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4. While development of this private inholding is not likely in the near term, its proximity to <br />other high value developed properties within the Gunnison to Crested Butte corridor would <br />suggest that the potential for subdivision and development exists. Should that occur <br />experience suggests that property boundary issues may arise and resource values associated <br />with NFS lands are likely to diminish. <br />5. FSR 743 crosses NFP #2 and provides access to a significant amount of national forest as <br />well as a private subdivision to the north. Currently, there is no deeded easement on this <br />road across the private land. Acquisition of NFP #2 will secure future access and <br />potentially lead to agreements with Gunnison County regarding road maintenance, use and <br />jurisdiction. <br />6. I am convinced that the 0.99 acres of fens (a groundwater dependent wetland ecosystem) <br />that will be transferred out of federal ownership will not be at risk to a loss of function. <br />These fens have existed prior to and through -out the life of the mine and subsequent <br />reclamation efforts. There is no indication that there will be any changes in land use or <br />activities which would jeopardize the continued existence of this resource. I do not believe <br />a deed reservation or restriction which would address the fens is necessary. The exchange <br />will result in a net increase in wetlands within the federal estate of 2.03 acres, as the lands <br />to be acquired contain 3.02 acres of fluvial wetlands. <br />7. The biological assessment has concluded that the transfer of FP to Homestake Mining <br />Company of California will not affect Canada lynx habitat or populations because no land <br />use change will occur. In fact the land exchange will result in an increase of high quality <br />lynx habitat on NFS lands. <br />8. Site visits and record searches for the non- federal parcel have been conducted and no <br />recognized environmental hazards were found. I am convinced that these lands will not <br />present any future hazard to the public or liability to the agency once acquired. <br />9. ' Overall, the administrative obligations of the Forest Service will be reduced through this <br />exchange. There will be a reduction in length of property boundary to be managed and the <br />administration of mining operations, which includes structures, will be eliminated. <br />10. The unoccupied utility easement held by Gunnison Electric Cooperative Association <br />(GECA) for a non - specific location within the NFP will not create significant <br />environmental impact nor be administratively burdensome should it ever be developed. In <br />my estimation development is unlikely in the reasonably foreseeable future. However, <br />should GECA wish to cross the property with a utility line it will in all likelihood be buried <br />in the shoulder of FSR 743. <br />PUBLIC INTEREST DETERMINATION <br />After reviewing the EA and public comment received during the NEPA process, I am convinced <br />that the Fossil Ridge I Land Exchange is in the public interest. Per the requirements of 36 CFR <br />254.3(b)(2)(i), in my opinion, the resource values and public objectives served by acquisition of the <br />NFP far exceed those of the NFS lands that are to be conveyed. This exchange will result in <br />Fossil Ridge I Land Exchange Decision Notice and FONSI 7 <br />