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WILDLIFE INFORMATION EXHIBIT H <br />The pre -mine pit area is entirely irrigated field for alfalfa and irrigated grasses. The overburden <br />storage area is flat and devoid of any vegetation from past activities prior to mining. A tall <br />cyclone fence prevents the overburden storage area from being used by large animals. The <br />irrigated field is allowed to be grazed by cows in the winter. The Colorado River is <br />approximately 1200 feet to the south of the Otter Creek property. Colorado Parks and wildlife <br />has issues an evaluation letter of the property, which is attached to this section. <br />1) Significant Game Resources on the Affected Lands <br />Mule deer, white tail deer and other large game are generally not seen in the area since the <br />surrounding area is high density residential. <br />2. Significant Non - Game Resources on the Affected Lands <br />Bald eagles, blue heron, ospreys and red - tailed hawks have been sighted in the area although no <br />nests have been seen within the vicinity of the permit area. Prairie dogs have not been seen since <br />the irrigated field keeps them at bay. Ring- necked pheasants are also occasionally observed on <br />the property. Cotton Tail Rabbits, Richardson Ground Squirrels, Mourning Doves, Raccoons, <br />Beavers, Ring- necked Pheasants, Grouse, Quail, Canada Geese, various duck species and <br />songbirds use the area to some extent. Birds and small mammals can be found near the drainage <br />canals. The letter from the CDOW points out that there is a blue heron rookery approximately 1 <br />mile upstream from the river. <br />3. Seasonal Use of Affected Lands <br />Most of the small game and birds use the site year round, although the eagles that are seen in the <br />area are seasonal. There are no bald eagle or golden eagle nests anywhere near the property, to <br />Otter Creek Pit December 12 H - <br />