2012-10-01_REVISION - M1977306 (22)

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page 9 #327 3. Wildlife Values Range management practices that promote proper grazing use and maintain the site in a good to excellent condition will improve or maintain wildlife habitat. Preservation of shrub species is important for providing critical winter range for mule deer and habitat for various song birds. However excess brush will reduce the habitat value for wildlife species such as cottontails, jackrabbits and rodents that support other predator species. For these species brush management and proper grazing use can be very beneficial. 4. Hydrological Interpretations Soils in this site are grouped into "B" & "C" hydrologic groups, as outlined in the Soils of Colorado Loss Factors and Erodibility Hydrologic Groupings handbook. Field investigations are needed to determine hydrologic cover conditions and hydrologic curve numbers. Refer to Peak Flows in Colorado handbook, and SCS National Engineering Handbook, Section 4, for hydrologic curve numbers and determining runoff quantities. Generally, the canopy cover will be better when this site is in good to excellent condition. A high canopy cover is more efficient at reducing erosion. The exception to this rule occurs when the proportion of grass is high yetcondition class is low. In this case, the erosion control value is very high. 5. Recreation and Natural Beauty This is not a site with appeal for camping or fishing so it is not used extensively for this. There is some potential for hunting of small game. When the forbs bloom in the spring, the site can be interesting for photographers and other visitors that enjoy vegetation. 6. Endangered Plants and Animals It is probable that bald eagles and peregrine falcons use this unit occasionally. There is a very small possibility that black— footed ferrets could be found on this unit.