8128

• UCREFRP Catalog Number: 8128
• Author: U.S. Bureau of Reclamation.
• Title: Operation of Glen Canyon Dam\
• USFW Year: 1995.
• Copyright Material: NO

Description of Alternatives
The eight action alternatives were designed to provide a broad spectrum of
options. One alternative would allow unrestricted fluctuations in flow
(within the physical constraints of the powerplant) to maximize power
production, four would impose varying restrictions on fluctuations, and
three others would provide steady flows on a monthly, seasonal, or annual
basis. The names of the alternatives reflect the operational regimes they
represent. In addition, the restricted fluctuating flow and steady flow
alternatives include common elements, which are discussed in the next
section. The EIS team and the cooperating agencies attempted to balance
benefits to all resources (physical, biological, cultural, and consumable) in
identifying the preferred alternative-the Modified Low Fluctuating Flow
Alternative.
COMMON ELEMENTS
The elements common to all restricted fluctuating flow and steady flow
alternatives were designed to provide additional resource protection or
enhancement. Impact analyses took these common elements into account.
Adaptive Management
Many uncertainties still exist regarding downstream impacts of water
releases from Glen Canyon Dam. The concept of adaptive management
is based on the recognized need for ongoing operational flexibility to
respond to future monitoring and research findings and varying resource
conditions.
The purpose of the Adaptive Management Program would be to develop
modifications to dam operations and exercise other authorities under
existing law as provided in the Grand Canyon Protection Act to protect,
mitigate adverse impacts to, and improve the values for which the Glen
of the
Designee
Adaptive Management
Work Group A
Z -7? `111?
Technical Monitoring and Independent
Work Group '-'? aeseerch center ?"'-? Review Panel
Canyon National Recreation Area
and Grand Canyon National Park
were established. Long-term
monitoring and research are essential
to adaptive management and would
measure how well the selected
alternative meets resource
management objectives.
Consultation would be maintained
with appropriate agencies of the
Department of the Interior, including
the FWS, NPS, Reclamation, and BIA;
the Secretary of Energy; Governors of
Arizona, California, Colorado,
Glen Canyon Dam EIS Summary 9