2020-03-10_REVISION - M1998013 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Corp of Engineers for permitting as these wetlands may be jurisdictional waters of the US. If wetland mitigation is to occur due to loss of wetlands on this site, CPW recommends that mitigation take place locally along the St. Vrain River corridor. Cottonwood trees are important features along the St. Vrain River for wildlife. If any cottonwood trees are to be removed, CPW recommends that they be replaced on a 3 to 1 basis to help rebuild and enhance the cottonwood forest riparian corridor. These riparian corridors are not only of high value habitat for cover and nesting wildlife, but they also serve as movement corridors for these animals across the landscape. By keeping these riparian corridors intact, not only does it provide habitat for wildlife but it also helps mitigate conflicts between wildlife and people. Fragmented landscapes often push wildlife into urban areas where they come in conflict with people. Riparian corridors provide habitat and movement corridors that help mitigate conflicts with people. The presence of a cottonwoods and other mature trees on the property provides nesting habitat for various species of raptors and other birds. Raptors which include hawks, owls, and eagles are protected under the Federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act and the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act. Colorado Parks and Wildlife has developed a set of recommended setbacks away from these nests to prevent disturbance during the nesting season. Those recommended buffer zones can be found at: https://cpw.state.co.us/Documents/Wi ld lifeSpecies/Livi noWithWi ld life/RaptorBuffer Guideli nes2008.pdf#search=raptor%20o,uideli nes The application states that Savage and Savage environmental firm conducted a survey for nests in August of 2019 and found no nests at that time. If earthwork or other construction activities begin between January 1 and July 31 st, the property should be surveyed again for any potential new nests that may appear. If a nest is found, please contact the CPW District Wildlife Manager for recommendations on mitigating impacts to the nesting bird. Thank you again for the opportunity to comment on this gravel mine operation. Please do not hesitate contacting CPW for recommendations on ways to enhance this project site after the mining has been completed to maximize benefits to wildlife in the area. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact District Wildlife Manager Chris Mettenbrink at (303) 906-1979 or Chris.MettenbrinkCstate.co.us. Sincerely, Jason Duetsch Area Wildlife Manager