2025-06-30_PERMIT FILE - C1981019A (7)

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RULE 2 PERMITS South Taylor/Lower Wilson – Rule 2, Page 60 Revision Date: 6/4/25 Revision No.: MR-264  Assess the seasonal distribution of special-interest wildlife species (i.e., big game, raptors, aquatic life, and special-concern species) in the general area, and specifically in potentially disturbed area.  Estimate relative numbers of special-interest wildlife species in the area and estimate relative numbers of small mammals and breeding birds in the potentially disturbed areas. These objectives comply with Rule 2.04.11 of the Divisionregulations, which is the basis for this section. Information Sources The sources of wildlife resource information are provided in Section 2.03.3(7). There is considerable overlap in the geographic extent of resource maps provided by the Consol and Colowyo studies. The extent of Monarch & Associates (i.e. Colowyo) resource studies encompasses an area from the top of the Danforth Hills on the south into the Axial Basin to the north, with Good Springs Creek and Maudlin Gulch forming the east and west boundaries of the study area. The Consol study area is bounded by the Axial Basin and Yampa River to the north and west, the White River Plateau to the east, and White River to the south. Wildlife resource data extends further south into Rio Blanco County than data from Monarch & Associates, whereas, Monarch & Associates resource boundaries extend further to the north and to the west. Using these data sources, wildlife habitat types and special-interest wildlife habitats within the area have been identified and mapped. Special-interest habitats include critical habitats for threatened or endangered species, unique habitats (e.g., number or density of springs, seeps, cliffs, and snags), and seasonally important habitats (e.g., raptor nest sites and big game year-round range and parturition areas). Identification of special-interest habitat types was based on observed animal distributions during given time periods, indirect evidence of relative use (e.g., browse utilization, tracks, and pellets), quantitative and qualitative surveys, and scientific literature. The distribution of all special-interest habitats identified in the area are delineated on Maps 13B and 15B. Information specific to the South Taylor/Lower Wilson permit area was obtained from previous surveys conducted by others and conversations with representatives from the Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW). General Observations The previous studies indicate that several wildlife groups of importance occur in the general project area, including big game, small mammals, raptors, upland game birds, and songbirds. These species use all or portions of eight habitat types that occur within the South Taylor/Lower Wilson permit revision area, as described below.  Mountain shrub  Sagebrush  Aspen woodland  Juniper Scrub  Riparian woodland – Bottomland/ Erosional Feature  Cropland