Laserfiche WebLink
Revision <br />February 1982 <br />• proposed site. Since no major sources of these pollutants exist in the <br />surrounding area, concentrations are considered to be at background or <br />natural levels. <br />Visibility at the site ranges from less than 1 mile to approximately <br />100 miles throughout the year. Average visibility is about 54 miles with <br />greatest visibility occurring during spring and summer months. <br />(2) Fish and Wildlife Plan <br />Hawk's Nest is an existing operation which has been mined since the <br />early 1900's (Section 2.04.3). It is also an underground mine with total <br />surface disturbance of only 29 acres. Because of these factors, impacts to <br />fish and wildlife seem to be minimal and wildlife have apparently adjusted <br />• to the presence of mining operations. This view is supported by the <br />Colorado Division of Wildlife (personnal communication Rick Sherman; refer <br />to Appendix XVIII-2). <br />However, there are some mitigating measures that will be implemented. <br />Speed limits on haul roads will be implemented to reduce big game road <br />kills. Fugitive dust will be controlled by watering and chemical dust <br />suppressants where necessary. <br />During employee meetings, the importance of wildlife protection and <br />avoidance, especially during critical periods, will be stressed. Abusing <br />program which reduces traffic to and from the mine is currently in <br />operation. <br />The North Fork valley is an important wintering area for big game, <br />especially mule deer. Because of the distance between the East and West <br />Portals and the minimal amount of surface disturbance, deer movements <br />in and through the valley are probably not impacted. <br />2.05-57 <br />