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XIV. Post-mining Land Use -Rule 4.16 <br />The Permit was found to be in compliance of Rule 4.16. <br />Site description and background land use information is found in Section 2.04.3 and on Map 17 of <br />the Permit. Specific objectives ofthepost-mining land use plan aze described in Sections 2.05.5 and <br />4.16 of the Permit. <br />The Applicant plans to return the disturbed azea to rangeland capable of supporting the historic uses <br />of livestock grazing and wildlife habitat. Specifically, the Operator plans to remove and narrow the <br />existing haul road (B) and leave light use roads and stock tanks subject to Division approval. These <br />land uses aze consistent and compatible with adjacent land uses. The Bureau ofLand Management, <br />the agency responsible for managing the federal lands portion of the affected azea, has reviewed the <br />plan and stated by letter that the post-mining uses for rangeland and wildlife are acceptable <br />(Findings, 1992). <br />No specific findings required by Rule 4.16 aze applicable. <br />XV. Air Resource Protection -Rule 4.17 <br />The Permit was found to comply with Rule 4.17. The mine operates under a valid air resource <br />protection permit issued by the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment. <br />XVI. Protection of Fish, Wildlife and Related Environmental Factors -Rule 4.18 <br />The Permit was found to comply with Rule 4.18 <br />Descriptions offish and wildlife resources are contained in Sections 2.04.11 of the Permit. The fish <br />and wildlife portion of the reclamation plan starts on page 2.05.65 of the Permit. Other <br />wildlife-related information is contained in Section 4.18, Exhibit 11 and Maps 13, 14 and 15 of the <br />permit Application. <br />A. Deer and Elk <br />Colowyo has worked closely with the Colorado Division of Wildlife in developing its wildlife and <br />range condition inventories and its deer and elk habitat mitigation plan. The entire permit azea is <br />designated as winter range for both mule deer and elk. <br />A program was initiated in 1976 to enhance habitat for big game and sage grouse by regenerating <br />decadent shrub lands located outside the disturbed area. The Operator proposed to delete the habitat <br />enhancement program. The justification for this request is presented on pages 2.05-68 through 70 of <br />the Permit. The Division of Wildlife was contacted, and voiced no opposition to this proposal. The <br />Division therefore approved this request. <br />Proposed Decision and Findings of Compliance 4 May 2007 <br />Permit Revision 02 Page 59 <br />