2009-02-26_REPORT - C1980005 (6)

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• METHODS UPLAND GAME BIRDS In 1995, a Columbian sharp-tailed grouse lek (Seneca l; NE NW Section 2, T5N, R87W) was discovered in reclamation at the Seneca II Mine by mine personnel (R. Karo, Environmental Coordinator). A second lek (Seneca 2) was found in reclamation in SW NW Section 12 during 1998. In 2002, ICF J&S biologists discovered a third lek (Seneca 3, SE SE Section 2) in reclamation between the first two leks. The Seneca 3 site is likely a satellite lek of both Seneca 1 and 2 and was located on a small bench at the top of a draw in reclamation. A fourth lek (Seneca 4) was discovered along the roadside in SW SE Section 1, T5N, R87W in 2004. This lek is also likely a satellite of one or more of the nearby leks. All leks are within 1.5 miles of each other (Exhibit 1). All four sharp-tailed grouse leks were checked for activity on 28 April 2008. Leks were surveyed within approximately one hour of sunrise. On those mornings, biologists drove or walked to a vantage point near each lek to count all birds present. If vegetation prevented a complete count from a distance, the biologist walked out to the lek and flushed the birds for a • final count. Searches for new leks on the permit area were also conducted from one-half hour before to one hour after sunrise on 28 April 2008. In addition to specifically visiting sites where non- displaying grouse were observed in past years, biologists searched for displaying grouse while slowly driving through the area. Frequent stops were made at vantage points to scan and listen for birds. Selected portions of reclamation were searched on foot. GOLDEN EAGLE NEST MONITORING Known golden eagle nests on or near the permit area were checked for activity on 28 April 2008. Biologists observed the nests through a spotting scope or binoculars from within a strategically parked vehicle. Nests were watched until their status (active or inactive) could be determined. 2007 Seneca 11 Mine Wildlife Monitoring Page 2