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Spring and Summer: In lower-quality sagebrush areas,like those within the mining zones,the plants are smaller <br /> (12 inches on average), and these areas are less likely to support breeding and nesting activities, making them less <br /> critical for the birds during their reproductive season. <br /> 3.2 Importance of Sage-Grouse Conservation <br /> Conserving the Greater Sage-Grouse remains a high priority for land managers and conservationists. The West <br /> Side Placer project is committed to balancing mineral extraction with wildlife protection, implementing habitat <br /> avoidance and management strategies. <br /> Ecological Importance <br /> The Sage-Grouse serves as an "umbrella species"for the sagebrush ecosystem,with its protection extending <br /> benefits to many other species that depend on healthy sagebrush environments. By focusing mining activities in <br /> lower-quality habitat, such as the areas where the sagebrush averages 12 inches in height, and by avoiding key <br /> areas like Dry Gulch and Scandinavian Gulch,the project minimizes its ecological footprint. <br /> Mining Considerations and Habitat Preservation <br /> The West Side Placer project recognizes the economic and environmental importance of preserving Sage-Grouse <br /> habitat. By avoiding high-quality areas,the project ensures compliance with wildlife protection standards, re- <br /> ducing potential conflicts with regulatory authorities and supporting a sustainable coexistence between mining <br /> operations and conservation efforts. <br /> 9 <br /> HARDROCK/METAL MINING REGULAR(112)APPLICATION Au Pt Industries LLC I PO Box 1424-Edwards,Colorado 81632 1970 306 1 784 <br />