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associated activities. However, since approximately half of the area to be dis- <br /> turbed is mountain shrub vegetative type (not prime sage grouse habitat) only <br /> minor impacts are expected for these species. Sagebrush (Artemisia tridentata) <br /> is abundant in adjacent areas and will volunteer back quickly on reclaimed areas <br /> from seed and roots in the replaced topsoil (Section 3.6) . <br /> Sharp-tailed Grouse <br /> Sharp-tailed Grouse (Pedioecetes phasianellus) population levels are low within <br /> the proposed mine plan area with no known active strutting grounds (Section 2.4) . <br /> This species will suffer a temporary loss of habitat due to mining activities. <br /> The loss of food and cover will force these birds to adjacent areas where suita- <br /> ble habitat exists. However, revegetation with native species in combination <br /> with shrub transplants are expected to promote reestablishment of premine popula- <br /> tions within the mine plan area. Rogers (1969) described sharp-tailed grouse <br /> habitat as areas where grass is dominant or sub-dominant with light interspersion <br /> of shrubs, wheat and trees. Islands of mature shrub transplants surrounded by <br /> areas of grasses and forbs will be produced during the first few years of revege- <br /> tation. In essence, more suitable habitat will be ititially established for <br /> sharp-tailed goruse than is presently located within the mine plan area. <br /> Mourning Dove <br /> Mining will most likely have a positive effect on the mourning dove (Zenaidura <br /> macroura) population. Dove populations are expected to increase due to the addi- <br /> tion of stockwater impoundments and sediment control structures (Sanderson, <br /> 1977) . Increased water in addition to islands of shrub transplants for nesting <br /> purposes will enhance the mourning dove population. <br /> 4-159 <br /> REVISED FEB 13 '87 <br />