(1) The State Department of Geology and Mineral Industries may inspect the exploration site prior to initiation of exploration to review the existing environmental conditions, assess impacts of the proposed exploration and establish the amount of financial assurance required.

(2) The department may inspect lands not later than 60 days following notification by the person conducting the exploration that reclamation is complete. If the department determines that the reclamation complies with the approved reclamation plan, including establishment of vegetation, the department may release the bond or other security required by ORS § 517.810 within 60 days of that determination.

(3) The department is authorized to inspect any ongoing exploration site in order to establish compliance with ORS § 517.702 to 517.755, 517.790, 517.810, 517.910 and 517.920. [Formerly 517.970]