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OULJ;:i~ Alternative No.4, to build nothing, would result in a poten- tial economic loss of revenues to the Curecanti Unit by re- stricting the operation of Morrow Point Powerplant and no Crystal generating unit. Alternative sources for replacing the power would be from coal-fired steam plants or other existing power systems. There are environmental objections to steam plants with respect to air and thermal pollution that are not found in hydroelectric plants. Power from out- side sources would have to be purchased above the CRSP rate of 6 mills at approximately 8 mills. This higher rate could jeopardize project repayment. Further, there does not appear to be any likelihood of economical reallocation of capacity in any of the Reclamation reservoirs with generation facili- ties in the Storage Project area to replace the power. The alternative of no development at the Crystal site must consider investments at Morrow Point and Crystal which have already been made. It is estimated that approximately $14,000,000 has been invested in enlarged capacity at Morrow Point, in investigations of the Crystal site, and in permanent facilities at Crystal. This would be a sunk cost should the Crystal development be abandoned. The esthetics of the canyon would be preserved in their present condition for the few who attempt the limited access. The stream fishery in the lower reach of the river in the vicinity of Crystal damsite should remain excellent. At the upper end near Morrow Point, how- ever, studies now indicate that the colder water being re- leased at Morrow Point is below the optimum recommended for acceptable trout habitat. The extent of its effect downstream has not been determined. D. Relationship Between Local Short-term Uses of Man's Environ- ment and the Maintenance and Enhancement of Long-term Produc tivity The facilities of the Curecanti Unit, including the Crystal Dam, Reservoir, and Powerplant have been designed to utilize the total hydraulic head of the Gunnison River between the upstream boundary of Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Monument and elevation 7,520 (the maximum reservoir level at Blue Mesa Reservoir) as provided by the CRSP authorizing legislation. The purpose of this development is to provide long-term economic benefits to the residents of the Upper Colorado River Basin. The power revenues realized will facilitate construction of multipurpose projects to more efficiently utilize the limited water resources of the basin. The projects are diversified throughout the region so that economic stability and long-term growth will be encouraged in the entire basin. 17