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

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woody vegetation all determine the level of reestablished woody plant density and composition during • the liability period. At any rate, the composition differences and densities lower than premine conditions are inevitable (see Revegetation Monitoring Reports for the Seneca II Mme, 1987 to 1993). This subject is discussed further under woody plant density success standards later in this tab. As detailed in the following plan, selected areas will receive supplemental shrub seeding, will have shrubs and trees planted, or will receive mature shrub transplants. These areas will not be extensive, but will be oriented to enhance habitat and vegetative diversity, mitigate the loss of cover in the larger mitring blocks, provide edge in the reclaimed habitat, provide a source of browse for wildlife, and establish areas where woody plants may regenerate or spread. Shrub and tree plantings are arranged to provide travel corridors for wildlife where possible. For adequate livestock performance (lactation, gestation, and daily gains) on rangeland, a balanced forage diet is necessary. The herbaceous component will provide the majority of forage and adequate nutrient quality (digestible protein, energy, phosphorous and carotene) during the grazing season (Cook, et al., 1977). For ranges that are dominated by woody species, the amount and availability of nutritious and palatable herbaceous species is significantly reduced, affecting the forage available to • livestock. The species selected for inclusion in the permanent seed mixes were not only selected for establishment of a predominantly native, diverse, productive, self- sustaining community, but also to diversify dietary intake and meet the nutrient requirements of livestock and wildlife during spring and summer (Cook, et al. 1977). Wildlife can benefit from early green -up of herbaceous species or the standing forage from these species can supplement the diet as an energy source when available in the winter (as evidenced by large elk herds on reclaimed areas of nearby surface mines in winter). Inclusion of forbs and shrubs in reclaimed areas and readily available adjacent undisturbed native vegetation will provide ample opportunities for well- balanced diets for both livestock and wildlife. Availability of lands with palatable herbaceous forage may aid in reducing wildlife impacts to regional agricultural fields, particularly haylands and stackyards. Likewise, livestock will concentrate on the open reclaimed areas reducing pressure on adjacent native habitat. The reclaimed plant communities, with a high composition of herbaceous species, will enhance the forage diversity and habitat for wildlife by increasing the availability of succulent forages. Succulent • forages are high in digestible protein and digestible energy and may remain palatable and nutritious even after they have completed their annual growth (Cook et al., 1977). Also, animal performance is related to the amount of digestible energy and digestible protein in forages. This is especially true for PR -02 3 Revised 01/06