Aspinall EIS - Scoping Report May 2007

Home Browse Search

Cumulative impacts of restrictions of CRSP reservoirs on hydropower need to be analyzed. Flow recommendations allow considerable flexibility in achieving targets; this flexibility should be recognized in alternatives. WAPA e ncourages Reclamation to develop alternatives without strictly adhering to the example described in the flow recommendations. WAPA requests that they be a co - consultant on ESA issues and utilize WAPA’s technical expertise in negotiating the reasonable and prudent alternative, conservation measures, and “take” provisions. According to the NOI, Reclamation is attempting to “avoid jeopardy”; the flow recommendations are a contribution to “recovery”. Therefore WAPA believes that Reclamation is not required t o strictly meet all of the flow targets. Bureau of Land Management: The Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area downstream from the Aspinall Unit is a valuable recreation resource and is important to the local economy. BLM has previously provided inp ut on the relationship of river flows to recreation and natural resources. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration: The EIS should assess the implications of climate variability and long - term trends in climate for meeting the goals of Aspinall operations. Eff ects of long - term droughts need to be considered and alternatives should allow for adaptive management to account for water conditions that are outside the boundaries of historical data. Flow recommendations are based on a relatively shor t period of record; using a longer record and consideration of climate variability may be beneficial. Referenced some studies that indicate a trend toward lower and earlier runoff conditions and this should be considered in alternative development. Envi ronmental Protection Agency: The purpose for the proposed action should be to meet ESA requirements. The Congressionally - recognized priority under the ESA takes precedence over other authorized purposes. The baseline for the project should not include future water depletions such as the AB Lateral Project or “60,000 af” subordination. Ute Mountain Ute Indian Tribe: Effects of operation changes on junior water rights and all water users in Basin must be considered in the EIS. General Assembly - State of Colorado: Expressed concern that new operations could adversely affect water storage benefits and hydroelectric supplies. Use of “spill” water for spring flows can meet endangered fish needs, protect Aspinall Unit purposes, and comply with the April 2003 Black Canyon settlement agreement. 15