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Analysis of MIS for this project is not warranted due to the limited scope of expected impacts. It is not possible to project a measurable influence on population trends or habitat availability based on the limited nature of the actions being analyzed. The area affected is too small to contain the home range of even a single individual of an appropriate MIS. Actions associated with this project are insignificant in their effects. Measurable impacts on species viability are not expected. Based on the analysis and determinations in the wildlife specialist reports, and inclusion of the conditions of approval (see attached; mitigating impacts to breeding birds/raptors), I have determined that there are no extraordinary circumstances associated with the proposed MDWs with regard to threatened, endangered, or FS sensitive species. Flood plains, wetlands, or municipal watersheds. Approximately 100 feet of the access road across Hubbard Creek is within a flood plain. However, consistent with Forest Service Handbook 1905.15, Ch. 30, the mere presence of one or more of these resource conditions does not preclude use of a categorical exclusion. It is the degree of the potential effect of a proposed action on these resource conditions that determines whether extraordinary circumstances exist. Because of the attached conditions of approval (Appendix A) and associated construction techniques associated with the crossing, accelerated sediment as a result of the proposed action would not be sufficient to violate Colorado's narrative sediment standard (Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, Basic Standards and Methodologies for Surface Water). Consequently, there are no extraordinary circumstances associated with these resources. Archaeological sites, or historic propeRies or areas Cultural surveys were completed and archaeological clearance has been obtained for the proposed MDWs (project file). Consequently, there are no extraordinary circumstances associated with these resources. Inventoried Roadless Areas The proposed MDWs and associated access roads are not within any Inventoried Roadless Areas. Public Involvement The Grand Mesa-Uncompahgre-Gunnison National Forest (GMUG) invited public scoping comments on the proposal from Oxbow regarding construction of the drill pads and access roads through a Public Notice in the Delta County Independent and the Grand Junction Sentinel dated March 15, 2006 (see project file). scoping letters were also sent to a list of known interested parties (project file). The scoping period ended on April 14, 2006. As a result of scoping this project, GMUG received 1 letter from the following individuals/groups: Delta County Board of Commissioners The county commissioners' letter was in support of the project.