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Sample sites were located in the field through compass triangulation and pacing from known <br />landmarks. Figure 1. illustrates the location of the reclaimed areas and sample point <br />locations within each area sampled. <br />2.2 FIELD SAMPLING <br />2.2.1 Timing <br />Field investigation was undertaken during the period August 24-29, 2010. This time period <br />coincided with anthesis and maximum development of the majority of plant species found in <br />the reclaimed areas at the mine site to be evaluated. <br />Total annual precipitation at the mine in calendar year 2010 to date was above normal. <br />Cumulative precipitation between September 2009 and July 2010 (growing season <br />precipitation) was 29.6 percent above the seventeen year mine average. While precipitation <br />in the autumn and early winter of 2009 was slightly above average, April and June 2010 <br />precipitation levels far exceeded average, providing significant growing season moisture for <br />cool season species. Hot and dry conditions throughout July and August 2010 affected <br />growth of warm season species, with decreased stature and delayed anthesis this season. <br />2.2.2 Vegetation Cover <br />Vegetation cover was estimated by the use of the point-intercept method. An ocular point <br />18 frame (ESCO Associates) was used to minimize instrument error and maximize precision <br />and observer accuracy. Cover transects were 25 meters in length, with two sample data <br />points collected at 1.0 meter intervals along the transect on opposite sides of the transect <br />centerline, 1.5m apart. Transect direction was established randomly through the use of <br />computer generated random directions (0-360°). In no event were transects allowed to <br />extend within ten feet of revegetated area boundaries to minimize impacts from "edge effect." <br />For statistical purposes, each cover transect (comprising 50 data points) served as a sample <br />unit. Data points recorded the first vertical "hit" on vegetation (above or below the <br />instrument), soil (bare ground), rock, litter, or cryptogamic crust. Subsequent "hits" on <br />vegetation (prior to interception of the ground) were also recorded. Cover data were recorded <br />and reported by individual plant species. The first interception was used to calculate total <br />vegetation cover values. Additional interceptions were used to calculate relative cover of <br />individual plant species and lifeforms. The quantitative cover data also provided the basis for <br />calculation of species composition and relative importance. <br />2.2.3 Herbaceous Production <br />Herbaceous production was estimated by the harvest method. One herbaceous production <br />plot was located and randomly oriented at the origin of each cover transect. Additional <br />production plots were randomly located. Herbaceous production plots were 0.50 square <br />meters in area. All current year above ground live herbaceous plant biomass was clipped <br />Coors Energy Company KeenesWrg Mine Page 3 <br />2010 Phase III Vegetation Study