2011-08-29_REVISION - M1986015 (11)

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• • • Exhibit H - (AMENDMENT 4) Wildlife Information NOTE: No changes in the original information is needed for Amendment 4. The wildlife resources of this site are typical of bottomland riparian forest, grassland, and agricultural land. Although large animals such as deer (both Mule Deer and White - tailed Deer), fox, and coyote utilize the area, they generally range throughout the region. The greatest abundance of wildlife on site are small mammals and birds. The riparian forests throughout Colorado are important habitats for many species of song birds, especially warblers. In Spring and Summer, warblers, orioles, tanagers, and various sparrows and wrens are abundant in these forests. In some places, Wild Turkey may also be found. Of course, in winter the abundance of most of these species declines as many of the species are migratory and move south for the winter. Waterfowl is also abundant along the river and on adjacent ponds and lakes. These include various species of ducks, herons, and other wading or diving birds. Bald Eagles are often seen along the Arkansas River in winter but are rarely seen in summer as they generally migrate north. The abundant rodent population in the fields along the river are excellent hunting grounds for other raptors. Beaver and Muskrat also frequent the river and adjacent ponds and lakes. In wetland areas these species are rarely seen but are clearly present as evidenced by their nests and by cut down trees. In some places, the destruction of trees by Beaver is significant enough to alter the character of the forest as well as allow for increased bank erosion and channel shifting. Beaver will very likely be a problem with regeneration of any woody plants and may require protection of trees and shrubs. No species of threatened or endangered plants or animals are known to occur on the property. The reclamation plan for this site will include land uses that will be appropriate for many of the species that already occur on and near the site. Although land uses will change in the future, on balance the final land uses to be implemented may increase the habitat for some species and maintain habitat for other species.