Current through Register Vol. 54, No. 25, June 22, 2024
Section 88.118 - Backfilling and grading: final slopes(a) The final graded slopes shall approximate premining slopes, or slopes approved by the Department based on consideration of soil, rock formation, climate or other characteristics of the surrounding area.(b) Postmining final graded slopes need not be uniform but shall approximate the general nature of the premining topography.(c) Cut and fill terraces may be allowed on approval by the Department to conserve soil moisture, ensure stability and control erosion on final graded slopes, if the terraces are compatible with the approved postmining land use and are substitutes for construction of lower grades on the reclaimed lands.(d) Small depressions may be constructed, if they: (1) Are approved by the Department to minimize erosion, conserve soil moisture or promote vegetation.(2) Do not restrict normal access.(3) Are not inappropriate substitutes for lower grades on the reclaimed lands.(e) All surface mining activities on slopes above 20°, or on lesser slopes that the Department defines as steep slopes, shall meet the appropriate provisions.(f) All final grading, preparation of overburden before replacement of soil or suitable vegetation support material shall be conducted in a manner which minimizes erosion and provides a surface for replacement of soil which will minimize slippage.The provisions of this § 88.118 adopted December 19, 1980, 10 Pa.B. 4789, effective 7/31/1982, 12 Pa.B. 2382; amended March 30, 1984, 14 Pa.B. 1143, effective 8/10/1985, 15 Pa.B. 2872; amended May 8, 1998, effective 5/9/1998, 28 Pa.B. 2227. This section cited in 25 Pa. Code § 88.381 (relating to general requirements); and 25 Pa. Code § 88.493 (relating to minimum environmental protection performance standards).