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I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I 2000 RESERVOIR OPERA nONS Minimum instream flow levels and annual operating strategies have been established at several locations in the Upper Basin which are intended to protect the aquatic resources downstream of specific dams. The regulation of the Colorado River has had both positive and negative effects on aquatic resources. Controlled cool water releases from dams have provided for increased productivity of some aquatic resources and the development of significant introduced sport fisheries. However, the same releases may be found to be detrimental to endangered and other native species of fishes. Consultations with the Fish and Wildlife Service in compliance with Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act (Section 7 consultations) on the operation of the Aspinall Unit on the Gunnison River, Navajo Dam on the San Juan River, Flaming Gorge on the Green River, and Glen Canyon Dam will continue in 2000. Studies associated with these consultations will be used to better understand the flow related needs of endangered and other native species of fish. Modifications to planned operations may be made based on changes in forecast conditions. However, due to the Recovery Implementation Program for Endangered Fish Species in the Upper Colorado River Basin, Section 7 consultations, and other downstream concerns, modification to the monthly operation plans may be based on other factors in addition to changes in streamflow forecasts. Decisions on spring peak releases and downstream habitat target flows may be made midway through the runoff season. Reclamation and the Fish and Wildlife Service will initiate meetings with interested parties, including representatives of the Basin States, to facilitate the decisions necessary to finalize site specific operations plans. All operations will be undertaken subject to the primary water storage and delivery requirements established by liThe Law of the River" and other applicable statutes, including water quality control, recreation, enhancement of fish and wildlife, and other environmental factors. Reclamation completed Section 7 consultation with the Fish and Wildlife Service in April 1997 on current and projected discretionary routine lower Colorado River operations and maintenance activities for a period of up to 5 years. Reclamation and the Fish and Wildlife Service have also formed a partnership with other Federal, State and private agencies to develop the Lower Colorado River Multi-Species ConselVation Program. This program permits both non-Federal and Federal parties to participate under Sections 7 and 10 of the Endangered Species Act. The following paragraphs discuss the operation of each ofthe reselVoirs with respect to compact, decree and statutory water delivery obligations, and instream flow needs for maintaining or improving aquatic resources, where appropriate. FonteneUe Reservoir Precipitation and ensuing runoff in the Upper Green River Basin during water year 1999 was above average. The April through July runoffinto FonteneUe during water year 1999 was 1,499 MCM (1.215 MAF) or 143 percent ofnonnal. Inflow peaked at 357 cubic meters per second December 1, 1999 7