ARSD 74:29:07:02. Minimizing of adverse impacts

To minimize the adverse impacts of a mining operation, the following must be considered during the mine planning process: (1) Design of mine operation facilities to minimize surface disturbances; (2) Construction of mine facilities so that affected lands are cleared in small sections or increments to match the needs of mine production; (3) Visual screening of affected lands, including pits, dumps, impoundments, process facilities, buildings, and equipment; (4) Design, construction, and location of mine facilities to minimize impacts to surface water and groundwater; (5) Control of access; (6) Preventive measures to minimize harmful impacts to wildlife; (7) Location of waste dumps, spoil piles, and topsoil stockpiles to facilitate implementation of reclamation and to minimize environmental impacts; (8) Minimizing the production of mine waste and spoil; (9) Design and location of facilities so they are compatible with surrounding land uses; and (10) Integration of mine operations planning with the reclamation plan.