1997-02-28_PERMIT FILE - M1997015

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TO• Jill Daniell FROM: Shane $riggs RE: Wildlife information for gravel ttttnirtg pemut on Surveyor Creek 8/13/9ti I apologize for the delay in getting back to you with this information. We are in the middle of a statewide reorganization and things are not quite up to speed yet as to who is going to be handling gravel mining permits in our area. I was waiting to find out internally who was going to be reviewing the permits and how they wanted to proceed, but it looks like those responsibilities won't be ironed out for a few weeks yet. Therefore, I looked at the proposed minvtg site yesterday so I could help you with the general wildlife information you requested for die application. I'm sure the application will be sent to us for comments once it is submitted to the Division of btinerals and Geology or whoever you send it to. 6.•t.8. Exhibit H - R'ildlife Information (from. you fax} (a) A description of the significant wildlife resources on the affected land; A general wildlife species list for the area would include, Mule dear, Pronghorn Antelope, coyote, Red Fox, Badger, Stripped Skunk, Long-tailed Wessel, Cottontail and Jack Rabbits, various species of rodents like Kangazoo Rats, Pocket gophers, Deer Mice, ea.., numerous avian species including raptors (hawks, owls, and eagles), game species (pheasants and doves), a long list of migratory and resident passerine birds such as jays, blackbirds, finches, warblers, and sparrows, and several species herptiles (snakes, lizards, nrrtles, and toads). (b} seasonal use of the area; Most of the species found in the area are residents and use the area year round. However, many avian species use the area seasonally for nesting, roosting, and thermal Cover. (c} the presence and estimated population of threatened or endangered species Norte. (d) a description of the general effect during and after the proposed operation on existing wildlife in the area......... I am not realty sure exactly niter your plarunng ro do as fat as mining goes. You told »te that a front loader would scoop up the gravel from the stream bed and then be hauled out in a truck. If that is the case, I would say impacts to wildlife would be temporary in nature. The increased human disturbance would move some species out of the area during the muting operation, but it would not be permanent. Bttt, if you destroy the stands of Cottonwood or Willows then there would be long term effects on the area from a wildlife habitat standpoint. On the other hand, if you expose ground water or create a depression that makes water more available to wildlife species, the effects could be beneficial to ..,ildlife. My guess is there will not be significant Long term impacts to wildlife or wildlife habitat. I hope this is what you needed to assist in completing the application, if not give me a call end T'll try to get you what you need. My !tome phone is 842-4018, the Brush office is 842-3724.