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Ferruginous Hawks is 140m to prevent flushing of 90% of raptors wintering in rangeland and agricultural habitats (Holmes, 1994). Leaving a portion of Prairie Dog Colony A intact would meet the buffer recommendation as well as maintaining an important food source for the raptors. Species associated with prairie dog colonies, the Black-footed Ferret and the Burrowing Owl may potentially occupy the site. The permit application does not state whether a survey for Black-footed Ferrets is required by US Fish and Wildlife Service, or if a clearance letter has been written. Since Burrowing Owls aze absent from this azea during the winter, we recommend that a survey for the presence of the owls is conducted prior to disturbance of prairie dog colonies from Mazch 1-October 31. The Wildlife Resources Assessment states that a survey for Preble's Meadow Jumping Mouse has been conducted and a report sent to US Fish and Wildlife Service for their approval. The assessment also states that potential Mountain Plover habitat exists in the southern portion of the project azea, but does not state if a survey has been done for the plover's presence. The Mining Plan specifies a 200' setback from the South Platte River. The maps, however, appear to have a setback only where the jurisdictional wetlands aze indicated. In order to protect the riparian area and the diversity of lazge and small mammals, birds, and hetptiles that inhabit the site, a 200' setback from the western shoreline of the river is recommended. It is also recommended to keep as many of the mature cottonwoods as possible, and to leave snags where feasible. It is our understanding that disturbance of wetlands on the western part of the site will be mitigated by about 100 acres of wetlands created during the reclamation phase. The Reclamation Plan states that the disturbed area will be planted with a native grass seed mixture, shrubs, and trees recommended by the NRCS. It is recommended that an ongoing weed management plan be implemented in order to enhance the quality of the habitat for wildlife. The ponds created during reclamation are proposed to have a shoreline slope of about 3:1. A slope of 5:1 and an irregulaz shoreline would encourage more emergent vegetation and use by ducks and other waterfowl. Addition of underwater topography would enhance the ponds as fisheries. Thank you for the opportunity to comment on this project. If you have questions or concerns please contact Shazlene Haeger at 970-278-0905. Sincerely, ~l'fi~i o~.~ -F~~-~ Scott Hoover Regional Manager cc: Mark Leslie, Mike Sherman, Mike Babler, Sharlene Haeger Craig, Gerald R. 2004. Recommended buffer zones and seasonal restrictions for Colorado raptors. Colorado Division of Wildlife.5pp. Holmes, Tamara L. 1993. Behavioral responses of grassland raptors to human disturbance. MS Thesis. Colo. State Univ, Ft. Collins. 62 pp.