Laserfiche WebLink
rs <br />i " <br />It is stated that "Reclamation's primary goal is to emphasize the <br />grazing component of the land used by re-establishing a grass <br />dominant vegetative community." It should be noted that reference <br />is maw to both wildlife and 1 ivestock on pages 320, 321, 324, 326, <br />with respect to grazing. Additionally, it is stated that the area <br />was critical Deer and Elk winter range. The woody plant component <br />was undoubtly key in this winter range designation.Finally, 500 <br />stems per acre is basically a grass dominate community. <br />3. Sun Coal will need to provide a written letter of concurrence from <br />DOW stating that they have no objection to eliminating the woody <br />plant density standard. Indicating that they concur is basically <br />hear say and is certainly not enough information to base a decision <br />on. Sun Coal will also need concurrence from both landowners via a <br />written request before approval can be granted.. It is noted that <br />Grassy Creek Coal company has already submitted this information. <br />The revision does make some good points about improving the utilization of <br />forage by deer and elk and providing habitat mosaic that did not exist <br />previously. So, even though the Division feels this woody plant standard of <br />500 stems per acre is achievable and desirable for the post mining land use, <br />we will be able to approve a reduction with solid letters of concurrence from <br />DOW and John Eil ts. <br />If you have any questions or require additional information please contact me. <br />Sincerely, <br />~~~ <br />Anthony J. Waldron <br />Recl amati on Speci al is t <br />AJW/eke <br />6079E <br />