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There are several existing roads in the area, and the CPW recommends improving existing roads <br />and using those to access the mine sites versus creating new roads. This would help to minimize <br />habitat fragmentation as well as disturbance to existing wildlife. <br />With the increased human activity at the JD -9 Mine, the spread and control of noxious weeds <br />becomes a concern for wildlife. Invasive plants endanger the ecosystem by disturbing natural <br />processes and jeopardizing the survival of native plants and the wildlife that depends on them. <br />Colorado law requires that invasive noxious weeds are managed and controlled through standard <br />weed maintenance and controls. We recommend that Cotter Corporation continually control <br />noxious weeds near the mine site on any and all roads used. In areas where existing or new roads <br />cross drainages that have even temporary flow, the CPW supports the control of tamarisk to <br />prevent further infestation. <br />The Dolores River Drainage contains three BLM- designated Sensitive Species of fish that are of <br />concern to CPW: bluehead sucker, flannelmouth sucker, and roundtail chub. These species are <br />declining and are sensitive to any additional water depletions or changes in water quality in the <br />Dolores River Basin. If any water is necessary for mining operations, please contact the BLM <br />and the CPW to discuss how td manage your operations to provide adequate protection for these <br />species. <br />Thank you again for the opportunity to comment on the proposed JD -9 Mine. Please contact the <br />BLM and the CPW to identify suitable off -site habitat enhancement projects to mitigate for direct <br />and indirect losses of big game severe winter range habitat. Our field personnel are available to <br />assist you with designing these projects and selecting a location with the highest potential for <br />success. <br />If you have further questions please contact myself or District Wildlife Manager Tony <br />Bonacquista at (970) 864 -7109. <br />Sincerely, <br />Renzo DelPiccolo <br />Area Wildlife Manager <br />2300 South Townsend Ave. <br />Montrose, CO. 81401 <br />Colorado Parks and Wildlife <br />cc: Tony Bonacquista -DWM, Tony Gurzick- Acting Southwest Region Manager <br />