2022-01-25_REPORT - M1983194 - Laserfiche WebLink

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5.2 Raptor Breeding Activity NS will conduct raptor breeding activity inventories, as necessary, in pinyon-juniper habitats which are affected by well field development. If raptor-nesting activity is jeopardized by well field development, emergency or remedial mitigation will be implemented as directed by the BLM. Raptor survey report findings are considered valid for the current (i.e., first) and second subsequent breeding season in which the nest was reported. 5.2.1 Scope Raptor surveys consistent with the most current BLM White River Field Office (WRFO) (Meeker, CO) raptor nest survey protocols will be conducted prior to construction periods during the nesting season. Depending on construction activities, raptor surveys will be conducted from April to June of each year as necessary. The study area will be comprised of that portion of the well field that will be affected by the next two years of drilling activity plus a minimum of a 300 meter buffer zone around the principal study area. 5.2.2 Objectives Monitoring of raptor breeding activity (emphasizing accipiter hawks) is to identify raptor- breeding areas/nests prior to well field development. If an active nest is located, appropriate WRFO timing stipulations will be applied, and mitigation or modification of drilling activity will be developed prior to disturbance. 5.2.3 Survey Techniques Based on maps of planned well-field development, areas of pinyon/juniper habitat within 300 meters of the edge of projected disturbance will be surveyed. Upon request, the BLM WRFO will assist with identifying areas that may provide the most suitable woodland raptor nesting habitat in the project area. Pedestrian survey line transects will be spaced no more than 50 meters apart and will be oriented to bisect as much potential nesting habitat as possible. Taped raptor calls may also be used to enhance raptor response/sightings. Nesting activity status in the WRFO Resource Area may most reliably be confirmed between May 15 and August 15 of the current breeding season. For all active nests, the final determination of the breeding season status of the nest will be performed by a BLM biologist. 5.3 Mule Deer Habitat Loss Assessment Winter habitat loss for mule deer is considered cumulatively significant, as adjacent winter use areas are occupied and increasingly affected by development. Therefore, NS is required to determine the impacts from the project on mule deer. 5.3.1 Scope All disturbed areas will be mapped and acreage reported in the annual report. Habitat losses will be the basis for formulating habitat enhancement measures deemed appropriate in Daub&Associates, Inc. Page 21 Natural Soda LLC 2022 EMP