20230523_ADI_Received

SWCA
o EdinoA Soul. 275 Svim 120
Cary,Noah Carolina 27511 RECEIVED
Te1919.292.2200
ENVIRONMENTAL CONSULTANTS www.swca.com
"h Sound science.Cmative solutions! KAY 2 3 2aD
LAND QUALITY
MINING PROGRAM
Adam Parr
Assistant State Mining Engineer
Division of Energy, Mineral and Land Resources
Department of Environmental Quality
1612 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, NC 27699-1612
Subject: Kings Mountain Mine-East, Mining Permit No. 23-01, Cleveland County, Broad River Basin.
1. Please complete page 1 of the application. The name of the applicant contact, email, telephone need to
be completed.
Response: A revised application has been prepared and is attached.
2. Please verify the address for receipt of official mail, it does not match what the Department currently has
on file.
Response: The address listed in the application is the address to be used for receipt of official mail.
The Department files should be updated to reflect this address.
3. In section A.2 please list the materials mined for which this permit is issued.
Response: There are no materials being mined at the site for this permit modification. Mining was
halted in the 19801s.The modification is for drilling and support activities only.
4. In section A.6 please provide an estimated life of the operation in years.
Response: An estimate of 10 years for the operation has been provided Section A.6.
5. Please clarify the name of the applicant. Albemarle U.S. Inc. is not listed on the Secretary of State's
Website.
Response:Albemarle U.S., Inc.is listed on the Secretary of States Website. Secretary of State ID
0652066.
6. Please verify that Jose Fernando Rodriguez is an officer of the company or provide documentation
showing that they can sign on behalf of the company.
Response: Mr. Christopher Danauskas, Site Director, is authorized to sign on behalf of the company.
A Delegation of Authority is provided as Appendix A.

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SWCA
ENVIRONMENTAL CONSULTANTS
2/36 Sound Science.Creative Solutions?
7. Please see the enclosed comments from the US Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) and the North
Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC). Please provide a biological assessmentlbiological
evaluation, and/or a mitigation plan to mitigate potential adverse impacts to wildlife.
Response: Responses to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service(USFWS) and the North Carolina Wildlife
Resources Commission (NCWRC) comments are provided as Appendix B.
8. Please verify that no fuel tanks, solvents, or other chemical reagents are to be stored on site. If these
any of these items are to be stored onsite, please correct your response to C.12 in the mine permit
application and clearly indicate and label on the mine map the location of these items.
Response: Fuel tanks,solvents, and other chemical reagents are stored within the Permit Boundary
at the Plant Facility. Our response to C.12 has been updated to reflect this. The Plant Facility is not
associated with the proposed activities. Locations and details have been provided on the updated
Mine Maps. Potential pollutants associated with industrial activities at the facility include materials
such as spodumene, hydrobromic acid, hydrochloric acid, lithium chloride and lithium bromide
brine, lime, lithium carbonate, lithium hydroxide,sodium hydroxide, calcium carbonate,fuel oil
(diesel and gasoline), hydraulic fluid, glycol,and hexane.The Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan
has been provided as Appendix C.
9. Please refer to Section D of the mine permit application and provide a reclamation map that clearly
illustrates the reclamation plan for the entire site. The map should clearly illustrate the post mining use
of the entire site. It should also include all italicized items listed in the application.
Response: A Reclamation Map(s) has been provided in the plan set.
10. Please provide a response to items D.3, DA, D.5, and D.6 that address the reclamation plan of this
permit.
Response: Items D.3, DA, D.5, and D.6 have been addressed in the application and Reclamation
Map. Details are provided on Revised Attachment A.
11. Please complete section G. Land Entry Agreement of the Mine Permit Application
Response: Section G. Land Entry Agreement of the Mine Permit Application has been completed on
the revised application.
Should you have any questions regarding the above or enclosed please do not hesitate to contact me at
352.818.8995 or by email at steve.adams('7a swca.com
Sincerely yours
?? sfzw-
Steve Adams
Principal Project Manager
Cc: John Kuhn Albemarle

NORTH CAROLINA MINING State of North Carolina 1612 Mail Service Center
PERMIT APPLICATION Department of Environmental Quality Raleigh,NC 27699-1612
Division of Energy,Mineral,and Land Resources [phone]
NOTE:it is recommended that you contact the appropriate Regional Office or the Raleigh Centr��II,,QQ((����gg��44FF @ P
APPLICATION MEETING to discuss your intentions and address any question&.'?t C�V
1. Name of Mine Kings Mountain Mine-East NAY 2 3 2023
County Cleveland River Basin Broad LAND QUALITY
Latitude(decimal degrees to four
M
places) 35 21'25"
Longitude(decimal degrees to four
places) 81 20'40"
2. Name of Applicant Albemarle U.S., Inc.
Applicant Contact John Kuhn Consultant Contact Steve Adams
Applicant Email [e-mail] Consultant Email [e-mail]
Telephone Telephone
Cell Phone [phone] Cell Phone [phone]
3 Permanent Address for Receipt of
Official Mail" 348 Holiday Inn Drive
Kings Mountain, NC 28086
4. Mine Office Address 348 Holiday Inn Drive
Kings Mountain, NC 28086
5. Mine Manager Christopher Danauskas
Mine Manager Email [e-mail]
Telephone [phone] Cell Phone [phone]
1 certify that all details contained in this permit application are true and correct to the best of our knowledge.We
fully understand that any willful misrepresentation of facts will be cause for permit revocation.
Signature"` ` Date
Print Name Christopher Danauskas
Title Site Director
'This will be the name that the mining permit will be issued to and the name that must be indicated on the reclamation bond(security)that
corresponds to this site.
"The Division of Energy,Mineral,and Land Resources must be notified of any changes in the permanent address or telephone number.
'Signature of company officer required.
G.S.74-51 provides that the Department shall grant or deny an application for a permit within 60 days of receipt of a complete
application or,if a public hearing is held,within 30 days following the hearing and the filing of any supplemental information
required by the Department.All questions must be addressed,and all required maps provided before this application can
be considered complete.Attach additional sheets as needed.
ReO'Ld Srpi-anl— :'I _'02i Pane I 1

i
NORTH CAROLINA MINING State of North Carolina 1612 Mail Service Center
PERMIT APPLICATION Department of Environmental Quality Raleigh,NC 27699-1612
Division of Energy,Mineral,and Land Resources [phone]
NOTE:All the following questions must be thoroughly answered regarding your mining operation for the intended
life of the mine.All responses must be clearly conveyed on a corresponding,detailed mine map.
A.GENERAL CHARACTERISTICS OF THE MINE
1. Answer all the following that apply:
F� This is an application for a NEW permit.
Indicate the total acreage at the site to be covered by the permit
(This is the acreage the new permit fee will be based upon.)
Of this acreage,how much is owned and how much is leased?
Acres owned: Acres leased:
Property owner if leased:
FX-1 This is an application for a MODIFICATION to a mining permit.
Mining Permit Number: 23-01 Total permitted acreage: 614.31
Does the modification involve acreage within the previously approved permitted boundary?
DYES FINO
If yes,indicate the acreage to be covered by this modification 18.50
Does the modification involve acreage outside the previously approved permitted boundary?
FIYES FX]NO
If yes,indicate the additional acreage to be covered by this modification
NOTE:You must complete all of Section F of this application form entitled Notification of Adjoining
Landowners
Of the acreage to be added to the permit,will any portion be affected(i.e.:disturbed,ground cover
removed)by the mining operation?
FIYES 1-1 NO
If yes,indicate the acreage to be affected within the acreage to be added to the permit
The modification fee is based upon the proposed new affected acreage within the previously
approved permitted boundary plus the proposed total acreage to be added outside the previously
approved permitted boundary.
F-1 This is an application for TRANSFER of a mining permit.
Mining Permit Number: Total permitted acreage:
Revised -eptt1wb r 21, 20?] P za g e 12

i
NORTH CAROLINA MINING State of North Carolina 1612 Mail Service Center
PERMIT APPLICATION Department of Environmental Quality Raleigh,NC 27699-1612
Division of Energy,Mineral,and Land Resources [phone]
MINING FEE SCHEDULE
A nonrefundable permit application processing fee when filing for a new mining permit,permit modification,or transferred permit is
required as follows:
APPLICATION TYPE 0—25 ACRES 26+ACRES
New Permit Applications $3,750.00 $5,000.00
Permit Modifications $750.00 $1,000.00
Permit Transfers $100.00 $100.00
AnnualOperating Fee $400.00 $400.00
Acres for new permits means the total acreage at the site to be covered by the permit.Acres for modification of permits means the
new affected acres within the previously approved permitted boundary plus the proposed total acreage to be added outside the
previously approved permitted boundary.
2. Name of all materials mined: There Is no active mining operation in the permit area.There Is no proposed excavation or mining of materials for this modification.
3. Mining Method:
❑Hydraulic Dredge Front-end Loader&Truck nShovel&Truck
Dragline&Truck Self-loading Scraper F1 Excavator&Truck
Other(please explain):
4. Expected maximum depth of mine(feet)
Depth is relative to what benchmark?(e.g.,natural ground level,mean seal level,road elevation,etc.):
Expected average depth of mine(feet)
5. Has an area at this site been mined in the past?
YES X NO
If yes,when and by whom was this activity conducted? Foote Mineral Company
6. Estimated life of the operation(yearn: 10
NOTE:The Department may request clarification on how life of mine was calculated.
Revi�-eti s«-'ptc tuber 21, 20')] P a n, 11 3

NORTH CAROLINA MINING State of North Carolina 1612 Mail Service Center
PERMIT APPLICATION Department of Environmental Quality Raleigh,NC 27699-1612
Division of Energy,Mineral,and Land Resources [phone]
B,MAPS
1. Clearly mark and label the location of your mining operation on six(6)copies of a 7.5-minute quadrangle and a county
highway map.These maps,in addition to six(6)copies of all mine maps and reclamation maps,must be submitted
with each permit application.
7.5-minute quadrangles may be obtained from the N.C.Geological Survey:
Mailing Address Physical Address
1612 Mail Service Center 512 N.Salisbury St.,5th Floor
Raleigh,NC 27699-1612 Raleigh,NC 27604
Htt2://portal.ncdenr.orglweb/Irtgeological home [phone]
County highway maps may be obtained from the N.C.Department of Transportation:
Mailing Address Physical Address
NCDOT GIS Unit NCDOT GIS Unit
1587 Mail Service Center 3401 Carl Sandburg Court
Raleigh,NC 27699-1587 Raleigh,NC 27610
http://www.ncdot.rg/iYgis [phone]
2. A tabletchart must be provided on the mine map that clearly lists the approximate acreage of tailings/sediment ponds,
stockpiles,waste piles,processing areas/haul roads,mine excavations and any other major aspect of the mining
operation that is proposed to be affected/disturbed during the life of the mining permit.A table/chart similar to the
following will be acceptable:
AFFECTED ACREAGE TABLE:
For new permits,complete only the total affected acreage column.
For mod cations,complete all columns.
CATEGORY CURRENT AFFECTED PROPOSED CHANGE TO TOTAL AFFECTED
ACREAGE AFFECTED ACREAGE ACREAGE
Tailings/Sediment Ponds 0.00 0.00 0.00
Stockpiles 0.00 0.00 0.00
Waste piles 0.00 0.00 0.00
Processing Areas/Haul Roads 3.00 4.50 7.50
Mine Excavations 0.00 0.00 0.00
Other(Please explain) 4.50 6.50 11.00
Total Affected Acreage 7.50 11.00 18.50
Total Permitted Acreage 614.31 614.31 614.31
Re Jsed September 21. P a a r 14

NORTH CAROLINA MINING State of North Carolina 1612 Mail Service Center
PERMIT APPLICATION Department of Environmental Quality Raleigh,NC 27699-1612
Division of Energy,Mineral,and Land Resources [phone]
3. Mine maps must be accurate and appropriately scaled drawings,aerial photographs,or enlarged topographic maps of
the entire mine site.All aspects of the mine site must be clearly labeled on the maps along with their
corresponding(approximate)acreage.Thus,all mine and reclamation maps must denote those activities that
are intended to be conducted during the life of the mining permit.All maps must be of a scale sufficient to clearly
illustrate the following,at a minimum:
a) Property lines of the tract or tracts of land on which the proposed mining activity is to be located including
easements and rights-of-way.
b) Existing or proposed permit boundaries with geographic controls(e.g.metes and bounds,coordinates)labeled
c) Initial and ultimate limits of clearing and grading
d) Outline and width of all buffer zones(both undisturbed and unexcavated)
e) Outline and acreage of all pits/excavations
f) Outline and acreage of all stockpile areas
g) Outline and acreage of all temporary and/or permanent overburden disposal areas
h) Location and acreage of all processing plants(may be described as to location and distance from mine if
sufficiently far removed)
i) Locations and names of all streams,rivers,and lakes
j) Outline and acreage of all settling and/or processing wastewater ponds
k) Outline and acreage of all planned and existing access roads and on-site haul roads
1) Location of planned and existing on-site buildings
m) Location and dimensions of all proposed sediment and erosion control measures
n) Location of 100-year floodplain limits and wetland boundaries
o) Names of owners of record,both public and private,of all tracts of land that are adjoining the mining permit
boundary;if an adjoining tract is owned or leased by the applicant or is owned by the lessor of the mine tract,
names of owners of record of tracts adjoining these tracts that are within 1,000 feet of the mining permit boundary
must be provided on the mine map.
p) Names of owners of record,both public and private,of all tracts of land that are adjoining the mining permit
boundary which lie directly across and are contiguous to any highway,creek,stream,river,or other watercourse,
railroad track,or utility or other public right-of-way.If an adjoining tract is owned or leased by the applicant or is
owned by the lessor of the mine tract,names of owners of record of tracts adjoining these tracts,that are within
1,000 feet of the mining permit boundary,must be provided on the mine map(s).NOTE:'Highway"means a road
that has four lanes of travel or less and is not designated as an Interstate Highway.
q) Map legend
1) Applicant name 5) Scale
2) Mine name 6) Symbols used and corresponding names
3) North arrow 7) Date prepared and revised
4) County 8) Name and title of person preparing map
Map scales should meet the following guidelines:
PERMITTED ACREAGE MAP SCALE
0—49 acres 1"=50'
50—199 acres 1"=100'
200+acres 1"=200'
NOTE:Smaller scaled maps may be acceptable if they clearly illustrate the above items.
NOTE:In addition to the above,the maps must also include any site-specific information that is provided in
the answers to the following questions(italicized questions/statements)in this application form.This
application will not be considered complete without all relevant items being adequately addressed on the mine
maps.
Revised �epteniher 21, 2021 P a g e 15

NORTH CAROLINA MINING State of North Carolina 1612 Mail Service Center
PERMIT APPLICATION Department of Environmental Quality Raleigh,NC 27699-1612
Division of Energy,Mineral,and Land Resources [phone]
C.PROTECTION OF NATURAL RESOURCES
1. Describe in detail the sequence of events for the development and operation of the mine and reference the sequence
to the mine map(s).Attach additional sheets as needed.
This permit modification is a continuance of the modification approved April 20, 2018
to allow land clearance for conducting pre-mine activities such as preparing drilling rig
pads, and associated support areas such as lay-down yards and access paths which
may result in minor land disturbances. Drill pads are approximately 40'x 80'.Access
paths may be required from within the existing internal road network and would not
exceed 30' in width. Lay-down areas, as needed, are proposed not to exceed 100'x
100'. No excavation or mining of materials is included in this modification.
2. Describe specific erosion control measures to be installed prior to land disturbing activities and during mining to
prevent offsite sedimentation(include specific plans for sediment and erosion control for mine excavation(s),waste
piles,accessJmine roads,and process areas),and give a detailed sequence of installation and schedule for
maintenance of the measures.Locate and label all sediment and erosion control measures on the mine map(s)and
provide typical cross-sectionskonstruction details of each measure.Engineering designs and calculations are required
to justify the adequacy of any proposed measures.
Similar to the previous modification(approved April 20,2018)for drill pads and access roads,
appropriate sediment control measures will be implemented based on locations of the
proposed drill pad,access road, and support area. Sediment and erosion control measures
are as follows:
Type A:Adjacent to Wetland or Stream
Type B:Tree/brush clearing
Type C: Internal Drainage(No connection to State Waters)
Details of each type are provided in Revised Attachment A.
3. A)Will the operation involve washing the material mined,recycling process water,or other wastewater handling?
1:1
YES FX
If yes,briefly describe all such processes including any chemicals to be used.
No materials are proposed for mining in this modification. The proposed
activities do not involve material washing, recycling process water, or other
waste water handling.
B)Will the operation involve discharging fresh or wastewater from the mine or plant as a point discharge to the waters
of the State?
YES DNO
If yes,briefly describe the nature of the discharge and locate all proposed discharge points(along with their method of
stabilization)on the mine map(s).
The operation under this modification will not be discharging fresh or wastewater
as a point discharge to the waters of the State.
Revised SeE leniber 21, 2021 Page 16

NORTH CAROLINA MINING State of North Carolina 1612 Mail Service Center
PERMIT APPLICATION Department of Environmental Quality Raleigh,NC 27699-1612
Division of Energy,Mineral,and Land Resources [phone]
C)Will any part of the proposed mine excavation(s)extend below the water table?
YES A NO
If yes,do you intend to dewater the excavation(s)?
1:1 YES X❑ NO
Estimated withdrawal rate in gallons per day:
If yes,what impact,if any,will mine dewatering have on neighboring wells?Locate all existing wells on the mine
map(s)that lie within 500 feet of the proposed excavation area.Provide data to support any conclusions or statement
made,including any monitoring well data,well construction data,and current water withdrawal rates.Indicate whether
the proposed mine locale is served by a public water system or private wells.
No materials are proposed to be excavated or mined under this modification.
D)If you answered yes to any of the above questions,provide evidence that you have applied for or obtained the
appropriate water quality permit(s)(i.e.,non-discharge,NPDES,Stormwater,etc.)from the Stormwater Program.In
addition,the applicant is required to register water use with the Division of Water Resources,Ground Water
Management Branch,if the operation withdraws more than 10,000 gallons per day and needs a capacity use permit
from the Division of Water Resources,Ground Water Management Branch,if the operation lies in a capacity use area
and withdraws more than 100,000 gallons per day.
No excavation or mining of materials is proposed with this modification request.
The proposed modification will not require withdrawal of groundwater.
4. A)Will the operation involve crushing or any other air contaminant emissions?
YES �NO
If yes,indicate evidence that you have applied for or obtained an air quality permit issued by the Division of Air Quality
or local governing body.
No crushing will be conducted as part of the proposed modification.
B)How will dust from stockpiles,haul roads,etc.,be controlled?
The proposed modification is not anticipated to create dust as no stockpiles or
other dust generating operations will occur.
R'evi�ed �epietj ber 21, ')[)?1 P a g e 17

NORTH CAROLINA MINING State of North Carolina 1612 Mail Service Center
PERMIT APPLICATION Department of Environmental Quality Raleigh,NC 27699-1612
Division of Energy,Mineral,and Land Resources [phone]
5. A)A buffer will be required between any mining activity and any mining permit boundary or right-of-way.It may be an
unexcavated buffer(no excavation,but roadways,berms,and erosion&sedimentation control measures may be
installed within it),an undisturbed buffer(no disturbance within the buffer whatsoever),or a combination of the two,
depending upon the site conditions.Note that all buffers must be located within the mining permit boundaries.
How wide a buffer will be maintained between any mining activity and any mining permit boundary or right-of-way at
this site?A minimum buffer of 25 feet is recommended,although a wider buffer may be needed depending on site
conditions.Show all buffer locations and widths on the mine map(s).
Buffers are shown on the Mine Maps submitted with the application. A minimum
25' buffer between the mine permit boundary and proposed activities will be
maintained, except where the mine permit boundary adjoins the Kings
Mountain-West(Permit No.23-34) mine permit boundary.
B)A minimum 50 foot wide undisturbed buffer will be required between any land disturbing activities within the mining
permit boundaries and any natural watercourses and wetlands unless smaller undisturbed buffers can be justified.
Depending on site conditions,a buffer wider than 50 feet may be needed.
How wide an undisturbed buffer will be maintained between any land disturbing activities within the mining permit
boundaries and any natural watercourses and wetlands at this site?Show all buffer locations and widths on the mine
map(s).
With the use of appropriate erosion and sediment measures as provided in C.2.
above, a 25' buffer is proposed for activities adjacent to the man-made lakes
and impoundments and a 50' buffer is proposed adjacent to wetlands,
waterways, and streams. These buffers, in combination with appropriate erosion
and sediment control measures as described in C.2 above, and in Revised
Attachment A, will provide adequate protection to wetlands, waterways and
streams.
6. A)Describe methods to prevent landslide or slope instability adjacent to adjoining permit boundaries during mining.
Minimum 2 horizontal to 1 vertical slopes or flatter for clayey material and minimum 3 horizontal to 1 vertical slopes or
flatter for sandy material are generally required unless technical justification can be provided to allow steeper slopes.
No excavation or mining of materials is proposed with this modification request.
Previous mining activities ended in the 1980's (over 40 years ago) and no
further mining activities have been conducted other than disturbance for drilling
pad areas, access paths, and lay-down areas. All previously disturbed areas
have stable slopes and are vegetated.
B)Provide a cross-section on the mine map(s)for all frl/slopes(berms,waste piles,overburden disposal areas,etc.),
clearly indicating the intended side slope gradient,installation of any benches and/or slope drains(with supporting
design information)if needed,and the method of final stabilization.
Revised September ?1, )021 P a r; e 18

NORTH CAROLINA MINING State of North Carolina 1612 Mail Service Center
PERMIT APPLICATION Department of Environmental Quality Raleigh,NC 27699-1612
Division of Energy,Mineral,and Land Resources [phone]
C)In excavation(s)of unconsolidated(non-rock)materials,specify the angle of all cut slopes including specifications
for benching and sloping.Cross-sections for all cut slopes must be provided on the mine map(s).
No excavation or mining of materials is proposed with this modification request.
D)In hardrock excavations,specify proposed bench widths and heights in feet.Provide cross-sections of the mine
excavation clearly noting the angles of the cut slopes,widths of all safety benches and mine benches,and the
expected maximum depth of the excavation.
No excavation or mining of materials is proposed with this modification request.
7. Describe other methods to be taken during mining to prevent physical hazard to any neighboring dwelling,house,
public road,or public,commercial or industrial building from any mine excavation.Locate all such structures on the
mine map if they are within 300 feet of any proposed excavation.
No excavation or mining of materials is proposed with this modification request.
8. Describe what kind of barricade will be used to prevent inadvertent public access along any high wall area and when it
will be implemented.Vegetated earthen berms,appropriate fencing and adequate boulder barriers may be acceptable
high wall barricades.A construction detaftross-section and location of each type of barricade to be used must be
indicated on the mine map(s).
Access to the site is controlled by security personnel. Existing high walls are
contained within a locked chain link fence.
9. Are If
roducing minerals or soils present?
YES rX NO
If yes,how will acid water pollution from the excavation,stockpiles,and waste areas be controlled?
The proposed modification does not involve excavation or mining of materials.
Revised �N�)lPIl1I�Pl ?1, )021 P a o e 9

NORTH CAROLINA MINING State of North Carolina 1612 Mail Service Center
PERMIT APPLICATION Department of Environmental Quality Raleigh,NC 27699-1612
Division of Energy,Mineral,and Land Resources [phone]
10. A)Describe specific plans(including a schedule of implementation)for screening the operation from public view such
as maintaining or planting trees,bushes or other vegetation,building berms or other measures.Show the location of all
visual screening on the mine map(s)and provide cross-sections through all proposed berms or proposed spacing,
sizes and species for tree plantings.
The permit area is surrounded by vegetated berms and forested areas to
obstruct public view. In areas where there may be a potential of public view,
temporary screening will be utilized rather than permanent, as the land clearing
activities are temporary in nature.
B)Could the operation have a significantly adverse effect on the purposes of a publicly owned park,forest,or
recreation area?If so,how will such effects(i.e.,noise,visibility,etc.)be mitigated?
There are no publicly owned parks,forest or recreation areas that would be
impacted by the proposed activities.
11. Will explosives be used?F]
YES �NO
If yes,specify the types of explosive(s)and describe what precaution(s)will be used to prevent physical hazard to
persons or neighboring property from flying rocks or excessive air blasts or ground vibrations.Depending on the mine's
location to nearby structures,more detailed technical information may be required on the blasting program(such as a
third-party blasting study).Locate the nearest offsite occupied structures)to the proposed excavation(s)on the mine
map and indicate its approximate distance to the proposed excavation.
No blasting is proposed with this modification.
12. Will fuel tanks,solvents,or other chemical reagents be stored on-site?
1^1YES F1NO
If yes,describe these materials,how they will be stored and method of containment in case of spill.Indicate the
location(s)of all storage facilities on the mine map(s).
The chemical facility located within the permit boundary contains fuel tanks,
solvent storage and chemical storage areas. The attached Storm Water
Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) identifies location. storage method, and
method of containment in case of spill. Additional details are provided in Revised
Attachment A.
Revised September 21, 't►?1 P a t 10

NORTH CAROLINA MINING State of North Carolina 1612 Mail Service Center
PERMIT APPLICATION Department of Environmental Quality Raleigh,NC 27699-1612
Division of Energy,Mineral,and Land Resources [phone]
D.RECLAMATION PLAN
1. Describe your intended plan for the final reclamation and subsequent use of all affected lands and indicate the
sequence and general methods to be used in reclaiming this land.This must include the method of reclamation of
settling ponds and/or sediment control basins and the method of restoration or establishment of any permanent
drainage channels to a condition minimizing erosion,siltation and other pollution. This information must be illustrated
on a reclamation map and must correspond directly with the information provided on the mine map(s).In addition,
design information,including typical cross-sections,of any permanent channels to be constructed as part of the
reclamation plan and the locations)of all permanent channels must be indicated on the reclamation map.
Previous mining was conducted up until the 1980's, after which time no mining
has occurred. Waste rock piles and tailings areas have re-vegetated naturally
into forested habitats, shrub/brush lands, and fields. All slopes, where they
occur, are stable and heavily re-vegetated. Proposed disturbance areas under
this modification will be vegetated per Item D.7 below. See Revised Attachment
A for additional details regarding the reclamation plan and attached Reclamation
Maps.
2. Is an excavated or impounded body of water to be left as part of the reclamation?
DYES F ]NO
if yes,illustrate the location of the body(s)of water on the reclamation map and provide a scaled cross-section(s)
through the proposed body(s)of water.The minimum water depth must be at least 4 feet,measured from the normal
low water table elevation,unless information is provided to indicate that a shallower water body will be productive and
beneficial at this site.
Will the body(s)of water be stocked with fish?
FIYES FXINO
If yes,specify species.
No fish stocking is proposed for the water bodies.
3. Describe provisions for safety to persons and to adjoining property in all completed excavations in rock including what
kind of permanent barricade will be left.Acceptable permanent barricades are appropriate fencing,large boulders
placed end-to-end,etc.Construction details and locations of all permanent barricades must be shown on the
reclamation map.
The permit area is surrounded by vegetated berms and forested areas. Existing
high walls are contained within a locked chain link fence. See Revised
Attachment A and Reclamation Map.
Nevi-'ed Sept elTibor 2 1, 20:,1

NORTH CAROLINA MINING State of North Carolina 1612 Mail Service Center
PERMIT APPLICATION Department of Environmental Quality Raleigh,NC 27699-1612
Division of Energy,Mineral,and Land Resources [phone]
4. Indicate the method(s)of reclamation of overburden,refuse,spoil banks or other such on-site mine waste areas,
including specifications for benching and sloping.Final cross-sections and locations for such areas must be provided
on the reclamation map.
Previous mining was conducted up until the 1980's, after which time no mining has
occurred. Waste rock piles and tailings areas have re-vegetated naturally into
forested habitats, shrub/brush lands, and fields. All slopes, where they occur, are
stable and heavily re-vegetated. Proposed disturbance areas under this
modification will be vegetated per Item D.7 below. See Revised Attachment A for
additional details regarding the reclamation plan and attached Reclamation Map.
5. A)Describe reclamation of processing facilities,stockpile areas,and on-site roadways.
The chemical facility and associated structures will be left for future industrial
users. The internal dirt road network will be seeded and vegetated per Item D.7
below.
B)Will any on-site roadways be left as part of the reclamation?
DYES RNO
If yes,identify such roadways on the reclamation map and provide details on permanent road and ditch line
stabilization.
The paved entrance road to the chemical plant will remain. The internal dirt road
network will remain in stable condition. See Revised Attachment A for additional
details.
6. Describe the method of control of contaminants and disposal of scrap metal,junk machinery,cables,or other such
waste products of mining.(Note definition of refuse in The Mining Act of 1971.)
No off-site-generated waste shall be disposed of on the mine site without prior written approval from the NC
Department of Environmental Quality,Division of Energy,Mineral,and Land Resources and either the Division
of Waste Management(DWM)or local governing body.If a disposal permit has been issued by DWM for the
site,a copy of said permit must be attached to this application.All temporary and permanent refuse disposal
areas must be clearly delineated on the mine map(s)and reclamation map,along with a list of items to be disposed in
said areas.
See Revised Attachment A for details.
Revised-)eptember 2J, 2021 12

NORTH CAROLINA MINING State of North Carolina 1612 Mail Service Center
PERMIT APPLICATION Department of Environmental Quality Raleigh,NC 27699-1612
Division of Energy,Mineral,and Land Resources [phone]
7. Describe your plan for revegetation or other surface treatment of the affected areas.This plan must include
recommendations for year-round seeding,including the time of seeding and the amount and type of seed,fertilizer,
lime and mulch per acre.The recommendations must include general seeding instructions for both permanent and
temporary revegetation.Revegetation utilizing only tree plantings is not acceptable.Recommendations can be sought
from:
a. Authorized representatives of the local Soil and Water Conservation District;
b. Authorized representatives of the NC Forest Service,Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services;
c. Authorized county representatives of the North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service,specialists and
research faculty with the Colleges of Agriculture and Life Sciences and Forest Resources at North Carolina
State University;
d. North Carolina licensed landscape architects;
e. Private consulting foresters referred by the NC Forest Service,Department of Agriculture and Consumer
Services;
f. N.C.Erosion and Sedimentation Control Planning and Design Manual;
g. N.C.Surface Mining Manual:A Guide for Permitting,Operation and Reclamation;
h. Others as may be approved by the Department.
Lime Rate of Application(tons/acre): 1
Fertilizer Analysis and Rate of Application(Ibslacre): 8-8-8/10-10-10 at 1000lbs/acre
Seed type(s)and rate(s)of application included year-round seeding schedule(lbs/acre):
NOTE:Include legumes See Revised Exhibit A.
SEED TYPES SEEDING DATES SEEDING RATES
NC Steep Slope Mix(ERNMX-310) all dates 45 Ibslacre
Native Habitat Strip Mine Mix(ERNMX-111) all dates 20 lbs/acre
Native Steep Slope Mix w/Annual Rye(ERNMX-181) Feb 15-Aug 15 60 ils/acre
Native Steep Slope Mix w/Grain Rye(ERNMX-181-2) Aug 15-Feb 15 75 Ibslacre
Mulch Type,Rate of Application(Ibslacre),and Method of Anchoring:
Small grain straw 2000 Ibslacre to be tacked or mechanically tied down
Other Vegetative Cover(s)Type(s)and Rate(s)of Application Including Seeding Schedule(Ibslacre,trees/
acre,spacing of trees/shrubs,etc.):
Temporary Cover
Brown Top Millet Feb 15-Aug 15 10 ibs/acre
Annual Rye Grain Aug 15-Feb 15 30 Ibslacre
Revegetation and/or reforestation plan approved by.-
Signature P, Jr' Date 05/1512023
Print Name Steve Adams
Title Principal Project Manager
Agency SWCA
Revised ")epleinber ?1, '0?1 P a 13

NORTH CAROLINA MINING State of North Carolina 1612 Mail Service Center
PERMIT APPLICATION Department of Environmental Quality Raleigh,NC 27699-1612
Division of Energy,Mineral,and Land Resources [phone]
E.DETERMINATION OF AFFECTED ACREAGE AND BOND
The following bond calculation worksheet is to be used to establish an appropriate bond(based upon a range of$500 to$5,000
per affected acre)for each permitted mine site based upon the acreage approved by the Department to be affected during the
life of the mining permit.Please insert the approximate acreage,for each aspect of the mining operation,that you intend to affect
during the life of this mining permit(in addition,please insert the appropriate reclamation cost/acre for each category from the
Schedule of Reclamation Costs provided with this application form)OR you can defer to the Department to calculate your bond
for you based upon your mans and standard reclamation costs:
CATEGORY AFFECTED RECLAMATION RECLAMATION
ACREAGE COSTIACRE COST
Tailings/Sediment Ponds Ac. X $ /Ac. = $ 0.00
Stockpiles Ac. X $ /Ac. = $ 0.00
Waste Piles Ac. X $ /Ac. = $ 0.00
Processing Area/Haul Roads Ac. X $ IAc. = $ 0.00
Mine Excavation Ac. X $ /Ac. _ $ 0.00
Other Ac. X $ /Ac, _ $ 0.00
TOTAL AFFECTED AC.: 0.00 Ac.
TOTAL PERMITTED AC.: Ac.
Temporary&Permanent Sedimentation&Erosion Control Measures:
Divide the TOTAL AFFECTED AC,above into the following two categories:a)affected acres that drain into proposed/existing
excavation and/or b)affected acres that will be graded for positive drainage where measures will be needed to prevent offsite
sedimentation and sedimentation to onsite watercourses and wetlands.
a) Internal Drainage Ac.
b) Positive Drainage Ac. X $1,500.00 = $ 0.00
SUBTOTAL COST:$ 0.00
Inflation Factor:
SUBTOTAL COST LIFE OF MINING OPERATION OR LIFE INFLATION COST
OF LEASE(YEARS)
0.02 X $ 0.00 X = $ 0.00
Total Reclamation Bond Cost: See Revised Attachment A.
ETOTALECLAMATION BOND COST= SUBTOTAL+INFLATION = $0.00
Round down to the nearest$100.00
NOTE:The reclamation bond cannot exceed$1 million per GS 74.54
Revised 'September 2 l, )0"1 P a a e 114

NORTH CAROLINA MINING State of North Carolina 1612 Mail Service Center
PERMIT APPLICATION Department of Environmental Quality Raleigh,NC 27699-1612
Division of Energy,Mineral,and Land Resources [phone]
SCHEDULE OF RECLAMATION COSTS
Based upon range of$500-$5,000 per affected acre
COMMODITY CODES:
SG Sand and/or Gravel DS Dimension Stone PF Pyrophyllite CL Clay/Shale
GS Gemstone FS Feldspar OL Olivine PE Peat
Borrow Borrow/fill dirt MI Mica KY Kyanite/Sillimanite/Andalusite AU Gold
CS Crushed Stone LI Lithium PH Phosphate TI Titanium
OT Other
TYPE T/S PONDS STOCKPILES WASTE PILES P.AREA/H.R. MINE EXCAVATION
$5001ac.(L)( $500/ac.(L)
SG,GS,Borrow $1800/ac. $2000/ac. $1800/ac.
1500(FI)
2000(PD)
CS,DS,FS,MI,LI, 500(L) 1800 2000 2000 500(L)
PF,OL,KY 1500(FI) 2500(PD)
1000 L
PH ( ) 2500 5000 5000 2000(L)
2500(FI) 5000(PD)
CL 1000(L) 2500 5000 5000 2000(L)
2500(FI) 3700(PD)
1000(L) 2000(L)
PE,AU,TI,OT 2500(FI) 2500 3000 3500 5000(PD)
(L)=Reclamation to a lake and revegetating side slopes
(FI)=Reclamation by filling in and revegetating
(PD)=Reclamation by grading for positive drainage&revegetating
AS PER NCAC 15A 5B.0003,IF YOU DISAGREE WITH THE BOND AMOUNT DETERMINED BY THE BOND CALCULATION
WORKSHEET,YOU MAY SUBMIT AN ESTIMATE OF RECLAMATION COSTS FROM A THIRD-PARTY CONTRACTOR.
SAID ESTIMATE MUST BE PROVIDED WITHIN 30 DAYS TO THE FOLLOWING ADDRESS: Mining Program,1612 Mail
Service Center,Raleigh,North Carolina 27699.1612
ALL ESTIMATES MUST INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING,AS A MINIMUM:
•FINAL GRADING COSTS PER ACRE
•LIME AND FERTILIZER COSTS PER ACRE
•YEAR-ROUND SEEDING MIXTURE COSTS PER ACRE(FROM APPROVED REVEGETATION PLAN IN
APPLICATIONIPERMIT DOCUMENT)
•MULCH AND ANCHORING COSTS PER ACRE
•ANY OTHER RECLAMATION COSTS NECESSARY TO COMPLY WITH THE APPROVED RECLAMATION PLAN
FOR THE SITE IN QUESTION
YOU WILL BE NOTIFIED AS SOON AS POSSIBLE OF THE DIRECTOR'S FINAL BOND DETERMINATION.
Revised '-)eptenlber �, ?021 P a C; 15

NORTH CAROLINA MINING State of North Carolina 1612 Mail Service Center
PERMIT APPLICATION Department of Environmental Quality Raleigh,NC 27699-1612
Division of Energy,Mineral,and Land Resources [phone]
F.NOTIFICATION OF ADJOINING LANDOWNERS
The"Notice"form,or a facsimile thereof,attached to this application must be sent certified or registered mail,return receipt
requested,to:
(1)the chief administrative officer of each county and municipality in which any part of the permitted area is located as
indicated on the mine map(s);
(2)all owners of record,both public and private,of all tracts of land that are adjoining the mining permit boundary;if an
adjoining tract is owned or leased by the applicant or is owned by the lessor of the mine tract,all owners of record of
tracts adjoining these tracts must be notified(that are within 1,000 feet of the mining permit boundary)as indicated on
the mine map(s);and
(3)all owners of record,both public and private,of all tracts of land that are adjoining the mining permit boundary
which lie directly across and are contiguous to any highway,creek,stream,river,or other watercourse,railroad track,
or utility or other public right-of-way.If an adjoining tract is owned or leased by the applicant or is owned by the lessor
of the mine tract,all owners of record of tracts adjoining these tracts must be notified(that are within 1,000 feet of the
mining permit boundary)as indicated on the mine map(s)."Highway"means a road that has four lanes of travel or less
and is not designated as an Interstate Highway.
The only exception to the above method of giving notice is if another means of notice is approved in advance by the Director,
Division of Energy,Mineral,and Land Resources.
A copy of a tax map(or other alternative acceptable to the Department)must be mailed with the completed"Notice"form(the
proposed overall permit boundaries and the names and locations of all owners of record of lands adjoining said
boundaries must be clearly denoted on the tax map).
The"Affidavit of Notification"attached to this application must be completed,notarized and submitted to the Department,with the
remainder of the completed application form before the application will be considered complete.
NOTES:
THIS SECTION MUST BE COMPLETED FOR ALL APPLICATIONS FOR NEW MINING PERMITS AND ALL MODIFICATIONS
OF A MINING PERMIT TO ADD LAND TO THE PERMITTED AREA,AS REQUIRED BY NCGS 74-50(b1).
SEE THE NEXT TWO PAGES FOR THE"NOTICE"FORM AND THE"AFFIDAVIT OF NOTIFICATION"
Revi�ed 1-)epteniber 21, 2021 P 16

NORTH CAROLINA MINING State of North Carolina 1612 Mail Service Center
PERMIT APPLICATION Department of Environmental Quality Raleigh,NC 27699-1612
Division of Energy,Mineral,and Land Resources [phone]
NOTICE
Pursuant to provisions G.S.74-50(b1)of The Mining Act of 1971,Notice is hereby given that
has applied on to the Division of Energy,
(Applicant Name) (Date)
Mineral,and Land Resources,North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality,1612 Mail Service Center,Raleigh,North
Carolina 27699-1612,for(check one):
Fla new surface mining permit,
a modification of an existing surface mining permit to add land to the permitted area;or
F]a modification of an existing surface mining permit to add land to the permitted area with no disturbance in
the area proposed. Please note that future modification(s)may be submitted by the applicant to allow
disturbance within this area without re-notification of adjoining landowners.
The applicant proposes to mine on acres located
(Mineral,Ore) (Number) (Number)
miles of off/near road
(Direction) (Nearest town) (Number,Name)
in County.
*SEE ATTACHED MAP FOR PROPOSED PERMIT BOUNDARIES AND CORRESPONDING ADJOINING LANDOWNER
NAMES AND LOCATIONS*
In accordance with G.S.74-50(bl),the mine operator is required to make a reasonable effort,satisfactory to the Department,to notify all
owners of record,both public and private,of all tracts of land that are adjoining the mining permit boundary;if an adjoining tract is owned or
leased by the applicant or is owned by the lessor of the mine tract,all owners of record of tracts adjoining these tracts must be notified(that are
within 1,000 feet of the mining permit boundary).In addition,the mine operator must also notify the chief administrative officer of the county or
municipality in which any part of the permitted area is located. Any person may file written comment(s)to the Department at the above address
within thirty(30)days of the issuance of this Notice or the filing of the application for a permit,whichever is later. Should the Department
determine that a significant public interest exists relative to G.S.74-51,a public hearing will be held within 60 days of the end of the 30-day
comment period specified above.
A copy of the permit application materials is on file and available for public review during normal business hours at the above listed address as
well as at the appropriate regional office.For information regarding the specifics of the proposed mining activity,please contact the
applicant at the following telephone number:
For information on the mining permit application review process,please contact the Mining Program staff at(919)707-9220. Please note that
the Department will consider any relevant written commentsidocumentation within the provisions of the Mining Act of 1971 throughout the
application review process until a final decision is made on the application.
Addressee/Owner of Record's Name and Address Name of Applicant.Include Contact Person&Company Name,if Applicable
Date of Issuance of this Notice/Mailed to Addressee/Owner of Record Address of Applicant
Revised September '], ?O?] P a 0 t 117

NORTH CAROLINA MINING State of North Carolina 1612 Mail Service Center
PERMIT APPLICATION Department of Environmental Quality Raleigh,NC 27699-1612
Division of Energy,Mineral,and Land Resources [phone]
AFFIDAVIT OF NOTIFICATION
If ,an applicant,or an agent,or employee of an applicant,for a
new Mining Permit,or a modification of an existing Mining Permit to add land to the permitted area,from the N.C.Department of
Environmental Quality,being first duly sworn,do hereby attest that the following are all known owners of record,both public and
private,of all tracts of land that are adjoining the mining permit boundary(including,where an adjoining tract is owned or leased
by the applicant or is owned by the lessor of the mine tract,all owners of record of tracts adjoining these tracts,that are within
1,000 feet of the mining permit boundary)and that notice of the pending application has been caused to be mailed,by certified or
registered mail,return receipt requested,to said owners of record at their addresses shown below,such notice being given on a
form provided by the Department:
Adjoining Landowner Name Address
Attach additional list if necessary,
do also attest that the following individual is the chief administrative officer of the county or municipality in which any part of the
permitted area is located and that notice of the pending application has been caused to be mailed,by certified or registered mail,
return receipt requested,to said office at the following address:
Chief Administrative Officer Name Address
(i.e.:City Manager,County Manager,Mayor,etc.)
The above attestation was made by me while under oath to provide proof satisfactory to the Department that a reasonable effort
has been made to notify all known owners of record,both public and private,of all tracts of land that are adjoining the mining
permit boundary(including,where an adjoining tract is owned or leased by the applicant or is owned by the lessor of the mine
tract,all owners of record of tracts adjoining these tracts,that are within 1,000 feet of the mining permit boundary)and the chief
administrative officer of the county or municipality in which any part of the permitted area is located in compliance with N.C.G.S.
74-50(b1)and 15A NCAC 5B.0004(d).I understand that it is the responsibility of the applicant to retain the receipts of mailing
showing that the above notices were caused to be mailed and to provide them to the Department upon request.
Signature of Applicant or Agent Date
If person executing Affidavit is an agent or employee of an applicant,provide the following information:
Name of Applicant
Title of person executing Affidavit
a Notary Public of the County of ,
State of North Carolina,do hereby certify that appeared before me this
day and under oath acknowledged that the above Affidavit was made by him/her.
Witness my hand and notarial seal,this day of 20
Notary: My commission expires:
Revi,Pd September 21, 2021 f' a, e 118

NORTH CAROLINA MINING State of North Carolina 1612 Mail Service Center
PERMIT APPLICATION Department of Environmental Quality Raleigh,NC 27699-1612
Division of Energy,Mineral,and Land Resources [phone]
G.LAND ENTRY AGREEMENT
We hereby grant to the Department or its appointed representatives the right of entry and travel upon our lands or operation
during regular business hours for the purpose of making necessary field inspections or investigations as may be reasonably
required in the administration of the Mining Act of 1971 pursuant to G.S.74-56.
We further grant to the Department or its appointed representatives the right to make whatever entries on the land as may be
reasonably necessary and to take whatever actions as may be reasonably necessary in order to carry out reclamation which the
operator has failed to complete in the event a band forfeiture is ordered pursuant to G.S.74-59.
LANDOWNER: APPLICANT:
Signature Signature"
Print Name Christopher Danauskas Print Name Christopher Danauskas
ride(if applicable) Site Director 'ride Site Director
Company(if applicable) Albemarle U.S., Inc. Company Albemarle U.S., Inc.
Address 348 Holiday Inn Drive Mine Name Kings Mountain Mine-East
Kings Mountain, INC 28086 Telephone [phone]
Telephone [phone] Date Signed 5-1(yf 2-3
Date Signed J 't(yI?-5
'Signature must be the same as the individual who signed Page 1 of this application.
One original and five(5)copies of the completed application six(6)copies of all location maps mine maps and
reclamation maps,and the appropriate processing fee in the form a check or money order payable to the North Carolina
Department of Environmental Quality must be sent to the Raleigh Central Office at the address listed on the front cover
of this application form.
Inquiries regarding the status of the review of this application should be directed to the Mining Program staff at(919)707-9220.
Revised Septeniber 21, 2021 P a c e 119

RECEIVED
REVISED ATTACHMENT A
Kings Mountain Mine-East MAY 2 3 2923
Permit Number 23-01
Additional Information LAND QUALITY
MODIFICATION HISTORY MINING PROGRAM
• April 1, 1999: Corporate name change from Cypress Foote Mineral Company to Chemetall Foote
Corporation. Changes to reclamation plan in conformance to update Mine Map dated November
1998 and corresponding Mine Remediation Plan dated November 20, 1998, with stipulation that a
detailed status report on the permanent disposal of radioactive waste onsite as provided by the
January 8,1997 letter from the Department shall be submitted by April 16, 1999.
• February 27,2001: Modification to approve the closure of the radioactive mining refuse disposal
activity on the site, with specific conditions.
• May 31, 2002: Modification to reduce the affected acreage to 9.6 acres and the permitted acreage
to 830.21 acres as indicated on the mine map dated January 16, 2002, and the Chemetall Foote
Kings Mountain Operations Plant Boundaries map dated March 2002, the modification changed
the operation from an industrial mineral mine to a sand tailing mine, resulting in permit condition
changes. Lastly, a partial release of 141.70 acres was approved.
• December 18,2002: Permit modified to reduce permitted and affected to 626.01 acres and 0.00
acres respectively, (as indicated on the Property Boundaries Map dated November 12, 2002) by
splitting this mining permit int two separate mining permits. The two mining permits will be referred
to as Kings Mountain Mine -East (Mining Permit No. 23-10) and Kings Mountain -West (Mining
Permit No. 23-34). The modification changed the operation from a sand tailing mine back to an
industrial mineral mine and the status of the site to inactive.
• May 2, 2005: Partial release of 5.0 acres, as indicated on the mine map dated January 25, 20055
brining the permitted acreage to 621.21 acres.
• February 14, 2013: Inactive renewal of the mine permit and corporate name change from
Chemetall Foote Corporation to Rockwood Lithium, Inc.
• July 26,2017:Increased affected acreage to 3.5 acres including 1.0 acre for access roads and 2.5
acres for drill pads and laydown and support areas. All disturbed areas to be protected with
appropriate erosion and sediment control devices.
• December 1, 2017. Permit issued for life of the site.
• April 20, 2018: Increased affected acreage to 7.5 acres by addition of 4.0 acres for Phase 2
exploratory drilling activities, including 2.0 acres for access roads and 2.0 acres for drill pads and
laydown and support areas. All disturbed areas to be protected with appropriate erosion and
sediment control devices.
PROPOSED MODIFICATION
The proposed modification will increase the affected acreage to 18.5 acres. The permitted area will remain
at 614,31. The modification includes a total of 11.0 acres for clearing of drill pads, access paths, laydown
yards, and similar activities conducted during Calendar Year 2022 and proposed activities to be conducted
in Calendar Year 2023.
2022 Activities
This application includes approximately 4.0 acres of disturbance for the 2022 drilling activity including 1.70
acres for access paths (roads) and 2.30 acres for drill pads and laydown and support areas. All 2022
activities were protected with appropriate erosion and sediment control devices. The 2022 activities are
identified on the attached Mine Map(s).
2023 Activities
Activities to be conducted in Calendar Year 2023 are identified on the attached Mine Map(s). Locations
identified are tentative. Specific locations may slightly vary based on site conditions such as slope and
heavy vegetative cover. Approximately 7.0 acres are proposed to be affected for the 2023 activities

including 2.8 acres for access paths (roads) and 4.2 acres for drill pads and laydown and support areas.
All disturbed areas will be protected with appropriate erosion and sediment control devices.
The total requested affected acreage, including 2022 and 2023 activities, is 11.0 acres (4.50 acres for
access paths(roads)and 6.5 acres for drill pads, laydown, and support areas.
The Annual Mine Reports will provide an accounting of actual affected acreage for the 2022 and 2023
activities and will identify location and affected acreage of the clearing conducted for access paths (roads)
and drill pads and laydown and support areas.
A. GENERAL CHARACTERISTICS OF THE MINE
2.Name of all materials mined:
Mining of materials within the East Permit Boundary was halted in the 1980's and no further mining
of materials have been conducted since.'
3. Mining Method:
No mining of any materials will be conducted with this modification.The activities proposed under
this modification include 2022 drilling activities that were conducted in the same manner as
activities approved in the July 25, 2017, and April 23, 2018, modifications. The proposed 2023
activities will include both resource and geotechnical drill pad preparation, access paths (roads),
as needed, to drill locations, and associated support areas such as laydown yards. Area cleared
for drill pads will be approximately 40' X 80'. Access paths (roads) to drill pad locations may be
required from within the existing internal road network and will not exceed 30' in width. Laydown
and other support areas, as needed, are proposed not to exceed 100'X 100'.
Resource/exploratory drilling will use water recirculation. A sump will be constructed on the drill
pad for capture and treatment of water. The typical sump will be 4' x 4' and 3.5' deep and will act
as a settling pond. Water from the drilling activities will discharge to the sump and be recirculated.
Overflow from the sump (clear water) will discharge across the drill pad and be controlled by the
erosion control measures specified for the location to ensure that no sediment containing water will
reach waters of the State. Typical plan view and cross-section are provided on the attached Mine
Map(s).
C. PROTECTION OF NATURAL RESOURCES
2. Describe the specific erosion control measures to be installed prior to land disturbing
activities and during mining to prevent offsite sedimentation (include specific plans for
sediment and erosion control for mine excavation(s), waste piles, access/mine roads, and
process areas), and give a detailed sequence of installation and schedule for maintenance
of the measures. Locate and label all sediment and erosion control measures on the mine
map(s) and provide typical cross-sections/construction details of each measure.
Engineering designs and calculations are required to justify the adequacy of any proposed
measures:
No mining of materials is proposed with this modification. Similar to previous drilling activities
modifications (July 25, 2017, and April 23, 2018), appropriate erosion and sediment control
measures will be implemented based on the location of the drill pad,access path(road)and support
areas. Erosion and sediment control measures are as follows:
Type A: Adjacent to Wetland or Stream: For those disturbance areas adjacent to wetlands or
streams, a combination of silt fence and straw wattles or hay bales will be installed on the
downstream side of the disturbed area to prevent sediment from entering wetlands or streams. On
sloped areas, a combination of silt fence and straw wattles or hay bales may also be installed on
the upstream side to allow run off to bypass(go around)the disturbed area.

l
v
Type B: Not Adjacent to Wetland or Streams: For those disturbance areas located in an area that
is distant from waters of the State, but where slopes and topography could cause runoff in the
direction of water of the State. Straw wattles or hay bales will be installed on the down slope side
of the disturbed areas to prevent erosion and sedimentation across the landscape. On significantly
sloped areas, erosion and sediment control measures may also be installed on the upslope side of
the disturbed areas to attenuate runoff from upslope areas from entering the area of disturbance.
Type C: Internal Drainage: These disturbed areas are not connected to State waters and drain to
existing internal features such as the abandoned mine pit and other man-made impoundments. No
erosion or sediment control devices are proposed for these areas.
Typical details of these Types are provided on the attached Mine Map(s).
S. B) A minimum 50 foot wide undisturbed buffer will be required between any land
disturbing activities within the mining permit boundaries and any natural watercourses and
wetlands unless smaller undisturbed buffers can be justified. Depending on site conditions,
a buffer wider than 50 feet may be needed.
How wide an undisturbed buffer will be maintained between any land disturbing activities
with the mining permit boundaries and any natural watercourses and wetlands at the site?
Show all buffer locations and widths on the mine map(s):
A 50-foot buffer is proposed between disturbed areas and natural watercourses and wetlands and
is shown on the Mine Map(s).A 25-foot buffer is proposed between disturbed areas and man-made
lakes and impoundments as these areas are primarily internal drainage with no discharge to waters
of the State.
12.Will fuel tanks,solvents,or other chemical reagents be stored on-site?if yes, describe
these materials,how they will be stored and method of containment in case of spill.
Indicate the location(s)of all storage facilities on the mine map(s).
Fuel tanks, solvents, and other chemical reagents are stored in the plant facility that is located
within the permit boundary. The plant facility is not a part of any mining associated with the site,
but rather receives materials from domestic and international markets for further processing.
Detailed locations of fuels tanks,solvents, and other chemical reagents is provided on the Mine
Map(s). Appendix C Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan provides details of storage and
method of containment in the case of a spill.
D. RECLAMATION PLAN
3_Describe provisions for safety to persons and to adjoining property in all completed
excavations in rock including what kind of permanent barricade will be left.Acceptable
permanent barricades are appropriate fencing, large boulders placed end-to-end,etc.
Construction details and locations of all permanent barricades must be shown on the
reclamation map.
Currently the permit area is surrounded by vegetative berms and forested areas. High walls at the
mine pit lake are currently surrounded by a locked chain-link security fence.The reclamation plan
includes installing a chain-link security fence around the perimeter of the permit boundary except
where the permit boundary adjoins the west mine permit boundary. The location of the security
fence is provided'on the Reclamation Map(s). Impoundments that remain from previous mining
activities are gradually sloped (3H:1 V or greater)with vegetated wetland fringes. For those areas
deeper than 10 ft., permanent access points will be provided. These are shown on the
Reclamation Map(s).
4.Indicate the method(s)of reclamation of overburden, refuse,spoil banks or other such
on-site mine waste areas, including specifications for benching and sloping. Final cross-
sections and locations for such areas must be provided on the reclamation map.

c
Mining on the project site was halted in the 1980's and no mining has occurred since that time.
Overburden, refuse, spoil banks, and other waste areas slopes are stable.These areas are also
heavily vegetated as either forested uplands or herbaceous uplands by natural recruitment.
The forested upland community is a mix of deciduous and evergreen forest species including
American sweetgum(Liquidambar styraciflua), loblolly pine(Pinus taeda),tulip tree(Liriodendron
tulipifera),American beech (Fagus grandifolia), black cherry(Prunus serotina), red maple(Acer
rubrum),white oak(Quercus a/ba), red oak(Quercus rubra), mockernut hickory (Carya
tomentosa), and chestnut oak(Quercus montana). Understory species commonly observed in the
forested areas are flowering dogwood (Corpus florida), greenbrier(Smilax spp.), blackberry
(Rubus spp.), spicebush(Lindera benzoin), and various successional hardwoods (oaks,
hickories, sweetgum, maples).
The herbaceous upland community consist of non-wetland areas dominated by non-woody
vegetation. Dominant herbaceous species include broom-sedge(Andropogon virginicus),wild
garlic/onion (Allium spp.), Kentucky bluegrass(Poa pratensis), goldenrod (So/idago spp.),
clover(Trifolium spp.), hemp dogbane(Apocynum cannabinum),Japanese honeysuckle
(Lonicera japonica), American burnweed (Erechtites hieraciifolia),wild strawberry
(Fragaria virginiana), and southern crabgrass(Digitaria ciliaris).
These areas are shown on the Reclamation Map(s).
5.A)Describe reclamation of processing facilities,stockpile areas,and on-site roadways.
The plant facility, office area, and paved entrance road will be left for future potential users. On-
site dirt roadways will be vegetated with native seed material including:
Seeding Seeding
Seed Mix Type Dates Rates
NC Steep Slope Mix(ERNMX-310) all dates 45 Ibs/acre
Native Habitat Strip Mine Mix(ERNMX-111) all dates 20 Ibs/acre
Native Steep Slope w annual rye(ERNMX- Feb 15-Aug
181) 15 60lbs/acre
Native Steep Slope w grain rye(ERNMX-181- Aug 15-Feb
2) 16 75 Ibs/acre
These areas are shown on the Reclamation Map(s)
B)Will any on-site roadways be left as part of the reclamation?!f yes,identify such
roadways on the reclamation map and provide details on permanent road and ditch line
stabilization.
The current paved entrance road to the office area and plant facility will remain. Internal dirt roads
will be revegetated as indicated in the response above.
6.Describe the method of control of contaminants and disposal of scrap metal,junk
machinery,cables,or other such waste products of mining.(Note definition of refuse in
The Mining Act of 1971.) No off-site generated waste shall be disposed of on the mine site
without prior written approval from the NC Department of Environmental Quality, Division
of Energy,Mineral,and Land Resources and either the Division of Waste Management
(DWM)or local governing body.If a disposal permit has been issued by DWM for the site,
a copy of said permit must be attached to this application.All temporary and permanent
refuse disposal areas must be clearly delineated on the mine map(s)and reclamation map,
along with a list of items to be disposed in said areas.

No mining has been conducted on the East Mine area since the 1980's.All mining related waste
has been previously removed from the site and appropriately disposed of.
DETERMINATION OF AFFECTED ACREAGE AND BOND
Total Reclamation Bond Cost: In lieu of calculation of a specific bond amount as based on
disturbance,Albemarle has elected to voluntarily provide a bond in the amount of$1,000,000(the
maximum bond amount that could be assessed) to cover reclamation costs associated with the
West Mine (Permit 23-24) and the East Mine (Permit 23-01). A copy of the bond is provided as
Exhibit 1.

EXHIBIT 1
SURETY RIDER
To be attached to and form a part of
Bond No. 9250503
dated May 26,2017
effective
(MONTH-DAY-YEAR)
executed by Albemarle U.S.Inc. ,as Principal,
(PRINCIPAL)
and by Fidelity and Deposit Company of Maryland ,as Surety,
in favor of State of North Carolina
(OBLIGEE)
in consideration of the mutual agreements herein contained the Principal and the Surety hereby consent to changing
The Bond Amount from:
One Hundred Seventy-one Thousand Nine Hundred&00/100($171,900.00)
To:
One Million&001100($1,000,000.00)
Nothing herein contained shall vary,alter or extend any provision or condition of this bond except as herein expressly stated.
This rider December 14,2022
is effective
(MONTH-DAY-YEAR)
Signed and Sealed December 14,2022
(MONTH-DAY-YEAR)
Albemarle U.S.Inc.
( IN
By:
(PRINCIPAL)
Fidelity and Deposit Company of Maryland
(SURET ,gyp.o,vy.of,
/ V o
By:
Sa h ajor,Attomey-in-Fact ttw j
0
S-0443/GEEF 10199

I�
ZURICH AMERICAN INSURANCE COMPANY
COLONIAL AMERICAN CASUALTY AND SURETY COMPANY
FIDELITY AND DEPOSIT COMPANY OF MARYLAND
POWER OF ATTORNEY
W ALL MEN BY THESE PRESENTS:That the ZURICIi AMERICAN INSURANCE COMPANY,a corporation of the State of New
I
e COLONIAL AMERICAN CASUALTY AND SURETY COMPANY, a corporation of the State of Illinois, and the FIDELITY
p DEPOSIT COMPANY OF MARYLAND a corporation of the State of Illinois (herein collcrxively called the "Companies"), by
eRD.Murray,Vice President,in pursuance of authority granted by Article V,Section 8,of the By-Laws of said Companies,which
etforth on the reverse side hereof and are hereby certified to be in full force and effect on the date hereof, do hereby nominate,
n ute, and appoint Sarah Major its true and lawful
t and Attorney-in-Fact,to make,execute,seal and deliver, for,and on its behalf as surety,and as its act and deed: any and all bonds
an undertakings,and the execution of such bonds or undertakings in pursuance of these presents,shall be as binding upon said Companies,
as fully and amply,to all intents and purposes,as if they had been duly executed and acknowledged by the regularly elected officers of the
ZURICH AMERICAN INSURANCE COMPANY at its office in New York,New York..the regularly elected officers of the COLONIAL
AMERICAN CASUALTY AND SURETY COMPANY at its office in Owings Mills, Maryland.,and the regularly elected officers of the
FIDELITY AND DEPOSIT COMPANY OF MARYLAND at its office in Owings Mills, Maryland.,in their own proper persons.
The said Vice President does hereby certify that the extract set forth on the reverse side hereof is a true copy of Article V,Section R,of
the By-Laws of said Companies,and is now in force.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF,the said Vice-President has hereunto subscribed hisrher names and affixed the Corporate Seals of the said
ZURICH AMERICAN INSURANCE COMPANY, COLONIAL. AMERICAN CASUALTY AND SURETY COMPANY, and
FIDELITY AND DEPOSIT COMPANY OF MARYLAND,this I 1 th day of July,A.D.2019.
: io. ss1►I
ATTEST:
ZURICH AMERICAN INSURANCE COMPANY
COLONIAL AMERICAN CASUALTY AND SURETY COMPANY
�j FIDELITY AND DEPOSIT COMPANY OF MARYLAND
—v
By: Robert D.Murray
Vice President
By: Dawn E.Brown
Secretary
State of Maryland
County of Baltimore
On this I Ith day of July, A.D.2019, before the subscriber,a Notary Public of the State of Maryland,duly commissioned and qualified,Robert D.
Murray,Vice President and Dawn E.Brown,Secretary of the Companies,to me personally known to be the individuals and officers described in and who
executed the preceding instrument,and acknowledged the execution of same,and being by me duly sworn,deposeth and saith.that he/she is the said officer of
the Company aforesaid,and that the seals affixed to the preceding instrument are the Corporate Seals of said Companies,and that the said Corporate Seals and
the signature as such officer were duly affixed and subscribed to the said instrument by the authority and direction of the said Corporations.
IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF,I have hereunto set my hand and affixed my Official Seal the day and year first above written.
.nv
,` Constance A.Dunn,Norm Public
">r" � My Commission Expires:July Y,2023

EXTRACT FROM BY-LAWS OF THE COMPANIES
.te v.Section 8,Attomevs-in-Fact. The Chief Executive Officer.the President,or any Executive Vice President or Vice President
written instrument under the attested corporate seal, appoint attomeys-in-fact with authority to execute bonds, policies,
lances,stipulations, undertakings,or other like instruments on behalf of the Company, and may authorize any officer or any such
ry-in-fact to affix the corporate seat thereto;and may with or without cause modify of revoke any such appointment or authority at any
e."
CERTIFICATE
1, the undersigned, Vice President of the ZURICH AMERICAN INSURANCE COMPANY, the COLONIAL AMERICAN
CASUALTY AND SURETY COMPANY,and the FIDELITY AND DEPOSIT COMPANY OF MARYLAND,do hereby certify that the
foregoing Power or Attorney is still in full force and effect on the date of this certificate;and 1 do further certify that Article V,Section 8,of
the By-Laws of the Companies is still in force.
This Power of Attorney and Certificate may be signed by facsimile under and by authority of the following resolution of the Board of
Directors of the ZURICH AMERICAN INSURANCE COMPANY at a meeting duly called and held on the 15th day of December 1998.
RESOLVED: "That the signature of the President or a Vice President and the attesting signature of a Secretary or an Assistant Secretary
and the Seal of the Company may be affixed by facsimile on any Power of Attorney...Any such Power or any certificate thereof bearing such
facsimile signature and seal shall be valid and binding on the Company."
This Power of Attorney and Certificate may be signed by facsimile under and by authority of the following resolution of the Board of
Directors of the COLONIAL AMERICAN CASUALTY AND SURETY COMPANY at a meeting duly called and held on the Sth day of
May, 1994,and the following resolution of the Board of Directors of the FIDELITY AND DEPOSIT COMPANY OF MARYLAND at a
meeting duly called and held on the I0th day of May,1990.
RESOLVED: "That the facsimile or mechanically reproduced seal of the company and facsimile or mechanically reproduced signature
of any Vice-President,Secretary,or Assistant Secretary of the Company,whether made heretofore or hereafter,wherever appearing upon a
certified copy of any power of attorney issued by the Company,shall be valid and binding upon the Company with the same force and effect
as though manually affixed.
IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF,I have hereunto subscribed my name and affixed the corporate seals of the said Companies,
this 14th day of December 2022 -
(r 5;ALN
Brian M.Hodges,Vice President
TO REPORT A CLAIM WITH REGARD TO A SURETY BOND,PLEASE SUBMIT A COMPLETE DESCRIPTION
OF THE CLAIM INCLUDING THE PRINCIPAL ON THE BOND,THE BOND NUMBER,AND YOUR CONTACT
INFORMATION TO:
Zurich Surety Claims
1299 Zurich Way
Schaumburg.IL 60196-1056
W w W.rcoortsfclaims(r2�zurichna.com
800-626-4577

APPENDIX A RECEIVED
A ALBEMARLE® NAY 2 3 1023
Albemarle Corporation J.Kent M LAND QUALITY
4250 Congress Street,Suite 900 Chief Executive�0$icPBfOGP,AM
Charlotte,North Carolina 28209-4865 [e-mail]
February 16, 2023
Delegation of Authority for Reports to be Filed
By Albemarle U.S.Inc.-KinusMountain,North Carolina
Effective immediately,I, Kent Masters,Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the
Board of Albemarle Corporation, hereby delegate to Mr. Christopher Danauskus the
authority to sign any and all reports and/or documents which are required to be or
may be filed on behalf of Albemarle U.S., Inc.'s plant located in Kings Mountain,
North Carolina under permits or licenses issued by:
Department of the Treasury, Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and
Trade Bureau North Carolina Department of Environment and
Conservation
U.S.Department of Homeland Security
U.S.Department of Transportation
U.S.Environmental Protection Agency
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
U.S.Drug Enforcement Administration
Mr.Danauskas is the Site Director of Albemarle U.S.,Inc.'s Kings Mountain Plant
and is responsible for the entire operation of the facility.
This Delegation of Authority shall remain in effect for the duration of the permits
referenced above unless earlier revoked. Any such revocation will be by written
notification from the undersigned.
J. Kent Masters
ALBEMARLE CORPORATION
Chief Executive Officer
cc: Christopher Danauskas
Andrew Waaso
David Lima