Current through Register Vol. 54, No. 25, June 22, 2024
Section 89.85 - Topsoil use(a) After final grading, and prior to placing of topsoil or other material, regraded land shall be scarified or otherwise treated as required to eliminate slippage-surfaces and to promote root penetration. If no harm will be caused to the topsoil and vegetation, scarification may be conducted after topsoil is applied.(b) Topsoil and other materials shall be placed in a manner that:(1) Achieves an approximate uniform, stable thickness consistent with the postmining land uses, slopes and surface drainage system.(2) Prevents excess compaction of the topsoil and other materials.(3) Protects the topsoil and other materials from wind and water erosion before and after it is seeded and planted.(c) Nutrients and soil amendments in the amounts determined by soil tests shall be applied to the redistributed surface soil layer so that it supports the approved postmining land use and meets the revegetation requirements of § 89.86 (relating to revegetation). Soil tests shall be performed by a qualified laboratory using standard methods approved by the Department.The provisions of this § 89.85 adopted December 19, 1980, 10 Pa.B. 4789, effective 7/31/1982, 12 Pa.B. 2382; amended July 30, 1982, 12 Pa.B. 2473, effective 7/31/1982, 12 Pa.B. 2382. This section cited in 25 Pa. Code § 89.22 (relating to topsoil removal and storage); 25 Pa. Code § 89.23 (relating to diversion and conveyance of overland flow); 25 Pa. Code § 89.56 (relating to stream channel diversions); 25 Pa. Code § 89.90 (relating to restoration of roads); and 25 Pa. Code § 89.173 (relating to performance standards).