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<br />000281n~ <br /> <br />Answer: We expect the salinity levels at the NIB to increase slightly every month. See salinity <br />data enclosed. However, the exact level of salinity delivered to NIB is dependent on the salinity <br />and quantity of flows arriving at Imperial Dam as well as the salinity and quantity of drainage <br />returns to the Colorado above NIB, and any Gila River flows that might occur in the future. We <br />would expect that the salinity levels delivered to NIB could range from 700 ppm or lower to <br />highs around 1000 ppm in months when Mexico's water order is the lowest. <br /> <br />Question 18: However, studies performed by Reclamation show that the Treaty <br />requirements would not be exceeded. Please provide a copy of these studies, or summaries. <br /> <br />Answer: Analysis of data indicate that the salinity requirements of Minute 242 are not likely to <br />be exceeded. Even as salinity levels in the river above Imperial Dam increase, our studies <br />currently show that the salinity levels would be within requirements the Minute. However, <br />should we agree that the intent of Minute 242 is that the average annual salinity differential <br />between NIB and Imperial Dam remain at or near 115 ppm, some action may be required to <br />lower salinity levels at the NIB in the future, such as discharging a portion of the flows into the <br />MODE, reducing the amount of drainage pumping, changing the location of discharge.of some of <br />the drainage from NIB back to SIB, or by operating the Yuma Desalting Plant (YDP). <br /> <br />Please refer to the salinity studies enclosed herein. <br />