Rio Grande - Rio Grande Reservoir Reoperation and Optimization Model_ BRT Approval Letter

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At the regular R.G.R.T meeting of September 9, 2008, members voted unanimously to request funding from SB 2005 - 179 funds for the Reservoir Reoperation & Optimization Model, as follows.. PROJECT AND AMOUNT REQUESTED SOURCE SB 179 REsERvoiR REOPERATIOlti A D OPTLMIZATIONMODEL $ 100,000.00 BASIN The Reservoir Reoperation and Optimization Model is Phase 3 of the larger effort to determine the requirements to rehabilitate the Rio Grande Reservoir, the only on-stream reservoir on the Rio Grande in Colorado. Phases 1 consisted of an initial of review of the rehabilitation options and the feasibility to enlarge the reservoir. Phase 2 addressed the site-specific issues, such as the geotechnical condition of the reservoir, a determination of the required spillway size based on the latest Extreme Precipitation Analysis Tool (EPAT), a detailed scope of the work to rehabilitate the reservoir, and an initial effort to produce a model that could be used to address different flow regimes. The Phase 3 of the broader study is to refine the flow regime model and further address previously identified reservoir uses. The model will permit multiple inputs, for example, the quantity of water of different owners stored in the reservoir and the timing and quantity of their discharges, the discharges necessary to meet the Rio Grande Compact, the flows to the agricultural irrigators, and the non-consumptive needs of the river, such as flows to enhance fisheries and riparian zones. The model will be user friendly, enabling multiple interested parties to use the model to address their specific interests. In addition, Phase 3 will include a detailed assessment of the potential for hydroelectric power generation from a rehabilitated reservoir, as this was only indentified in Phase 2. On behalf of the R.G.R.T. Members, we appreciate the Board's consideration of this request and urge your support to the fullest extent possible. By this letter, I am forwarding the application and supporting materials for the subject project. If you require additional information, please notify me accordingly. The R.G.R.T. appreciates the support of the Department of Natural Resources, the Colorado Water Conservation Board and the Interbasin Compact Commission in assisting in meeting the needs of all users of Colorado's water and in fostering intrabasin and interbasin communications and discussions. We believe that the above project will assist in this effort. Sincerely, Mike Gibson Chair, Rio Grande Inter-Basin Roundtable Enclosures (1) C: Travis Smith, Manager San Luis Valley Irrigation District Matthew Bliss, CDM Page 2 of 2