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" Environmental Consequences/Mitigation: In order to be in compliance with the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, requiring that BLM avoid actions that "take" migratory birds, it is recommended that vegetation disturbance be avoided from April 15 thru July 15. This would be especially critical along the Arkansas River in the narrow band of riparian forest. This is the breeding and brood rearing season for most Colorado migratory birds. Three species might occur in the area are on the US Fish and Wildlife Services "Birds of Conservation Concern-2002 List for BCR-16 (Southern Rockies). These species are prairie falcon, golden eagle and Lewis' woodpecker. There is no nesting habitat for prairie falcons in the vicinity of the river as suitable cliffs are not present. The same is true for golden eagle. Lewis' woodpecker would be expected to occupy the project area. Impacts to any bird species from this project could occur if vegetation along the river is removed or disturbed. NATIVE AMERICAN RELIGIOUS CONCERNS Affected Environment: None Environmental Consequences/Mitigation: No possible traditional cultural properties were located during the cultural resources inventory (see above). There is no other known evidence that suggests the project area holds special significance for Native Americans. THREATENED, ENDANGERED, AND SENSITIVE SPECIES (includes a fmding on Standard 4) Affected Environment: Only two species might be found in the project area. The bald eagle (Threatened) is known to frequent the Arkansas River, primarily during the winter months. Bald eagles feed on waterfowl and fish that would be found along the river system. Bald eagles have been documented between Salida and Buena Vista using large cottonwood riparian areas that are relatively free of human impacts. Peregrine falcons are a BLM sensitive species and nest in large cliff complexes. Peregrines would not be expected to nest in the project area due to the lack of cliffs but could be using the area for foraging. Environmental Consequences/Mitigation: Impacts to bald eagles and peregrine falcons would be extremely rare as the project area is small and no major alterations to streamside habitat is expected. Work would be limited to instream structures to improve boating suitability. Finding on the Public Land Health Standard for Threatened & Endangered species: The project would not impact or change public land health standards for Threatened and Endangered Species. WASTES, HAZARDOUS OR SOLID Affected Environment: The area does not have a history of dumping on public lands. Environmental Consequences/Mitigation: None of the considered alternatives will result in the use, storage, or disposal of hazardous or regulated wastes on public lands. No specific mitigation is necessary.