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cover sampling. In 2016 testing,the total number of native species encountered in the first eleven <br /> 100 sq. m. (2 m x 50 m) samples of the 2016 BRB-2 Phase III and Phase II+ III release area that <br /> constituted an adequate cover sample equaled 46 (Table J-8,Attachment D), substantially greater <br /> than the weighted reference area average native species density of 23.3 species per 100 sq.m. <br /> Hence Alternative Test D is passed for 2016 data. <br /> In summary for 2016 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 2015 <br /> and 2016. <br /> POSTNUNING LAND USE <br /> The postmine land uses for the Yoast mine are livestock grazing and wildlife habitat. Grazing has <br /> 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 livestock <br /> grazing reclaimed lands at the Yoast mine. The grazing season at Yoast has historically been from <br /> August through September. The 2015 estimated stocking rate based on available herbaceous <br /> production data, forage palatability and a fifty percent (50%) proper use factor was 1.4 acres per <br /> animal unit month (AUM -the forage required for one animal unit for one month). The estimated <br /> stocking rate for 2016 based on available herbaceous production, forage palatability and the above <br /> proper use factor was 1.28 acres per AUM. These values reflect a range of historic stocking rate <br /> levels at the Yoast Mine. The lower stocking rates in 2015 represent below normal winter through <br /> early summer precipitation and above normal temperatures while the higher 2016 stocking rates <br /> reflect above normal precipitation and near normal temperatures. The ability of the reclaimed <br /> lands to provide good stocking rate values for 2015 and 2016 represent the results of implemented <br /> best practices for reclamation,management of the reclaimed areas and the restoration of ecosystem <br /> function and continuing successional development of the reclaimed lands. With the exception of <br /> the aspen community the native lands within the mine area have generally lower stocking potential <br /> due to heavy woody composition that reduces herbaceous forage production and access. <br /> SL-7 - 26 <br />