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L() , C'-J CJ 'C> ~'J (:) diversity of species than unprotected areas and can be very productive wildlife areas. Acquisition of bottom land would also help preserve winter habitat for the bald eagle. The net result would be a diverse wildlife population which would be both self sustaining and sufficient to support hunting use in the area. As river woodland habitat was acquired and developed for wildlife under Stage One, many beneficial purposes would be served by providing for the protection and management of these areas for hunters, fishermen, and general recreationists. While this acquisition,would not replace losses of pheasant hunting in the Stage One area, it would create additional waterfowl hunting and other wildlife-oriented recreation experiences. Because the peregrine falcon and the whooping crane, both Federally listed endangered species, are not dependent on any habitats that might be altered by the Stage One development, impacts upon the species are not expected. Acquired river woodland habitat would provide and pre- serve winter habitat for the endangered bald eagle. The endangered fish species in the Colorado River in the Grand Valley and downstream would not be impacted by Stage One construction because of the insignificant changes in flows and water quality in the river. S. Canal Hazards to Health and Safety Pipe laterals and safety features constructed along the Government Highline Canal, such as fencing and escape ladders, would reduce the possibility of drowning. If, however, persons were able to get into the canals despite these safety features, the chances of injury or drowning would be greater because of higher velocities and increased difficulty in climbing concrete banks. The reduction of marsh areas resulting from reduced canal and lateral seepage would aid mosquito control. 6. Recreation The Stage One development should not alter the use of Highline Lake. Hunting and other wildlife-oriented recreation would be reduced in parts of the Stage One area, but increased use on the wildlife lands acquired and developed would offset this loss. 7. Agricultural Chemicals Lining the canal and enclosing 'the laterals in the Stage One area would reduce the vegetative growth around those facilities and would decrease the need to use herbicides along ditch banks and in seep areas. The use of chemicals to control aquatic plants would be less because increased velocities in the canal would decrease the buildup of moss and "_I.