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Observation of reclaimed areas at Colowyo, one would expect a reduction of annuals prior to the <br />seventh year of reclamation. The area has also experience two years of substantially below <br />average precipitation. The dryer conditions may have contributed to 2013 sampling having a <br />higher percentage of annual species. CCC will need to continue to monitor these parcels to <br />watch for recovery. If the annual species continue to dominate, mitigation efforts may be <br />warranted. <br />The Division reminds CCC that Cheatgrass (Bromus tectorum) is on the state noxious weed list <br />(Colorado Department of Agriculture, C list species). Although the presence of Cheatgrass does <br />not require weed control measures, unless present to the exclusion of other desirable species, it <br />does not count towards reclamation success values. <br />The Division noted that the vegetation report counted EP050 as having achieved its seventh year <br />following seeding. EP050 was seeded in 2007 (2007 ARR). CCC usually seeds in the fall, <br />therefore, 2013 vegetation sampling represents the sixth year following seeding for the EP050 <br />parcel. <br />CCC also provided survival data on the Tall Shrub study plot. This plot was implemented in <br />2011. With containerized tree and shrubs transplanted in November 2011. CCC replaced <br />individuals that had died in 2012. The 2013 results represent the second year since the plot was <br />installed. At this early stage of the study greater survival was seen by SenTiceberry and Mountain <br />mahogany on the shallower soils. Continued observations will be necessary before this study will <br />provide definitive results to apply to future reclamation efforts. <br />