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annuals. Species with medium longevity are included to help maintain competition with the weedy annuals and to aid in the long term stability of the site. Some species in this classification may persist in the stand for many decades by reseeding themselves. Others will eventually be replaced by slower maturing but longer lived, typically native, species. The long lived species comprise the majority of what is generally termed the 'permanent' vegetation. These species typically are slow to establish and/or mature but are very persistent once established. The intent is not to establish an ecosystem with only the species seeded but to provide for a relatively stable ecosystem capable of supporting the postmining land use. As natural successional stages advance the ecosystem will mature by the continued growth of the shrub component and dispersion and establishment from adjacent endemic ecotypes and species. Over the long term the genetic material seeded may or may not persist but rather could be replaced by that from the adjacent undisturbed lands. b. Seeding is usually performed in the mid to late fall or winter once the ground has cooled adequatelyto maintain dormancy of the seed for spring germination. Dormant fall seeding takes advantage of the relatively moist spring. Spring seeding is also acceptable but somewhat less desirable since moist conditions during this time of year could Lead to soil compaction or delays beyond the optimum planting time. If spring seeding is used it is recommended that the seed be stored in a location that will provide cold stratificationto avoid dormancy problems. c. Fertilization can help or hinder desirable plant establishment. Adequate nutrients need to be available for seedling establishment. One must keep in mind that nitrogen fertilization also promotes competition from annual weeds. Therefore, fertilizers must be used sparingly when competition from weedy species is an issue. It is recommended that nitrogen not be applied initially and phosphate be applied only as needed when competition from weedy annuals is a concern. Fertilizer may be broadcast as needed to assist in seedling establishment if signs of nutrient deficienciesoccur and annual weeds do not appear to be a problem. d. Variations in seed mixtures and rates may be necessary to obtain the diversity standards. To establish shrubs aggressivegrasses may have to be reduced or eliminated over narrow strips in the reclaimed area. The reduced competition would enhance the shrubs' chances of establishment. This approach can be achieved by varying the seed mixture initially or by eliminating strips of grass chemically or mechanically and interseeding with the desired species. For example, when drill seeding, two to three drill rows maybe isolated to seed only the shrub or forb species; excluding the grasses. ExhibitE-Reclamation Plan Rio Blanco Special Use Permit#61.1 September2000 V-12