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34<1 ;\ . r.~! October 29, 1982 Page 6 8. Habitat for endangered species within the development area will not significantly deteriorate because none exist. The State of Colorado threatened species, the Colorado River cutthroat trout, were introduced into high mountain lakes by the Colorado Division of Wildlife (DOW) , but these species are now hybrids with rainbow trout. No critical habitats have been designated by DOW in this project area. Finally, minimum stream flows required by USFS will protect maintenance of this aquatic life. (DEIS, p.4-18) 9. Public outdoor recreation will not significantly deteriorate because the only surface evidence of the diversion project will be four diversion sites covering small areas in remote locations and heavily screened. from view. Minimum stream flows for fish protection as well as esthetic benefit will protect visibility values downstream from the diversions while at the same time accretion flows from downstream tributaries and springs will increase the volume of flow. (See DEIS p.4-19) At the mouth of Cross Creek, stream flow will be reduced by 42% during June, the peak month. During the diversion season, the Eagle River at Dowd's Junction will be reduced by 12%. Such reductions during the peak periods will not impair the recreational or esthetic uses of these streams. (DEIS, p.4-10) 10. Unique areas of geologic, historic or archaeological importance will not significantly deteriorate since none have been identified (see DEIS pp.3-17, 3.13). r) The proposed development will not significantly degrade existing natural scenic characteristics since the diversion structures will be constructed of natural materials, will release continuously a minimum stream flow and will be remote from view (even in a remote high mountain environment). No noise or obnoxious odors will occur from this gravity flow system. (DEIS, p.4-21) s) The proposed development will not create any undue financial burden on existing or future residents within the development area since no residents live within the U.S. Forest Service lands. Impacts among nearby communities will be mostly upon Leadville, from which the carpools and bus delivery are expected to originate. No adverse financial burden upon Leadville is anticipated. No significant adverse financial burden is expected upon the residents of the source develop- ment area. No interference with the existing and senior water rights of Minturn are expected.