2016-04-15_PERMIT FILE - M2016010 (6)

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More than 100 species of birds have been documented on property adjacent to the proposed quarry site, and the stream corridors are also known to be important movement areas for wide- ranging mammals such as mountain lions, black bear, mule deer, and elk. The proposed mining -plan does not appear to provide an adequate buffer to protect the use of intermittent stream corridors by these sensitive species. The Nature Conservancy holds a 99 year conservation lease with the SLB to manage Aiken Canyon Preserve for conservation values. This preserve is adjacent to the proposed lease area (just to the south), including the mine site. Potential mine activity impacts include noise, dust, and direct impacts to wildlife and plant communities. As such, it may impact our ability to conserve and manage the resources identified on Aiken Canyon Preserve in accordance with the terms of our lease. The conservation values at Aiken Canyon Preserve are the same as listed above on the proposed mining site and are the basis of our 99 year conservation lease. While we have not had the opportunity to view the proposed site in person or assess the restoration plans with the specifics of the site in mind, we also have some concerns that Transit Mix Concrete's proposed restoration plans may not be sufficient to protect and reclaim the existing plant communities and conservation values on the property. Some of the conservation values present on Aiken Canyon Preserve and the proposed mine site are considered irreplaceable by The Nature Conservancy and the Colorado Natural Heritage Program. They therefore merit the highest standards of inventory and protection. Impacts to these conservation values should be avoided. Impacts to other values may be minimized to an acceptable level through the implementation of best management practices. For example, riparian areas should have a set back from mining activities to minimize any impacts to these important wildlife corridors. The Nature Conservancy is interested in engaging with the CDMRS and the mine applicant to share information,recommend ways to avoid impacting the conservation values, and inform best practices. Please don't hesitate to contact me with questions about the above information or to arrange additional dialogue. I can be reached at ejessup&tnc.org or 720-974-7070. Thank you for your time and attention to this matter. Respectfully, 4:;;?/ (�l Edyn essup Land Assets Manager