2004-10-28_PERMIT FILE - M2004067

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Banks and Gesso, LLC Bird Populations Table 1 presents a compilation of bird species representative of mountain shrub and ponderosa pine communities. Not all species listed in the table would be expected to reside on the proposed mine site but are potential and known residents of mountain shrub and ponderosa pine communities. Game species that could occur on the property are turkey, blue grouse and mourning dove. Blue grouse and mourning doves are common along the Front Range of Colorado with populations that offer recreational hunting opportunities Potential Impacts to Birds Habitats associated with the site afford nesting sites for many species of birds listed in Table 1. Although there will likely be some small population reductions in some local bird populations as a result of habitat disturbance, the availability of suitable offsite habitats will mitigate these reductions. Furthermore, upon reclamation, birds from these adjacent habitats will re-colonize disturbed areas. Prey base (small birds and mammals) for birds of prey will experience small, local population reductions. Birds of prey will experience minimal impacts from reduction in their prey base. Mammal Populations Table 2 lists species of mammals known to reside in mountain shrub and ponderosa pine communities Impacts to Small Mammals Small mammal populations will incur short-term impacts during mining. Some of these mammals may be able to disperse to surrounding habitats; others may not find suitable habitat not already saturated to carrying capacity. Large Herbivores Mule deer, elk and bighorn sheep commonly use mountain shrub and ponderosa pine communities for both winter and yearlong ranges along Colorado's Front Range. All three species are managed as big game animals. Clear Creek District Water Providers, LLC October 25, 2004 MMRR Quarry 20 03047