HomeMy WebLinkAbout11.21.79 Letter from Wite river National forrestUNITE srATET, DEPAR-rmEN1 OF AGFICULTLME
Fo RF_ST SERV ICE
White River National Forest
P.O. Box 948
Glenwood Springs, CO 81601
C. Kregger
Project Manager
Frvingpan- Arkansas Project
Box 515
Pueblo, CO 81002
L
Dear.Mr. Kregger:
2740
November. 21, 7979
It has come to our attention that in the past few months your agency
has been negotiating with the Colorado River [dater Conservation District
concerning a possible contract with the United Suites for the marketable
water yield of Ruedi Reservoir. As you are well aware, the Forest is very
concerned about the potential impact such t .contract may have on future
reservoir. operation. Rapid and prolonged drawdown during the summer
season could have a significant adverse effect on the recreation and
fishery resources. Our specific concern: were conveyed to. you in a
letter of 12/28/76, which is attached for reference.
S:i.nee the completion of Ruedi in 1968, recreation use has been steadily
increasing. As you pointed out in the Fryingpan- Arkansas Final Environ-
mental Impact Statement, visitors often times consider high altitude
lakes, such as Ruedi, primary vacation destinations because of the high
quality recreation experience. In light of this heavy recreation use
and the large federal :investment in recreational_ facilities at the
reservoir, we feel it is appropriate that your agency carefully consider
the environmental impact ,that may result from a change in the current
reservoir operation,
Our concerns are shared by the public, .Colorado Division of .Wildlife and
Department of Interior's Fish and Wildlife Scrvicc,,,,who incidently have
also recommended an-increase in the planned minimum conservation pool.
We want to emphasize that it is not our intent to lock up the water in
Rucdi, but rather maximize it's beneficial use through careful and
prudent planning.
620D -11 (11101)
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During . the construction of the Fry-Ark project our agencies have worked
harmoniously on many difficult environmental problems. We again call
upon you to continue this cooperation and work jointly to find a solution.
We are willing to assist you in any way in your consideration of this
ma-Ar.
TnonAs C. EVANS
Forest Supervisor
Enclosure