Section 530. Process in revegetation

A. Slopes shall be graded in keeping with good conservation practices acceptable to the division. Slopes shall be provided with proper structures such as terraces, berms, and waterways, to accommodate surface water where necessary and to minimize erosion due to surface run-off. Slopes shall be stabilized, protected with a permanent vegetative or riprap covering and not be in an eroded state at the time reclamation is complete.

B. Crusted and hard soil surfaces shall be scarified prior to revegetation. Steep graded slopes shall be tracked (running a cleated crawler tractor or similar equipment up and down the slope).

C. Application of lime and fertilizer shall be performed based on soil tests and the revegetation requirements in the approved reclamation plan.

D. Vegetation shall be planted or seeded and mulched according to the mixtures and practices included in the approved reclamation plan.

E. The seed used must meet the purity and germination requirements of the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. The division may, at its discretion, take samples for laboratory testing. Noncritical vegetated areas shall achieve adequate cover so that no areas larger than one-half acre shall exist with less than 75% cover after two growing seasons. Seeded portions of critical areas shall have adequate vegetative cover so the area is completely stabilized.

Historical Notes

Derived from Volume 19, Issue 24, eff. September 11, 2003; amended, Virginia Register Volume 30, Issue 06, eff. December 19, 2013.

Statutory Authority

§§ 45.1-161.3 and 45.1-180.3 of the Code of Virginia.