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construction, in this case, log and rock crib dams. No prehistoric resources were found in the project impact area during cultural resource surveys. No significant impact is projected on cultural resources. The canal system itself would not be affected. The function and basic use of the diversion dam itself would not change and the design of the passageway appears much like a natural river channel. Initial analysis indicates that the passage would impact the diversion dam in two possible ways. First, by shoring up the downriver portion of the dam, it may help preserve the dam in place. The only possible adverse impact would be a notch which would run for approximately 30 feet along the top of the dam, with a depth of about 2 feet. This notch may expose, and perhaps impact, the original log and rock structure. If this occurred it would provide an opportunity to record the condition, design, and other factors of the. Social. Economic, and Recreation Factors The GVIC Diversion and irrigation system is one of the key elements in the social and economic fabric of the Grand Valley. For over 100 years, it has supported area farms and orchards, and in more recent years has become an important source of water for residential irrigation, for recreation and fish and wildlife developments, and for the overall quality of life in the Grand Valley. The Colorado River itself has long been used for recreation, and this use is increasing as people become aware of the resource through various riverfront improvement projects and education projects. Presently, some recreational boating, kayaking, and rafting occurs in the reach of the river upstream from the GVIC Diversion Dam. Accurate use figures are not available, but a rough estimate would be 300-400 boaters annually, many using inner tubes (personal communication, Carlos Sauvage, 1997). There is an informal boat launch area near Palisade where people can enter the river above the GVIC Diversion and take out at various locations downstream. Parking is located next to the river so the launch site is relatively easy to use. During low water conditions, persons participating in recreational boating must portage their vessels over the GVIC Diversion Dam or walk around the diversion on private land, both methods resulting in trespassing on private property. During higher flows, boats can float over the diversion; although currents can be extremely dangerous. The outlet of the Orchard Mesa Irrigation District power plant produces a whirlpool a short distance downstream that is potentially hazardous at certain flow levels. Experienced boaters using this area are aware of this situation and are able to avoid the whirlpool area. The greater majority of boating use occurs downstream, and there are several plans being discussed to provide a "walk-in" launch site downstream from the GVIC Diversion Dam on city of Palisade property. This may solve some of the above problems in the future. Under the No Action alternative there should be no significant impacts on the social, economic, or recreational conditions. Under the proposed plan, commitments are included to fully protect the 19