To minimize the adverse impacts of a mining operation, the following must be considered during the mine planning process:

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

Source: 14 SDR 111, effective March 3, 1988.

General Authority: SDCL 45-6B-81.

Law Implemented: SDCL 45-6B-45.