2020-06-08_REVISION - C1982057 (26)

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With regard to Mandatory Test A, that no single species comprise greater than 60% relative cover in the 2016 BRB-3, Table G-1 shows that the most abundant single species Western wheatgrass (Pascopyrum smithii)was 17.6% relative all-hit cover, well below the 60% threshold of concern. Hence Mandatory Test A is Passed for BRB-3 data. With regard to Alternative Test B, the Total Species Density Test, the following is calculated for the 2016 BRB-3 (Table G-2): Mean Species Density of the reference areas = 17.93 species per 100 m2 Probability-adjusted density standard: Mean Species Density of the reference areas— 1.15s = 17.93— 1.15 (3.28) = 14.16 Mean Total Species Density in the 2016 BRB-3 = 19.29 Since the reclaimed area value was greater than the standard, Alternative Test B is Passed for BRB-3 data. Regarding Alternative Test C, the similarity index between the lifeform species density values for the prescribed lifeforms for the 2016 BRB-3 and the Mean Species Density of the reference area is 78% (Table G-3), exceeding 90% of the standard (0.9 x 70% = 63%). Hence Alternative Test C is Passed for BRB-3 data. Regarding Alternative Test D, the total number of native species encountered in the first eleven 100 m2. (2 m x 50 m) samples of the 2016 BRB-3 that constituted an adequate cover sample based on allowable all-hit herbaceous cover and species density was 36 (Table G-4), substantially greater than the reference area average native species density (12.6 species per 100 m2). Hence Alternative Test D is Passed for BRB-3 data. In summary, Mandatory Test A was passed as were Alternative Tests B, C and D. Thus, the species diversity test as a whole is passed for the 2016 BRB-3. This indicates that revegetation is progressing well and is likely to achieve success for species diversity during a future bond release evaluation. 19