Common use of Recovery Actions Clause in Contracts

Recovery Actions. A variety of recovery actions are planned, ongoing, or completed for the Colorado River. Numerous approaches are being taken to restore flows in the 15-mile reach immediately upstream of from the confluence of the Gunnison River to levels recommended by the Service. Reclamation has made available 5,000 acre-feet of water annually plus an additional 5,000 acre-feet in four of every five years from Ruedi Reservoir to augment flows in the 15-mile reach during July, August, and September. In addition, water is available from the lease of 10,825 acre-feet/year of water from Ruedi Reservoir and permanent commitment of 10,825 acre-feet/year from East and West slope water users. The East and West slope commitments were secured in 2000 by Memoranda of Agreement (MOA) with the Colorado River Water Conservation District (CRWCD) and Denver Water for delivery of 5,412 acre-feet of water from Xxxxxxx Mountain Reservoir and 5,412 acre-feet from Xxxxxxxx Fork Reservoir, respectively. By 2009, CRWCD and Denver Water will have a plan in place to permanently replace the water now being delivered by Xxxxxxx and Xxxxxxxx Fork reservoirs. Additional water is being provided through an MOA with CRWCD for delivery of up to 6,000 acre-feet of water from Xxxxxxx Mountain Reservoir. In 1992, Colorado filed an application in State water court for a 581 cubic feet per second (cfs) instream-flow right in the 15-mile reach for the months of July, August, and September. A final decree was issued in 1997. Colorado filed for a junior instream- flow right for the 15-Mile Reach in December 1995, which was opposed in State water court. As a result of concerns expressed by the Service and other Recovery Program participants, CWCB withdrew the baseflow and recovery flow instream-flow filings on the Colorado and Yampa rivers. With the approval of the PBO for the upper Colorado River upstream of the Gunnison River confluence, CDOW staff was instructed by CWCB to develop new methodologies and flow recommendations. The Recovery Program and CWCB will reevaluate the need for instream-flow filings 5 years as called for in the PBO. Flow recommendations and protection for the Colorado River downstream from the confluence of the Gunnison River will be addressed following completion of the Biological Opinion on reoperation of the Aspinall Unit. Other sources of water for the 15-mile reach include construction of the Grand Valley Water Management Project and operation of Federal and private projects. A study of options for providing additional water primarily to augment spring peak flows was completed in 2003. Water users are exploring ways to increase participation in the expanded coordinated reservoir operations (CROS) as recommended in the study report and completed a CROS implementation plan in February 2006. Reclamation has constructed fish passage at the GVIC and GVP diversion dams on the upper Colorado River. Construction of passage at the Price-Stubb diversion dam is scheduled for FY 2007-2008. Successfully providing fish passage at these diversion dams would benefit both Colorado pikeminnow and razorback sucker by providing access to approximately 50 miles of the river that was used historically by these fishes. To prevent entrainment of endangered fishes into diversion canals, fish screens have been constructed at GVIC and at the Grand Valley Project. To restore floodplain habitats, levees have been breached to at 3 sites (46 acres) and ten properties acquired in perpetual easement or fee title to protect 394 acres. Active control of smallmouth bass began in 2004. Operation of the fish barrier net at Highline Reservoir has been ongoing since 1999; the net was replaced in March 2006. CDOW began a study to determine the source of centrarchid fishes in 2003. Razorback sucker and bonytail are being stocked in the Colorado River in accordance with the integrated stocking plan (Xxxxxx et al. 2003).

Recovery Actions. A variety of recovery actions are planned, ongoing, or completed for the Colorado River. Numerous approaches are being taken to restore flows in the 15-mile reach immediately upstream of from the confluence of the Gunnison River to levels recommended by the Service. Reclamation has made available 5,000 acre-feet of water annually plus an additional 5,000 acre-feet in four 4 out of every five 5 years from Ruedi Reservoir to augment flows support flow augmentation in the 15-mile reach during July, August, and September. In addition, water is made available from by the lease leases for release of 10,825 acre-feet/year of water from Ruedi Reservoir and the permanent commitment dedication of 10,825 acre-feet/year from East Colorado Water Division Number 5 facilities will be delivered and West slope water usersprotected to the 15- mile reach during the late summer period. The East and West slope commitments were secured in 2000 by Memoranda of Agreement (MOA) with the Colorado River Water Conservation District (CRWCD) and Denver Water were executed in 2000 for the delivery of 5,412 acre-feet of water from Xxxxxxx Mountain Reservoir and 5,412 acre-feet from Xxxxxxxx Fork Reservoir, respectively. By 2009, CRWCD and Denver Water will have a plan in place to permanently replace the water now being delivered by Xxxxxxx and Xxxxxxxx Fork reservoirs. These agreements will accommodate environmental commitments agreed to by Reclamation in the Environmental Impact Statement on Round II sales and any constraints of the reservoir’s authorizing legislation. Additional water is being provided through an MOA with CRWCD for delivery of up to 6,000 acre-feet of water from Xxxxxxx Mountain Reservoir. In 1992, Colorado filed an application in State water court for a 581 cubic feet per second (cfs) instream-flow right in the 15-mile reach for the months of July, August, and September. A final decree was issued in 1997. Colorado filed for a junior instream- instream-flow right for the 15-Mile Reach in December 1995, which was opposed in State water court. As a result of concerns expressed by the Service and other Recovery Program participants, CWCB withdrew the baseflow and recovery flow instream-flow filings on the Colorado and Yampa rivers. With the approval of the PBO for the upper Colorado River upstream of the Gunnison River confluence, CDOW staff was has been instructed by CWCB to develop new methodologies and flow recommendations. The current methodology for instream-flow filings may not apply to warm-water rivers. Based upon these developments, the Recovery Program’s Management Committee has agreed that the need for further instream-flow filings will be evaluated every 5 years. Beginning in 2005, the Recovery Program and CWCB will reevaluate review CDOW's new flow recommendations and the performance progress of the PBO. On completion of this review, a determination will be made regarding the instream-flow protection needs for the endangered fishes. During the fourth year (2004) of the first 5-year period, the Recovery Program and CWCB will develop a process for assessing the need for further instream-flow filings 5 years as called protection for in the PBOendangered fishes. Flow recommendations and protection for the Colorado River downstream from the confluence of the Gunnison River will be addressed following completion of the Biological Opinion on reoperation of the Aspinall Unit. Other sources of water for the 15-mile reach include construction of the Grand Valley Water Management Project and operation of Federal and private projects. A study of options for providing additional water primarily to augment spring peak flows was will be completed in 2003. Water users are exploring ways to increase participation in the expanded coordinated reservoir operations (CROS) as recommended in the study report and completed a CROS implementation plan in February 2006. Reclamation has constructed a fish passage at the GVIC and GVP diversion dams on dam, is preparing the upper Colorado River. Construction of environmental assessment for a passage structure at the Price-Stubb diversion dam is scheduled dam, and has initiated plans for FY 2007-2008passage at the Grand Valley Project on the upper Colorado River. Successfully providing fish passage at these diversion dams would benefit both Colorado pikeminnow and razorback sucker by providing access to approximately 50 miles of the river that was used historically by these fishes. To prevent entrainment of endangered fishes into diversion canals, a fish screens have screen has been constructed at GVIC and at is planned for the Grand Valley Project. To restore Four floodplain habitats, levees sites on the Colorado River have been breached to restored: a gravel pit at 3 sites 00 0/0 Xxxx in Grand Junction; a site at Xxxxxx Xxxxxx State Wildlife Area on the Colorado River downstream from Grand Junction; an area near Adobe Creek downstream from Xxxxxx Xxxxxx; and the Xxxxxx Site in Grand Junction. Perpetual easements have been acquired on four properties (46 79 acres) and ten ); two properties have been acquired in perpetual easement or fee title to protect 394 (171 acres). Active control of smallmouth bass began channel catfish will begin in 20042003. Operation of the fish barrier net at Highline Reservoir has been ongoing since 1999; the net was replaced in March 2006. CDOW began will begin a study to determine the source of centrarchid fishes in 2003. Razorback Broodstock/refuge populations of Colorado pikeminnow and razorback sucker have been developed from Colorado River and bonytail Green River stocks. Colorado pikeminnow are currently being translocated and razorback sucker are currently being stocked upstream of in-channel barriers to utilize more historic habitat. Colorado has prepared a plan to stock bonytail in the Colorado River and stocking occurred for the first time in accordance with the integrated stocking plan (Xxxxxx et al. 2003)2001.

Recovery Actions. A variety of recovery actions are planned, ongoing, or completed for the Colorado River. Numerous approaches are being taken to restore flows in the 15-mile reach immediately upstream of from the confluence of the Gunnison River to levels recommended by the Service. Reclamation has made available 5,000 acre-feet of water annually plus an additional 5,000 acre-feet in four of every five years from Ruedi Reservoir to augment flows in the 15-mile reach during July, August, and September. In addition, water is available from the lease of 10,825 acre-feet/year of water from Ruedi Reservoir and permanent commitment of 10,825 acre-feet/year from East and West slope water users. The East and West slope 10-year commitments were secured in 2000 by Memoranda of Agreement (MOA) with the Colorado River Water Conservation District (CRWCD) and Denver Water for delivery of 5,412 acre-feet of water from Xxxxxxx Mountain Reservoir and 5,412 acre-feet from Xxxxxxxx Fork Reservoir, respectivelyrespectively (extended through 2013). By 2009To replace these interim sources of water and meet their obligations to provide 10,825 af of water to the 15-Mile Reach on a permanent basis, CRWCD East and Denver Water will have West slope water users cooperatively analyzed a plan in place wide range of alternatives, reaching consensus on the "Lake Granby-Ruedi" option which they are now working to permanently replace implement. Signing of agreements to provide the water now being delivered by Xxxxxxx and Xxxxxxxx Fork reservoirs. Additional permanent sources of water is being provided through an MOA expected in mid-2011, with CRWCD for delivery implementation of up to 6,000 acre-feet of water from Xxxxxxx Mountain Reservoirthe permanent sources by 2013. In 1992, Colorado filed an application in State water court for a 581 cubic feet per second (cfs) instream-flow right in the 15-mile reach for the months of July, August, and September. A final decree was issued in 1997. Colorado filed for a junior instream- flow right for the 15-Mile Reach in December 1995, which was opposed in State water court. As a result of concerns expressed by the Service and other Recovery Program participants, CWCB withdrew the baseflow and recovery flow instream-flow filings on the Colorado and Yampa rivers. With the approval of the PBO for the upper Colorado River upstream of the Gunnison River confluence, CDOW staff was instructed by CWCB to develop new methodologies and flow recommendations. The Recovery Program and CWCB will reevaluate the need for instream-flow filings every 5 years as called for in the PBO. Flow recommendations and protection for the Colorado River downstream from the confluence of the Gunnison River will be addressed following completion of the necessary environmental compliance. The Service completed their Gunnison River Programmatic Biological Opinion on reoperation in December, 2009. Reclamation may complete their EIS in 2011. Water is being provided to the 15-Mile Reach through an MOA with CRWCD for delivery of the Aspinall Unitup to 6,000 acre-feet of water from Xxxxxxx Mountain Reservoir. Other sources of water for the 15-mile reach include construction of the Grand Valley Water Management Project and operation of Federal and private projects. A study of options for providing additional water primarily to augment spring peak flows was completed in 2003. Water users are exploring ways to increase participation in the expanded coordinated reservoir operations (CROS) as recommended in the study report and completed a CROS implementation plan in February 2006. CROS began in 1997 and was conducted in 1997, 1998, 1999, 2006, 2008, 2009, and 2010 as flows permitted. Reclamation has constructed fish passage at the GVIC and GVP diversion dams on the upper Colorado River. Construction of passage at the Price-Stubb diversion dam is scheduled for FY 2007-was completed in 2008. Successfully providing fish Fish passage at these diversion dams would benefit benefits both Colorado pikeminnow and razorback sucker (as well as other non-listed, native species) by providing access to approximately 50 miles of the river that was used historically by these fishes. To prevent entrainment of endangered fishes into diversion canals, fish screens have been constructed at GVIC and at the Grand Valley Project. To restore floodplain habitats, levees have been breached to at 3 sites (46 acres) and ten properties acquired in perpetual easement or fee title to protect 394 acres. Active control management of smallmouth bass began in 2004. Largemouth bass also are targeted, but fish >10” in length originally were to be translocated to Highline Lake. Prior to the 2011 sampling season, the Recovery Program recommended and CDOW agreed to cease translocation of largemouth bass. Operation of the fish barrier net at Highline Reservoir has been ongoing since 1999; the net was replaced in March 20062006 and is scheduled for replacement in 2012. A CSU/CDOW began a study to determine the source of centrarchid fishes suggested that floodplain pond contributions to riverine nonnative fish populations fluctuate with the interannual variations in 2003flow regime and river–pond connectivity (Xxxxxxxxx et al. 2007). Razorback sucker and bonytail are being stocked in the Colorado River in accordance with the integrated stocking plan (Xxxxxx et al. 2003).

Recovery Actions. A variety of recovery actions are planned, ongoing, or completed for the Colorado River. Numerous approaches are being taken to restore flows in the 15-mile reach immediately upstream of from the confluence of the Gunnison River to levels recommended by the Service. Reclamation has made available 5,000 acre-feet of water annually plus an additional 5,000 acre-feet in four of every five years from Ruedi Reservoir to augment flows in the 15-mile reach during July, August, and September. In addition, water is available from the lease of 10,825 acre-feet/year of water from Ruedi Reservoir and permanent commitment of 10,825 acre-feet/year from East and West slope water users. The East and West slope commitments were secured in 2000 by Memoranda of Agreement (MOA) with the Colorado River Water Conservation District (CRWCD) and Denver Water for delivery of 5,412 acre-feet of water from Xxxxxxx Mountain Reservoir and 5,412 acre-feet from Xxxxxxxx Fork Reservoir, respectively. By December 2009, CRWCD and Denver Water will have a plan in place to permanently replace the water now being delivered by Xxxxxxx and Xxxxxxxx Fork reservoirs. Additional water is being provided through an MOA with CRWCD for delivery of up to 6,000 acre-feet of water from Xxxxxxx Mountain Reservoir. In 1992, Colorado filed an application in State water court for a 581 cubic feet per second (cfs) instream-flow right in the 15-mile reach for the months of July, August, and September. A final decree was issued in 1997. Colorado filed for a junior instream- flow right for the 15-Mile Reach in December 1995, which was opposed in State water court. As a result of concerns expressed by the Service and other Recovery Program participants, CWCB withdrew the baseflow and recovery flow instream-flow filings on the Colorado and Yampa rivers. With the approval of the PBO for the upper Colorado River upstream of the Gunnison River confluence, CDOW staff was instructed by CWCB to develop new methodologies and flow recommendations. The Recovery Program and CWCB will reevaluate the need for instream-flow filings 5 years as called for in the PBO. Flow recommendations and protection for the Colorado River downstream from the confluence of the Gunnison River will be addressed following completion of the Biological Opinion on reoperation of the Aspinall Unit. Other sources of water for the 15-mile reach include construction of the Grand Valley Water Management Project and operation of Federal and private projects. A study of options for providing additional water primarily to augment spring peak flows was completed in 2003. Water users are exploring ways to increase participation in the expanded coordinated reservoir operations (CROS) as recommended in the study report and completed a CROS implementation plan in February 2006. CROS began in 1997 and was conducted in 1997, 1998, 1999, 2006, and 2008 as flows permitted. Reclamation has constructed fish passage at the GVIC and GVP diversion dams on the upper Colorado River. Construction of passage at the Price-Stubb diversion dam is scheduled for FY 2007-was completed in 2008. Successfully providing fish Fish passage at these diversion dams would benefit benefits both Colorado pikeminnow and razorback sucker by providing access to approximately 50 miles of the river that was used historically by these fishes. To prevent entrainment of endangered fishes into diversion canals, fish screens have been constructed at GVIC and at the Grand Valley Project. To restore floodplain habitats, levees have been breached to at 3 sites (46 acres) and ten properties acquired in perpetual easement or fee title to protect 394 acres. Active control management of smallmouth bass began in 2004. Operation of the fish barrier net at Highline Reservoir has been ongoing since 1999; the net was replaced in March 2006. CDOW began a study to determine the source of centrarchid fishes in 2003. Razorback sucker and bonytail are being stocked in the Colorado River in accordance with the integrated stocking plan (Xxxxxx et al. 2003).

Recovery Actions. A variety of recovery actions are planned, ongoing, or completed for the Colorado River. Numerous approaches are being taken to restore flows in the 15-mile reach Mile Reach immediately upstream of from the confluence of the Gunnison River to levels recommended by the Service. Reclamation has made available 5,000 acre-feet of water annually plus an additional 5,000 acre-feet in four of every five years from Ruedi Reservoir to augment flows in the 15-mile reach during July, August, and September. In addition, water is available from the lease of 10,825 acre-feet/year of water from Ruedi Reservoir and permanent commitment of 10,825 acre-feet/year from East and West slope water users. The East and West slope 10-year commitments were secured in 2000 by Memoranda of Agreement (MOA) with the Colorado River Water Conservation District (CRWCD) and Denver Water for delivery of 5,412 acre-feet of water from Xxxxxxx Mountain Reservoir and 5,412 acre-feet from Xxxxxxxx Fork Reservoir, respectivelyrespectively (extended through 2013). By 2009To replace these interim sources of water and meet their obligations to provide 10,825 af of water to the 15-Mile Reach on a permanent basis, CRWCD East and Denver West slope water users cooperatively analyzed a wide range of alternatives, reaching consensus on the "Lake Granby-Ruedi" option. A contract to provide Ruedi Reservoir water by water user agreement to provide a permanent source of water was completed in 2012. The Lake Granby contracts/agreements were completed in 2013. Implementation of the permanent sources occurred during the 2013 irrigation season. The Service’s average monthly summer minimum base flow recommendation of 810 cfs continues to be difficult to achieve / maintain during dry years. However, the summer base flow augmentation program often increases instantaneous flows in the 15-Mile Reach by 200 cfs or more. The Program is working to improve the overall strategy for flow augmentation in the 15- Mile Reach to be considered each spring and adjusted as the year progresses, addressing all possible sources of water, priorities, antecedent conditions, projected flows and supplies, including OMID, Grand Valley Project, CFOPS, etc. In 2015, 2016, and 2017 the CWCB entered into a one-year lease agreement with Ute Water will have a plan Conservancy District for water stored in place Ruedi Reservoir to permanently replace supplement flows for existing instream water rights on the water now being delivered by Xxxxxxx Colorado. That agreement allowed CWCB to lease between 6,000 acre-feet and Xxxxxxxx Fork reservoirs. Additional water is being provided through an MOA with CRWCD for delivery of up to 6,000 12,000 acre-feet of water from Xxxxxxx Mountain ReservoirRuedi for instream flow use in the 15-Mile Reach. 9,000 acre-feet were leased in 2015; 12,000 acre-feet in 2016; and 6,000 acre-feet in 2017. In April 2013, a combination of conditions (including below-average snowpack, low runoff, early onset of the irrigation season, cold temperatures curtailing upstream runoff, and conservation in upstream storage) resulted in flows of 50 cfs or less in the 15-Mile Reach. In the future, water users and the Service will address the potential for this situation to recur as part of the normal HUP calls regarding water management for the 15-Mile Reach and determine what measures if any should be taken based on current conditions. This should avoid a repeat of the extreme low flows in the spring. The Service and water users will formalize and implement more specific recommendations to deal with the situation should it recur in the future. In 1992, Colorado filed an application in State water court for a 581 cubic feet per second (cfs) instream-flow right in the 15-mile reach for the months of July, August, and September. A final decree was In 1994, Colorado filed for a 300 cubic feet per second instream flow right on the return flows available in the 15-Mile Reach during the same months. Final decrees for both of these water rights were issued in 1997. Colorado filed for a junior instream- instream-flow right for rights on additional base flows and recovery goals in the 15-Mile Reach in December 1995, which was opposed in State water court. As a result Because of concerns expressed by the Service and other Recovery Program participants, CWCB withdrew the baseflow and recovery flow instream-flow filings on the Colorado and Yampa rivers. With the approval of the PBO for the upper Colorado River upstream of the Gunnison River confluence, CDOW staff was instructed by CWCB to develop new methodologies and flow recommendations. The Recovery Program and CWCB will reevaluate the need for instream-flow filings or other protective mechanisms at least every 5 years as called and document their findings. Water is being provided to the 15-Mile Reach through an MOA with CRWCD for in the PBO. Flow recommendations and protection for the Colorado River downstream delivery of up to 6,000 acre-feet of water from the confluence of the Gunnison River will be addressed following completion of the Biological Opinion on reoperation of the Aspinall UnitXxxxxxx Mountain Reservoir. Other sources of water for the 15-mile reach Mile Reach include construction of the Grand Valley Water Management Project and operation of Federal and private projects. A study of options for providing additional water primarily to augment spring peak flows was completed in 2003. Water users are exploring ways to increase participation in the expanded coordinated reservoir operations (CROS) as recommended in the study report report. Earlier coordinated reservoir operations for the 15-Mile Reach began in 1997. From 1997 to 2017, 1,895,161 acre-feet of water has been released from reservoirs in the upper reaches of the mainstem (including Green Mountain, Ruedi, Xxxxxxx Mountain Xxxxxxxx Fork, Granby Windy Gap, Willow Creek, and the Palisade Bypass) to enhance spring and summer flows to improve habitat in the 15-Mile Reach near Grand Junction. Reclamation and the municipalities of Grand Junction, Palisade, and Fruita have signed municipal-recreation agreements to deliver additional Orchard Mesa Check Settlement water and Grand Valley Water Management Plan water to benefit endangered fish. In 2000, Reclamation entered a 5-year contract to deliver Green Mountain surplus water to the city of Grand Junction for municipal/recreational purposes and that contract was renewed on 8/29/2007 through 12/31/2012. In 2015, Reclamation and the municipalities signed a 40-year agreement that can accommodate as much as 66,000 af – the entire Green Mountain Historic Users Pool. Under the previous agreements, Reclamation has delivered as much as 61,000 af/year. The Service completed a CROS implementation plan their Gunnison River Basin Programmatic Biological Opinion (PBO) in February 2006December 2009. In April 2012, Reclamation signed their Record of Decision on an EIS to re-operate the Aspinall Unit to provide flows for endangered fish in the Gunnison and Colorado rivers. The Recovery Program will conduct monitoring under the PBO and the Aspinall Unit Study Plan (2011) to assess how well the operation of the Aspinall Unit contributes to meeting target flows in the Gunnison and Colorado rivers and to help determine if managed flows from the Gunnison and the Colorado rivers are sufficient for recovery in the Colorado River between the Gunnison River and Green River confluences. After this monitoring and assessment are completed, the Service’s flow recommendations for the Colorado River at the Utah-Colorado state line (XxXxx 2003) may be revised, or others may be developed, as necessary. Reclamation has constructed fish passage at the GVIC GVIC, GVP, and GVP Price-Stubb diversion dams on the upper Colorado River. Construction of passage at the The Price-Stubb diversion dam is scheduled for FY 2007-2008passage was retrofitted with PIT tag antennas in 2010 and has detected bonytail, razorback sucker, Colorado pikeminnow and other native fish. Successfully providing fish Fish passage at these diversion dams would benefit both Colorado pikeminnow and razorback sucker benefits all four species of endangered fish (as well as other non-listed, native species) by providing access to approximately 50 miles of the river that was used historically by these fishes. To prevent entrainment of endangered fishes into diversion canals, fish screens have been constructed at GVIC and at the Grand Valley Project. The Recovery Program also salvages fish from these canals when the screens cannot be operated full-time throughout the irrigation season. Salvage has been necessary every year since screens were completed. From 2009-2013, the GVIC screen was operating, on average, 60% of the days during the irrigation season; during 2017, it was operational about 71% of the season. During 2012 and 2013, the GVP screen was operating 77% of the days during the irrigation season; during 2017, it was, for the first time, operational every day of the irrigation season. To restore floodplain habitats, levees have been breached to at 3 three sites (46 acres) and ten properties acquired in perpetual easement or fee title to protect 394 acres. Other off-channel ponds are managed to reduce the threat of nonnative inputs. Since 2015, Colorado Parks and Wildlife has operated a Xxxxxx trap net at a connected pond near Rifle, CO to prevent northern pike from reaching the Colorado River. Nonnative fish are also a threat to recovery in the Colorado River drainage. Active control removal of smallmouth bass began in 2004, and largemouth bass, northern pike, white sucker, and walleye are targeted. A CSU/CDOW study to determine the source of centrarchid fishes suggested that floodplain pond contributions to riverine nonnative fish populations fluctuate with the inter-annual variations in flow regime and river–pond connectivity (Xxxxxxxxx et al. 2007). Recovery Program projects remove nonnative fish from selected streamside ponds in order to limit the escape of these individuals into the river when they connect. Recovery Program concerns about increasing collections of northern pike in the Colorado River near Rifle led to increased removal efforts beginning in 2011. In 2013, CPW installed a fish screen to prevent nonnative fish escapement from Rifle Gap Reservoir in 2013. Northern pike are now rarely captured in the mainstem Colorado River, with only two individuals captured in 2017. Expansion of walleye numbers in the lower reaches observed in 2013 has raised concerns (these fish may be coming from Lake Xxxxxx) (Xxxxxxx and Xxxxx 2014). Specifically, walleye catches have greatly increased in the lower reaches of the Colorado River, overlapping with nursery habitat for Colorado pikeminnow. Documented predation on juvenile Colorado pikeminnow (~250mm) in this reach demonstrates the impact that predatory walleye can have on recruitment of the long-lived pikeminnow. The expansion of gizzard shad from Lake Xxxxxx may be supporting high walleye numbers, as gizzard shad are a preferred prey for walleye and constituted the most numerous catch in the Colorado River in 2017. Operation of the fish barrier net at Highline Reservoir has been ongoing since 1999; the net was replaced in March 20062006 and again in March 2014. CDOW began a study Annual maintenance at Highline Reservoir to determine flush sediment requires unscreened releases from the source outlet works. These releases are carefully timed in late summer when released waters are anoxic to minimize escapement of centrarchid fishes smallmouth bass and largemouth bass, which occur in 2003Highline Reservoir. A small gap between the net and the lake bottom was noted and repaired in 2017. Razorback sucker and bonytail are being stocked in the Colorado River in accordance with the integrated stocking plan revised Integrated Stocking Plan (Integrated Stocking Plan Revision Committee 2015). Razorback sucker spawning activity was documented in the Colorado River inflow of Lake Xxxxxx et alin 2014-2016 (near Trachyte Creek and Castle Butte). 2003)Biologists collected 954 adult razorback sucker between 2 and 14 years old from 2014-2016; 8% were without a PIT tag. In 2014, 811 larvae were collected and in 2015, biologists identified three spawning areas in the Lake Xxxxxx inflow area.

Recovery Actions. A variety of recovery actions are planned, ongoing, or completed for the Colorado River. Numerous approaches are being taken to restore flows in the 15-mile reach immediately upstream of from the confluence of the Gunnison River to levels recommended by the Service. Reclamation has made available 5,000 acre-feet of water annually plus an additional 5,000 acre-feet in four of every five years from Ruedi Reservoir to augment flows in the 15-mile reach during July, August, and September. In addition, water is available from the lease of 10,825 acre-feet/year of water from Ruedi Reservoir and permanent commitment of 10,825 acre-feet/year from East and West slope water users. The East and West slope 10-year commitments were secured in 2000 by Memoranda of Agreement (MOA) with the Colorado River Water Conservation District (CRWCD) and Denver Water for delivery of 5,412 acre-feet of water from Xxxxxxx Mountain Reservoir and 5,412 acre-feet from Xxxxxxxx Fork Reservoir, respectivelyrespectively (extended through 2013). By 2009, CRWCD and Denver Water will have a plan in place to permanently To replace the water now being delivered by Xxxxxxx and Xxxxxxxx Fork reservoirs. Additional water is being provided through an MOA with CRWCD for delivery of up to 6,000 acre-feet these interim sources of water from Xxxxxxx Mountain Reservoirand meet their obligations to provide 10,825 af of water to the 15-Mile Reach on a permanent basis, East and West slope water users cooperatively analyzed a wide range of alternatives, reaching consensus on the "Lake Granby-Ruedi" option which they are now working to implement. A contract to provide Ruedi Reservoir water by water user agreement to provide a permanent source of water was completed in 2012. The Lake Granby contracts/agreements are expected to be complete in 2013. Implementation of the permanent sources is expected to occur in 2013. In 1992, Colorado filed an application in State water court for a 581 cubic feet per second (cfs) instream-flow right in the 15-mile reach for the months of July, August, and September. A final decree was issued in 1997. Colorado filed for a junior instream- flow right for the 15-Mile Reach in December 1995, which was opposed in State water court. As a result of concerns expressed by the Service and other Recovery Program participants, CWCB withdrew the baseflow and recovery flow instream-flow filings on the Colorado and Yampa rivers. With the approval of the PBO for the upper Colorado River upstream of the Gunnison River confluence, CDOW staff was instructed by CWCB to develop new methodologies and flow recommendations. The Recovery Program and CWCB will reevaluate the need for instream-flow filings or other protective mechanisms at least every 5 years as called and document their findings. The Service completed their Gunnison River Basin Programmatic Biological Opinion (PBO) in December, 2009. In April 2012, Reclamation signed their Record of Decision on an EIS to reoperate the Aspinall Unit to provide flows for endangered fish in the PBOGunnison and Colorado rivers. Flow The Recovery Program will conduct monitoring under the PBO to assess how well the operation of the Aspinall Unit contributes to meeting target flows in the Gunnison and Colorado rivers and to help determine if managed flows from the Gunnison and the Colorado rivers are sufficient for recovery in the Colorado River from the Gunnison River to the confluence of the Green and Colorado rivers. After this monitoring is conducted and the Aspinall Unit Study Plan (2011) is completed, the Service’s flow recommendations and protection for the Colorado River downstream at the Utah- Colorado state line (XxXxx 2003) may be revised, or others may be developed, as necessary. Water is being provided to the 15-Mile Reach through an MOA with CRWCD for delivery of up to 6,000 acre-feet of water from the confluence of the Gunnison River will be addressed following completion of the Biological Opinion on reoperation of the Aspinall UnitXxxxxxx Mountain Reservoir. Other sources of water for the 15-mile reach include construction of the Grand Valley Water Management Project and operation of Federal and private projects. A study of options for providing additional water primarily to augment spring peak flows was completed in 2003. Water users are exploring ways to increase participation in the expanded coordinated reservoir operations (CROS) as recommended in the study report and completed a CROS implementation plan in February 2006. CROS began in 1997 and was conducted in 1997, 1998, 1999, 2006, 2008, 2009, and 2010 as flows permitted. Reclamation has constructed fish passage at the GVIC and GVP diversion dams on the upper Colorado River. Construction of passage at the Price-Stubb diversion dam is scheduled for FY 2007-was completed in 2008. Successfully providing fish Fish passage at these diversion dams would benefit both Colorado pikeminnow and razorback sucker benefits all four species of endangered fish (as well as other non-listed, native species) by providing access to approximately 50 miles of the river that was used historically by these fishes. To prevent entrainment of endangered fishes into diversion canals, fish screens have been constructed at GVIC and at the Grand Valley Project. The Program also salvages fish from these canals when the screens cannot be operated full-time throughout the irrigation season. To restore floodplain habitats, levees have been breached to at 3 sites (46 acres) and ten properties acquired in perpetual easement or fee title to protect 394 acres. Active control removal of smallmouth bass began in 2004. Largemouth bass also are targeted. Operation of the fish barrier net at Highline Reservoir has been ongoing since 1999; the net was replaced in March 20062006 and is scheduled for replacement in 2013. Annual maintenance at Highline Reservoir to flush sediment requires unscreened releases from the outlet works. These releases are carefully timed in late summer when released waters are anoxic so as to minimize escapement of smallmouth bass and largemouth bass which occur in Highline Reservoir. A CSU/CDOW began a study to determine the source of centrarchid fishes suggested that floodplain pond contributions to riverine nonnative fish populations fluctuate with the interannual variations in 2003flow regime and river–pond connectivity (Xxxxxxxxx et al. 2007). Program concerns about increasing collections of northern pike in the Colorado River near Rifle led to increased removal efforts beginning in 2011. Razorback sucker and bonytail are being stocked in the Colorado River in accordance with the integrated stocking plan (Xxxxxx et al. 2003).

Recovery Actions. A variety of recovery actions are planned, ongoing, or completed for the Colorado River. Numerous approaches are being taken to restore flows in the 15-mile reach immediately upstream of from the confluence of the Gunnison River to levels recommended by the Service. Reclamation has made available 5,000 acre-feet of water annually plus an additional 5,000 acre-feet in four of every five years from Ruedi Reservoir to augment flows in the 15-mile reach during July, August, and September. In addition, water is available from the lease of 10,825 acre-feet/year of water from Ruedi Reservoir and permanent commitment of 10,825 acre-feet/year from East and West slope water users. The East and West slope 10-year commitments were secured in 2000 by Memoranda of Agreement (MOA) with the Colorado River Water Conservation District (CRWCD) and Denver Water for delivery of 5,412 acre-feet of water from Xxxxxxx Mountain Reservoir and 5,412 acre-feet from Xxxxxxxx Fork Reservoir, respectivelyrespectively (extended through 2013). By 2009To replace these interim sources of water and meet their obligations to provide 10,825 af of water to the 15-Mile Reach on a permanent basis, CRWCD East and Denver Water will have West slope water users cooperatively analyzed a plan in place wide range of alternatives, reaching consensus on the "Lake Granby-Ruedi" option which they are now working to permanently replace implement. Signing of agreements to provide the water now being delivered by Xxxxxxx and Xxxxxxxx Fork reservoirs. Additional permanent sources of water is being provided through an MOA expected in 2012, with CRWCD for delivery implementation of up to 6,000 acre-feet of water from Xxxxxxx Mountain Reservoirthe permanent sources by 2013. In 1992, Colorado filed an application in State water court for a 581 cubic feet per second (cfs) instream-flow right in the 15-mile reach for the months of July, August, and September. A final decree was issued in 1997. Colorado filed for a junior instream- flow right for the 15-Mile Reach in December 1995, which was opposed in State water court. As a result of concerns expressed by the Service and other Recovery Program participants, CWCB withdrew the baseflow and recovery flow instream-flow filings on the Colorado and Yampa rivers. With the approval of the PBO for the upper Colorado River upstream of the Gunnison River confluence, CDOW staff was instructed by CWCB to develop new methodologies and flow recommendations. The Recovery Program and CWCB will reevaluate the need for instream-flow filings or other protective mechanisms at least every 5 years as called for in the PBOand document their findings. Flow recommendations and protection for the Colorado River downstream from the confluence of the Gunnison River will be addressed following completion of the necessary environmental compliance. The Service completed their Gunnison River Programmatic Biological Opinion on reoperation in December, 2009. Reclamation may complete their EIS in 2011. Water is being provided to the 15-Mile Reach through an MOA with CRWCD for delivery of the Aspinall Unitup to 6,000 acre-feet of water from Xxxxxxx Mountain Reservoir. Other sources of water for the 15-mile reach include construction of the Grand Valley Water Management Project and operation of Federal and private projects. A study of options for providing additional water primarily to augment spring peak flows was completed in 2003. Water users are exploring ways to increase participation in the expanded coordinated reservoir operations (CROS) as recommended in the study report and completed a CROS implementation plan in February 2006. CROS began in 1997 and was conducted in 1997, 1998, 1999, 2006, 2008, 2009, and 2010 as flows permitted. Reclamation has constructed fish passage at the GVIC and GVP diversion dams on the upper Colorado River. Construction of passage at the Price-Stubb diversion dam is scheduled for FY 2007-was completed in 2008. Successfully providing fish Fish passage at these diversion dams would benefit benefits both Colorado pikeminnow and razorback sucker (as well as other non-listed, native species) by providing access to approximately 50 miles of the river that was used historically by these fishes. To prevent entrainment of endangered fishes into diversion canals, fish screens have been constructed at GVIC and at the Grand Valley Project. To restore floodplain habitats, levees have been breached to at 3 sites (46 acres) and ten properties acquired in perpetual easement or fee title to protect 394 acres. Active control management of smallmouth bass began in 2004. Largemouth bass also are targeted, but fish >10” in length originally were to be translocated to Highline Lake. Prior to the 2011 sampling season, the Recovery Program recommended and CDOW agreed to cease translocation of largemouth bass. Operation of the fish barrier net at Highline Reservoir has been ongoing since 1999; the net was replaced in March 20062006 and is scheduled for replacement in 2012. A CSU/CDOW began a study to determine the source of centrarchid fishes suggested that floodplain pond contributions to riverine nonnative fish populations fluctuate with the interannual variations in 2003flow regime and river–pond connectivity (Xxxxxxxxx et al. 2007). Razorback sucker and bonytail are being stocked in the Colorado River in accordance with the integrated stocking plan (Xxxxxx et al. 2003).

Recovery Actions. A variety of recovery actions are planned, ongoing, or completed for the Colorado River. Numerous approaches are being taken to restore flows in the 15-mile reach immediately upstream of from the confluence of the Gunnison River to levels recommended by the Service. Reclamation has made available 5,000 acre-feet of water annually plus an additional 5,000 acre-feet in four of every five years from Ruedi Reservoir to augment flows in the 15-mile reach during July, August, and September. In addition, water is available from the lease of 10,825 acre-feet/year of water from Ruedi Reservoir and permanent commitment of 10,825 acre-feet/year from East and West slope water users. The East and West slope 10-year commitments were secured in 2000 by Memoranda of Agreement (MOA) with the Colorado River Water Conservation District (CRWCD) and Denver Water for delivery of 5,412 acre-feet of water from Xxxxxxx Mountain Reservoir and 5,412 acre-feet from Xxxxxxxx Fork Reservoir, respectivelyrespectively (expiring July 1, 2010). By 2009To replace these interim sources of water and meet their obligations to provide 10,825 af of water to the 15-Mile Reach on a permanent basis, CRWCD East and Denver Water West slope water users cooperatively analyzed a wide range of alternatives, reaching consensus on the "Lake Granby-Ruedi" option which they are now working to implement. The existing 10-year (interim) agreements expiring July 1, 2010 will have a plan be extended through 2012, with delivery of the permanent 10,825 beginning in place to permanently replace the water now being delivered by Xxxxxxx and Xxxxxxxx Fork reservoirssummer of 2013. Additional water is being provided through an MOA with CRWCD for delivery of up to 6,000 acre-feet of water from Xxxxxxx Mountain Reservoir. In 1992, Colorado filed an application in State water court for a 581 cubic feet per second (cfs) instream-flow right in the 15-mile reach for the months of July, August, and September. A final decree was issued in 1997. Colorado filed for a junior instream- flow right for the 15-Mile Reach in December 1995, which was opposed in State water court. As a result of concerns expressed by the Service and other Recovery Program participants, CWCB withdrew the baseflow and recovery flow instream-flow filings on the Colorado and Yampa rivers. With the approval of the PBO for the upper Colorado River upstream of the Gunnison River confluence, CDOW staff was instructed by CWCB to develop new methodologies and flow recommendations. The Recovery Program and CWCB will reevaluate the need for instream-flow filings 5 years as called for in the PBO. Flow recommendations and protection for the Colorado River downstream from the confluence of the Gunnison River will be addressed following completion of the Biological Opinion on reoperation of the Aspinall Unit. Other sources of water for the 15-mile reach include construction of the Grand Valley Water Management Project and operation of Federal and private projects. A study of options for providing additional water primarily to augment spring peak flows was completed in 2003. Water users are exploring ways to increase participation in the expanded coordinated reservoir operations (CROS) as recommended in the study report and completed a CROS implementation plan in February 2006. CROS began in 1997 and was conducted in 1997, 1998, 1999, 2006, 2008, and 2009 as flows permitted. Reclamation has constructed fish passage at the GVIC and GVP diversion dams on the upper Colorado River. Construction of passage at the Price-Stubb diversion dam is scheduled for FY 2007-was completed in 2008. Successfully providing fish Fish passage at these diversion dams would benefit benefits both Colorado pikeminnow and razorback sucker by providing access to approximately 50 miles of the river that was used historically by these fishes. To prevent entrainment of endangered fishes into diversion canals, fish screens have been constructed at GVIC and at the Grand Valley Project. To restore floodplain habitats, levees have been breached to at 3 sites (46 acres) and ten properties acquired in perpetual easement or fee title to protect 394 acres. Active control management of smallmouth bass began in 2004. Operation of the fish barrier net at Highline Reservoir has been ongoing since 1999; the net was replaced in March 2006. CDOW began a study to determine the source of centrarchid fishes in 2003. Razorback sucker and bonytail are being stocked in the Colorado River in accordance with the integrated stocking plan (Xxxxxx et al. 2003).