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Geomorphology Research Priorities September 2003 • Same as those identified for flooded bottomlands in upper Colorado River subbasin under overall reach-habitat priorities above. b. Spawning bar complexes in the Colorado River (Palisade to Gunnison River, Gunnison River to Loma, Moab Bridge to Green River) and Gunnison River (Hartland Dam to Roubideau Creek). • Same as those identified for spawning bar complexes in upper Colorado River subbasin under overall reach-habitat priorities. c. Connected backwaters and side channels (Moab Bridge to Green River) Same as those identified for connected backwaters in Split Mountain Canyon to Desolation Canyon reach of the Green River under overall reach-habitat priorities above. One aspect of a phased, integrated approach is selection among the identified information needs. For instance, rather than attempting to determine the geomorphic basis of spawning habitats in all nine of the identified high-priority reaches of the upper Colorado River subbasin simultaneously, research should focus on a limited subset of representative spawning areas in one or a few of these reaches. Reaches should be selected for further study on the basis of the results of initial studies to identify and characterize spawning habitats in the subbasin. As relationships among flow, geomorphology, and habitat characteristics are determined in representative study reaches, results can be verified in other high priority reaches. All research of geomorphic processes and habitats should be based on hypothesis testing. We recommend that, whenever possible, studies incorporate experimental manipulations and the testing of predicted responses. We also recommend standardization of research protocols and data collection techniques. It is important to recognize that these recommendations are based on current understanding of habitat requirements and geomorphic processes. It is likely that adjustments to research priorities will be necessary as the research proceeds, and, indeed, the success of the effort will require such adaptation as new information is obtained and inferences are drawn. The research priorities identified in the report are recommendations based on data needs and their importance to recovery. Ultimately, the Recovery Program will determine the direction of future research, and multiple factors (including, but not limited to those considered in this report) will be considered in those determinations. List of Keywords Geomorphology, hydrology, habitats, research priorities, Colorado pikeminnow, humpback chub, razorback sucker, flooded bottomlands, connected backwaters, spawning bars, Upper Colorado River Basin, Green River subbasin, upper Colorado River subbasin xiv