Upper Colorado River Stakeholder Group Conceptual Plan for a Wild and Secnic Management Alternative June 30 2009

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June 30, 2008 II. Benefit to Stream Segments An RICD in Gore Canyon as a stand alone tool, or enhanced with an augmentation plan, would provide a mechanism to secure flows for the ORVs in these segments. III. Permanent Flow Protection A decreed RICD water right would provide permanent protection. IV. Permanent Flow Protection Pros • RICDs provide a legal means for permanent protection of flows for recreation ORVs. With augmentation, RICDs could provide flows need for ORVs, not just the minimum values typically afforded through CWCB ISF rights. • See Pros for Concept 4a. Cons • RICDs have been controversial. • Diversion structures are costly to construct. • Due to statutory limits, a stand -alone RICD may not be able to protect flow regime that allows the value to continue to be "outstandingly remarkable ". • Adding a RICD structure to the river may be in conflict with protection of ORVs. 12. RIVER DISTRICT APPROPRIATION OF WATER FOR FISH PRESERVATION I. Basic Concept The Colorado Revised Statutes Title 37 Article 46 is the founding legislation creating the Colorado River Water Conservation District (River District). Under the River District's legislation of General Powers: 0) To file upon and hold for the use of the public sufficient water of any natural stream to maintain a constant stream flow in the amount necessary to preserve fish and to use such water in connection with retaining ponds for the propagation offish for the benefit of the public The general concept would be for the River District to apply for some amount of water to protect the fishery that would be sufficient to protect and enhance the ORVs in the designated reach. The water right could be a combination of storage and /or in stream flows, subject to possible conveyance to the CWCB. Any stored water could be delivered on an agreed upon schedule and rate. II. Benefit to the Stream Segments A River District ISF right could offer the segment protection by preserving a minimum flow or enhance the flows within the designated reach or delivery area to provide more consistent suitable flows for the fishery. .