20230918_01-Application

RECEIVED
THE QUARTZ "' SEP 18
nA {
CORP
`A vp LAND (QUALITY
MINING PROGRAM
September 15, 2023
Adam Parr
North Carolina Department of Environment Quality
Division of Energy, Mineral and land Resources
1612 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, NC27699-1612
Subject: Mining Permit submittal, Olerud Mine
The Quartz Corp, Spruce Pine, Mitchell County
Dear Mr. Parr:
The Quartz Corp is applying fora mining permit from the State of North Carolina for the
Olerud tract for the placement of mineral mining overburden from nearby mining operations, not
able to accommodate the overburden due to size restraints. Please find attached the proper
application, supporting documents and a check in the amount of$5,000.00 to cover the cost of
review.
Historically like several tracts in the Mitchell County, the Olerud tract has previously been
mined for mica and feldspar by hand cobbing in the early part of the last century and later by heavy
equipment. But for the Quartz Corp the value of the tract is it location near the Quartz Corp's
mining operations. This makes the Olerud mine unique in that no excavation of economic ore will
be hauled away from the mine to generate income but instead the site will be used as a overburden
management area.
The Quartz Corp believes that a mine permit issued by the State of North Carolina covers
three important issues that a soil and erosion permit would not.
1. The mine permit requires a reclamation bond so if in the unlikely eventthat the Quartz Corp
would go into bankruptcy the state would not have the economic burden of reclaiming the
site.
V

Olerud Mine Cover letter page 2
2.The mine permit has a higher standard for Air, Land, storm water and waste water.
3.The development of the infrastructure of the mine, i.e.sediment and erosion controls and
haul roads will require blasting, which naturally falls in a mine permit. To address the potential
noise from mining activity the normal operating hours of the mine will be from daylight to dusk five
days week with the occasional Saturday. Only in emergency will there be work at night or on
Sundays. For the land owners who request it, a blasting notification by a third party phone service
can be provided. This is a service that is currently being used at other Quartz Corp mines.
The mine plan for the Duncan mine is as follows:
1. The development of infrastructure will be kept to the minimum. Focusing on
sediment and erosion controls followed by haul road development.
2. The area cleared of trees and brush along with the stockpiling of topsoil will be
based on the space needed for holding the estimated overburden generated by
the mines in a year and half.The majority of the cleared vegetation will be
\`We, mulched or chipped for use as cover on exposed area of overburden in the
winter time. Stockpiling the topsoil will save energy and prove economical for
cover dirt. Stockpiled topsoil will be roughed, seeded and the storage area
surrounded with sediment fence for added control. Topsoil storage will always
be located in an area that has planned controls installed.
3. The mine will be developed from the bottom up, in 40-foot lifts with 15-foot-
wide benches,with 2:1 slopes between benches.This will aid in managing the
areas of exposed materials (a 40-foot 2:1 slope versus a top end dump).Refer to
the section in the permit labeled slope stability (Waste rock(overburden )Slope
Stability Study for the Quartz Corp, October 1, 2020).
4. As the lifts are completed to the final grade, they will be stabilized by placing
topsoil on them and if in the growing season, seeded.In the off growing seasons,
a mulch cover or a thin layer of soil will be placed on the finished grade slope till
the spring/fall growing seasons. These lifts are shown as Phases on the plans
and a total of 21 phases are planned

Olerud Mine Cover letter page 3
Blasting will only be done for the construction of controls and haul roads. Shot rock will be crushed
on site for road gravel.
The attached mine permit package includes all the required sections for a mine permit, it also
contains one additional section,the fugitive dust control plan. This plan is based on a fugitive dust
plan that has been implemented at another Quartz Corp mine.A SWPPP plan with a Notice of
Intent(NOI) is also included in the Mine permit package to speed up the permitting process.
To address slope stability and long-term geochemical effects from overburden the Quartz Corp had
a third party geotechnical/geochemical firm evaluate the current overburden management to
ensure design parameters for overburden design and long-term stability. This evaluation is attached
and labeled "Waste rock (overburden )Slope Stability Study for the Quartz Corp, October 1, 2020" A
soil and erosion plan for the entire life of mine (all 21 phases) has been is attached complete with
maps, controls, calculations and drawings.
Concrete boxes are planed at the start and end of all slope drains and other collection points.This is
done because of the limited space. Other options such as energy dissipators would require too
much space and allow water to flow on to the lower slope. Use of concrete boxes help eliminate the
creation of rills and channeling.
A nationwide permit has been applied for through the United States Army Corp of Engineers and a
copy of the application is attached.
The line of site section of the Olerud Mine permit shows that the Blue Ridge Parkway(federal),
Mount Mitchell and Roan Mountain (state) and Riverside Park (local) are all visually screened from
the mine.
We believe the application and all supporting documentation are complete and correct and that the
mine permit is a good solution for the tailing management at The Quartz Corp. Please note that
only certain copies have calculations and certain mining information included so the application is

Olerud Mine Cover letter page 4
not so large and bulky. If you have any questions, concerns or comments concerning this submittal
please contact me at 828-766 2103 during normal business hours. Thank you in advance for your
timely response and approval of the Duncan Mine Permit.
Sincerely,
Jw kw
Todd Mickleborough
Land and Mines Manager,The Quartz Corp
CC:All copies of permit&QC files

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 Olerud Mine
County Mitchell River Basin French Broad
Latitude(decimal degrees to four
places) 035.9253N
Longitude(decimal degrees to four
places) 082.0761 W
2. Name of Applicant The Quartz Corp USA
Applicant Contact Todd Mickleborough Consultant Contact
Applicant Email Consultant Email
Telephone Telephone
Cell Phone [phone] Cell Phone
3. Permanent Address for Receipt of
Official Mail" P.O. Box 309
Spruce Pine, NC 28777
4. Mine Office Address
5. Mine Manager Todd Mickleborough
Mine Manager Email [e-mail]
Telephone xxxxxx 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 27/.7023
Print Name Scott Reece
Title Secretary,The Quartz Corporation
*This will be the name that the mining permit will be issued to and the name that must be indicated on the redamabon 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.
Revised July 13,2021 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:
This is an application for a NEW permit.
Indicate the total acreage at the site to be covered by the permit 114
(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: 114.00
Property owner if leased: 130 of Chatham LLC
F-1 This is an application for a MODIFICATION to a mining permit.
Mining Permit Number: Total permitted acreage:
Does the modification involve acreage within the previously approved permitted boundary?
FIYES F�NO
If yes,indicate the acreage to be covered by this modification
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
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(Le.:disturbed,ground cover
removed)by the mining operation?
FIYES FINO
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.
This is an application for TRANSFER of a mining permit.
Mining Permit Number: Total permitted acreage:
Revised July 13,2021 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]
►1 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 1 $100.00
Annual Operating Fee $400.00 1 $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: N/A
3. Mining Method:
[_]Hydraulic Dredge ❑Front-end Loader&Truck ❑Shovel&Truck
❑Dragline&Truck E]Self-loading Scraper
[:]Other(please explain): No extraction of ore is planned only land application of overburden from nearby mine
4. Expected maximum depth of mine(feet)NIA
Depth is relative to what benchmark?(e.g.,natural ground level,mean seal level,road elevation,etc.)
N/A
Expected average depth of mine(feet) N/A
5. Has tanZrea at this site been mined in the past?
YES NO I I
If yes,when and by whom was this activity conducted?International Minerals 1950's to 1960's
6. Estimated life of the operation(years):80
NOTE:The Department may request clarification on how life of mine was calculated.
Revised July 13,2021 Page 3

NORTH CAROLINA MINING State of North Carolina 1612 Mail Service Center
PERMIT APPLICATION Department of Environmental Quality Raleigh,NC27699.1612
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
Hnp:/Iportal.ncdenr.org/webllr/geological 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 Cad Sandburg Court
Raleigh,NC 27699-1587 Raleigh,NC 27610
http:/Avww.ncdot.rq/iVgis [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 affected/disturbed during the life of the mining permit.A tablelchart 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 0.00 0.00 0.00
Stockpiles 0.00 0.00 0.00
Waste piles 0.00 0.00 0.00
Processing Areas/Haul Roads 0.00 0.00 0.00
Mine Excavations 0.00 0.00 0.00
Other(Please explain) 0.00 0.00 0.00
Total Affected Acreage 0.00 0.00 0.00
Total Permitted Acreage 0.00 0.00 0.00
Revised July 13,2021 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) 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 tact,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 July 13, 2021 Page 5

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 mining operation(which is not what is typically defined as mining)will involve filling the mine site with
overburden from a nearby mine.The site will be prepared for the overburden by placing soil and erosion
control measures along the perimeter of the mining site as shown on the attached mine maps.Access
roads supplied with ditches,culverts and associated sediment basins will be constructed in advance of the
placement of any overburden materials. The placement of the overburden material will be done in phases,
in lifts of 40 feet or less with seeding and stabilization of the slope concurant with the filling operation.
Timbering of the site will be performed on an as needed basis a few acres at a time. all finished slopes will
be graded at an angle of 2:1 or flatter. Additional control maesures may be added as the filling of the site
progresses,but only after the submittal of plans and engineering calculations to you office.
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,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.
See attached mine maps and details for the soil and erosion control measures
and their location. The calculations required for the controls are also attached
and a summery of the control information is on the mine maps. All sediment
basins are skimmer basins and diversion berms and ditches are are grass or rip
rap lined. Sediment fence will be used during the initial startup phase of the
mine and during the timbering untill other controls can be constructed.
3. A)Will the operation involve wash' the material mined,recycling process water,or other wastewater handling?
OYES NO
If yes,briefly describe all such processes including any chemicals to 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?
RYES ®NO
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 July 13, 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]
i
*MWI C)Will any part of the proposed mine excavations)extend below the water table?
YES 0 NO
If yes,do you intend to dewater the excavation(s)?
FIYES ® 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,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.
4. A)Will the operation involve crushing or any other air contaminant emissions?
MYES ]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.
Crushing will only be performed if stone is encountered during construction of
roadways and controls. See attached letter to the Asheville Regional Air Quality
office concerning the use of mobile equipment.
B)How will dust from stockpiles,haul roads,etc.,be controlled?
Dusts from stockpiles, haulroads and fill areas will be controlled by the use of
wet suppression and other methods needed to control fugitive emissions. A
fugitive dust control plan will also be used and is attached.
Revised July 13, 2021 Page 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 L..•�
unexcavated buffer(no excavation,but roadways,berms,and erosion 8 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).
A minimum buffer of 25 feet will be maintained along the entire permit
boundary. Most buffer will be 25-50 feet except where control structures,
roadways and mine entrances are located. No mine excavations are planned
only what is necessary for construction of controls and roadways.
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).
A minimum undisturbed buffer of 50 foot will be maintained along all streams
(except where permitted for disturbance by 401 and 404 permits). Emergency
situations, although none exist, would be covered by the 10% of total run rule for
trout streams. See attached maps for stream buffer locations.
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 fill area will be graded and sloped to 2:1 or flatter and benched to prevent
landslides. See attached Waste Rock (overburden) Slope Stability Study for the
Quartz Corporation from October 1, 2020 (only included in Land Quality Copies).
B)Provide a cross-section on the mine maps)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 July 13,2021 Page 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]
�..1 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).
N/A
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.
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.
N/A No excavations are planned for this mine other than for roads and controls.
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).
There will be no high wall areas only the 2:1 fill slope areas. The site will be
posted, gated and fenced as necessary to prevent access to the property.
9. Are acid roducing minerals or soils resent?
YES MNO
If yes,how will acid water pollution from the excavation,stockpiles,and waste areas be controlled?
Revised July 13,2021 Page 19

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 mine will be screened from the view of the local community by the buffer area and location
in some areas and also by trees and natural vegetation. Because of the mine size,location and
topography,total visual screening is impossible.Because the mine will be developed in phases,
the screening of completed phases,can be accomplished by vegetation. The clearing of trees
and other vegetation will be limited to only what is necessary to advance to the next phase area.
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?
The Olerud Mine site is not located near any Federal State or local park. The mine cannot be
seen from the Blue Ridge Parkway which is about six miles south of the mine on highway 226.
The only noise from the mine site will be tuucks dellivering material to the site and equipment
grading the site.Activities at the mine will be limited to daylight hours with exception for
emergency situations. See attached line of sight from the Blue Ridge Parkway and other area
parks.
11. Will explosives be used?
1j YES FINO
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 offslte occupied structure(s)to the proposed excavations)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 ]NO
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).
Explosives will only be used as needed to construct roads in areas where rock
is located. (See attached blasting Plan)
Revised July 13, 2021 Page 110

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.
The mine will be reclaimed concurrent with with the filling process. The mine
will be filled with overburden in 40 foot lifts which will be graded, sloped, seeded
and maintained as the filling of the site progresses. Phase one will be stabilized
and vegetated before or during development of phase two. See attached maps
for soil and erosion control structures planned for the site by phase. Soil and
erosion control structures will be constructed to stay in place and be maintained
to prevent erosion as shown on the attached reclanation maps.
2. Is an excavated or impounded body of water to be left as part of the reclamation?
F]YES ®NO
If yes,illustrate the location of the body(s)of water on the reclamation map and provide a scaled cross-sections)
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.
\..l
Will the body(s)of water be stocked with fish?
YES F ]NO
If yes,specify species.
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.
Barricades will be optional as no excavations in rock are planned. The site will
be posted, gated, and fenced to prevent access to the mine site.
�.d
Revised July 13, 2021 Page 111

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 the attached mine maps showing the filling of the mine site by phases. Also
see attached Waste Rock (overburden) Slope Stability Study for the Quartz
Corporation from October 1, 2020, which is only included in Land Quality Copies.
5. A)Describe reclamation of processing facilities,stockpile areas,and on-site roadways.
There will be no processing facilities and roads will be left and maintained for
access to control structures and future property uses.Stockpiles will be graded,
seeded, stabilized and maintained during the active life of the site and any
materials left at the end of the mine life will be graded to blend with the
surrounding area and seeded.
B)Will any on-site roadways be left as part of the reclamation?
Fv]YES nNO
if yes,identify such roadways on the reclamation map and provide details on permanent road and ditch line
stabilization.
Roadways will be left if they are needed to access controls and adjoining
property or new developments on the property once the mine is reclaimed and I-IWW)
released. All culverts will be supplied with and outlet protection structure and
remaining ditches will be stabilized and maintained.
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 offsite scrap metal,junk machinery, cables or other debris will be disposed
of offsite. All such materials will be disposed of offsite by recycle and in
accordance with Local, State and Federal laws.
Revised July 13,2021 Page 112

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(tonsiacre): See attached Vegetation Plan
Fertilizer Analysis and Rate of Application(lbstacre): See attached Vegetation Plan
Seed type(s)and rate(s)of application included year-round seeding schedule(lbs/acre):
NOTE:Include legumes
SEED TYPES SEEDING DATES SEEDING RATES
J See attached Vegetation Plan
Mulch Type,Rate of Application(lbs/acre),and Method of Anchoring:
See attached Vegetation Plan
Other Vegetative Cover(s)Type(s)and Rate(s)of Application Including Seeding Schedule(lbs/acre,treest
acre,spacing of trees/shrubs,etc.):
See attached Vegetation Plan
Revegetation and/or reforestation plan approved by:
Signature Date
Print Name Thomas D. Freeman CPESC
Title Certified Proffesional in Soil and Sediment Control
Agency EnviroCert IntemaUonal, Inc.
Revised July 13, 2021 Page 113

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 addfion.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 maps 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 $ /Ac. = $ 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 proposedlexisting
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:
E
TAL RECLAMTION 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 July 13, 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 Borrowffill dirt MI Mica KY Kyanite/Sillimanite/Andalusite 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) $1g00/ac. $2000/ac. $1800/ac. $5001ac.(L)
1500(FI) 2000(PD)
CS,DS,FS,MI,LI, 500(L) 500(L)
PF,OL,KY 1500(FI) 1800 2000 2000 2500(PD)
PH 1000(L) 2500 5000 5000 2000(L)
2500(FI) 5000(PD)
1000(L) 2000(L)
CL 2500(FI) 2500 5000 5000 3700(PD)
PE,AU,TI,OT 1000(L) 2500 3000 3500 2000(L)
2500(FI) 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 July 13, 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 alterative acceptable to the Department)rust 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 July 13,2021 Page 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 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):
Wla new surface mining permit,
1-1 a modification of an existing surface mining permit to add land to the permitted area;or
Fla 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 modifications)may be submitted by the applicant to allow
disturbance within this area without re-notification of adjoining landowners.
The applicant proposes to mine Place overburden on 114 acres located 0.5
(Mineral,Ore) (Number) (Number)
miles northwest of Spruce Pine off/near road Roan Road
(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 feet of the mining permit boundary).In addition,the mine operator must also notify fhe chief administrative officer of the county or
municipality in which any part of the permitted area is located. Any person may fie written camment(s)to the Department at the above address
within thirty(30)days of the issuance of this Notice or the fling 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.828-467-6673
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 comments/documentation within the provisions of the Mining Act of 1971 throughout the
application review process until a final decision is made on the application.
Todd Mickleborough,The Quartz Corporation
Addressee/Owner of Record's Name and Address dame of Applicant Include Contact Person&Company Name,if Applicable
P.O. Box 309, Spruce Pine, NC 28777
Date of issuance of this Notice/Malied to Addressee/Owner of Record Address of Applicant
Revised July 13,2021 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 1�J
I, Todd Mickleborough ,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
See Attached List
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:
Alan Cook,County Managed Darlene Butler,Spruce Pine Town Manager 28 Cdrnson Laurel Circle,Bakersviile,NC 287051 P.O Box 189,Spruce Pena,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 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 The Quartz Corporation
Ti#e of person executing Affidavit odd Mickleborough
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:
Revised July 13, 2021 Page 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 bond forfeiture is ordered pursuant to G.S.74-59.
LANDOWNER: APPLICANT:
Signature Signature*
Print Name Tim Sweeny Print Name Scott Reece
Title(if applicable) Member/Manager Title Secretary
Company(if applicable) 130 of Chatham LLC Company The Quartz Corp
Address 3409 BIRK BLUFF CT Mine Name 01erud Mine
Cary, NC 27518 Telephone 828-467_6673
Telephone [phone] Date Signed ��2� ���
Date Signed �
*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 be 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 an 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 July 13, 2021 Page 119