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Hence Alternative Test D is passed for 2014 data. <br />In summary for 2014 species diversity evaluations, Mandatory Test A was passed as were <br />Alternative Tests B, C and D. <br />Successful revegetation for the parameter of species diversity was demonstrated in both 2012 <br />and 2014. <br />POSTMINING LAND USE <br />The postmine land uses for the Yoast mine are livestock grazing and wildlife habitat. Grazing <br />has been conducted since 2009 on reclaimed lands at the mine to implement and demonstrate the <br />postmine land use. Proper grazing management has been used to encourage re-establishment and <br />enhancement of native plant diversity and woody plant density. Sheep have been the only <br />livestock grazing reclaimed lands at the Yoast mine. The grazing season at Yoast has historically <br />been from August through September. The 2012 estimated stocking rate based on available <br />herbaceous production data, forage palatability and a fifty percent (50%) proper use factor was <br />1.6 acres per animal unit month (AUM - the forage required for one animal unit for one month). <br />The estimated stocking rate for 2014 based on available herbaceous production, forage <br />palatability and the above proper use factor was 1.2 acres per AUM. These values reflect a range <br />of historic stocking rate levels at the Yoast Mine. The lower stocking rates in 2012 represent <br />below normal winter through early summer precipitation and above normal temperatures while <br />the higher 2014 stocking rates reflect above normal precipitation and near normal temperatures. <br />The ability of the reclaimed lands to provide good stocking rate values for 2012 and 2014 <br />r6present the results of implemented best practices for re6lamation, management of the reclaimed <br />areas and the restoration of ecosystem function and continuing successional development of the <br />reclaimed lands. With the exception of the aspen community the native lands within the mine <br />area have generally lower stocking potential due to heavy woody composition that reduces <br />herbaceous forage production and access. <br />Yoast reclaimed area livestock grazing by sheep was initiated in 2009 using the reclaimed <br />pastures located in the general BRB-1 Phase III release area. A total of 560 sheep were grazed <br />approximately 45 days and forage use averaged 9 percent use of all forage and 19% of the PUF <br />SL -6 - 28 <br />