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U00521 Reclamation typically operates Ruedi to release 39 cfs, or more, from November 1 through April 30 irrespective of inflow. Flows and storage estimates in this EA are based on releasing 39 cfs through the winter of 2002-2003. Past Ruedi releases of approximately 500 cfs have occurred withno reported scouring or erosion of the Fryingpan River streambed or banks. The Colorado River Endangered Fish Recovery Program has established target flows for the 15 Mile Reach (see Location Map), which their research indicates are necessary to achieve adequate habitat for recovery of endangered fish. A range of target flows was established to respond to variations in annual runoff based on snowpack conditions. Consequently, each spring Recovery Program personnel review winter snowpack data to characterize the type of runoff year and determine which 15 Mile Reach target flow is appropriate for the year. No Action Alternative Flows in the Fryingpan are anticipated to be approximately 200-220 cfs during August, September, and. October this year, a combination of releases for endangered fish, water service contracts, reservoir operation requirements, and inflows from Rocky Fork. Based on past information, this rate of flow is not expected to generate either scour or erosion problems in the Fryingpan River. Ruedi releases are expected to exceed inflows during the summer and fall while endangered fish and contract releases continue, resulting in a drop in reservoir content. Projected approximate reservoir storage volumes and elevations are presented in Table 3.2. Table 3.2. Approximate Storage Volume and Elevation of Ruedi Reservoir by Month Under No Action. DATE STORAGE (AF) ELEV A TION (ft) August 1 68,400 7727 September 1 62,600 7720 October 1 53,100 7706 November 1 45,600 7694 Winter releases from Ruedi meet minimum releases. The reservoir is low, so it will be operated to replenish storage, meaning any inflows above minimum releases will be stored. Flows in the Roaring Fork are expected to continue to decline through the late summer and fall following the typical hydrograph pattern for the river. Flows in the 15 Mile Reach are expected to be impacted by the ongoing drought in Colorado. Ruedi will continue to make endangered fish releases in accordance with agreements negotiated with the Service and the Colorado Water Conservation Board. In 2003, beginning water year (April) storage at Ruedi would be approximately 40,500 AF, low in comparison to the average water year beginning storage of approximately 60,000 AF. For this reason, 11