1998-02-04_REVISION - X199621901

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data acquisition as described in the FCEL Application will be employed. In this case, it is anticipated that a small ATV-type auger drill will conduct drilling. The holes created by the auger drill are a maximum of ten feet deep and 3 . 5 inches in diameter. Shot hole spacing is typically every 100 feet. The energy source will consist of a 1 - 2 pound explosive source. If ground conditions require,. a small (GD-1000 type) rotary drill may be utilized. This type of drilling would consist of 20-foot holes, 4 . 5" diameter with the same energy source. All associated equipment will travel overland without the need for road access or site preparation. Ground disturbance associated with the above-described methods will be minimal . All personnel involved in handling and storage on explosive materials will maintain appropriate federal licenses . It is anticipated that the entire seismic acquisition will be conducted within a three to four week period between June 1 and July 15. Upon completion of the seismic work, all holes will be back filled with drill cuttings, and any surface disturbances created will be properly mitigated. SURFACE USE AGREEMENTS Surface use agreements have been secured with all of the appropriate landowners except for that from the Cross Mt . Ranch. Copies of available agreements have been previously submitted. The outstanding agreements or notifications will be secured prior to access of subject property. WILDLIFE PROTECTION MEASURES As stated in Section 14 of the Exploration License, stipulations regarding the protection of nesting raptors and sage and sharp- tailed grouse have been applied within parts of the license area. As a substantial portion of this proposed exploration is within areas of suspected grouse habitat, CLC initiated a preliminary survey of wildlife resources in the exploration area. This survey will be followed up with ground investigations during late April . Attached are the preliminary findings and recommendations provided by Powder River Eagle Studies, Inc. In correspondence of July 10, 1996, Mr. James Haskins of Colorado Division of Wildlife also identified the concern of sage and sharp-tailed grouse critical habitat within the exploration area. A copy of this modification is being provided to Mr. Haskins for his review and assistance in this matter. Federal Coal Exploration License COC 59432 expires on August 6, 1998, and remaining exploration must be conducted prior to then. As this exploration is critical for the anticipated federal lease sale, we have proposed the investigation and wildlife protection