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The final step for the Test B assessment is a straight comparison of the mean total species density of the <br />reclaimed area to the reference area - derived standard number (above). If the reclaimed area mean <br />exceeds the standard, the Test B is passed. <br />Alternative Test C): Species Density Distribution Assessment Among Lifeforms <br />This test relates to the distribution of species presence among the various lifeforms in comparison to the <br />reference areas. This standard uses the Motyka similarity index to assess the resemblance of species <br />density distribution by lifeform of the reclamation vegetation to that of the reference areas. Because the <br />average internal resemblance (i.e. between - sample similarity) of applicable reference areas for species <br />density data is often in the range of 70 %, the standard is 63% (0.9 x 70 %). (The assessment of internal <br />similarity was performed on data from the extended reference areas.) <br />The Motyka similarity index is used as follows: <br />2c <br />is <br />"zo = (d + 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 Seneca IN Reference Areas (weighted based on <br />11 % original extent of Aspen, 35% original extent of Mountain Brush, 31 % original extent of Sagebrush, <br />13% original extent of Steep Mountain Brush and 10% original extent of Western Wheatgrass /Alkali <br />Sagebrush). <br />Only species density by vascular plants are included. Lifeforms used include: <br />Annual /biennial forbs <br />Annual grasses <br />Perennial forbs <br />Perennial cool season grasses <br />If the index of similarity between the species density within the specified lifeforms of the reclaimed and <br />reference areas exceeds 63 %, then Test C is passed. <br />9 <br />