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<br />METHODOLOGIES <br />All of the data collected during the 1991 monitoring effort were obtained <br />using identical sampling methodologies, equipment and methods of data <br />analysis as utilized in all prior reclamation monitoring efforts pertormed at this <br />site and which have previously been approved by the Division. The vegetative <br />parameters sampled in 1991 included; total plant cover, production, and woody <br />plant densities. <br />Cover. Plant cover was estimated using an inclined metal ten point frame, with <br />transects measuring 50 meters in length placed randomly throughout the area <br />to be sampled. Transect orientation at each sample point was determined using <br />a hand held calculator generating random numbers that were assigned to the <br />major compass headings. The interval between transects was determined using <br />random numbers generated from the calculator. Once this point had been <br />identified, a 50 meter long transect tape was laid out. Along each transect, 100 <br />data points were collected at ten randomly obtained intervals, then averaged <br />into a single datum for statistical evaluation. <br />Plant cover was identified to the species level, wherever possible, and <br />recorded onto field data forms. Litter, bare ground, lichens, and rock were also <br />recorded during the cover sampling. Litter was defined as that plant material <br />that had been dead for at least one year prior to sampling. Plant material that <br />had dried prior to sampling, but was a product of the 1991 growing season <br />(dried annual plants produced during the 1991 growing season, such as <br />cheatgrass), was counted as live plant cover. A total of five transects were <br />sampled for each reclaimed area sampled. <br />Production. Total forage production was estimated by clipping at ground level, <br />all plants growing within a one quarter meter circular plot. Clipped material from <br />2 <br />