WSP08982

• File Number: 8220.127.O
• Description: Savery-Pot Hook Project
• Basin: Yampa/White
• Water Division: 6
• Date: 3/22/1977
• Title: Statement of Harris D. Sherman on the Savery-Pot Hook Project - Grand Junction CO
• Water Supply Pro - Doc Type: Report/Study

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Colorado River Squawfish, Humpback Chub, or Humpback Sucker found in the Colorado,

Yampa and Green Rivers. There were no findings of adverse impact. To date, none

of the species ha ve been found in the L ittl e Snake Ri ver. Moreover, the project woul d
have only insignificant effect on river temperature, turbidity, and flow pattern
beyond the Little Snake. No data was submitted by the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service

as a basis for altering that judgment.
Wildlife impacts and mitigation adequacy was a principal topic of concern and

controversy. Subsequent to receipt of the draft statement, considerable discussion

took place concerning the necessity and adequacy of proposed wildlife mitigation

measures.

I am pleased that the Bureau of Reel ama ti on has accepted recommendations

developed by the Colorado Division of Wildlife for important modifications. As a
. consequence, I be 1 i eve that the anti ci pated adverse wil dl ife i mpactswi 11 be reduced.

Three wildlife concerns come to light. First, the project's impact on fishing.

Although approximately 4 - 5 miles below and above the Pot Hook Dam site would be lost
as a stream fishery, our analysis showed overall fishing opportunity to be enhanced

by creation of a deep, large pool at the reservoir, with high water quality, and

provision for some 15 miles of fishing access upstream of the reservoir. As a result,

the reliability and range of fishing opportunities would be increased,

A second wildlife concern focused on loss of habitat for elk and deer in the

vicinity of the reservoir site. Colorado recommended purchase and management of

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sufficient range of comparable value in Moffat or Routt Counties at a cost not to

exceed $300,000. , I n our vi ew, th i s more than compensa ted any losses to deer and elk.
The third dimension is the most controversial and is based upon the relationship of
the project area to an important 'segment of Colorado's sage grouse and antelope popu-
lations. Conversion of sage habitat to irrigated crops could have a very serious effect.

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The total anticipated habitat loss will be approximately 16,000 acres. Some of this
land is critical winter range for both antelope and sage grouse. The Department of

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