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Response: Map 29 has been revised to reflect the proposed disturbance associated with TRIO-73. A <br />copy of the revised map accompanies these responses. <br />4. Based on concerns from the Colorado Division of Wildlife (DO 99, the Division has the following <br />additional adequacy concern. The proposed disturbed area is located within Greater sage-grouse and <br />Sandhill crane production areas. <br />Section 4.18(1) states that, "Any person conducting surface coal mining operations shall to the extent <br />possible using the best technology currently available, minimize disturbances and adverse impacts of <br />the operations on fish wildlife and related environmental values and, where practicable, achieve <br />enhancement of resources of such resources " and Section 4.18(5)(d) states that, "Each person who <br />conducts surface coal mining operations, to the extent possible using the best technology currently <br />available, shall restore, enhance where practicable, or avoid disturbance to habitats of unusually high <br />value for fish and wildlife as identified by the State. " <br />Based on the above Sections and in consultation with the DOW, the overhead powerline is a concern <br />from the standpoint of providing raptor perches within critical grouse habitat. It is the <br />recommendation of the State that some type of mitigation measures be put in place to discourage the <br />use of new powerpoles as raptor perches. In addition, please ensure that construction activities will <br />not take place during sage-grouse breeding season (March 1 to June 30). <br />Response: TCC's standard policy is to construct all powerlines with raptor protection on the poles to <br />minimize the potential for electrocution. Typically, this involves the installation on cross-bars of <br />triangular brackets which discourage perching. The revision text has been revised to note the use of <br />raptor protection, with copies of the revised text page accompanying these responses. Given that <br />construction of the 19-Right Dewatering Installation will occur during 3rd Quarter 2010, we are already <br />beyond the critical breeding season.