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. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4.3. WATER QUANTITY OBJECTIVES AND RECOMMENDED ACTIONS 4.3.1 OBJECTIVE: Improve Water Quantity and Stream Flow Information and Availability of Information for Local "Decision Makers" and Citizens Local understanding of water quantity needs to be increased, especially in relation to new and proposed growth. Water authorities and governmental ("decision makers") entities need to work closely together to ensure water management is congruent with planned development in the basin. Recommended Actions 1. DETERMINE OPTIMAL INSTREAM FLOWS The public and officials expressed con- cern regarding the adequacy of instream flow standards set by the Colorado Water Conservation Board (CWCB). The issue was raised that optimum flows be identified that maintain a healthy and naturally self sustaining trout popula- tion. This flow standard should be based on biologically defensible criteria and should be used as a target (goal) flow and should include flushing flow data. As a priority of the Eagle River Watershed Committee (see Implementation, Chapter 3), establish a cooperative effort between the Division of Wildlife, CWCB, recreationists, water users/providers and governing entities to determine an optimal flow for the Eagle River and tributaries that has defensible criteria. This optimal flow should then be used as a target flow when reviewing projects that may affect water resources. The Eagle River Management Committee could initiate the effort, in cooperation with other on going water planning groups. This effort should also include a complete study of water use in the watershed by identify- ing major water consumers in the water- shed, consumptive use, actual supply, and estimated projected demand for the entire watershed. The Committee along with area water users may want to request changes to instream flow stan- dards from the CWCB, the legal authori- ty, based on the analysis done to deter- mine optimal flows. This study must include recommendations on how to reach optimal flows. 2. DETERMINE WATER SUPPLY THRESHOLDS Local land use planning and water plan- ning efforts must identify critical thresh- olds for growth. For instance, a Waste Water Treatment Plan has a capacity to treat the water of a certain number of households before needing to be upgraded. Critical thresholds should be identified in planning efforts and the consequences of exceeding thresholds should be clearly identified to decision makers. In order to understand fully thresholds, this action must include a comprehensive study of the amount of water in the watershed, the amount that is appropriated through water rights, the amount that is developed (being used) or is planned to be developed (Le. front range rights), and the future needs of the watershed. 3. UTILIZE THE COLORADO RIVER DECISION SUPPORT SYSTEM Utilize the Colorado River Decision Support System to make informed deci- sions related to water quantity. This is a state sponsored computerized system that has stream flow information and ~~ .". IIMI6I 23