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The CMLRA did not contain quantitative vegetation parameters for determining <br />success of reclamation, but rather contained subjective criteria calling for vegetation <br />sufficient to control erosion. Through discussions between P&M and the CDMG, it <br />was mutually agreed that a vegetation cover value of 47% would fulfill the <br />requirement of vegetation sufficient to control erosion. This value was based in part <br />on a previous reclamation liability release for the remainder of East Ridge and the <br />vegetation cover value required for previously disturbed land at the Edna Mine. <br />Although, vegetation measurements taken during the bond release for the remainder <br />of East Ridge estimated the mean vegetation cover value at 22% and the area <br />appeared stable in terms of erosion, it was believed that 47% vegetation cover was <br />more appropriate and would be consistent with the minimum vegetation cover value <br />required for previously disturbed lands. <br />Total absolute vegetation cover for East Ridge in 1997 was 64.3% and included the <br />following life-forms: perennial grasses - 33.7%, perennial forbs - 18.5%, shrubs - <br />9.9%, annuals and biennials - 2.1%, and noxious weeds - 0.2%. In 1998, East Ridge <br />total absolute vegetation cover was 55.9% and included the following life-forms: <br />perennial forbs - 17.4%, perennial grasses - 16.9%, shrubs - 6.9%, annuals and <br />biennials - 14.3%, and noxious weeds - 0.4%. Appendix B provides the vegetation <br />sampling data collected during July 1997 and August 1998. <br />Various Agropyron spp. and Bromus inerme were the major perennial grass species. <br />These species all have: high revegetation potential; medium to high biomass <br />potential; provide fair to good cover for small mammals, game and non-game birds; <br />good forage palatability for cattle; fair to good forage palatability for sheep, and have <br />a fair to good food value for elk, small mammals, game and non-game birds. <br />Medicago sativa was the major perennial forb species. While this species has the <br />potential to cause "bloat" in livestock, it is an important source of forage for wildlife <br />and provides good cover for small mammals, game and non-game birds. Noxious <br />weeds, while present, only occur infrequently as small patches over the area. <br />