7313 - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

vironmental and recreational impacts of the operations of Glen Canyon Dam, The initial phase of the technical work was completed in 1988. Upon review by DOl, it was determined that additional data was required on the impacts oflow and fluctuating flows before any conclusions could be made. A second phase ofthe GeES was directed to begin in Novem- ber of 1988, Subsequent public and congressional comment and concern led to a review of the matter by the Secretary of the Interior. Upon review, the Secretary determined that the Glen Canyon Dam Environmental Impact Statement (GCD EIS) should be prepared. The Bureau of Reclamation (Reclamation) was directed on July 27, 1989 to undertake that process. Reclamation was designated the lead agency, with other agencies to be- come cooperating agencies as required for their expertise, From an original list of four operating agencies, the list has now grown to ten including: Reclamation (lead agency), Bureau ofIndian Affairs, National Park Service, U .S, Fish and Wildlife Service (Interior Department); Western Area Power Administration (Department of Energy); Arizona Game and Fish De- partment (State of Arizona); Havasupai Indian Tribe, Hopi Indian Tribe, Hualapai Indian Tribe, Navajo Nation (Indian Tribes). The primary objective of the GCD EIS, as stated in the GCD EIS Management Plan, is to evaluate the impacts of current and alternative dam operations on the downstream environment and ecological resources of the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area and Grand Canyon Na- tional Park. The alternative dam operations to be examined will range from those that emphasize the potential to conserve and maintain the downstream resources to those that emphasize peaking power produc- tion. The EIS will identify and quantify, to the fullest extent possible, the benefits, values and application of the dam and the resources affected by the dam, including, but not limited to, water supply, water quality, rec- reation, cultural resources, hydroelectric power generation, and fish and wildlife (including threatened and endangered species), in light of the statutory responsibilities of the Secretary of the Interior. The focus of the EIS is to evaluate alternative operations of the dam. In addition, other mitigation measures may be identified to minimize impacts to resources of concern. Alternative dam operations and poten- tial structural and institutional mitigation measures will be considered to formulate the range of reasonable alternatives. 35