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in relative cover, a new requirement for the presence of two different species in each lifeform category <br />has been added. <br />Woody Plant Density <br />No changes are being requested to the 800 live shrubs per acre standard. <br />Sampling Methodology <br />Snowcap intends to implement Cedar Creek's recommendations regarding the sampling design and <br />procedure for the final bond release evaluation starting in 2011. These procedures are identical to those <br />described in previous monitoring reports and technical revisions submitted to CDRMS excepting the <br />sample layout will be modified to simplify the overall sampling process as well as provide a "de- facto" <br />weighting process. Instead of systematically sampling each reclaimed unit separately as has occurred <br />during the monitoring process, all areas to be compared to the Greasewood Reference Area (six units) <br />will be treated as a single combined unit and systematically sampled accordingly. The same procedure <br />will be utilized for all areas to be compared with the Shadscale Reference Area (11 units). To maximize <br />the probability of representation from the smaller units as well as to address the extreme variation (due <br />to the influence of cheatgrass and shrub domination), an elevated number of samples will be <br />systematically collected from each of the two combined reclaimed units. This will also provide <br />proportional distribution across all reclaimed areas thereby providing a "weighted" representation as well <br />as a better capture of variation. It is anticipated that approximately 100 samples will be required from <br />each of the two "combined" units to facilitate representation from the smaller reclaimed areas. A <br />systematic sample grid (e.g. 200' x 200D will be placed over maps of all combined units, and grid <br />intersections will define (as necessary for adequacy or representation) a sample point for cover, <br />production, and /or woody plant density. Sampling of the reference areas will be identical to procedures <br />used for previous years whereby a minimum of 20 sample points will be systematically established (with <br />a random start). Sample adequacy will be determined in the field (wet weights to be used for <br />production) and if necessary, additional sample points will be placed utilizing a secondary "inner grid ". <br />TR -60 A14 -11 -4 (New 01/11) <br />