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RULE 2 PERMITS <br /> '@°tbab' W" 1Y� fi1Fi _ 3��h YW <:a'nW iNW� D Yog' irY�' Ht'. <br /> consumers)by nature, 2)there is abundant, high quality grass on the reclaimed areas especially in <br /> comparison to surrounding country which exhibits very little if any grassland acreage and <br /> relatively low grass production in shrublands, and 3) elk have learned that harassments (such as <br /> hunting) are minimized on mining areas (refuge effect) which allows them to forage in relative <br /> peace. Likewise, mule deer populations have been observed on reclaimed grasslands at elevated <br /> densities(40-60 animals on a daily basis during the Spring, Summer, and Fall periods). Similarly, <br /> 15-20 pronghorn utilize the reclamation on a daily basis during the Spring and early Summer <br /> periods. <br /> Following the winter,it has been observed in early spring that forage utilization on the reclamation <br /> often ranges between 70 and 90 percent, especially near water sources. In fact, utilization is often <br /> so elevated that both elk and mule deer turn to the few unfenced shrubs that have been established <br /> about the reclaimed area and cause extensive hedging damage. Over the years it has been observed <br /> that such hedging eventually leads to the death of most of these over-utilized shrubs. <br /> Because of the dependence on these areas, and the shrub populations, efforts by Colowyo (as <br /> indicated in the previous portions of Section 2.05) have continued to improve reclamation <br /> techniques. As discussed in this revision,new and significant strides are being taken to re-establish <br /> sagebrush steppe communities as well as grassland areas. Many of these new measures will benefit <br /> not only the large game animal segment of the wildlife community, but also other components <br /> such as sage grouse and sharp-tailed grouse populations that are dependent on sagebrush and other <br /> woody species for forage and cover. <br /> Impacts of Mining Operations on Wildlife Resources Within the Mine Plan Area <br /> Several short term negative impacts to wildlife are to be expected in the permit area. Removal of <br /> vegetation communities and habitats will be the most direct impact, resulting in a reduction of <br /> forage and cover. Non-mobile species will be destroyed in localized areas as vegetation and topsoil <br /> are removed. Mobile species will be temporarily displaced until mined areas are reclaimed. As <br /> the mine progresses, some changes in topography will occur through the removing of vegetation, <br /> rock outcroppings, draws, etc. which form natural shelters. <br /> Disturbance of soils will affect soil profiles, micro-climate, and other soil properties. <br /> The backfilling and grading as required in Section 4.14.2 will assure that topographic features and <br /> drainage patterns will be returned to approximate original contour. <br /> Wildlife species inhabiting the permit area that have the most potential for being affected include <br /> deer,elk,sage grouse,and raptors. However,experience to date has shown that all of these species <br /> have adapted to the presence of the Colowyo operation, resulting in minimal direct impact. Most <br /> of the mitigation measures, protection measures, and habitat improvement techniques are directed <br /> toward this wildlife group. <br /> Range and Wildlife Management Programs <br /> Data collected during pre-mine studies during 1974 - 19Th indicated overuse by cattle, deer, and <br /> Rule 2 Permits 2.05-42 Revision Date: 12/20/19 <br /> Revision No.: TR-135 <br />