1999-01-09_PERMIT FILE - M2002004

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Memo to PCPC Re: SUP No. 1999-002 June 9, 1999 Page 10 describes Life Zones as being separated by elevation changes which result in different climates, topography, geological conditions, and other physical constraints. As an example, a species requiring cooler, more densely vegetated areas would be restricted in Pueblo County to Zones B, C, D, and E, or to the watercourse areas of Zone A. However, critical or significant habitats could be found in any of the Zones. These habitats relate to the presence of a wildlife species identified as being endangered, threatened, or listed as a Select Species within Pueblo County. The applicant submitted a Vegetation and Wildlife Study Addendum prepared by Spectra Environmental Inc, dated October 1, 1998, with their original application materials. The Wildlife Study states that "there are 26 species on Colorado's Threatened and Endangered Species List—six mammals, eleven birds, two amphibians, and seven species of fish. Evidence of the following Threatened or Endangered Wildlife in Colorado was NOT found: Birds: Bald Eagle, Whooping Crane, greater prairie chicken, lesser prairie chicken, plains sharp-tailed grouse, greater sandhill crane, piping plover, least tern, Mexican Spotted Owl, or Peregrine Falcon; Mammals: Bison, River Otter, Lynx, Grizzly Bear, Wolverine, Black-Footed Ferret, or Grey Wolf; Fish: Colorado Squawfish, Humpback Chub, Bonytail Chub, Razorback Sucker, Greenback Cutthroat Trout, or Arkansas River Darter; Amphibians: Western Toad or the Wood Frog." The Study concludes "There are no endangered species of vegetation or wildlife currently found on the proposed site. The construction and operation of the facility poses no dangers to wetlands in the area." The Division of Wildlife comments, dated 3/11/99, are attached as Exhibit 6. The Division expresses serious concerns over the development of short grass prairie ecosystems in Pueblo County. Impacts to this habitat can have great cumulative effects to the surrounding areas. Due to the fact that this project is still in the proposal stages, the Division would like the opportunity to further comment on this project as it develops. The DOW would be happy to provide positive input in the process or procedures involving reclamation of the mining areas.