2012-06-20_PERMIT FILE - C2010089A (22)

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Reclaimed area cover and production will be compared to a standard equal to the mean values measured at the reference area by sampling, as described below. Revegetation will be considered successful if the mean value for the reclaimed site can be demonstrated to equal or exceed Q (Q =90% of the standard). One of the four methods, discussed in Rule 4.15.11(2), will be used to compare mean values at reclaimed sites to Q, depending on the mean values and whether sample adequacy was reached during sampling. In the event that sample adequacy is achieved for both sites, and the sample mean from the reclaimed site exceeds the standard then revegetation success will be determined by direct comparison (Regulation 4.15.11(2)(a)). However, if sample adequacy is not achieved for one or more sites then one of the statistical comparison tests found in Rule 4.15.11(2) will be used to determine the successfulness of the parameter in question. The ultimate revegetation land uses associated with the NHN Mine all involve some type of pasture, either via irrigation or dryland pasture. The landowners within the NHN Mine area have expressed a desire to reclaim their existing lands, even those dominated by native undisturbed species, such as Sagebrush, to Dryland Pasture, since this is a more productive plant community and is more conducive to livestock management. Therefore, WFC requests that the revegetation success standards associated with species diversity be changed to a forage quality diversity standard and that shrub density be waived in lieu of the requested change in land use. The present land use and vegetation types are not critical or unique as wildlife habitat, nor do they possess any significant value as wildlife habitat when one considers the extensive expanse of native vegetation in the immediate New Horizon Mine area and the fact that much of the existing landscape has been converted to agricultural uses. Seed Mix # 8, the proposed Dryland Seed Mixture, contains species that will supply forage earlier in the spring and later in the fall and thus provide higher nutritional value than do nearly all of the native species. Due to the extended growing season of these species and their higher nutritional value, wildlife species, especially Elk and Deer will naturally concentrate in these areas, thus reducing the pressure on undisturbed areas. Dryland Pasture - Liability Period Management Section 2.05.4(2)(e) Page 32 January 2012