Letter to Robert Williams April 15 1993 Comments on Proposed Determination of Critical Habitat for the Razorback Sucker

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Mr. Robert Williams April 15, 1993 Page 3 o Existing Recovery Initiatives. The cooperative initiatives to recover the four endangered fishes deserve consideration in the proposed rule for several reasons. First, they are relevant in characterizing the current status and future prospect of the species. Second, they include commitments by federal and state governments and several Tribes to protect necessary water resources under state or tribal laws, and to allow water development to proceed in accordance with applicable interstate compacts and federal laws. Furthermore, these existing initiatives are in the process of identifying essential elements of habitat needed to recover these fishes and providing long term protection under appropriate provisions of federal, state and tribal law. These factors appear relevant in the economic analysis. In conclusion, the State of Colorado remains concerned that an adequate opportunity for public review and comment has not been provided. The court order in Colorado Wildlife Federation v. Turner and the applicable federal regulations afford the Service sufficient latitude to extend the public comment period based upon the complexity of both the issues and the information relevant to the proposed action. The proposed 60 day period for review of the biologic and economic analyses does not seem adequate, based on currently available information. Therefore, we urge that all pertinent information be made available in a readily accessible format and that adequate time be allowed for public review and comment prior to finalization of the rule by the Service. We look forward to working cooperatively with the Service and other Recovery Program participants to develop a rule that serves the needs of the endangered fish and allows Colorado to protect its compact apportioned waters. Thank you again for the opportunity to submit these comments. Sincerely, Ken Salazar Executive Director cc: Governor Romer Colorado Water Conservation Board Colorado Wildlife Commission Endangered Fish Recovery Program Participants gtoav9.lrr