PM.12-EXAMPLE-PME-Quarry Plan-101.b

ELLETT ROCK QUARRY
OPERATION PLAN
&
PROPOSED EXPANSION
SEVEN MILE QUARRY
Approval Criteria: Wasco County
DOGAMI (Department of Geology & Mineral Industries)
Columbia River Gorge Commission
Owners: James & Loretta Ellett
5693 Chenoweth Road
The Dalles, OR 97058
Prepared by: Phil Martinson Engineering, Inc.
19550 SE Debora Drive
Boring, OR 97009
November 1, 2000

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TABLE OF CONTENTS
I. SYNOPSIS ......................................................................................................... 3
II. QUARRY HISTORY ........................................................................................ 3
III. LOCATION & LEGAL DESCRIPTION........................................................ 3
IV. TOPOGRAPHY & PROPERTY DESCRIPTION.......................................... 3
V. SCENIC RESOURCE PROTECTION ISSUES............................................. 4
VI. QUARRY DESIGN............................................................................................ 4
VII. MINING PLAN ................................................................................................. 4
VIII. MINING AREAS .............................................................................................. 5
IX. SCREENING PLAN ......................................................................................... 6
X. RECLAMATION............................................................................................... 6
ADDENDUM - EXHIBITS
EXHIBIT A – QUARRY LOCATION MAP
EXHIBIT B – QUARRY SITE DRAWING
EXHIBIT C – QUARRY CONTOURS
EXHIBIT D – QUARRY PHOTOGRAPHS
EXHIBIT E – FOREST SERVICE HERITAGE REPORT
EXHIBIT F – TAX MAP INFORMATION
EXHIBIT G – OLD APPROVAL – DEVELOPMENT REVIEW
EXHIBIT H – OLD APPROVAL MAP

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I. Synopsis
This Report is a Quarry Operation plan for Continued operation and expansion of an existing
rock quarry involving approximately 13.11 acres of a 62.59-acre parcel in the “A-1 Large
Scale Agriculture zone in the General Management Area of the National Scenic Area.
The Ellett Quarry is located approximately 2 miles west of the city of The Dalles. The
existing quarry is located on a 62.59-acre parcel, and the request is for operation on 13.11
acres. The existing operation is 8.67 acres (Areas “A”, “B”, “C” and “D.1”). The expansion
area includes 4.44 acres (Areas “D.2” and “D.3”). An additional, 2.08 acres (Area “R”) will
be reclaimed to its original or equivalent state. The current quarry operates during daylight
hours, sometimes 7 days per week, depending on the demand.
II. Quarry History
The Quarry has been in continual operation for the past 60 years. The current owners are
James and Loretta Ellett. The Quarry has operated for the past 10 years under permits from
the Oregon Department of Geology and Mineral Industries (DOGAMI) permit #33-0056 and
Wasco County File Number C90-0249-W-G-18. The prior approval covered 13 acres. This
request is to maintain 13 acres of quarry operation area by reclaiming a portion and
expanding into another area.
The area to be reclaimed has the potential to be seen from a “Viewing Area” along Highway
SR 14 on the North side of the Columbia River. The area to be expanded is hidden from
view by landscaped berms on the property.
III. Location & Legal Description
The subject property is a 62.59 acre parcel located northwest of and adjacent to Sevenmile Hill
Road just west of The Dalles, Oregon. It is located in the SW ¼ of Section 24, Township 2
North, Range 12 East of the W.M. - Tax Lot 12500 of Assessor’s Map 2N 12 in Wasco County,
Oregon.
IV.Topography & Property Description
The Parcel is situated on a 30 percent slope with a southeast facing aspect. Except for a few
isolated oak trees and riparian vegetation associated with two creek channels, which flow
down the slope, the slope is bare of significant woody vegetation. The existing disturbed pit
run shale area that lies above the 800 foot elevation and the proposed area of expansion
upslope from this area are visible from the —identified key viewing areas.

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V. Scenic Resource Protection Issues
The Ellett Quarry is located is within the “Grassland” landscape setting. This area is
characterized by large expanses of mostly treeless grass and forb covered hills. The
landforms vary from gentle and steeply sloping hillsides to level terraces. The proposed
quarry areas (Areas “A”, “B”, “C” and “D”) are well screened by the natural topography.
The operation will not include Area “R”, which is an area being reclaimed to its natural state.
The focus of the mining plan for the Ellett Quarry is to operate and expand the quarry in a
manner that will maintain a standard of “visual subordinance” relative to the natural
landscape setting. Views of the quarry site will not be visually dominant in relation to the
surroundings. The quarry operations will be designed in a way that minimizes contrast with
the landscape character and protect the essential natural and cultural features of the
surrounding area.
The Key Viewpoints of the Ellett Quarry are along the Washington side of the Columbia
River on Highway SR 14, near Murdock, Washington. Given the viewing distances and lack
of contrast with the natural setting, the existing quarry and the planned quarry operation
meets the standard of “visual subordination.”
VI. Quarry Design
The Ellett quarry expansion has been designed to meet the visual subordination standard
called for under the present zoning. We used several techniques to achieve this standard.
First, in looking at the plan of the quarry, note that we have carefully retained all of the high
knobs that form the southern and eastern boundaries of the area to be excavated. This will
help to topographically screen most of the operation from view. Second, most of the high,
steep sloped area above the quarry (to the north and west) will remain undisturbed. Third, the
northern part of the quarry expansion, the most visible area (as viewed from across the
Columbia River on SR 14) has been shaped to fit the natural landform of the area. It should
look like a natural “Canyon” to most observers.
VII. Mining Plan
Although the steepness and aspect of the slope does not lend itself to screening of the mining
operation from Sevenmile Hill Road (to the south), there are opportunities to screen portions
of the property from Key Viewing Areas along Highway 14 on the Washington side of the
Columbia River (to the east). This has been accomplished, and can be further enhanced, by
planting trees along two berm areas shown on the plan (Berms “M” and “N”). The berms
can also be graded to enhance the screening and match the natural state of the area. There
are some natural berms on the property, which also screen any of the excavation and quarry
operation. As proposed, Areas “A”, “B”, “C” and “D” would be screened from key viewing
areas, and would allow quarry operation and expansion that would be consistent with the

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requirements of Wasco County and the requirements established by the Columbia River
Gorge Commission. Area “R” shown on the map is to be reclaimed to a natural state. Some
mining in this area occurred to provide rock material for emergency flood control. This area
will be reclaimed to match its natural state and then planted to prevent slope erosion and
have it blend with the surrounding vegetation. Trees will be planted on Berms “M” and “N”
to provide screening to the quarry mining operations.
VIII. Mining Areas
Four areas within the subject parcel could, be mined so excavation would be fully screened
from the key viewing areas. These areas are delineated on the attached aerial photograph;
they are labeled as areas “A”, “B”, “C” and “D”. To ensure processing activities are not
visible from key viewing areas, equipment and machinery for crushing, screening, sorting,
etc. would be located in the designated mining areas.
Area “A” -This area consists of a disturbed hard rock area with an east high wall. If the high
wall is retained and landforms east of the high wall are left undisturbed, this area
of excavation would be screened from view of key viewing areas so mining can
occur in this area without adversely affecting scenic resources. In addition, any
planting with compatible vegetation species along Berm “M” would further
enhance the screening of this area.
Area “B” This area which is south of Area “A”, consists of a flat level bench. This area lies
below slopes, which obscure it from view of key viewing areas. Mining could
occur in this area without adversely affecting scenic resources if there is no lateral
excavation. Stockpiling could also occur in this area as long as the height of the
stockpiles does not exceed the height of surrounding landforms.
Area “C” - This area lies south of Badger Creek. It is obscured by the hills, which lie to the
east. Again, mining could occur in this area without adversely affecting scenic
resources if limited to the existing disturbed area. Stockpiling could occur in the
eastern portion of this area and not be seen from key viewing areas as long as the
stockpiles remain at a height low enough so they are not visible from key viewing
areas.
Area “D” -This area lies north of Badger Creek, upslope from a previously disturbed area.
The current mining area is labeled as Area “D.1”. The area for future expansion
is labeled as Area “D.2”. Mining could expand upslope into this area without
adverse effects on scenic resources. This area is screened from any key viewing
areas by Berm “N” and the existing trees, which are along the crest of Berm “N”.
Any additional planting with compatible vegetation species and natural grasses
along Berm “N” would further enhance the screening of this area.

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DESCRIPTION
Mining Area A 88,989 Square Feet 2.04 Acres
Mining Area B 59,652 Square Feet 1.37 Acres
Mining Area C 112,229 Square Feet 2.58 Acres
Mining Area D.1 116,522 Square Feet 2.67 Acres
Total Mining Area 570,980 Square Feet 13.11 Acres
Reclamation Area R 90,755 SF 2.08 Acres
SQUARE FOOTAGE ACREAGE
IX. Screening Plan
Three other areas within the subject parcel that relate to the mining operation are the
screening, berm and reclamation areas. These areas are delineated on the attached aerial
photograph; they are labeled as Berm “M” and “N” and Reclamation Area “R”. The Berms
“M” and “N” will provide screening from the topography of the berms and from the
vegetation on the berms. The reclamation area is labeled “R”. These screening and
reclamation mining work could, be mined so excavation would be fully screened from view
of the key viewing areas. Area “R” lies north of Badger Creek, between Berms “M” and
“N”. This area is to be restored to its natural state and there will be no mining activity in this
area.
X. Reclamation
Reclamation of any areas must include reseeding and erosion control measures to protect the
seeded areas. The plan would use crusher tailings to re-contour the land. Reclaimed areas
would be seeded in native grasses as recommended by the U.S. Soil Conservation Service.
Reclamation would proceed 65 days after mining is completed.

Proposed Submittal to Wasco County Attachment A
By PME for James & Loretta Ellett Quarry November 1,2000
Page 1 of 23
ATTACHMENT “A” - PROPOSED CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL
A. After Expiration Of The 10 Day Appeal Period And Prior To Any Expansion of The
Quarry. The Property Owner Shall:
1. Record the entire “Notice of Decision” (includes the Notice of Decision and conditions
of approval) at the Wasco County Clerk’s Office. The decision of the Planning
Commission shall be final unless a written appeal is received by this office within ten
(10) days of the mailing date of this decision.
2. The subject property is a 62.59 acre parcel located northwest of and adjacent to Sevenmile
Hill Road just west of The Dalles, Oregon. It is located in the SW ¼ of Section 24,
Township 2 North, Range 12 East of the W.M. - Tax Lot 1300 (Old Tax Lot # 12500) of
Assessor’s Map 2N 12 in Wasco County, Oregon [Reference Attachment B.1 – Tax Map].
NOTE: The reason this information (Notice of Decision) is recorded is to ensure that
future property owners and successors in interest are aware of the conditions
that apply to this parcel.
B. The Property Owner Shall Continue To Comply with the Conditions of Approval
Imposed by Wasco County And The Columbia River Gorge Commission Described in
the ‘DEVELOPMENT REVIEW” dated 29 May 1992:
1. Excavation shall be limited to the four areas depicted on the attached aerial photograph.
[Reference Attachment B.6 – Old Aerial Photograph]
2. Mining in Area “A” shall be done in a manner that will retain the east high wail so
mining activity in this area is screened from view of the key viewing areas. This will
require that the majority of excavation occur downward with lateral expansion —limited
to a westerly direction.
3. Processing operations (crushing, screening, sorting, etc.), storage equipment and
stockpiling of materials, including but not limited to topsoil, rock, processed rock —and
oversized materials shall be sited so they are not seen from key viewing areas. The height
of stockpiles shall be limited so they are not seen from key viewing areas.
4. Lateral expansion shall not occur within Area “B”.
5. Mining in Area “C” shall be limited to the disturbed areas.
6. Mining within Area “D” shall be limited to a 70 foot wide passage extending in a —
northwesterly direction for 200 feet from the area north of Badger Creek where some
mining has occurred, to an area where radial expansion may occur in a manner
retaining an east high wall for screening purposes. Excavation in this area shall extend
no further upslope than to the 980-foot elevation. The existing trees —located east of this
area shall be retained. Additionally, a berm with an outslope facing the key viewing

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areas shall be constructed and maintained. The berm shall be covered with at least 12
inches of topsoil and planted in native grasses. It shall be contoured at an outslope of 2
to 1 and shaped to blend with the surroundings. —Prior to commencing mining in Area
“D”, the applicant or parties of interest shall stake the perimeter of the excavation area
to be inspected by the Commission staff. The Commission shall be contacted two weeks
prior to excavation to arrange an inspection of the staked area.
6. Castings or any materials related to the mining operation shall not enter Badger Creek
or any stream channels, which enter Badger Creek.
7. The applicant or parties of record shall adhere to all provisions for reclamation as —
required by the Oregon Department of Geology and Mineral Industries permit #33-0056.
8. Should prehistoric or historic cultural resources be discovered during mining —
activities, all work shall immediately cease and the Commission and the Oregon State
Historic Preservation Office shall be notified within 24 hours of the discovery.
C. Operational Plan for the Ellett Quarry – Conditions for Continued Operation of the
Quarry:
1. Contact the Wasco County Assessor to disqualify the area to be mined from the farm
deferral program.
2. Apply for, and demonstrate receipt of a water right for the well on the existing quarry
site.
3. Comply with the following fire protection standard in the “A-1 (160) GMA ” Large Scale
Agriculture zone:
A pond, stream, tank or sump with storage of not less than 1,000 gallons, or a well or
water system capable of delivering twenty (20) gallons per minute shall b provided. If a
well pump is located on-site, the electrical service shall be separate from any dwelling.
4. Clearly post the address of the subject parcel on both sides of a post or mailbox, or other
similar post, support, stake or pedestal which cannot be easily removed or destroyed
which is within 30’ of the driveway which accesses the dwelling. The address numbers
shall be legible, reflective, and at least 2 ~/2 inches high.
5. During all phases of development water sprays or other suppressive devices shall operate
at all times so that on-site dust is minimized. Sprays or other suppressive devices shall be
used as necessary during inactive periods to ensure on-site dust is minimized
6. Prior to any disturbance in the expansion area, the property owner shall apply for and
receive approval of a Reclamation Plan from the Oregon Department of Geology &

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Mineral Industries (DOGAMI).
7. Fill out and file a farm-forest management easement with the Wasco County Clerk.
8. The property owner shall maintain and keep valid all required Department of
Environmental Quality (DEQ) permits.
9. Periodic review (every 3 years) of the extraction activities and concurrent reclamation
process shall be conducted by DOGAMI for compliance with visual requirements and
concurrent reclamation process. Mitigation (i.e., berming, vegetative screening) may be
required after review if necessary to maintain visual subordinance.
10. Prior to any ground disturbance in the expansion area, a survey shall be completed and
monuments established to ensure that excavation is confined to the approved area.
11. Prior to any blasting, a blasting plan for the sculpting of rock shall be submitted to, and
approved by DOGAMI.
D. Cultural Resource Conditions:
1. The areas proposed for mining have been determined to be not significant as Cultural
Resource {Reference Attachment B.2 – November 2, 2000 Letter from Michael
Boynton]. This includes all of the property located northeast of the “Non-Significant
Line” [Reference Attachment B.3].
2. Portions of the property to the southwest of the “Non-Significant” Line may or may not
have significant Cultural Resources. This area has not been evaluated to date.
3. The property owner shall cease development if cultural resources are discovered on the
parcel, and shall immediately notify the immediate notification of the Wasco County
Planning Office, the State Historic Preservation Office, and/or affected tribes.
E. Miscellaneous Conditions:
1. Telephone and power supply systems shall be underground whenever practical.
2. Existing vegetation outside of the expansion area shall be retained.
3. All mining activities shall occur within the area outlined on the original map, and only
during daylight hours between sunrise and sunset.
4. All processing areas, equipment storage, and stockpile areas shall be fully screened from
key viewing areas at all times. If storage is proposed in an area that is not fully screened
by existing topography, the property owner will submit a site plan/landscape plan

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showing how the site will be fully screened.
5. Reclamation of any areas must include reseeding and erosion control measures to protect
the seeded areas. The plan would use crusher tailings to re-contour the land. Reclaimed
areas would be seeded in native grasses as recommended by the U.S. Soil Conservation
Service. Reclamation would proceed 65 days after mining is completed.

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ATTACHMENT “B” INDEX
Maps, Drawings, Photographs and Illustrations
Attachment B.1 – Tax Map
Attachment B.2 – Area Location Map
Attachment B.3 – Quarry Layout
Attachment B.4 – Quarry Contours
Attachment B.5 – Cultural Resource Report from Michael Boynton
Attachment B.6 – Old 1992 Quarry Approval Photograph
Attachment B.7 – Quarry Photographs

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ATTACHMENT “C” - STAFF REPORT
I. APPLICABLE STANDARDS
Wasco County National Scenic Area Land Use and Development Ordinance
A. Chapter 2— Development Application Procedure
1. Section 2.060.B.13. (Matters the Director Elects Not to Review)
B. Chapter 3 — Basic Provisions
1. Section 3.110.E.6 (Exploration, Development and Production of Mineral Resources)
2. Sections 3.110.H (Property Development Standards)
3. Section 3.110.I. (Fire Protection Standards)
C. Chapter 13 — Nonconforming Uses
1. Section 13.035 (Gorge Commission Prior Approved Actions)
2. Section 13.140 (Mineral Resource Extraction - GMA)
D. Chapter 5— Conditional Use Review
1. Section 5.020 (Authorization to Grant or Deny Conditional Uses, and Standards and
Criteria Used)
2. Section 5.030 (Conditions)
E. Chapter 14—Scenic Area Review
1. Section 14.040 (Contents of the Site Plan for a Scenic Area Review)
2. Section 14.110 (Provisions for all new development)
3. Section 14.120 (Key Viewing Areas)
4. Section 14.140 (Scenic Travel Corridors)
5. Section 14.210.D (Grasslands Landscape Setting)
6. Section 14.310 (Cultural Resources)
7. Section 14.410 (Natural Resources)
8. Section 14.510 (Recreational Resources)
II.AFFECTED AGENCIES
A. Oregon Dept. of Geology & Mineral Industries
B. Oregon Dept. of Transportation
C. Oregon Dept. of Forestry
D. Mid-Columbia Fire & Rescue
E. Forest Service – Heritage Program Manager

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III. FINDINGS
A. Background
1. Request: Continued operation and expansion of an existing rock quarry involving
approximately 13.11 acres of a 62.59 acre parcel in the “A-1 Large Scale Agriculture
zone in the General Management Area of the National Scenic Area.
2. Legal Lot Size: 62.59 acres. The subject parcel was a parent parcel of 80 acres. Portions
of the parcel were deeded to the County for the Sevenmile Hill Road Right-of-Way or
were “orphaned” as a result of the road alignment. The parcel is described in Book 120,
page 91 of the Wasco County Assessor’s Office.
3. Access: Access to the existing quarry is from a private gravel access road off of
Sevenmile Road – West of The Dalles, Oregon.
4. Geology, Soils & Landform: The Ellett Rock Quarry site lies within a geologic area that
occupies both sides of the Columbia River. This is an area characterized by Columbia
River –Basalts. Subsequent mountain forming processes created a ridge and valley
topography. The Dalles Basin occupies one of these valleys, framed by the Columbia
Hills and Crates Point to the north and west. The entire area was swept away by repeated
floods and scoured away soil and talus, flushing it downstream. The result is the barren
landscape of rock terraces and grasslands typical of this area.
Almost all the soils of the subject parcel are classified by the U.S. Soil Conservation
Service as Bodell cobbly loam, 5 to 45 percent slope, with class VII cropland suitability
and no site index for forest capability. The identified soil is capable of producing 800 to
1,400 pounds per acre of forage.
The subject parcel consists largely of soils unsuitable for crop and forest production.
Approximately 20 acres have been quarried for rock material. Although, the soils of the
subject parcel are capable of some limited grazing, the subject parcel, by itself, is too
small to support a viable livestock operation. The subject parcel does lie adjacent to a
large ranch. It is possible for the subject parcel to be managed as part of adjacent
livestock operations. Implementation of the reclamation plan would return the expanded
quarry area to a level capable of supporting livestock.
5. On-Site Land Use: The subject parcel contains no recent structural improvements an old
storage bin that is not used is located on the property (used with past operations). The
existing quarry operational areas and the proposed expansion areas will be screened from
any viewing areas. This has been accomplished, and can be further enhanced, by planting
trees along two berm areas shown on the plan (Berms “M” and “N”). The berms can also
be graded to enhance the screening and match the natural state of the area. There are
some natural berms on the property, which also screen any of the excavation and quarry

Page 8 of 23
operation.
As proposed, the Quarry Operational Areas “A”, “B”, “C” and “D” would be screened
from key viewing areas, and would allow quarry operation and expansion that would be
consistent with the requirements of Wasco County and the requirements established by
the Columbia River Gorge Commission. Area “R” shown on the map is to be reclaimed
to a natural state. Some mining in this area occurred to provide rock material for
emergency flood control. This area will be reclaimed to match its natural state ands then
planted to prevent slope erosion and have it blend with the surrounding vegetation. Trees
will be planted on Berms “M” and “N” to provide screening to the quarry mining
operations.
6. Surrounding Land Use: In accordance with Section 14.110.B of the Wasco County
National Scenic Area Ordinance, an analysis area was studied to determine the
compatibility of the request with the surrounding area. This area was determined to be all
parcels within ¼ mile of the subject parcel. Compatibility with the analysis area is
addressed throughout this report.
Adjacent land use includes rangeland to the north and south, and a 642-acre parcel to the
east, owned by Wasco County, the south quarter of which is quarried for rock material.
7. Past Actions: Past actions are identified on the subject parcel and include the prior Wasco
County Quarry Plan Approval C90-0249-W-G-18 for mining of 13 acres.
8. Previous Tax Lot Number: 2N 12E 24, tax lot 12500
9. Sewage: No public sewer or private septic system is on the subject parcel; portable toilets
exist on the quarry site.
10.Water: There is an existing well on the property.
11.Fire Protection: Mid-Columbia Fire & Rescue
B. Comments
Frank Schnitzer, Mined Land Reclamation, Department of Geology & Mineral Industries
DOGAMI has been sent an application, including a mine development and
reclamation plan, an archaeological survey of the property, and a visual resource
evaluation for the proposed expansion.
Michael Boynton, Heritage Program Manager, U.S. Forest Service, reviewed the request and
responded in writing in his letter dated November 2, 2000. Relative to the proposed
areas for a quarry operation, he determined “Cultural Resources are either absent, or
have been determined not to be significant”. Areas to the west of the proposed quarry

Page 9 of 23
operation which are not included in the proposed quarry mining plan (Areas “A”,
“B”, “C” and “D”) may have some significance and would need to be reviewed if
future expansion to the west was proposed at some later date.
Please note: Complete comments are on file at the Wasco County Planning and Development
Office.

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C. Wasco County Land Use Development Ordinance Criteria
1. Development Application Procedure
a. Section 2.060.B.13. Provides that the Planning Commission shall hear matters,
which the Director elects not to be reviewed.
Finding: The Planning Commission wishes to hear all requests involving mineral extraction.
Therefore, the Director elects not to review this request and a public hearing before the Planning
Commission has been scheduled.
b. Section 2.140.B.15. , Conditions of Approval
This section sets forth the parameters for imposing the recordation of
conditions of approval on developments
Finding: The proposed use will require conditions to protect the public from potentially
deleterious effects of the proposed use, and fulfill the need for public service demands created by
the proposed use, and promote the public health, safety, and welfare. Because all future property
owners and the public are required to have access to the conditions of approval associated with
this review, a condition is indicated requiring the recordation of the entire notice of decision,
including all of the conditions of approval, with the Wasco County Clerk’s Office prior to
recording the final partition plat map. This condition is noted in Attachment “A” Proposed
Conditions of Approval.
2. Chapter 3— Basic Provisions
a. Section 3.110.E.6. Allows exploration, development and production of mineral
resources, subject to Property Development and Fire Protection Standards,
Conditional Use standards (Chapter 5), and Chapter 14 —Scenic Area Review.
Finding: The request complies with Section 3.110.E.6.
• The Ellett Quarry first began operation in 1940. Subsequent permits to expand operations
were granted by the County and Gorge Commission.
• Property development and fire protection standards (Section 3.110.H & 3.110.I), Chapter 5
(Conditional Uses) criteria and Chapter 14 (Scenic Area Review) are addressed below.
b. Sections 3.110.H. identifies setback requirements and height limit for all new
structures.
Finding: Property development standards are not applicable to this request.
• The request is for expansion of an existing rock extraction operation, and does not involve
the development of any “structure”, as defined by Section 1.090 of the NSA-LUDO.

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c. Section 3.110.I. lists fire protection standards in the A-I Large Scale Agriculture
zone.
Finding: With conditions, the request complies with Section 3.110.I.
• Conditions requiring compliance with the Large Scale Agriculture zone fire standards shall
be made part of this decision.
• The Wasco County Uniform Addressing Ordinance adopted on June 9,1982, requires a
property owner to clearly post the address of the subject parcel on both sides of a post or
mailbox, or other similar post, support, stake or pedestal which cannot be easily removed o
destroyed which is within 30 feet of the driveway which accesses the development.
• A condition requiring the parcel address to be posted in compliance with the Wasco County
Uniform Addressing Ordinance is indicated.
3. Chapter 13— Nonconforming Uses, Buildings and Lots
Section l3.140, Mineral Resource Extraction — GMA, allows existing development
or production of mineral resources to continue unless the Gorge Commission
determine that the uses adversely affect the scenic, cultural, natural or recreational
resources of the Scenic Area. These uses will be considered discontinued and subject
to the land use ordinances under this Ordinance if:
A. The mined land has been reclaimed naturally or artificially to a point where it is
revegetated to fifty (50) percent of its original cover (considering both basal and
canopy) or has reverted to another beneficial use, such as grazing. Mined land
shall not include terrain which was merely leveled or cleared of vegetation; or
Finding: The quarry is active and has not reverted to any other use or been revegetated to 50%
of it’s original cover.
B. The site has not maintained both a required Department of Geology and Mineral
Industries Permit and County permit; or
Finding: The site has maintained all required permits from the County and DOGAMI.
C. The site has not operated legally within five (5) years prior to the date of
adoption of the Management Plan.
Finding: The site has operated legally since it began operation in 1940, more than 40 years
prior to adoption of the Management Plan. It had a review and consistency determination in
1991-1992 by the Planning Commission and Gorge Commission staff under Interim Guidelines.

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4. Chapter 5— Conditional Use Review
a. Section 5.020, Authorization to Grant or Deny Conditional Uses, and Standards and
Criteria Used.
A. The proposal is consistent with the goals and objectives of the Management Plan
for the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, and consistent with the
provisions of the County’s implementing ordinances.
Finding: Wasco County adopted an ordinance in 1994, which implements National Scenic
Area -requirements. This ordinance was deemed consistent with the Management Plan.
Provisions of the County’s ordinance are addressed throughout this report.
B. Taking into account location, size, design and operational characteristics of the -
proposed use, the proposal is compatible with the surrounding area and
development of abutting properties by outright permitted uses.
Finding: With conditions, the request is consistent with criterion 5.020.B.
• The subject parcel is located approximately 2 miles west of the city of The Dalles. The
existing quarry is located on a 62.59-acre parcel, and the request is for operation on
13.11 acres. Existing Operation is 8.67 acres (Areas “A”, “B”, “C” and “D.1”).
Expansion includes 4.44 acres (Areas “D.2” and “D.3”). In additional, 2.08 acres
(Area “R”) will be reclaimed to its original or equivalent state. The current quarry
operates during daylight hours, sometimes 7 days per week, depending on the demand.
• Surrounding lands are zoned “A-1 (160)” Large Scale Agriculture. The existing
quarry has operated for nearly 60 years without conflicts to surrounding farm or
surrounding quarry uses.
• Adjacent land use includes rangeland to the north and south, and a 642-acre parcel to
the east, owned by Wasco County, the south quarter of which is quarried for rock
material.
• With prior conditions of approval in place, the existing quarry operation has
maintained compatibility with surrounding properties. These prior operational
conditions will continue to apply to the expansion area, and are indicated in the
recommended conditions.
• Based on distance, elevation differences, and topographic features, this reposrt shows
the request is compatible with the surrounding area and surrounding uses.

Page 13 of 23
C. The proposed use will not exceed or significantly burden public facilities and
services available to the area, including, but not limited to: roads, fire and police
protection, sewer and water facilities, telephone and electrical service, or solid
waste disposal facilities.
Finding: The request complies with criterion 5.020.C
• The continued operation and proposed expansion will not burden the existing public
roads (Sevenmile Hill Road or Chenoweth Road). It will not, increase the use of the
road, but will continue to use it as it has for the past 60 years.
• The request will not require additional fire or police protection beyond what is already
provided.
• There is a well on the subject parcel.
• Portable toilet facilities are used at the existing quarry site; no public sewer facilities
are required to the site.
• Electricity is available, but the operation relies on a portable generator for electricity.
• Telephone service is available to the subject parcel, but has not been installed.
D. The proposed use will not unduly impair traffic flow or safety in the area.
Finding: The request is consistent with criterion 5.020.D.
• The continued operation and proposed expansion will not impair traffic flow or be
unsafe to the area. The quarry operation will continue to be current with all applicable
highway safety, road, OSHA and equipment standards.
E. The effects of noise, dust and odor will be minimized during all phases of
development and operation for the protection of adjoining properties.
Finding: The request complies with criterion 5.020.E.
• Because of the natural topography of the site, the quarry is located in a draw, the main
operation is 20 to 30 feet below the adjacent road (Sevenmile Hill Road) and the
surrounding area. This mitigates the adverse affects of dust from the quarry operation.
However is dust is a problem, the operation has water available at the site to take care
of any dusting conditions.
• Due to the topographic separation of the proposed extraction site from adjoining

Page 14 of 23
properties, the current quarry operation has not created noise problems. There are
times when blasting occurs in the quarry, however, no noise complaints from
neighboring property owners have been received by the Planning Office. The proposed
expansion will be a continuation of the current use, and should not change the current
level of noise created by the use. Odor is not a problem with this type of operation.
F. The proposed use will not significantly reduce or impair sensitive wildlife
habitat riparian vegetation along stream banks and will not subject areas to
excessive soil erosion.
Finding: The request is consistent with criterion 5.020.E.
• There are no sensitive wildlife habitat areas defined in the project area.
• There are no stream banks or riparian vegetation in the project area.
• The expansion area contains little soil, however, concurrent reclamation will ensure no
soil erosion occurs.
• The quarry operation complies with erosion control measures through the DOGAMI
and Wasco County regulatory process.
G. The proposed use will not adversely affect the air, water, or land resource
quality of the area.
Finding: The request complies with criterion 5.020.G.
• The quarry operation complies with an air quality regulations through permitting from
the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) - DEQ Pendleton Office.
All other DEQ permits for mining are regulated by DOGAMI and Wasco County.
• No permits are required for groundwater run-off unless it is discharged off the subject
property. The present quarry operation does not require the discharge of water off-site;
therefore, no state permit is required.
• Almost all the soils of the subject parcel are classified by the U.S. Soil Conservation
Service as Bodell cobbly loam, 5 to 45 percent slope, with a class VII cropland
suitability and no site index for forest capability. The identified soil is capable of
producing 800 to 1,400 pounds per acre of forage, which is considered unsuitable for
commercial agricultural production in eastern Oregon. The proposed quarry operation
(8.67 acres) and expansion (4.44 acres) will not reduce the quality of the soil because
class VII soil is one of the poorest soils in the state. Upon completion of the quarry
operation, the land will be reclaimed and the land resource quality will be at least as
good as its present state.

Page 15 of 23
H. The location and design of the site and structures for the proposed use will not
significantly detract from the visual character of the area.
Finding: The visual impact of the request is discussed in with Wasco County Code Section
14.120 (Key Viewing Areas)
I. The proposal will preserve areas of historic value, natural or cultural
significance, including archaeological sites, or assets of particular interest to
the community.
Finding: The visual impact of the request is discussed in with Wasco County Code Section
14.310 (Cultural Resources - GMA)
J. The proposed use will not significantly increase the cost of accepted farm or
forest practices on surrounding lands devoted to, or available for, farm or
forest use.
K. The proposed use will not force a significant change in accepted farm or forest
practices on surrounding lands devoted to, or available for, farm or forest use.
Finding: With a condition, the request is consistent with criteria 5.020.J and 5.020.K.
• The quarry is an operation that has existed in the area since 1940, and no complaints
have been received by the Planning Department from adjacent farm or forest operators
of conflicts between the quarry and farm use.
• Based on existing farm uses in the area, elevation differences between the proposed
quarry and farm uses, and topographic features which separate the quarry from
registered farm fields, this report shows the proposed use will not force a significant
change in, or increase the cost of accepted farm or forest practices on surrounding
lands devoted to, or available for, farm or forest use.
b. Section 5.030, Conditions - This section allows the County to establish conditions as
are necessary to ensure the compatibility of a conditional use to surrounding
permitted uses that are necessary to fulfill the general and specific purposes of this
Ordinance.
Finding: Conditions are established throughout this report to ensure compatibility of the
proposed use to surrounding permitted uses.

Page 16 of 23
5. Chapter 14— Scenic Area Review
a. Section 14.040 lists the contents of the site plan for a Scenic Area Review.
Finding: The property owner has submitted a site plan incompliance with this Section 14.040.
b. Section 14.110 lists provisions for all new development. Those that pertain to this
parcel are addressed below.
1. Project applicants shall be responsible for the proper maintenance and
survival of any planted vegetation required by the standards of this chapter.
Finding: With conditions, the request is consistent with this criterion (Code Section 14.110.C).
• Existing trees planted along Berm “N” and new seedlings planted along Berm “M”
will be maintained by periodic watering during the dry months.
• Any vegetation outside of the quarry extraction area, will be maintained by the quarry
operator.
2. Exterior lighting shall be directed downward, sited, limited in intensity, --
shielded and hooded in a manner that prevents the lighting from projecting
onto adjacent properties, roadways, and the Columbia River. Shielding and
hooding materials shall be composed of non-reflective opaque materials.
There shall be no visual pollution due to the sighting or brilliance, nor shall
it constitute a hazard for traffic.
Finding: With a condition, the request is consistent with criterion (Code Section 14.110.D).
• The request does not propose the installation of any outdoor lighting. If outdoor
lighting is desired in the future, the property owner must keep any lighting below the
elevations of Berms “m” and “N”. A condition stating this is indicated.
3. A site plan and application shall be submitted for all new buildings, except
for buildings smaller than 60 square feet in area and less than 18 feet in
height, as measured at the roof peak. The site plan and application shall
include all information indicated in Section 14.040, Contents of the Site Plan
For a Scenic Area Review. Supplemental requirements for development
proposals on lands visible from Key Viewing Areas are located in the Key
Viewing Areas section, Section 14.120.
Finding: The request is consistent with criterion 3.

Page 17 of 23
• A complete site plan was submitted in compliance with Section 14.040. Additional
information required by Section 14.120 was also submitted.
• Section 14.120 is addressed in Section III.C.5.c.
4. If it is determined that the proposed development is on lands visible from a
Key Viewing Area, the applicant shall submit the site plan information
specified in subsection (D) of Section 14.120, Key Viewing Areas, in addition
to the standard site plan requirements stated in Section 14.040, Contents of
the Site Plan For a Scenic Area Review.
Finding: The subject parcel is visible from key viewing areas. Section 14.120 is addressed in
Section III.C.5.c.in this report.
5. For all proposed structures, the determination of compatibility with the
landscape setting shall be based on information submitted in Subsection E.
of this section.
Finding: According to maps provided by the Columbia River Gorge Commission, the subject
property is within the Grasslands Landscape Setting. Criterion 5 is discussed under Section
lll.C.5.e. in this report.
6. Expansion of an existing quarry requires a reclamation plan in addition to
the site plan. The reclamation plan shall address the restoration of the site to
a natural appearance, which blends with and emulates surrounding
landforms to the maximum extent practicable. Such a plan shall be approved
in accordance with state regulations by the applicable state agency for uses
under their jurisdiction and approved by the County in accordance with
County Ordinances, regardless of state jurisdiction.
Finding: The request complies with criterion 6.
• The Reclamation Plan is discussed in Section lll.C.5.c.
c. Section 14.120 — Key Viewing Areas
Section 14.120 includes criteria for all development on parcels that are visible
from Key Viewing Areas.
Finding: With conditions, the request is consistent with the requirements of Section 14.120.
• The request is for a 4.44-acre expansion of an existing quarry operation.

Page 18 of 23
• As a consequence of the stringent new NSA standards, many rock and aggregate
quarries in the area have closed. No new quarries have been established over the past
decade. Existing quarries are allowed to continue to operate and expand as long as
they can achieve a standard of “visual subordinance” relative to the natural landscape
setting. Visual subordinance is defined as “not visually dominant in relation to the
surroundings.” This means that the natural, or culturally modified character of the land
should form the primary impression on the viewer. Activities like quarries must be of
an appropriate scale, and should be designed in a way that minimizes contrast with
landscape character.
• Although portions of the subject parcel are visible from one key viewing area on
Washington State Route 14, the quarry operation itself will not be visible since the
quarry operation areas will be screened from view by two Berms and the associated
landscaping located on the property.
• The applicant submitted a report entitled “Ellett Rock Quarry Operation Plan &
Proposed Expansion.”
• Washington State Route (S.R.) 14: The subject parcel is located approximately 4.17
miles west of S.R. 14. From this viewpoint the only portion of the property that will
be visible is the Reclamation Area “R”. Both the exiting quarry operation areas (“A”,
“B”, “C” and “D.1”) and the expanded area (“D.2” and “D.3”) will be screened by the
existing topography – landscaped berms “M” and “N”. All areas of the quarry
operation will meet the visual subordination standard called for under the present
zoning.
• The Subject Quarry has been in continuous operation since 1940. While located
wholly within the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, it lies in a fortunate
topographic position relative to key viewpoints. None of the existing quarry areas to
the proposed expansion can be seen from any viewpoint. That which can be seen is
the reclamation Area “R”, which has been designed to fit the natural landscape
character of the surrounding area by restoring the area to its natural state and assuring
a condition of “visual subordination”.
• Periodic review (every 3 years) of the extraction activities and concurrent reclamation
process shall be conducted by the Oregon Department Of Geology & Mineral
Industries (DOGAMI) for compliance with the operational plan and the concurrent
reclamation process.
• The existing quarry is well screened by existing topography and demonstrates the
visual absorption capability of this landscape. With careful grading and compliance
with the above operational conditions, additional impacts to existing quarries from the
expansion will be negligible.
• The existing operation was granted renewal/expansion in 1991-1992. Conditions

Page 19 of 23
implementing all prior Gorge Commission and County conditions from the 1991-1992
approval are included with this request.
• The request does not include the placement of any exterior lighting. Outdoor lighting
in this location would be difficult to screen from key viewing areas, therefore, no
exterior lighting is permitted with this request. In the future, if exterior lighting is
desired, the owner will have t obtain site plan review approval. A condition stating this
is indicated.
• Criterion V. allows the expansion of existing quarries if they meet specific standards:
The applicant has submitted all information required by Section 14.120.0. E.
The scenic resource assessment submitted by the applicant demonstrates that the
proposed extraction expansion site will be visually subordinate. If storage is
proposed in an area that is not fully screened, the applicant will submit a site
plan/landscape plan showing how the site will be fully screened. This site
plan/landscape plan must be approved by the Wasco County Planning Office prior
to moving the storage and processing areas.
DOGAMI has received an application and reclamation plan for the proposed
expansion and will begin their technical review in the near future. A condition
requiring the applicant to obtain approval of a permit for expansion and a
reclamation plan from DOGAMI prior to any ground disturbance in the expansion
area is indicated.
• A condition requiring period checks at least every three years is made a part of this
decision. The purpose of this check is to verify the need for additional steps such as
berming or vegetative screening. Reclamation shall be concurrent.
d. Section 14.140 — Scenic Travel Corridors
Section 14.140 pertains to development on lands that are within ¼ mile (1,320’)
of a Scenic Travel Corridor(s).
Finding: The subject property is not within ¼ mile of a scenic Travel Corridor and this section
does not apply.
e. Section 14.210.D. — Grasslands Landscape Setting
1. New development shall be compatible with the general scale (height,
dimensions, overall mass) of development in the vicinity. Expansion of
existing development shall comply with this standard to the maximum extent
practicable.
Finding: The request complies with Section 14.210.D.1.
• There are several quarry operations along the Columbia River Gorge; many are
located either within urban areas or in a “visual resource” zone (Multnomah County).

Page 20 of 23
There is an existing quarry operation in Mosier that is larger than the subject quarry
and expansion area; an existing Multnomah County quarry that is 350 acres in size.
There is also a 100-acre sand and gravel site at Dallesport.
• In the Wasco County National Scenic Area there are four identified quarry operations
(Ellett, Webb, Munsen, Wasco County). The County pit and Ellett pit are next to each
other and appear larger due to their proximity to each other.
• The key compatibility issue here is that the proposed size and scale of extraction area
fits within key topographic features of this site. The proposed extraction area has been
reduced and carefully designed to ensure existing features remain the dominant
element in the landscape.
2. Accessory structures, outbuildings and access ways shall be clustered
together as much as possible, particularly towards the edges of existing
meadows, pastures and farm fields.
Finding: No new structures are proposed, therefore, Section 14.210.D.2 is not applicable to this
request.
• A previously stated condition required accessory uses such as equipment storage,
crushing, stockpiling, etc., to be located in an area which provides full screening from
key viewing areas.
3. In portions of this setting visible from Key Viewing Areas, the following
standards shall be employed to achieve visual subordinance for new
development and expansion of existing development:
a. Except as is necessary for site development or safety purposes, the
existing tree cover screening the development~ from Key Viewing Areas
shall be retained.
Finding: There are no trees in the project area; therefore, the request is consistent with Section
14.210.D.3.a.
b. Vegetative landscaping shall, where feasible, retain the open character of
existing pastures and fields.
Finding: The request is consistent with Section 14.210.D.3.b.
• The Grassland Landscape Setting is characterized by large expanses of mostly treeless
grass and forb-covered hills and terraces. The landforms vary from gentle and steeply
sloping hillsides to level terraces. The Ellett Quarry is in a fortunate position with
respect to protection of landscape character since the quarry areas and expansion area
is screened from view by the berms located on the property. The area to be reclaimed,

Page 21 of 23
Area “R”, will blend in to the Grassland Landscape Setting. Thus even the parts of the
quarry that can be seen will not sharply contrast with the natural landscape character.
c. At least half of any trees planted for screening purposes shall be species
native to the setting or commonly found in the area. Such species include
fruit trees, Douglas fir, Lombardy poplar (usually in rows), Oregon white
oak, big leaf maple, and black locust (primarily in the eastern Gorge).
d. At least one-quarter of any trees planted for screening shall be coniferous
for winter screening.
Finding: The request is consistent with Section 14.210.D.3.c&d.
• Berm “N” has been planted with Lombardy poplar. Additional plantings will be added
to both Berm “M” and “N”. Additional juniper conifers will be added to make up 25%
of the plantings.
e. Structures’ exterior shall be dark and either natural colors (GMA only)
or earth-tone colors (SMA or GMA) that blend with the surrounding
terrain unless specifically exempted pursuant to Section 14.120 (K) or (L)
of this Ordinance.
Finding: No new structures are proposed; therefore, Section 14.210.D.3.d is not applicable to
this request.
f. Section 14.310 — Cultural Resources - GMA
Applicability of the Cultural Resource Reconnaissance and Historic
Survey Requirements.
Finding: With conditions, the request is consistent with Section 14.310.
• The request for expansion of an existing mineral extraction operation is considered a
large-scale use, and the County required the applicant to obtain a cultural resource
reconnaissance survey as required by Section 14.310.B.3.d.
• Michael Boynton, Heritage Program Manager, U.S. Forest Service, reviewed the
request and responded in writing in his letter dated November 2, 2000. Relative to the
proposed areas for a quarry operation, he determined “Cultural Resources are either
absent, or have been determined not to be significant”. Areas to the west of the
proposed quarry operation which are not included in the proposed quarry mining plan
(Areas “A”, “B”, “C” and “D”) may have some significance and would need to be
reviewed if future expansion to the west was proposed at some later date.
• In order to ensure compliance with Section 14.310, a condition shall be implemented

Page 22 of 23
that requires the applicant to cease any further development if cultural resources are
discovered on the parcel, and the immediate notification of the Wasco County
Planning Office, Columbia River Gorge Commission, the State Historic Preservation
Office, and/or affected tribes.
g. Section 14.410 — Natural Resources
This Section provides guidelines for protection of (1) wetlands, (2)
streams, ponds, lakes, and riparian areas, (3) sensitive wildlife areas and
sites, and (4) sensitive plants.
Finding: The request is consistent with the Ordinance provisions to protect natural resources.
• A review of inventory maps provided to Wasco County by the Columbia River Gorge
Commission and site visits to the property, indicates that no wetlands, lakes, sensitive
wildlife or wildlife sites, or Wild Turkey, Deer & Elk Winter Range are located on or
within ¼ mile of the subject parcel.
• There are no sensitive plants on the subject parcel.
• There are no ponds on the subject parcel.
h. Section 14.510 — Recreational Resources — GMA
This section is intended to protect and enhance recreation resources
consistent with Indian treaty rights and to protect scenic, natural,
cultural, and recreational resources when providing new recreation
opportunities.
Finding: The request is consistent with Section 14.510.
• There are no recreation sites currently operating on or within ¼ mile of the subject
parcel.
• The subject parcel has a Recreational Intensity Class of 1. Recreation Intensity Classes
range from 1 to 4, with 1 being the lowest and 4 being the highest rating.
• There will be no impact on recreational resources because the request is for a
continuation of an existing operation, and there will be no increase in truck trips to
haul rock from the quarry site.
III. CONCLUSIONS
A. The request is for continued operation (8.67 acres) and limited expansion (4.44 acres) of an

Page 23 of 23
existing rock quarry involving approximately 13.11 acres of a 62.59-acre parcel.
B. The subject parcel is located in the “A-1 (160) Large Scale Agriculture zone of the General
Management Area of the National Scenic Area”.
C. With conditions, the request is consistent with the Wasco County Columbia River Gorge
National Scenic Area Land Use & Development Ordinance.

PM.12-EXAMPLE-PME-Quarry Plan-101.b

[EXHIBIT D]
View of Quarry from Reclamation Area “R” – to the East View of Quarry& Stockpiles from Reclamation Area “R” – to the South
View of Quarry from Reclamation Area “R” – to the Southwest View of Quarry from Reclamation Area “R” – to the West
ELLETT QUARRY

PM.12-EXAMPLE-PME-Quarry Plan-101.b

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