Laserfiche WebLink
n <br />U <br />of a steep gradient and subsequent high velocity flows. Sande and silts <br />tend to accumulate in slower areas, especially along the stream banks. <br />The instream habitat is generally composed of riffles and runs, with <br />runs predominating. A few pools, or large eddies, are located in the <br />study section, but they are widely scattered and do not represent a <br />significant portion of the habitat. <br />The river in the study section is very sinuous, meandering through an <br />alluvial valley bordered by steep canyon walls. Riparian vegetation is <br />abundant and is primarily composed of willow (Salix sp.), reed grass <br />• (Phragmites sp.) and sedges (Scirpus sp. and Carex ap.). The river is <br />generally surrounded by cultivated fields, primarily hay and pasture. <br />Flow in the river in the study section generally peaks in June and <br />reaches its lowest points in November and December. High flows normally <br />range from 3000 to 4000 cfs and low flows from 200 to 350 cfs. The <br />lowest flow on record at the Rangely USGS gauging station xas 62 cfs on <br />July f3 and 14, 1977. <br />Water temperature in the river varies from a low of 0 degrees C in the <br />xinter to a high of near 20 degrees C in July and August. Warmer <br />temperatures can be found in backwaters during the summer. Turbidity is <br />very high during spring runoff and after rainstorms; otherwise, the <br />• river is relatively clear. <br />II . G-7 <br />