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the line intercept method was used to collect baseline vegetative <br />information, the more efficient point intercept method will be used to <br />determine vegetative cover in the future. Cover sampling involves the <br />establishment of random, 50 meter transects and the use of a standard <br />10-point frame. Vegetative diversity will also be determined using the <br />vegetative cover data. Woody plant density will be determined utilizing 50 <br />meter X 1 meter belt transects along the same sample lines established <br />for vegetative cover measurements. <br />3. Comparisons between reclaimed and undisturbed areas, in order to <br />demonstrate that success criteria of Rule 4.15.8, 4.15.9, or 4.15.10 have <br />been met, will be based on the following: <br />a. Determination of revegetation success will involve a comparison of <br />vegetative cover data for reclaimed and reference areas utilizing <br />the t-test method. If absolute value of cover for reclaimed areas is <br />greater than or equal to the calculated 90% confidence level for the <br />reference area value, then the means between the areas shall be <br />determined statistically equivalent and vegetative cover will meet <br />regulatory success standards. <br />b. Species diversity shall be considered adequate when the four <br />dominant species, based on plant cover, comprise no more than <br />80% of the total species composition. The two dominant warm <br />season grass species shall collectively comprise at least 50% of <br />total plant cover composition. <br />C. When the woody plant sampling data are greater or equal to the <br />90% confidence interval for corresponding revised woody plant <br />counts, revegetation will be deemed adequate for woody plant <br />density. Revised woody plant counts for the refuse pile and <br />loadout areas are 7.6 and 6.3 stems per acre respectively. <br />Conventional methods using the t-test method will be used in the <br />Ponderosa pine/pinion/juniper areas. The 90% equal or greater <br />than confidence level will be employed in these areas. <br />The Division has reviewed these techniques and approved the use of <br />these methods as a basis of comparison with the approval of Technical <br />Revision No.15, approved 12/1/93. <br />4. The Division proposes to approve the reference areas that the applicant <br />has selected based on the requirements of Rule 4.15.7(3). <br />5. The reference areas will be utilized to determine revegetation success in a <br />manner that the Division finds acceptable. 4.15.7(4) <br />Page 31 of 36