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i 4 <br />for the construction of the above gravel pit and associated roads will negatively impact the <br />native wildlife species associated with this project area. Upon rehabilitation of gravel pit, <br />negative impacts to native wildlife can be offset by planting a suitable mixture of native <br />• grass/forb/shrub seed. Seed plantings on disturbed soils will have greater germination and <br />survival rates when the soil surface has been prepared to hold moisture and runoff <br />precipitation. Soils will exhibit increased moisture retention capabilities when the soil surface <br />has been loosened with a "ripping tool" that creates a rough and uneven soil surface and seed <br />bed. This treatment will increase seed germination; and, will reduce the amount of surface <br />runoff and soil erosion. Rehabilitation on disturbed areas should be done as soon as possible. <br />Drilling in seed also increases the probability of successful reclamation. <br />Increased travel on roads in the area also has a detrimental impact on wildlife. Road kills are <br />a direct impact and traffic noise indirectly impacts wildlife. Limiting high traffic near dusk and <br />dawn will help reduce impacts on wildlife. The majority of wildlife is active during these time <br />periods. <br />If the reclaimed area is converted into a pond at the site, create a shoreline mosaic of shallow <br />areas with wetland vegetation such as cattails and rushes to benefit waterfowl and other <br />wildlife. If the pond is stocked in the future with fish, consult with the Division of Wildlife. <br />There would also be an opportunity to open these ponds up to the public as a fishing access. <br />These comments will relieve stress on wildlife in the area. We would anticipate that long-term <br />impacts to wildlife from the proposed gravel pit should be minimal as long as the activity plans <br />to be completed within the quickest time frame possible and reclaimed immediately. Thank <br />you for the opportunity to comment on this proposal. Please contact your local District Wildlife <br />• Manger, Mike Swaro at (970)-878-6068 if you have any questions. <br />Sincerely, <br />Bill deVergie <br />Area Wildlife Manager <br />PO Box 1181 <br />Meeker, CO. 81641 <br />(970) 878-6061 <br />•