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. . 2. Development Activities The IS-mile reach is the reach of currently-known occupied habitat on the Colorado River that will receive the most impact from upstream water withdrawals. The reach is regulated by two large agricultural diversion structures which have the potential of virtually drying up upstream portions of the reach and greatly diminishing flows throughout the reach, especially during low water years. This situation may be exacerbated in the future as planned and permitted upstream diversions come on-line. Table 1 contains a listing of projects that have completed Section 7 consultations on the Colorado River but have not yet come on-line. Of these projects, Ruedi/Green Mountain water sales, Two Forks and Williams Fork appear most likely to be developed. The Rock Creek project is also on a "fast track" and Section 7 consultation is anticipated in 1988. The Denver Water Department and the Public Service Company recently announced the Shoshone Water Rights Transaction that, if implemented, would reduce winter flows in the IS-mile reach. Oil shale projects are unlikely to be developed in the near future. Over the long term numerous diversions and upstream developments are e~pected to meet the growing demand for water for M&I development on the east and west slope. The new developments are expected to divert flows from the Colorado River primarily during the spring runoff period. 3. Discussion The IS-mile reach is actively used by Colorado squawfish and razorback sucker throughout the year for a variety of purposes, especially by adult fish. The IS-mile reach is also an important component of the home range of the Colorado squawfish and razorback sucker that reside in the Grand Valley area of the Colorado River. The IS-mile reach is currently experiencing low flow conditions during the late summer irrigation season, especially during low water years. As noted above, these low flow conditions may be exacerbate as new upstream developments come on-line. Water rights acquisition investigations should be closely coordinated with endangered fish release from Ruedi/Green Mountain Reservoir, the Section 7 consultation on the Aspinall Unit, and any changes in Green Mountain Reservoir operations to meet the Orchard Mesa Power Plant water needs. In summary, the IS-mile reach was given a Priority 2 ranking (along with the White River) because of the biological importance of the reach espeCially to adult Colorado squawfish and razorback sucker, and the upstream development projects that may exacerbate the already low flow conditions which prevail in the reach, especially during low water years. 8