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<br />REVEGETATION <br />Low precipitation and a short growing season could make veg- <br />etation reestablishment following mining difficult. The BLM has <br />determined that, although difficult, successful reclamation is <br />possible (Environmental Assessment C-27931; pages 8,15,16, and <br />25, Appendix H, Vol. 3 of the permit application). Erratic grow- <br />ing season precipitation may necessitate several seedings before <br />successful establishment. When the permanent cover is estab- <br />lished, the soil surface will be stabilized. The permanent seed <br />mix to be used provides utility similar to that of premining <br />use. Green needlegrass will be used instead of Letterman needle- <br />grass due to seed availability. Douglas rabbitbrush seed will be <br />included if available. Other species in the mix will provide for <br />forage production and cover. <br />The applicant needs to describe the methods used to monitor <br />the success of revegetation. Therefore, the following stipula- <br />tion is proposed: <br />~~ The applicant must provide a plan for monitoring revegeta- <br />~, tion success. The plan must be submitted within 90 days of <br />permit issuance for approval by the regulatory authority. <br />The applicant proposes to use an introduced species, pubesc- <br />ent wheatgrass in the seed mix (Page 16, Addendum I and page 12, <br />Addendum II of the permit application). Pubescent wheatgrass is <br />fairly drought- and salt-tolerant, and tolerant to low fertility <br />and moderate sodium levels. It is a good soil stabilization <br />species and provides nesting and escape cover for birds as well <br />as forage for big game. The applicant will monitor its growth <br />and if necessary, control its rate of spread. For these reasons, <br />it is recommended that the use of pubescent wheatgrass be <br />approved. <br />-93- <br />