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Evaporative loss from the impoundments is calculated by multiplying the total area of the ponds subject to evaporation by 3-feet of evaporation per year which results in an evaporative loss of 17.8 acre feet per year. Dust suppression is calculated using 465 each 3,000 gallon loads per year which totals 4.3 acre feet per year. Thus, the annual depletion of water from the upper Colorado River caused by the mine totals 22.1 acre feet. The 465 truck loads of water allows for one per day for seven months per year at the unit train loadout (140), five loads per day for three months per year for reclamation projects (300) and 25 loads per year for miscellaneous maintenance projects. In studying baseline vegetation surveys and planning specific reclamation activities, special note will be taken toward enhancing wildlife habitat. Shrubs and other forms of cover will be selected on the basis of suitability for habitats for chukars and other small mammals and birds. During the reclamation process of other areas, shrubs will be planted in clumps and boulders encountered during regrading will be used to construct rock piles to provide cover for small mammals and generally enhance the area as wildlife habitat. (a) The information from a baseline vegetation survey submitted to CMLRD in August, 1983 showed no surface mining being conducted in riparian areas. However, a riparian zone utilized by waterfowl exists near the Unit Train Loadout adjacent to the Colorado River, which may potentially be impacted. This area has been designated as a stream buffer zone with posted signs defining the boundary according to Stipulation Response 10 (SR10). Disturbed surtace areas will be reclaimed following closure of mining operations. Revegetation will be completed consistent with wildlife habitat post-mining land use. The decrease in industrial activity and the restoration of the land to approximate original state will enhance wildlife resources by increasing inhabitable domain. Those species of threatened and endangered species, eagles, and migratory birds discussed in Section 2.04.11, Tab Section 11 have co- existed with the present mining activities since 1973. Coal mine surface operations and facilities affect a relatively small part of DeBeque Canyon within the permit area. Since expansion of the surface facilities area is not planned, present habitat for wildlife will not be reduced. Therefore, continuing surface operations will not pose an adverse effect to protected wildlife. • 16-2 (Rev. 9/06)