California Code of Regulations
Title 14 - Natural Resources
Division 2 - Department of Conservation
Chapter 8 - Mining and Geology
Subchapter 1 - State Mining and Geology Board
Article 9 - Reclamation Standards
Section 3711 - Performance Standards for Topsoil Salvage, Maintenance, and Redistribution

Universal Citation: 14 CA Code of Regs 3711

Current through Register 2024 Notice Reg. No. 38, September 20, 2024

When the approved reclamation plan calls for revegetation or cultivation of disturbed lands, the following performance standards shall apply to topsoil salvage, maintenance, and redistribution activities:

(a) All salvageable topsoil suitable for revegetation shall be removed as a separate layer from areas to be disturbed by mining operations. Topsoil and vegetation removal shall not precede surface mining activities by more than one year, unless a longer time period is approved by the lead agency.

(b) Topsoil resources shall be mapped prior to stripping and the location of topsoil stockpiles shall be shown on a map in the reclamation plan. If the amount of topsoil needed to cover all surfaces to be revegetated is not available on site, other suitable material capable of sustaining vegetation (such as subsoil) shall be removed as a separate layer for use as a suitable growth media. Topsoil and suitable growth media shall be maintained in separate stockpiles. Test plots may be required to determine the suitability of growth media for revegatation purposes.

(c) Soil salvage operations and phases of reclamation shall be carried out in accordance with a schedule that:

(1) is set forth in the approved reclamation plan;

(2) minimizes the area disturbed; and

(3) is designed to achieve maximum revegetation success allowable under the mining plan.

(d) Topsoil and suitable growth media shall be used to phase reclamation as soon as can be accommodated by the mining schedule presented in the approved reclamation plan following the mining of an area. Topsoil and suitable growth media that cannot be utilized immediately for reclamation shall be stockpiled in an area where it will not be disturbed until needed for reclamation. Topsoil and suitable growth media stockpiles shall be clearly identified to distinguish them from mine waste dumps. Topsoil and suitable growth media stockpiles shall be planted with a vegetative cover or shall be protected by other equally effective measures to prevent water and wind erosion and to discourage weeds. Relocation of topsoil or suitable growth media stockpiles for purposes other than reclamation shall require prior written approval from the lead agency.

(e) Topsoil and suitable growth media shall be redistributed in a manner that results in a stable, uniform thickness consistent with the approved end use, site configuration, and drainage patterns.

1. New section filed 12-16-92; operative 1-15-93 (Register 92, No. 51).

Note: Authority cited: Sections 2755, 2756 and 2773, Public Resources Code. Reference: Section 2773, Public Resources Code.

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