Laserfiche WebLink
The proposed seed mixtures include a number of tree and shrub species which, in combination with natural re - <br />invasion, should be effective in reestablishing both the herbaceous and woody components of the affected plant <br />•communities. Where appropriate, woody species may be separately cross -seeded or strip -seeded to reduce <br />competition and enhance woody reestablishment. In the unlikely event however, that woody species <br />reestablishment from seed and natural re -invasion is determined to be inadequate based on early revegetation <br />monitoring, TCC may selectively utilize supplemental transplanting to increase woody plant densities and <br />reestablish the woody plant component. Selective transplanting of serviceberry, chokecherry, and Gambel's oak in <br />concentrated areas may also be selectively used as a supplement to seeding for grouse habitat enhancement in order <br />to provide cover, forage, and edge -effect. Adaptive nursery stock seedlings will be planted in the spring while in a <br />dormant state. Seedlings will be placed, along with slow-release fertilizer, with soil tamped around the seedlings. <br />Seedling plantings will be selectively located to take advantage of natural runoff and water capture patterns, in <br />order to avoid the need for supplemental watering. <br />• <br />Mulching <br />Mulch is defined in Rule 1.04 as a material that aids in soil stabilization, promotes soil moisture conservation and <br />encourages plant germination and growth. Numerous studies have shown that topsoil itself is highly effective as a <br />mulch, due to its ability to control erosion and assist in moisture conservation (Power et al. 1974; USDA-ARS- <br />NDSU 1975; Dollhopf et al. 1977). It is the opinion of TCC that mulch in the form of an organic plant material <br />residue is unnecessary to achieve the three regulatory goals of controlling erosion, promoting germination and <br />increasing soil moisture content. TCC contends that, under the definition of mulch set forth in Rule 1.04, the <br />reapplication of topsoil, as provided by this reclamation plan, satisfies the requirement for mulch set forth at Rule <br />RN08-05 2.05-112.1 03/12/10 <br />