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EXHIBIT H <br />WILDLIFE INFORMATION <br />Wildlife Resources on the Affected Lands <br />The habitat within the development area has a high wildlife value. Wildlife species in the <br />area include deer, elk, eagles, coyotes, bobcats, mountain lions, and numerous other <br />species. <br />The gravel pit activity will take place on a slightly sloped parcel of land along the river, <br />adjacent to riparian habitat. Riparian habitats along with water are crucial for most <br />wildlife in the area throughout the year; the majority of animals use it for some aspect of <br />their life cycle. Riparian areas are vulnerable to disruption, but offer the best habitat to a <br />wide variety of animal species. The Colorado Division of Wildlife has been contacted <br />and requested to comment concerning the effect of the pending operation on the Wildlife <br />and Wildlife Habitat, but we are still awaiting their response. <br />Endangered Species <br />No known threatened or endangered wildlife species are found on the proposed pit site. <br />Seasonal Use of Affected Lands <br />The proposed site is important for mule deer and elk as a winter range. Mining operations <br />would be especially stressful during the winter and early spring seasons. <br />General Effects of the Operation on the Existing Wildlife of the Area <br />Gravel extraction and screening activities will no doubt create some disturbance to <br />animals near the site. However, resident wildlife will generally become accustomed to <br />these activities. Migrating animals will probably avoid the site, although the site does not <br />block any known migratory routes, and wildlife should be able to move through the area <br />unimpeded. Due to the possibility for animal/vehicle collisions, hauling activities will <br />probably pose the biggest threat to wildlife. Vehicles will keep to posted speeds and <br />drivers reminded to be aware of the potential for collisions. By selling product locally, <br />this operation may reduce some truck traffic supplying material to the Rangely area from <br />elsewhere, so it may actually reduce the overall wildlife collision risk in the area. <br />Noxious weeds will be controlled during the operation of the pit. The pit will be an asset <br />to wildlife at the time of reclamation as the new vegetation will provide foraging, nesting, <br />and cover habitats for numerous species of wildlife. <br />Colorado Division of Wildlife <br />18