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lJ <br />EXHIBIT H - WILDLIFE INFORMATION <br /> <br />Our mining and reclamation area, especially along the South <br />Platte River does provide some natural cover for wildlife <br />habitats. Most of this area will remain in its natural <br />habitat, unmined and undisturbed (see mining plan map). <br />Of the animals that have been observed, mice and rats appear to <br />be most numerous. Some observations of skunks and red fox have <br />also been made. Area I-A a-pears to have some ground squirrels <br />and also rabbits. <br />All of the above animals are quite common in Colorado with two <br />of them considered severe pest species (mice and Norway or <br />Brow rat). <br />No endangered animal species such as the black-footed ferret have <br />ever been observed on our subject property. Of the Avian species, <br />quite a few duck and some occasional geese frequent the area, <br />mainly along the river with some landing in the already created <br />lake. Their numbers increase considerably during the migration <br />periods. <br />In addition, some magpies and unidentified Fringillids (sparrow form) <br />also frequent the area, again, mainly along the South Platte River. <br />No endangered Avian species such as Peregrine Falcon have ever <br />been observed in the area. <br />IMPACT AND RECLAMATION <br />Although the Reclamation Plan will diminish the existing land <br />area for some previously described mammals, the overall effect <br />through creation of new water areas, lakes, will be positive in <br />providing additional habitat for waterfowl throughout the year, <br />possibly enticing them for nesting and permanent residence. <br />In addition, the lakes will provide habitat for new form of wild- <br />life; namely, fish which is presently nonexistent, to the future <br />enjoyment and recreational use of the area. <br />CONCLUSION <br />Although, some disturbance for wildlife might be created because <br />of mining and reclamation activity, overall, the proposed Reclama- <br />tion Plan will not have any significant impact upon Colorado <br />wildlife, on the contrary, it is felt that their habitat will be <br />enhanced and new recreational resource through introduction of <br />fisheries will be provided to enjoyment of many. <br />