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Relationship to Research Program The Flaming Gorge Biological Opinion points out the need to evaluate and refine winter-spring flow recommendations for FGD. This study would provide information in conjunction with other ongoing studies necessary to refine flow recommendations for the winter-spring period. Direct information exchange wiH occur between Study #36 and Overwinter Survival (Study #35). The study will also provide information valuable for the interpretation of results from Assessment of Colorado Squawfish Nursery Habitat in the Green River (Study #33), and The Effects of Overwinter Flow Regulation and Ice on Nursery Habitat (Study #41). Description of Work This study would capitalize on marking methods developed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service-Vernal Field Station to determine the relationship between spring and overwinter flows and Colorado squawfish dispersal and movements. In the proposed study fish captured in five mile subreaches will receive unique batch marks. Fish movement between autumn and spring (prior to spring runoff) will be assessed by recaptures during a spring sample and by concurrent sampling programs being conducted by UDWR and BIOMIEST. If model assumptions can be met a population estimate between fall and spring will be attempted. Study #37. Quantification of the Role of Flaming Gorge Dam in Relation to Other Driving Mechanisms, in Causing Changes in. Aquatic Habitat Avaitabitity on the Green River. Study Goals The primary goal of Study #37 is to reconstruct the recent history of habitat change in the Green River and identify the relative role of FGD in causing those changes Relationship to Research Program The purpose of this research effort is to develop a clear understanding the effect of Flaming Gorge Dam and its operations on the aquatic habitat and floodplain characteristics of the Green River. It is essential that any recommended reservoir releases for Flaming Gorge Dam intended to benefit endangered f+sh species be based on a sound understanding of the relationship of the dam and its operations to ongoing geomorphic processes in the river basin. This study will provide the frame work to identify ongoing trends in the geomorphology of the Green River. As such it is critical for establishing future flow recommendations. Flow recommendations derived from present discharge/habitat relationships will be useful only for the short term unless overall trends in the river system are known. As such this study is broadly applicable throughout the Five Year Flaming Gorge Research package. Flaming Gorge Research Program 26