Wildlife guzzlers were originally constructed by the BLM and UDWR in the Anthro area in the 1980's. Unfortunately, these developments have surpassed their functional life and are in need of replacement. All three guzzlers are not working currently. In addition, these three guzzlers were constructed with buried tanks and underground plumbing. This design has been problematic for maintenance over the years. Pronghorn on the Anthro sub-unit relay heavily on developed water sources. The population level is much lower than periods in the 1990's. To help enhance the population, the water sources need to be restored or enhanced. In addition, pronghorn are drawn to agricultural fields to the north where they depredate on crops. It is essential to provide adequate water sources to help alleviate the depredation problems. Anthro sub-unit elk utilize lower elevation habitat on a year-round basis. These guzzlers are often heavily utilized by elk. These guzzlers help draw elk away from aspen areas on Anthro Mountain, where the USFS has expressed concern. The intent of this project is to once again restore water distribution and abundance for all wildlife species.

The objectives of the project are to: 1.) Rebuild three non-functioning guzzlers 2.) Increase water sources for pronghorn and elk. 3.) Increase distributions and use areas for wildlife species.

There are not any negative risks anticipated from completing the project. However, if the project is not completed, water will remain limited and desired distribution and use by benefiting wildlife species will be reduced. Pronghorn populations on the Anthro sub-unit are highly dependent on developed water sources. Failure to maintain or enhance water availability will limit the population. In addition, without water, pronghorn will continue to be drawn to agricultural fields where depredation is becoming and increasing problem.

The project will benefit all of these high interest game species and support habitat improvement goals and objectives identified in the following plans. *Statewide Elk Plan *Statewide Pronghorn Plan

The project is not anticipated to have a positive or negative impact on fire and fuels. The guzzlers could provide some limited water for fire suppression efforts in case of an emergency.

Once completed, these three guzzlers will have a storage capacity of 5,400 gallons of water available to wildlife. Additional precipitation will occur throughout the year as the water is consumed, so the water made available is likely higher than this amount.

All three guzzler locations are located on old guzzler sites and work will be performed within the existing footprint. As such, this is a maintenance activity and NEPA or archaeological clearance will not be required.

All old guzzler materials will be removed from the sites and hauled to the local landfill. An 1,800 gallon Boss dome topped tank will be buried in the existing footprint. Next, a 12' x 40' supplemental apron will be constructed. The apron is supported by treated 6' x 6' posts. A wood deck is constructed with 2" x 6" lumber with 1/2" OSB decking secured. Then, metal roofing is installed to catch water and slope the runoff to the Boss tank.

The guzzlers will be inspected at least once annually in the future to determine functionality, and any maintenance needs required. Camera traps will be placed on each guzzler following completion to determine the effectiveness of the guzzlers and use by wildlife species. The results of the monitoring will help determine placement and design of future guzzlers and possible modifications to the current guzzler.

BLM is a great partner on this project. Many of these guzzlers were originally constructed through BLM efforts. BLM has taken the lead on completing other guzzler reconstructions in the area outside of the scope of this project.

Annual inspection of the guzzlers will ensure functionality and maintain them in good working condition. Repairs and maintenance will be completed as needed and determined through inspections.

The guzzlers will not directly supply to domestic livestock. However, livestock may benefit from shifting wildlife use away from other watering facilities and forage areas.

05/04/2020

06/25/2020

2020

Three big game guzzlers were replaced by UDWR NER Habitat permanent and seasonal employees.

Three big game guzzlers on the Anthro Limited Entry Unit were identified by the district wildlife biologist as non-functional and in need of replacement. At each of the three sites, an 1800 gallon boss big game storage tank was installed and a 12' x 40' apron was constructed to catch rain and snow. All of the old guzzler materials were hauled away and disposed.

Guzzlers will be monitored for maintenance needs by UDWR biologists, other agency personnel, and the public at large. UDWR habitat staff will perform any maintenance needs as they arise.