Biological baseline studies were conducted related to a proposed tailings alternative within the Tonto National Forest as outlined in a GPO, and related to proposed baseline activities in support of mining exploration activities in the same general area as described in a Plan of Operations. Sonoran desert tortoise surveys were conducted with the Tailings and the Baseline Activities Areas. The purpose of these surveys was twofold. First, all of the survey transects provide baseline information that could be used to inform future studies and monitoring activities related to potential impacts to individual or shelters. Second, the surveys within the Baseline Activities Areas provided 100 percent coverage of those areas, with the exception of a few Baseline Activities Area components that were not surveyed.