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I . Fish and Wildlife <br /> 1 . Introduction <br /> Wildlife have continued to inhabit Coal Basin <br /> during the 25 years of Mid-Continent ' s mining activity . <br /> Mining activity has had little effect on the physical <br /> habitat , and a diverse wildlife population is evident , <br /> although some species which are particularly sensitive to <br /> human activity may have been disturbed or displaced . <br /> Deer and elk feed close to mine facilities , and <br /> occasionally bear, as well , seek food at the surface facil- <br /> ities . Records indicate that no deer or elk have been <br /> killed by transportation of coal within the permit area . <br /> All vehicles are restricted to within 25 mph . The company <br /> policy of prohibiting hunting has probably helped preserve <br /> the big game population of Coal Basin . In the years before <br /> Mid-Continent ' s operations began, Coal Basin was a favorite <br /> hunting area . <br /> Wildlife habitat will be improved by the completion <br /> of the company ' s rock tunnel project , which will result in <br /> sharply decreased use of the present haul roads . When <br /> restricted to light use, the roads should then serve as <br /> access corridors for the wildlife, allowing them to range <br /> with greater ease throughout the basin . Revegetation of <br /> portal areas will also improve habitat diversity . The <br /> reduced surface activity will also lessen the potential for <br /> disturbance of sensitive species . <br /> -1- <br />