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~ r- co r.) ( eo;.. of a wildlife movement corridor between the Tucson Mountains and areas to the west is also being considered to offset residual migration disruptions due to an open canal, Wildlife OrowninQs Closely related to migration disruptions are wi ldl He drownings in open canals. Animals attempting to cross or drink from a canal may fall into the canal and not be able to get out. Presently, the only effective means of preventing drowning losses is to prevent animals from entering the canal. Fencing of the canal sections with animal exclusionary fencing is being planned and will be part of the mitigation plan where necessary. To remove the i ncent i ve to dri nk from the open cana 1 s, wateri ng sites away from the canal are being planned and will also be part of the mitigation plan where shown to be necessary and effective. The Bureau is also evaluating the effectiveness of large mammal escape devices for canals. If effective, consideration will be given to using such devices along appropriate portions of the aqueduct. Special Status Species The Gi la monster and desert tortoise are two species that the State of Arizona Game and Fish Commission have identified as threatened and unique in Arizona. The U.S. Forest Service has identified the kit fax as unique, These three species may be affected by the plans under consideration. Areas of potential impact to the desert tortoise occur in the paloverde- mixed cactus vegetation west of the Tucson Mountains and near Black Moun- tain on the San Xavier Indian Reservation. Impacts to Gila monsters could be expected in the desert grassland vegetation areas, especially on the San Xavier Indian Reservation. Kit fox are found in Avra Valley and on the San Xavier Indian Reservation. Mitigation for the desert tortoise and Gila IIlOnster where open canal is used consists of a barrier to prevent these animals from entering the canal. Mitigation for kit fox has not as yet 8