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Projected Plan For 1994 operations, three reservoir unregulated inflow scenarios were developed and analyzed and are labelcd as probable maximum, most probable, and probable minimum. The National Weatber Service Extended Streamflow Prediction (ESP) computer model uses current basin conditions as well as historical data to predict the range of possible future streamflows. The ESP model was employed to develop each inflow scenario, based on current soil moisture conditions within the basin. Although there is a wide confidence band associated with streamflow forecasts made a year in advance, the data are valuable in analyzing the possible im pacts on project uses and purposes. Due to the above average year that was experienced in 1993, the soil moisture deficit has been erased and therefore the magnitude of inflows in the three scenarios are equal to the historical upper decile, mean, and lower decile (10 percent exceedance, 50 percent exceedance, and 90 percent exceedance, respectively) for each reservoir. Based on the ESP model results, three different hydrologic scenarios were developed for each reservoir. The volume of inflow resulting from these assumptions was used as input into Reclamation's monthly reservoir simulation model. This model is used to plan reservoir operations for the upcoming 12-month period. Projected water year 1994 inflow and September 30, 1993, reservoir storage conditions were used as input to this model and monthly releases were adjusted until release and storage levels accomplished project purposes and priorities. Minimum instream flow levels have been established at several locations in the Colorado River Basin which are intended to preserve the aquatic resources downstream of specific dams. The regulation of the Colorado River has had both positive and negative effects on aquatic resources. Controlled cool water releases from dams have provided for increased productivity of some aquatic resources and the development of significant sport fisheries. However, the same releases may be detrimental to endangered and other native species of fishes. Consultations with the Fish and Wildlife Service in compliance with Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act (Section 7 consultations) on the operation of the Aspinall Unit on the Gunnison River, Navajo Dam on the San Juan River, and on flaming Gorge on the Green River will continue in 1994. Studies associated with these consultations will be used to beller understand the flow related needs of endangered and other native species of fish. Additionally, interim flow restrictions on releases from Lake Powell will continue in water year 1994 until a Record of Decision is made on the Glen Canyon Dam Environmental Impact Statement (GCDEIS). Modifications to planned operations may be made based on changes in forecast conditions. However, due to the Recovery Implementation Programs for Endangered Fish Species in the Upper Colorado River Basin, Section 7 consultations, and other downstream concerns, modification to the monthly operation plans may not be based solely on changes in streamflow forecasts. Decisions on spring peak releases and downstream habitat target flows may be made midway through the runoff season. Reclamation and the Fish and Wildlife Service will initiate meetings with interested parties, including representatives of the basin states, to facilitate the decisions necessary to fmalize site specific operations plans. All operations will be undertaken subject to the primary water storage and delivery requirements established by "The Law of the River", including Endangered Species Act compliance and other applicable statutes. There is a reasonable expectation that mainstem consum ptive use in the Lower Division States will not exceed 9.25 billion cubic meters (7.5 million acre-feet) in 1994. It is therefore expected that all reasonable beneficial consumptive use needs of the Lower Colorado mainstem users will be met in 1994. 4