WSP02035 - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

,. I V\~ ::5 II '-t'1't , ,J Characteristics of a Healthy Reservoir system The area of consideration encompasses the Colorado River from Lake Powell to Mexico, with emphasis on the operation of Glen Canyon and Hoover Dams. 1. Stable reservoirs, maintaininq aquatic habitat, riparian and near-shore habitat, wetlands Monthly fluctuations affect numerous aquatic values. Reactions to changing levels should be evaluated from the viewpoint of aquatic health, especially riparian and near-shore impacts. Estimates should be made of the relative value of expected riparian conditions at various reservoir levels and with various ranges of elevation changes within each year. Reauired Model Outouts Monthly reservoir levels Amount of habitat at various reservoir levels (HEP or similar method, GIS mapping, species populations) Safety concerns related to reservoir levels ~Scenic and aesthetic considerations 2. Fluctuating reservoir levels (long-term), more productive for aquatic species Long-term fluctuations change the productivity of the reservoir. by drying out and reinundating habitat areas. It is believed that this cycle is beneficial. Long-term changes can be evaluated with annual elevation changes. Trade offs exist between species from these changes. Qualitative discussion of impacts would likely be the product from this evaluation. Reauired Model Outouts Monthly reservoir levels Time factor in drawdown cycles 3. Maintain biodiversity, includinq both native and sport fishery The health of the ecosystem depends on maintaining its ecological biodiversity. Expected impacts of various water management options should be evaluated or estimated. Reauired MOdel Outouts Monthly reservoir levels Amount of habitat at various reservoir levels Understanding of tradeoffs between species Time factor in drawdowns Baseline data or inventory of key species