2008-12-22_REPORT - C1980001 (2)

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2005 Edna Mine Vegetation Sampling Report 1. Overview The information provided this report follows Colorado Department of Mining and Geology (DMG) requirements to verify that vegetation at The Pittsburg and Midway Coal Mining Company's Edna Mine meets the standards established in the mine reclamation plan. The information provided in this report constitutes Year One of the two years required verification information. The Edna Mine is located approximately four miles north of Oak Creek, Colorado. 1.1. Sampling Methodology Vegetation sampling was conducted in accordance with the Edna Mine Vegetation Final Bond Release Monitoring Plan, dated April 8, 2005, approved by the Colorado DMG. A copy of this plan is available on file at the Colorado DMG. Vegetation sampling was conducted at the Edna Mine from August 29 through September 13, 2005. The survey was conducted by Wayne Erickson and Richard Bonine, Jr. of Habitat Management, Inc. 1.2. Performance Standards and Statistical Analysis Statistical analysis of all data collected was conducted as described in the Colorado DMG's Guideline Regarding Selected Coal Mine Bond Release Issues, April 18, 1995 ("Bond Release Guideline"). When the reclaimed area parameter sample mean is equal to or greater than 90% of the reference area sample mean (or weighted mean), or 90% of the approved technical standard, then reclaimed vegetation is considered successful for that parameter. In order to make a direct comparison, the sample size(s) must meet sample adequacy requirements. Table 1-1 below presents the Edna Mine Bonded Reclaimed Units & Vegetation Performance Standards of the Bond Release Units (BRUs). Tnhlp 9-1- Edna Mine Banded Reclaimed Units & Vegetation Performance Standards Vegetation Parameter Reclaimed Bond Bonded Acres Shrub Release Unit (BRU) (approximate) Cover Production Diversity Density Min 5 Species West Ridge BRU: 22 Reference Area Comparison between 3 & N.A. Topsoiled 40 /a Rel. Importance 90% grass West Ridge BRU: 466 47% N.A. 5% forbs N.A. No-Topsoil 5%tree/shrub Min 5 Species Min 1000 Moffat BRU: Topsoiled 215 Reference Area Comparison b40% Rel.& Stems per Importance acre 90% grass Moffat BRU: 224 47% N.A. 5% forbs N.A. No-Topsoil 5%tree/shrub 1 Diversity Standard for No-Topsoil units is voluntary Habitat Management, Inc.