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'001277 . . Draft Task 7 Technical Memorandum Many considerations were given to what method of operation of existing and potential storage would best serve existing and projected demands, and the needs of the aquatic community in the Yampa River. A great deal of consideration was also given to the very important question asked during the permitting process of any new facility, "What is the purpose and need for this facility?" The answer to this question relates to both water users in the basin and aquatic life needs. The needs of water users and the aquatic community could best be served by implementing a management strategy which provided augmentation water out of storage to offset the impacts of depletions of junior users Gunior to 1954). Implementation of an augmentation management strategy for the Yampa River Basin by utilization of existing and new storage will eventually enhance water supply availability to many mainstem and tributary users and the Threatened and Endangered fish. The objective of this task of the Feasibility Study was to evaluate alternative water development projects in the basin in order to support recommendations by the CRWCD to other parties involved in the decision making process. In addition to the CRWCD Board of Directors, other parties involved include the Colorado Water Conservation Board, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation. Recommendations Based on the results of the evaluations described above, we recommend that the CRWCD pursue the following: 1. Develop the enlargement of Elkhead Reservoir utilizing a portion of the Juniper Reservoir water right to the best size which meets the maximum 2040-level demand scenario, including all exchange potential. 2. Develop a decree for the enlargement of Stagecoach Reservoir to 52,000 af utilizing a ~~o1fy portion of the Juniper Reservoir decree. The Stagecoach enlargement alternative is recommended over the alternative to develop a new storage facility on the Williams Fork River based on associated project costs and the limited potential to service demands through exchange along the Yampa River. 3. Give further consideration to a project development package which would accomplish recommendations 1. and 2. above, and provide conversion of the remainder of the Juniper Reservoir water right to instream flows for the benefit of the aquatic community. 22 i.