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Bluehead sucker Bluehead suckers tend to occur more frequently in the upper reaches of the San Juan River and occur both upstream and downstream of Farrnington. Propst (1999) reported them as comparatively common in the San Juan River system. Ryden (2000) indicated that during the period of testing recommended flows, there was an overall improvement for this species in the San Juan. This may be related to maintenance of cobble areas which provide feeding habitat. Based on results of the test t1ows, it is anticipated that this species will benefit from the proposed action. The exception to this may be in areas between Farmington and Navajo Dam that will have significant flow reductions in summer and fall months, reducing water quality and perhaps reducing the quality of cobble feeding areas. Mottled sculDin Ryden (2000) reported collections of mottled sculpin between River Mi.les 155 and 178 in the San Juan River. Miller and Rees (2000) reports the species as common to abundant in the Animas River and tributaries upstream from Navajo Reservoir. They were also common in the upper LaPlata River. The species is less common in New Mexico and Propst (1999) reported the species may warrant state protection. More natural flows and maintenance of channel conditions may benefit this species under the proposed alternative. Northern leooard frOg This frog is associated with wetlands and waterways along the San Juan River. Reduced summer flows between Navajo Dam and Farmington under the preferred alternative may adversely affect its 'habitat, particularly in the extensive wetlands just downstream from Navajo Dam. Water supply to these wetlands will be reduced when summer releases from Navajo Dam are reduced from 500 to 250 cfs. Bighorn sheeo Bighorn sheep or often associated with river canyons. The sheep can utilize rivers for drinking water and some use of riparian areas can occur. There is no indication thaI this species would be affected by river flow changes under the proposed plan. Alcove rock daisv This species occurs in southeastern Utah and is reported from the canyons of the Colorado River from its confluence with the Dolores River on the north to San Juan County on the south. The species grows in alcove sites in sandstone cliffs that receive little direct sunlight and in sites with drier conditions (Utah Div. of Wildlife Resources, 1998). Habitat of this species would not be affected by project alternatives. 26 00692