20230804_Application

Appendix IV - North Carolina Mining Permit Application

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 Central Office for a PRE-
APPLICATION MEETING to discuss your intentions and address any questions.
1. Name of Mine The Quartz Corp. USA-Spruce Pine
County Mitchell River Basin French Broad
Latitude(decimal degrees to four
places) 35.9020
Longitude(decimal degrees to four
places) -82.0640
2. Name of Applicant The Quartz Corp. USA
Applicant Contact Jeffrey Curtis Consultant Contact Cedric H. Ruhl, P.E.
Applicant Email [e-mail] Email [e-mail]
Telephone [phone] Telephone [phone]
Cell Phone [phone] Cell Phone [phone]
3. Permanent Address for Receipt of
Official Mail** PO Box 309 Spruce Pine, North Carolina 28777
4. Mine Office Address 797 Altapass Highway Spruce Pine, North Carolina 28777
5. Mine Manager Todd Mickleborough
Mine Manager Email [e-mail]
Telephone [phone] Cell Phone
I 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.
i nn
Signature*** (cart Date 07/28/2023
Print Name J04 Curtis
Title ' hief Financial Officer
*This will be the name that the mining permit will be issued to and the name that must be indicated on the reclamation bond isc:_d'-, 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.
Revised September 21,2021 Page 11

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:
El 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:
This is an application for a MODIFICATION to a mining permit.
Mining Permit Number: 61-16 Total permitted acreage: 109.41 Acres
Does the modification involve acreage within the previously approved permitted boundary?
©YES ❑NO
If yes,indicate the acreage to be covered by this modification 1.13 Acres
Does the modification involve acrea a outside the previously approved permitted boundary?
©YES NO
If yes,indicate the additional acreage to be covered by this modification 6.56 Acres
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?
xi YES RNO
If yes,indicate the acreage to be affected within the acreage to be added to the permit 1.40 Acres
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.
This is an application for TRANSFER.of a mining permit
Mining Permit Number: _ Total permitted acreage:
Revised September 21, 2021 P a g e 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]
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 kVications $3 750.00 $5 000.00
Permit Modifications $750.00 _ $1,000.00
Permit Transfers $100.00 $100.00
Annual Operating Fee $400.00 $400.00 I
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
previousfy approved permitted boundary.
2. Name of all materials mined: NIA
3. Mining Method:
Hydraulic Dredge Front-end Loader&Truck Shovel&Truck
❑Dragline&Truck Self-loading Scraper Excavator&Truck
Xj Other(please explain): No mining to be done relating to this modification
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?
YESn NO
If yes,when and by whom was this activity conducted?
6. Estimated life of the operation(years): _
NOTE:The Department may request clarification on how life of mine was calculated.
Revised September 21, 2021 Page 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 16)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.,51^Floor
Raleigh,NC 27699-1612 Raleigh,NC 27604
Http://Dortal.ncdenr.orglweb/Irlgeological 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,NG 27699-1587 Raleigh,NC 27610
http:1lwww.ncdotrg1iit1gis [phone]
2. A table/chart 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 affectedldisturbed 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 modifications,complete all columns.
CATEGORY CURRENT AFFECTED PROPOSED CHANGE TO TOTAL AFFECTED
ACREAGE AFFECTED ACREAGE _ ACREAGE
Tailings/Sediment Ponds 0.06 0.06
Stockpiles 1.90 1.90
Waste piles
Processing Areas/Haul Roads 12.58 1.40 13.98
Mine Excavations 2.45 2.45
j Other(Please explain) 1.13 1.13
Total Affected Acreage 16.99 2.53 19.52
Total Permitted Acreage 109.41 6.56 115.97
Revised September 21, 2021 P a g e 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) Properly 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 andlor 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 quesdons/statements)in this application form.This
application will not be considered complete without all relevant items being adequately addressed on the mine
maps.
Revised September 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.
See additional information on next page.
2. Describe specific erosion control measures to be installed prior to land disturbing activities and during mining to
prevent offsite sedimentation(include specifrc 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.
Erosion control device locations, installation details,and maintenance requirements are shown
on the Drawings. Erosion control measures are anticipated to include the following: silt fence,
reinforced silt fence,compost filter socks,construction entrance,erosion control blanket or
flexible growth media,temporary bridge and coffer dam.
3. A)Will the operation involve washin the material mined,recycling process water,or other wastewater handling?
FX]YES ri NO
If yes,briefly describe all such processes including any chemicals to be used.
A temporary holding basin is to be constructed that will be an approximate 715,000 gallon
reservoir with a double-liner system that can temporarily store wastewater effluent during
outages of the primary treatment system. The wastewater stored in the basin will be pumped
back to the treatment system as early as practical. No chemicals will be used.
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 FNO
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).
Revised September 21, 2021 Page 16
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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]
Addlllorlal lntimatlon
Please use the space below to provide additional information to answer the questions in the application. Please clearly
indicate which question is being continued on the additional space.
4.1.1 Construction
1. Ensure all applicable permits have been obtained.
2. Notify the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality(NCDEQ)Mining Program prior to land disturbance:
Shawna Riddle,828-296-4617,[e-mail].
3. Hold pre-construction meeting if requested by NCDEQ.
4. Prior to any site disturbance activities(clearing,grubbing,grading,or excavation),install erosion and sediment control
measures.Compost filter socks can be installed as a silt fence alternative if site constraints dictate.
5. Begin construction activities.Ensure all disturbed areas drain towards an installed erosion and sediment control device.
6. Place compacted fill to meet design grades where necessary.
7. Upon completion of construction stabilize disturbed areas in accordance with the seeding specifications or as shown on
the Drawings.
8. Inspect all erosion control devices at weekly intervals and after every rainfall exceeding 1.0-in.within any 24-hour period
to verify that they are functioning properly.Any accumulated sediment shall be removed and placed in a designated
spoil disposal area.Conduct periodic inspections of all erosion and sedimentation controls and make any repairs or
modifications necessary to assure continued effective operation of each device.
4.1.2 E&SC and Construction(Stream/Culvert Installation)
9. Temporarily remove E&SC measures to facilitate culvert installation.
10. Install coffer dams according to plans and dewater ditch using pumps and filter bags if necessary.Any dewatering shall
be done through filter bags.
11. Contractor shall access stream for placement of coffer dam by foot within limits of disturbance shown on the plans.
12. Setup pumps interior of coffer dam,hoses,filter bags,intakes,and diffusers as shown on the detail and in a location as
directed by the owner's on-site representative.
13. Prepare area for coffer dam by removing rocks and debris within streambed in order to prepare a level,depressed area
for placement of coffer dams.Reserve any streambed material for replacement when coffer dams are removed.
14. Continue stacking sandbags as tightly as possible as shown on the detail until the upstream coffer dam is in place and
secure.
15. Contractor shall ensure tight seal of sandbag coffer dam during all phases of installation.
16. Sandbags should be placed along the edges of the coffer dam to keep water from cutting around the coffer dam.
17. Concurrently.install the downstream coffer dam in the same manner.
18. With temporary dewatering piping,pump,fitter bag,and compost filter sock in place,begin pumping water from between
the coffer dams.Keep pump set up in place during construction to continue pumping if necessary.Additional pump
equipment,fitter bags,and compost filter socks should be on-hand in the event of stone events.
19. Contractor shall monitor weather and work in dry conditions to the best extent possible.Contractor is responsible for
stabilizing the construction site to the best extent practical during a storm event.
20. Excavate for the culvert structure.Strip substrate and stockpile.Excavate subgrade soil and stockpile.Undercut and
replace existing soft fill or residual soils beneath culvert area with compacted structural fill materials as required by pipe
specifications.
21. The culvert structure shall be installed in accordance with manufacturers specifications.
22. Culvert backfilling shall be performed in accordance with the engineered filllbackfill requirements.
23. Where indicated,install coir matting,reinstall silt fence or compost filter sock,and install slope matting.
24. Finalize crossing construction activities per plans.
25. Remove timber maters(if utilized).
26, Remove downstream coffer dam(if utilized).Replace any stockpiled streambed material.
27. Continue pumping any sediment laden material through the filter bag.
28. Remove upstream coffer dam and replace stockpiled streambed material.
29. Apply soil amendments,seed,and mulch to remaining disturbed areas according to the seeding specifications.
4.1.3 E&SC and Construction(Temporary Holding Basin)
30. Clear and grub extents of temporary holding basin.Excavate to meet design grades where necessary.
31. Smooth temporary holding basin irregularities of the subgrade as shown on the plans.Install the geomembrane liner per
the manufacturers specifications.Extend liner into anchor trench as shown on the detail,and grade to final grades as
indicated on the plans.Place compacted fill to meet design grades where necessary.
32. Install influent and effluent pipes from the temporary holding basin to the facility as shown on the plans.
4.1.4 Close Out
33. Finalize construction activities.
34. Seed,amend soils,and mulch disturbed areas with seeding.
35. Establish permanent vegetation in disturbed areas.
36. Upon establishment of permanent vegetation remove temporary erosion control measures,as applicable.Temporary
matting,if used,shall be left in place.
Revised September 21, 2021 P a g e i Additional Information
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NORTH CAROLINA MINING State of North Carolina 1612 Mail Service Center
PERMIT APPLICATION Department of Environmental Quality Raleigh,NC 27699-1 612
Division of Energy,Mineral,and Land Resources [phone]
C)Will any part of the proposed mine excavation(s)extend below the water table?
1-1 YES © NO
If yes,do you intend to dewater the excavation(s)?
YES ❑ 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.
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,Stonwater,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.
4. A)Will the operation involve crushing or any other air contaminant emissions?
YES FX
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.
B)How will dust from stockpiles,haul roads,etc.,be controlled?
During construction,water trucks or other means that may be necessary shall be utilized to
prevent dust from leaving the permitted area.
Revised September 21, 2021 P a g e 17
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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-ray 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 an the mine map(s).
An undisturbed buffer of 25 feet is incorporated where the mine permit extents adjoin property
not owned by The Quartz Corp,with the exception of the proposed driveway access at NC
Highway 226.
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 bufferlocations and widths on the mine
map(s).
An undisturbed buffer of 25 feet is incorporated around any natural watercourses and wetlands
within the permit boundary. Erosion control measures will be used in addition to these buffers to
reduce any potential off-site sediment.
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.
The angle for graded slopes and fills shall be no greater than the angle which can be retained by
vegetative cover or other adequate erosion control measure,structure, or device. In any event,
exposed slopes or any excavated channels,the erosion of which may cause off-site damage
because of siltation,shall be planted or otherwise provided with groundcover, devices or
structures sufficient to restrain such erosion.
B)Provide a cross-section on the mine map(s)for all fill 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 21, 2021 Page ) 8
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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 excavations)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).
Cut slopes shall be graded to a minimum 2 horizontal to 1 vertical or flatter and shall be
stabilized per the plans.
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 beaches and mine benches,and the
expected maximum depth of the excavation.
NIA
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.
NIA
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 detaillcross-section and location of each type of barricade to be used must be
indicated on the mine map(s).
NIA
9. Are acid roducing minerals or soils present?
YES ©NO
If yes,how will acid water pollution from the excavation,stockpiles,and waste areas be controlled?
Revised September 21, 2021 P a g e 19
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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.
Existing vegetation shall be maintained between the facility and public thoroughfares to screen
the operation from the public. Additional screening methods,such as constructing earthen
berms,shall be employed as deemed appropriate by the Department.A gate and fence will be
installed to keep public off the proposed access road.
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?
NIA
11. Will ex losives be used?
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 structure(s)to the proposed excavation(s)on the mine
map and indicate its approximate distance to the proposed excavation.
12. Will fuel tanks,solvents,or other chemical reagents be stored on-site?
YES FXINO
If yes,describe these materials,how they will be stored and method of containment in case of spill.Indicate the
locations)of all storage facilities on the mine map(s).
Revised September 21, 2021 Page 110
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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 location(s)of all permanent channels must be indicated on the reclamation map.
See previous permit regarding approved reclamation plan.
2. Is an excavated or impounded b of water to be left as part of the reclamation?
YES body
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?
YES RNO
If yes,specify species.
See previous permit regarding approved reclamation plan.
3. Describe provisions for safety to persons and to adjoining property in all completed excavations in rock induding 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.
See previous permit regarding approved reclamation plan. Regarding the modifications under
this modification, a gate and fence will be installed to keep public off the proposed access road.
Revised September 21, 2021 P a g e 11
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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.
See previous permit regarding approved reclamation plan.
5. A)Describe reclamation of processing facilities,stockpile areas,and on-site roadways.
See previous permit regarding approved reclamation plan.
B)Will any on-site roadways be left as part of the reclamation?
YES F ]NO
if yes,identify such roadways on the reclamation map and provide details on permanent road and ditch fine
stabilization.
See previous permit regarding approved reclamation plan. Regarding the modifications under
this modification,the proposed access roadway will be the main access to the additional
property included within this permit modification.
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.ff 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 previous permit regarding approved reclamation plan.
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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(tonslacre):
Fertilizer Analysts and Rate of Application(lbslacre): _
Seed type(s)and rate(s)of application included Year-round seeding schedule(lbslacre):
NOTE:Include legumes
_ SEED TYPES SEEDING DATES SEEDING RATES
I
I
Mulch Type,Rate of Application(lbslacre),and Method of Anchoring:
Other Vegetative Cover(s)Type(s)and Rate(s)of Application Including Seeding Schedule(lbslacre,trees/
acre,spacing of trees/shrubs,etc.):
Revegetation and/or reforestation plan approved by:
Signature Date
Print Name
Title
Agency
Disturbed areas shall be permanently revegetated according to the Revegetation Plan prepared and
submitted under the existing permit.
Revised September 21, 2021 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 minim;on oration that,:u intend to affect
during the life of this mining permit(in addition,please insert the appropriate reclamation cost(ac►e for each category from the
Schedule of Reclamation Costs provided with this arplication fbr0 OR rou can defer to the Department to calculate your bond
for you based upon your maps and standard reclamation costs:
CATEGORY AFFECTED RECLAMATION RECLAMATION
ACREAGE COSTIACRE COST
Tailings/Sediment Ponds Ac. X $ /Ac. = $ 0.00
Stockpiles Ac. X $ IAc. = $ 0.00
Waste Piles Ac. X $ IAc. = $ 0.00
Processing ArealHaul Roads 1.40 Ac. X $ lAc. = $ 0.00
Mine Excavation Ac. X $ IAc. = $ 0.00
Other 1.13 Ac. X $ lAc. = $ 0.00
TOTAL AFFECTED AC.: 2.53 Ac.
TOTAL PERMITTED AC.: 6.56 Ac.
Temporary S 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 oifsite
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:
TOTAL RECLAMATION BOND COST a SUBTOTAL+INFLATION a $0.00
Round down to the nearest$100.00
NOTE:The reclamation bond cannot exceed$1 million per GS 74-54
The security,which was posted pursuant to N.C.G.S. 74-54, is approved under the existing permit.
Revised September 21, 2021 Page 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 KyanitelSillimanitelAndalusite AU Gold
CS Crushed Stone LI Lithium PH Phosphate TI Titanium
OT Other
TYPE TIS PONDS STOCKPILES WASTE PILES P.AREA/H.R. MINE EXCAVATION
SG,GS,Borrow $500/ac.(L) $18001ac. $20001ac. $18001ac. $5001ac.(L)
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) 2500 5000 5000 2000(L)
PH 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(Ff) 25Q0 3Q00 3500 5040(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 513.0003,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 September 21,2021 Page 115

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"
Revised September 21, 2021 P a g e 116

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
The Quartz Corp USA has applied on 07/28/2023 _ 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):
❑a new surface mining permit,
Fa modification of an existing surface mining permit to add land to the permitted area;or
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 N/A on 0.00 acres located 1.00
(Mineral,Ore) (Number) (Number)
miles South of Spruce Pine off/near road NC Highway 226
(Direction) (Nearest town) (Number,Name)
in Mitchell County.
*SEE ATTACHED MAP FOR PROPOSED PERMIT BOUNDARIES AND CORRESPONDING ADJOINING LANDOWNER
NAMES AND LOCATIONS*
In accordance with G.S.74-50(b1),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 feel 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 wrnment(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: 828-7$5-$979
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 commentsldocumentation within the provisions of the Mining Act of 1971 throughout the
application review process until a final decision is made on the application.
See Liston Following Page Jeffrey Curtis-The Quartz Corp. USA
AddresseelOwner of Record's Name and Address Name of Applicant.Include Contact Person&Company Name,if Applicable
07/28/2023 797 Altapass Highway Spruce Pine, North Carolina 28777
Date of Issuance of this NolicelMaled to Addressee/Owner of Record Address of Applicant
Revised September 21, 2021 1 Add Page I Page 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
Jeffrey Curtis-The Quartz Corp. USA ,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 swom,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
WILLIS DOUGLAS VAN$ANGEL HUL 297 ROGERS ST SPRUCE PINE, NC 28777
LONON LINDA M PO BOX 2445 BOONE, NC 28607
PITTMAN JACK 973 CARTERS RIDGE RD SPRUCE PINE, NC 28 7
WISEMAN SUE 62 GYPSY RUN SPRUCE PINE, NC 28777
Attach additional list if necessary.
I 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:
Darlene Butler P.O. Box 189 Spruce Pine, NC 28777
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 5113.0004(d).I understand that it is the responsibility of the applicant to retain the receipts of mailing
showing that the ab 4v notices were caused to be mailed and to provide them to the Department upon request.
Y = - 07/28/2023
Sig �iA Of Applicant or Agent Date p"
EE
If person executing Affidavit is an agent or employee of an applicant,provide the following information:. w
Name of Applicant Jeffrey Curtis
Title of person executing Affidavit v)Ct ?i zcSlj,-6 01 %SOD ���•`�
E, a Notary�lic of the County of
State of North lina,do hereby certify that appeared before me this
day and under oath acknowledged that the above Affidav as made by himther.
Witness my and and no ial seal,this—Zt day of 2V,3.
Notary:,-' f My commission expires: tom'/2 n Za 2 y
Revised September 21, 2021 Page 118
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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]
ADDITIONAL AFFIDAVIT OF NOTIFICATION
Adjoining Landowner Name Address
SIBELCO NORTH AMERICA INC. PO BOX 588 SPRUCE PINE, NC 28777
Revised September 21, 2021 P a e Additional Landowners

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 cant'out reclamation which the
operator has failed to complete in the event a bond forfeiture is ordered pursuant to G.S.74-59,
LANDOWNER: APPLICANT:
Signature i Signature'
Print Name Curtis Print Name j Curtis
Title(if applicable) Chief Financial Officer Title Chief Financial Officer
Company(If applicable) The Quartz Corp USA Company The Quartz Corp USA
Address PO Box 309 Spruce Pine Mine Name The Quartz Corp. USA-Spruce Pine
North Carolina 28777 Telephone [phone]
Telephone [phone] Date Signed 07/28/2023
Date Signed 07/28/2023
*Signature must be the same as the individual who signed Page 1 of this application.
One original and five Ml copies of the completed application,six f61 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 September 21,2021 Page 119
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