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H. METHODS TIMING Field investigation was undertaken during the period August 9-11, 1996. This time period coincided with anthesis and maximum development of the majority of plant species found in both the native vegetation community (Osgood Sand Reference Area) and the reclaimed areas at the mine site to be evaluated. The site was inspected periodically in June and July to assess plant growth prior to sampling. SAMPLING DESIGN Prior to initiation of field work, the permit document and applicable maps were reviewed to evaluate topography, reclamation timing, seed mixes, revegetation methods, and applicable revegetation standards. A map of the mine site at 1:2400 scale (1"=200') was used to delineate the 1985, 1986, and 1987 revegetated areas (Coors Site Plan Vegetation Sampling Locations). On a gridded overlay of the revegetation map, a Cartesian coordinate grid (100x100 feet) was established. Computer generated random numbers were used to establish a • pool of x,y coordinates. Since the reclaimed areas for the three years to be evaluated were non-contiguous (i.e., they were separated by haul road corridors), the 1985, 1986, and 1987 revegetated areas were gridded separately. The acreage of each revegetated area was established. Fifteen random sample locations were established for each reclamation year's revegetated area. Within each year's revegetation, sufficient samples were established to represent each discontinuous area by proportional acreage. For example, the 1986 revegetated area contains three parcels (west, central, and east). The parcels represent 18%(west), 50%(central), and 32%(east) of the total 1986 revegetated area. Of fifteen total cover transects, three were taken in the west parcel, eight in the central parcel, and four in the east parcel to achieve proportionate representation. Sample sites were located in the field through wmpass triangulation and pacing from known landmarks. Figure 1 illustrates the location of the 1985, 1986, and 1987 reclaimed areas and sample point locations. The Osgood Sand Reference Area was measured and mapped in the field in 1994, and a scaled drawing of the reference area was drawn. On the scaled drawing, a Cartesian coordinate grid (50x50 feet) was established. Computer generated random numbers were used to establish a pool of x,y coordinates. Fifteen random sample locations were established for the reference area. Sample sites were located in the field through compass triangulation and pacing from known landmarks. Figure 2 illustrates sample point locations at the Osgood Sand Reference Area. • -2-