Effect of Habitat Alteration by Energy Resource Developments in the Upper Colorado River Basin on Endangered Fishes
Citation
T J Hickman, Effect of Habitat Alteration by Energy Resource Developments in the Upper Colorado River Basin on Endangered Fishes: .
Summary
The upper Colorado River system is the habitat of several endangered fish: Kendall Warm Springs dace, Colorado squawfish, humpback chub, and bonytail chub. The single most important factor contributing to the decline of these species has been the construction and operation of dams and reservoirs, which have effected flow, temperature, chemistry, biota, and migration routes. Water depletion amounting to about 25% of the total has also had similar effects, particularly by eliminating the backwater nursery areas. A predicted decrease in agricultural use and increase in energy development use would decrease the amount of used irrigation water percolating back into the groundwater and streams. In addition, water allocated for irrigation [...]
Summary
The upper Colorado River system is the habitat of several endangered fish: Kendall Warm Springs dace, Colorado squawfish, humpback chub, and bonytail chub. The single most important factor contributing to the decline of these species has been the construction and operation of dams and reservoirs, which have effected flow, temperature, chemistry, biota, and migration routes. Water depletion amounting to about 25% of the total has also had similar effects, particularly by eliminating the backwater nursery areas. A predicted decrease in agricultural use and increase in energy development use would decrease the amount of used irrigation water percolating back into the groundwater and streams. In addition, water allocated for irrigation is not always used, whereas energy use would be more uniform. In order to preserve the endangered fish, cooperation between diverse groups is needed. This may require that some dam projects may be abandoned and that others may be changed or delayed. Reducing demands on the river 's water supply can also aid in protecting the fish. This could take the form of energy alternatives (solar), water conservation, technological improvements, use of groundwater where feasible, and weather modification. Other habitat preservation activities are purchase of water rights, habitat manipulation and construction, fish passageways, and artificial propagation.
Published in Aquatic Resources Management of the Colorado River Ecosystem: Proceedings of the 1981 Symposium on the Aquatic Resources Management of the Colorado River Ecosystem November 16-18, 1981, on pages 537 - 550, in 1981.
