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Seneca 11 Mine June 2014 <br />SL -6 Phase 111 Bond Release Request <br />Alternative Test C): Species Density Distribution AssessmentAmong Lifeforms <br />This test relates to the distribution of species presence among the various lifeforms in <br />comparison to the reference areas. This standard uses the Motyka similarity index to assess the <br />resemblance of reclamation vegetation species density distribution by lifeform to that of the <br />reference areas. Because the average internal resemblance (i.e. between- sample similarity) of <br />applicable reference areas for species density data is often in the range of 70 %, the standard is <br />63% (0.9 x 70 %). (The assessment of internal similarity was performed on data from the <br />reference areas.) <br />The Motyka similarity index is used as follows: <br />IS.0 = 2c / (a + b) <br />Where: <br />c = the smaller of the paired species density values (for each lifeform) of the <br />reclaimed and reference areas* <br />a = total of species density values for lifeforms of the reclaimed areas <br />b = total of species density values for the lifeforms of the reference area* <br />* Weighted average lifeform species density using the Peabody Sage Creek Reference Areas <br />(weighted based on 83% original extent of Mountain Brush and 17% original extent of <br />Sagebrush). <br />Only species density values by vascular plants are included. Lifeforms used include: <br />Annual /biennial forbs Perennial forbs <br />Annual grasses Perennial cool season grasses <br />If the index of similarity between the species density within the specified lifeforms of the <br />reclaimed and reference areas exceeds 63 %, then Test C is passed. <br />Alternative Test D): Native Species Presence Assessment <br />The third alternative assessment of the reclaimed land species diversity makes direct reference to <br />the presence of native western North American plant species in reclaimed areas as follows: <br />20 <br />