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2.0 SAMPLING METHODS <br />2.1 Sample Layout <br />The sample layout protocol for the revegetation evaluations in 2006 and 2007 largely followed <br />procedures detailed in permitting documents. These procedures are designed to better account for the <br />heterogeneous expression of established vegetation within the various reclaimed areas while precluding <br />bias in the samples site selection process. By design, the procedure is initiated randomly, and thereafter, <br />samples are IocatE~d in a systematic manner, along grid coordinates spaced at fixed distances, e.g. 125 ft. <br />(see Figure 1 -lower left corner, and Maps 1 - 4). In this manner, "representation" from across the <br />entire reclaimed area is "forced" rather than risking the chance that significant pockets (or seedings) are <br />entirely missed or overemphasized as often occurs with simple random sampling. Sample site selection <br />within the established reference areas occurred in a similar manner, but with smaller grid intervals. <br />The procedure for sample location within the reclaimed area or reference areas occurred as follows. <br />First, a fixed point of reference that could be relocated from year to year was selected. This fixed <br />reference point was the center of a dry sediment pond (see Map 1 & 3). Use of this point facilitated <br />location of the systematic grid in the field. Second, a systematic grid of appropriate dimensions (e.g., <br />125 ft. X 125 ft.) was selected to provide approximately 30 to 35 coordinate intersections within each <br />sampling unit, which could then be used for sample sites. Third, a scaled, computer generated <br />representation of 'the selected grid was overlain on a computer generated map of the area utilizing north- <br />south and east-west compass points which could be easily established in the field. This overlain grid also <br />facilitated identification of the vegetation type for each sample point. Initial placement of the grid was <br />controlled by the Fourth step, selection of a pair of random numbers (between 0 and 200 ft.) to facilitate <br />location of the initial coordinate point from center of the sediment pond. In 2006, these random <br />coordinates were 101' (west) and 66' (south) for the revegetated Riparian Area and 62' (west) and 55' <br />(south) for the revegetated Grassland Area. In 2007, these random coordinates were 132' (west) and <br />35' (south) for the revegetated Riparian Area and 12' (east) and 33' (south) for the revegetated <br />Grassland Area. IFifth, utilizing a hand held surveying compass and hip-chain (or pacing techniques) all <br />sample points were located in the field and flagged. The locations of all sample sites utilized during 2006 <br />and 2007 samplin~~ efforts are indicated on Maps 1 through 4. <br />Once a selected grid point was located in the field, sampling transects were always oriented in the <br />direction of the next site to be physically sampled to further limit any potential bias while facilitating <br />sampling efficiency. This orientation protocol follows that which is indicated on Figure 1. Depending on <br />CEDAR CREEK ASSOCIATES, Inc. Page 4 Blue Ribbon Mine -Phase III <br />Bond Release Evaluation - 2007 <br />