(1) In addition to the requirements imposed by ARM 17.24.203, 17.24.206, and 17.24.216 through 17.24.222, the department may require the following information as part of the plan of operation for a bentonite mining operation:

(a) an analysis of the soil and each major stratum in the overburden, including determinations of saturation percentage, pH, electrical conductivity, sodium adsorption ratio, texture, and additional characteristics the department may require.

(i) In submitting this information, the operator shall also list:

(A) the number of samples taken;

(B) the methods by which they were taken;

(C) the location and depths from which they were taken;

(D) the names and addresses of the persons who took the samples;

(E) the methods of analysis; and

(F) the names and addresses of the persons who analyzed the samples.

(ii) The soil analysis must be accompanied by a map delineating:

(A) the soil types;

(B) sample site locations;

(C) thicknesses of soil and overburden to be stripped for each soil type; and

(D) the dominant vegetative species present on each soil type; and

(b) a description of the disposal of bentonite cleanings, stray bentonite seams, and overburden that are unsuitable for plant growth.  Such materials must be buried under at least three feet of material suitable for sustaining the postmining vegetation.