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_27_ XIII. Fish and Wildlife - Rules 2.04.11, 2.05.6(2) and 4.18 The fish and wildlife resource and mitigation plan sections of the application are found in Volume 1, pages 2.04-73 through 2.04-75, 4.18-1, 2.05-6U through 2.05-64, and in Volume 4, Exhibits 6 and 7. These sections were reviewed by the Division. The general mine area may be within the migratory route of Peregine Falcons. Although these falcons are an endangered species none of the mining activities are expected to have an adverse affect on them because they do not currently actively use the mine site. After reclamation, the improved conditions of the site for use as rangeland and wildlife habitat would enhance the potential for use of the area by raptors as hunting grounds. Pursuant to Rule 2.07.6(2)(n) and on the basis of available information, the Division finds that the proposed activities would not affect the continued existence of endangered or threatened species or result in the destruction or adverse modification of their critical habitats. The Division finds the proposed operation in compliance with the requirements of this section. XIV. Prime Farmland -Rules 2.04.12, 2.06.6 and 4.25 Tne Division has made a negative determination for the presence of prime farmlands within the proposed permit area. The decision was based on the evidence provided by the applicant and the Soil Conservation Service that there are no prime farmlands within the proposed permit area because none of the soil series encountered on the area have been designated as soil mapping units which qualify as prime farmland. This evidence can be found in Volume 1, page 2.04-76, and Volume 4, Exhibit 3 of the application. The Division therefore finds the proposed operation in compliance with Rule 2.U7.7(2)(k) with respect to prime farmlands. XV. Operations Description - Rules 2.05.2, 2.05.3(1,_ 2. The general description of the mining operation and facilities have been reviewed by the Division for compliance with the Rules and Regulations. The mining plan which has been recently amended entails mining of five separate coal seams in two areas where they occur above the ground water taole. Under this dry mine plan approximately 520,000 tons of coal per year will be mined. The mine life under this plan is limited to 27 months and approximately 1,190,000 tons of coal. The disturbance on-site is expected to impact 900 acres under the dry mine plan. Concerns raised during the preliminary adequacy review, such as the location of powerlines and construction of the conveyor system, have been satisfactorily resolved by the applicant. The Division finds the proposed operation in compliance with the requirements of this section.