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Slender wheat ass 10 <br />Mountain bi sae 5 <br />Common snowbe 5 <br />While none of the species identified for inclusion in the permanent seed mixture for final reclamation are a cause <br />for significant concern, we would like to see a permanent seed mixture that includes a significant percentage and <br />diversity of forb species as well as grass species. Any efforts to increase forb abundance and diversity will benefit <br />Greater Sage-Grouse and enhance the reclaimed azeas potential to be used by sage-grouse for nesting and brood- <br />rearing. We also recommend an increase in the composition of sage brush and a decrease in the percentage of <br />mountain muhly in the seed mix. A list of preferred species can be obtained from the CDOW. <br />CHEMICAL STORAGE: <br />The application you submitted to DMG states that your client does not intend to store or use any designated <br />chemicals or acid-producing materials on site. If at any time the King Mountain Sand & Gravel Mine requires the <br />use and subsequent storage of chemicals for any portion of their operation, including but not limited to the <br />processing plant, asphalt plant, and concrete plant we recommend that all such chemicals not only be stored in <br />compliance with state and federal regulations but also a sufficient distance from Smith and Egeria Creeks to ensure <br />that water contamination does not occur. <br />VISUAL BUFFERS: <br />Due to the location of the proposed pit, it is unlikely that King Mountain Sand & Gravel Mine will be required to <br />include visual buffers as part of the gravel operation. However, if you client opts to include any vegetative <br />plantings to address aesthetic concems, we recommend that trees not be included as part of any scheduled <br />plantings. Trees are not suitable for inclusion in this sagebrush habitat type. Furthermore, trees could provide <br />perch and roost for bird species that prey on sage-grouse. <br />SUMMARY: <br />in summary, the CDOW is concerned that the expansion of this gravel pit could severely affect Greater Sage- <br />Grouse habitat in southern Routt County. We feel that the impacts are great enough to recommend both on site and <br />offsite mitigation. <br />As always, we appreciate the opportunity to comment on activities that affect wildlife issues. Please do not hesitate <br />to contact my staff or me if you have any questions and or concems. <br />Sincerely, <br />Susan M. Werner <br />Area Wildlife Manager <br />CC: R. Velarde, L. Miller, L. Graham, Public services <br />SMW/ekm <br />