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the foreground of the scenic vista of Sleeping Ute Mountain. The removal of the gravel body should finally reduce the local elevation about 8-12 feet. Very little visual intrusion should occur during operations, and after reclamation, would be compatible and unobtrusive to the panoramic vista. The presence of machinery and temporary buildings would be a temporary visual intrusion, but still within the character of the vicinity. Currently within the viewshed of the proposed gravel pit is a wrecking yard and several older mobile homes. The Cortez airport is out of view, but only about 1.5 miles away. Dust and Noise: Dust could be a problem from gravel extraction, crushing and hauling the material. Dust abatement has been addressed in the proponent's plan. Noise could also be a problem, however, not inconsistent with traffic noise from county roads or sounds associated with the airport. Both noise and dust can be mitigated by operational procedures as needed. Public Access: Upon review of the mining plan public access is an issue which must be addressed. BLM road # 4520 traverses the northeast corner of the 160. Fencing the entire 160 acres would limit public access to the remaining public land. This would have impacts on the other uses (livestock grazing, recreation, etc.?. In subsequent contacts with Mr. Stone we arrived at a modification to the plan that would allow Mr. Stone to control vehicle access to the processing area and pit, but allow continued public access by vehicle and foot to the rest of the 160 and the surrounding public land. Mr. Stone has agreed to provide vehicle access to the boundary of SMT2020 for the BLM to continue cultural resource evaluation and data recovery, if needed. Livestock Grazing: Cattle use is authorized by BLM in the Mud Springs allotment #08040 which is permitted to Wester Messinger for 50 Cattle from November 7 to January 6 each year. The 160 of mineral ownership is included in this allotment. Under the proposal as modified to not include a 160 acre boundary fence, but fence only that portion which is reclaiming at the time, no significant impact is anticipated to livestock grazing authorization. STANDARDS FOR PUBLIC LAND HEALTH Standard 1: Upland Soils - During gravel mining operations of an individual unit the disturbed area would not meet the standard. Stockpiling the topsoil is the best method of assuring that there is a sufficient plant growth medium for reclamation. Soils should meet the standard of public land health after reclamation of the site. Standard 2: Riparian Systems - No effect. 7