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V. SAMPLING METHODOLOGY AGENCY COORDINATION On July 2, 1996, Michael Savage met with Mr. Larry Routten of CDMG to discuss development of historic record revegetation success criteria at the West Elk Mine. Based on a review of the proposed historic record concept for the West Elk Mine, CDMG endorsed the historic record proposal in concept. CDMG suggested further discussion on se]ecton of the historic record area (the selection process was detailed earlier), determination of specific average parameters, characterization of climatic data, and management of grazing at the study area. On July 23, 1996, CDMG, MCC, and Savage and Savage representatives met at the West Elk Mine to further discuss the historic record concept. During this meeting, the available locations for the historic record vegetation community were evaluated, and the remaining issues were addressed. Sampling of the historic record vegetation community occurred in August 1996 as did sampling of the historic record study area soils. The historic record concept and plan for development of the historic record revegetation success criteria were approved by CDMG in a permit revision (PR07). MAPPING Prior to initiation of field work, the permit document, aerial photos, and applicable maps were reviewed to evaluate topography, geology, soils, and large scale vegetation communities. A map of the study area at 1:1200 scale (1"=100') was constructed from aerial photography to delineate the study area and establish random sample point _. locations. On a gridded overlay of the map, a Cartesian coordinate grid (10x10 feet) was established. Computer generated random numbers were used to establish a pool of random x,y coordinates. Fifty random sample locations were established within the study area. Sample sites were located in the field through compass triangulation and pacing from known landmarks. Transect orientation was randomly determined by a spinner. Figure 1 illustrates the 1996 vegetation and soil sample point locations in the study area. FIELD SAMPLING Timing Vegetation sampling was conducted August 6 and 7, 1996. This time period coincided with maximum biomass development of the majority of plant species and occurred during or immediately after anthesis of the majority of herbaceous flowering species. Herbaceous production sampling occurred prior to significant drying of graminoid and fort species. Soil sampling of the study area was conducted on August 1, 1996. Light grazing by horses has historically occurred in the study area and other cleared areas on -8-