2024-11-27_REVISION - M2016081 (3)

Home Browse Search

6.0 Conservation Objectives The West Side Placer project is committed to balancing mineral extraction with responsible land stewardship and the conservation of Greater Sage-Grouse habitat.This section outlines the long-term and short-term conser- vation goals, as well as specific objectives for habitat preservation, ensuring that the project aligns with broader conservation efforts in Moffat County and beyond. 6.1 Long-Term Conservation Goals The long-term conservation goals of the West Side Placer project focus on restoring and maintaining the ecolog- ical integrity of the Sage-Grouse habitat after mining activities have ceased. These goals aim to ensure that the land can continue to support Sage-Grouse populations and other wildlife,while maintaining the joint-use nature of the land for rangeland purposes. • Rehabilitation of Disturbed Lands: The primary long-term goal is to restore all mined areas to a condi- tion that supports the Sage-Grouse and other species native to the sagebrush steppe ecosystem. This will be achieved through reclamation practices that focus on re-establishing sagebrush and other native plant spe- cies, improving habitat quality over time. • Habitat Connectivity: A key objective is to preserve and,where possible, enhance habitat connectivity to en- sure that Sage-Grouse can move freely between lekking,nesting, and wintering grounds. This involves careful planning to avoid creating barriers to movement and maintaining corridors between high-quality habitat areas. • Sustainable Land Use: Post-mining land use will continue to support joint rangeland and wildlife habitat management. By ensuring that the land remains viable for both grazing and wildlife,the project contributes to the long-term sustainability of the landscape and the livelihoods of ranchers and sheep herders in the area. 15 HARDROCK/METAL MINING REGULAR(112)APPLICATION Au Pt Industries LLC I PO Box 1424-Edwards,Colorado 81632 1970 306 1 784