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• would be compazed to the av_eta~number of native species found in a sampled stand of the <br />Reference Area (i.e. the average Reference Area density): <br />Total cumulative # of native species* > avg. Reference Area native spedes density (# spedes / <br />100 sq.m) <br />*in the cumulative presence data Eiom 2m a SOm samples associated with the collection of a <br />statistically adequate cover sample of the xeclanned area (and including alfalfa and/or ricer <br />milkvetch which have often beenvaduded in seed miles as nitrogen-fixers in light of the lack of <br />suitable and available native nitrogen fixers). <br />Woody Plant Density <br />The woody plant densities proposed for the reclaimed mining blocks aze based on anticipated <br />levels of successful tree and shrub establishment resulting from application of current <br />reclamation technologies. Planting rates have been specified that take into account mortality <br />levels commonly experienced. Further consideration has been given to environmental, <br />• ecological, and successional factors acting upon the reclaimed areas containing shrubs or trees. <br />The extensive and competitive herbaceous reclaimed communities restrict woody plant <br />establishment and development. This is further complicated by the inherently slow growth and <br />development of woody plants and the significant change in site characteristics on reclaimed <br />mining areas. While reinvasion and natural regeneration of shrubs will greatly aid in returning <br />shrubs on the reclaimed landscape, the above factors aze a significant barrier towards achieving <br />anything that even closely approaches moderate premine densities. <br />The specified overall densities, the densities within the concentrated planting areas, and the <br />pattern of plantings will provide areas within the reclaimed mining blocks where eventual <br />expansion of shrubs may take place. The patterns will benefit wildlife habitat needs and <br />provide cover. In the interim, the herbaceous doatiaated reclaimed azeas will provide <br />substantial foraging benefits for wildlife and livestock and diversify regional habitat. <br />Woody plant density success will be evaluated on the basis of a performance standard. It is <br />proposed that the overall woody plant density standazd for the Yoast Mine be 200 stems per <br />acre. In concentrated planting areas, the woody plant density standard will be 2,000 stems per <br />• acre. However, ~ the concentrated aspen sites the density standazd will be based on future test <br />plot results and planting strategies based on those results. In the mesic drainage-wetter phase <br />PR-02 45 Revised 01/06 <br />