WSP06290

• File Number: 8277.600.10
• Description: Big Sandy River Unit - Colorado River Salinity Control Program
• State: WY
• Basin: Colorado Mainstem
• Date: 5/1/1986
• Title: U.S.D.A. Selected Plan - Big Sandy River
• Water Supply Pro - Doc Type: Definite Plan Report

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The project area is part of the Pacific Flyway. Important habitat
for ducks consists of nesting, brood rearing, and resting areas used
during the spring, summer, and fall. These include flowing waters such
as Pacific and Jack Morrow Creeks, the Little Sandy and Big Sandy
Rivers, stock ponds, reservoirs, and irrigation induced wetlands in the
project area. Figure 2-3 "Wetland Map" shows the location, types, and
size of wetlands in the project area. Table 2-3 shows the wetland
inventory by type and water source.

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Population estimates are sketchy. Most ducks do not reside in the
project area yearlong since the winters are cold enough to freeze
flowing waters as well as standing waters. Commonly observed ducks in
the project area include mallard, pintail, shoveler, American widgeon,
gadwall, teal, ringnecked duck, and redhead. The Canadian goose is also
commonly seen in the project area.

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Numerous species of nongame birds, mammals, reptiles, amphibians,
and invertebrates occur in the watershed; many of which are yearlong
residents. Information regarding abundance, distribution, and status is
generally lacking. The greatest variety of species occurs in and near
the irrigated lands.

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Sightings of black-footed ferret, an endangered species, have been
reported in the area; however, no confirmed sightings have been made in
more than 10 years. The bald eagle migrates through the area. A
whooping crane, with it surroage sandhill crane parents, has been
sighted in the area during spring migration.

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