Laserfiche WebLink
<br />..r <br />.., . <br /> <br />. <br /> <br />. <br /> <br />Mr. Robert Williams <br />April 15, 1993 <br />Page 3 <br /> <br />o Existing Recovery Initiatives. The cooperative initiatives to recover the four <br />endangered fishes deserve consideration in the proposed rule for several reasons. <br />First, they are relevant in characterizing the current status and future prospect of the <br />species. Second, they include commitments by federal and state governments and <br />several Tribes to protect necessary water resources under state or tribal laws, and to <br />allow water development to proceed in accordance with applicable interstate compacts <br />and federal laws. furthermore, these existing initiatives are in the process of <br />identifying essential elements of habitat needed to recover these fishes and providing <br />long term protection under appropriate provisions of federal, state and tribal law. <br />These factors appear relevant in the economic analysis. <br /> <br />In conclusion, the State of Colorado remains concerned that an adequate opportunity for <br />public review and comment has not been provided. The court order in Colorado Wildlife <br />Federation v. Turner and the applicable federal regulations afford the Service sufficient <br />latitude to extend the public comment period based upon the complexity of both the issues <br />and the information relevant to the proposed action. The proposed 60 day period for review <br />of the biologic and economic analyses does not seem adequate, based on currently available <br />information. Therefore, we urge that all pertinent information be made available in a <br />readily accessible format and that adequate time be allowed for public review and comment <br />prior to finalization of the rule by the Service. <br /> <br />We look forward to working cooperatively with the Service and other Recovery Program <br />participants to develop a rule that serves the needs of the endangered fish and allows <br />Colorado to protect its compact apportioned waters. Thank you again for the opportunity <br />to submit these comments. <br /> <br />Sincerely, <br /> <br />,...----J \' , <br />L;~. ) '\..~ '-~___ <br /> <br />Ken Salazar <br />Executive Director <br /> <br />cc: Governor Romer <br />Colorado Water Conservation Board <br />Colorado Wildlife Commission <br />Endangered fish Recovery Program Participants <br /> <br />g10499.1lr <br />