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2.0 METHODS <br />• 2.1 SAMPLING DESIGN <br />Prior to initiation of fieldwork, the area proposed for disturbance, and applicable maps were <br />reviewed to evaluate topography, vegetation communities, soils, and range condition. A map <br />of the mine site at 1:6000 scale (I"=500') was used to identify the vegetation communities <br />and areas proposed for surface disturbance (NKC; East Alkali Area Sample Projection Map). <br />On a gridded overlay of the map of areas proposed for disturbance, a Cartesian coordinate <br />grid (50x50 feet) was established. Computer generated random numbers were used to <br />establish a pool of x,y coordinates. The limits of the vegetation communities were plotted <br />and random points plotted. Disturbance within the pinyon-juniper vegetation community is <br />sampling projected to be less than three acres identifying it as a "minor" vegetation <br />community under CDMG vegetation sampling guidelines, and qualifying it for a qualitative <br />baseline description. <br />Sample sites were located in the field through compass triangulation and pacing from known <br />landmarks. Figure 1 illustrates the location of vegetation communities. <br />2.2 FIELD SAMPLING <br />2.2.1 Timing <br />Field investigation was undertaken during the period July 13 through July 16, 2005. This <br />• time period coincided with anthesis and maximum development of the majority of plant <br />species found in both native vegetation communities. <br />2.2.2 Vegetation Cover <br />Vegetation cover was estimated by the use of the point-intercept method. An ocular point <br />frame (ESCO Associates) was used to minimize instrument error and maximize precision <br />and observer accuracy. Cover transects were 25 meters in length, with two sample data <br />points collected at 1.0 meter intervais along the transect on opposite sides of the transect <br />centerline, 1.Sm apart. Transect direction was established randomly through the use of <br />computer generated random directions (0-360°). In no event were transects allowed to <br />extend within ten feet of vegetation community boundaries to minimize impacts from "edge <br />effect." <br />For statistical purposes, each cover transect (comprising 50 data points) served as a sample <br />unit. Data points recorded the first vertical "hit" on vegetation (above or below the <br />instrument), soil (baze ground), rock, litter, or cryptogamic crust. Subsequent "hits" on <br />vegetation were also recorded. Cover data were recorded and reported by individual plant <br />species. The first interception was used to calculate total vegetation cover values. Additional <br />interceptions were used to calculate relative cover of individual plant species and lifeforms. <br />The quantitafive cover data also provided the basis for calculation of species composition and <br />relative importance. <br />\J <br />National King Coal LLC Page 2 <br />King it Mine 2005 Baseline Vegetation Report <br />