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r-- C\J i:"': . . t_peratures of 99' F and -33' F have been recorded. Average annual c precipitation is l4.25 inches, of which 9.3 inches fall during the irrigation season. Mining is a major source of income in the project area; however, it has fluctuated as a dependable source in years past. Since tl)e 1950's, uranium has been mined on an irregular basis. depending on the supplies on hand at procening mills. Bituminous coal at shallow depths is DOW mined near Nucla for use at Colorado-Ute's steam-electric plant. Pre- liminary studies indicate that adequate coal exists in the area to fuel a SOG-megawatt powerplant, but the depths and exact quantities of coal have not yet been determined. Government emp1 oyment.!.! , agriculture, and tourism are the remain- ing sources of income in the project area. Agriculture is devoted primarily to livestock production, specifically in the prOduction of beef cattle and sheep. Development remains relatively static, however, because of the limited supply of livestock feed resulting from the small amount of irrigation development and limited range resources. The effect of tourism on the project area is minor. Most of the activity centers around a ski area and local attractions at Telluride. The main highway through the project area does not attract many visitors. During the fall, deer and elk hunting seasons probably attract more visitors from outside the area than any other activity. Fishing is also popular at local reservoirs, particularly Miramonte Reservoir on Naturita Creek about 11 air miles southeast of Norwood. The reseroir, with a surface , area of about 420 acres, is operated for fish and wildlife purposes by the State of Colorado. l' Includes Federal, State, and local levels. 6