10.a)2) 2016 ZAVORAL APPLICATION FOR ANNUAL OPERATORS PERMITJanuary 2016
117
TILLER
CORPORAT IONO
2016 APPLICATION FOR THE
ANNUAL OPERATORS PERMIT
Zavoral Mine
Scandia, MN
Consulting Civil Engineers
Sunde Engineering, PLLC.
10830 Nesbitt Avenue South • Bloomington, Minnesota 55437-3100
Phone: (952) 881-3344 • Fax: (952) 881-1913 • E-Mail: info(& sundecivil. com
APPLICATION FOR ANNUAL OPERATORS PERMIT
TILLER CORPORATION
ZAVORAL MINING AND RECLAMATION PROJECT
CITY OF SCANDIA
WASHINGTON COUNTY, MINNESOTA
INTRODUCTION
The following Annual Operators Permit (AOP) application is submitted on behalf of Tiller
Corporation (Tiller) in compliance with the City of Scandia's Ordinance No. 103 and Chapter
4 of the Development Code: Mining and Related Activities Regulations, Section 6, adopted
by the City of Scandia on August 28, 2007.
Tiller operates the Zavoral Mining and Reclamation Project within the City of Scandia. The
City of Scandia adopted a resolution on February 19, 2013 issuing a Conditional Use Permit
(CUP) for the Site. Since the CUP was issued, active mining commenced at the Site during
Fall 2013.
In 2015 major Site activities occurred in January, February, March and again in September,
October, November and December. Activities included mining and reclamation of the Site.
Activities that occurred outside of this timeframe included maintenance on the reclamation
area and transplanting vegetation into the Transition Area.
II. ANNUAL REPORT
A. Operating Conditions
The site operates in accordance with operating conditions regulated by Section 7 of the
Scandia Ordinance 103.
Setbacks: No mining, stockpiling or land disturbance activities, with the exception
of screening activities, are proposed to take place within the setback areas.
Minimum setback areas are maintained as follows:
a) 50 feet from an adjoining property line.
b) 200 feet from any occupied structures not owned by the operator or owner.
c) 100 feet from any contiguous property subdivided into residential lots of 5 acres
or less.
d) 100 feet from any road right-of-way.
2. Fencing: A portion of the Site along State Highway 95 is fenced with a four foot
high chain link fence. The fence is currently used in conjunction with an in place
screening berm to control access screening from State Highway 95. There is a
locking metal gate at the entrance to the Site.
3. Hours of operation: Mining activities as defined in the City's ordinance are
conducted from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Monday through Thursday and between
7:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. on Friday, excluding Federal holidays, during daylight hours,
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or one hour before sunrise and one hour after sunset during seasons when
daylight is not available between 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m., unless the City
authorizes other hours or days for mining activities.
4. Screening: Screening berms, wooded buffer areas, a state highway and
agricultural fields separate the mining activity from surrounding properties. Mining
operations are conducted in recessed portions of the site to minimize visibility. The
construction of the proposed screening berm in the Site Plan of the CUP
Application was completed in December, 2013. The berm was constructed of
topsoil and overburden materials encountered during site preparation activities and
Phase 1 Mining. The berm exceeds the six foot minimum height requirement for
screening berms.
In early Fall 2015, a small portion of the screening berm along the west portion of
the mine was regraded in order to recover a portion of the aggregate deposit. Once
the regrading was complete, the disturbed portion of the berm was seeded and
mulched to stabilize the slopes.
5. Dust control: An approved Dust Control Plan revised April 18, 2013 has been
prepared for the Site and is on file with the City.
A portion of the main haul road has been paved as part of the construction of the
realignment of the site entrance and the right turn lane. Asphalt millings have been
applied to the main haul road from the edge of the asphalt to the base of the main
haul road.
A water truck was used to water unpaved portions of the Site to control dust.
During periods of increased trucking activity, a non -chloride organic polymer was
applied to provide additional dust control. Once temperatures dropped below 35
degrees Fahrenheit, paved and milled portions of the haul road are not able to be
washed and unpaved internal haul roads cannot be watered. Instead, precipitation
in the form of snow traps particles and/or binds particles together minimizing the
potential for dust.
The Site entrance is swept on a regular basis. Haul trucks are covered with tarps
and a 10 mph speed limit is posted within the Site. These practices will continue in
2016.
6. Noise: All activities are conducted so as to be in accordance with all Federal, State
and City noise standards. An on -site circular traffic pattern is implemented for haul
trucks to minimize the need to back-up, which triggers a back-up alarm. Broadband
back-up alarms are installed on all Tiller -owned equipment.
7. Depth of excavation: Maximum mining depth will be to 840 feet above msl.
Reclamation grades will vary from 848-890 feet above msl. In the absence of GPS-
enabled operating equipment, a benchmark is established to monitor the elevation
of the mine floor. The benchmark allows the operators to continually monitor the
elevation of the mine floor with respect to the maximum depth of mining or 840 feet
above msl.
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2016 Annual Operating Permit
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8. Site clearance: Site clearing activities consist of preparing new areas for mining
and include removing topsoil and overburden materials from Phase 2 & 3 Mining
areas. Overburden is removed and either used directly for reclamation or is set
aside for future use in reclamation. Topsoil is set aside to be used in the final
grading during reclamation.
9. Appearance/condition: All equipment at the Site is maintained in a neat and orderly
condition. Any unnecessary equipment is removed from the site.
10. Sanitary Facilities: Portable sanitary facilities are provided in the operating areas
as required by the Mine Safety and Health Administration.
11. Waste Disposal: Waste generated from the operation is disposed of in a 4-cubic
yard covered waste bin and maintained in accordance with Federal, State and City
requirements.
12. Water Quality Monitoring: An approved Groundwater Quality Protection Plan
(GWPP) revised April 18, 2013 has been prepared for the Site and is on file with
the City.
In accordance with the GWPP, a background or baseline groundwater sample was
taken from the on -site monitoring well (MW-1) by Tiller's groundwater sampling
consultant on September 10, 2013 before the commencement of Site activity. A
water level reading was also taken and recorded at this time. The sample was
analyzed for Diesel Range Organics (DRO), Gasoline Range Organics (GRO) and
benzene. The analytical results of the baseline groundwater sample have been
submitted to the City
In addition to the baseline sampling event, the GWPP requires that a groundwater
sample be collected and analyzed for DRO on an annual basis from MW-1. A
groundwater sample was taken and a groundwater level recorded from MW-1 by
Tiller's groundwater sampling consultant on December 16, 2015. The sample was
analyzed for DRO. Gasoline was not stored at the Site in 2015, therefore Gasoline
Range Organics (GRO) was not required to be analyzed. Analytical results for the
2013, 2014 and 2015 sampling events are on file with the City and are summarized
in Attachment 1, Groundwater Sampling Results.
13. Fuel and Chemical Storage: On -site fuel storage consists of a portable 200-gallon
double walled above ground storage tank, which is used to fuel the operating
equipment. In accordance with MPCA rules, an AST Notification form was
submitted within 30 days of tank installation. Fueling occurs over a hard -surfaced
pad constructed out of compacted millings. The tank is located more than 500 feet
from any surface waters. The location of the tank is indicated on Site Plan 2015
Activity.
All fuel and chemicals stored on -site are stored in accordance with Federal and
State standards.
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2016 Annual Operating Permit
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14. Contingency Response Plan: The site operates under an Emergency Contingency
Response Plan that was provided to the City in conjunction with the CUP
application. There are no proposed changes to the Plan at this time.
Tiller accommodated local emergency response personnel at the Site in mid -
December 2013 to familiarize local responders with the Site layout and access.
15. Added Provisions: The operator will comply with other such reasonable
requirements that the City may find necessary to adopt for the protection of health,
safety and welfare and/or prevention of nuisance.
16. Processing: Processing is not conducted at this Site.
17. Recycling: Recycling is not conducted at this Site.
18. Trucking Operations: The Site has access to State Highways 95 and 97. The main
haul route from the Site is State Highway 97 westbound and then northbound on
County Road 91 (Lofton Avenue), which is a paved 9-ton road, to the Scandia
Mine. A northbound left turn lane from State Highway 95 into the Site was
constructed in 2013.
19. Asphalt Plants: Asphalt is not produced at this site.
B. Compliance with Conditions of the CUP
The Conditional Use Permit is granted only for the Project identified in the plans
and application submitted to the City on November 14, 2008, and updated on
October 9, 2012, and revised as required by these conditions.
As required by the following conditions, the GWPP, Dust Control Plan and
Reclamation Plan were revised April 18, 2013. The revised Plans are on file with
the City.
2. The applicant shall comply at all times with the City's ordinances and all
applicable rules and regulations of Federal, State, County and local agencies,
including the Carnelian -Marine -St. Croix Watershed District, and shall maintain
existing permits granted by those agencies for all operations at the site.
The Site is operated in accordance with the City's ordinances as well as the
applicable rules and regulations of Federal, State, County and local agencies. The
permits required to operate the Site have been obtained and are on file with the
City.
3. The maximum depth of mining shall be 840 feet above mean sea level (amsl).
Modeling completed for the EIS indicated that the separation between the
maximum depth of mining and existing ground water level is 25 feet or more. The
City or its consultant shall monitor ground water levels as specified in the AOP,
and if the separation between the maximum depth of mining and ground water
level is less than 25 feet, the consultant shall report this information to the City
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Council. The City shall inform the Minnesota DNR, Carnelian- Marine -St. Croix
Watershed District, and Washington County if the separation between the
maximum depth of mining and ground water level is less than 25 feet, the City
may require additional monitoring, may require that the applicant cease mining
operations, or take other appropriate actions based on potential negative impacts
to groundwater or groundwater- related resources. The City shall report ground
water levels on the site on a quarterly basis to the Minnesota Department of
Natural Resources.
In the absence of GPS-enabled operating equipment, a benchmark is established
to monitor the elevation of the mine floor. The benchmark allows the operators to
continually monitor the elevation of the mine floor with respect to the maximum
depth of mining or 840 feet above msl. The current maximum depth of mining is
approximately 843 feet above msl, and typically ranges between 850-855 feet
above msl.
The City has determined that the elevation of the mining activities should be
monitored by the City's consultant. Tiller has cooperated with the City's consultant
to conduct the required monitoring of the mining elevations to comply with this
condition.
4. No mining of silica sand for industrial purposes ("frac sand mining") shall be
permitted at this site.
There was no mining of silica sand at the Site for industrial purposes in 2015.
Mining into bedrock is not identified in the Project plans and is not occurring.
5. No dewatering shall be permitted.
There was no dewatering of the Site in 2015. Dewatering is not identified in the
Project plans and is not occurring.
6. Daily pumping from the Zavoral Site Well shall not exceed 10,000 gallons at a
maximum pumping rate of 1,200 gallons per minute. Annual pumping shall not
exceed 1 million gallons.
The production well was pumped in September, October and November 2015 for
dust control activities. A total of approximately 114,000 gallons were pumped for
dust control with 24,000 gallons withdrawn in September, 66,000 gallons
withdrawn in October and 24,000 gallons withdrawn in November. Daily pumping
did not exceed 10,000 gallons and the maximum pumping rate did not exceed
1,200 gallons per minute. Daily records of the pumping of the Zavoral Site Well are
maintained by Tiller and provided as Attachment 2, Zavoral Site Well Water Use.
7. To establish that Condition No. 6 above is being met, the applicant shall keep
records of when the Zavoral Site Well is pumped, and provide the records to the
City, WCD, Washington County Department of Public Health and Minnesota
Department of Natural Resources for groundwater monitoring activities. The
records shall document both the daily use and total annual pumped volume from
the Zavoral Site Well.
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Records of the pumping of the Zavoral Site Production Well are maintained by
Tiller and provided as Attachment 2, Zavoral Site Well Water Use. The records
have been submitted to the WCD, Washington County Department of Public Works
and the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources.
8. The applicant shall revise the Groundwater Quality Protection Plan (GWPP)
(October 2012) to address the corrections and issues identified in the Leggette,
Brashears, and Graham Inc. (LBG) letter to the City dated November 15, 2012.
The applicant shall revise the locations of the proposed borings and monitoring
wells as requested by LBG. All such revisions shall be submitted to and are
subject to the approval of the City and failure to obtain such approval shall be a
violation of this condition.
The approved Groundwater Quality Protection Plan was revised April 18, 2013 to
address the corrections and issues identified by LBG. The locations of the
proposed piezometers and monitoring well were revised per comments received by
LBG. The revised GWPP has been approved by and is on file with the City.
9. The applicant shall maintain the groundwater observation wells or piezometers
installed on the mine site at the current locations or as approved by the City. The
applicant shall coordinate the number and locations of the observation wells
and/or piezometers and frequency of monitoring in consultation with the City and
its consultants.
The required two piezometers (PZ-1, PZ-2) and monitoring well (MW-1) have been
installed. The purpose of the wells is to determine and monitor the elevation of the
groundwater and to measure groundwater parameters throughout the duration of
the Project.
The City has determined that monitoring will be conducted by the City's consultant.
Tiller has coordinated and cooperated with the City and/or its consultant to ensure
access to the Site as needed to comply with this condition.
Tiller will work with the City and its consultant in 2016 to coordinate sealing the well
and piezometers as necessary to accommodate reclamation grading work in
individual phases and the completion of the project.
10. The City's consulting hydrogeologist shall make scheduled site visits to
download groundwater monitoring data and collect manual measurements. The
hydrogeologist shall evaluate the data and report the results to the City at least
annually with the AOP application, or more frequently if the consultant identifies
issues or problems during the monitoring activity.
The City has determined that monitoring will be conducted by the City's consultant.
Tiller has cooperated with the City and/or its consultant to ensure access to the
Site as needed to comply with this condition. The condition requires that the City's
consulting hydrogeologist evaluate the data and report the results to the City.
11. The City shall review and evaluate the GWPP on an annual basis or more
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frequently if a significant change in the groundwater conditions occurs. The
applicant shall modify the GWPP as needed to address concerns identified by the
City.
Data collected to date does not indicate a significant change in groundwater
conditions. The City has not indicated to Tiller that they have identified any
concerns with the current version (April 18, 2013) of the GWPP.
12. If diesel fuel is stored at the site, the applicant shall sample and analyze
groundwater for diesel range organics. If gasoline is stored at the site, gasoline
range organics and benzene shall be added to the analyte list.
Diesel fuel is brought to the site as needed and stored in portable double walled
fuel tanks to fuel equipment during periods of mining and reclamation activity. The
portable tanks are removed when site activity is suspended for a period of time.
A portable 200-gallon, double -walled diesel fuel tank is located on -site as a fuel
source for the operating equipment. A groundwater sample was taken from the on -
site monitoring well (MW-1) by Tiller's groundwater sampling consultant on
December 16, 2015. The analytical results of the groundwater sample did not
detect the presence of Diesel Range Organics (DROs).
Gasoline was not stored at the Site in 2015 therefore Gasoline Range Organics
(GRO) and benzene were not required to be analyzed. DRO was not detected in
the groundwater sample. Groundwater quality monitoring results for the 2013, 2014
and 2015 sampling events are on file with the City and are summarized in
Attachment 1, Groundwater Sampling Results.
13. The applicant shall meet Federal, State and City requirements for storage of fuels
on the Site.
A portable 200-gallon, double -walled diesel fuel tank is located on -site as a fuel
source for the operating equipment. All fuels are stored in compliance with Federal,
State and City requirements.
14. Equipment fueling for the Project shall be conducted in a designated area over a
hard -surfaced fueling pad.
A hard -surfaced fueling pad has been constructed out of compacted millings.
Equipment is fueled over the hard -surfaced pad.
15. The applicant shall provide spill cleanup equipment on -site when other
equipment is present.
Tiller's Spill Prevention Policy is implemented at the Site. A spill kit is stored on -site
when the Site is active or there is equipment on -site.
16. The applicant shall obtain the required agency permits for stormwater
management prior to beginning any operations at the site, and provide to the
City copies of the permits approved by the CMSCWD and the Minnesota
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Pollution Control Agency.
The Site has been issued and is operated in accordance with the National
Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES)/State Disposal System (SDS)
General Permit MNG490000 for Nonmetallic Mining and Associated Activities and
the CMSCWD Stormwater Management and Erosion and Sediment Control
Permits. Copies of all of these permits have been provided to the City.
17. The applicant shall review, update, provide to the City, obtain the City's approval
and thereafter implement the Best Management Practices (BMP's) included in
the Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) (July, 24, 2012), Surface
Water Plan (October 2012), and CMSCWD permit to protect surface waters and
manage erosion and sedimentation.
The Site is operated in accordance with the National Pollutant Discharge
Elimination System (NPDES)/State Disposal System (SDS) General Permit
MNG490000 for Nonmetallic Mining and Associated Activities, and the associated
Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP), the Surface Water Plan and the
CMSCWD Stormwater Management and Erosion and Sediment Control Permit.
Prior to vegetation removal within the Site, a combination of silt fence and silt logs
were installed along all perimeter areas that demonstrated a potential for off -site
drainage. These BMPs are regularly inspected and maintained.
Phase 3 Mining commenced in 2015. The area that has been opened for mining in
the Phase 3 Mining area is internally drained. As mining progresses through Phase
3, topsoil and overburden will continue to be removed in a manner that ensures
positive drainage toward the interior of the Site. Subsequent mining after topsoil
and overburden removal further promotes on -site infiltration and minimizes the
potential for off -site discharges.
Inspections with the CMSCWD to verify compliance with the CMSCWD permit are
conducted twice per month and inspections to verify implementation of the SWPPP
and Surface Water Plan are conducted on an as -needed basis with the City's
consultant.
18. The applicant shall obtain the required Air Emissions Permit from the Minnesota
Pollution Control Agency prior to beginning any operations at the site, and
provide a copy of the approved permit to the City.
The Site operates in accordance with Air Emission General Permit (Permit number
05301018-001). A copy of the permit has been provided to the City.
19. The applicant shall obtain an Endangered Species Take Permit before removing
any Butternut (Juglans cinerea) trees identified on the site, if the Minnesota
Department of Natural Resources (DNR) reclassified Butternut trees from a
Special Concern to Endangered species.
The Butternut tree was listed from Special Concern to Endangered, effective
August 19, 2013. Some diseased Butternut trees were removed from the Site prior
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to this date. One healthy Butternut tree has been identified and is located outside
of the Project Limit, but within the Property.
The City has determined that the City's consultant will verify the location of the
healthy Butternut tree annually and monitor the Threatened and Endangered
Listing Status of the Butternut tree. Tiller has cooperated with the City and/or its
consultant to ensure access to the Site as needed to comply with this condition.
20. The applicant shall comply with the "Summary of Recommendations for
Avoiding and Minimizing Impacts to Blanding's Turtles Populations" included in
Appendix C of the Zavoral Mine and Reclamation Project EIS. Tiller Corporation
shall provide the City or its consultant with its Blanding's Turtle Standard
Operating Procedures guidelines for review and comment. The City or its
consultant will conduct annual site visits to verify compliance.
The Site is operated in accordance with the Blanding's Turtle Standard Operating
Procedures Plan dated September 2013. The Plan includes photos to help identify
the species and protocol on what to do if a Blanding's Turtle is spotted on -site. The
Plan is kept on -site while the Site is active and is provided to all contractors who
are working on -site.
No Blanding's Turtles were identified on -site in 2015.
The City has determined the City's consultant will conduct an annual site visit to
verify compliance. Tiller has cooperated with the City and/or its consultant to
ensure access to the Site as needed to comply with this condition.
21. The applicant shall inspect all trees for raptor nests prior to tree clearing. Trees
with active nests may not be cleared while the nest is actively used.
Critical Connections Ecological Consultants, Inc. conducted a raptor stick nest
survey prior to tree clearing on September 9, 2013. There were not any active
nests identified during the survey. The stick nest survey results are on file with the
City.
22. The applicant shall construct the proposed berm on the south end of the Site as
close to the mining and reclamation limits as possible to reduce off -site peak flow
rates.
The SWPPP was updated in 2014 to accommodate erosion and sediment control
practices that have been effective at the site in conducting topsoil and overburden
removal in a manner that ensures positive drainage toward the interior of the Site.
The City's consultant, Washington Conservation District, has inspected the site as
it pertains to this condition and has determined the site is in compliance.
23. The applicant shall minimize the amount of unnecessary equipment on the Site
and reduce soil tracking by off -site by vehicles.
The Site operates with a minimum amount of necessary equipment. Soil tracking
is reduced by routine sweeping, watering of haul roads and a paved Site entrance,
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in accordance with the site -specific SWPPP and the Zavoral Mine Dust Control
Plan.
24. The applicant shall monitor all on -site construction equipment for leaks and
complete regular preventive equipment maintenance. Fueling and maintenance
of vehicles shall occur within the area of active mining and no "topping off" of
vehicle fuel tanks shall be allowed.
Tiller routinely monitors all on -site construction equipment for leaks and performs
regular preventative maintenance of equipment. The Site operates under Tiller's
Spill Prevention Policy which prohibits "topping off' of vehicle fuel tanks.
25. Any above -ground storage tank (AST) at the Site shall be located more than 500
feet from surface waters.
A portable 200-gallon, double -walled diesel fuel tank is located on -site as a fuel
source for the operating equipment. The location of the tank is more than 500 feet
from surface waters and is indicated on Site Plan 2016 Activity.
26. In accordance with MPCA rules, the applicant shall notify the Minnesota Pollution
Control Agency of all AST's within 30 days of installation by submitting an AST
Notification Form.
An AST Notification Form was submitted to the MPCA within 30 days of installation
of the portable diesel fuel tank.
27. The City or its consultant shall monitor the potential impacts of mining activities
on the water resources at the site. The monitoring locations, protocols, and
methodology shall be specified in the AOP. The City shall submit all status
reports and ground and surface water monitoring reports to the CMSCWD, WCD
and the Minnesota DNR.
The City has determined the City's consultant will conduct the monitoring of
potential impact of mining activities on the water resources at the Site. Tiller has
cooperated with the City and/or its consultant to ensure access to the Site as
needed to comply with this condition.
28. The monitoring point installed by the WCD for the EIS pump test that gathers
baseline data in Zavoral Creek shall be maintained and monitored for the lifetime
of the project. Monitoring shall include water quality and quantity parameters.
The City has determined the City's consultant will conduct the monitoring of
potential impact of mining activities on the water resources at the Site. Tiller has
cooperated with the City and/or its consultant to ensure access to the Site as
needed to comply with this condition.
29. The City or its consultant shall install a monitoring station upstream of or near
Crystal Springs in order to isolate potential effects due to mining from other
effects due to unrelated activities within the watershed. The City or its
consultant will analyze the data to determine the effect, if any, to the springs due
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to the Zavoral Mine operation, and identify any negative impacts. The results of
the analysis shall be provided at least annually to the City for use during the
review of the AOP for the Project.
The City has determined the City's consultant will conduct the monitoring of
potential impact of mining activities on the water resources at the Site. Tiller has
cooperated with the City and/or its consultant to ensure access to the Site as
needed to comply with this condition.
30. The City or its consultant shall complete an annual field review of the wetland
boundaries of wetlands within the project area, including black ash seepage
swamps (Wetlands A, B, and C as shown in the CCES wetland delineation report
dated January 14, 2011), to determine if the mining activities have any impact on
the wetlands. The review shall occur within the growing season as defined by the
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Wetland Delineation Manual (North Central and
Northeast Regional Supplement), and shall be coordinated with the applicant and
when active mining operations are occurring.
The City has determined the City's consultant will conduct the monitoring of
potential impact of mining activities on the water resources at the Site. Tiller has
cooperated with the City and/or its consultant to ensure access to the Site as
needed to comply with this condition.
31. The applicant shall obtain the required Minnesota Department of Transportation
(Mn/DOT) Access permit (TP 1721) for the Project.
The Mn/DOT Access permit was issued near the end of October 2013. A copy of
the permit is on file with the City.
32. The applicant shall construct the new driveway access directly across from TH 97
as required by Mn/DOT for safe access.
Upon receiving the Mn/DOT Access permit, work began on the construction of the
new access alignment and right -turn lane during the last week of October 2013.
Work was completed on the new access alignment and right -turn lane by mid -
November 2013.
33. The applicant shall construct a new north -bound right -turn lane as required by
Mn/DOT (letter to the City of Scandia, January 22, 2009). The design of the right -
turn lane shall be consistent with the design of the existing left -turn lane.
See response to Condition #32 above.
34. The City or its consultant shall complete traffic monitoring of the Project. The
traffic monitoring protocol and requirements shall be identified in the AOP.
The City has determined the City's consultant will conduct the traffic monitoring of
the Project. Tiller has cooperated with the City and/or its consultant to ensure
access to the Site as needed to comply with this condition.
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35. The applicant shall record and report the numbers of trucks hauling Class C add -
rock from the Zavoral Mine site and the number and source location of trucks
hauling Class C add -rock to the Scandia Mine to the City quarterly to ensure that
additional truck traffic would not result from hauling from the Zavoral Site at
peak demand concurrently with other sites. The applicant shall submit annual
truck number and source reports with the Annual Operating Permit application.
Hauling materials from the Zavoral Mine to the Scandia Mine occurred during the
first quarter of 2015 and the fourth quarter of 2015. Approximately 11,369 truck
loads of Class C add -rock were hauled to the Scandia Mine from the Zavoral Mine
during the first quarter. Approximately 8,299 truck loads of Class C add -rock were
hauled to the Scandia Mine from the Zavoral Mine during the fourth quarter. No
other Class C add -rock was hauled to the Scandia Mine during the first and fourth
quarters of 2015. During the fourth quarter, approximately 25 truck loads or 570
tons of Class C were hauled to other projects.
36. Traffic generated by the Project shall not exceed the maximum levels analyzed in
the EIS for Alternatives 3 (average 334 to 440 round trips per working day; 600
peak round trips per day.)
Hauling occurred during the first and fourth quarters of 2015. Hauling occurred on
a total of 82 days throughout 2015 with an average of 240 trips per working day.
The peak number of trips per day was 600 trips.
During the fourth quarter of 2015, approximately 10 loads of millings were brought
on -site to complete construction of the main haul road.
37. All truck traffic generated by the project for projects outside Scandia shall utilize
TH 97, TH 95, CR 15 (Manning Ave), CR 91 (Lofton Ave) and the existing haul
route between Lofton Avenue and the Scandia Mine. Tiller shall notify the City in
advance of any hauling that will occur on local streets to serve local projects,
and shall receive confirmation that the City received notice prior to the start of
hauling on local streets. Trucks shall not back onto roadways.
The majority of hauling has been limited to the existing haul route traveling over TH
95 onto westbound TH 97, then north on Lofton Avenue and into the Scandia Mine.
Truck traffic for projects outside of Scandia utilized the haul route traveling over TH
95 onto westbound TH97.
38. Subject to approval from Mn/DOT, the applicant shall install truck warning signs
that comply with the Minnesota Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices
(MMUTCD) on State Scenic Byway TH 95 to advise drivers of trucks crossing TH
97 in and out of the Zavoral Site; on TH 97 at County Road 91 to advise drivers of
trucks turning onto TH 97; and on County 91 at 223rd Street.
An application to install truck warning signs at County Road 91 at 223rd Street was
submitted to Washington County Public Works Department. The request was
denied noting adequate site distances near the entrance to the Scandia Mine on
Lofton Ave. A copy of the denial letter was submitted to the City.
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An application to install truck warning signs at the requested locations has been
submitted to the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) but Tiller has
not yet received a permit decision from MnDOT.
39. The applicant shall provide parking for all employees and visitors within the site.
Circulation and parking shall minimize internal and external traffic conflicts.
Adequate parking is available and will be maintained on -site. The location of
parking is subject to change due to the dynamic nature of the mine site.
Circulation and parking minimizes internal and external traffic conflicts.
40. If the applicant has knowledge that a crash or traffic violation occurs involving a
truck hauling for Tiller, Tiller shall contact the City to report the incident
immediately. The applicant shall report actions it will take to respond to the
incident.
To the best of our knowledge there have not been any crash or traffic violations
that have occurred involving a truck hauling for Tiller during the 2015 calendar
year.
41. The applicant shall construct the fence included in the Project plans prior to
beginning mining operations, and shall maintain the fence until reclamation is
complete.
A portion of the Site along State Highway 95 is fenced with a four foot high chain
link fence. The fence is currently used in conjunction with an in place screening
berm and established vegetation to provide access control and screening from
State Highway 95. There is a locking metal gate at the entrance to the Site.
The fence is being maintained and is in good condition.
42. The hours of operation and hauling shall be conducted only between 7 a.m. and 7
p.m., Monday through Thursday and between 7 a.m. and 2 p.m. on Friday,
excluding Federal holidays, during daylight hours, or one hour before sunrise
and one hour after sunset during seasons when daylight is not available between
7 a.m. and 7 p.m., unless the City authorizes other hours or days of operation.
The Site operates in accordance with the hours of operation as defined in the
City's Mining Ordinance. Extended operating hours were not requested in 2015.
43. The applicant shall coordinate any proposed berm removals associated with
Project completion with the City.
Tiller will coordinate any proposed berm removals after Project completion with the
City.
44. The applicant shall implement the Dust Control Plan (dated 10/8/12 and updated
within 60 days of approval of the CUP), including all activities proposed during
stripping, grading and active mining operations.
Tiller Corporation 13
2016 Annual Operating Permit
January 25, 2016
Tiller implemented the approved dust control plan with the commencement of
construction activities at the site. The Dust Control Plan revised April 18, 2013 is
on file with the City. Please see section ll. A.5. for more information on the Dust
Control Plan.
45. The applicant shall utilize non -chloride agriculturally derived organic polymers or
naturally- occurring polymers on internal haul roads to control dust in
accordance with the Dust Control Plan. The applicant shall review the coverage
of the material on a regular basis, and reapply the polymers if they are no longer
effective.
Dust control on internal unpaved haul roads was implemented during the 2015
operating season in accordance with the Dust Control Plan. A non -chloride dust
suppressant was utilized as needed to control dust on -site.
46. The City or its consultants shall perform periodic on -site review and monitoring of
dust control activities to assure compliance with this permit. The monitoring
locations, protocols and methodology shall be specified in the AOP.
Cfl
The City has determined the City's consultant will conduct on -site review and
monitoring of dust control activities for the Project. Tiller has cooperated with the
City and/or its consultant to ensure access to the Site as needed to comply with
this condition.
The Dust Control Plan and air monitoring procedures shall be reviewed and
updated as necessary on at least an annual basis with the AOP application.
A Dust Control Plan, revised April 18, 2013, has been prepared for the Site and is
on file with the City. Tiller has reviewed the plan and the air monitoring procedures
in conjunction with this AOP and found them to be adequate.
The applicant shall implement the berms and screens proposed in the site plan.
The proposed screening berm on the site plan submitted with the CUP was
constructed during the 2013 operating season. See section II.AA for more
information about screening berms.
Trucks shall not idle on the site and approach area for more than 30 minutes.
Trucks are not allowed to idle on the Site or at the approach area for more than 30
minutes.
50. The project shall comply with the City's adopted noise standards. The City or its
consultant shall complete noise monitoring at the Project site. The monitoring
locations, protocols and methodology shall be specified in the AOP.
Site activities are conducted so as to be in compliance with all Federal, State and
City noise standards. The City or its consultants will conduct noise monitoring for
the Project. Tiller has cooperated with the City and/or its consultant to ensure
Tiller Corporation 14
2016 Annual Operating Permit
January 25, 2016
compliance with this condition.
51. If the noise levels at the Project exceed State Standards the applicant will identify
and take corrective actions to bring the noise levels into compliance. The City
may order additional testing to confirm that the Project is in compliance.
The City has not indicated to Tiller that they have identified any concerns about
compliance with Federal, State and City noise standards.
52. The applicant shall require that all Tiller -owned equipment on the site use
broadband alarms and haul trucks shall utilize a circular traffic pattern or other
traffic pattern to the extent feasible that minimizes the need for haul trucks to
back up on the site.
All Tiller -owned equipment on -site is equipped with broadband alarms.
53. The applicant shall ensure that on -site Tiller -owned equipment is properly muffled
and shall inspect mufflers on the on -site equipment on at least a weekly basis and
document inspections.
Tiller -owned equipment is properly muffled. The equipment is inspected regularly
and at least weekly during active operations to document the condition of the
equipment on -site. Appropriate maintenance is conducted as needed.
54. The applicant shall ensure that the mining plan will minimize any time when the
noise from the on -site equipment and haul trucks are operating without noise
mitigation from berms and/or the mine face.
The Site is operated with appropriate noise mitigation from berms and the mine
face.
55. The applicant shall complete any clearing of vegetation (trees and brush) from
previously-unmined areas from September through April to minimize noise
impacts.
No clearing of trees or brush was conducted in 2015.
56. The applicant shall recycle debris created by clearing, grubbing and excavation,
or dispose of stumps, trees and debris in another manner approved by the City.
See Section II.A.8 for information about Site clearing.
57. The applicant shall maintain the mine site and equipment in an orderly condition,
and shall control weeds in planted and reclaimed areas. The applicant shall
preserve, maintain and supplement existing trees, berms and topsoil along
existing public rights -of -way as proposed in the Site Plan and Reclamation Plan.
Tiller maintains mine site equipment in an orderly condition. The Phase 1 and
portions of Phase 2 reclamation areas received a targeted spot herbicide
treatments and maintenance mowing in 2015.
Tiller Corporation 15
2016 Annual Operating Permit
January 25, 2016
58. The applicant shall provide and maintain portable sanitary facilities to serve the
site and shall meet all applicable standards and regulations for wastewater
disposal.
Portable sanitary facilities are provided in the operating areas as required by the
Mine Safety and Health Administration.
59. The applicant shall dispose of any waste generated from the mining operation,
including waste from vehicles or equipment maintenance, in accordance with
Federal, State and City requirements.
Waste generated from the operation is disposed of in a 4-cubic yard covered waste
bin and maintained in accordance with Federal, State and City requirements.
60. Within 60 days of the approval of the CUP, the applicant shall prepare and
provide to the City an updated reclamation plan (revising the Reclamation Plan
dated October 9, 2012), which includes performance standards identified in the
conditions that follow for approval by the City. Reclamation on the site shall be
implemented in accordance with the updated and approved reclamation plan.
Such updated reclamation plan shall be subject to review by and approval of the
City.
An updated Reclamation Plan, revised April 18, 2013, has been prepared for the
Site and was provided to the City within 60 days of CUP approval. Site reclamation
is conducted in accordance with the approved Reclamation Plan.
61. Reclamation shall proceed concurrently and proportionally to mining operations.
Progress on reclamation shall be demonstrated in each AOP application.
Reclamation is proceeding concurrently and in proportion to mining operations
conducted in accordance with the approved Reclamation Plan. Progress on
reclamation for 2015 is included in Attachment 3, Annual Reclamation Report.
62. The applicant shall use clean, non -contaminated fill material and topsoil for all
reclamation. The applicant shall use sandy subsoil available at the site with
added organic soil amendments for reclamation topsoil. The applicant shall
successfully establish permanent native vegetation in reclaimed areas as per the
schedule, extents and methods as provided in the Zavoral Reclamation Plan and
Zavoral Reclamation Plan Topsoil and Prairie Establishment Memorandum
(October 3, 2011) by CCES.
Clean, non -contaminated fill material derived from on -site was used for reclamation
conducted in 2015. As overburden is removed from areas being prepared for
mining, the overburden is then placed directly in reclamation areas to work towards
achieving the final reclamation grades.
Clean, non -contaminated organic material was brought on -site in 2014 in
anticipation of soil blending activities required to engineer the topsoil for final
grading. Soil blending with on -site sands occurred in 2015 and is expected to
Tiller Corporation 16
2016 Annual Operating Permit
January 25, 2016
continue in 2016 when the engineered topsoil is in demand for the final grading.
Reclamation activities were conducted in accordance with the approved
Reclamation Plan, which includes the Zavoral Reclamation Plan Topsoil and
Prairie Establishment Memorandum.
63. Reclamation success shall be defined as follows:
90% areal coverage of vegetation for each reclaimed area, within 3 years post
seed installation;
Non-native and invasive plant species (as defined and listed by the Minnesota
DNR) and potentially -aggressive native plant species (Rhus spp. And
Juniperus virginiana) shall account for no more than 20% cover of the
reclaimed area at the end of the 5th growing season, post seed
installation.
The reclaimed areas shall contain at least 50% of the species for both
grasses and forbs contained in the specified seed mixes at the end of the 5th
growing season, post seed installation;
Performance monitoring, in accordance with this condition, began in 2014 with the
monitoring of the Phase 1 Reclamation area. Vegetation establishment is occurring
as expected. A random meander survey of the planting area revealed that native
seedling establishment was high, with at least two to three native seedlings per
square foot present in the areas that were sampled, which is an appropriate
seedling density for a second year planting.
64. Vegetation establishment and monitoring shall continue for a period of 5 years
after completion of the Zavoral Mine Project, in its entirety.
Phase 1 Reclamation completed the second year of monitoring in 2015. Vegetation
establishment is occurring as expected. Maintenance activities in Phase 1
Reclamation and a portion of Phase 2 Reclamation included mowing and weed
treatments.
65. The City shall monitor the transplanting of trees to ensure a survival rate of at
least 80% for all transplanted trees. The Applicant shall provide the City with the
quantity, location, species and proposed maintenance plan for all trees
transplanted as part of the reclamation. Survival rates of less than 80% will
require replacement of the dead trees by the applicant. Replacement tree
species will be selected in consultation with the City and its consultant and
approved by the City.
During Fall 2013, 25 trees were transplanted at the Site during vegetation removal
at the start of the Project. In 2015, one (1) of the twenty-five (25) transplanted
white pines has proven to be unsuccessful. The remaining twenty-four (24)
successfully transplanted white pine trees will continue to be monitored.
A Transition Area within Phase 1 Reclamation was planted with a total of 100 trees
and shrubs in May 2015. The plantings have remained viable throughout the
growing season of 2015 and will continue to be monitored into 2016.
Tiller Corporation 17
2016 Annual Operating Permit
January 25, 2016
66. The applicant shall submit annual reclamation monitoring reports to the City,
with the AOP application, that describe the reclamation activities that occurred in
the specified year, and the status of all reclaimed areas. The applicant shall
provide detailed information such as percent coverage of vegetation, species
composition, etc., pertaining to compliance with the performance standards, as
provided above. If the City determines that a reclaimed area has not met the
vegetative performance standards listed above, the city shall order corrective
action(s) including, but not limited to, reseeding, over -seeding, spot seeding, or
other actions so that the reclamation meets the criteria for success. The specific
corrective actions may be dependent on site conditions. The city will determine
the appropriate actions in consultation with its consultants, the applicant, and
other experts, as necessary. The applicant shall include the required corrective
actions in the reclamation monitoring report and AOP application.
Attachment 3, Annual Reclamation Report has been prepared for the Site for
activities conducted in 2015.
67. The City or its consultants shall complete monitoring of reclamation activities on
the site on behalf of the City. Monitoring locations, protocols and methodologies
shall be specified in the AOP.
The City has determined the City's consultant will monitor the reclamation activities
of the Project. Tiller has cooperated with the City and/or its consultant to ensure
access to the Site as needed to comply with this condition.
68. Final reclamation shall include removal of any equipment and backfilling and
seeding the operations area.
Not applicable in 2015.
69. Approval of the reclamation plan shall not constitute an approval by the City of
Scandia of an ultimate use for the site. Ultimate use shall be determined based
on the Scandia Comprehensive Plan and ordinances in effect at the time the
mining is complete and applications for development of the site may be
submitted.
No response needed.
70. The applicant shall not disturb existing woodlands and screening outside the
mine area limits.
Tiller has not disturbed any of the existing woodlands or screening outside the
mine area limits.
71. The applicant shall establish a maximum stockpile height of 880 feet above mean
sea level. Stockpiles located in the Phase 1 mining area of the Site shall be
maintained at a lower height as needed so that the stockpiles are not visible from
the key viewpoints identified in the EIS.
Tiller Corporation 18
2016 Annual Operating Permit
January 25, 2016
There is one stockpile of material set aside to be used in reclamation that is
currently stored near the base of the main access road. The stockpile does not
exceed 880 feet above mean sea level and is not visible from key viewpoints
located on State Hwy 95 and State Hwy 97.
72. All lighting on the site shall be hooded or controlled and meet the requirements of
the City's Development code. Lighting shall be limited to the hours of mine
operation. Lighting shall be arranged to deflect light away from any adjoining
residential property or from public streets.
No lighting plants were utilized at the Site during the 2015 operating season.
73. The applicant shall obtain the required sign permits for all signs proposed at the
site.
The installation of truck warning signs per condition #34 is contingent upon
approval from the appropriate road authority. Washington County Public Works
Department denied the application for a right-of-way permit requesting a truck
hauling sign on County Road 91 (Lofton Ave.) near 223rd Street, noting adequate
site distances near the entrance to the Scandia Mine on Lofton Ave. An application
has been submitted to the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MNDOT) but
MNDOT has not yet ruled on it.
74. The applicant shall pay all costs associated with site monitoring activities
identified in this permit and the AOP including, but not limited to monitoring of
traffic, air quality, noise, ground water and surface water, and the reclamation
plan, and the costs of equipment, installation, site visits, data collection, data
analysis, reporting, maintaining compliance and all other costs associated with all
of the monitoring activities identified in these conditions.
Financial agreements have been established for the Project and are on file with the City
and are reviewed annually with the AOP. The escrow account is replenished as
necessary to cover costs incurred by the City.
75. The applicant shall cooperate with the City and provide access to the site as
needed to conduct the monitoring activities required by this permit.
Tiller has cooperated with the City and/or its consultant to ensure access to the
Site as needed to comply with this condition.
76. The applicant shall provide a final, corrected copy of the Groundwater Monitoring
Plan, Reclamation Plan and Dust Control Plan to the City within 60 days of
approval of the CUP. All such updated plans shall be subject to review by and
approval of the City. The Applicant shall implement the updated and
approved plans.
Final corrected copies of the GWPP, Reclamation Plan and Dust Control Plan
were provided to the City within 60 days of CUP approval.
Tiller Corporation 19
2016 Annual Operating Permit
January 25, 2016
77. The applicant and owner shall enter into a Conditional Use Permit Compliance
and Reclamation Agreement ("Development Agreement") with the City within
fifteen (15) days of approval of the CUP. The Agreement shall specify that the
project will be implemented to comply with Alternative #3 in the EIS. The
Agreement shall specify that all Project activities, except reclamation, shall be
completed within 3.3 years beginning 30 days after all permits required prior to
the start of mining operations are obtained. Reclamation activities and
reclamation monitoring shall continue for five years after completion of the
mining activities, as specified in this permit.
A Development Agreement has been entered into between Tiller and The City.
The Development Agreement satisfies this condition and is on file with the City.
78. If negative impacts or issues due to mining activities are identified by the City or
its consultants during any of the monitoring described in the CUP or AOP, the
City may request additional monitoring, may require the Applicant to cease
mining operations, or may consult with other agencies to take appropriate
actions.
No negative impacts or issues due to mining activities were identified by the City
or its consultants in 2015.
79. The Agreement shall include a financial guarantee acceptable to the City to
assure compliance with the reclamation plan, and provide for an escrow that the
City will use to pay for City staff and consultant costs related to monitoring and
reporting activities.
Financial agreements have been established for the Project and are on file with the
City. The financial guarantee is reviewed annually with the AOP. The escrow account is
replenished as necessary to cover costs incurred by the City.
80. The applicant must apply for and obtain an Annual Operating Permit from the
City.
The Site operates in accordance with the AOP issued in 2015. The Site will continue
to make application for each subsequent AOP for the duration of the Project.
81. The applicant shall, on or before the earlier of (1) commencement of any Project
activities on the Project Site or (2) April 15, 2013, provide to the City an
Irrevocable Letter of Credit, Performance Bond or other security satisfactory to
the City in the amount of $550,000 and the LOC required by the Development
Agreement to guarantee the completion of the reclamation plan and the
performance of its obligations set forth by this permit. The City may require the
amount of this security to be adjusted in future years based on inflationary
increases in construction and monitoring costs, or upon re-evaluation of the
needs for reclamation, as a condition of approval of an Annual Operating Permit.
Future reductions in this security shall be made as provided by the ordinance.
The City may allow reductions in portions of the Letter of Credit or other security
for completed and approved reclamation on a five-year basis.
Tiller Corporation 20
2016 Annual Operating Permit
January 25, 2016
A Performance Bond issued by Liberty Mutual in the amount of $550,000 and a
Letter of Credit to guarantee the expected reclamation have been issued and are
on file with the City. The Letter of Credit is reviewed annually with the AOP.
82. The applicant shall pay all fees and escrows related to this application.
Tiller has cooperated with the City and/or its consultant to ensure the fees are
issued in accordance with this condition. An escrow is on file with the City.
83. The Applicant shall at all times comply with the terms and conditions of this
Conditional Use Permit, the Annual Operating Permit and the Development
Agreement.
Tiller will comply with the terms and conditions of the CUP, AOP and the
Development Agreement that have been issued for the Project.
C. Annual Activity
1. Amount of material removed from the site: Approximately 511,870 tons of material
was removed in 2015.
• Approximately 511,300 tons of material was hauled to the Scandia Mine.
• Approximately 570 tons of material was hauled to other projects.
2. Amount of add -rock brought onto the site: 0 tons.
3. Amount of recycled asphalt brought to the site: 0 tons.
4. Amount of recycled concrete brought to the site: 0 tons.
5. Other: Approximately 250 tons of millings were brought on -site for the construction of
the main haul road.
6. Area reclaimed and type of reclamation: During the majority of 2015, efforts focused
on management of Phase 1 Reclamation, the establishment of the Transition Area,
preparation of soils for reclamation and grading and topsoil placement in Phase 2
Reclamation including the completion of the main access road located within Phase
2 Reclamation. As part of the overall reclamation during 2015, the utility poles were
relocated to accommodate the reclamation grades and assume a more linear route
through the site. A full description of reclamation activities is detailed in Attachment
3, Annual Reclamation Report.
Reclamation activities planned for 2016 will include grading, topsoil placement and
seeding in the Phase 2, Phase 3 and Phase 4 Reclamation areas. Reclamation
activities will be conducted in accordance with the approved Reclamation Plan.
7. Average number of trips hauling material to and from the site per day for the season:
The average number of trucks travelling to and from the site per day in 2015 during
hauling were 240 trips per day.
Tiller Corporation 21
2016 Annual Operating Permit
January 25, 2016
D. Description of operating conditions planned for the coming year:
1. Mining will continue to advance through Phase 2 Mining and Phase 3 Mining during
2016. Mining of the Site will be completed during 2016.
The mining operation includes the removal of overburden and the excavation of sand
and gravel. The marketable sand and gravel is loaded into haul trucks and
transported to the Scandia Mine as Class C add -rock or may be transported directly
to local projects.
As mining advances throughout the Site, overburden materials are separated from
the marketable aggregate and placed in reclamation areas to be used to achieve
final reclamation grades. The progression of reclamation activities will follow the
advancement of mining throughout the Site.
2. Site Plan: A Site Plan 2016 Activity is attached which illustrates the areas planned to
be mined in 2016.
3. Aerial Photo: An aerial photo is attached which illustrates the areas planned to be
mined in 2016.
4. Reclamation: During the majority of 2015, efforts focused on management of Phase
1 Reclamation, the establishment of the Transition Area, preparation of soils for
reclamation and grading and topsoil placement in Phase 2 Reclamation
including the completion of the main access road located within Phase 2
Reclamation. As part of the overall reclamation during 2015, the utility poles were
relocated to accommodate the reclamation grades and assume a more linear route
through the site. A full description of reclamation activities is detailed in Attachment
3, Annual Reclamation Report.
Reclamation activities planned for 2016 will include grading, topsoil placement and
seeding in the Phase 2, Phase 3 and Phase 4 Reclamation areas. Reclamation
activities will be conducted in accordance with the approved Reclamation Plan.
5. Operating Conditions for 2016: Active mining will occur within the Phase 2 Mining
area and Phase 3 Mining area as indicated on the Site Plan 2016 Activity.
E. Inspection:
The City conducts an annual inspection of the Site. The last inspection occurred on
October 7, 2015.
Tiller Corporation 22
2016 Annual Operating Permit
January 25, 2016
III. CERTIFICATION
I certify that the plans, specifications or reports for the
above described facility were prepared by me or under
my direct supervision and that I am a duly Registered
Professional Engineer under the laws of the State of
Minnesota.
Kirsten Pauly
Date: January 25, 2016 Reg. No. 21842
Tiller Corporation 23
2016 Annual Operating Permit
January 25, 2016
Attachment 1: Groundwater Sampling Results
MW-1
9/10/2013
1/15/2014
1/15/2015
12/16/2015
units
Diesel Range Organics
ND
ND
ND
ND
mg/1
Ethylbenzene
ND
ND
ND
ND
ug/L
Benzene
ND
ND
ND
ND
ug/L
Toluene
ND
ND
ND
ND
ug/L
Xylene
ND
ND
ND
ND
ug/L
* ND = Not Detected. ** NA = Not Analyzed.
In accordance with the GWPP, a background or baseline groundwater sample was taken from the on -
site monitoring well (MW-1) by Tiller's groundwater sampling consultant on September 10, 2013 before
the commencement of Site activity. A water level reading was also taken and recorded at this time. The
baseline sample was analyzed for Diesel Range Organics (DRO), Gasoline Range Organics (GRO) and
benzene.
Subsequent samples are required to test DRO. Gasoline was not stored at the Site, therefore Gasoline
Range Organics (GRO) and benzene are not required to be analyzed. The analytical results of the
groundwater samples have not indicated the presence of DROs.
Attachment 2: Zavoral Well Water Use
Date
Amount Pumped (gallons)
May 19, 2015
<50*
May 21, 2015
<50*
September 28, 2015
8,000
September 29, 2015
8,000
September 30, 2015
8,000
October 2, 2015
8,000
October 5, 2015
8,000
October 6, 2015
8,000
October 7, 2015
8,000
October 13, 2015
8,000
October 15, 2015
8,000
October 19, 2015
10,000
October 22, 2015
8,000
November 9, 2015
8,000
November 10, 2015
8,000
November 11, 2015
8,000
Total for 2015
114,100
* Tested pumping equipment on May 191h and May 21s' to ensure the equipment would
operate as designed. The pump ran for approximately five minutes on both testing occasions.
Less than 50 gallons discharged from the well on both testing occasions.
Attachment 3: Annual Reclamation Report
1. Reclamation Activities 2015
During the majority of 2015, efforts focused on management of Phase 1 Reclamation, the establishment
of the Transition Area, preparation of soils for reclamation, and grading and topsoil placement in Phase
2 Reclamation including the completion of the main access road located within Phase 2 Reclamation. As
part of the overall reclamation during 2015, the utility poles were relocated to accommodate the
reclamation grades and assume a more linear route through the site.
In 2016, it is anticipated that reclamation activities will continue in the Phase 1 Reclamation Area with
maintenance and monitoring activities which includes the newly established Transition Area. In addition,
seeding will take place on Phase 2 Reclamation and reclamation activities will be completed on Phase 3
and Phase 4 reclamation.
Reclamation activity progress reports will continue to be submitted to the City of Scandia on a quarterly
basis during the growing season and will document progress of reclamation implementation activity,
planning, monitoring, and corrective actions, if any, that need to be taken in 2016 for the planted native
prairie or for the Transition Area.
a. Transition Area
Implementation of the Transition Area Development Plan began in the fall of 2014 with the
selective removal of non-native herbaceous species through a spot herbicide application and
vegetation removal. In May 2015, the Transition Area was planted with a total of 100 shrub and
sub -canopy tree species. All newly installed woody species were mulched and the sub -canopy
species received deer protection fencing to prevent browse. Monitoring throughout 2015 has
indicated the transplant has been successfully implemented. The Transition area will continue to
be monitored to ensure the area meets the performance standards set forth in the Plan.
b. Year Two Maintenance of Phase 1 Reclamation (2015)
Site vegetation management within Phase 1 Reclamation during 2015 followed the approved
reclamation plan and included a maintenance mowing, spot herbicide treatments and manual
vegetation removal of non-native and invasive weed species occurring within the Phase 1
Reclamation area. Critical Connections Ecological Services (CCES) worked closely with the sub-
contractor Minnesota Native Landscapes, Inc. (MNL) to oversee and direct reclamation
implementation activities and to monitor the seeded reclamation area during the 2015 season
in order to determine and advise on adaptive management techniques which included optimum
timing and extent for both mowing and spot spraying treatments.
2. Status of Reclaimed Areas
Active reclamation occurred in Phase 1 and Phase 2 Reclamation during 2015. The relocation of the
utility poles required some grading within Phase 3 Reclamation, but no substantial reclamation occurred
in Phase 3 outside of this activity.
a. Phase 1 Reclamation
CCES has monitored the progress of the native prairie seeding installed within Phase 1
Reclamation as well as the success of the white pine trees transplanted along the north
perimeter of the site. The native prairie seeding is establishing as expected. As is typical of a
second year planting, commonly observed species included Canada wildrye, sideoats grama,
black-eyed Susan, wild bergamot and foxglove beardtongue. Several species had reached
flowering maturity by the end of June including black-eyed Susan, anise hyssop, Canada
milkvetch, wild bergamot, foxglove beardtongue, figwort, side oats grama and Canada wildrye.
A random meander survey of the planting area revealed that native seedling establishment was
high, with two to three native seedlings/1-year old plants per square foot present in the areas
that were sampled (an appropriate
seedling density for a second year
planting). As outlined above, weed
pressure in the native planting area was
controlled through well-timed mowing,
targeted spot herbicide application and
vegetation removal during 2015. The
most abundant weed species in the
planting area is yellow sweet clover
which was targeted during 2015 weed
treatment efforts. CCES will continue to
monitor weed pressure in the planting
area and manage weed species to
ensure the successful establishment of
The photograph depicts the Phase 1 Reclamation area in the native prairie planting within the
July 2015 and demonstrates several species that have
reached flowering maturity. reclamation area.
At this time, one (1) of the twenty-five (25) transplanted white pines has proven to be
unsuccessful. The remaining twenty-four (24) successfully transplanted white pine trees will
continue to be monitored.
b. Phase 2 Reclamation
Reclamation activities were focused within the Phase 2 Reclamation area in 2015 with grading
and topsoil placement substantially complete. Reclamation generally occurred from west to
east. As suitable fill material was encountered during the advancement of mining, the fill
material would often times be placed within the reclamation area in order to work towards
accomplishing the final grades of the phase. As part of the overall reclamation of Phase 2, the
main access road was constructed.
c. Phase 3 Reclamation
Not applicable in 2015.
d. Phase 4 Reclamation
Not applicable in 2015.
Mining Limits Reclaimed Area
_ o -
Transition Area
PHASE 2 RECLAMATION
q
TATE HIGHWAY 97-
1 Phase 3 s
"ARSecordary
/ HaulRoads o
/
/ lil
/
/ I
/ I
/ PHASE 3 MINING
I
PHASE 4 RECLAMATION
Property
Screening LRECLAMATION
Berm
e _
Aerial image from Google, DigitalGlobe dated 8-11-2015.
1V
Figure 1
Aerial Photo
250 0 250 500 Annual Operating Permit
SCALE IN FEET
FF
PHASE 2 RECLAMATION
• RECLAMATION WILL CONTINUE TO PROGRESS FROM WEST
TO EAST,
• THE GRADING AND TOPSOIL PLACEMENT ARE SUBSTANTIALLY
COMPLETE, SEEDING WILL BE CONDUCTED IN
ACCORDANCE WITH THE APPROVED RECLAMATION PLAN.
• RECLAMATION WORK MAY EXTEND BEYOND PHASE 2
RECLAMATION TO ALLOW SUFFICIENT ROOM FOR
RECLAMATION ACTIVITY.
• MAIN HAUL ROAD CONSTRUCTED \
PHASE 1 MINING
• COMPLETE
to remain for
Transplanted Treess,
Site Access and Turn Lan Lane Constructed
I L
/\ aln Haul Rd
�Constfucted
Exlsfing screening
Screening Baia,
111\\
Trees to remai
screening within
PHASE 1 RECLAMATION
�� \ • RECLAIMED THE ST. CROIX RIVER DISTRICT AND USA SCENIC
j EASEMENT AREAS DURING 2013 OPERATING SEASON.
iI , \ \\ \ \ \ • REMOVED EXISTING STOCKPILES
�\ THE GRADING, TOPSOIL PLACEMENT AND SEEDING WAS
r V CONDUCTED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE APPROVED
RECLAMATION PLAN.
�� `(� �� ���� • RECLAMATION WORK MAY EXTEND BEYOND THE RIVER
DISTRICTISCENIC EASEMENT AREA AND INTO THE MINING �.—
�� \ \ AREA TO ALLOW SUFFICIENT ROOM FOR RECLAMATION
VACTIVITY.
TRANSITION AREA ESTABLISHED DURING 2015 OPERATING ;
PZ-2 Trani Area
l( \ x I III
\\ I'.,,l V
I Ill
87
o SECONDARY _ � � A',
T
WOODED BLUFF TO REMAIN
I UNDISTURBED NOTES:
THIS PLAN DEPICTS ACTIVITIES ANTICIPATED FOR THE 2016 MINING SEASON.
1
V I PARCEL INFORMATION FROM WASHINGTON COUNTY LAND SURVEY DIVISION.
PARCEL DATA IS CURRENT TO MAY 31,2008.
eta
TOPOGRAPHY IS FROM N1AV 5, 2015. AERIAL PHOTOGRAPHY PROCESSED
�� I �� THROUGH Pli
MW } MINING SETBACKS: 50' FROM ADJOINING PROPERTY LINES; 1 OO' FROM ANY
PHASE 4 RECLAMATION PUBLICRIGHT-OF-WAY.
ago � � • PROGRESS ON RECLAMATION WILL OCCUR IN PHASE 3
�I fU@i Production Well MINTHE GRADING,
AMINING ADVANCES
� S1or0TOgE o • THE WILL
TOPSOIL PLACEMENT, AND SEEDING L BE RESTORATION ONLY
CONDUCTED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE APPROVED
RECLAMATION PLAN
Opp �• RECLAMATION WORK MAY
EXTEND
BEYOND ROOM FOR
4
pp ppa u!I'I Q POWER POLE
RECLAMATION ACTIVITY pp
IT
HASE 3 MINING k TRANSITION AREA
\ / CONTINUE PHASE 3 MINING
PHASE 2 • MINIMUM EXCAVATION ELEVATION = 840 ft
HAULOROADS ��I�„� �1111111\IIuII SEA LEVEL.
/) PRelocation
Z- I of Utlllly Poles
has been completed
HASE 3 RECLAMATION
\ r}
PROGRESS ON RECLAMATION WILL OCCUR IN PHASE 2
h" MINING AS MINING ADVANCES
THE GRADING, TOPSOIL PLACEMENT, AND SEEDING WILL BE
CONDUCTED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE APPROVED
e6o T' RECLAMATION PLAN
RECLAMATION WORK MAY EXTEND BEYOND PHASE 3
RECLAMATION TO ALLOW SUFFICIENT ROOM FOR
RECLAMATION ACTIVITY
\1 I I PHASE 2 MINING
�I
I
CONTINUE PHASE 2 MINING
MINIMUM EXCAVATION ELEVATION = 840 ff ABOVE MEAN
SEA LEVEL.
I�EDzoo o zoo aoo
SCALE IN FEET
0
unde
ngineering, Puc.
CONSULTING CIVIL ENGINEERS
10830 NESBITT AVENUE SOUTH
BLOOMINGTON, MINNESOTA 55437
(952) 881-3344 TELEPHONE
(952)881-1913 FAX
-sundecivil.com
TILLER
CORPORATION
ZAVORAL MINING
AND RECLAMATION
PROJECT
SCANDIA,
MINNESOTA
DATE REVISION
08/27/2012 proposed berm --k/access road
1WRA2012 mnstrud new access and turn lane
1/21/2014 N14AOP
103/2015 2015 AOP
1113/2016 Update for 2016 ACE
I HEREBY CERTIFY THAT THIS PLAN,
SPECIFICATION, OR REPORT WAS PREPARED
BY ME OR UNDER MY DIRECT SUPERVISION
AND THAT I AM A DULY LICENSED
PROFESSIONAL GINEER UNDER THE LAWS
OF THE TAT FMINNE
en Pauly
DATE: 1/13/2016 REG. NO.: 21842
INFORMATION:
PROJECT Ni 02-626
DRAWN BY:
CHECKED BY: KIP
APPROVED BY KIP
SCALE: Graphic
DATE' 1 13 2015
DESCRIPTION:
SITE PLAN
2016 ACTIVITY
SHEET NO:
AOP
of
#02-626 T. 111, , 1. 11 11
DRAWING: \ftMenspc\d,gA,-r1I,,-NI\ID, Zavoial\AOP-Annual Opel—P—hm 2016 AOPWte PIan 2016 AOP Zavolal.d g LWOUT, C2 SITE PLAN