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• 7. Wetlands None of the seven wetlands on the site are proposed to be altered due to the request for mineral excavation. Staff recommends a fifty-foot setback be maintained from wetlands to mining activity and that they are protected with silt fencing. As previously mentioned, staff recommends that calcium not be used to control dust on the site so it doesn't run into the wetlands, altering their pH. In addition, staff recommends all drainage from the excavated areas be directed through temporary sedimentation ponds prior to discharge off-site or to wetlands. The petitioner will be required to construct the sedimentation ponds in a way that does not deny any natural wetlands hydrology, consequently drying them up. Prior to operations commencing, the petitioner is required to obtain a National Point Discharge Elimination System Permit, which also deals with the issues listed above. 8. Trees/Oak Wilt Staff is recommending that the trees south of the existing drive along the south property line in Phase 3 not be cut and this portion of the site not be excavated. This is the only location where tree removal affects a wooded area. Additionally, staff recommends that trees that are cut not be removed between April 15th and July 15th of any year. Further, it is recommended that the roots of trees that are to remain not be left exposed. In its permit, the city should also allow flexibility to • require additional measures be taken to combat oak wilt and other diseases, as warranted. 9. Reclamation Although the description of the reclamation in the petitioner's application is not very specific, it is adequate with the stipulations proposed in the attached CUP. The petitioner is proposing to return the site to pasture after the mining operations cease. Unlike most gravel pits, this one will not leave a hole. Basically, hills on the site will be cut down, ending up at the same elevation of the surrounding land. 10. Blanding's Turtles Sightings of Blanding's Turtles have been documented in the area of the proposed operation. Blanding's Turtles are classified as a rare species. The petitioner has stated in his EAW that Department of Natural Resource flyers containing an illustration of a Blanding's Turtle will be distributed to all site workers. The petitioner further proposes that turtles sighted that are in danger will be moved to a safe location and turtles not in danger will be left undisturbed. It is proposed that all construction areas be surrounded by silt fencing to keep turtles from entering and no wetlands are proposed to be altered as a result of the mining operation. 11. Environmental Assessment Worksheet (EAW) • EAWs are used as an information gather tool. Although the Planning Commission does not need to formally act on the EAW for this request, staff feels