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. headwater locations or on relatively gentle grades often within water harvesting diver- sions on reclaim sideslopes. Water harvesting diversions are channels constructed across slopes with a supporting ridge on the lower side that is used to transport excess water from areas that need pro- tection to sites where water can be used or disposed of safely. A diversion's effectiveness as a sediment reducing measure is in diverting the runoff which would otherwise flow across erosion susceptible areas, thus detaching and transporting soil particles. Contour farming and live haul topsoil transport are used on all reclaimed sideslopes and drainage areas when possible. Topsoil replacement, seedbed preparation, and planting are done on the contour. Contouring can reduce erosion by 40 to 50 percent. When contour farming is combined with live material topsoil transport the erosion loss poten- tial can be further reduced. Contouring provides excellent erosion control by reducing transport from moderate rainfall events. Contouring in combination with diversion establishment can be very effective in reducing erosion potential. Rock check structures are used to dissipate the energy of flowing water within the drainageway channel. Debris and sediment tend to be deposited and trapped upstream of structures. This in turn permits establishment of vegetation behind structures which further stabilize the channel. In addition, filter fabric is installed and used to fine rack check structure core trenches, thus providing additional structural support and reduces the potential for advancement of downstream headcutting to move upstream. Cover crops and mulch are used very effectively in drainageways to reduce the detach- ment of soil by rainfall and runoff while providing seasonal protection and soil improve- ment. Cover crops provide protection from wind and water erosion during vegetation establishment periods when permanent vegetation is inadequate to provide adequate cover. Permanent vegetative (grasses, (orbs and shrubs) cover provides the most significant and permanent long term solution to erosion control problems. The selection of species adapted to the climate and soils is one of the most important steps in achieving success. Woody plants are desirable for the long term stability of a particular site. However, woody plants require time to develop sufficient size to control erosion adequately and the quick cover that can be obtained with grasses and (orbs is needed in the interim. The principles for selection of herbaceous vegetation is based on a particular species adapta- tion to the mine site and its erosion control potential. The idea] species have strong root development. A diverse mixture of plant species increases the assurance of a stand as it is difficult to anticipate all of the variables that will affect germination and stand estab- lishment on any given site. Willow wattles and woody seedling transplants are installed in drainageways and serve as energy dissipaters for water and soil moving down the drainageway and provide long term stability. Woody plants filter and trap entrained debris (soil, small rocks, veg litter) • and provide a series of areas with reduced slope angles on which vegetation can be established. Deep rooted woody vegetation prevents gully formation and will become part of the permanent stabilizing cover.