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The objective of this study is to investigate the technical,'f nancial,and institutional k <br /> aspects of a limited number of alternative dam and reservoir configurations to identify <br /> A V`,,¢ <br /> any fatal flaws that could make the construction of a dam and reservoir at this site <br /> infeasible. While the technical problems that may be encountered are difficult to <br /> determine at this time, the feasibility study will clarify potential problems and the extent <br /> to which they can be resolved. <br /> The value of a dam and reservoir at this site has previously been established(Western La <br /> Plata County Water Management and Conservation Plan) and is multi-faceted. A Long <br /> Hollow dam will have statewide significance through: <br /> • improving administration of the La Plata River Compact with New Mexico <br /> (C.R.S. § 37-63-101, et seq. ), <br /> • improving deliveries thereunder to New Mexico, <br /> • allowing additional Colorado water to be used within Colorado for irrigation and <br /> other uses, and <br /> • lessening the potential for interstate Compact litigation (New Mexico reported to <br /> threaten litigation on an annual basis as a result of alleged problems-in <br /> Colorado's delivery of Compact regulated water). <br /> Construction of this dam and reservoir can be expected to improve the currently <br /> inadequate water supplies in this basin. <br /> The scope of the feasibility study of the proposed Long Hollow dam and reservoir, <br /> separated into phases, will be as follows: <br /> Phase I—Initial Feasibility (Fatal Flaw)Analysis <br /> • Review existing data to obtain an understanding of the requirements for design / <br /> and construction of a dam and reservoir. <br /> • Collect data necessary to allow analysis of site topography. <br /> • Conduct a geologic reconnaissance study of the dam and reservoir area and map <br /> the geology, including conditions that may impact design and construction. <br /> • Analyze hydrologic data to determine feasibility of maintaining needed water in / <br /> storage. <br /> • Review alternatives in the context of institutional issues. <br /> o Determine NEPA requirements for the project. <br /> o Determine the potential for Threatened&Endangered Species issues to <br /> impact the feasibility of the project. <br /> o Evaluate the potential for wetland issues to impact the feasibility of the / <br /> project. <br /> o Determine the extent of potential impacts to cultural resources. <br /> 11 <br />