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average precipitation,temperature, and wind. The wind information was developed for the West <br /> Elk Mine site which is approximately 7 miles east of the Loadout. <br /> The climate of the region is typical of the Rocky Mountain area. The valley is semi-arid with <br /> annual precipitation averaging about 15 inches per year. The May - September precipitation is 5 <br /> inches for the lowlands and 13 inches for the mountain peaks. Temperature extremes at Paonia <br /> have ranged from -28 °F in January to 100 °F during July and August. The average annual <br /> temperature is approximately 49 'F. Snowfall averages 58 inches per year. <br /> Soils (Rule 2.04.9) <br /> Soil resource information is contained in Section 2.04.9 of the PAP. Exhibit 7 contains more <br /> detailed information on soils as well as soil sample cross sections and analyses, which were <br /> taken from different areas of the site. <br /> The soil samples collected by the applicant indicate a clay loam soil with poor horizontal <br /> development overlying unconsolidated colluvial parent material at an average depth of I I to 13 <br /> inches. <br /> The soil mapping units which are present in the permit area consist of Progresso Loam, which is <br /> found on slopes of 6 to 12 percent, and Torriorthents-Haplargids. Review of the soils analyses <br /> indicates that no problems are expected with use of this soil material during any potential <br /> reclamation activities. <br /> Vegetation (Rule 2.04MO) <br /> Vegetation information is provided in Section 2.04.10 of the PAP. <br /> As the permit area, prior to mining activities, was used for fruit orchards,the dominant <br /> vegetation type was apple and pear trees. In addition, some small areas within the orchards have <br /> been used for production of hay. Virtually all of the permit area, prior to loadout operations, has <br /> been used for agricultural purposes. <br /> Fish and Wildlife (Rule 2.04.11) <br /> Information on fish and wildlife resources is contained in Section 2.04.11 of the PAP. <br /> Mule deer, elk, and black bear are located in the North Fork region in substantial numbers. <br /> Cougar, or mountain lion, have been observed in the area in the past, but their numbers are <br /> limited due to the extended territorial nature of the species. No critical habitats for the three <br /> principal species are found within the area disturbed by the applicant. Wildlife use of the permit <br /> area is largely incidental, and some use of the agricultural land by wildlife does occur, <br /> particularly during winter. Because the loadout facilities are located on an area previously used <br /> for agricultural purposes, no critical habitat is expected to be impacted. <br /> The most common game bird found in the permit and adjacent area is the mourning dove. In <br /> 6 <br />