2010-04-06_REVISION - M1979205 (13)

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• E • The only small game species occurring on the project site is the Nuttal's cottontail rabbit. This species occurs mostly in shrubby vegetation and within the riparian habitat. The cottontail and various rodent and ground squirrel species on the site are prey for raptors and other predator species in the area. Predators and other furbearers likely to occur on site include: American beaver, muskrat, mink, ermine, badger, raccoon, red fox, and coyote. Beaver, raccoon, and coyote tracks have been observed on the site. 2. Significant Non-Game Resources on the Affected Lands The project site provides habitat for a diverse array of breeding and migrant bird species. It also provides habitat for raptors as well. Thirteen species potentially occur in the area based on the CDOW Wildlife Resource Information Service. They include: bald eagle, golden eagle, Swainson's hawk, red-tailed hawk, rough-legged hawk, northern harrier, merlin, American kestrel, Cooper's hawk, sharp skinned hawk, northern goshawk, great-horned owl, and long- eared owl. Many of these species are infrequent spring and fall migrants that occasionally pass through the Colorado River Valley. American Kestrel and Coopers hawk are most commonly seen on the site. Dense riparian areas provide good potential nesting sites. It should be noted that the areas within 100' of the river and within the oxbow will not be disturbed, therefore keeping much of the high quality riparian area intact. A bald eagle's nest has been located in the oxbow area since December 2009. The nest is protected from both pits by large groves of cottonwood trees that will not be disturbed. Nevertheless, United contracted Westwater Associates of Grand Junction, CO to develop an Eagle Management plan to ensure that the operation does not disturb the eagles. This plan is included in Appendix A and must be followed. It has been approved by the US Fish and Wildlife Service, CDOW, and Garfield County. Scott Pit March 10 H-2