2011-02-10_PERMIT FILE - C1981012A (5)

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of high interest, unique to the area, or critical for any area wildlife as an abundance of this habitat exists in the area. However, • areas outside of the existing mine facilities support a wide diversity of wildlife. • Thirty-nine species of mammals have been reported as being fairly common in this area of the state (Bissell, 1982). This list, with their habitat preference and relative abundance, are contained in Exhibit 16, Fish and Wildlife Information. Four species of big game including mule deer, elk, black bear, and mountain lion are common to the area. Mule deer is the most abundant species of big game. Data gathered by DOW (1983) classify the area to be within the permit boundary as both summer and winter range. There are severe winter range and critical habitat areas to the west and south of the facilities area, however, there are not anticipated to be affected by any mining operations. Deer sign was observed during the 1984 site reconnaissance near the surface facilities. The mine permit area is also classified by DOW as elk winter range, bull elk winter range, with some calving areas also occurring (Holder 1994). The area south and west of the existing facilities area has been classified as severe winter range and critical habitat. In addition, the area near the facilities area contains no identified migration corridors or calving areas. Elk sign was observed in Apache Canyon (south of the facilities area) during the 1984 site reconnais- sance. Slack bear and mountain lion are common to the area, however, are not commonly observed in the facilities area due to existing human disturbance. Although black bears are uncommon within the facilities area, there have been reports of human/bear interac- tions within the facilities area. Mountain lions are also uncommon within the facilities area. However, road kill mountain lions have been reported in the area of existing facilities (Holder, 1984). • Therefore, Basin Resources will advise all employees and contractors 2.04-48 (Revised 01-04-94)