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• <br />Water Availability. BLM is not aware of any decreed diversions above or within the proposed <br />reach. BLM reconunends using diversion records associated with the Clark Ditch and the Alder <br />Creek Ditch as an approximate indicator of water availability. In addition, USGS gage 08224410 <br />(San Luis Creek) may be a helpful indicator of water availability, because it is located close to <br />Alder Creek. However, this gage may be affected by ditch diversion located upstream from the <br />gage. <br />Relationship to Management Plans. BLM is very interested in protecting stream flows in <br />Alder Creek because it is one of the few streams managed by BLM in the northern San Luis <br />Valley that is capable of supporting a salmonid fishery. The stream is presently in stable <br />condition, with some impact from livestock grazing and heavy recreational use. BLM is in the <br />process of implementing management changes to improve conditions along the creek. Protected <br />stream flows are an important factor in meeting BLM's riparian and fisheries objectives. <br />The BLM requests that the Board recognize that this recommendation is based only upon the <br />minimum flows necessary to support cold-water fishery values. BLM may wish to work with <br />the Board and/or through the Colorado water rights system to appropriate flows to optimally <br />protect fish values and to protect other water-dependent values specified in BLM resowce <br />management plans. <br />Data sheets, R2Cross output, fishery survey information, and photographs of the cross section are <br />enclosed to support this recommendation. We thank both the Division of Wildlife and the Water <br />Conservation Board for their cooperation in this effort. <br />If you have any questions regarding ow instream flow recommendation, please contact Roy <br />Smith at 303-239-3940. <br />Sincerely, <br />~; j ~ .~ <br />.~ ~ <br />Linda M. Amnia <br />Deputy State Director <br />Resource and Fire <br />4 Enclosures <br />cc: Dave Gilbert, Fmnt Range Center <br />Steve Sanchez, Saguache FO <br />Jim Rhett, Monte Vista Center <br />• <br />