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3.0 Background Information <br /> The West Side Placer project operates within a region of mixed sagebrush quality,which overlaps with the habitat <br /> of the Greater Sage-Grouse. Specific measures will be taken to avoid disturbing high-quality sagebrush areas, <br /> while mining will occur in areas where the sagebrush is of lower ecological value.This section details the biolog- <br /> ical and ecological significance of the Sage-Grouse,the importance of its conservation, and how the project will <br /> minimize its impact on critical habitat. <br /> 3.1 Biological and Ecological Profile of Sage-Grouse <br /> The Greater Sage-Grouse (Centrocercus urophasianus) is a species closely associated with sagebrush ecosystems. <br /> The species is reliant on various stages of sagebrush habitat for breeding, nesting, and winter survival. <br /> Habitat Requirements <br /> While the West Side Placer project is located within Sage-Grouse habitat, high-quality sagebrush will be avoided. <br /> Specifically: Dry Gulch (east of the project) contains high-quality sagebrush, and these areas will be completely <br /> avoided to minimize habitat disturbance. <br /> The areas designated for mining contain sagebrush of lower quality,with an average height of 12 inches.This <br /> sagebrush is considered less suitable for Sage-Grouse nesting and other critical behaviors,thus posing a lower <br /> risk to the species. <br /> This strategic avoidance aligns with the biological needs of Sage-Grouse, ensuring that key areas for lekking, <br /> nesting, and wintering are preserved,while low-quality habitats with minimal use by the species are impacted by <br /> mining operations. <br /> Diet and Seasonal Behavior <br /> The diet and seasonal behavior of Sage-Grouse are closely tied to the quality and availability of sagebrush: <br /> Winter: During winter months, Sage-Grouse rely heavily on sagebrush for sustenance,with taller, more estab- <br /> lished sagebrush offering both food and protection. By avoiding areas with high-quality sagebrush,West Side <br /> Placer reduces the potential disruption to wintering birds. <br /> s <br /> HARDROCK/METAL MINING REGULAR(112)APPLICATION Au Pt Industries LLC I PO Box 1424-Edwards,Colorado 81632 1970 306 1 784 <br />