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Fish Resources There are no fish resources within the permit azea. The closest segment of the river is approximately 900' from any activities which will take place in the permit azea. The water dischazged from the pit will be cazefully regulated by the NPDES permit, which is administered by the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment. General Effects of the Operation on the Existing Wildlife of the Area Gravel extraction and screening activities will no doubt create some disturbance to animals neaz the site. However, resident wildlife will generally become habituated to these activities. Migrating animals will probably avoid the site, but the proposed pit does not block any known migratory routes, and wildlife should be able to move through the azea unimpeded. Due to the possibility for animaUvehicle collisions, hauling activities will probably pose the biggest threat to wildlife. Haul trucks will keep to posted speeds and drivers need to remain aware of the potential for collisions. Since this pit may reduce gravel truck traffic supplying the Piceance Basin from Meeker, this pit may actually reduce this concern. A wetland fringe will be established along the lake edges which should improve waterfowl use after reclamation. The CDOW has classified the undisturbed azea azound the operation as winter range for elk and mule deer. Since the amount of disturbed azea is limited to 42.8 acres, and since mining and reclamation will be terminated within 3.5 to 4.0 years (based on market demand), it cannot be considered a significant wildlife impact. Also, the reclamation plan will create a shallow lake of about 25.9 acres in size with wetlands along the entire shoreline. Ultimately, the net effect of the operation will be to improve wildlife habitat, at least for birds and waterfowl. Deer and elk will lose some winter range due to the loss of irrigated pasture. White River City Pit December 06 H-7