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OD2231 CHAPTER II RESOURCES AND USES . Other Resources Major resources of the region include extensive mineral deposits and large areas covered by stands of merchantable timber. The search for and mining of mineral resources has had an impor- tant part in the history and economic development of the general region. Mining of metallic ores from the mineralized areas of the San Juan Mountains created a boom during the early settlement period and resulted in many short-lived enterprises and communities whose remnants are interesting and legendary. Several mines continue to operate near Ouray and changing economic conditions could further revive the mining activities. Uranium exploration and mining created a flurry of activity during the 1950s and 1960s in portions of the Gunnison River Basin but mostly in areas to the west of the basin. Mining and milling of uranium and vanadium ores continue in those areas. Mining of extensive coal deposits along or near the North Fork of the Gunnison River has fluctuated considerably since the initial settlement period and is currently accelerating with most of the pro- duction being transported to Utah, California and oversea markets. Presently undeveloped coal deposits are located along Cimarron Ridge generally south of the Uncompahgre Project land area. . Harvesting of timber in National Forests surrounding the Uncom- pahgre Project lands is currently geared primarily to assist in supplying local needs. Timber resources are quite extensive and timber harvest is potentially much greater than the current rate. Environmental Considerations The region is generally considered pleasant and attractive by most visitors who are usually most impressed by the scenic and spec- tacular canyons and mountains. Fishing, hunting, winter sports, and viewing of the remnants of past mining activities are special attrac- tions for many of the visitors. Portions of the mountainous areas are traversed by highways and others roads and also include a few operating railroad lines as well as abandoned railroad grades. Numerous mine tailing piles, buildings and other operating "and unused mining and milling facilities are located near the entrances to active and inactive mines in the mineralized areas. Many of the scars created by past mining, lumbering, and railroad oper- ations are re-vegetated and bleDd into the natural landscape and others offer visible evidence of history. . Most of the valleys include irrigated farms and towns that provide services for the basic agricultural, mining, recreational and tourist industries. Except for processing of local products, there is little manufacturing or other heavy industries in the region. Air pollution problems are minor and mostly related to burning of fossil fuels and waste products from lumber milling operations. ~