8279

• UCREFRP Catalog Number: 8279
• Author: Brown and Caldwell.
• Title: Phase 1 Coordinated Facilities Water Availability Study for the Endangered Fishes of the Upper Colorado River.
• USFW Year: 2000.
• USFW - Doc Type: \
• Copyright Material: NO

2.2.3.2 Effect on Existing Projects' Operations and Maintenance Costs
Effects of alternatives on existing projects' operations and maintenance costs have been
completed in Phase 1 and are included in the evaluation and screening criteria (see Table 1).
Analysis in Phase 2 will focus on quantifying these effects.
2.2.3.3 Effect on Existing Projects Operational Flexibility or Reliability
Effects of alternatives on existing project operational flexibility or reliability have been estimated
and are included in the evaluation and screening criteria (see Table 1). As indicated above,
analysis in Phase 2 will focus on quantifying these effects.
2.2.4 RIPRAP Alternatives
The feasibility of expanding or modifying certain of the RIPRAP alternatives as listed in the
PBO and the Recovery Implementation Program (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, April 1, 1999)
was considered and these alternatives were investigated. Yield available from a specific
modification and/or expansion of the RIPRAP alternatives will be counted toward meeting the
20,000 acre-feet target if (1) this yield was in addition to the yield of the original RIPRAP
alternative and (2) the modified/expanded alternative would not diminish the yield of the original
RIPRAP alternative.
2.2.5 Incentives for Participation
Participation in actions identified in the PBO is voluntary. The PBO examines both existing and
future depletions on the Colorado River and its tributaries upstream of the confluence of the
Gunnison River associated with Federal, State, and private projects which rely on, or will rely
on, the Recovery Program RAP. The Service believes that these Recovery Action Plan items are
sufficient to avoid the likelihood of jeopardy and/or adverse modification of critical habitat from
(1) depletions occurring as of September 30, 1995 from existing individual projects, and
(2) future depletions up to 120,000 acre-feet/year. Individual Section 7 consultation will still be
required on specific Federal actions, pursuant to the Endangered Species Act, to determine if
they fit under the umbrella of the PBO. Federal Projects which deplete water above the 15-Mile
Reach are exempt from further consultation on their depletion impacts. The following criteria
must be met at the time of individual project consultation to rely on the Recovery Program and
be considered under the umbrella of the PBO:
1. A Recovery Agreement must be signed prior to the issuance of a final biological opinion
for an individual project.
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