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had suggested that over the long term the river may not have been in equilibrium pre-Flaming Gorge. From his analysis of post-reservoir aerial photos, Lyons et al. (1992) concluded that channel narrowing was essentially complete by 1974. This statement conflicted with Andrews conclusions that adjustment of the channel width downstream of the Jensen gage was incomplete in 1978. The overall conclusion drawn by Lyons et al. (1992) was that channel changes initiated by the construction of Flaming Gorge Dam occurred soon after operation of the reservoir began. Recent work indicates that channel narrowing is continuing in this reach (FLO 1996). Stanford (1994) introduced a few concepts to guide instream flow studies. He indicated that the relationship between channel flows and flooded bottomlands should be assessed through the response of the system to a range of discharges and sediment loads. Flooded bottomlands should not be evaluated with a simple stage-area relationship. Flushing flows are needed to scour sediment and vegetation from low velocity habitats. Conversely, flushing flows may actually degrade the channel and further reduce flood frequency owing to reduced sediment loads in the system. If peak flows are unsuccessful in creating diverse habitat and complex channel features that passively retain drifting larvae, then the larvae can be swept out of the nursery habitat by the high flows. Occasional flows approaching the flood of record are required to reform and integrate the full suite of channel and floodplain features. Stanford stated that peak flows should approximate the range and frequency of pre-reservoir events. Another recommendation by Stanford was that no further depletion of flows delivering water to the Yampa Canyon should occur suggesting no future depletion of Little Snake River flows would be acceptable. 44