(1) The department may defer the reclamation requirements of acreage disturbed under an exploration license if that acreage is proposed for incorporation into a complete plan of operation that is being prepared or has already been submitted as part of an application for an operating permit.

(2) The licensee shall comply with the following conditions of a reclamation deferral:

(a) a current exploration license shall be maintained;

(b) a current and adequate bond shall be maintained;

(c) the licensee shall be actively pursuing an operating permit or have filed a valid exclusion; and

(d) the licensee shall observe any interim monitoring or reclamation requirements as may be reasonably required by the department.

(3) The department shall cancel the deferral and issue an order to reclaim if the licensee fails to meet any of the conditions outlined in (2) , listed above.