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GREEN RIVER STUDY PLAN 34 February 2,2007 canyons to evaluate the effects of flow and temperature recommendations on the fish communities in those areas. Although Reach 3 is too far downstream from Flaming Gorge Dam for effective flow regulation, it should be determined if flows to benefit endangered fish in Reaches 1 and 2 also benefit nonnative fish in Reach 3. Nonnative fish in floodplains and backwaters are also important concerns that need to be further investigated to determine if flows and temperatures can be managed to affect various life stages of these invasive species and to ensure that management of these habitats does not exacerbate the threat of nonnative fish. Recommended studies fall into two subject areas: (1) the influence of flow and temperature on life history components of nonnative fish, and (2) spillway entrainment rates. 6: Determine the influence of flow and temperature recommendations on nonnative fish life history components in lower Reach 1 and upper Reach 2. Description This study should evaluate the effect of recommended flows and temperatures on the life history of particularly problematic nonnative fish species (e.g., smallmouth bass and northern pike). Ongoing Project 115 should be continued and revised, as needed, to evaluate the effects of recommended flows and temperatures in lower Reach 1 and upper Reach 2 on nonnative fish. Information from other studies and available data should be integrated and synthesized to determine the effects of flow and temperature on species life histories (timing and controls on spawning, hatching, swim-up, etc). The data should be evaluated to identify opportunities for managing nonnative fish using Flaming Gorge Dam releases. Hypotheses to Be Evaluated'and Information Needs to Be Filled · Response of nonnative fish populations to spring peak flows in Reach 1 and upper Reach 2 (U2). · Effect of base flows and release temperatures on nonnative fish populations in Reach 1 and upper Reach 2 (U4). · The effects of flow and temperature recommendations on life histories of nonnative fish (information need). · Operations that optimize flow and temperatures to maximize benefit to endangered fish and minimize benefit to nonnative fish (information need). Implementation · Ongoing Project 115. -Project 115 is an ongoing study that examines the response of the fish community in lower Reach 1 and upper Reach 2 to flow and temperature recommendations and is currently scheduled to continue through 2007. The study should be revised as needed to continue through 2009, and address the uncertainties and information needs identified above.