2004-11-09_REVISION - M2000016 (4)

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WILDLIFE RESOURCES ASSESSMENT FORT LUPTON PROPERTIES, WELD COUNTY, COLORADO • Common Garter Snake -State Species of Concern Black footed Ferret (Mustela nigripes) The black-footed ferret is a federally and state listed endangered species closely associated with the presence of prairie dogs. Afield reconnaissance survey was conducted to verify the location, size, and activity of prairie dog towns within and near the proposed project site and evaluate the capability of any existing towns to support ferrets. Prairie dogs currently occupy several areas within the study area. Federal guidelines establish a minimum area of 80 acres ofblack-tailed prairie dog towns that the Service believes is needed to support ablack-footed ferret (50 CFR 402). Prairie dog colonies within the study area do exceed 80 acres in area. Because prairie dog colonies located in the study area exceed the minimum size requirements believed to be necessary for ferret populations, ablack-footed ferret survey may be required prior to construction or other habitat disturbing activities. Preble'sMeadow Jumping Mouse (Zapus hurlsoniuspreblei) The Preble's meadow jumping mouse (Preble's) is currently listed as a threatened species under the Endangered Species Act (ESA) and is a state listed threatened species. Typically, this mouse occurs in low undergrowth consisting of grasses and fortis, in open wet meadows, ripazian corridors near Forests, or where tall shrubs and low trees provide adequate cover (Armstrong et al. 1997; Service 2004). The mouse occurs below 7,500 feet in elevation, generally in lowlands with medium to high moisture (Service 2004; Natural Heritage Program 1996) along permanent or intermittent streams (Ryon 1996). A trapping survey for Preble's was conducted from June 13 to June 19, 2004, due to the presence of potentially suitable habitat along the South Platte River and Big Dry Creek on the Fort Lupton Properties. No Preble's were found in 1,325 trapnights of survey effort following Service protocol. A separate report is being prepared to summarize the results of the trapping survey and will be submitted to Lafarge and the Service for approval. Trapping surveys are generally valid for 1 year. If construction does not begin within a year, a letter must be sent to the Service for an extension.