2008-09-29_PERMIT FILE - C1981019A (5)

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RULE 2 PERMITS Colowyo initiated range management and habitat improvement programs, and other mitigation measures in 1976 to offset the expected impacts of mining. A detailed discussion of the wildlife mitigation plans is set forth in Section 2.05.6. Aerial Counts (See CDM report for update information) Initial aerial transects were flown monthly throughout the winters of 1974-1975 and 1975-1976, and one flight in 1977 to count elk and deer as well as coyotes, bobcats, raptors, etc. The counts were made to establish population trends, activity patterns, and estimate numbers of animals wintering on the site. As shown on the Big Game Use Information Map (Map 13), the study site was gridded into five areas to allow for more detailed observations. The areas were flown on an east-west pattern. Flight lines were normally about one-half mile apart, which allowed observations to be made a quarter of a mile on either side of the aircraft. All observations were recorded on standard forms and included numbers of animals location, habitat type, and when possible sex and age. During the two winters of observations (1974-1975 and 1975-1976), deer and elk numbers fluctuated from 43 to 101 and from 20 to 119, respectively. Conclusions that can be drawn from the data are as follows: (1) the number of animals observed is greatly affected by counting conditions; (2) the severity of winter affect the total number of animals observed within the area; (3) certain areas are utilized more than others; and (4) deep snows have a greater impact orb deer numbers and areas of use than on elk. As discussed earlier in this section, use of the winter range by deer and elk is directly related to weather conditions and snow depth. Information from the aerial surveys are shown in Table 2.04.11-6, Aerial Game Counts. Calving and Fawning Areas Counts were made each spring in late May and early June (peak of calving and fawning activities) of 1974 and 1975 and again in 1980. The study site was traversed by vehicle and on foot to identify the more desirable areas as shown by the number of females with young. The counts were made early in the morning or late evening. Binoculars or a spotting scope are used to observe the animals at considerable distance. This technique helps to minimize undesirable or unnecessary flushing of the animals. By not driving the animals into the heavy cover, more accurate counts can be made. By establishing a baseline for numbers of calves and fawns born each spring, average reproductive rates, and identification of desirable calving and fawning locations, potential or actual impacts can be evaluated. Appropriate mitigation measures (as discussed in Section 2.05.6) have been implemented. The deer and elk observations are summarized in Table 2.04.11-7, Sex and Age Ratios. 1980 Observations Observations were conducted along a 15.6 mile road transect during the summer of 1980. The transect was divided into eight segments to more accurately, determine distribution of animals. The counts were made in early morning and late evening during June through August. All species observed along the transect were noted, together with location and vegetation type. Information on sex, age, condition, etc. were also recorded. The information will be used to compare calving and fawning activity, brood site, etc. in the spring with population numbers, sex and age ratios, etc. through the end of the summer to determine the condition of the potential breeding populations and what impacts, if any, have occurred. Winter aerial counts will also be used to supplement the summer observations. The results of the Rule 2 Permits 2.04.11-5 Revision Date: 6/23/08 Revision No.: MR-91