208.17 - RECLAMATION REQUIREMENTS.
208.17 RECLAMATION REQUIREMENTS.
1. An operator authorized under this chapter to operate a mine,
after completion of mining operations and within the time specified
in section 208.19, shall:
a. Grade affected lands to slopes having a maximum of one
foot vertical rise for each four feet of horizontal distance. Where
the original topography of the affected land was steeper than one
foot of vertical rise for each four feet of horizontal distance, the
affected lands may be graded to blend with the surrounding terrain.
However, water impoundments, pit or quarry floors, and highwalls are
not subject to the requirements of this paragraph.
b. Stabilize and revegetate affected lands, except for water
impoundments and pit or quarry floors as approved by the division
before the release of the bond as provided in section 208.19.
c. Properly dispose of all mine-related debris, junk, waste
materials, old equipment, and other materials of similar or like
nature, within the registration boundaries of the site.
2. Notwithstanding subsection 1, overburden piles where
deposition has not occurred for a period of twelve months shall be
stabilized and revegetated.
3. Topsoil that is a part of overburden shall not be destroyed or
buried in the process of mining.
4. The division may grant a variance from the requirements of
subsections 1 and 2.
5. A bond or security posted under this chapter to assure
reclamation of affected lands shall not be released until all of the
reclamation work required by this section has been performed in
accordance with this chapter and division rules, except when a
replacement bond or security is posted by a new operator or
responsibility is transferred under section 208.16. Section History: Early Form
[C71, 73, 75, 77, 79, 81, § 83A.17] Section History: Recent Form
85 Acts, ch 137, §14
C93, § 208.17
96 Acts, ch 1043, §10
Referred to in § 208.19, 208.23, 208.28