Administrative Rules of Montana
Department 17 - ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY
Chapter 17.24 - RECLAMATION
Subchapter 17.24.2 - Rules and Regulations Governing the Opencut Mining Act
Rule 17.24.207 - ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS FOR BENTONITE MINES
Current through Register Vol. 6, March 22, 2024
(1) In addition to the requirements imposed by ARM 17.24.203, 17.24.206, and 17.24.218 through 17.24.222, the department may require the following information as part of the plan of operation for a bentonite mining operation:
(2) A soil analysis required under (1)(a) must describe:
(3) A soil analysis required by (1)(a) must be accompanied by a map that describes :
(4) The department may also require that the plan of operation contain a description of the location and method of disposal of bentonite cleanings, stray bentonite seams, and overburden that are unsuitable for plant growth. Such materials must be buried under at least three feet of material suitable for sustaining the postmining vegetation, but if suitable burial material is not available, then the material that is unsuitable for plant growth must be laid and graded to a condition that is as good or better than the pre-mine condition, minimizes adverse impacts to plant growth, and blends into the surrounding area.
AUTH: 82-4-422, MCA; IMP: 82-4-432, 82-4-434, MCA