2012-03-05_PERMIT FILE - P2011008

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Scoping and Public Involvement: Internal scoping within the Forest Service occurred between the district Ranger and the IDT in order to determine the best course of action to protect natural resources from undue degradation. A Wildlife Biological Assessment and Evaluation, a Biological Assessment and Evaluation for Plants, and a Cultural Resource Inventory were conducted for this project by the Rio Grande National Forest specialists. Hydrological and soil reports were also included. A legal notice was published in the Valley Courier on September 10, 2011, for public comment. This project was listed in the May 2011 Forest's Schedule of Proposed Actions. Several comments were received, but they were not substantive and reflected personal opinions rather than environmental or legal concerns. Reasons for Categorically Excluding the Proposed Action: The Proposed action qualifies as a categorical exclusion under 36 CFR 220.6(e) (8) Short-term (1 year or less) mineral, energy, or geophysical investigations and their incidental support activities that may require cross - country travel by vehicles and equipment, construction of less than 1 mile of low standard road, or use and minor repair of existing roads. Decision It is my decision to accept the "Plan of Operation Klondike Mineral Exploration Project." as submitted March 08, 2011 and amended on August 01, 2011 and authorize the exploratory drilling under the design criteria listed below. I have considered public and internal scoping comments. Impacts to other resources are expected to be minimal Based on the analysis and review of extraordinary circumstances and other resources of concern, I have determined that this project can be categorically excluded from an analysis in an environmental assessment or environmental impact statement. James Pitts February 15, 2012 District Ranger Klondike Mineral Exploration Project - Decision Memo 8 1 P a g e