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<br />-30- <br /> <br /> <br />suspected that predation by non-native species on the young of the <br />four endemic species may be another reason for this decline in <br />numbers. <br />Since the Yampa River is one of the last remaining areas in the upper <br />Colorado drainage that still has reproducing populations of Colorado <br />River squawfish, razorback suckers, and possibly humpback chubs, <br />this stream should be protected from change to the greatest extent <br />possible until their ecological requirements and "critical habitat" <br />needs can be established. Since final determinations have not been <br />made on the criticality of certain stream reaches to the survival of <br />these fishes, the Bureau of Reclamation should officially initiate <br />consultation with the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service with a view <br />towards planning and carrying out the studies necessary for such a <br />determination. Also, detailed studies should be undertaken to specifi- <br />tally determine whether the impacts of development of the Savery-Pot <br />Hook would have a significant adverse effect on these four species of <br />fish and their habitat. <br />Pursuant to the responsibilities placed on all Federal agencies under <br />the Endangered Species Act of 1973 to protect endangered species <br />and their habitat, a final Environmental Impact Statement cannot be <br />satisfactorily completed on this project, nor should any construction <br />start until: (1) a better understanding of the ecological requirements <br /> <br />