Md. Code Regs. 26.21.01.11

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 22, November 1, 2024

Section 26.21.01.11 - Topsoil

A. The permittee shall remove, segregate, and stockpile topsoil on-site for reclamation unless the Department approves the removal from the site in the permit.

B. The permittee shall protect stockpiled topsoil in accordance with the approved mining and reclamation plan by a vegetative cover or by other methods demonstrated to provide protection, including but not limited to, chemical binders and mulching.

C. After the final grade has been completed in accordance with the approved mining and reclamation plan, but before the topsoil is replaced, the permittee shall disk or scarify the land to a depth of 2 inches to promote root penetration.

D. The permittee shall distribute topsoil in accordance with the approved mining and reclamation plan in a manner which:

(1) Achieves an approximate uniform thickness;

(2) Prevents excessive compaction of subsoil;

(3) Protects it from erosion before it is seeded.

E. Topsoil may not be placed while in a frozen or muddy condition, when the subgrade is excessively wet, or while in a condition that would otherwise be detrimental to proper grading.

F. If topsoil was not conserved during mining or if there is an insufficient quantity of topsoil, the permittee shall upgrade the remaining native materials by the application of soil conditioners, mulches, or imported topsoil.

Md. Code Regs. 26.21.01.11