2009-06-24_PERMIT FILE - C1981019A (3)

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ColoWo Mine Specific Plot Construction and Monitoring All plots were constructed in the fall of 2000. Annual monitoring occurred in July of 2001, 2002, 2003 and 2004. Plots were sampled for vegetative cover by species, bare ground, rock and litter. A point-intercept method was used to estimate cover. Within each plot at Colowyo, five 100-m transects were randomly located. Cover data was collected every one meter along each transect (500 cover points per plot). [To avoid loss of data, Cedar Creek commenced monitoring of these plots beginning in 2005 utilizing more stringent scientific methods.] In addition to cover sampling along these transects, CSU estimated shrub establishment and shrub height in each demonstration plot within small quadrats along each transect. At Colowyo, the quadrats were 0.25 m2 and were located every 20 in along the transect for a total of 6.25 m2 per plot. Within each of these quadrats all shrubs were identified to species and heights of individuals were recorded. Monitoring results were provided each year. A final project report was made available by June 15, 2005. The final report detailed the shrub establishment results by treatment method. Final report results also provided a framework for reclamation plan improvements that are designed to enhance native shrub establishment, vegetation community diversity and wildlife habitat, thereby facilitating reclamation and bond release success. [As noted previously, interpretation of these results must be tempered by the fact that the revegetation year of 2000 at Colowyo was an ideal year climatologically for the establishment of sagebrush and other shrubs from seed, regardless of underlying growth media. This observation was substantiated by excellent shrub establishment across the mine regardless of trials, revegetation metrics, or location.] Each mine will evaluate the successful treatments from the plots at their mine. These techniques may be incorporated into the reclamation plan through a revision to encourage native shrub establishment and to create community diversity. In the interest of determining long-term results, the DMG intends to continue monitoring the plots at regular intervals. Colowyo will be responsible for proper maintenance of the field trial sites, including maintenance of the elk fencing. If excessive erosion develops on any of the plots or a noxious weed infestation is established within the plots Colowyo will contact the Division and implement appropriate remedial treatments as warranted, according to the rill/gully management and noxious weed management plans set forth in the permit application. Due to the slow growth characteristics of woody plant species, and the importance of tracking long-term effects of the treatments on woody plant establishment and plant community development, it is planned that the plots will be maintained and periodically monitored through the bond liability period. Results will be provided in the appropriate annual report. 4.15-10 Revision Date: 3/14/08 Revision No.: TR-72