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. e . J-A. ..... ':1 C.:) SPECIAL STUDIES (continued) 3. Future Studies The conclusions in BLM's 1977 and 1978-79 Salinity Status Reports regarding effects of man's activities on salinity have been drawn primarily from published results dealing mainly with effects on infiltration, run- off, and sedimentstion. Recent results (studies funded by BLM and USDI, Office of Water Research and Technology) have shown a relationship between increased salinity and increased runoff and soil loss. These data were used as a justification for this extrapolation. However, the duration of the studies was short, 3 years at the maximum. Further studies relating to the effects on salinity levels of control of oil-gas activities, mining, ORV, and grazing are needed. Additional data are also needed on the feasibility of controlling natural and man-caused point sources of salinity from ground water. The following studies are suggested for future consideration in order to better understand the facts influencing salinity and the best means of reducing salt yields from public lands. a. Research on the Effects of Grazing on Hydrologic Responses, and Ultimately on Salinity, Should be Continued As contrasted with previous studies, the main feature of this project would be the direct measurement of salinity as affected by grazing treatments. Data on other more conventional parameters, such as runoff, sedimentation, changes in vegetation, erosion, and infiltration properties, would also be collected. These data would improve our knowledge of the relationships between hydrologic responses and salinity. b. A Demonstration and Experimental Evaporation Pond Salinity Control Project Could be Constructed Salt Creek in western Colorado is a likely candidate for a site. Such a project would be studied to provide BLM with data ou design prob- lems, construction techniques and costs t maintenance problems and cost 5 t evaporation rates, and effects on wildlife and other aspects of the envi- ronment. c. Water Qualit Data Are Necessar Success of Land Use and men\: plans) ~n response to this and other resources' needs for informa- tion) a series of stream-gaging stations have been located in Colorado and Utah on ephemeral and perennial channels. These gages are providing valuable data on salinity levels from arid and seimarid public rangelands. The stations are located in regions where little data on water quality have been previously collected. Maintenance and operation of these stations should be continued. In addition, biological data should be collected on the watelands. The stations are located in regions where little date on 121