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D. Comparisons between reclaimed and undisturbed areas, in order to demonstrate that <br />success criteria of 4.15.8, 4.15.9, or 4.15.10 have been met, will be based on the <br />following values: 1) total cover, 2) herbaceous productivity, 3) woody plant stem <br />density, 4) species diversity, and 5) frequency (4.15.7(2)(d)). <br />E. The Division approves of the reference areas which the applicant has selected based <br />on the requirements of Rule 4.15.7(3). <br />F. The reference areas will be utilized to determine revegetation success in a manner <br />which the Division finds acceptable (4.15.7(4)). <br />G. The Division finds that the use of woody plant density standard is not appropriate for <br />the rangeland portion of the Loadout, as discussed previously in this section <br />(4.15.8(7)). <br />XI. Post - mining Land Use <br />The post- mining land use is discussed under Tab 20 and Exhibit 18 -1 of the permit <br />application. <br />No specific approvals are granted to the applicant under this section. <br />XII. Protection of Fish, Wildlife and Related Environmental Values <br />Tabs 11, 21 and Exhibits 11 -1 and 11 -1A of the permit application discuss the protection of <br />fish, wildlife and related environmental values. <br />The HG Loadout was originally permitted in 1981 in conjunction with the HG Mine (Permit <br />C -80 -003). A comprehensive biological inventory was not conducted at the HG Loadout <br />during that period or since. The applicant has, however, done site reconnaissance at the site <br />and referenced regional studies of the area. <br />In lieu of a comprehensive inventory, both the applicant and the Division have undertaken <br />extensive consultation with the United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) and the <br />Colorado Division of Wildlife (CDOW). This review of fish and wildlife concerns <br />proceeded with the approval of both agencies. A biological assessment by the Division was <br />forwarded to USFWS on February 25, 1993 as requested. <br />Fourteen measures for protecting fish and wildlife resources are incorporated into the permit <br />beginning on page 2, Tab 21 of the permit application. These measures include 1) limiting <br />additional disturbance to soils and vegetation, 2) prevention of the discharge of hazardous <br />substances, 3) installing raptor protection on new transmission facilities, 4) adoption of a no <br />firearms policy 5) compensation to the USFWS for depletion of waters to the Yampa River <br />and 6) prompt reporting to the Division of any discovery of critical habitat or species of <br />concern. <br />Hayden Gulch Loadout 30 November 22, 2011 <br />