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4-93 <br />• When Ixl - x2is less than or equal to the other calculated <br />value, the affected area and reference area are considered <br />comparable for the purpose of evaluating reclamation success. <br />4.8.5 Reference Area Sampling Design <br />All sample sites were located by a random process. The south- <br />western corner of each reference area served as the intersection <br />with an x and y coordinate system. Positive coordinates were <br />produced by a random number generator. The exact sample point <br />was then paced off by the field ecologist. <br />4.8.6 Measurements <br />• 4.8.6.1 Collection and Analysis of Cover Data <br />Cover was estimated using a point-intercept method along randomly <br />located and oriented transects (Mueller-DOmbois and Ellenberg <br />1974). Twenty points were sampled along the 50 meter length <br />transects. Paired points were sampled at each 5 meter interval <br />of the transect. Each paired point was 0.75 meter from the <br />transect and perpendicular to the transect. <br />The siting device was mounted on an adjustable tripod to facili- <br />tate vertical orientation and point stabilization. Fine cross <br />hairs were used in the siting device to provide optimum point <br />definition. At each sample point, the siting device was first <br />directed vertically upward, then vertically downward. If a tree <br />. and/or shrub was intercepted a second or third hit was taken. <br />