Russ Means

The hearing addresses a possible violation of regulations related to the Western Slope Flagstone Quarry No. 2, operated by Rudolph Fontanari. The main issues include failure to comply with the conditions of an order, permit, or regulation, specifically regarding water application within the permit boundary. The operator was found in violation of regulations in a previous hearing on August 21, 2019, and a cease and desist order was issued. However, subsequent inspections revealed continued irrigation activities and the installation of a new water conveyance system. Staff recommendations include finding multiple violations, issuing a new cease and desist order, requiring corrective actions, and considering permit suspension or revocation. Civil penalties are also being considered due to the operator's lack of compliance.

The Mined Land Reclamation Board meeting includes discussion and potential action on various agenda items. These include considering an extension to the reclamation deadline for Gold Eagle Mining, Inc., and Highbury Resources, Inc. Additionally, the board will hold an enforcement hearing regarding W.W. Clyde and Company. The agenda also includes a standing discussion item on DRMS processes and informational items, a public comment period, and a possible executive session for legal advice.

The meeting included discussions and potential actions related to several mining operations. Key items included an enforcement hearing for Dwayne Hall regarding financial warranty forfeiture, and an informational briefing from Climax Molybdenum Company on the status of mining and reclamation at the Climax and Henderson Mines. Additionally, there was an enforcement hearing for Robert Congdon regarding possible permit violations, and a discussion item on Hard Rock Rule Making. The agenda also covered public comments and an executive session for legal advice.

The meeting includes discussions and potential actions regarding enforcement hearings for Indian Creek Mining Corp. and The Mining Company, Inc., addressing permit revocations and financial warranty forfeitures. The board will consider modifications to MLRB Board Policy 70.1 concerning the rotation of the Board Chair. An update on Senate Bill 25-054, the Legacy Mining and Modernization Act, will be presented. The board will also convene in executive session for an audit update from the Office of the State Auditor.

The meeting included discussions and actions related to various mining operations. Key topics included the consideration of an amendment application for the West Farm Pit, with concerns raised about potential impacts to water wells and nearby structures. The board also addressed enforcement hearings for multiple entities, including Avalanche Creek Marble and Alabaster, LLC, The City of Lafayette, Deb Rudibaugh, and Way Up High Mining Company, LLC, addressing issues such as permit compliance, violations, and corrective actions. Additionally, there was a discussion on hard rock rule making and a motion to enter an executive session to discuss legal matters.