Closure of mine site following restoration

After completing restoration of all permit area aquifers, the operator shall plug wells that will not be used for postclosure monitoring, and reclaim the facilities in accordance with plans in the permit and reclamation plan. When well plugging and surface reclamation are complete, the operator shall notify the department. A final closure inspection and a review of water quality data shall be conducted by the department. The commission shall hold a hearing to determine if the operator has restored the aquifers and reclaimed the surface facilities and affected lands. Upon successful restoration and reclamation by the operator, the postclosure care and maintenance period will begin.