WY 2005 EA Release Update and Pulse Flow

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WY 2005 EA Release Uudate for EAC/RCC Saring Meetins, Aari120. 2005 FWS staff from the Nebraska ES Field Office, NE Private Lands, and the Denver Regional Office met on February 3, 2005, to discuss the possibilities for implementing an EA pulse release in April/May 2005. After careful consideration of many factors, one of which was the massive planning effort that would be needed between now and April to successfully implement and monitor an EA pulse release, the decision was made to forego implementation of an EA pulse release in 2005. It was decided; however, to actively work toward implementing an EA pulse release in February/March of 2006. Considering current system conditions and constraints, the group concluded that the potential habitat/species benefits from an EA pulse release would be greater in February/March than in April/May (see factors that were considered in the decision process in the attached table). In addition, implementation in 2006 will give the FWS and its partners time to adequately plan and prepare for the operation. In the absence of a Platte River Program, the FWS will once again be relying on the expertise and assistance of our Platte River partners to accomplish the project. It will require substantial coordination and entail primarily voluntary assistance from the involved parties. With a firm commitment to implement an EA pulse in 2006, the FWS anticipates a high level of interest and is hopeful its external and internal partners will be willing to commit their time and/or resources in support of the effort. The FWS has already begun the planning and coordination process which is expected to last to and beyond implementation of the EA pulse release in 2006. The FWS is currently working with USGS on baseline monitoring and will be reconvening the pulse flow planning work group in the near future. The main focus areas, at least initially, will be in developing and refining the following plans. Pulse Flow Implementation Plan Flow Monitoring Plan Habitat Monitoring Plan The FWS plans to disseminate regular updates on EA pulse flow planning. Any questions/comments regarding project planning/progress should be referred to either Sharon Whitmore, 308-382-6468x18, or Jeff Runge, 308-382-6468x22. Based on continued and predicted very dry river conditions and past experience, the FWS does not anticipate augmenting flows during the summer period (May 11 to September 15) or during the remainder of the water year. Current irrigation operations, limited EA volume, and drought limit effective EA augmentation which makes securing the desired benefits for the riverine community difficult to achieve. Water Year 2005 EA Carry-Over in combination with 2006 non-irrigation season EA accuxnulations will provide more than adequate EA volume next spring to implement a beneficial pulse flow event. Sharon B. Whitrnore U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 203 W. Second St., Fed. Bldg. Grand Island, NE 68801 Phone: 3 08-3 82-6468x 18 FAX: 308-384-8835