9581

• UCREFRP Catalog Number: 9581
• Author: U.S. Bureau of Reclamation.
• Title: Final Environmental Impact Statement - Navajo Reservoir Operations Volume II Technical Appendices.
• USFW Year: 2006.
• USFW - Doc Type: Grand Junction - Durango, CO.
• Copyright Material: NO

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Operating rules for Navajo Dam were developed in cooperation with the Bureau of Reclamation to
demonstrate how the dam may be operated to meet the flow recommendations. These suggested
rules determine the timing and size of release flows to maximize the ability of the river to meet the
flow recommendations. Releases to produce a peak spring flow are not made every year because
saving water, (l) for human use, and (2) to make a larger peak in a future year, is incorporated into
the rules. The flow recommendations, and use of the operating rules, will provide flows in the San
Juan River that will promote the recovery of the two endangered fish species. As presently
configured, the flow recommendations may also allow for a significant amount of future water
development in the basin.

This report addresses the science of the development of flow recommendations for the San Juan
River. It does not address the impact of the recommended flows on the holders of water rights in
the San Juan River Basin. Legal and management factors to be considered by the U.S. Fish and
Wildlife Service and affected parties will determine which holders of water rights will be affected
by these flow recommendations. The SJRIP recognizes that the flow criteria and operating rules
discussed herein are only recommendations that are subject to further refinement through the SJRIP
adaptive management process and pursuant to the National Environmental Policy Act.

SJRIP Biology Committee
May 1999

5-9

Executive Summary
Flow Report