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approaches for the entire permit azea is acceptable. Requested clarification regarding reference azeas was provided. The sagebrush reference area established in 1981 and the mountain shrub reference azea established in 1980 would be the primary reference azeas used for the Lower Wilson project area. Item Resolved. 25. The operator responded that data and analyses from the 1985 report by Dr. Richard Harner for the CCC Danforth project that covers the South Taylor project area would be substituted for the 1999 Greystone study. Dr. Harner's methods were comparable to Cedar Creek 2005 methods. Data from the 1999 Greystone study is still referenced on amended pages 76 and 77, rather than data from the 1985 CCC study. For the reasons outlined in the response letter, it would seem that the reference to 1999 data should be withdrawn and replaced with reference to 1985 data (or alternatively that the text should include reference to the 1985 data in addition to the 1999 data). To correspond with the recommended text changes, it would seem that Table 2.04.10-10 (formerly Table 2.04.10-22) should be likewise amended to include data summary from the 1985 study. Also, the table should clearly identify which big sagebrush and mountain shrub reference azeas are listed (existing Colowyo vs. Hamer Study South Taylor). Finally, to allow for more meaningful comparison, 2005 herbaceous cover means should be provided for the various sampled communities and reference areas, in addition to the total plant cover means reported in the current report. Notation in the table or appropriate text on pages 76 and 77 should explain the cover sampling methodology differences that must be taken into account. Please address these requests and amend the referenced text and table as appropriate. 26. Reference to Lower Wilson Vegetation Map 4A was proper) y amended to Map 4B (4A is the South Taylor Map). Item Resolved. 27. Weighting for original Colowyo disturbances will be based on original mapping ratios (45% sagebrush and 55% mountain shrub). Based on preliminary disturbance footprint for Lower Wilson project, weighting would be 8% sagebrush and 92% mountain shrub. Lower Wilson, and original Colowyo projects will use the original (1981) sagebrush reference area and original (1980) mountain shrub reference azea. See "Justification for Reference Area Selection" in revised Section 2.04.10. Narrative in Section 4.15.8 "Revegetation Success Criteria" on amended page R4-24 needs to be revised to correspond to the reference area selection narrative of amended Section 2.04.10. Additionally, the 4.15.8 narrative should be amended to incorporate the reference area weighting percentage described in the adequacy letter response for the original mine area and Lower Wilson project area. Regarding the South Taylor project area, please refer to Items 29 through 35. 28. Item Resolved.