2014-06-20_REVISION - M1981207 (10)

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Blue Pit 112 Permit Amendment These cumulative changes will likely decrease suitability of remaining habitat for most species, though prolific, adaptable species such as cottontail rabbits, red fox and a number of songbird species may persist or even increase in abundance. Potential effects and opportunities posed by the project for the key species identified in Section 5 are discussed below. Mule Deer and Elk: Since both mule deer and elk make primary use of the Property during winter months, and since winter habitat has been identified as the critical component for herd sustainability in much of the State, the proposed development will likely have some minor negative effects to both species. However, since the existing habitat consists of irrigated hayfields, the Property is of limited value as winter range for these species in any event. Mitigation measures that promote an increase the shrub and tree components of the undeveloped vegetative community and create additional cover and feed resources (which would be available above snowpack in severe winters) would be of great benefit to mule deer, though less so for elk. The critical parameter in this instance will be to limit vegetation removal in all phases to minimize disturbance at any point in time and to reclaim disturbed areas with a variety of grass and forb species as quickly as possible after mining activities cease. Bald Eagle: The absence of tall snags and mature tree species on the Property, its distance from the Roaring Fork River, existing urban development north of the site, and the plethora of superior habitat along the river corridor itself all significantly limit the suitability of this site for Bald eagles. Further, available habitat for key prey species on which eagles depend is also limited on the Property. The proposed mining operation is very unlikely to negatively affect bald eagles in any way. Potential Mitigation Measures Since much of the open space and currently available habitat on the Property will be impacted during mining operations, those areas that remain undisturbed or which can be reclaimed will become increasingly important. The chiefpost- mining objective is to reclaim as much of the site as possible to agricultural production matching the current condition now found on the Property. There may also be an opportunity to develop multiple habitat parameters in the area, creating diversity and microclimates suitable for a broad variety of plant species that serve as both forage and security cover as well as travel corridors connecting fragmented habitats. Protection First and foremost will be protecting those areas during construction activities to minimize loss of vegetation and minimize soil erosion potential while adjacent areas are being developed. Soil disturbance during construction invites noxious Blue Pit May 2014 H -5