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2.0 SAMPLING METHODOLOGY <br /> 2.1 Samole Site Selection/Location <br /> A systematic procedure for sample location in the reclaimed and reference units occurred in the <br /> following stepwise manner. First, a fixed point of reference was selected for the unit to facilitate <br /> location of the systematic grid in the field. Second, a systematic grid of appropriate dimensions was <br /> selected to provide a reasonable number of coordinate intersections (e.g., 30)that could then be used <br /> for the set of sample sites. Third, a scaled representation of the grid was overlain on a computer- <br /> generated map of the target unit. Fourth, the initial placement of this grid was implemented by <br /> selection of two random numbers (an X and Y distance) used for locating the first coordinate from the <br /> fixed point of reference, thereby making the effort unbiased. Fifth, where an excess number of <br /> potential sample points (grid intersections) were indicated by overlain maps, the excess points were <br /> randomly chosen for elimination. (If later determined that additional samples would be needed, the <br /> eliminated potential sample sites would be added back in reverse order until enough samples could be <br /> collected.) Sixth, utilizing a GPS,the sample points were located in the field. <br /> Once a selected grid point was located in the field, ground cover sampling transects were always <br /> oriented in the direction of the next site to be physically sampled to further limit any potential bias <br /> while facilitating sampling efficiency. This orientation protocol is shown on Figure 1. Depending on <br /> logistics, timing, and access points to the target sampling area, the field crew may or may not collect <br /> data from sampling points in chronological order. However,orientation protocol was always maintained <br /> (i.e., in the direction of the next point to be physically sampled). If the boundary of an area or <br /> permanent feature within the area was encountered before reaching the full length of a transect, the <br /> orientation of the transect was turned 900 in the appropriate direction so the transect could be <br /> completed. In this manner, boundary transects were retained entirely within the target unit by <br /> "bouncing" off the boundaries. The orientation protocol dramatically reduces the chances of this <br /> happening. <br /> 2.2 Determination of Ground Cover <br /> Ground cover at each sample point was evaluated in accordance with Rule 4.15.11(1)(a)(i) <br /> utilizing the point-intercept methodology as illustrated on Figure 1. Ground cover transects were <br /> implemented at every sample point in the Phase II block and the reference areas for the 2019 <br /> evaluation efforts. As indicated on this figure, Cedar Creek utilizes state-of-the-art instrumentation it <br /> has pioneered to facilitate much more rapid and accurate collection of data. At each sampling location, <br /> a transect of 10 meters length was extended in the direction of the next sampling location. At each <br /> 5 <br />