2013-04-18_REPORT - C1994082 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Note that this test addresses total species density, not just native species density (see Test D) below). Noxious weeds are omitted. The point of addressing total species density, including annual / biennial species and introduced species, is that the total species density is arguably a strong indication of the existence of niche spaces that could eventually be occupied by the native forb and woody plant species typical of the pre- mining plant communities. The final step for the Test B assessment is a straight comparison of the mean total species density of the reclaimed area to the reference area - derived standard number (above). If the reclaimed area mean exceeds the standard, the Test B is passed. Alternative Test C): Species Density Distribution Assessment Among Lifeforms This test relates to the distribution of species presence among the various lifeforms in comparison to the reference areas. This standard uses the Motyka similarity index to assess the resemblance of species density distribution by lifeform of the reclamation vegetation to that of the reference areas. Because the average internal resemblance (i.e. between - sample similarity) of applicable reference areas for species density data is often in the range of 70 %, the standard is 63% (0.9 x 70 %). (The assessment of internal similarity was performed on data from the extended reference areas.) The Motyka similarity index is used as follows: ISmo = 2c (a + b) Where: c = the smaller of the paired species density values (for each lifeform) of the reclaimed and reference areas* a = total of species density values for lifeforms of the reclaimed areas b = total of species density values for the lifeforms of the reference area* * Weighted average lifeform species density using the Yoast Reference Areas (weighted based on 24.4% original extent of Aspen, 48.9% original extent of Mountain Brush, 24% original extent of Sagebrush and 2.7% original extent of Steep Mountain Brush). 9