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As used in Test C, the index assesses similarity between the lifeform species density values for <br />the prescribed lifeforms for the 2012 BRB-1 Phase III release area and the Mean Species density <br />(area -weighted) in the four reference areas (text and Table J-3 Attachment D). The resulting <br />Motyka similarity index value is 75%, exceeding 90% of the standard (0.9 x 70% = 63%). <br />Hence Alternative Test C is passed for 2012 data. <br />Alternative Test D is conducted as a direct test of the presence of native species in the reclaimed <br />area as reflected in the cumulative presence of reclaimed area native species within the usual first <br />ten to twenty 2m x 50m plots associated with the species density assessment that accompanies <br />cover sampling. In 2012 testing, the total number of native species encountered in the first <br />eleven 100 sq. m. (2 m x 50 m) samples of the 2012 BRB-1 Phase III release area that <br />constituted an adequate cover sample equaled 42 native species (Table J-4, Attachment D), <br />substantially greater than the weighted reference area average native species density of 27.0 <br />species per 100 sq.m. <br />Hence Alternative Test D is passed for 2012 data. <br />In summary for 2012 species diversity evaluations, Mandatory Test A was passed as were <br />Alternative Tests B, C and D. <br />2014 Species Diversity Success Evaluations <br />Success for Mandatory Test A requires that no single species comprise greater than 60% relative <br />cover in the 2014 reclaimed Phase III bond release area. Table J-5 of the revegetation monitoring <br />report (Attachment D Revegetation Success Supporting Documentation) shows that the most <br />abundant single species alfalfa (Medicago sativa) was 20.5% relative first -hit cover, well below <br />the 60% threshold of concern. <br />Thus, Mandatory Test A is passed based on assessment of 2014 cover data. <br />With regard to Alternative Test B, Total Species Density test, the standard is the point at which <br />the central 75 percent of the distribution of overall species density in the Reference Areas begins. <br />Mathematically this would be the Mean Reference Areas species density (# of species per 100 <br />SL -6 - 26 <br />