^ V. SCOPE FOR THE PROJECT 



Conserve and enhance land, wa ter, and wildlife: 



(1) The proposal area contains 2,143.13 acres. It will be managed in perpetuity 

 to enhance soils, water, vegetation, and wildlife species' habitats for the benefit 

 of the general public. 



(2) Wildlife species of major interest are: elk, mule deer, pronghorn, white-tailed 

 deer, bear, mountain lion, upland game birds, songbirds, raptors, bats, and other 

 wildlife species associated with the diverse array of habitats. 



(3) Current habitat condition: 



Fair to good according to historic livestock grazing patterns. Areas near water 

 sources are heavily utilized and are rated in fair condition. Vegetation condition 

 improves significantly as distance increases away from water supplies. Overall, 

 approximately 50 percent of the vegetation condition, species composition, and 

 general habitat is in good condition. 



(4) Important game population estimates: 



The upper portions of the Judith River drainage winters an elk herd of 

 approximately 900-1,200 counted animals, normally segregated into 3 separate 

 herd segments during the winter period. The elk herd segment associated vy^th 

 the Judith River WMA and adjacent private lands to the north and east, including 

 the proposal area, is comprised of 800-1 , 1 00 animals. 



Other species of big game are: mule deer, pronghorn, white-tailed deer, black 

 bear and mountain loin. Mule deer are the most abundant of these species, 

 with approximately 150-250 present on and near the JRWMA during the winter 

 period (mainly Reed Hill). 



Contribute to hunting and fishing opportunity: 



(1) The proposal area is accessible to the general public via the JRWMA 

 property and across adjacent private land currently in the MFWP Block 

 Management Program. Additional access across adjacent private property may 

 be pursued through negotiation, the Block Management Program, and/or 

 purchase of a permanent right-of-way easement. 



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