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Field sampling for the directly measurable variables of ground cover, production, and woody plant <br />density was systematically conducted from July 28 through August 3, 2008. The growing season prior to <br />and during the sampling period could be qualitatively characterized as above average with regard to <br />precipitation. Sampling occurred immediately following the peak of growth in July. Field efforts in 2008 <br />were conducted by or under the direct supervision of Cedar Creek's Senior Range / Wildlife Ecologist, Mr. <br />Steven R. Viert, Senior Plant Ecologist, Mr. Erik M. Mohr, and Range Ecologist. Mr. Jesse H. Dillon. <br />The remainder of this document is divided into logical sections. Section 2.0 provides the <br />methodology utilized for these investigations, whereas, Section 3.0 provides results and discussion. Raw <br />data tables are presented in Appendix A. Acreages presented in this document are reasonably accurate <br />as determined by Cedar Creek and are based on mapping provided by Colowyo. <br />Precipitation data presented on Table P and Chart P is the average of two weather stations at the <br />Colowyo Mine (SCN16 and WSTPT). Precipitation in the project area was determined to be above <br />average when compared with the eight -year average for the 2007 / 2008 growing season (September <br />2007 through August 2008). However, this eight -year average is potentially below the actual long -term <br />average for the mine given that 2001 through 2004 are recognized as below- average precipitation years <br />region wide (drought years). For example, the nearest official weather station (Craig 4SW) received only <br />44% of its average precipitation in 2001, 61% in 2002, 86% in 2003, and 83% in 2004. Given this <br />analysis the long -term average precipitation at the Colowyo mine is most likely in the 19 inch range as <br />opposed to the recent seven -year average of 17.7 inches. Therefore, precipitation during the 2007 / <br />2008 growing season (20.0 inches) was most likely slightly above average as opposed to well above <br />average. Precipitation during the growing season was above average with April, May, and June <br />exhibiting 1.94, 2.79, and 1.08 inches, respectively. <br />Cedar Creek Associates, Inc. Page 2 Colowyo Mine <br />Phase III Bond Release Evaluation <br />