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shrubs, and zero perennial or annual grass. Only one site, Pit 1 had a forb and grass layer and it <br />was composed of kochia (Bassia spp.) and annual wheatgrass (Eremopyrum triticeum). <br />Data presented in this report is not represented to be comprehensive or complete. Distribution <br />and population status are subject to change according to season of year and population trends, <br />whether rising, stable or falling. Highly transient or mobile species utilizing adjacent habitats are <br />included. <br />Game Resources <br />The area west of the river including the pits is classified severe winter range for mule deer <br />(Odocoileits hemionus) by DOW (NDIS 2009). However, in visits during February 2009 very <br />little evidence of use by mule deer in winter was found. Due to mild winter condition in 2008- <br />09, this finding is expected. Evidence of one or two fawn size mule deer was observed at Pit 1 at <br />the north end of the GRGP area where the canyon walls begin to open into a wider valley. No <br />other sign of mule deer was observed on other pits. <br />Waterfowl were observed on the Gunnison River during both field visits. Species observed <br />include common goldeneye (Bucephala clangula) and mallard (Anas platyrhyunchos). Other <br />species including Canada goose (Branta canadensis) likely present but were not confirmed. <br />Other species mapped by DOW for Mesa County were checked on line for potential occurrence <br />in the GRGP vicinity. No Wild turkey (Meleagros gallopavo), American elk (Cervus elaphis), <br />black bear (Ursus americanus), and pronghorn (Antilocapra americana) seasonal activity areas <br />are shown overlapping the GRGP pits or vicinity. <br />Nomiame Resources <br />The Gunnison River through the GRGP vicinity is important bald eagle (Haliaeetus <br />leucocephalus) habitat. Until recently, Bald Eagles were classified threatened by State and <br />Federal regulations till 2007 when the species was de-listed. Despite delisting, the species is still <br />a significant wildlife resource of considerable interest from the perspective of biodiversity <br />conservation. <br />The GRGP vicinity is classified by DOW as bald eagle winter concentration in the canyon <br />bottom and bald eagle winter range east to US HWY 50 and west of the Gunnison River to <br />Cactus Park and beyond (NDIS 2009). Bald eagles can be found foraging in winter <br />concentration areas along rivers throughout the winter. They also forage for winterkill wildlife <br />carrion on winter ranges as well as for carrion from auto and truck collisions along highways in <br />areas where major big game populations are found. <br />The river otter (Lutra canadensis) is a potential river resident in the reach including GRGP. This <br />playful, charismatic species is a re-introduction of a previously extirpated species. It is known <br />for an ample appetite and the ability to migrate great distances. <br />Gunnison River Gravel Pit Wildlife Information