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,~ <br /> <br />l <br />The effects of simultaneous mine operations in '+cClane Canyon <br />and 'lunger Canyon on wintering deer or other wildlife cannot <br />be accurately predicted. Procedures outlined in the Protective <br />Measures, Resource 'lonitoring and Reclamation sections of both <br />application wildlife plans, reflect basically sound principles <br />and goals. We believe that close coordination with the Division ~ .. <br />of Wildlife, the Bureau of Land tlanagement and the Fish and Idildllfe <br />Service will aid in implementation of adequate wildlife programs <br />and will help minimize chances for unexpected conflicts. Specifi- <br />cally, we would like to recommend: <br />That contingency options for habitat mitigation or en- <br />hancement be developed in cooperation with the O(1W and <br />BLM in the event that wildlife impacts result or are <br />greater than anticipated. <br />2. That impact monitoring efforts be coordinated through <br />DOW to insure comparability with existing procedures. <br />That future raptor surveys be reviewed for adequacy by <br />DOW and FWS. 1Je would be willing to assist in ~levelop- <br />ment.of a raptor survey program. <br />Vle would like to make one final observation. In reviewing the <br />'lunger Canyon and '+cClane Canyon mine plans, we have noted very <br />little discussion of their plans for coal transportation. It <br />appears that Sheridan Enterprises consideration for wildlife <br />impacts ends at the mine permit boundary. 1Je are, indeed, very <br />concerned about coal haulage impacts to wildlife. Vle are particular- <br />ly troubled by Sheridan Enterprises' failure to clarify their <br />intentions in regard to a rail transport system (s?e attached <br />June 18, 1981 memo to BLt1). The fact that they are even considering <br />this option could be extracted from only one casual statement <br />in the wildlife portion of the `icClane Canyon permit application. <br />lJhile we believe that a rail system may, in the long run, be <br />a desirable means of coal transportation, construction of a rail <br />corridor opens many more questions about impacts to wildlife. <br />Important riparian areas that are occupied by high federal interest <br />birds may be potentially threatened. - <br />If you have any questions on these comments, please feel free <br />to give me a call. <br />Sincer?ly, <br />~~ <br />Ronel Finley <br />cc: Bill Clark, DDV1, rrand Junction, C~ <br />Doug McUean, BLt1, brand ,)unction, CO <br />Tom Lytle, DOW, ;rand Junction, f.0 <br /> <br />