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statistical method (approved by DRMS) can be used that does not require demonstration of <br />sample adequacy. <br />Reclaimed area cover and production will be compared to a standard equal to the mean values <br />measured at the reference area by sampling, as described below. Revegetation will be considered <br />successful if the mean value for the reclaimed site can be demonstrated to equal or exceed Q <br />(Q=90% of the standard). One of the four methods, discussed in Rule 4.15.11(2), will be used to <br />compare mean values at reclaimed sites to Q, depending on the mean values and whether sample <br />adequacy was reached during sampling. In the event that sample adequacy is achieved for both <br />sites, and the sample mean from the reclaimed site exceeds the standard then revegetation <br />success will be determined by direct comparison (Regulation 4.15.11(2)(a)). However, if sample <br />adequacy is not achieved for one or more sites then one of the statistical comparison tests found <br />in Rule 4.15.11(2) will be used to determine the successfulness of the parameter in question. <br />The ultimate revegetation land uses associated with the NHN Mine all involve some type of <br />pasture, either via irrigation or dryland pasture. The landowners within the NHN Mine area have <br />expressed a desire to reclaim their existing lands, even those dominated by native undisturbed <br />species, such as Sagebrush, to Dryland Pasture, since this is a more productive plant community <br />and is more conducive to livestock management. Therefore, the revegetation success standards <br />associated with species diversity be changed to a forage quality diversity standard and that shrub <br />density be waived in lieu of the requested change in land use. The present land use and <br />vegetation types are not critical or unique as wildlife habitat, nor do they possess any significant <br />value as wildlife habitat when one considers the extensive expanse of native vegetation in the <br />immediate New Horizon Mine area and the fact that much of the existing landscape has been <br />converted to agricultural uses. Seed Mix # 8, the Dryland Seed Mixture, contains species that <br />will supply forage earlier in the spring and later in the fall and thus provide higher nutritional <br />value than do nearly all of the native species. Due to the extended growing season of these <br />species and their higher nutritional value, wildlife species, especially Elk and Deer will naturally <br />concentrate in these areas, thus reducing the pressure on undisturbed areas. <br />Section 2.05.4(2)(e) Page 10 of 14 January 2018 (PR -02) <br />