is not expected that all reclamation plans will include each item of Section VIII, or be limited to the items listed. Items in
Column 1 that are not operative requirements in the reclamation plan may not need to be addressed by the inspection.
Operative reclamation plan requirements not listed in Items 1 through 12 may be listed in Item 13, under “Other
Reclamation Plan Requirements.”
Reclamation Plan Requirements (Column 2): Prior to field inspection, it is recommended that the inspector review the
approved reclamation plan and any amendments, as well as any other documents included by reference, including
conditions of approval, other permit requirements and supplementary documents, such as environmental documents
prepared for the project pursuant to Division 13 (commencing with Section 21000) that specifically relate to reclamation of
the mine site. The most recently approved Financial Assurance Cost Estimate and any pending or ongoing enforcement
actions should also be reviewed. Conditions of approval that relate to facility operations solely of local concern, such as
hours of operation, noise, and dust control are not subject to the inspection.
Column 2 is intended to provide the inspector a place to match any items noted in Column 1 with those items included in the
approved reclamation plan either expressly or by reference as described in PRC § 2772(d), which may include conditions of
approval, other permit requirements and supplementary documents, including environmental documents prepared for the
project pursuant to Division 13 (commencing with § 21000). Also note any Interim Management Plan (IMP) requirements
where the mine is subject to an IMP pursuant to PRC § 2770(h).
Indicate the source document for the reclamation plan requirements at the end of the entry in parenthesis; i.e. (COA) (POO)
(EIR) (WDR) (SWPPP), etc. Conditions of approval that relate to facility operations solely of local concern, such as hours
of operation, noise, and dust control should not be included in Column 2. If items listed in Column 1 of Section VIII of the
form are not included in the reclamation plan or other documents included by reference, write not applicable or “NA” in
Column 2.
Specific reclamation requirements may not apply to an operation at the time of inspection, but they are important to be
aware of to ensure current activity at the site will not prohibit reclamation in accordance with the approved reclamation plan.
A copy of the Surface Mining and Reclamation Act of 1975 and 1993 SMGB regulations may be obtained at
http://www.conservation.ca.gov/omr/lawsandregulations/Pages/SMARA.aspx.
Site Conditions and Compliance Issues (Column 3): Describe current site conditions and compliance issues noted for
both operating and reclaimed surfaces that pertain to the reclaimed condition of the mining site. Block IX is provided for
additional space to describe site conditions and/or compliance issues. Attach additional sheets as necessary.
Evaluations of slope stability and engineered compaction should be prepared by qualified professionals only. PRC §
2774(b)) states “The lead agency may cause an inspection to be conducted by a state licensed geologist, state licensed
civil engineer, state licensed landscape architect, or state licensed forester, who is experienced in land reclamation and
who has not been employed by a surface mining operation within the jurisdiction of the lead agency in any capacity during
the previous 12 months.”
VN? (Column 4): Use this box to indicate if violations were noted for any of the specific items under the corresponding item
group heading (e.g., Boundaries, Slopes-Grading, etc.) during field inspection of the site. Enter number of violations in the
box.
State of California
DEPARTMENT OF CONSERVATION
OFFICE OF MINE RECLAMATION
MRRC-1 (4/97) Page 4 of 5 (Rev. 07/13)
SURFACE MINING INSPECTION REPORT
VIII. Non-SMARA facility operations conditions solely of local concern (e.g. hours of operation) do not need to be noted here. See Instructions for Block VIII on reverse side of page.
[Use separate sheet(s) where necessary. Refer to item numbers below]
CA MINE ID #
91-
Potential Reclamation Plan
Requirements:
List Reclamation Plan Requirements
(Recommended to be filled out prior to field inspection)
Note Site Conditions and Compliance Issues
(Note additional comments on Page 5 as necessary)
VN?
8) Soil/Overburden Stockpile
Management
a) Topsoil
i) Location
ii) Slope Stability
iii) BMPs
b) Overburden
i) Location
ii) Slope Stability
iii) BMPs
c) Topsoil Application
i) Amendments
ii) Depth
iii) Moisture
iv) Application Methods
9) Revegetation
a) Test Plots
b) Species Mix
c) Density
d) Percent Cover
e) Species Richness
f) Protection
g) Success Monitoring
h) Invasive Species Control
10) Structures
11) Equipment
12) Closure of Adits
13) Other Reclamation Plan
Requirements
DISTRIBUTION: Lead Agency sends copies of Inspection notice & completed MRRC-1 to operator, operator’s designated agent, BLM or USFS (if required) & retains original.
INSTRUCTIONS FOR COMPLETING SURFACE MINING INSPECTION REPORT
Form MRRC-1 (4/97) Page 5 (Rev. 05/13)
BLOCK IX Inspectors may use the large open block for comments to describe violations, corresponding corrective actions, or
preventative measure(s) suggested by the inspector to address noted violations or avoid potential violations, and to explain
any limitations on the inspection conducted. The inspector can also use this space to describe the status of any pending or
current enforcement actions. Separate violations that are the subject of existing enforcement actions from violations
observed during the current inspection.
Enter California Mine ID Number and Date of Inspection.
Weather Codes: CR = Clear; CL = Cloudy; RN = Rain; SN = Snow; WD = Windy
For "Duration of Inspection," indicate the start and end times of the inspection (do not include travel time).
SMARA Status Codes (based on annual report and reported production under CCR § 3695, indicate the appropriate status
code)
I = Idle (Per § 2727.1) NP = Newly Permitted (must be no mining/disturbance)
AB = Abandoned (Per § 2770(h)(6)) NOP-NC = Not in operation, reclamation not completed
NOP-C = Not in operation, reclamation completed
If idle, indicate either the date operation became idle as defined by PRC Section 2727.1, the date an IMP was approved, or the
status of any pending IMP.
Status of Reclamation Codes:
RN = Reclamation not begun P = Post reclamation monitoring
R = Reclamation in progress RC = Reclamation complete
Enter approximate acreage under reclamation (the number of acres actively being reclaimed in accordance with the
approved reclamation plan).
Enter approximate acreage determined to be reclaimed in accordance with the approved reclamation plan by Lead Agency.
Enter approximate total disturbed acreage. This includes all acreage disturbed by the surface mining operation, as defined
by PRC § 2729: “’Mined Lands’ includes the surface, subsurface, and ground water of an area in which surface mining
operations will be, are being, or have been conducted, including private ways and roads appurtenant to any such area, land
excavations, workings, mining waste, and areas in which structures, facilities, equipment, machines, tools or other materials or
property which result from, or are used in, surface mining operations are located.” This should include acreage under
reclamation that has not been determined to be reclaimed in accordance with the approved reclamation plan by the Lead
Agency.
Enter the total number of acres within or adjacent to the disturbance area of the operation disturbed pre-SMARA (disturbance
before January 1, 1976, that has not had mining related disturbance after January 1, 1976).
Enter the disturbed acreage identified in the most recent Financial Assurance Cost Estimate (i.e., the disturbed acreage that
was used to calculate the most recent Financial Assurance Cost Estimate.
Enter the date of the previous lead agency inspection and number of violations noted during that inspection.
Attendees: Provide the names and affiliations of parties in attendance at the inspection.
BLOCK X: Enter the number of violations noted during the inspection. Sign and date the Inspection Report. If the inspector is a
consultant to the lead agency, include the inspector’s certification (PE, PG, CEG, etc.) and license number, if applicable.
The lead agency may cause an inspection to be performed by contracting with private consultants, specifically: state
licensed geologist, state licensed civil engineer, state licensed landscape architect, or state licensed forester per § 2774(b).
Se
p
t
e
m
b
e
r
2
4
,
2
0
1
4
I
n
s
p
e
c
t
i
o
n
–
L
i
t
t
l
e
Ch
i
c
o
C
r
e
e
k
Q
u
a
r
r
y
(
9
1
-
0
4
-
0
0
3
0
)
Ph
o
t
o
1
–
V
i
e
w
s
o
u
t
h
e
a
s
t
i
n
t
o
p
i
t
a
n
d
p
r
o
c
e
s
s
i
n
g
a
r
e
a
.
P
h
o
t
o
2
–
V
i
e
w
o
f
p
i
t
a
n
d
p
r
o
c
e
s
s
i
n
g
a
r
e
a
f
r
o
m
e
a
s
t
e
r
n
s
i
d
e
o
f
m
i
n
e area.
Ph
o
t
o
3
–
P
a
r
t
s
s
t
o
r
a
g
e
a
r
e
a
l
o
c
a
t
e
d
a
l
o
n
g
h
a
u
l
r
o
a
d
,
b
e
f
o
r
e
m
i
n
e
s
i
t
e
.
P
h
o
t
o
4
–
V
i
e
w
o
f
n
o
r
t
h
-
f
a
c
i
n
g
q
u
a
r
r
y
w
a
l
l
(
b
a
c
k
g
r
o
u
n
d
)
a
n
d
p
r
o
c
e
s
s
i
n
g
a
r
e
a
(
f
o
r
e
g
r
o
u
n
d
)
.
Se
p
t
e
m
b
e
r
2
4
,
2
0
1
4
I
n
s
p
e
c
t
i
o
n
–
L
i
t
t
l
e
Ch
i
c
o
C
r
e
e
k
Q
u
a
r
r
y
(
9
1
-
0
4
-
0
0
3
0
)
Ph
o
t
o
5
–
T
o
p
s
o
i
l
s
t
o
c
k
p
i
l
e
a
r
e
a
(
b
a
c
k
g
r
o
u
n
d
,
r
i
g
h
t
s
i
d
e
)
.
M
a
t
e
r
i
a
l
s
s
t
o
c
k
p
i
l
e
(
f
o
r
e
g
r
o
u
n
d
,
r
i
g
h
t
s
i
d
e
)
P
h
o
t
o
6
–
M
a
t
e
r
i
a
l
s
t
o
ck
p
i
l
e
o
n
e
a
s
t
e
r
n
p
o
r
t
i
o
n
o
f
m
i
n
e
s
i
t
e
.
Ph
o
t
o
s
7
&
8
–
W
e
s
t
e
r
n
p
e
r
i
m
e
t
e
r
o
f
m
i
n
e
s
i
t
e
.
M
a
t
e
r
i
a
l
s
t
o
c
k
p
i
l
e
s
i
t
u
a
t
e
d
o
n
t
h
e
e
d
g
e
o
f
e
p
h
e
m
e
r
a
l
d
r
a
i
n
a
g
e
c
h
a
n
n
e
l
i
n
2
0
1
4
(
Ph
o
t
o
7
)
a
n
d
i
n
2
0
1
3
(
P
h
o
t
o
8
)
.
Ma
t
e
r
i
a
l
s
t
o
c
k
p
i
l
e
s
i
t
u
a
t
e
d
o
n
t
h
e
e
d
g
e
o
f
e
p
h
e
m
e
r
a
l
dr
a
i
n
a
g
e
c
h
a
n
n
e
l
s
h
o
w
s
l
i
t
t
l
e
c
h
a
n
g
e
b
e
t
w
e
e
n
i
n
s
p
e
c
t
i
o
n
s
.