Appendix Appendix B 

Appendix B 

Minerals 

Historic Mineral Activity and Mineral Potential Historic Mineral Activity and Mineral Potential 

Historic Mineral Activity in the Upper Deschutes Planning Area Historic Mineral Activity in the Upper Deschutes Planning Area 

Locatable Minerals Locatable Minerals 

Locatable minerals are those minerals for which mining claims can be located, such as 

precious and base metals, and some nonmetallic minerals that possess unique properties 

(uncommon variety minerals). Exploration for locatable minerals in the Upper Deschutes 

planning area has been sporadic. Presently, there are 26 mining claims and 7 mill site 

claims within the planning area and two notices have been filed under the BLM Surface 

Management Regulations (43 CFR 3809). 

Bear Creek BuĴe 

Minor amounts of mercury have been produced from the Clarno Formation in the 

southeastern part of the planning area. Prospecting began in the late 1920s and by the 

late 1950s, the US Bureau of Mines had recorded a total of 30 flasks of mercury from the 

Platner and Oronogo mines, though the actual output was probably larger (Brooks, 1963). as probably larger (Brooks, 1963). 

Terrebonne errebonne 

Diatomite was mined on private land a few miles west of Terrebonne in the 1950s and 

continued until the reserves were depleted (Orr and others, 1992). There are 20 diatomite 

claims on adjoining public lands but no notice or plan level operations are occurring. el operations are occurring. 

Leasable Minerals Leasable Minerals 

Leasable minerals are those minerals for which a person must obtain a lease from the 

Federal government in order to produce the mineral. Generally, leasable minerals include 

deposits that occur over large areas, such as the energy minerals—oil and gas, coal, and 

geothermal resources. Lake bed evaporite minerals such as sodium and potassium are 

also leasable. Owing to the prevalence of volcanic and volcaniclastic sedimentary rocks 

in the planning area, coal, coal bed methane, oil shale and tar sands and considered to be 

absent from the planning area and will not be addressed. Currently, no areas within the 

planning area are leased and no exploration is occurring. This situation could change as 

technology improves or if energy prices rise dramatically. 

Oil and Gas Oil and Gas 

Minimal oil and gas exploration has occurred historically in the planning area. Minimal oil and gas exploration has occurred historically in the planning area. 

Geothermal Geothermal 

There is a geothermal anomaly within the planning area in the vicinity of Powell BuĴes 

that was investigated by Brown and others, (1980). Their work indicates a potential 

for boiling-temperature fluids at a depth of about 1000 meters. More geophysical 

exploration and deep drilling are required to prove the existence of an economically 

viable geothermal system. viable geothermal system. 

Salable Minerals Salable Minerals 

Salable minerals are common variety minerals such as sand, gravel, rock, and cinders 

that generally are purchased from the Federal government. Over the past 10 years, nearly 

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1,000,000 cubic yards of sand, gravel, and rock have been produced from quarries and 

 

Upper Deschutes Record of Decision and Resource Management Plan ce Management Plan 

pits for construction and maintenance of county roads and state highways. Sales of sand 

and gravel to individuals have averaged about 2,500 cubic yards per year. During the 

same period of time, cinder production has varied from about 200 to 1,000 cubic yards 

per year (mostly for use on county roads). TheĞ of slab lava (a decorative stone) has been 

a problem in the Cline BuĴes area for many years. Over the past 5–8 years, the demand 

for decorative stone has gone from a few to several hundred tons per a year. 

Mineral Potential Mineral Potential 

Classification 

The mineral potential classification system, as described in BLM Manual 3031, Illustration 

3, is used to evaluate the potential for locatable, leasable, and salable minerals in the 

resource area. Potential refers to the potential for occurrence of specific mineral resources 

rather than their economic viability. 

Level of Potential otential 

O. ~ The geologic environment, the inferred geologic processes, and the lack of mineral 

occurrences do not indicate potential for accumulation of mineral resources. occurrences do not indicate potential for accumulation of mineral resources. 

L. ~ The geologic environment and the inferred geologic processes indicate low potential 

for accumulation of mineral resources. for accumulation of mineral resources. 

M. ~ The geologic environment, the inferred geologic processes, and the reported mineral 

occurrences or valid geochemical/geophysical anomaly indicate moderate potential for 

accumulation of mineral resources. accumulation of mineral resources. 

H. ~ The geologic environment, the inferred geologic processes, the reported mineral 

occurrences and/or valid geochemical/geophysical anomaly, and the known mines or 

deposits indicate high potential for accumulation of mineral resources. The “known 

mines and deposits” do not have to be within the area that is being classified but have to 

be within the same type of geologic environment. be within the same type of geologic environment. 

ND. ~ Mineral(s) potential not determined due to lack of useful data. This notation does 

not require a level-of-certainty qualifier. 

Level of Certainty Level of Certainty 

A. ~ The available data are insufficient and/or cannot be considered as direct or indirect 

evidence to support or refute the possible existence of mineral resources within the 

respective area. e area. 

B. ~ The available data provide indirect evidence to support or refute the possible 

existence of mineral resources. existence of mineral resources. 

C. ~ The available data provide direct evidence but are quantitatively minimal to support 

or refute the possible existence of mineral resources. or refute the possible existence of mineral resources. 

D. ~ The available data provide abundant direct and indirect evidence to support or 

refute the possible existence of mineral resources. refute the possible existence of mineral resources. 

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Appendix Appendix B 

Mineral Potential in the Planning Area Mineral Potential in the Planning Area 

No areas of critical mineral potential exist in the planning area. The potential for energy 

derived from the burning of biomass generated by juniper treatments is covered in the 

Vegetation sections. egetation sections. 

Locatable Minerals Locatable Minerals 

Map S-201 displays the areas of varying potential for locatable minerals. The mineral 

potential areas were developed from known geologic seĴings, inferred geologic 

processes, current and historical mining activity, and extrapolation of known mineral 

deposits or mineralization into areas of similar geologic seĴing. 

Base and Precious Metals recious Metals 

There is a high potential (H-C) for the occurrence mercury in the southeast part of the 

planning area near Bear Creek BuĴe based on historical production and the proven 

existence of cinnabar mineralization (Brooks, 1963). However, the deposits tend to be 

localized and small and there is no direct evidence to suggest the presence of large scale 

cinnabar deposits. The northeastern part of the planning area has a moderate potential 

(M-B) for some base and precious metals due to the occurrence of such materials 

elsewhere in the John Day and Clarno Formations. elsewhere in the John Day and Clarno Formations. 

Diatomite is an accumulation of microscopic siliceous skeletons of aquatic plants 

(diatoms) that proliferate in shallow, silica-rich lake water. In the resource area, diatomite 

occurs about 5 miles east of Terrebonne in a late Miocene or early Pliocene lake bed (Orr 

and others, 1992). Based on the known occurrence of diatomite on private lands, a high 

potential (H-C) for the existence of diatomite is inferred for adjoining BLM administered 

lands. 

Leasable Minerals Leasable Minerals 

Oil and Gas Oil and Gas 

No oil or gas has been discovered within the planning area and exploration has been 

minimal. The central and western parts of the planning area have a low potential for 

oil and gas (L-B) because of the predominantly young volcanic geology (Map S-18, 

Oil and Gas Potential). The eastern part of the planning area where the John Day and 

Clarno formations crop out, there is a moderate potential (M-B). Oil and gas have been 

discovered in or below these formations northeast of the planning area near the John Day 

River. 

Geothermal Energy Geothermal Energy 

The central and western parts of the planning area are considered to have a moderate 

(M-B) geothermal potential owing to the young volcanic geology and the area’s proximity 

to the Cascade Volcanoes and Newberry Caldera (Map S-13, Geothermal Potential). 

There is a geothermal anomaly within the planning area in the vicinity of Powell BuĴes 

that was investigated by Brown and others, (1980). Their work indicates a potential for 

boiling-temperature fluids at a depth of about 1000 meters and more work is required 

to prove the existence of an economically viable geothermal system. Based on this 

information, the Powell BuĴes area is considered to have a high (H-C) potential for 

geothermal development. elopment. 

Salable Minerals Salable Minerals 

Common variety mineral materials such as sand, gravel, rock, and cinders may be 

purchased or acquired by free use permits from the BLM. Most of the planning area has 

1 All Maps with an S prefix before a number are support maps available on a CD that includes the ROD/RMP, maps printed with the ROD/ 

RMP, and support maps that document conditions within the planning area during the development of the plan. elopment of the plan. 

199 
a moderate potential for the occurrence of mineral materials (Map S21, Mineral Material 

 

Upper Deschutes Record of Decision and Resource Management Plan ce Management Plan 

Potential). The high potential areas are in and around existing mineral material sites. 

Most of the high potential areas occur in areas with cinder cones, alluvial deposits of 

sand and gravel (La Pine area) and volcanic rock outcrops known to have a sufficient 

quality for utilization in asphalt. The Badlands basalt flow also has a high potential for 

mineral materials in the form of ropy slab lava. However, the collection of slab lava in 

the Badlands the Badlands ACEC/WSA will not be allow will not be allowed. 

Mineral Development Scenarios Mineral Development Scenarios 

Introduction Introduction 

This appendix describes the reasonable foreseeable development scenarios for 

development of leasable, locatable, and salable mineral commodities. The purpose of 

the reasonably foreseeable development scenario is to provide a model that predicts the 

level and type of future mineral activity in the planning area, and will serve as a basis 

for cumulative impact analysis. The reasonably foreseeable development first describes 

the steps involved in developing a mineral deposit, with presentation of hypothetical 

exploration and mining operations. The current activity levels are discussed in Chapter 2 

of this document. Future trends and assumptions affecting mineral activity are discussed 

here, followed by the prediction and identification of anticipated mineral exploration and 

development. elopment. 

Scope 

The development scenarios are limited in scope to BLM administered lands within 

the planning area. The reasonable foreseeable development is based on the known or 

inferred mineral resource capabilities of the lands involved, and applies the conditions 

and assumptions discussed under Future Trends and Assumptions. Changes in available 

geologic data and/or economic conditions would alter the reasonable foreseeable 

development, and some deviation is to be expected over time. er time. 

Leasable Mineral Resources Leasable Mineral Resources 

Reasonably Foreseeable Development of Oil and Gas Reasonably Foreseeable Development of Oil and Gas 

Future Trends and Assumptions Future Trends and Assumptions 

Based on the history of past drilling and foreseeable development potential in the 

planning area, activity over the next 15–20 years would continue to be sporadic. It is 

anticipated that oil and gas activity would consist of the issuance of a few leases, a few 

geophysical surveys, and perhaps the drilling of one or two exploratory holes. This could 

occur almost anywhere in the district, but more likely would occur in the eastern part of 

the planning area. the planning area. 

Because of the low potential for development of hydrocarbons, (even though the 

potential for occurrence is moderate in some areas), the discovery of a producible oil 

and gas field during this planning cycle is not expected. However, to comply with 

the Supplemental Program Guidance for Fluid Minerals (Manual Section 1624.2), the 

potential surface impacts associated with the discovery and development of a small oil/ 

gas field are given in the following sections. en in the following sections. 

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Appendix Appendix B 

Geophysical Exploration Geophysical Exploration 

Geophysical exploration is conducted to determine the subsurface structure of an 

area. Three geophysical survey techniques are generally used to define subsurface 

characteristics through measurements of the gravitational field, magnetic field, and 

seismic reflections. ections. 

Gravity and magnetic field surveys involve small portable measuring units which are 

easily transported via light off-road vehicles, such as four-wheel drive pickups and 

jeeps, or aircraĞ. Both off-road and on-road travel may be necessary in these two types 

of surveys. Usually a three man crew transported by one or two vehicles is required. 

Sometimes small holes (approximately 1 inch by 2 inches by 2 inches) are hand dug for 

instrument placement at the survey measurement points. These two survey methods can 

make measurements along defined lines, but it is more common to have a grid of discrete 

measurement stations. measurement stations. 

Seismic reflection surveys are the most common of the geophysical methods, and they 

produce the most detailed subsurface information. Seismic surveys are conducted by 

sending shock waves, generated by a small explosion or through mechanically beating 

the ground surface with a thumping or vibrating platform, through the earth’s surface. 

The thumper and vibrator methods pound or vibrate the ground surface to create a shock 

wave. Usually four large trucks are used, each equipped with pads about 4-foot square. 

The pads are lowered to the ground, and the vibrators are electronically triggered from 

the recording truck. Once information is recorded, the trucks move forward a short 

distance and the process is repeated. Less than 50 square feet of surface area is required 

to operate the equipment at each recording site. to operate the equipment at each recording site. 

The small explosive method requires that charges be detonated on the surface or in a 

drill hole. Holes for the charges are drilled utilizing truck-mounted or portable air drills 

to drill small-diameter (2–6 inches) holes to depths of 100–200 feet. Generally 4–12 holes 

are drilled per mile of line and a 5–50-pound charge of explosives is placed in the hole, 

covered, and detonated. The resulting shock wave is recorded by geophones placed in a 

linear fashion on the surface. In rugged terrain, a portable drill carried by helicopter can 

sometimes be used. A typical drilling seismic operation may utilize 10–15 men operating 

5–7 trucks. Under normal conditions, 3–5 miles of line can be surveyed daily using this 

method. The vehicles used for a drilling program may include heavy truck mounted drill 

rigs, track-mounted air rigs, water trucks, a computer recording truck, and several light 

pickups for the surveyors, shot hole crew, geophone crew, permit man, and party chief. , permit man, and party chief. 

Public and private roads and trails are used where possible. However, off-road crosscountry travel is also necessary in some cases. Graders and dozers may be required to 

provide access to remote areas. Several trips a day are made along a seismograph line, 

usually resulting in a well defined 2-track trail. Drilling water, when needed, is usually 

obtained from private landowners. ate landowners. 

The surface charge method utilizes 1–5-pound charges aĴached to wooden laths 3–8 feet 

above the ground. Placing the charges lower than 6 feet usually results in the destruction 

of vegetation, while placing the charges higher, or on the surface of deep snow, results in 

liĴle visible surface disturbance. le visible surface disturbance. 

It is anticipated that 2 notices of intent involving seismic reflection and gravity/magnetic 

field surveys will be filed. 

Drilling Phase Drilling Phase 

Once the application for a permit to drill is approved, the operator may begin 

construction activities in accordance with stipulations and conditions. When a site 

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is chosen that necessitates the construction of an access road, the length of road may 

vary, but usually the shortest feasible route is selected to reduce the haul distance and 

construction costs. Environmental factors or a landowner’s wishes may dictate a longer 

route in some cases. Drilling activity in the planning area is predicted to be done using 

existing roads and constructing short (approximately 0.25 mile) roads to access drill site 

locations. locations. 

Based on the history of past drilling and the low to moderate potential for oil and gas, 

exploration will probably continue to be sporadic. During the life of this plan, 1-2 

exploratory wells for oil and gas are expected to be drilled in the eastern part of the 

planning area where the potential is moderate. The success rate of finding oil or gas is 

predicted to be no greater than 10% based on the average exploratory well success rate in 

the U.S. the U.S. 

During the first phase of drilling, the operator would move construction equipment 

over existing maintained roads to the point where the access road begins. No more than 

0.25 mile of moderate duty access road with a cinder or gravel surface 18 to 20 feet wide 

is anticipated to be constructed. The total surface disturbance width would average 40 

feet with ditches, cuts, and fill. The second part of the drilling phase is the construction 

of the drilling pad or platform. The likely duration of well development, testing, and 

abandonment is predicted to be less than 12 months per drill site. The total disturbance 

for each exploratory well and any new road constructed to the drill site is expected to be 

up to 6 acres. Thus, the total surface disturbance caused by exploratory drilling over the 

life of the plan is expected to be up to12 acres. life of the plan is expected to be up to12 acres. 

Field Development and Production roduction 

No field development is expected to occur during the life of the plan. However, the 

following scenario describes operations and impacts associated with field development 

and production. and production. 

Small deposits of oil or gas discovered in the planning area would probably not be 

economic to develop. The minimum size that would be economic would be a field 

containing reserves of 50–60 billion cubic feet (BCF) of gas with a productive lifespan of 

10 years. The total area of such a field would be 200 acres with the array of development 

wells spanning 160 acres. The field would require four development wells in addition to 

the discovery well. Each development would require 0.25 miles of road. Development 

well access roads would be cinder or gravel surfaced and would have a width of about 20 

feet. The width of the surface disturbance associated with roads would average 40 feet. 

Produced gas would be carried by pipelines over a distance of 30 to 60 miles. The width 

of surface disturbance for pipelines would average 30 feet. Any produced oil would be 

trucked to refineries outside of Oregon. neries outside of Oregon. 

For development of a single 50-60 BCF field, the total surface disturbance would be 8 

acres for well pads, 5 acres for roads, 13 acres for field development and up to 600 acres 

for pipelines. The total surface disturbance caused by 1-2 exploration wells and the 

development of one oil/gas field over the life of the plan would be up to 650 acres. ould be up to 650 acres. 

Plugging and Abandonment Plugging and Abandonment 

Wells that are completed as dry holes are plugged according to a plan designed 

specifically for the downhole conditions of each well. Plugging is accomplished by the 

placing of cement plugs at strategic locations downhole and up to the surface. Drilling 

mud is used as a spacer between plugs to prevent communication between fluid bearing 

zones. The casing is cut off at least 3 feet below ground level and capped by welding 

a steel plate on the casing stub. AĞer plugging, all equipment and debris would be 

removed and the site would be restored as near as reasonably possible to its original 

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Appendix Appendix B 

condition. It predicted that the 1-2 exploratory wells drilled would be plugged and 

abandoned. abandoned. 

Reasonably Foreseeable Exploration and Development of Geothermal

Resources Resources 

Future Trends and Assumptions rends and Assumptions 

With environmental protection and enhancement being a major consideration in the 

Pacific Northwest, clean, low-impacting energy sources are becoming more important. 

The abundant geothermal resources thought to be present in the Northwest are 

essentially undeveloped. As the demand for environmentally-friendly energy sources 

increases, the known geothermal resource in the Powell BuĴes area would likely aĴract 

renewed aĴention. ention. 

Geophysical/Geochemical Exploration Geophysical/Geochemical Exploration 

As with oil and gas, geothermal geophysical operations can take place on leased 

or unleased public land. Depending upon the status of the land (leased/unleased), 

the status of the applicant (lessee/nonlessee), and the type of geophysical operation 

proposed, (drilling/nondrilling), several types of authorizations can be used if the 

proposed exploration exceeds “casual use,” as defined in 43 CFR 3200.1. In all cases, the 

authorizations require compliance with NEPA and approval by the authorized officer. As 

with oil and gas, the operator is required to comply with all terms and conditions of the 

permits, regulations, and other requirements, including reclamation, prescribed by the 

authorized officer. Monitoring for compliance with these requirements would be done 

during the execution of the operations and upon completion. during the execution of the operations and upon completion. 

In addition to the geophysical methods discussed in the Oil and Gas section, the 

following exploration techniques are oĞen employed in geothermal prospecting: ed in geothermal prospecting: 

Microseismic: Small seismometers are buried at a shallow depth (hand-dug holes) and 

transmit signals from naturally-occurring, extremely minor seismic activity (microearthquakes) to an amplifier on the surface. Stations are located away from roads to 

avoid traffic “noise.” These units are oĞen backpacked into areas inaccessible to vehicles. ehicles. 

Resistivity: Induced polarization techniques are used to measure the resistance of 

subsurface rocks to the passage of an electric current. A vehicle-mounted transmiĴer 

sends pulses of electrical current into the ground through two widely spaced electrodes 

(usually about two miles apart). The behavior of these electrical pulses as they travel 

through underlying rocks is recorded by “pots” (potential electrodes), small ceramic 

devices that receive the current at different locations. The electrodes are either short 

(2–3 feet) rods driven into the ground, or aluminum foil shallowly buried over an area 

of several square feet. Two or three small trucks transport the crew of 3–5 people to 

transmiĴing and receiving sites. ing and receiving sites. 

Telluric: A string of “pots” record the variations in the natural electrical currents in 

the earth. No transmiĴer is required. Small trucks are used to transport the crew and 

equipment. equipment. 

Radiometric: Radioactive emissions (generally radon gas) associated with geothermal 

resources are usually measured using a hand-held scintillometer, oĞen at hot spring 

locations. Another method used involves placing plastic cups containing small detector 

strips sensitive to alpha radiation either on the surface or in shallow hand-dug holes. If 

holes are dug, they are covered, and the cups leĞ in place for 3–4 weeks. At the end of the 

sampling period, the cups are retrieved and all holes are backfilled. These surveys can be 

conducted on-foot or with the aid of light vehicles. ehicles. 

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Geochemical Surveys: Geochemical surveys are usually conducted at hot springs by 

taking water samples directly from the spring. Sampling for mercury associated with 

geothermal resources is oĞen done by taking soil samples using hand tools. These 

surveys can be conducted on-foot or with the aid of light vehicles. ehicles. 

Temperature Gradient Drill Hole Surveys: Temperature gradient holes are used to 

determine the rate of change of temperature with respect to depth. Temperature gradient 

holes usually vary in diameter from about 3.5 to 4.5 inches, and from a few hundred 

feet to about 5,000 feet in depth. They are drilled using rotary or coring methods. 

Approximately 0.1 to 0.25 acre per drill hole would be disturbed. A typical drill site 

could contain the drill rig, most likely truck-mounted, water tank(s), fuel tank, supply 

trailer, and a small trailer for the workers. Drilling mud and fluids would be contained 

in earthen pits or steel tanks. Water for drilling would be hauled in water trucks, or if 

suitable water sources are close, could be piped directly to the site. Water consumption 

could range from about 2,000 to 6,000 gallons per day, with as much as 20,000 gallons per 

day under extreme lost circulation conditions. day under extreme lost circulation conditions. 

Other equipment that would be utilized includes large flatbed trucks to haul drill rod, 

casing, and other drilling supplies, and in some cases, special cementing and bulk 

cement trucks. Two or three small vehicles would be used for transporting workers. In 

most cases, existing roads would be used. It is estimated that short spur trails (usually 

less than a few hundred yards long) would be bladed for less than 10 percent of these 

holes. All holes would be plugged and abandoned to protect both surface and subsurface 

resources, including aquifers, and reclamation of disturbed areas would be required, 

unless some benefit to the public could be gained—for example, a water well or camping 

area. Depending upon the location and proposed depth of the drill hole, detailed plans 

of operation that cover drilling methods, casing and cementing programs, well control, 

and plugging and abandonment may be required. and plugging and abandonment may be required. 

Based the needed exploratory work identified by Brown and others (1980) to determine 

economic viability in the Powell BuĴes area, it is anticipated that notice(s) of intent will 

be filed to drill up to 20 temperature gradient holes in that area. led to drill up to 20 temperature gradient holes in that area. 

Drilling and Testing 

Drilling to determine the presence of, test, develop, produce, or inject geothermal 

resources can be done only on land covered by a geothermal resources lease. ered by a geothermal resources lease. 

A typical geothermal well drilling operation would require 2–4 acres for a well pad, 

including reserve pit, and 0.5 mile of moderate duty access road with a surface 18–20 

feet wide, totaling up to 40 feet wide with ditches, cuts, and fills. Existing roads would 

be used whenever possible. Total surface disturbance for each well, and any new road is 

expected to be no more than 6 acres. In some cases, more than one production well could 

be drilled from one pad. Well spacing would be determined by the authorized officer 

aĞer considering topography, reservoir characteristics, optimum number of wells for 

proposed use, protection of correlative rights, potential for well interference, interference 

with multiple use of lands, and protection of the surface and subsurface environment. 

Close coordination with the State would take place. It is anticipated that the duration 

of well development, testing, and if dry, abandonment, would be 4 months. Prior to 

abandonment, the operator would be required to plug the hole to prevent contamination 

of aquifers and any impacts to subsurface and surface resources. Plugging is 

accomplished by the placing of cement plugs at strategic locations downhole and up to 

the surface. Depending upon the formations encountered, drilling mud could be used 

as a spacer between plugs to prevent communication between fluid bearing zones. The 

casing is cut off at least 6 feet below ground level and capped by welding a steel plate on 

the casing stub. AĞer plugging, all equipment and debris would be removed, and the 

site would be restored as near as reasonably possible to its original condition. A dry hole 

204 
Appendix Appendix B 

marker is oĞen placed at the surface to identify the well location. If the surface owner 

prefers, the marker may be buried. Any new roads not needed for other purposes would 

be reclaimed. be reclaimed. 

It is estimated that 4–6 exploratory wells will be drilled. ells will be drilled. 

Geothermal Power Plant Development ower Plant Development 

Although not expected, a 24-megawaĴ power plant could be constructed within the 

Powell BuĴes area during the life of this plan. It is anticipated that the developed 

geothermal resource would be water dominated and that the geothermal power 

conversion system would be either single or double flash, or binary cycle. Before 

geothermal development could occur, site-specific baseline studies and environmental 

analyses, with public involvement, would be done. The scenario below describes the level 

of disturbance that would likely occur from the development of a 24 megawaĴ power 

plant: Five to seven production wells and one or two injection wells would be drilled. 

It is anticipated that access would be provided by existing roads, and the construction 

of short (0.5 to 1-mile long) roads with a surface of 18 to 20 feet wide, totaling up to 

40 feet wide with ditches, cuts, and fills. Surface disturbance from well pad and road 

construction would probably range from 2 to 6 acres per well. The power plant facility, 

including separators, energy converters, turbines, generators, condensers, cooling towers, 

and switchyard, would involve an estimated 5 to 10 acres. Pipelines and power lines 

would disturb an additional 3 to 6 acres. If a water cooling system is employed, one to 

three water wells, requiring about 0.25 acre per well, would be drilled, unless the cooling 

water was obtained from the geothermal steam condensate. Depending upon location, 

terrain, geothermal reservoir characteristics, and type of generating facility, total surface 

disturbance for a 24 megawaĴ (gross) geothermal power plant, and ancillary structures, 

would probably range from about 25 to 75 acres, or about 1 to 3 acres per megawaĴ. 

AĞer construction, approximately one-third to one-half of the disturbed area would 

be revegetated. Prior to abandonment, 30–50 years later, the remaining disturbed area 

would be reclaimed. ould be reclaimed. 

Direct Use of Geothermal Energy Direct Use of Geothermal Energy 

Low- and moderate-temperature (50–300 degrees F) geothermal resources have many 

direct use applications. Direct applications and potential development scenarios include 

space heating and cooling of residences and businesses, applications in agriculture, 

aquaculture, and industry, and recreational and therapeutical bathing. Depending upon 

the type of use and magnitude of the operation, surface disturbance could range from 

a few acres for a well and greenhouses or food processing facilities to tens of acres for 

larger agricultural or aquacultural developments. It is anticipated that two wells would 

be drilled to heat one greenhouse operation or some of the residential areas near Powell 

BuĴes during the life of this plan. es during the life of this plan. 

Locatable Mineral Resources Locatable Mineral Resources 

Reasonably Foreseeable Exploration and Development Scenarios Reasonably Foreseeable Exploration and Development Scenarios 

Future Trends and Assumptions Future Trends and Assumptions 

Reclamation science would continue to advance due to experience and research. More 

detailed design effort would be placed on the reclamation of mined lands in the future. 

This would result in an overall increase in reclamation costs but those costs would pay 

dividends in the long-term with increased reclamation success. dividends in the long-term with increased reclamation success. 

The economics of mining in the planning area would be driven by the relationship 

between production costs and the market price of the commodity. While production 

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Upper Deschutes Record of Decision and Resource Management Plan ce Management Plan 

costs can be controlled or anticipated through management and technology, the price of 

mineral commodities (especially of gold) could vary widely. The overall profitability of 

an operation (and hence the level of activity at the prospecting, exploration, and mining 

phases for development of ore bodies) would be closely related to the price of the mineral 

commodity. 

No chemical heap-leaching operations are forecasted during the plan period. If such an 

operation is proposed during the life of the plan, it would be subjected to environmental 

review under a plan of operations pursuant to regulations found in 43 CFR 3809. 

Casual Use, Notices, Plans of Operations, Use and Occupancy Casual Use, Notices, Plans of Operations, Use and Occupancy 

There are 3 levels of use defined by the 43 CFR 3809 regulations—casual, notice, and 

plan of operations. Generally, casual use means activities resulting in negligible, if 

any, disturbance of public lands or resources. Mechanized earth-moving equipment or 

truck-mounted drills are not allowed under casual use. Notice-level operations involve 

surface-disturbing exploration operations of 5 acres or less. Casual use and notice-level 

operations do not involve Federal actions that require compliance with NEPA. A plan 

of operations is required for all non-exploration mining activity that is not casual use, 

regardless of the number of acres disturbed. A plan is also required for all exploration 

activities that disturb over 5 acres, bulk sampling which will remove 1,000 tons or 

more of presumed ore for testing, or for any surface-disturbing operations greater than 

casual use in certain SMAs and lands/waters that contain federally-proposed or listed 

T&E species or their proposed or designated critical habitat. The approval of plans of 

operation is a Federal action that requires NEPA compliance. Mining claim occupancy 

associated with notice- or plan-level operations, also requires compliance with NEPA. 

Details of plan of operations filing and processing requirements can be found in 43 CFR 

3809.400. Generally, plans must include a detailed description of all operations, including 

a map showing all areas to be disturbed by mining, processing, and access, all equipment 

that would be used, periods of use, and any necessary buildings or structures. A detailed 

reclamation plan to meet the standards found in 43 CFR 3809.420, and a monitoring 

plan to monitor the effect of operations are also required. An interim management plan 

showing how the project area would be managed during periods of temporary closure to 

prevent unnecessary and undue degradation must also be submiĴed. The operator also 

must submit a reclamation cost estimate. The BLM may require operational and baseline 

environmental information, and any other information, needed to ensure that operations 

will not cause unnecessary and undue degradation. will not cause unnecessary and undue degradation. 

When a plan of operations is received, BLM would review it to make sure that it is 

complete. Where necessary, the BLM would consult with the State to ensure operations 

would be consistent with State water quality requirements. In addition, the BLM would 

conduct any consultation required under the “National Historic Preservation Act” or 

“Endangered Species Act.” Onsite visits would be scheduled when necessary. BLM 

could require changes to the plan of operations to ensure that the performance standards 

found in 43 CFR 3809.420 would be met, and that no unnecessary or undue degradation 

of lands or resources would occur. In addition, site specific mitigating measures would 

be imposed when necessary. A financial guarantee covering the estimated cost of 

reclamation, as if BLM were to contract with a third-party, would have to be provided 

before operations could begin. The financial guarantee would have to be sufficient not 

only to cover costs of reclamation, but also costs associated with interim stabilization and 

compliance with Federal, state, and local environmental requirements while third-party 

contracts would be developed and executed. eloped and executed. 

BLM approval is necessary to occupy public land for more than 14 calendar days in 

any 90-day period within a 25-mile radius of the initially occupied site. Details for the 

submiĴal and approval of use and occupancy are contained in 43 CFR 3710. As defined 

206 
Appendix Appendix B 

in these regulations, occupancy means full or part-time residence on the public lands. It 

also means activities that involve residence; the construction, presence, or maintenance 

of temporary or permanent structures that may be used for such purposes; or the use of a 

watchman or caretaker for the purpose of monitoring activities. Residence or structures 

include, but are not limited to, tents, motor homes, trailers, campers, cabins, houses, 

buildings, and storage of equipment or supplies. Also included are fences, gates, and 

signs intended to restrict public access. signs intended to restrict public access. 

Permanent structure means a structure fixed to the ground by any of the various types of 

foundations, slabs, piers, or poles, or other means allowed by building codes. The term 

also includes a structure placed on the ground that lacks foundations, slabs, piers, or 

poles, and that can only be moved through disassembly into its component parts or by 

techniques commonly used in house moving. The term does not apply to tents or leantos. 

The disposal of sewage and gray-water would be subject to the rules and regulations of 

the ODEQ. The disposal of garbage and other debris would be subject to all appropriate 

local, state, and Federal rules and regulations. Likewise, the drilling of any water wells 

would be subject to all ODWR requirements. Permanent structures would be subject 

to all state and county permiĴing. Copies of all required local and state approvals and 

permits would be filed with the BLM prior to allowing any occupancy. 

Background on the Development of a Locatable Minerals Mine Background on the Development of a Locatable Minerals Mine 

The development of a mine from exploration to production can be divided into four 

stages. Each stage requires the application of more discriminating (and more expensive) 

techniques over a successively smaller land area to identify, develop, and produce an 

economic mineral deposit. A full sequence of developing a mineral project involves 

reconnaissance, prospecting, exploration, and mine development. elopment. 

Reconnaissance: Reconnaissance-level activity is the first stage in exploring for a 

mineral deposit. This activity involves initial literature search of an area of interest, 

using available references such as publications, reports, maps, aerial photos, etc. The 

area of study can vary from hundreds to thousands of square miles. Activity that would 

normally take place includes large scale mapping, regional geochemical and geophysical 

studies, and remote sensing with aerial photography or satellite imagery. These studies 

are usually undertaken by academic or government entities, or major corporations. 

The type of surface-disturbing activity associated with reconnaissance-level mineral 

inventory is usually no more than occasional stream sediment, soil, and rock sampling. 

Minor off-road vehicle use could be required. ehicle use could be required. 

Prospecting: A prospecting area is identified when reconnaissance reveals anomalous 

geochemical or geophysical readings, a unique geologic structure or feature, or the 

occurrence of typical mineral bearing formations. Historical references to mineralization 

can also lead to the identification of a prospecting area. This area could range from a 

single square mile to an entire mountain range of several hundred square miles. eral hundred square miles. 

Activity that would take place in an effort to locate a mineral prospect includes more 

detailed mapping, sampling, geochemical and geophysical study programs. Also, this 

is the time when property acquisition efforts usually begin and most mining claims are 

located in order to secure ground while trying to make a mineral discovery. Prospecting 

on an annual basis is considered a minimum requirement under the mining laws to 

secure a claim. secure a claim. 

Types of surface disturbing activity associated with prospecting would involve more 

intense soil and rock chip sampling using mostly hand tools, frequent off-road vehicle 

use, and placement and maintenance of mining claim monuments. This activity is 

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normally considered “casual use” (43 CFR 3809.5) and does not require BLM notification 

or approval. 

Exploration: Upon location of a sufficiently anomalous mineral occurrence, or favorable 

occurrence indicator, a mineral prospect is established and is subjected to more intense 

evaluation through exploration techniques. Activities that take place during exploration 

include those utilized during prospecting but at a more intense level in a smaller area. In 

addition, activities such as road building, trenching, and drilling are conducted. In later 

stages of exploration, an exploratory adit or shaĞ may be driven. If the prospect already 

has underground workings these may be sampled, drilled, or extended. Exploration 

activities utilize mechanized earth-moving equipment, drill rigs, etc., and may involve 

the use of explosives. 

Typical exploration projects in the planning area could include: in-stream dredging 

with portable suction dredges, exploratory drilling which could include construction 

of new roads, use of explosives to sample rock outcroppings, and excavation of test 

pits. If the exploration project disturbs 5 acres or less, it is conducted under a notice (43 

CFR 3809.301) which requires the operator to notify BLM 15 days before beginning the 

activity. A copy of each notice received is sent to the Oregon Department of Geology 

and Mineral Industries (DOGAMI) for their review. If the project disturbs more than 5 

acres, it is conducted under a plan of operations (43 CFR 3809.401) and requires NEPA 

compliance before approval. 

Mine Development: If exploration results show that an economically viable mineral 

deposit is present, activity would intensify to obtain detailed knowledge regarding 

reserves, possible mining methods, and mineral processing requirements. This would 

involve applying all the previously utilized exploration tools in a more intense effort. 

Once enough information is acquired, a feasibility study would be made to decide 

whether to proceed with mine development and what mining and ore processing 

methods would be utilized. ould be utilized. 

Once the decision to develop the property is made, the mine permiĴing process begins. 

Upon approval, work begins on development of the mine infrastructure. This includes 

construction of the mill, offices, and laboratory; driving of development workings if the 

property is to be underground mined, or prestripping if it is to be open pit mined; and 

building of access roads or haulage routes, and placement of utility services. During this 

time additional refinement of ore reserves is made. es is made. 

Once enough facilities are in place, actual mine production begins. Concurrent with 

production there oĞen are “satellite” exploration efforts to expand the mine’s reserve 

base and extend the project life. Reclamation of the property is conducted concurrently 

with, or upon completion of, the mining operation. OĞen subeconomic resources remain 

unmined and the property is dormant, waiting for changes in commodity price or 

production technology that would make these resources economic. ould make these resources economic. 

Activities that occur on these lands include: actual mining, ore processing, tailings 

disposal, waste rock placement, solution processing, metal refining, and placement of 

support facilities such as repair shops, labs, and offices. Such activities involve the use 

of heavy earthmoving equipment and explosives for mining and materials handling, 

exploration equipment for refinement of the ore reserve base, hazardous or dangerous 

reagents for processing requirements, and general construction activities. reagents for processing requirements, and general construction activities. 

The size of mines varies greatly and not all mines would require all the previously 

mentioned facilities and equipment. Acreage involved can range from less than 5 acres 

to several hundred. Any mining that involves greater than casual use, regardless of the 

number of acres, requires the submiĴal of a plan of operations, and appropriate NEPA 

analysis, under 43 CFR 3809.401 and .411. 3809.401 and .411. 3809.401 and .411. 

208 
Appendix Appendix B 

Diatomite was mined by the open pit method a few miles west of Terrebonne in the 

1950s and continued until the reserves were depleted (Orr and others, 1992). Currently, 

there are 20 mining claims for diatomite on adjoining lands administered by the 

BLM. No notices or plans of operation have been filed for these claims. If diatomite is 

produced from adjacent BLM administered lands, up to several hundred acres of ground 

disturbance could result. However, such large scale developments of diatomite are not 

expected during the life of this plan. Any development for production would require a 

plan of operations and compliance with NEPA. 

Minor amounts of mercury have been produced from the Clarno Formation in the 

southeastern part of the planning area. Prospecting began in the late 1920s and by the 

late 1950s, the US Bureau of Mines had recorded 30 flasks of total mercury production 

from the Platner and Oronogo mines, though the actual output was probably larger 

(Brooks, 1963). No claims presently exist for mercury within the planning area. Any 

development for production would require a plan of operations and compliance with 

NEPA. 

Salable Mineral Resources Salable Mineral Resources 

Reasonably Foreseeable Exploration and Development Scenarios Reasonably Foreseeable Exploration and Development Scenarios 

Future Trends and Assumptions Future Trends and Assumptions 

It is assumed that the demand for mineral materials will continue to increase in 

conjunction with the population growth in central Oregon. The mineral material supply 

from existing private and public sources in the planning area appears to exceed the 

foreseeable demand over the next 20 years. However, based on the distribution of public 

and private ownership, ODOT is not able to consistently offer a public mineral material 

source for its construction projects in order to increase bidder competition (ODOT, 

1998). Owing to the existing supply and the distribution of ODOT’s prospective mineral 

material sites across the planning area, it is assumed that 3-4 new mineral material sites 

will be developed in the next 20 years. 

The development and reclamation of mineral material sites would be subject to the 

Guidelines for Development of Salable Mineral Materials section (in this elopment of Salable Mineral Materials section (in this Appendix). Appendix). 

Rock Quarry, Sand/Gravel/Cinder Pit Development Rock Quarry, Sand/Gravel/Cinder Pit Development 

Existing material sites disturb approximately 15–20 acres of land each. This acreage is 

necessary for the mine itself, rock crushing operations, truck-turn around areas, access 

trails for bulldozers and drills, overburden stockpile sites, and aggregate stockpile areas. 

For access to a new quarry site, approximately 0.5 acre of land would be disturbed by 

new road construction. new road construction. 

It is expected that the existing mineral materials sites in this area would be utilized 

intermiĴently throughout the planning period and that 3-4 new sites would be 

developed. Any development of a new site or expansion of an existing pit that causes 

surface disturbance beyond previously inventoried limits would require resource 

inventories, site-specific NEPA compliance, and dev compliance, and development and reclamation plans. elopment and reclamation plans. 

AĞer all useable material is removed from existing and future mineral material sites, 

reclamation work would be conducted according to an approved interdisciplinary 

plan. Upon depletion, reclamation work would be conducted on the material sites as 

well as on all unneeded access roads and trails. Oversized rock would be put back into 

the quarries or pits and where possible, cutslopes would be graded to conform to the 

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Upper Deschutes Record of Decision and Resource Management Plan ce Management Plan 

existing topography. Stockpiled topsoil would be spread over sideslopes and floors, and 

seeded as directed by BLM. Access roads and trails would be graded for proper drainage, 

scarified and seeded. ed and seeded. 

Decorative Stone Decorative Stone 

It is anticipated that the Prineville District Office would receive 10-20 sale requests 

per year for decorative stone, such as slab lava and ropy lava. At this time, there 

are no designated areas for which sales contracts or free use permits are issued for 

decorative stone; sales contracts and free use permits are only available for cinder and 

pit run gravel. However, one or more areas may be designated for decorative rock 

gathering during the life of this plan. Prior to designation and prior to any road or trail 

construction, appropriate inventories and NEPA compliance would be conducted to 

prevent unnecessary and undue degradation. Reclamation plans would be developed for 

any designated collecting areas and their access roads and trails. In most cases, existing 

roads would provide access to areas where the stone is scaĴered on the surface. In these 

areas, the rock would be hand-picked and loaded directly onto pick-ups or flatbed trucks, 

or onto pallets and then loaded onto trucks. There would be both on and off-road vehicle 

travel. There is a possibility that temporary road or trail construction could be necessary 

to gain access in some areas. to gain access in some areas. 

Stipulations and Guidelines for Mineral Operations
1

The following are mineral leasing stipulations, and guidelines for locatable and salable 

mineral operations. mineral operations. The special stipulations may be used on a site-specific basis. c basis. 

Leasing Stipulations Leasing Stipulations 

Standard Leasing Terms 

Standard leasing terms for oil and gas are listed in Section 6 of Offer to Lease and Lease 

for Oil and Gas Form 3100-11. They are: for Oil and Gas Form 3100-11. They are: 

Lessee shall conduct operations in a manner that minimizes adverse impacts to the 

land, air and water, to cultural, biological, visual and other resources, and to other 

land uses or users. Lessee shall take reasonable measures deemed necessary by 

lessor to accomplish the intent of this section. To the extent consistent with lease 

rights granted, such measures may include, but are not limited to, modification 

to citing or design of facilities, timing of operations, and specification of interim 

and final reclamation measures. Lessor reserves the right to continue existing uses 

and to authorize future uses upon or in the leased lands, including the approval 

of easements or rights-of-way. Such uses shall be conditioned so as to prevent 

unnecessary or unreasonable interference with rights of lessee. unnecessary or unreasonable interference with rights of lessee. 

Prior to disturbing the surface of the leased lands, lessee shall contact BLM to 

be apprised of procedures to be followed and modifications or reclamation 

measures that may be necessary. Areas to be disturbed may require inventories 

or special studies to determine the extent of impacts to other resources. Lessee 

may be required to complete minor inventories or short-term special studies 

under guidelines provided by lessor. If in the conduct of operations, T&E species, 

objects of historic or scientific interest, or substantial unanticipated environmental 

effects are observed, lessee shall immediately contact lessor. Lessee shall cease 

any operations that would result in the destruction of such species or objects until 

appropriate steps have been taken to protect the site or recover the resources as 

determined by BLM in consultation with other appropriate agencies. determined by BLM in consultation with other appropriate agencies. 

210 
 

 

 

 

 

Appendix Appendix B 

Standard terms for geothermal leasing can be found on Offer to Lease and Lease for 

Geothermal Resources (Form 3200-24), Section 6, and are very similar to those described 

above for oil and gas leasing. e for oil and gas leasing. 

Powersite Stipulation (Form No. 3730-1) is to be used on all lands within powersite 

reservations. ations. 

Special Leasing Stipulations Special Leasing Stipulations 

The following special stipulations are to be utilized on specifically designated tracts of 

land as described in the Resource Management Plan. land as described in the Resource Management Plan. 

Recreation, Motorized Travel, and Visual Resources ravel, and Visual Resources 

A 30-day public notice period may be required prior to exception, modification, or waiver 

of recreation, motorized travel, and visual resource stipulations. el, and visual resource stipulations. 

Resource – Designated recreation sites including, but not limited to campgrounds, 

OHV staging areas, and OHV play areas OHV staging areas, and OHV play areas 

• Stipulation: Surface occupancy and use is prohibited within developed recreation sites. eloped recreation sites. 

• Objective: Objective: To protect developed recreation sites. eloped recreation sites. 

• Exception: An exception to this stipulation may be granted by the authorized officer if 

the operator submits a plan demonstrating that impacts from the proposed action are 

acceptable or can be mitigated adequately. 

• Modification: The boundaries of the stipulated area may be modified by the authorized 

officer if the recreation site boundaries are changed. cer if the recreation site boundaries are changed. 

• Waiver: This stipulation may be waived if the authorized officer determines that the 

entire leasehold no longer contains designated recreation areas. entire leasehold no longer contains designated recreation areas. 

Resource – Motorized Travel 

• Stipulation: Access, travel, and drill site construction will be limited in areas where 

motorized use is restricted. Areas classified as limited to existing roads and trails or 

designated roads and trails will limit access for mining activities to just those roads 

that are open under the designation. Access will not be allowed in areas closed to 

motorized vehicle use. ehicle use. 

• Objective: To protect important scenic and wildlife resources, and to enhance primitive 

recreational opportunities. recreational opportunities. 

• Exception: An exception to this stipulation may be granted by the authorized officer 

if the operator submits a plan which demonstrates that impacts from the proposed 

action are acceptable or can be mitigated adequately. 

• Modification: The boundaries of the stipulated area may be modified if the authorized 

officer determines that portions of the area can be occupied without adversely 

affecting the resource values. 

• Waiver: This stipulation may be waived if the motorized vehicle closure is liĞed. A 30-

day public notice period will be required prior to exception, modification, or waiver of 

this stipulation. this stipulation. 

Resource – VRM Class I Resource – VRM Class I 

• Stipulation: Surface occupancy is prohibited in VRM Class I areas. Surface occupancy is prohibited in VRM Class I areas. 

• Objective: To preserve the existing character of the landscape. e the existing character of the landscape. 

• Exception: None 

• Modification: None 

• Waiver: None. No exceptions, modifications, or waivers may occur because all VRM 

Class I lands within the planning area are in WSAs, which are already closed to 

mineral leasing (43 CFR Subparts 3800.0-3 and 3201.11). Subparts 3800.0-3 and 3201.11). Subparts 3800.0-3 and 3201.11). 

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Resource – VRM Class II Resource – VRM Class II 

• Stipulation: All surface-disturbing activities, semi-permanent and permanent facilities 

in VRM Class II areas may require special design including location, painting and 

camouflage to blend with the natural surroundings and meet the visual quality 

objectives for the area. es for the area. 

• Objective: To control the visual impacts of activities and facilities within acceptable 

levels. 

• Exception: None. 

• Modification: None. 

• Waiver: This stipulation may be waived if the authorized officer determines that there 

are no longer VRM Class II areas in the leasehold. are no longer VRM Class II areas in the leasehold. 

Wildlife Wildlife 

Resource – Raptor nest sites including but not limited to Bald Eagle, Golden Eagle, 

Northern Goshawk, Coopers Hawk, and Great Grey Owl nests (see Table 1). able 1). 

• Stipulation: Surface occupancy and use is prohibited in the spatial buffers during the 

dates shown for each raptor species in Table 1. able 1. 

• Objective: Objective: To protect raptor nest sites. o protect raptor nest sites. 

• Exception: An exception may be granted by the authorized officer if the operator 

submits a plan which demonstrates that the proposed action will not adversely affect 

the bird or its nest site. the bird or its nest site. 

• Modification: The boundaries of the stipulated area may be modified if the authorized 

officer determines that a portion of the area can be occupied without adversely 

affecting the species or its nest site. ecting the species or its nest site. 

• Waiver: This stipulation may be waived if the authorized officer determines that there 

is no longer raptor nesting habitat on the leasehold. Consultation with the ODFW will 

be required prior to exception, modification, or waiver of this stipulation. er of this stipulation. 

Resource – Deer, elk, and pronghorn winter range , elk, and pronghorn winter range 

• Stipulation: Surface use is prohibited during the times listed in Table 1 within deer, 

elk, and pronghorn winter range. This stipulation does not apply to the operation or 

maintenance of production facilities. maintenance of production facilities. 

• Objective: To protect deer, elk, and pronghorn winter range from disturbance during 

the winter use season and to facilitate long-term maintenance of deer/elk/pronghorn 

populations. populations. 

• Exception: An exception to this stipulation may be granted by the authorized officer 

if the operator submits a plan which demonstrates that impacts from the proposed 

action are acceptable or can be mitigated adequately. 

• Modification: The boundaries of the stipulated area may be modified if the authorized 

officer determines that portions of the area no longer contain winter range. This 

stipulation can be expanded to cover additional portions of the lease if additional 

habitat areas are identified, or if habitat use areas change. The dates for the timing 

restriction may be modified if new wildlife use information indicates that the dates in 

Table 1 are not valid for the leasehold. alid for the leasehold. 

• Waiver: This stipulation may be waived if the authorized officer determines that the 

entire leasehold no longer contains winter range. Consultation with the ODFW will be 

required prior to exception, modification, or waiver of this stipulation. er of this stipulation. 

Resource – Sage grouse lek sites Resource – Sage grouse lek sites 

• Stipulation: Surface occupancy and use is prohibited within 0.6 miles of known sagegrouse lek sites. grouse lek sites. 

• Objective: Objective: To protect sage-grouse lek sites. o protect sage-grouse lek sites. 

• Exception: An exception may be granted by the authorized officer if the operator 

submits a plan which demonstrates that the proposed action will not affect the sagegrouse or its lek site. grouse or its lek site. 

212 
 

 

 

Appendix Appendix B 

• Modification: The boundaries of the stipulated area may be modified if the authorized 

officer determines that a portion of the area can be occupied without adversely 

affecting the sage grouse or its lek site. ecting the sage grouse or its lek site. 

• Waiver: This stipulation may be waived if the authorized officer determines that there 

is no longer a lek site on the leasehold. is no longer a lek site on the leasehold. 

• Note: There are no standardized closures to surface occupancy and use in sage grouse 

nesting, brooding/rearing, or winter habitat areas. However, restrictions (including 

seasonal closures to surface use) could apply and would be determined by site-specific 

analyses. analyses. 

Areas of Critical Environmental Concern/Special Management Areas Areas of Critical Environmental Concern/Special Management Areas 

Resource – ACECs 

• Stipulation: Stipulation: Surface occupancy is prohibited within all Surface occupancy is prohibited within all ACECs. 

• Objective: To protect natural processes and historic, cultural, scenic, fisheries, and 

wildlife resources. wildlife resources. 

• Exception: An exception to this stipulation may be granted by the authorized officer if 

the operator submits a plan demonstrating that impacts from the proposed action are 

acceptable or can be mitigated adequately. 

• Modification: The boundaries of the stipulated area may be modified if the ACEC 

boundaries are modified. 

• Waiver: This stipulation may be waived if the ACEC designation is liĞed. A 30-day 

public notice period will be required prior to exception, modification, or waiver of this 

stipulation. stipulation. 

Guidelines for Locatable Minerals Surface Management Guidelines for Locatable Minerals Surface Management 

43 CFR 3809—Standards for Exploration, Mining, and Reclamation 43 CFR 3809—Standards for Exploration, Mining, and Reclamation 

The following operational guidelines for mining activities have been compiled to assist 

the miner in complying with the 43 CFR 3809 regulations, which apply to all mining 

operations on BLM administered lands. The manner in which the necessary work is to be 

done will be site specific and all of the following standards may not apply to each mining 

operation. It is the mining claimant’s and operator’s responsibility to avoid “unnecessary 

or undue degradation” and they must perform all necessary reclamation work. Refer to 

43 CFR 3809 regulations for general requirements and performance standards. The BLM 

will provide site-specific guidelines for some mining proposals. c guidelines for some mining proposals. 

Operations in WSAs are regulated under 43 CFR 3802 and the wilderness IMP. WSAs are 

technically open to mineral location, but are severely restricted by the wilderness IMPs 

“no reclamation” standard. “no reclamation” standard. 

Construction and Mining Construction and Mining 

Vegetation removal: Remove only that vegetation which is in the way of mining 

activities. Merchantable timber must be marked by BLM prior to cuĴing, and may not 

be used for firewood. It is recommended that small trees (less than 6 inches diameter at 

breast height [dbh]) and shrubs are to be lopped and scaĴered, or shredded for use as 

mulch. Trees over 12 inches dbh should be bucked and stacked in an accessible location 

unless they are needed for the mining operation. unless they are needed for the mining operation. 

Firewood: Firewood may not be cut and sold, or used off of the mining claims. of the mining claims. of the mining claims. 

Topsoil: All excavations should have all productive topsoil (usually the top 6 to 

18 inches) first stripped, stockpiled, and protected from erosion for use in future 

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Upper Deschutes Record of Decision and Resource Management Plan ce Management Plan 

reclamation. This also includes removal of topsoil before the establishment of mining 

waste dumps and tailings ponds if the waste material will be leĞ in place during 

reclamation. reclamation. 

Roads: Existing roads and trails should be used as much as possible. Temporary roads 

are to be constructed to a minimum width and with minimum cuts and fills. All roads 

shall be constructed so as not to negatively impact slope stability. Access may be limited 

in some areas by off-highway vehicle restrictions. ehicle restrictions. 

Water quality: When mining will be in or near bodies of water, or sediment will be 

discharged, contact the ODEQ and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. It is the operator’s 

responsibility to obtain any needed suction dredging, streambed alteration, or water 

discharge permits required by Federal or state agencies. Copies of such permits shall be 

provided to the resource area manager if a notice or plan of operations is filed. 

Claim monuments: Due to the history of small wildlife deaths, plastic pipe is no longer 

allowed for claim staking pursuant to state law. It is recommended that existing plastic 

pipe monuments have all openings permanently closed. Upon loss or abandonment of 

the claim, all plastic pipe must be removed from the public lands, and when old markers 

are replaced during normal claim maintenance, they are to be either wood posts or stone 

or earth mounds, consistent with state law. 

Drill sites: Exploratory drill sites should be located near or adjacent to existing roads 

when possible without blocking public access. When drill sites must be constructed, 

the size of the disturbance shall be as small as possible in order to conduct drilling 

operations. operations. 

Dust and erosion control: While in operation, and during periods of temporary shutdown, exposed ground surfaces susceptible to erosion will need to be protected. This can 

be accomplished with seeding, mulching, installation of water diversions, and routine 

watering of dust producing surfaces. atering of dust producing surfaces. 

Fire safety: All State fire regulations must be followed, including obtaining a campfire 

permit or blasting permit if needed. All internal combustion engines must be equipped 

with approved spark arresters. ed spark arresters. 

Safety and public exclusion: The general public may not be excluded from the mining 

claim. In the interest of safety, the general public can be restricted only from specific 

dangerous areas (underground mines, open pits, or heavy equipment) by erecting fences, 

gates and warning signs. It is the operator’s responsibility to protect the public from 

mining hazards. Gates or road blocks may be installed on existing or proposed roads 

only with the approval of the resource area manager. 

Occupancy: All structures/trailers on mining claims must be used for mining purposes 

(must be reasonably incident to mining) and should be covered by a notice or plan of 

operation. Use of such a structure for residential purposes not related to mining or for 

recreation is not authorized. recreation is not authorized. 

Suction dredging: Filing either notice or plan of operations is required on all suction 

dredge operations. The operator must have the applicable ODEQ suction dredge permit 

prior to starting work, and a copy should be submiĴed to the resource area manager. 

Tailings ponds: SeĴling ponds must be used to contain fines and any discharge into 

creeks must meet the ODEQ standards. creeks must meet the ODEQ standards. 

Trash and garbage: Trash, garbage, used oil, etc. must be removed from public land and 

disposed of properly. Do not bury any trash, garbage, or hazardous wastes on public 

214 
Appendix Appendix B 

lands. Accumulations of trash, debris, or inoperable equipment on public lands are 

viewed as unnecessary degradation and will not be tolerated. ed as unnecessary degradation and will not be tolerated. 

Cultural and paleontological resources: Operators shall not knowingly alter, injure, or 

destroy any scientifically important paleontological (fossil) remains or any historical or 

archaeological site, structure, or object on Federal lands. The operator shall immediately 

bring to the aĴention of the resource area manager, any paleontological (fossil) remains 

or any historical or archaeological site, structure, or object that might be altered or 

destroyed by exploration or mining operations, and shall leave such discovery intact until 

told to proceed by the resource area manager. The resource area manager shall evaluate 

the discovery, take action to protect or remove the resource, and allow operations to 

proceed within 10 working days. orking days. 

Threatened and endangered species of plants/ animals: Operators shall take such action 

as may be needed to prevent adverse impacts to T&E species of plants and animals 

and their habitat which may be affected by operations. Special status species (Federal 

candidate/Bureau sensitive) of plants and animals, and their habitat, will be identified by 

the resource area manager, and shall be avoided wherever possible. er possible. 

Areas of Critical Environmental Concern: Operators are required to prepare and have 

the BLM approve a plan of operations prior to conducting mining activities within 

ACECs. The plan of operations would specifically need to address methods to mitigate 

impacts to those relevant and important resource values for which the ACEC was 

designated. designated. 

Suitable Wild and Scenic Rivers: Areas within 0.25 mile of rivers recommended suitable 

as a wild river under the “Wild and Scenic Rivers Act,” are closed to new mineral 

location. Mining activity occurring at the time of congressional designation would 

be allowed to continue, but must be conducted in a manner that minimizes surface 

disturbance, sedimentation, pollution, and visual impacts. Areas recommended as either 

scenic or recreational under the “Wild and Scenic Rivers Act” would allow new and 

existing mineral location to occur, but it must be conducted in a manner that minimizes 

surface disturbance, sedimentation, pollution, and visual impacts. surface disturbance, sedimentation, pollution, and visual impacts. 

Reclamation Reclamation 

Reclamation of all disturbed areas must be performed concurrently with mining, or as 

soon as possible aĞer mining permanently ceases. Reclamation shall include, but shall 

not be limited to: (1) saving of topsoil for final application aĞer reshaping of disturbed 

areas has been completed; (2) measures to control erosion, landslides, and water 

runoff; (3) measures to isolate, remove, or control toxic materials; (4) reshaping the area 

disturbed, application of topsoil, and revegetation of disturbed areas, where reasonably 

practicable; and (5) rehabilitation of fisheries and wildlife habitat. When reclamation 

of the disturbed area has been completed, except to the extent necessary to preserve 

evidence of mineralization, the resource area manager must be notified so that inspection 

of the area can be made. of the area can be made. 

Equipment and debris: All mining equipment, vehicles, structures, debris, and trash 

must be removed from the public lands during periods of non-operation and/or at the 

conclusion of mining, unless authorization from the resource area manager is given to the 

operator or claimant in writing. operator or claimant in writing. 

Backfilling & recontouring: The first steps in reclaiming a disturbed site are backfilling 

excavations and reducing high walls. Coarse rock material should be replaced 

first, followed by medium sized material, with fine materials to be placed on top. 

Recontouring means shaping the disturbed area so that it will blend in with the 

surrounding lands and minimize the possibility of erosion. surrounding lands and minimize the possibility of erosion. 

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Seedbed preparation: Recontouring should include preparation of an adequate seedbed. 

This is accomplished by ripping or disking compacted soils to a depth of at least 6 inches 

in rocky areas and at least 12 inches in less rocky areas. This should be done following 

the contour of the land to limit erosion. All stockpiled seĴling pond fines, and then 

topsoil, are spread evenly over the disturbed areas. er the disturbed areas. 

Fertilizer: The resource area manager must be contacted to determine if fertilization will 

be necessary, and if so, the type and rate of application. , and if so, the type and rate of application. 

Revegetation: A resource area manager-approved revegetation prescription must be used 

to provide adequate revegetation for erosion control, wildlife habitat, and productive 

secondary uses of public lands. secondary uses of public lands. 

Mulch: As directed by the resource area manager, during review of the notice or plan of 

operations, the disturbed area may require mulching during interim or final reclamation 

procedures. Depending on site conditions, the mulch may need to be punched, neĴed, or 

blown on with a tackifier to hold it in place. In some cases, erosion control blankets may 

be cost effective for use. e for use. 

Roads: AĞer mining is completed, all new roads shall be reclaimed, unless otherwise 

specified by the resource area manager. High wall and cutbanks are to be knocked down 

or backfilled to blend with the surrounding landscape. Remove all culverts from drainage 

crossings and cut back the fill to the original channel. The roadbed should be ripped to 

a minimum depth of 12 inches to reduce compaction and provide a good seedbed. The 

road must then be fertilized and seeded if necessary. When necessary, waterbars are to be 

used to block access and provide drainage. used to block access and provide drainage. 

Tailings ponds: The ponds should be allowed to dry out and the fines removed and 

spread with the topsoil, unless the fines contain toxic materials. If the ponds contain toxic 

materials, a plan will be developed to identify, dispose, and mitigate effects of the toxic 

materials. If necessary, a monitoring plan will also be implemented. The ponds should 

then be backfilled and reclaimed. lled and reclaimed. 

Guidelines for Development of Salable Mineral

Materials Materials 

Proposed Operations Proposed Operations 

All proposed pits and quarries, and any exploration that involves surface disturbance, 

are required to have operating and reclamation plans that must be approved by the 

resource area manager. All proposals will undergo the appropriate level of review and 

compliance with NEPA. 

Operating Procedures Operating Procedures 

Where practicable, the following requirements should be made a part of every contract or 

permit providing for the use of mineral material sites in the planning area: permit providing for the use of mineral material sites in the planning area: 

• For additional information, see operating guidelines in the Management Plan. For additional information, see operating guidelines in the Management Plan. 

• Oversized boulders shall not be wasted but shall be broken and utilized concurrently 

with the excavated material. ated material. 

• The operator shall comply with local and state safety codes covering quarry 

operations, warning signs, and traffic control. All necessary permits must be obtained 

from state and county agencies. from state and county agencies. 

• Use of the site for equipment storage and stockpiling rock material is allowed for 

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Appendix Appendix B 

the duration of the contract or permit. Use of the site beyond that time would be 

authorized under a special use permit. authorized under a special use permit. 

• All topsoil shall be stockpiled or windrowed, as appropriate, for use in reclamation. ed, as appropriate, for use in reclamation. 

• Prior to abandonment, all material sites will be graded to conform with the 

surrounding topography. Oversize material that is not usable will be placed in the 

boĴom of the pit and the pit would be filled, graded covered with topsoil. Reseeding, 

if necessary, will be done as prescribed by the resource area manager. Access roads 

no longer needed by the BLM will be abandoned and reclaimed as directed by the 

resource area manager. 

• For additional information, see operating guidelines in the proposed Management 

Plan. 

Quarry Design Quarry Design 

Where in steep terrain in the operating area, quarry developments will require a series of 

benches to effectively maximize the amount of mineral materials to be removed in a safe 

manner. In most cases, bench height should not exceed 40 feet, and if the bench will be 

used by bulldozers to access other parts of the quarry, the width of the bench should be 

at least 25 feet. If the bench is not used by equipment, then this width can be reduced to 

approximately 10 feet. approximately 10 feet. 

Clearing of timber and brush should be planned at least 10 feet beyond the edge of the 

excavation limit. Most oĞen the brush will be piled and burned at the site, or scaĴered 

nearby. 

If at all possible, all topsoil and overburden should be stockpiled and saved for eventual 

quarry site reclamation. These piles may need to be stabilized by seeding in order to 

minimize erosion during the winter months. As a standard procedure, the excavation of 

the quarry floor should be designed with an outslope of approximately 3 percent in order 

to provide for adequate drainage of the floor. Compliance with this design should be 

made a requirement of all operators at the site. made a requirement of all operators at the site. 

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