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(4.10.4(5)). <br /> X. Backfill and Grading—Rule 4.14 <br /> Backfilling and grading is discussed under Section V.G of Vol. 4 of the permit <br /> application. <br /> A. The Division previously approved a variance from the 4 foot standard minimum <br /> cover to a 2.5 foot minimum cover over exposed unoxidized coal seams and refuse <br /> disposal areas. <br /> XI. Revegetation —Rule 4.15 <br /> Vegetation baseline information can be found in Section 11.17,Volume 2 of the application. <br /> Revegetation plan information and methods to be utilized in determination of revegetation <br /> success are addressed in Section V.I and Section V.J of Vol. 4. <br /> A. The Division approves the use of certain introduced species in the reclamation seed <br /> mix. The species proposed have been used successfully within similar climatic zones <br /> in the region. Pursuant to 4.15.2(3),the Division finds that the introduced species are <br /> desirable and necessary to achieve the approved postmining land uses of livestock <br /> grazing and wildlife habitat. <br /> B. The Division approves the use of mulching and cover crops as a means to meet soil <br /> stabilization requirements (4.15.4). Certified noxious weed-free hay and straw mulch, <br /> wood fiber mulch with tackifier, or stubble mulch will be used on the reclaimed sites. <br /> Straw/hay mulch is applied at a rate of 2.0 tons/acre, and crimped into the soil. If <br /> stubble mulch will be used, oats, barley,winter wheat, or Regreen will be planted at <br /> specified rates, depending on nature and timing of seeding. <br /> C. Methods to measure herbaceous cover and production, species diversity, and woody <br /> plant density are discussed in Section V of the permit application. These techniques <br /> include the use of comparisons to a reference area. Herbaceous and woody plant <br /> cover will be sampled using a modified belt transect. Herbaceous productivity will be <br /> measured using 0.25 m2 quadrants. <br /> D. Comparisons between reclaimed and undisturbed areas, in order to demonstrate that <br /> success criteria of 4.15.8, 4.15.9, or 4.15.10 have been met, will be based on reference <br /> area comparisons for cover and production, and comparison to technical standards for <br /> woody plant density and species diversity. The Division approves the basis for these <br /> comparisons. <br /> E. The Division approves of the reference areas which the applicant has selected based <br /> on the requirements of Rule 4.15.7(3). <br /> F. The reference areas will be utilized to determine revegetation success in a manner <br /> xxxiv <br />