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,::::> ~ CO") c CHAPTER V STAGE TWO PLAN OF DEVELOPMENT '.-.\ The canals themselves will be recorded as sites and their eligibility to the National Register will be evaluated. Cultural resource considera- tions are not expected to be a significant factor in unit costs. The major changes in the visual quality of the unit area would be along the current alinements of canals and laterals. Concrete lining would replace the present earth canals and associated vegetation. Losses of trees would be particularly noticeable in the valley because arid conditions and farm practices have allowed few trees to grow under existing conditions. Canal rights-of-way have restricted access although local residents use them for recreational activities such as jogging and hunting. These uses would decline with Stage Two development, and remaining users would be exposed to greater safety hazards since the lined canals would be more difficult to escape from than unlined canals. Social Considerations During the late 1970' s and through 1981 the reglOn around Mesa County was heavily impacted by the growth of energy development. Mesa County population increased over the 1970-80 period by 49.9 percent from 54,374 to 81,530. To meet the demand for goods and services, actions were initiated by both the public and private sectors of the economy not only to meet the burgeoning demand but to meet what was anticipated as future demand as well. When the economy began its decline in 1982, much of the development was underway to meet the future needs of energy development. As the various oil shale, oil and gas exploration, and coal production projects began their decline, an excess of housing, transportation, trades, and 57