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Regarding Alternative Test C,this test uses the Motyka similarity index to assess the resemblance <br /> of the distribution of species density by life form of the reclamation vegetation compared to that <br /> of the Reference Areas. The Motyka index formula used is: <br /> 2c <br /> (a+ b) <br /> As used in Test C,the index assesses similarity between the lifeform species density values for the <br /> prescribed lifeforms for the 2015 BRB-2 Phase III and Phase II + III release area and the Mean <br /> Species density(area-weighted)in the four reference areas(text and Table J-3 Attachment D).The <br /> resulting Motyka similarity index value is 72%,exceeding 90%of the standard(0.9 x 70%=63%). <br /> Hence Alternative Test C is passed for 2015 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 2015 testing,the total number of native species encountered in the first thirteen <br /> 100 sq. m. (2 m x 50 m) samples of the 2015 BRB-2 Phase III and Phase II + III release area that <br /> constituted an adequate cover sample equaled 52 native species (Table J-4, Attachment D), <br /> substantially greater than the weighted reference area average native species density of 23.9 <br /> species per 100 sq.m. <br /> Hence Alternative Test D is passed for 2015 data. <br /> In summary for 2015 species diversity evaluations, Mandatory Test A was passed as were <br /> Alternative Tests B, C and D. <br /> 2016 Species Diversity Success Evaluations <br /> Success for Mandatory Test A requires that no single species comprise greater than 60% relative <br /> cover in the 2016 reclaimed Phase III and Phase II + III bond release area. Table J-5 of the <br /> revegetation monitoring report (Attachment D — Revegetation Success Supporting <br /> Documentation)shows that the most abundant single species alfalfa(Medicago sativa)was 28.2% <br /> relative first-hit cover,well below the 60%threshold of concern. <br /> SL-7 - 24 <br />