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II. METHODS --- , <br />SAMPLING DI'sSIGN <br />Prior to initiation of fieldwork, the permit document and applicable maps were reviewed <br />to evaluate topography, reclamation timing, seed mixes, revegetation methods, awd <br />applicable revegetation standazds. Figure 1 depicts an overview of the new I;reasewood <br />reference area at the Cameo Mine that was sampled in 1999. <br />The reap used to delineate the area to be sampled was Exhibit 52, Cameo Refuse Disposal <br />Area No.3. On a gridded overlay of the map, a 25x25 foot Cartesian coordinate grid was <br />established. Computer generated random numbers were used to establish a pool of <br />random x,y coordinates. Fifty random sample locations were established witttirt the new <br />reference azea. Sample sites were located in the field through compass triangulation and <br />pacing from known landmarks. Transect orientation was determined by computer <br />generated random compass directions (nwnbers from 0 to 360). Figure 2 illustrates the <br />1999 vegetation sample transect locations at the reference azea. <br />FIELD SAMPLING . <br />Timing <br />Field investigations for vegetation cover, herbaceous production, species composition and <br />woody plant density were undertaken during the period June 22 to 24, ] 999. This time <br />period coincided with anthesis and maximUrn development of the majority of plant species <br />found in the native vegetation community to be evaluated. <br />Vegetation Sampling <br />Vegetation sampling was performed in compliance with Colorado Mined Land <br />Reclamation Boazd Surface Coal Mining Rules 2.04.10 and 4. ] 5 and current botanical and <br />plant ecological methods. Within the new greasewood reference area total vegetation <br />cover by species, total herbaceous production by lifeform, woody plant density by species, <br />and species composition data were collected. <br />Vegetation Cover <br />Vegetation cover was estimated by the use: of the point-intercept method. An ocular point <br />frame (ESCO Associates) was used to minimize instrument error and maxim~~e precision <br />and observer accuracy. Cover transects were 25 meters in length. with two sample data <br />points collected at 1.0 meter intervals along the transect on opposite sides of the transect • <br />centerline, 1.5m apart. Transect direction was established randomly through use of <br />-2- <br />