2013-04-15_PERMIT FILE - C1994082 (6)

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Reference Areas. This standard uses the Motyka similarity index to assess resemblance of the distribution of species density by lifeform for reclamation vegetation to that of the Reference Areas. Because the average internal resemblance (i.e. between- sample similarity) of Reference Area species density data is often in the range of 75 %, this is the proposed Yoast Mine species density standard. Where: IS.. o = 2c / (a + b) c = the sum of the smaller of the paired species density values (for each life form) for reclaimed and Reference Areas* a = total of species density values for lifeforms of the reclaimed areas b = total of species density for the lifeforms of the Reference Areas* * Weighted average lifeform species density using the Yoast Reference Areas (weighted as specified under Cover above). Only species density by vascular herbaceous plants will be included. Lifeforms to be used include: . Annual /biennial forbs Perennial warn season grasses Annual grasses Subshrubs Perennial forbs Shrubs Perennial cool season grasses Trees If the calculated index of similarity by lifeform equals or exceeds 90 percent of the standard (0.9 x 75% = 67.5 0/o), then Alternative Test C has been passed. • ALTERNATIVE TEST D. Assessment of the Presence of Native Species Finally, the assessment of the species diversity of reclaimed lands needs to make reference to the presence in reclaimed areas of native western North American plant species. Alternative Test D is conducted as a direct test of the presence of native species in the reclaimed area as reflected in the cumulative presence of reclaimed area native species within the (usually 10 to 20) 2 in x 50 in plots associated with the species density determination that accompanies cover sampling (see above). The comparison of this cumulative list of species found at the cover sample locations would be compared to the area weighted mean native species density (standard deviation also based RN -03 44 Revised 10/10