2014-10-15_GENERAL DOCUMENTS - M1984094

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COLORADO Division of Reclamation, AV Mining and Safety Department of natural Resources 1313 Sherman Street, Room 215 Denver, CO 80203 October 15, 2014 Ann Lukacs 614 Quarry Road Fairplay, CO 80424 RE: Gloria Z Mine; DRMS File No. M-1984-094; Impact of Mining on Mammal Populations Dear Ms. Lukacs, The Division of Reclamation, Mining and Safety(Division) is in receipt of your letter dated October 13, 2014. In your letter, you state you have noticed an increase in wildlife activity near your residence as well as strange animal behavior. Pursuant to Construction Materials Rule 6.4.8, all mining operations must evaluate the impacts to wildlife prior to the Division's issuance of a Reclamation Permit. Specifically, the Division evaluates the general effect during and after the proposed operation on the existing wildlife of the area, including but not limited to temporary and permanent loss of food and habitat, interference with migratory routes and the general effect on the wildlife from increased human activity, including noise. Fluctuations of small mammal populations are driven by a combination of factors whose relative contribution may vary through time and species. For example, an increase in precipitation can trigger significant changes in food availability, which could lead to an increase in rodent populations. Furthermore, an increase is small mammal populations can lead to an increase in predator populations, such as owls and raccoons. The Division appreciates your comments and will take them into consideration. If you have any questions, you may contact me at(303)866-3567 x8116. Sincerely, A Michael A. Cuigham Environmental Protection Specialist of.Coto 1313 Sherman Street, Room 215, Denver, CO 80203 P 303.866.3567 F 303.832.8106 http://mining.state.co.us I John W.Hickenlooper,Governor I Mike King, Executive Director I Virginia Brannon, Director \ 1876 r