WSP03098

• File Number: 8200.765
• Description: White River General
• State: CO
• Basin: Yampa/White
• Water Division: 6
• Date: 10/1/1979
• Author: David E Fleming
• Title: Environmental Assessment Report - Rangely Project - Taylor Draw Reservoir
• Water Supply Pro - Doc Type: Report/Study

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VI. THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN LOCAL SHORT-TERM USE OF
THE ENVIRONMENT AND THE MAINTENANCE AND ENHANCEMENT
OF LONG-TERM PRODUCTIVITY

The effect of the short-term use on the environment is: the
disturbance of the soil and vegetation in the immediate path of
construction; the temporary inconvenience to users of CSH 64; the
temporary departure of big game. birds. and small animals from the
vicinity during construction; the loss of homes and means of liveli-
hood during relocation of four resident families; the loss of agri-
cultural income to the county's economy from 600 acres; and the
change of a small portion of a rural river valley to a dam and
reservoir.

Completion of Taylor Draw Dam and Reservoir will provide a
greatly enhanced capability for long-term productivity. The supply-
ing of irrigation waters for new and supplemental irrigation will
permit increased production of hay. pasture. and livestock. This
would boost the local economy and. in addition. raise the real
value of the farms and ranches. Municipal water from the project
will give Rangely a significant supply of good quality water at a
reasonable price. The availability of a dependable supply of water
for industrial use could allow development of the Moon Lake thermo-
electric plant or any of several oil-shale. other power plants. or
coal developments.

By providing needed water to industry. irrigation. and muni-
cipal uses. the dam and reservoir will increase the local economy
with new employment opportunities. increased valuation of business
and residential properties. increased mineral production and greater
tax revenue to Rangely. Rio Blanco County. State of Colorado, and

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