Laserfiche WebLink
<br />Section 816.112(d) Continued. <br />Rule 2.05.4 (2)(e) <br />Revised 11/4/80 <br />native species, the proposed introduced species have a longer life <br />span, are able to reproduce more efficiently, and are better able <br />to provide permanent vegetation. Consequently, through the use of <br />the proposed introduced species, Kerr Coal will create a growing <br />environment for the native species which is more stable and condu- <br />cive to growth due to the enhanced erosion resistance of the intro- <br />duced species. <br />• <br />• <br />Compatibility with Plant and Animal Species of the Region. All <br />proposed introduced species are currently encountered in North Park <br />according to a computer search run on the Plant Information Network <br />of Colorado State University. In this regard, the nutritional <br />.~ <br />value of the proposed introduced species and their compatibility <br />with livestock and wildlife are well documented.•- Specifically, <br />mule deer and elk preferences for intermediate wheatgrass, desert <br />wheatgrass and timothy are documented by Kufeld, et al. (1973). In <br />addition, livestock forage preference for the proposed introduced <br />species has been documented by Marquis, et al. (1974). Palatabil- <br />ity ratings reported by Marquiss, in the order of descending pre- <br />ference, were: intermediate wheatgrass, pubescent wheatgrass, <br />desert wheatgrass, western wheatgrass and beardless wheatgrass. <br />These results confirmed the findings of Gomm (1969) in a study <br />spanning almost 30 years in which Gomm documents the livestock <br />preferences for all the introduced species proposed in the Kerr <br />Mine Area rangeland mlxture. Significantly, Gomm concluded his <br />studies with the following statement: "Generally, the introduced <br />species have been more palatable than the native in areas where <br />range seeding is a common practice." <br />Finally, although some experts believe sage grouse must have an all <br />native diet for survival, research in North Park by Poley (1969) <br />and May (1970) has demonstrated a marked preference during the <br />summer for introduced species over native species. Dargon et. al. <br />816-148 a <br />