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Water Availability. BLM is awaze of only one decreed surface diversions in this reach, the Taylor Ditch. However, the CWCB should confirm that this ditch is still in operation. BLM recommends using USGS gage 07093775 (Badger Creek near Howard, CO) as an indication of water availability, since this gage was operated near the downstream terminus of the proposed reach. BLM does not recommend using USGS gage 07093740, because this gage is located upstream from the proposed reach, and the readings do not include flows from the major spring complex that feeds Badger Creek. The extremely stable water supply afforded by these springs is evidenced by the abundance of watercress in the stream channel, which grows only in very stable flow regimes. Finally, please note the previous instream flow appropriation completed in 1974 appears to refer to this spring complex as the headwaters of the creek, but the headwaters of the creek aze actually located more than ten miles upstream. Relationship to Management Plans. BLM is interested in protecting flows on Badger Creek because it is one of the few streams managed by BLM on the eastern side of the upper Arkansas River Valley that is capable of supporting a salmonid fishery. It is cleaz that resident brown trout in the Arkansas River move up into the creek for spawning purposes. Because the creek has public access at several points, it has the potential to become a more heavily used recreational fishery as stream conditions improve and fish populations expand. In addition, BLM has participated in ongoing partnerships with land owners along the creek to improve upland, riparian, and aquatic conditions. Stream conditions have improved markedly because of these partnerships, but there are still some isolated locations where stream health conditions are poor. The BLM requests that the Boazd recognize that this recommendation is based only upon the minimum flows necessary to support cold-water fishery values. BLM may wish to work with the Board and/or through the Colorado water rights system to appropriate flows to optimally protect fish values and to protect other water-dependent values specified in BLM resource management plans. Data sheets, R2Cross output, fishery survey information, and photographs of the cross section are enclosed to support this recommendation. We thank both the Division of Wildlife and the Water Conservation Board for their cooperation in this effort. If you have any questions regarding our instream flow recommendation, please contact Roy Smith at 303-239-3940. Sincerely, ' ,~ _--, 1 ~~ J 1 Linda M. Anaiiia Deputy State Director Resources and Fire 4 Enclosures cc: David Gilbert, Royal Gorge FO Roy Masinton, Royal Gorge FO John Smeins, Royal Gorge FO