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1996 ANNUAL PROPAGATION OPERATION PLAN <br />UPPER COLORADO RIVER BASIN RECOVERY PROGRAM <br />I. Relation of Propagation to the Recovery Program <br />The "Recovery Program for Endangered Fish Species in the Upper <br />Colorado River Basin" (Recovery Program) was developed in 1987 (U.S. <br />Fish and Wildlife Service 1987) and implemented in 1988. One of five <br />elements in the Recovery Program is "native fish stocking". The goal <br />of that element is to propagate endangered fishes to meet the needs of <br />the Recovery Program. <br />The Biology Committee recognizes that propagation and stocking of <br />endangered fishes are important fishery management tools with a <br />definite and useful functions. These tools are not considered <br />substitutes for removing or significantly reducing factors that are <br />limiting natural recruitment for recovery (i.e., development of self- <br />sustaining populations). <br />The Recovery Action Plan (RIPRAP) identifies actions to be carried out <br />regarding genetics, propagation, and stocking of endangered fishes in <br />the Upper Colorado River Basin (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 1993). <br />Program guidance for Fiscal Year 1996 is outlined in U.S. Fish and <br />Wildlife Service (1995). <br />II. Reasons for Propagation of Endangered Fishes <br />Propagation of endangered fishes for the Recovery Program includes: <br />1. holding fish in refuges to protect them from potential catastrophic <br />loss , <br />2. broodstock development, <br />3. experimental augmentation or restoration stocking, <br />4. rearing fish for research, and <br />5. providing fish for information and education programs. <br />III. Recovery Program Philosophy and Goals Regarding Genetics Conservation <br />PHILOSOPHY AND MISSION <br />To maintain the genetic integrity of wild and captive-reared <br />endangered fishes in the Upper Colorado River Basin to prevent <br />irreversible losses of genetic diversity that may result from <br />management interventions or lack of action. <br />GENETICS CONSERVATION GOALS <br />1. To prevent immediate extinction of any endangered Colorado River <br />fish stocks.