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2.0 SAMPLING METHODS <br />2.1 Samole Layout <br />The sample layout protocol for the revegetation evaluation is a procedure designed to better <br />account for the heterogeneous expression of the multiple seedings within the various reclaimed areas <br />while precluding bias in the sample site selection process. By design, the procedure is initiated randomly, <br />and thereafter, samples are identified in a systematic manner, along grid coordinates spaced at fixed <br />intervals, e.g. 100 ft. (see Exhibit 1 and Maps 2 through 10). In this manner, "representation" from <br />across the entire reclaimed area is "forced" rather than risking the chance that significant pockets (or <br />seedings) are entirely missed, or overemphasized as often occurs with simple random sampling. Sample <br />site selection within the reference areas occurred in a similar manner, although the grid dimensions were <br />altered accordingly to accommodate the different sizes. <br />The actual procedure for sample site location occurred as follows. First, a fixed point of reference <br />locatable from year to year was selected. Second, a systematic grid of appropriate dimensions (e.g., 100 <br />ft. X 100 ft.) was selected to provide approximately 10 coordinate intersections within each sampling unit <br />(20 for reference areas), 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. Initial placement of <br />the grid was controlled by the fourth step, selection of a pair of random numbers (between 0 and 100) <br />used to facilitate location of the initial coordinate point from the fixed reference location. Fifth, using a <br />hand held surveying compass and hip-chain (or pacing techniques) all sample points were located in the <br />field and temporarily marked. The locations of all 2008 sampling sites are indicated on Maps 2 - 10. <br />Once a selected grid point was located in the field, ground cover sampling transects were always <br />oriented in the direction of the next site to be physically sampled to further limit any potential bias while <br />facilitating sampling efficiency. This orientation protocol follows that which is indicated on Exhibit 1. <br />Depending on logistics, timing, and access points to the target sampling area, the field crew would <br />occasionally layout a set of points along coordinates in one direction and then sample them in reverse <br />order. However, orientation protocol was always maintained (i.e. in the direction of the next point to be <br />physically sampled). If the boundary of an area was encountered before reaching the full length of a <br />transect, the orientation of the transect was turned 90° in the appropriate direction so the transect could <br />be completed within the target unit. In this manner, boundary samples were retained entirely within the <br />target unit by "bouncing" off the boundaries <br />CEDAR CREEK ASSOCIATES, Inc. Page 6 Snowcap Coal Co. - 2008 <br />Revegetation Evaluation