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_ associated activities. However, since approximately half of the area to be dis- <br />• Curbed is mountain shrub vegetative type (not prime sage grouse habitat) only <br />minor impacts are expected for these species. Sagebrush (Artemisia tridentata) <br />is abundant in adjacent areas and will volunteer back quickly on reclaimed areas <br />from seed and roots in the replaced topsoil (Section 3.6). <br />Sharp-tailed Grouse <br />Sharp-called Grouse (Pedioecetes phasianellus) population levels are low within <br />the proposed mine plan area with no known active strutting grounds (Section 2.4). <br />This species will suffer a temporary loss of habitat due to mining activities. <br />The loss of food and cover will force these birds to adjacent areas where suita- <br />ble habitat exists. However, revegetation with native species in combination <br />with shrub transplants are expected to promote reestablishment of premine popula- <br />tions within the mine plan area. Rogers (1969) described sharp-tailed grouse <br />habitat as areas where grass is dominant or sub-dominant with light interspersion <br />of shrubs, wheat and trees. Islands of mature shrub transplants surrounded by <br />areas of grasses and forbs will be produced during the first few years of revege- <br />tation. In essence, more suitable habitat will be ititially established for <br />• <br />sharp-tailed goruse than is presently located within the mine plan area. <br />Mourning Dove <br />Mining will most likely have a positive effect on the mourning dove (Zenaidura <br />macroura) population. Dove populations are expected to increase due to the addi- <br />tion of stockwater impoundments and sediment control structures (Sanderson, <br />1977). Increased water in addition to islands of shrub transplants for nesting <br />purposes will enhance the mourning dove population. <br />• <br />4-159 <br />REVISED FEB 13 '87