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waterfowl habitat. Several small islands created in the ponds should provide some nesting habitat for waterfowl. A meandering shoreline could also enhance the ponds by creating more surface area for aquatic vegetation and hiding cover for waterfowl and other aquatic species. I would suggest creating 30 feet of meandering shoreline for every 100 feet of pond shoreline. Most of the better quality habitat exists on the riparian portion of the permit area, and the greatest impacts to wildlife will occur in those locations where some native riparian vegetation is dominant. Native vegetation along the riparian zone should be spazed wherever possible. Additionally, non-native species such as Tamarisk, Russian Olive, Knapweed and other weed species should be eradicated in the permit area. The removal of the above mentioned vegetation will be critical in creating a healthy riparian habitat during the phases of re-vegetation. The proposed reseeding of the upland azeas on site should be beneficial for wildlife once the area is reclaimed. Visual and noise buffers should be considered wherever possible to reduce impacts to wildlife over the life of the gravel operation. The increase in noise from vehicles and mining machinery, along with the increase of human activity, will likely force some of the wildlife species to abandon the area. Buffers could consist of enhancement of woody vegetation along with earthen berms. The vegetative buffers could screen visual and noise impacts from some of the more important habitat areas such as the heron rookery, the riparian corridor, and the large islands in the permit area. Cottonwood and willow plantings would grow quickly and could provide some buffering effects along these areas. The applicants could consider purchasing similaz properties along the river corridor in order to establish conservation easements to mitigate for habitat conversion and disturbance at this proposed site. The protection of similar habitats along the Colorado River could provide wildlife with refuge azeas that could be managed specifically for wildlife habitat. The Colorado Division of Wildlife would appreciate the opportunity to work with the landowners and applicants in creating a public fishing or hunting easement on the property when mining operations have concluded. This property could provide an opportunity for waterfowl hunting or possible fishing access to the river. Providing hunting and fishing opportunities for youths is critical to the recmitment of future anglers and hunters. This property could assist the Division of Wildlife with its long term goal of providing opportunities for youths and other sportspersons. Thank you for the opportunity to provide comments on this important land use issue. If you have any questions, please contact Brian Gray. Sincerely, Dean Riggs, ArV e Wildlife Manager cc: John Bredehoft Ron Velazde John Toolen Brian Gray