Pitch Mine Reclamation
Meridiam Partners was contracted to perform several reclamation activities at the Pitch Mine near Sargents, Colorado.
Upper Quarry Reclamation
The upper quarry at the Pitch mine site was used to source rock for various construction projects around the site. It was used one last time to obtain riprap material for the Tie Camp and Indian Creek Diversions project and then was reclaimed for closure. The reclamation of the site included grading the site to allow for stable slope, creating necessary channels for drainage, placing growth media, and finally seeding with hydro mulch. The total area reclaimed was approximately three acres.
Tie Camp and Indian Creek Diversions
The Tie Camp and Indian Creek diversions were designed to bypass the existing corrugated metal pipes. The construction of the new drainage consisted of a lined riprap channel, culverts, and plunge pools. The new drainage system measures 4,900 feet in total length with an elevation drop of almost 300 feet.
Other miscellaneous reclamation activities included:
- Demolition of a water treatment plant.
- Fill-in of a one-acre area of the Indian Rock Dump that was ponding.
- Regrading and reseeding of three acres of two material stockpiles.
- Revegetation of 12 acres of the south pit slide area.