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would be compared to the average number of native species found in a sampled stand of the <br />Reference Area (i.e. the average Reference Area density): <br />Total cumulative # of native species* > avg. Reference Area native species density (# species / <br />100 sq.m) <br />*in the cumulative presence data from 2m x 50m samples associated with the collection of a <br />statistically adequate cover sample of the reclaimed area (and including alfalfa and/or cicer <br />milkvetch which have often been included in seed mixes as nitrogen - fixers in light of the lack of <br />suitable and available native nitrogen fixers). <br />Woody Plant Density <br />Woody plants and tree species are economically, biologically, and esthetically important to all <br />aspects of post mine land use. SCC has undertaken exhaustive research into the best <br />management practices for establishing woody plants on reclaimed land in Northwestern <br />Colorado. Several studies indicate that woody plants can be established with varying success. <br />SCC has gleaned from these studies, and actual field experience, that the best possible <br />approach is to: <br />1.) Fence new woody species plantings with 8 ft. high elk proof fence; <br />2.) Drill seed or broadcast seed woody species, depending on seed size; <br />3.) Plant seed and seedlings from local genotypes; <br />4.) Transplant local genotype plants; <br />5.) Maximize direct hauled topsoil; <br />6.) Apply vegetation blocking fabric; and, most importantly, for the long -term, <br />7.) Leave large blocks of undisturbed, native vegetation to act as a native seed source, a <br />native source of vegetative propagation, and successful establishment of native woody <br />plants. <br />In regard to point 7) above, SCC was permitted for 924 acres of disturbance within boundaries <br />of the Yoast Mine. Of the 924 acres permitted for disturbance, SCC actually disturbed only <br />772 acres. The undisturbed 152 acres, approximately 16 %, are left as islands and seed sources <br />for the eventual successional rejuvenation of the mined land. The islands and border areas of <br />undisturbed plant communities are: 26.5 acres of aspen; 87.7 acres of mountain shrub; and <br />17.1 acres of sagebrush type. These undisturbed islands and border areas are part of the <br />TR -48 45 06/10 <br />