Preliminary Draft 

MRP Revisions to address the TWG Minority Report 

GCMRC 

June 12, 2007 

AMWG Recommendation 

“AMWG approves the MRP as a working document to help guide preparation of the FY 

08-09 work plan and budget; and recommends to the Secretary of the Interior the GCMRC 

be charged with (1) addressing the concerns listed in the TWG minority report in a final 

FY 07-11 document and (2) bringing that document to the AMWG for further 

consideration in the summer of 2007.” AMWG Meeting, December 5, 2007 

The TWG minority report (Appendix A) was authored by NPS, Colorado and WAPA. 

NPS Issues Related to the MRP 

The NPS and GCMRC met on 1/11/2007 regarding NPS concerns over the draft MRP that had 

been specified in the minority report presented to the AMWG on 12/6/06. The discussion boiled 

down to a concern that the draft MRP (11/14) lacked a comprehensive list of critical science 

questions that would be addressed over the next 5 years. To address this NPS concern, GCMRC 

and NPS agreed that GCMRC would develop a crosswalk table showing how the 250 +/- 

Research Information Needs in the AMP Strategic Plan relate to the Strategic Science Questions 

in the draft MRP. Through a review of this table, GCMRC and NPS would identify new science 

questions to be included in the MRP. GCMRC would bring the revised list to the TWG for 

review. The crosswalk table and additional science questions would be included in the revised 

draft MRP and brought to the AMWG for approval at its summer meeting. 

Table 1 (attached) provides a crosswalk between Research Information Needs identified in the 

AMP Strategic Plan and strategic science questions in the FY07-FY11 Monitoring and Research 

Plan. Table 1 also identifies five new Strategic Science Questions that will be added to the 

MRP. These include: 

1. What habitats and habitat characteristics, if any, will enhance survival, growth, and 

reproduction of native Grand Canyon fishes, especially humpback chub, in the mainstem 

Colorado River? 

2. What are the most effective strategies and control methods to limit nonnative fish 

predation on, and competition with, native fishes? 

3. What life stage(s) of rainbow trout pose the greatest threat to humpback chub and other 

native fishes? Are the rainbow trout that threaten humpback chub resident fish, produced 

in the Little Colorado River reach of the Colorado River, or are these rainbow trout 

immigrants that were spawned in the Lees Ferry reach? 

4. What are the effects of ramping rates on sediment transport and sandbar stability? 

5. What is the rate of change in eddy storage (erosion) during time intervals between 

BHBFs? [both 4 and 5 were derived from the 2006 Knowledge Assessment report] 

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Preliminary Draft 

The criteria used to determine whether a new SSQ should be added to the MRP included: 

1. The RIN has not been met or resolved, and 

2. The RIN is not addressed by an existing SSQ or other aspect of the MRP, and

3. The RIN is a priority for the next 5 years based on whether it was (a) relevant to an 

AMWG priority questions, and (b) feasible to accomplish, and

4. the RIN is a science related question 

All criteria needed to be met before a new question was proposed. 

WAPA and State of Colorado Issues Related to the MRP 

 John Hamill (GCMRC) met with Rod Kuharich (CO), Randy Seaholm (CO), Mary Barger, 

(WAPA), and Clayton Palmer (WAPA) on December 6, 2006, in Las Vegas, NV, to discuss 

issues identified in the TWG minority report on the MRP. Three major issues were identified: 

1. Humpback Chub monitoring: There is a concern that FWS has not accepted the 

protocols/models used by GCMRC to determine the humpback chub population status in the 

Grand Canyon. GCMRC has been working with FWS to ensure that the monitoring 

protocols and models for humpback chub in the Grand Canyon are consistent with the 

requirements of the Humpback Chub Recovery Plan. Language will be included in the 

MRP that clarifies that the humpback chub monitoring being conducted under the 

auspices of the AMP will be designed to meet the standards or requirements specified in 

the Humpback Chub Recovery Plan. 

2. Sediment: The primary sediment issues were that

• Policy guidance needs to be provided on the geographic scope of sediment work in the 

Grand Canyon, i.e., is the focus on the entire Colorado River from Glen Canyon Dam to 

Lake Mead or just to the Marble Canyon reach? USGS supports the definition of this 

and other Desired Future Resource Conditions and will update the MRP when they 

are developed and agreed to by the managers. 

• WAPA and Colorado would like the MRP to reflect that other options for sediment 

conservation will be addressed. USGS is unaware of any other feasible options for 

sediment conservation over the next five years.

• Colorado expressed concern that use of sand bars by recreational users significantly 

threatens the persistence of sand bars. This issue has not been identified by the AMP 

as a high priority research issue for the next 5 years

WAPA/Colorado were invited to draft proposed revisions to the MRP to reflect the points 

above; however none were provided 

3. Food Base 

• The MRP currently specifies that effects of stable vs. fluctuating flows on food base 

would be addressed through the Long Term Experimental Plan which is still a work in 

progress. There is currently a place holder in the MRP to address the effects of 

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Preliminary Draft 

3

alternative flow regimes on food base. The intent is to update the MRP to be consistent 

with the LTEP once it is finalized. Accordingly, USGS does not believe that the MRP 

should be modified to address this need at this time. 

• Palmer supports implementation of Argonne National Lab’s proposal for doing short 

term experiments to evaluate the effects of fluctuating flows on drift and food base in FY 

2008. If WAPA believes that the Argonne proposal needs to be considered before 

the Long Term Experimental Plan is completed, USGS recommends that this 

proposal be brought to the TWG for consideration during the preparation of the FY 

2008 work plan.

Next Steps 

1. GCMRC will revise the MRP based on consideration of comments/recommendations from 

the primary authors of the Minority Report (Colorado, NPS and WAPA) 

2. GCMRC will send out proposed MRP revisions for review and concurrence by the TWG 

3. GCMRC will send out proposed MRP revisions for review and approval by the AMWG 

(August 1, 2007) 
Preliminary Draft 

Table 1. Crosswalk between Research Information Needs identified in the AMP Strategic Plan and strategic scieFY07-FY11 Monitoring and Research Plan. 

No. AMWG 

Sequence No. and Category

AMWG Priority 

RIN no. 

RIN text SSQs and relevant CMINs 

Questions listed below are from the MRP. 

C

1 1, A 1 2.1.2 Quantify sources of 

mortality for humpback chub < 51 mm in rearing habitats in the LCR and mainstem and how these sources of mortality are related to dam operations. 

New SSQ: What habitats and habitat characteristics, if any, will enhance survival, growth, and reproduction of native Grand Canyon fishes, especially humpback chub, in the mainstem Colorado River? 

TmcYw0daa

2 1.5, A 1 2.1.3 What is the relationship 

between size of HBC and mortality in the LCR and the mainstem? What are the sources of mortality (i.e., predation, cannibalism, other) in the LCR and the mainstem? 

New SSQ: What habitats and habitat characteristics, if any, will enhance survival, growth, and reproduction of native Grand Canyon fishes, especially humpback chub, in the mainstem Colorado River? 

TmcHto nato 

3 2, A 1 2.1.4 What habitats enhance 

recruitment of native fish in the LCR and mainstem? What are the physical and biological characteristics of those habitats? 

New SSQ: What habitats and habitat characteristics, if any, will enhance survival, growth, and reproduction of native Grand Canyon fishes, especially humpback chub, in the mainstem Colorado River? SSQ 1-1. To what extent are adult populations of native fish controlled by production of young fish from tributaries, spawning and incubation in the mainstem, survival of YoY and juvenile stages in the mainstem, or by changes in growth and maturation in the adult population as influenced by mainstem conditions? SSQ 1-7. Which tributary and mainstem habitats are most important to native fishes and how can these habitats best be made useable and maintained? SA 1. What are the most limiting factors to successful HBC adult recruitment in the mainstem: spawning 

Ga

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Preliminary Draft 

success, predation on YoY and juveniles, habitat (water, temperature), pathogens, adult maturation, food availability, competition? 

4 2, A 1 2.1.5 Determine the timing and 

quantity of young-of-year humpback chub dispersal (passive and active) from the LCR. 

SSQ 1-1. To what extent are adult populations of native fish controlled by production of young fish from tributaries, spawning and incubation in the mainstem, survival of YoY and juvenile stages in the mainstem, or by changes in growth and maturation in the adult population as influenced by mainstem conditions? 

TthcmmTbreGdqDwcataa

5 2, C 1 2.2.3 What are the measurable 

criteria that need to be met in order to remove jeopardy for humpback chub in the Colorado River ecosystem? 

None proposed P

(c(UcwnGthb

6 2, A 1 2.2.5 What are the appropriate 

habitat conditions for HBC spawning? Where are these found? Can they be created in the mainstem? 

SSQ 1-1. To what extent are adult populations of native fish controlled by production of young fish from tributaries, spawning and incubation in the mainstem, survival of YoY and juvenile stages in the mainstem, or by changes in growth and maturation in the adult population as influenced by mainstem conditions? SSQ 1-7. Which tributary and mainstem habitats are most important to native fishes and how can these habitats best be made useable and maintained? New SSQ: What habitats and habitat characteristics, if any, will enhance survival, growth, and reproduction of 

EcCpR2fcTao

5
Preliminary Draft 

native Grand Canyon fishes, especially humpback chub, in the mainstem Colorado River? 

cmy

7 2, A 1 2.2.8 What combination of dam 

release patterns and nonnative fish control facilitates successful spawning and recruitment of humpback chub in the Colorado River ecosystem? 

SSQ 1-1. To what extent are adult populations of native fish controlled by production of young fish from tributaries, spawning and incubation in the mainstem, survival of YoY and juvenile stages in the mainstem, or by changes in growth and maturation in the adult population as influenced by mainstem conditions? SSQ 1-4. Can long-term decreases in abundance of rainbow trout in Marble and eastern Grand Canyons be sustained with a reduced level of effort of mechanical removal or will recolonization from tributaries and from downstream and upstream of the removal reach require that mechanical removal be an ongoing management action? SSQ 5-6. Do the potential benefits of improved rearing habitat (warmer, more stable, more backwater and vegetated shorelines, more food) outweigh negative impacts due to increases in nonnative fish abundance? New SSQ: What habitats and habitat characteristics, if any, will enhance survival, growth, and reproduction of native Grand Canyon fishes, especially humpback chub, in the mainstem Colorado River? 

LimqthmothowUthraocmy

8 2, A 1 2.2.9 What is the appropriate 

role of humpback chub augmentation as a management strategy to establish mainstem spawning aggregations? 

None proposed P

TptethhSmA

9 2, A 5 2.3.2 How will warming 

mainstem temperatures affect the abundance and distribution of parasites/disease? 

SSQ 5-6. Do the potential benefits of improved rearing habitat (warmer, more stable, more backwater and vegetated shorelines, more food) outweigh negative impacts due to increases in nonnative fish abundance? SA 1. What are the most limiting factors to successful HBC adult recruitment in the mainstem: spawning success, predation on YoY and juveniles, habitat (water, 

A ecfis

6
Preliminary Draft 

temperature), pathogens, adult maturation, food availability, competition? 

10 2, A 1 2.4.1 What are the most 

effective strategies and control methods to limit non-native fish predation and competition on native fish? 

New SSQ: What are the most effective strategies and control methods to limit nonnative fish predation on, and competition with, native fishes? 

Tanmin 

11 2, A 1 2.4.3 To what degree, which 

species, and where in the system are exotic fish a detriment to the existence of native fish through predation or competition? 

SA 1. What are the most limiting factors to successful HBC adult recruitment in the mainstem: spawning success, predation on YoY and juveniles, habitat (water, temperature), pathogens, adult maturation, food availability, competition? New SSQ: What life stage(s) of rainbow trout pose the greatest threat to humpback chub and other native fishes? Are the rainbow trout that threaten humpback chub resident fish, produced in the Little Colorado River reach of the Colorado River, or are these rainbow trout immigrants that were spawned in the Lees Ferry reach? 

Tanpp

12 2, A 1 2.6.1 What is a viable 

population? 

SSQ 1-5. What are the important pathways that link lower trophic levels with fish and how will they link to dam operations? 

MSqawddrepfiSinf

13 2, A 1 2.6.2 What are the significant 

threats to these species? 

SSQ 1-1. To what extent are adult populations of native fish controlled by production of young fish from tributaries, spawning and incubation in the mainstem, survival of YoY and juvenile stages in the mainstem, or by changes in growth and maturation in the adult population as influenced by mainstem conditions? 

TH

14 2, A 1 4.2.6 To what extent are RBT 

below the Paria River 

SSQ 1-4. Can long-term decreases in abundance of rainbow trout in Marble and eastern Grand Canyons be 

Ta

7
Preliminary Draft 

predators of native fish, primarily HBC? At what size do they become predators of native fish, especially HBC, i.e. how do the trophic interactions between RBT and native fish change with size of fish? 

sustained with a reduced level of effort of mechanical removal or will recolonization from tributaries and from downstream and upstream of the removal reach require that mechanical removal be an ongoing management action? 

Thsthpto 

15 2, A 6+ 5.2.2 How does the size and 

quality of the habitat used by Kanab ambersnail change in response to an experiment performed under the Record of Decision, unanticipated event, or other management action? 

None proposed A

cw

16 2, A 3 12.9.2 What is the best 

combination of dam operations and other management actions to achieve the vision, mission, goals, and objectives of the GCDAMP? 

None proposed P

nfporee

17 2, A 3 12.9.3 What are the relationships 

between dam operations and other management actions in their effects on resources addressed by GCDAMP management objectives? 

None proposed O

cthRAfcToocin 

18 2.5, Done 1 2.1.1 What is the minimum 

population size of HBC 

SSQ 1-5. What are the important pathways that link lower trophic levels with fish and how will they link to 

Te

8
Preliminary Draft 

that should be sustained in the LCR, to ensure a viable spawning population of HBC in the LCR? 

dam operations? a

wddrepfiAcooleerein

19 2.5, A 1 2.2.4 What is the relationship 

between the “aggregations” in the mainstem and LCR? Are mainstem aggregations “sinks” of the LCR? Are aggregations real or due to sampling bias? 

None proposed 2

aAsnleHa(ati

20 2.5, A 1 2.4.2 Determine if suppression 

of non-native predators and competitors increases native fish populations? 

SSQ 1-1. To what extent are adult populations of native fish controlled by production of young fish from tributaries, spawning and incubation in the mainstem, survival of YoY and juvenile stages in the mainstem, or by changes in growth and maturation in the adult population as influenced by mainstem conditions? SA 1. What are the most limiting factors to successful HBC adult recruitment in the mainstem: spawning success, predation on YoY and juveniles, habitat (water, temperature), pathogens, adult maturation, food availability, competition? 

Tanppatec

21 2.5, A 1 2.4.6 What are the population 

dynamics of those nonnative fish that are the 

SSQ 5-6. Do the potential benefits of improved rearing habitat (warmer, more stable, more backwater and vegetated shorelines, more food) outweigh negative 

Tan

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Preliminary Draft 

major predators and competitors of native fish? 

impacts due to increases in nonnative fish abundance? p

pthd

22 2.5, A 6+ 4.2.1 What is the rate of 

emigration of rainbow trout from the Lees Ferry reach? 

New SSQ: What life stage(s) of rainbow trout pose the greatest threat to humpback chub and other native fishes? Are the rainbow trout that threaten humpback chub resident fish, produced in the Little Colorado River reach of the Colorado River, or are these rainbow trout immigrants that were spawned in the Lees Ferry reach? 

AanMw(aup

23 2.5, A 6+ 4.2.2 What is the most effective 

method to detect emigration of rainbow trout from the Lees Ferry reach? 

New SSQ: What life stage(s) of rainbow trout pose the greatest threat to humpback chub and other native fishes? Are the rainbow trout that threaten humpback chub resident fish, produced in the Little Colorado River reach of the Colorado River, or are these rainbow trout immigrants that were spawned in the Lees Ferry reach? 

TFepMw

24 2.5, C 6+ 5.1.5 What is the taxonomic 

identity of the Oxyloma snails at Vasey’s Paradise? Is a change to the existing taxonomic status warranted? 

(No additional SSQ because of relatively low AMWG priority) 

AbsTwcd

25 2.5, C 6+ 5.1.6 What is the range of 

occurrence of the ambersnail taxon found at Vasey’s Paradise? [NOTE: Intended to address the issue of whether this is an endemic population or a relict population or part of a metapopulation.] 

(No additional SSQ because of relatively low AMWG priority) 

Tata

26 3, A 1 1.5.3 How has the value and 

availability of drift as a food source for Humpback chub changed 

SA 1. What are the most limiting factors to successful HBC adult recruitment in the mainstem: spawning success, predation on YoY and juveniles, habitat (water, temperature), pathogens, adult maturation, food 

Caab

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Preliminary Draft 

with the implementation of Record of Decision operations? 

availability, competition? w

27 3, A 5 2.2.7 Determine if 

implementation and operation of the TCD and/or steady flows represent a technically feasible, ecologically sustainable, and practical option for establishing mainstem spawning. 

None proposed T

cGtetwmlesadsthwthEadimhb

28 3, A 1? 2.2.10 What techniques are 

available to determine natal stream of fishes in the Colorado River ecosystem? 

None proposed I

hpqisfsin

29 3, A 1 2.2.12 What are the impacts of 

research activities on mortality, recruitment and the population size of humpback chub? 

None proposed G

to nGPinth

30 3, A 1 2.3.1 How do parasite/disease 

loads affect population 

SSQ 1-1. To what extent are adult populations of native fish controlled by production of young fish from 

11
Preliminary Draft 

viability? tributaries, spawning and incubation in the mainstem, 

survival of YoY and juvenile stages in the mainstem, or by changes in growth and maturation in the adult population as influenced by mainstem conditions? 

SA 1. What are the most limiting factors to successful HBC adult recruitment in the mainstem: spawning success, predation on YoY and juveniles, habitat (water temperature) pathogens, adult maturation, food availability, competition? 

31 3, A 1 2.4.4 What are the target 

population levels, body size and age structure for non-native fish in the Colorado River ecosystem that limit their levels to those commensurate with the viability of native fish populations? 

None proposed T

anppepR

32 3, A 1 2.4.5 What are the sources 

(natal stream) of nonnative predators and competitors? 

None proposed N

sbqqc

33 3, A 6+ 5.1.9 How can incidental take 

for Kanab ambersnail at Vasey’s Paradise be minimized? 

None proposed N

abin me

34 3, A 5 7.1.3 What are the potential 

ecological effects of increasing mainstem water temperatures? 

SSQ 1-1. To what extent are adult populations of native fish controlled by production of young fish from tributaries, spawning and incubation in the mainstem, survival of YoY and juvenile stages in the mainstem, or by changes in growth and maturation in the adult population as influenced by mainstem conditions? SSQ 5-6. Do the potential benefits of improved rearing habitat (warmer, more stable, more backwater and vegetated shorelines, more food) outweigh negative impacts due to increases in nonnative fish abundance? 

Ta

12
Preliminary Draft 

35 3, A 3 7.4.4 How does flow rate and 

fluctuation affect habitat availability and utilization by fish and other organisms? 

SSQ 1-1. To what extent are adult populations of native fish controlled by production of young fish from tributaries, spawning and incubation in the mainstem, survival of YoY and juvenile stages in the mainstem, or by changes in growth and maturation in the adult population as influenced by mainstem conditions? SSQ 1-7. Which tributary and mainstem habitats are most important to native fishes and how can these habitats best be made useable and maintained? SA 1. What are the most limiting factors to successful HBC adult recruitment in the mainstem: spawning success, predation on YoY and juveniles, habitat (water temperature) pathogens, adult maturation, food availability, competition? 

Ta

36 3, A 2 11.1.3 What are the thresholds 

triggering management actions? 

SSQ 2-1. Do dam controlled flows increase or decrease rates of erosion and vegetation growth at arch sites and TCPs, and if so, how? SSQ 2-2. How do flows impact OHWZ terraces in the CRE, and what kinds of important information about the historical ecology and human history of the CRE are being lost due to ongoing erosion of the Holocene terraces? SSQ 2-3. If flows contribute to arch site/TCP erosion, what are the optimal flows for minimizing impacts to these cultural resources? SSQ 2-4. How effective are various treatments (e.g., check dams, vegetation management, etc.) in slowing rates of erosion at archaeological sites over the long term? SSQ 2-7. Are dam controlled flows affecting TCPs and other tribally-valued resources in the CRE, and if so, in what respects are they being affected, and are those effects considered positive or negative by the tribes who value these resources? CMIN 11.1.1 (SPG revised) Determine the condition and integrity of prehistoric and historic sites in the Colorado River ecosystem through tracking rates of erosion, visitor impacts, and other relevant variables. Determine the condition and integrity of TCPs in the Colorado River ecosystem. 

TmrbrctrthhR2fcTaocinb2

13
Preliminary Draft 

37 3, A * IN 

12.1 

Develop information that can be used by the TWG, in collaboration with GCMRC, to establish current and target levels for all resources within the AMP as called for in the AMP strategic plan. 

None proposed P

Gmtato 

38 3, A 3 12.9.1 What is the impact on 

downstream resources of short-term increases to maximum flow, daily fluctuations, and downramp limits? 

New SSQ. What are the effects of ramping rates on sediment transport and sandbar stability? New SSQ. What is the rate of change in eddy storage (erosion) during time intervals between BHBFs? 

TLpsaridthwis flabSfrApd

39 3.5, Done 1 2.2.1 What is a viable 

population and what is the appropriate method to assess population viability of native fish in the Colorado River ecosystem? What is an acceptable probability of extinction over what management time period for humpback chub throughout the Colorado River ecosystem? 

None proposed P

DapaAsp

40 3.5, A 1 2.3.3 How does non-native fish SA 1. What are the most limiting factors to successful 

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Preliminary Draft 

control affect disease/parasite loads? [Note: The concept is if there are fewer hosts, there will be a lower incidence of parasites.] 

HBC adult recruitment in the mainstem: spawning success, predation on YoY and juveniles, habitat (water temperature) pathogens, adult maturation, food availability, competition? 

41 3.5, A 6+ 4.2.7 What dam release patterns 

most effectively maintain the Lees Ferry RBT trophy fishery while limiting RBT survival below the Paria River? 

SSQ 3-6. What Glen Canyon Dam operations (ramping rates, daily flow range, etc.) maximize trout fishing opportunities and catchability? 

Tas

42 3.5, A 2 11.1.2 What are the historic 

properties within the area of potential effects? 

SSQ 2-1. Do dam controlled flows increase or decrease rates of erosion and vegetation growth at arch sites and TCPs, and if so, how? SSQ 2-2. How do flows impact Old High Water Zone (OHWZ) terraces in the CRE, and what kinds of important information about the historical ecology and human history of the CRE are being lost due to ongoing erosion of the Holocene terraces? SSQ 2-7. Are dam controlled flows affecting TCPs and other tribally-valued resources in the CRE, and if so, in what respects are they being affected, and are those effects considered positive or negative by the tribes who value those resources? CMIN 11.1.1 (SPG revised) Determine the condition and integrity of prehistoric and historic sites in the Colorado River ecosystem through tracking rates of erosion, visitor impacts, and other relevant variables. Determine the condition and integrity of TCPs in the Colorado River ecosystem. 

Tthsreboinecbsathtrcacf

43 3.5, A 2 11.1.2

.a 

For each tribe and living community, what are the register eligible traditional cultural properties? 

SSQ 2-7. Are dam controlled flows affecting TCPs and other tribally-valued resources in the CRE, and if so, in what respects are they being affected, and are those effects considered positive or negative by the tribes who value those resources? 

TBRchin th

44 4, A 6+ 1.1 What are the fundamental 

trophic interactions in the 

SSQ 1-5. What are the important pathways that link lower trophic levels with fish and how will they link to 

15
Preliminary Draft 

aquatic ecosystem? dam operations? 

45 4, A 6+ 1.4 What is the current carbon 

budget for the Colorado River ecosystem? 

SSQ 1-5. What are the important pathways that link lower trophic levels with fish and how will they link to dam operations? 

46 4, A 1 2.2.2 Determine if a population 

dynamics model can effectively predict response of native fish under different flow regimes and environmental conditions. 

None proposed N

aHtera

47 4, A1 1 2.2.6 What are the criteria for 

establishment of spawning aggregations (i.e., how does one determine if it is “established”)? 

1 Normally, this RIN 

would be placed in Category C. However, pursuant to the 2001 Department of the Interior Appropriations Bill that established the power revenue cap, this RIN is placed in Category A. 

SSQ 1-1. To what extent are adult populations of native fish controlled by production of young fish from tributaries, spawning and incubation in the mainstem, survival of YoY and juvenile stages in the mainstem, or by changes in growth and maturation in the adult population as influenced by mainstem conditions? SSQ 1-7. Which tributary and mainstem habitats are most important to native fishes and how can these habitats best be made useable and maintained? SA 1. What are the most limiting factors to successful HBC adult recruitment in the mainstem: spawning success, predation on YoY and juveniles, habitat (water temperature) pathogens, adult maturation, food availability, competition? 

Td“cth

48 4, A 6+ 2.6.5 How are movement 

patterns for flannelmouth sucker, bluehead sucker, and speckled dace in the Colorado River ecosystem affected by age, natal stream, and dam operations? 

SSQ 1-1. To what extent are adult populations of native fish controlled by production of young fish from tributaries, spawning and incubation in the mainstem, survival of YoY and juvenile stages in the mainstem, or by changes in growth and maturation in the adult population as influenced by mainstem conditions? 

SFp

49 4, A 6+ 2.6.6 How is the rate of 

mortality for flannelmouth sucker, bluehead sucker, and 

SSQ 1-1. To what extent are adult populations of native fish controlled by production of young fish from tributaries, spawning and incubation in the mainstem, survival of YoY and juvenile stages in the mainstem, or 

SFp

16
Preliminary Draft 

speckled dace in the Colorado River ecosystem related to individual body size? What are the sources of mortality for flannelmouth sucker, bluehead sucker, and speckled dace in the Colorado River ecosystem? 

by changes in growth and maturation in the adult population as influenced by mainstem conditions? 

50 4, A 6+ 5.1.4 Identify and evaluate 

alternative Management Actions to ensure viability of Kanab ambersnail at Vasey’s Paradise where (1) the population dynamic model predicts loss of population viability, or (2) monitoring discovers substantial habitat or Kanab ambersnail population declines. 

(No additional SSQ because of relatively low AMWG priority) 

Urep

51 4, A 6+ 5.1.8 What are the measurable 

criteria that need to be met to remove jeopardy for Kanab ambersnail at Vasey’s Paradise? 

(No additional SSQ because of relatively low AMWG priority) 

Urep

52 4, A 6+ 6.4.1 How have the abundance, 

composition, and distribution of the sand beach community changed since dam closure (1963), high flows (1984), interim flows (1991), and the implementation of Record of Decision operations (1996)? 

(No additional SSQ because of relatively low AMWG priority) 

TvinbC

53 4, A 6+ 6.5.3 How has the abundance (No additional SSQ because of relatively low AMWG T

17
Preliminary Draft 

and distribution of nonnative species changed since dam closure (1963), high flows (1984), interim flows (1991) and the implementation of Record of Decision operations (1996)? 

priority) v

inbC

54 4, A 5 7.1.2 What are the most likely 

downstream temperature responses to a variety of scenarios involving a TCD on Glen Canyon Dam? 

SSQ 5-1. How do dam release temperatures, flows (average and fluctuating component), meteorology, canyon orientation and geometry, and reach morphology interact to determine mainstem and near shore water temperatures throughout the CRE? 

TmameAinah

55 4, A 6+ 7.2.3 Which metals should be 

measured? Where and how often? 

(No additional SSQ because of relatively low AMWG priority) 

Pre1

56 4, A 3 7.4.3 How do changes in flow 

volume and rate of change affect food base and energy productivity in the Colorado River ecosystem? 

SSQ 3-5. How is invertebrate flux affected by water quality (e.g., temperature, nutrient concentrations, turbidity) and dam operations? 

57 4, A 4 8.5.1 What elements of Record 

of Decision operations (upramp, downramp, maximum and minimum flow, MLFF, HMF, and BHBF) are most/least critical to conserving new fine-sediment inputs, and stabilizing sediment deposits above the 25,000 cfs stage? 

New SSQ. What are the effects of ramping rates on sediment transport and sandbar stability? New SSQ. What is the rate of change in eddy storage (erosion) during time intervals between BHBFs? 

SpsaHwnKTfrsfrAre

18
Preliminary Draft 

thmvDateo

58 4, A 4 ** 

SIN 

8.5.3 

What is the relationship between turbidity and biological processes? 

SSQ 3-5. How is invertebrate flux affected by water quality (e.g., temperature, nutrient concentrations, turbidity) and dam operations? 

59 4, A 4 ** 

SIN 

8.5.6 

What are the grain-size characteristics of sand bars associated with designated riparian vegetation zones? 

(No additional SSQ because of relatively low AMWG priority) 

TqsseFincpvmfucvthd

60 4, A 2 11.1.1 What are the sources of 

impacts to historic properties? 

SSQ 2-1. Do dam controlled flows increase or decrease rates of erosion and vegetation growth at arch sites and TCPs, and if so, how? SSQ 2-2. How do flows impact OHWZ terraces in the CRE, and what kinds of important information about the historical ecology and human history of the CRE are being lost due to ongoing erosion of the Holocene terraces? CMIN 11.1.1 (SPG revised) Determine the condition and integrity of prehistoric and historic sites in the Colorado River ecosystem through tracking rates of erosion, visitor impacts, and other relevant variables. Determine the condition and integrity of TCPs in the Colorado River ecosystem. 

19
Preliminary Draft 

61 4, A 2 11.1.3

.b 

How should adverse effects to historic properties be mitigated? 

SSQ 2-3. If flows contribute to arch site/TCP erosion, what are the optimal flows for minimizing impacts to these cultural resources? SSQ 2-4. How effective are various treatments (e.g., check dams, vegetation management, etc.) in slowing rates of erosion at archaeological sites over the long term? CMIN 11.1.1 (SPG revised) Determine the condition and integrity of prehistoric and historic sites in the Colorado River ecosystem through tracking rates of erosion, visitor impacts, and other relevant variables. Determine the condition and integrity of TCPs in the Colorado River ecosystem. CMIN 11.2.1 (SPG revised) Determine the condition of traditionally important resources and locations using tribal perspectives and values. 

Tmsresahs

62 4, A 2 11.2.3 Determine acceptable 

methods to preserve or treat traditionally important resources within the Colorado River ecosystem. 

SSQ 2-3. If flows contribute to arch site/TCP erosion, what are the optimal flows for minimizing impacts to these cultural resources? SSQ 2-4. How effective are various treatments (e.g., check dams, vegetation management, etc.) in slowing rates of erosion at archaeological sites over the long term? CMIN 11.1.1 (SPG revised) Determine the condition and integrity of prehistoric and historic sites in the Colorado River ecosystem through tracking rates of erosion, visitor impacts, and other relevant variables. Determine the condition and integrity of TCPs in the Colorado River ecosystem. CMIN 11.2.1 (SPG revised) Determine the condition of traditionally important resources and locations using tribal perspectives and values. 

Ta Nsrd(eehm

63 4.5, A 6+ 2.5.3 What characteristics 

define suitable habitat for razorback sucker? Does suitable habitat for razorback sucker occur in the Colorado River ecosystem? 

(No additional SSQ because of relatively low AMWG priority) 

N

64 4.5, A 6+ 2.6.4 What is the age structure, (No additional SSQ because of relatively low AMWG N

20
Preliminary Draft 

including relationship between age and size of flannelmouth sucker, bluehead sucker, and speckled dace in the Colorado River ecosystem? 

priority) 

65 4.5, A 1 4.1.3 To what extent is there 

overlap in the Lees Ferry reach of RBT habitat and native fish habitat? 

SSQ 1-1. To what extent are adult populations of native fish controlled by production of young fish from tributaries, spawning and incubation in the mainstem, survival of YoY and juvenile stages in the mainstem, or by changes in growth and maturation in the adult population as influenced by mainstem conditions? SSQ 1-7. Which tributary and mainstem habitats are most important to native fishes and how can these habitats best be made useable and maintained? SA 1. What are the most limiting factors to successful HBC adult recruitment in the mainstem: spawning success, predation on YoY and juveniles, habitat (water temperature) pathogens, adult maturation, food availability, competition? 

66 4.5, A 6+ 4.2.3 How is the rate of 

emigration of RBT from the Lees Ferry reach to below the Paria River affected by abundance, hydrology, temperature, and other ecosystem processes? 

SSQ 1-1. To what extent are adult populations of native fish controlled by production of young fish from tributaries, spawning and incubation in the mainstem, survival of YoY and juvenile stages in the mainstem, or by changes in growth and maturation in the adult population as influenced by mainstem conditions? SSQ 1-7. Which tributary and mainstem habitats are most important to native fishes and how can these habitats best be made useable and maintained? SA 1. What are the most limiting factors to successful HBC adult recruitment in the mainstem: spawning success, predation on YoY and juveniles, habitat (water temperature) pathogens, adult maturation, food availability, competition? 

HeGab

67 4.5, A 4.2.5 To what extent is there 

overlap in the Colorado River ecosystem below the Paria River of RBT habitat and native fish 

SSQ 1-1. To what extent are adult populations of native fish controlled by production of young fish from tributaries, spawning and incubation in the mainstem, survival of YoY and juvenile stages in the mainstem, or by changes in growth and maturation in the adult 

21
Preliminary Draft 

habitat? population as influenced by mainstem conditions? 

SSQ 1-7. Which tributary and mainstem habitats are most important to native fishes and how can these habitats best be made useable and maintained? SA 1. What are the most limiting factors to successful HBC adult recruitment in the mainstem: spawning success, predation on YoY and juveniles, habitat (water temperature) pathogens, adult maturation, food availability, competition? 

68 4.5, A 6+ 6.2.1 How has the patch 

number, patch distribution, composition and area of the NHWZ community changed since dam closure (1963), high flows (1984), interim flows (1991) and the implementation of Record of Decision operations (1996)? 

SSQ 2-1. Do dam controlled flows affect (increase or decrease) rates of erosion and vegetation growth at archaeological sites and TCP sites, and if so, how? CMIN 6.1.1., 6.6.1., 6.2.1, 6.5.1. Determine and track the abundance, composition, distribution, and area of terrestrial native and nonnative vegetation species in the CRE. 

VsbinbC

69 4.5, A 6+ 6.5.1 Determine if non-native 

species are expanding or contracting at a local scale (patch or reach). 

SSQ 2-1. Do dam controlled flows affect (increase or decrease) rates of erosion and vegetation growth at archaeological sites and TCP sites, and if so, how? 

VsbinbC

70 4.5, A ** 

SIN 

7.2.2 

Which water quality variables influence food base and fisheries in the Colorado River ecosystem? 

SSQ 5-2. Is invertebrate flux affected by water quality (e.g., temperature, nutrient concentrations, turbidity) and dam operations? SSQ 1-5. What are the important pathways that link lower trophic levels with fish and how will they link to dam operations? 

71 4.5, A 4 * IN 

 8.1 

If sediment cannot be preserved in the system using available management actions, what is the feasibility (including technical, legal, economic, and policy issues) of sediment 

None proposed P

Fe(

Nures

22
Preliminary Draft 

augmentation as a means of achieving this goal? 

thc

72 4.5, A 4 ** 

SIN 

8.5.4 

What is the role of turbidity and how can it be managed to achieve biological objectives? 

SSQ 3-5. How is invertebrate flux affected by water quality (e.g., temperature, nutrient concentrations, turbidity) and dam operations? 

Ais ti

73 4.5, A 8.6.2 How do ongoing inputs of 

coarse-sediment from tributaries alter the distribution of main channel habitats needed by benthic organisms within pools, runs, and eddies throughout the Colorado River ecosystem? 

SSQ 3-5. How is invertebrate flux affected by water quality (e.g., temperature, nutrient concentrations, turbidity) and dam operations? 

(Nthloth

74 4.5, A 2 11.2.1 What are traditionally 

important resources and locations for each tribe and other groups? 

SSQ 2-7. Are dam controlled flows affecting TCPs and other tribally-valued resources in the CRE, and if so, in what respects are they being affected, and are those effects considered positive or negative by the tribes who value those resources? CMIN 11.1.1 (SPG revised) Determine the condition and integrity of prehistoric and historic sites in the Colorado River ecosystem through tracking rates of erosion, visitor impacts, and other relevant variables. Determine the condition and integrity of TCPs in the Colorado River ecosystem. CMIN 11.2.1 (SPG revised) Determine the condition of traditionally important resources and locations using tribal perspectives and values. 

A1uaNinincp

75 4.5, A 2 11.2.2 What is the baseline 

measure for resource integrity? 

None proposed T

tr1arehthb

23
Preliminary Draft 

sr

76 4.5, A 12.3.1 As necessary, investigate 

the most effective methods to integrate and synthesize resource data. 

None proposed T

G

77 4.5, A 12.5.5 Identify the desired level 

of information, education, and outreach provided for Glen and Grand Canyon river users and the general public? 

None proposed A 

78 4.5, A 12.11.

1 

What are the most effective methods to maintain or attain the participation of externally-funded investigators? 

None proposed A 

79/80 

5, A 3 1.1.1/

1.1.2 

How are the composition and biomass of primary producers between Glen Canyon Dam and the Paria River affected by flow and water quality (including nutrients, temperature, light regime, toxins, dissolved oxygen), and water borne diseases, or other factors. 

SSQ 1-5. What are the important pathways that link lower trophic levels with fish and how will they link to dam operations? SSQ 1-6. Are fish populations, trends, or indicators from fish, such as growth, condition, and body composition, correlated with patterns in invertebrate flux? SSQ 5-2. Is invertebrate flux affected by water quality (e.g., temperature, nutrient concentrations, turbidity) and dam operations? 

81 5, A 3 1.1.4 What are the habitat 

characteristics between Glen Canyon Dam and the Paria River that most affect primary productivity? How are these characteristics affected by Glen Canyon Dam operations? 

SSQ 5-2. Is invertebrate flux affected by water quality (e.g., temperature, nutrient concentrations, turbidity) and dam operations? 

82 5, A 1.2 How are the production, 

composition, density, and 

SSQ 1-5. What are the important pathways that link lower trophic levels with fish and how will they link to 

24
Preliminary Draft 

biomass of the benthic invertebrate community affected by primary productivity vs. allochthonous inputs? 

dam operations? 

83 5, A 1.2.2 What is the estimated 

productivity of benthic invertebrates for the reach between Glen Canyon Dam and the Paria River? [Note: If the cost of obtaining this data, relative to the benefit of the information suggests the information is not worth the expense, this RIN will not be pursued.] 

SSQ 1-5. What are the important pathways that link lower trophic levels with fish and how will they link to dam operations? SSQ 1-6. Are fish populations, trends, or indicators from fish, such as growth, condition, and body composition, correlated with patterns in invertebrate flux? SSQ 5-2. Is invertebrate flux affected by water quality (e.g., temperature, nutrient concentrations, turbidity) and dam operations? 

84 5, A 1.3 What foodbase criteria do 

other agencies use to assess aquatic ecosystem health? 

Gpre

85 5, A 1.4.1 How are the composition 

and biomass of benthic invertebrates in the Colorado River ecosystem below the Paria River affected by flow, water quality (including nutrients, temperature, light regime, toxins, dissolved oxygen), new invasive species, and water borne diseases, or other factors? [Note: If the cost of obtaining this data, relative to the benefit of the information suggests the information is not worth the expense, this RIN will not be 

SSQ 1-5. What are the important pathways that link lower trophic levels with fish and how will they link to dam operations? SSQ 1-6. Are fish populations, trends, or indicators from fish, such as growth, condition, and body composition, correlated with patterns in invertebrate flux? SSQ 5-2. Is invertebrate flux affected by water quality (e.g., temperature, nutrient concentrations, turbidity) and dam operations? 

25
Preliminary Draft 

pursued.] 

86 5, A 1.5.2 How do top-down effects 

(grazing and predation) affect the abundance and composition of drift? 

SSQ 1-5. What are the important pathways that link lower trophic levels with fish and how will they link to dam operations? SSQ 1-6. Are fish populations, trends, or indicators from fish, such as growth, condition, and body composition, correlated with patterns in invertebrate flux? SSQ 5-2. Is invertebrate flux affected by water quality (e.g., temperature, nutrient concentrations, turbidity) and dam operations? 

87 5, A 5 2.6.7 How does temperature 

modification in the mainstem affect recruitment and mortality for flannelmouth sucker, bluehead sucker, and speckled dace originating from tributary spawning efforts? 

SSQ 1-1. To what extent are adult populations of native fish controlled by production of young fish from tributaries, spawning and incubation in the mainstem, survival of young-of-year and juvenile stages in the mainstem, or by changes in growth and maturation in the adult population as influenced by mainstem conditions? 

Mif 

88 5, A 6+ 5.1.2 What parameters have the 

greatest influence on population viability of Kanab ambersnail at Vasey’s Paradise (e.g., parasites, predation, discharges, habitat size, quality, and human use/visitation)? 

(No additional SSQ because of relatively low AMWG priority) 

Ts

89 5, A 6+ 5.1.3 Develop a population 

dynamic model to predict Kanab ambersnail viability under different flows and environmental conditions. 

None proposed N

re

90 5, A 6+ 5.2.1 How does the size, 

quality, and recovery time of Kanab ambersnail habitat change following natural scours, or other events? 

(No additional SSQ because of relatively low AMWG priority) 

Vnbao

26
Preliminary Draft 

91 5, A 6+ 6.1.1 How has the abundance, 

composition, distribution, and area of the marsh community changed since dam closure (1963), high flows (1984), interim flows (1991) and the implementation of Record of Decision operations (1996)? 

SSQ 2-1. Do dam controlled flows affect (increase or decrease) rates of erosion and vegetation growth at archaeological sites and TCP sites, and if so, how? 

Mw

92 5, A or B 6+ 6.3.2 What dam operations 

(Category A), or other management actions (Category B), have the potential to maintain the OHWZ community at the current stage elevation, or establish the community at a lower stage elevation? 

SSQ 2-1. Do dam controlled flows affect (increase or decrease) rates of erosion and vegetation growth at archaeological sites and TCP sites, and if so, how? 

Mw

93 5, A * IN 

6.4 

How much allochthonous material (e.g., leaf litter) is exchanged between the terrestrial and aquatic systems? 

SSQ 1-5. What are the important pathways that link lower trophic levels with fish and how will they link to dam operations? 

94 5, A or B 6.5.2 What dam operations 

(Category A), or other management actions (Category B), have the potential to increase or decrease the distribution and abundance of nonnative species? 

SSQ 2-1. Do dam controlled flows affect (increase or decrease) rates of erosion and vegetation growth at archaeological sites and TCP sites, and if so, how? 

Mw

95 5, A 6.6.2 Which seeps and springs 

are culturally important or occupied by rare and endemic species? 

SSQ 2-1. Do dam controlled flows affect (increase or decrease) rates of erosion and vegetation growth at archaeological sites and TCP sites, and if so, how? CMIN 6.1.1., 6.6.1., 6.2.1, 6.5.1. Determine and track the abundance, composition, distribution, and area of terrestrial native and nonnative vegetation species in the CRE. 

96 5, A 5 7.1.1 What are the desired SSQ 3-5. How is invertebrate flux affected by water 

27
Preliminary Draft 

ranges of spatial and temporal patterns of water temperatures for the Colorado River ecosystem? 

quality (e.g., temperature, nutrient concentrations, turbidity) and dam operations? SSQ 5-1. How do dam release temperatures, flows (average and fluctuating component), meteorology, canyon orientation and geometry, and reach morphology) interact to determine mainstem and near shore water temperatures throughout the CRE? SSQ 5-3. To what extent do temperature and fluctuations in flow limit spawning and incubation success for native fish? 

97 5, A 7.2.1 Which major ions should 

be measured? Where and how often? 

SSQ 3-5. How is invertebrate flux affected by water quality (e.g., temperature, nutrient concentrations, turbidity) and dam operations? SSQ 5-1. How do dam release temperatures, flows (average and fluctuating component), meteorology, canyon orientation and geometry, and reach morphology) interact to determine mainstem and near shore water temperatures throughout the CRE? SSQ 5-3. To what extent do temperature and fluctuations in flow limit spawning and incubation success for native fish? 

98 5, A ** 

SIN 

7.2.1 

How do the hydrodynamics and stratification of Lake Powell influence the food base or fisheries downstream? 

SSQ 3-5. How is invertebrate flux affected by water quality (e.g., temperature, nutrient concentrations, turbidity) and dam operations? SSQ 5-1. How do dam release temperatures, flows (average and fluctuating component), meteorology, canyon orientation and geometry, and reach morphology) interact to determine mainstem and near shore water temperatures throughout the CRE? SSQ 5-3. To what extent do temperature and fluctuations in flow limit spawning and incubation success for native fish? SSQ #5.5 Will increased water temperatures increase the incidence of Asian Tapeworm in humpback chub or the magnitude of infestation, and if so, [then] what is the 

impact on survival and growth rates? 

ToLwQinbaPfm

99 5, A 7.2.2 Which nutrients should be 

measured? Where and how often? 

SSQ 3-5. How is invertebrate flux affected by water quality (e.g., temperature, nutrient concentrations, turbidity) and dam operations? SSQ 5-1. How do dam release temperatures, flows 

Bcto

28
Preliminary Draft 

(average and fluctuating component), meteorology, canyon orientation and geometry, and reach morphology) interact to determine mainstem and near shore water temperatures throughout the CRE? SSQ 5-3. To what extent do temperature and fluctuations in flow limit spawning and incubation success for native fish? 

100 5, A 7.3.1 Develop simulation 

models for Lake Powell and the Colorado River to predict water quality conditions under various operating scenarios, supplant monitoring efforts, and elucidate understanding of the effects of dam operations, climate, and basin hydrology on Colorado River water quality. 

SSQ 5-1. How do dam release temperatures, flows (average and fluctuating component), meteorology, canyon orientation and geometry, and reach morphology) interact to determine mainstem and near shore water temperatures throughout the CRE? 

TdcoinPdum

101 5, A 3 7.4.2 What is the desired 

pattern of seasonal and annual flow dynamics associated with powerplant operations, BHBFs, HMFs, or other flows to meet AMP Goals and Objectives? 

All of the MRP Strategic Science Questions Under Priority #3, #4 and #5. 

Tcmp

102 5, A 4 8.1.1 What is the longitudinal 

variability of finesediment inputs, by reach? 

SSQ #4.1 Is there a “Flow-Only” operation (i.e. a strategy for dam releases, including managing tributary inputs with BHBFs, without sediment augmentation) that will restore and maintain sandbar habitats over decadal time scales? 

Tath(iwtrfr

103 5, A 4 8.1.2 What is the temporal 

variability of finesediment inputs, by reach? 

SSQ #4.1 Is there a “Flow-Only” operation (i.e. a strategy for dam releases, including managing tributary inputs with BHBFs, without sediment augmentation) that will restore and maintain sandbar habitats over decadal time 

Tath(i

29
Preliminary Draft 

scales? fr

red

104 5, A 4 8.1.3 

8.2.1 8.3.1 8.4.1 8.5.6 

What fine sediment abundance and distribution, by reach, is desirable to support GCDAMP ecosystem goals? [Note: Definition of “desirable” will be derived from targets for other resources and managers goals.] 

SSQ #4.1 Is there a “Flow-Only” operation (i.e. a strategy for dam releases, including managing tributary inputs with BHBFs, without sediment augmentation) that will restore and maintain sandbar habitats over decadal time scales? SSQ #4.2 How important are backwaters and vegetated shoreline habitats to the overall growth and survival of YoY and juvenile native fish? Does the long-term benefit of increasing these habitats outweigh short-term potential costs (displacement and possibly mortality of young humpback chub) associated with high flows? 

MsPparth

108 5, A 4 ** 

SIN 

8.5.2 

What is the relationship between the fine-sediment budget and turbidity? 

SSQ #4.1e Can we develop a relationship between suspended sediment concentration and turbidity to support fisheries research? 

TSK

109 5, A 4 8.5.4 What is the significance 

of aeolian processes in terrestrial sandbar reworking? 

SSQ #4.1 Is there a “Flow-Only” operation (i.e. a strategy for dam releases, including managing tributary inputs with BHBFs, without sediment augmentation) that will restore and maintain sandbar habitats over decadal time scales? 

Taarte

110 5, A 4 ** 

SIN 

8.5.5 

How can the ongoing fine sediment supply be managed to achieve sustainable habitats? 

SSQ #4.1 Is there a “Flow-Only” operation (i.e. a strategy for dam releases, including managing tributary inputs with BHBFs, without sediment augmentation) that will restore and maintain sandbar habitats over decadal time scales? 

Te2T

112 5, A 9.3.1 What is the desired target 

level of camping beaches by reach? 

None proposed M

cre(Fto 

113 5, A 3 10.1.2 What would be the effects 

on the Colorado River ecosystem and marketable capacity and energy of 

SSQ 3-4. What are the projected costs associated with the various alternative flow regimes being discussed for future experimental science (as defined in the next phase experimental design?) 

Tw

30
Preliminary Draft 

increasing the upramp and downramp limit? 

114 5, A 3 10.1.3 What would be the effects 

on the Colorado River ecosystem and marketable capacity and energy of raising the maximum power plant flow limit above 25,000 cfs? 

SSQ 3-4. What are the projected costs associated with the various alternative flow regimes being discussed for future experimental science (as defined in the next phase experimental design?) 

Ta

115 5, A 10.3.1 What are the effects of 

providing financial exception criteria? 

SSQ 3-4. What are the projected costs associated with the various alternative flow regimes being discussed for future experimental science (as defined in the next phase experimental design?) 

Ta

116 5, A 2 11.1.1

.a 

What and where are the geomorphic processes that link loss of site integrity with dam operations as opposed to dam existence or natural processes? 

2-1. Do dam controlled flows increase or decrease rates of erosion and vegetation growth at arch sites and TCPs, and if so, how? SSQ 2-2. How do flows impact OHWZ terraces in the CRE, and what kinds of important information about the historical ecology and human history of the CRE are being lost due to ongoing erosion of the Holocene terraces? SSQ 2-3. If flows contribute to arch site/TCP erosion, what are the optimal flows for minimizing impacts to these cultural resources? SSQ 2-4. How effective are various treatments (e.g., check dams, vegetation management, etc.) in slowing rates of erosion at archaeological sites over the long term? SSQ 2-7. Are dam controlled flows affecting TCPs and other tribally-valued resources in the CRE, and if so, in what respects are they being affected, and are those effects considered positive or negative by the tribes who value those resources? CMIN 11.1.1 (SPG revised) Determine the condition and integrity of prehistoric and historic sites in the Colorado River ecosystem through tracking rates of erosion, visitor impacts, and other relevant variables. Determine the condition and integrity of TCPs in the Colorado River ecosystem. 

117 5, A 2 11.1.1 What are the terrace SSQ 2-2. How do flows impact OHWZ terraces in the 

31
Preliminary Draft 

.b formation processes and 

how do dam operations affect current terrace formations processes? 

CRE, and what kinds of important information about the historical ecology and human history of the CRE are being lost due to ongoing erosion of the Holocene terraces? 

118 5, A 2 11.1.1

.c 

Determine if and where dam operations cause accelerated erosion to historic properties? 

SSQ 2-1. Do dam controlled flows increase or decrease rates of erosion and vegetation growth at arch sites and TCPs, and if so, how? SSQ 2-2. How do flows impact OHWZ terraces in the CRE, and what kinds of important information about the historical ecology and human history of the CRE are being lost due to ongoing erosion of the Holocene terraces? SSQ 2-3. If flows contribute to arch site/TCP erosion, what are the optimal flows for minimizing impacts to these cultural resources? SSQ 2-7. Are dam controlled flows affecting TCPs and other tribally-valued resources in the CRE, and if so, in what respects are they being affected, and are those effects considered positive or negative by the tribes who value those resources? 

119 5, A 2 11.1.1

.d 

What are the potential threats to historic properties relative to integrity and significance? 

2-1. Do dam controlled flows increase or decrease rates of erosion and vegetation growth at arch sites and TCPs, and if so, how? SSQ 2-2. How do flows impact OHWZ terraces in the CRE, and what kinds of important information about the historical ecology and human history of the CRE are being lost due to ongoing erosion of the Holocene terraces? SSQ 2-3. If flows contribute to arch site/TCP erosion, what are the optimal flows for minimizing impacts to these cultural resources? SSQ 2-4. How effective are various treatments (e.g., check dams, vegetation management, etc.) in slowing rates of erosion at archaeological sites over the long term? SSQ 2-7. Are dam controlled flows affecting TCPs and other tribally-valued resources in the CRE, and if so, in what respects are they being affected, and are those effects considered positive or negative by the tribes who value those resources? 

32
Preliminary Draft 

CMIN 11.1.1 (SPG revised) Determine the condition and integrity of prehistoric and historic sites in the Colorado River ecosystem through tracking rates of erosion, visitor impacts, and other relevant variables. Determine the condition and integrity of TCPs in the Colorado River ecosystem. 

120 5, A 2 11.1.2

.b 

How do specific sites meet National Register Criteria for Evaluation? 

Ta 

121 5, A 2 11.1.2

.c 

Identify AMP activities that affect National Register eligible sites? 

CMIN 11.1.1 (SPG revised) Determine the condition and integrity of prehistoric and historic sites in the Colorado River ecosystem through tracking rates of erosion, visitor impacts, and other relevant variables. Determine the condition and integrity of TCPs in the Colorado River ecosystem. 

Nthps

122 5, A 2 11.1.3

.a 

Determine the necessary information to assess resource integrity. 

CMIN 11.1.1 (SPG revised) Determine the condition and integrity of prehistoric and historic sites in the Colorado River ecosystem through tracking rates of erosion, visitor impacts, and other relevant variables. Determine the condition and integrity of TCPs in the Colorado River ecosystem. 

Rfcdadma

123 5, A 2 11.2.4 What changes are 

occurring in cultural resource sites, and what are the causes of those changes? 

2-1. Do dam controlled flows increase or decrease rates of erosion and vegetation growth at arch sites and TCPs, and if so, how? SSQ 2-2. How do flows impact OHWZ terraces in the CRE, and what kinds of important information about the historical ecology and human history of the CRE are being lost due to ongoing erosion of the Holocene terraces? SSQ 2-3. If flows contribute to arch site/TCP erosion, what are the optimal flows for minimizing impacts to these cultural resources? SSQ 2-4. How effective are various treatments (e.g., check dams, vegetation management, etc.) in slowing rates of erosion at archaeological sites over the long term? SSQ 2-7. Are dam controlled flows affecting TCPs and other tribally-valued resources in the CRE, and if so, in 

33
Preliminary Draft 

what respects are they being affected, and are those effects considered positive or negative by the tribes who value those resources? CMIN 11.1.1 (SPG revised) Determine the condition and integrity of prehistoric and historic sites in the Colorado River ecosystem through tracking rates of erosion, visitor impacts, and other relevant variables. Determine the condition and integrity of TCPs in the Colorado River ecosystem. 

124 5, A 12.3.2 What are the differences 

between western science and tribal processes for design of studies and for gathering, analyzing, and interpreting data used in the adaptive management program? How well do research designs and work plans incorporate Tribal perspectives and values into the standard western science paradigm? Is it more beneficial to keep the perspective separated? 

SSQ 2-7. Are dam controlled flows affecting TCPs and other tribally-valued resources in the CRE, and if so, in what respects are they being affected, and are those effects considered positive or negative by the tribes who value those resources? CMIN 11.2.1 (SPG revised) Determine the condition of traditionally important resources and locations using tribal perspectives and values. 

125 5, A 12.3.3 How effective is the AMP 

in addressing the EIS statement “Long-term monitoring and research are ... implemented to measure how well the selected alternative meets resource management objectives.”? 

None Proposed P

SaApM

126 5, A 12.5.1 What are the most 

effective means to build AMP public support through effective public outreach? 

None Proposed A 

127 5, A 12.5.2 What are the most 

effective means to attain 

None Proposed T

b

34
Preliminary Draft 

and maintain effective communication and coordination with other resource management programs in the Colorado River basin to ensure consideration of their values and perspectives into the AMP and vice versa? 

osaeto 

128 5, A 12.5.4 What is the most effective 

way to distribute information to our stakeholders and the public in a secure and accessible fashion? 

None Proposed A 

MaduAeto 

129 5, A 12.7.1 How effective are the 

current strategies to achieve tribal consultation? 

None Proposed P

P

130 5, A 12.7.2 How well do the current 

strategies to achieve tribal consultation meet legal and AMP protocols? 

None Proposed P

P

131 5, A 12.8.1 How well does current 

tribal participation in the AMP research and longterm monitoring programs meet tribal needs and desires? 

None Proposed F

win

132 5.5, A 1.2.4 What are the habitat 

characteristics between Glen Canyon Dam and the Paria River that most affect benthic invertebrates? How are these characteristics affected by Glen Canyon 

SSQ 1-5. What are the important pathways that link lower trophic levels with fish and how will they link to dam operations? SSQ 5-2. Is invertebrate flux affected by water quality (e.g., temperature, nutrient concentrations, turbidity) and dam operations? 

35
Preliminary Draft 

Dam operations? 

133 5.5, A 1.3.1 How are the composition 

and biomass of primary producers in the Colorado River ecosystem below the Paria River affected by flow and water quality (including nutrients, temperature, light regime, toxins, dissolved oxygen), and water borne diseases, or other factors. 

SSQ 1-5. What are the important pathways that link lower trophic levels with fish and how will they link to dam operations? SSQ 5-2. Is invertebrate flux affected by water quality (e.g., temperature, nutrient concentrations, turbidity) and dam operations? 

134 5.5, A 1.4.3 How do top-down effects 

(grazing and predation) affect the abundance and composition of benthic invertebrates? 

SSQ 1-6. Are fish populations, trends, or indicators from fish, such as growth, condition, and body composition, correlated with patterns in invertebrate flux? 

135 5.5, A 1.5.1 How are the composition 

and biomass of drift in the Colorado River ecosystem affected by flow and water quality (including nutrients, temperature, light regime, toxins, dissolved oxygen), and water borne diseases, or other factors? 

SSQ 1-5. What are the important pathways that link lower trophic levels with fish and how will they link to dam operations? SSQ 5-2. Is invertebrate flux affected by water quality (e.g., temperature, nutrient concentrations, turbidity) and dam operations? 

136 5.5, A 4.2.4 What is the target 

population size of RBT appropriate for the Lees Ferry reach that limits downstream emigration? 

SSQ 3-6. What Glen Canyon Dam operations (ramping rates, daily flow range, etc.) maximize trout fishing opportunities and catchability? CMIN 4.1.2. Determine annual proportional stock density of rainbow trout in the Lees Ferry reach. CMIN 4.1.4. Determine annual standard condition and relative weight of rainbow trout in the Lees Ferry reach. 

TaP

137 5.5, A 6.3.1 How has the abundance, 

composition, and distribution of the OHWZ community changed since dam closure (1963), high flows (1984), interim 

SSQ 2-1. Do dam controlled flows affect (increase or decrease) rates of erosion and vegetation growth at archaeological sites and TCP sites, and if so, how? CMIN 6.1.1., 6.6.1., 6.2.1, 6.5.1. Determine and track the abundance, composition, distribution, and area of terrestrial native and nonnative vegetation species in the 

36
Preliminary Draft 

flows (1991), and the implementation of Record of Decision operations (1996)? 

CRE. 

138 5.5, A 6.7.5 What is the need, 

feasibility, and priority of maintaining habitat suitability for southwestern willow flycatcher in the Colorado River ecosystem? 

None Proposed N

rUth

139 5.5, A 8.5.2 What is the reach-scale 

variability of finesediment storage throughout the main channel? 

SSQ #4.1 (see above) T

pfi(GFu

140 5.5, A 8.5.5 What are the historic and 

ongoing longitudinal trends of fine-sediment storage, above 25,000 cfs? 

SSQ #4.1 (see above) T

pfi(GFu

141 5.5, A ** 

SIN 

8.5.7 

What are the limiting factors that regulate substrate availability and its distribution? 

SSQ #4.1 (see above) C

sofl

142 5.5, A 9.4.1 Identify the elements of 

wilderness experience specific to the Colorado River ecosystem. 

SSQ 3-7. How do dam controlled flows affect visitor experiences, and what are the optimal flows for maintaining a high quality recreational experience in the CRE? SSQ 3-8. What are the drivers for recreational experience in the CRE, and how important are flows relative to other drivers in shaping recreational experience? SSQ 3-12. How do flow regimes positively or negatively affect group encounter rates, campsite competition, and other social parameters that are known to be important 

NwwInao

37
Preliminary Draft 

variables of visitor experience? 

143 5.5, A 10.1.4 What would be the effects 

on the Colorado River ecosystem and marketable capacity and energy of lowering the minimum flow limit below 5,000 cfs? 

None Proposed T

a

144 5.5, A 11.1.2

.d 

Identify NPS permitted activities that affect National Register eligible sites. 

None Proposed N

thp

145 5.5, A 11.1.5 What are appropriate 

strategies to preserve resource integrity? 

SSQ 2-4. How effective are various treatments (e.g., check dams, vegetation management, etc.) in slowing rates of erosion at archaeological sites over the long term? 

Spmd

146 6, A 1.1.3 How do top-down effects 

(grazing and predation) on primary producers affect food base productivity? 

SSQ 1-5. What are the important pathways that link lower trophic levels with fish and how will they link to dam operations? SSQ 5-2. Is invertebrate flux affected by water quality (e.g., temperature, nutrient concentrations, turbidity) and dam operations? 

147 6, A 1.2.3 How do top-down effects 

(grazing and predation) affect the abundance and composition of benthic invertebrates? 

SSQ 1-5. What are the important pathways that link lower trophic levels with fish and how will they link to dam operations? SSQ 5-2. Is invertebrate flux affected by water quality (e.g., temperature, nutrient concentrations, turbidity) and dam operations? 

148 6, A 1.3.3 How do top-down effects 

on primary producers (grazing and predation) affect food base productivity? 

SSQ 1-5. What are the important pathways that link lower trophic levels with fish and how will they link to dam operations? SSQ 5-2. Is invertebrate flux affected by water quality (e.g., temperature, nutrient concentrations, turbidity) and dam operations? 

149 6, A 1.3.4 What are the habitat 

characteristics in the Colorado River ecosystem below the Paria River that most affect primary productivity? How are 

SSQ 1-5. What are the important pathways that link lower trophic levels with fish and how will they link to dam operations? SSQ 5-2. Is invertebrate flux affected by water quality (e.g., temperature, nutrient concentrations, turbidity) and dam operations? 

38
Preliminary Draft 

these characteristics affected by Glen Canyon Dam operations? 

150 6, A 1.4.4 What are the habitat 

characteristics in the Colorado River ecosystem below the Paria River that most affect benthic invertebrates? How are these characteristics affected by Glen Canyon Dam operations? 

SSQ 1-5. What are the important pathways that link lower trophic levels with fish and how will they link to dam operations? SSQ 5-2. Is invertebrate flux affected by water quality (e.g., temperature, nutrient concentrations, turbidity) and dam operations? 

151 6, A 2.2.11 What are the impacts of 

current recreational activities on mortality, recruitment and the population size of humpback chub? 

None Proposed N

thCsTd

152 6, A 2.6.3 What are the physical and 

biological characteristics of habitats that enhance recruitment of flannelmouth sucker, bluehead sucker, and speckled dace populations in the Colorado River ecosystem? 

SSQ 1-1. To what extent are adult populations of native fish controlled by production of young fish from tributaries, spawning and incubation in the mainstem, survival of young-of-year and juvenile stages in the mainstem, or by changes in growth and maturation in the adult population as influenced by mainstem conditions? 

153 6, A *IN 

6.1 

Develop GIS coverages of natural communities in the Colorado River ecosystem to use in identification of status and trends. 

SSQ 2-1. Do dam controlled flows affect (increase or decrease) rates of erosion and vegetation growth at archaeological sites and TCP sites, and if so, how? CMIN 6.1.1., 6.6.1., 6.2.1, 6.5.1. Determine and track the abundance, composition, distribution, and area of terrestrial native and nonnative vegetation species in the CRE. 

Tbaao

154 6, A *IN 

6.3 

How is the abundance of vertebrate consumers affected by seasonal shifts in food base abundance in the Colorado River ecosystem? 

SSQ 1-5. What are the important pathways that link lower trophic levels with fish and how will they link to dam operations? SSQ 5-2. Is invertebrate flux affected by water quality (e.g., temperature, nutrient concentrations, turbidity) and dam operations? 

39
Preliminary Draft 

155 6, A ** 

SIN 

7.3.1 

Measure appropriate water quality parameters to determine the influence of these parameters on biological resources in the Colorado River ecosystem. 

SSQ 3-5. How is invertebrate flux affected by water quality (e.g., temperature, nutrient concentrations, turbidity) and dam operations? SSQ 5-1. How do dam release temperatures, flows (average and fluctuating component), meteorology, canyon orientation and geometry, and reach morphology) interact to determine mainstem and near shore water temperatures throughout the CRE? 

156 6, A ** 

SIN 

8.5.8 

What is the total area of different aquatic habitat types (cobble, gravel, sand, talus, etc,) in the Colorado River ecosystem? 

None Proposed T

bin sser

157 6, A ** 

SIN 

8.5.9 

How are sandbar textures related to cultural site stability? 

None Proposed T

qs

158 6, A 10.1.1 What would be the effects 

on the Colorado River ecosystem and marketable capacity and energy of increasing the daily fluctuation limit? 

SSQ 3-4. What are the projected costs associated with the various alternative flow regimes being discussed for future experimental science (as defined in the next phase experimental design?) 

Tth

159 6, A 10.4.1 What are the effects on 

the Colorado River ecosystem and marketable power and energy of increasing Automatic Generation Control at Glen Canyon Dam? 

SSQ 3-4. What are the projected costs associated with the various alternative flow regimes being discussed for future experimental science (as defined in the next phase experimental design?) 

Tth

160 6, A 12.5.3 To what extent does the 

public understand and support the GCDAMP? 

None Proposed A 

161 6.5, A 5.1.1 What constitutes 

population viability for Kanab ambersnail at Vasey’s Paradise? 

None Proposed M

qqwC

162 6.5, A 5.2.3 How can remote sensing None Proposed N

40
Preliminary Draft 

technologies be used to less intrusively and more cost effectively characterize and monitor Kanab ambersnail habitat at Vasey’s Paradise (vegetation type and distribution)? 

p

163 6.5, A *IN 

6.2 

Develop or adopt an existing ecological community classification system. The system should describe the composition and frequency of vascular plants, vertebrates, arthropods, and mollusks to an appropriate taxonomic level. 

SSQ 2-1. Do dam controlled flows affect (increase or decrease) rates of erosion and vegetation growth at archaeological sites and TCP sites, and if so, how? CMIN 6.1.1., 6.6.1., 6.2.1, 6.5.1. Determine and track the abundance, composition, distribution, and area of terrestrial native and nonnative vegetation species in the CRE. 

164 6.5, A 7.2.4 What are the water-borne 

pathogens that are a threat to human health? How should they be monitored? Where and how often? 

SSQ 3-7. How do dam controlled flows affect visitors’ recreational experiences, and what are the optimal flows for maintaining a high quality recreational experience in the CRE? SSQ 3-11. How do varying flows positively or negatively affect visitor safety, health, and navigability of the rapids? CMIN 9.1.1 Determine and track the changes attributable to dam operations in recreational quality, opportunities and use, impacts, serious incidents, and perceptions of users, including the level of satisfaction, in the Colorado River ecosystem. 

165 6.5, A 8.6.1 How do ongoing inputs of 

coarse-sediment from tributaries influence storage of fine sediment within pools, runs and eddies throughout the Colorado River ecosystem? 

None Proposed W

oaaU“SA

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Preliminary Draft 

166 7, A 9.5.1 What effects do 

administrative trips, including research and monitoring activities have on recreational users? 

CMIN 9.5.1 Determine and track the frequency and scheduling of research and monitoring activity in Glen and Grand Canyons. 

Cms

167 7, A * IN 

10.1 

Determine and track the impacts to power users from implementation of Record of Decision dam operations and segregate those effects from other causes such as changes in the power market. 

SSQ 3-3. What are the hydropower replacement costs of the MLFF (annually, since 1996?) CMIN 10.1.1 Determine and track the marketable capacity and energy produced through dam operations in relation to various release scenarios. 

168 7.5, A 7.3.1.

a 

Determine the status and trends of chemical and biological components of water quality in Lake Powell as a function of regional hydrologic conditions and their relation to downstream releases. 

(No additional SSQ because of relatively low AMWG priority) 

ApNhbLidhethwTaPF

169 7.5, A ** 

SIN 

8.5.10 

How are sandbar textures related to recreational site stability? 

Tqs

170 8, A 1.3.2 What is the estimated 

primary productivity in the Colorado River ecosystem below the Paria River? [Note: If the cost of obtaining this data, relative to the benefit of the information suggests the information 

SSQ 1-5. What are the important pathways that link lower trophic levels with fish and how will they link to dam operations? SSQ 3-5. How is invertebrate flux affected by water quality (e.g., temperature, nutrient concentrations, turbidity) and dam operations? SSQ 5-1. How do dam release temperatures, flows (average and fluctuating component), meteorology, canyon orientation and geometry, and reach morphology) 

42
Preliminary Draft 

is not worth the expense, this RIN will not be pursued.] 

interact to determine mainstem and near shore water temperatures throughout the CRE? SSQ 5-2. Is invertebrate flux affected by water quality (e.g., temperature, nutrient concentrations, turbidity) and dam operations? 

171 8, A 1.4.2 What is the estimated 

productivity of benthic invertebrates in the Colorado River ecosystem below the Paria River? [Note: If the cost of obtaining this data, relative to the benefit of the information suggests the information is not worth the expense, this RIN will not be pursued.] 

SSQ 1-5. What are the important pathways that link lower trophic levels with fish and how will they link to dam operations? SSQ 3-5. How is invertebrate flux affected by water quality (e.g., temperature, nutrient concentrations, turbidity) and dam operations? SSQ 5-1. How do dam release temperatures, flows (average and fluctuating component), meteorology, canyon orientation and geometry, and reach morphology) interact to determine mainstem and near shore water temperatures throughout the CRE? SSQ 5-2. Is invertebrate flux affected by water quality (e.g., temperature, nutrient concentrations, turbidity) and dam operations? 

172 8, A 2.5.4 What is the feasibility and 

advisability of augmenting razorback sucker in the Colorado River ecosystem to attain a viable population including technical/legal/policy constraints? 

None Proposed N

173 8, A 6.7.1 What is the function of 

the Colorado River ecosystem as a migratory corridor for southwestern willow flycatcher? 

None Proposed S

m

174 8, A 6.7.2 What is the foodbase that 

supports southwestern willow flycatcher and other terrestrial vertebrates? 

None Proposed S

m

175 8, Done 6.7.3 What constitutes suitable 

southwestern willow 

None Proposed T

U

43
Preliminary Draft 

flycatcher habitat? d

176 8.5, A 6.6.3 How has the composition, 

abundance and distribution of seep and spring communities changed since dam closure (1963), high flows (1984), interim flows (1991) and the implementation of Record of Decision operations (1996)? 

SSQ 2-1. Do dam controlled flows affect (increase or decrease) rates of erosion and vegetation growth at archaeological sites and TCP sites, and if so, how? CMIN 6.1.1., 6.6.1., 6.2.1, 6.5.1. Determine and track the abundance, composition, distribution, and area of terrestrial native and nonnative vegetation species in the CRE. 

TvF

177 9, A 1.1.2 What is the estimated 

productivity for the reach between Glen Canyon Dam and the Paria River? [Note: If the cost of obtaining this data, relative to the benefit of the information suggests the information is not worth the expense, this RIN will not be pursued.] 

SSQ 1-5. What are the important pathways that link lower trophic levels with fish and how will they link to dam operations? SSQ 3-5. How is invertebrate flux affected by water quality (e.g., temperature, nutrient concentrations, turbidity) and dam operations? SSQ 5-1. How do dam release temperatures, flows (average and fluctuating component), meteorology, canyon orientation and geometry, and reach morphology) interact to determine mainstem and near shore water temperatures throughout the CRE? SSQ 5-2. Is invertebrate flux affected by water quality (e.g., temperature, nutrient concentrations, turbidity) and dam operations? 

178 9, A 2.5.5 What are the genetic and 

ecological criteria for reintroducing razorback sucker into the Colorado River ecosystem? 

(No additional SSQ because of relatively low AMWG priority) 

N

179 9, A 4.1.2 What is the minimum 

quantity and quality of spawning substrate necessary for maintaining a wild reproducing rainbow trout population in the Lees Ferry reach? 

SSQ 3-6. What Glen Canyon Dam operations (ramping rates, daily flow range, etc.) maximize trout fishing opportunities and catchability? 

Cmbmf

180 9, C 5.1.7 What is the historic range 

of Oxyloma haydeni? 

(No additional SSQ because of relatively low AMWG priority) 

CU

44
Preliminary Draft 

Can this range be determined from subfossil or fossil evidence? [NOTE: This is intended to determine if this is a relict species and the initial work would be done at Vasey’s Paradise, South Canyon and other probable sites within the Colorado River ecosystem.] 

inmf

181 9, A 6.6.1 How is seep and spring 

habitat affected by variation in dam operations, variation in seep or spring flow, and variation in water quality? How do flow rates and water quality parameters at seeps and springs compare with historic measurements? 

SSQ 2-1. Do dam controlled flows affect (increase or decrease) rates of erosion and vegetation growth at archaeological sites and TCP sites, and if so, how? 

CsdlowooeCw

182 9, A 6.6.4 What is the distribution, 

patch size, total area, and composition of seep and spring communities and the flow rate and water quality of all seeps and springs within the Colorado River ecosystem? 

None Proposed C

sdlowooeCw

183 9, A 6.7.4 How has the abundance, 

distribution and reproductive success of southwestern willow flycatcher changed since dam closure (1963), high flows (1984), interim 

None Proposed S

m

45
Preliminary Draft 

flows (1991) and the implementation of Record of Decision operations (1996)? 

184 9, A 7.3.3 How do dam operations 

affect reservoir limnology? 

(No additional SSQ because of relatively low AMWG priority) 

Tqfu

185 9, A ** 

SIN 

8.5.1 

How do sandbar textures influence biological processes? 

(No additional SSQ because of relatively low AMWG priority) 

Tqs

186 9.5, C 3.1.1 What information 

(including technical, legal, economic, and policy issues) should be considered in determining the feasibility and advisability of restoring pikeminnow, bonytail, roundtail chub, river otter, or other extirpated species? 

None Proposed P

If thGs

187 9.5, A 8.5.3 What is the pre- and postdam range of grain-size in 

fine-sediment deposits, by reach? 

None Proposed S

inaG2a

188 10, A 4.1.1 What is the target 

proportional stock density (i.e., trade-off between numbers and size) for rainbow trout in the Lees Ferry reach? 

None Proposed T

mms

189 10, A 4.1.4 How does the genetics or 

“strain” of rainbow trout in the Lees Ferry reach influence the average size of fish creeled by anglers? 

(No additional SSQ because of relatively low AMWG priority) 

Tc

190 11, A 2.5.1 If razorback suckers were 

stocked into the Colorado 

(No additional SSQ because of relatively low AMWG priority) 

Ra

46
Preliminary Draft 

River ecosystem, what is the risk that hybridization with flannelmouth suckers would compromise the genetic integrity of either species? 

191 11, A 2.5.2 How does existing 

hybridization between razorback suckers and flannelmouth suckers affect the genetic integrity of either species? What are the factors contributing to this ongoing hybridization? 

None Proposed R

aaathhto 

192 11, C 2.5.6 What are the measurable 

criteria that would need to be met to remove jeopardy for razorback sucker in the Colorado River ecosystem? 

None Proposed P

193 11, A 7.3.2 How accurately can 

modeling predict reservoir dynamics and operational scenarios? 

None Proposed N

fuis BdPbreTq

194 11, A 9.1.1 What are the attributes of 

a quality river experience? (How do you define a quality river experience?) 

SSQ 3-7. How do dam controlled flows affect visitors’ recreational experiences, and what are the optimal flows for maintaining a high quality recreational experience in the CRE? SSQ 3-8. What are the drivers for recreational experiences in the CRE, and how important are flows relative to other drivers in shaping recreational experience outcomes? (See also SSQ 3-9, 3-10, 3-11, and 3-12.) 

TdcpriNe

47
Preliminary Draft 

195 11, A 9.1.2 Determine the appropriate 

carrying capacity for recreational activities within the Colorado River ecosystem. 

None Proposed A

debcthactaeehere

196 11, A 9.1.3 How do ongoing inputs of 

coarse-sediment from tributaries diminish or enhance navigability of rapids throughout the Colorado River ecosystem? 

SSQ 3-10. How can safety and navigability be reliably measured relative to flows? SSQ 3-11. How do varying flows positively or negatively affect visitor safety, health, and navigability of the rapids? 

Tapd

197 11, A 12.1.2 What are the use (e.g., 

hydropower, trout fishing, rafting) and non-use (e.g., option, vicarious, quasioption, bequest and existence) values of the Colorado River ecosystem 

None Proposed A 

P

198 11, A 12.1.3 How does use (e.g., 

hydropower, trout fishing, rafting) and non-use (e.g., option, vicarious, quasioption, bequest and existence) values change in response to an experiment performed under the Record of Decision, unanticipated event, or other management action? 

SSQ 3-4. What are the projected costs associated with the various alternative flow regimes being discussed for future experimental science (as defined in the next phase experimental design?) 

48
Preliminary Draft 

199 11.5, A 7.3.1.

b 

Determine stratification, convective mixing patterns, and behavior of advective currents in Lake Powell and their relation to Glen Canyon Dam operations to predict seasonal patterns and trends in downstream releases. 

None Proposed S

aBA

200 11.5, A 7.4.1 What is the desired range 

of seasonal and annual flow dynamics associated with powerplant operations, BHBFs, and habitat maintenance flows, or other flows that meet AMP goals and objectives? 

None Proposed T

sf

201 11.5, A 10.1.5 How do power-marketing 

contract provisions affect Glen Canyon Dam releases? 

None Proposed N

202 11.5, A 12.1.1 What is the economic 

value of the recreational use of the Colorado River ecosystem downstream from Glen Canyon Dam? 

None Proposed N

203 No 

Sequence Order, A 

* IN 

12.2 

Determine what information is necessary and sufficient to make recommendations at an acceptable level of risk. 

None Proposed U

dw

49
Preliminary Draft 

CATEGORY EIN NO. EIN TEXT A 1.1.1 How does primary productivity for the reach between Glen Canyon 

Dam and the Paria River change in response to an experiment 

performed under the Record of Decision, unanticipated event, or other management action? 

A 1.2.1 How do benthic invertebrates in the reach between Glen Canyon Dam 

and the Paria River change in response to an experiment performed under the Record of Decision, unanticipated event, or other management action? 

A 1.3.1 How does primary productivity in the Colorado River ecosystem below 

the Paria River change in response to an experiment performed under the Record of Decision, unanticipated event, or other management action? 

A 1.4.1 How do benthic invertebrates in the Colorado River ecosystem below 

the Paria River change in response to an experiment performed under the Record of Decision, unanticipated event, or other management action? 

A 1.5.1 How does drift in the Colorado River ecosystem change in response to 

an experiment performed under the Record of Decision, unanticipated event, or other management action? 

A 2.1.1 How does the abundance and distribution of all size classes of HBC in 

the LCR and mainstem change in response to an experiment performed under the Record of Decision, unanticipated event, or other management action? 

A 2.1.2 How does the year class strength of HBC (51 – 150 mm) in the LCR 

and mainstem change in response to an experiment performed under the Record of Decision, unanticipated event, or other management action? 

A 2.1.3 How does the abundance and distribution of recruiting HBC in the LCR 

and mainstem change in response to an experiment performed under the Record of Decision, unanticipated event, or other management action? 

50
Preliminary Draft 

A 2.3.1 How do disease/parasite loads on HBC and other native fish found in 

the LCR and in the Colorado River ecosystem change in response to an experiment performed under the Record of Decision, unanticipated event, or other management action? 

A 2.4.1 How does the abundance and distribution of non-native predatory fish 

species and their impacts on native fish species in the Colorado River ecosystem change in response to an experiment performed under the Record of Decision, unanticipated event, or other management action? 

A 2.6.1 How does the abundance, distribution, recruitment and mortality of 

flannelmouth sucker, bluehead sucker and speckled dace populations in the Colorado River ecosystem change in response to an experiment performed under the Record of Decision, unanticipated event, or other 

management action? 

A 4.1.1 How does RBT abundance, proportional stock density, length at age, 

condition, spawning habitat, natural recruitment, whirling disease and other parasitic infections change in response to an experiment performed under the Record of Decision, unanticipated event, or other management action? 

A 5.1.1 How does Kanab ambersnail population abundance and recovery 

change in response to an experiment performed under the Record of 

Decision, unanticipated event, or other management action? 

A 5.2.1 How does Kanab ambersnail habitat at Vasey’s Paradise change in 

response to an experiment performed under the Record of Decision, unanticipated event, or other management action? 

A 6.1.1 How do marsh community abundance, composition, distribution, and 

area change in response to an experiment performed under the Record of Decision, unanticipated event, or other management action? 

A 6.2.1 How does the patch number, patch distribution, composition and area of 

the NHWZ community change in response to an experiment performed under the Record of Decision, unanticipated event, or other management action? 

A 6.3.1 How do the abundance, composition, and distribution of the OHWZ 

community change in response to an experiment performed under the 

51
Preliminary Draft 

Record of Decision, unanticipated event, or other management action? 

A 6.4.1 How does the abundance, composition, and distribution of the sand 

beach community change in response to an experiment performed under the Record of Decision, unanticipated event, or other management action? 

A 6.5.1 How does the abundance and distribution of non-native species change 

in response to an experiment performed under the Record of Decision, unanticipated event, or other management action? 

A 6.6.1 How do the composition, abundance, and distribution of seep and spring 

communities change in response to an experiment performed under the Record of Decision, unanticipated event, or other management action? 

A 6.7.1 How do the abundance, distribution and reproductive success of 

southwestern willow flycatcher change in response to an experiment performed under the Record of Decision, unanticipated event, or other management action? 

A 7.1.1 How does water temperature change in response to an experiment 

performed under the Record of Decision, unanticipated event, or other management action? 

A 7.3.1 How does the water quality of releases from Glen Canyon Dam change 

in response to an experiment performed under the Record of Decision, unanticipated event, or other management action? 

A 8.1.1 How do fine sediment abundance, grain-size, and distribution in the 

main channel below 5,000 cfs change in response to an experiment performed under the Record of Decision, unanticipated event, or other management action? 

A 8.2.1 How does fine sediment abundance, grain-size, and distribution within 

channel margins (not eddies) from 5,000 to 25,000 cfs change in response to an experiment performed under the Record of Decision, unanticipated event, or other management action? 

A 8.3.1 How does fine sediment abundance, grain-size, and distribution, within 

eddies below 5,000 cfs change in response to an experiment performed under the Record of Decision, unanticipated event, or other management 

52
Preliminary Draft 

action? 

A 8.4.1 How does fine sediment abundance, grain-size, and distribution, within 

eddies between 5,000 to 25,000 cfs change in response to an experiment 

performed under the Record of Decision, unanticipated event, or other management action? 

A 8.5.1 How does fine sediment abundance, grain-size, and distribution on 

shorelines between 25,000 cfs and the uppermost effects of maximum dam releases change in response to an experiment performed under the Record of Decision, unanticipated event, or other management action? 

A 8.6.1 How does coarse sediment (greater than 2mm) abundance, grain-size 

and distribution change in response to an experiment performed under the Record of Decision, unanticipated event, or other management action? 

A 9.1.1 How do recreational use trends, impacts, and perceptions change in 

response to an experiment performed under the Record of Decision, unanticipated event, or other management action? 

A 9.3.1 How do the size, quality, and distribution of camping beaches change in 

response to an experiment performed under the Record of Decision, 

unanticipated event, or other management action? 

A 11.1.1 Determine the effects of experimental flows on historic properties. A 11.3.1 Determine if and how experimental flows and other AMP actions 

restrict tribal access. 

A 11.3.2 Determine reasonable management actions that should be taken to 

facilitate tribal access. 

53
Preliminary Draft 

SEQUENCE CATEGORY IN NO. IN TEXT 3 A 12.1 Develop information that can be used by the TWG, in 

collaboration with GCMRC, to establish current and target levels for all resources within the AMP as called for in the AMP strategic plan. 

4.5 A 8.1 If sediment cannot be preserved in the system using 

available management actions, what is the feasibility (including technical, legal, economic, and policy issues) of sediment augmentation as a means of achieving this goal? 

5 A 6.4 How much allochthonous material (e.g., leaf litter) is 

exchanged between the terrestrial and aquatic systems? 

6 A 6.1 Develop GIS coverages of natural communities in the 

Colorado River ecosystem to use in identification of status and trends. 

6 A 6.3 How is the abundance of vertebrate consumers affected by 

seasonal shifts in food base abundance in the Colorado River ecosystem? 

6.5 A 6.2 Develop or adopt an existing ecological community 

classification system. The system should describe the composition and frequency of vascular plants, vertebrates, arthropods, and mollusks to an appropriate taxonomic level. 

7 A 10.1 Determine and track the impacts to power users from 

implementation of Record of Decision dam operations and segregate those effects from other causes such as changes in the power market. 

? A 12.2 Determine what information is necessary and sufficient to 

make recommendations at an acceptable level of risk. 

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Preliminary Draft 

SEQUENCE # 

CATEGORY SIN NO: SIN TEXT 

4 A 8.5.3 What is the relationship between turbidity and biological 

processes? 

4 A 8.5.6 What is the relationship between turbidity and biological 

processes? 

4.5 A 7.2.2 Which water quality variables influence food base and 

fisheries in the Colorado River ecosystem? 

4.5 A 8.5.4 What is the role of turbidity and how can it be managed 

to achieve biological objectives? 

5 A 7.2.1 How do the hydrodynamics and stratification of Lake 

Powell influence the food base or fisheries downstream? 

5 A 8.5.2 What is the relationship between the fine-sediment 

budget and turbidity? 

5 A 8.5.5 How can the ongoing fine sediment supply be managed 

to achieve sustainable habitats? 

5.5 A 8.5.7 What are the limiting factors that regulate substrate 

availability and its distribution? 

6 A 7.3.1 Measure appropriate water quality parameters to 

determine the influence of these parameters on biological resources in the Colorado River ecosystem. 

6 A 8.5.8 What is the total area of different aquatic habitat types 

(cobble, gravel, sand, talus, etc,) in the Colorado River ecosystem? 

6 A 8.5.9 How are sandbar textures related to cultural site stability?7.5 A 8.5.10 How are sandbar textures related to recreational site 

stability? 

9 A 8.5.1 How do sandbar textures influence biological processes? 

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Preliminary Draft 

56
Preliminary Draft 

Appendix A 

TWG Minority Report concerning the Monitoring and Research Plan to 

Support GCDAMP FY2007-11 concerning recommendation to AMWG for 

adoption of the MRP (Vote of 11/9/2006) 

Eight TGW members either voted against (6) or abstained from voting (2) to approve the 

09/13/2006 draft GCMRC MRP. This minority believes that the current MRP draft has several 

significant deficiencies as specified below: 

o Unclear relationship between the AMP Strategic Plan (and prioritized RINs) and the 

proposed strategic science questions posed in the MRP. A great deal of time was spent on 

development of the Strategic Plan and the MRP effort should add more detail and not redirect 

priorities or thei focus. r.

o Unclear relationship between the strategic science questions and the proposed GCMRC 

science programs (for the next five years). 

o The core monitoring development process did not follow the process developed and 

recommended by the core monitoring team. 

o The Humpback chub science questions and information needs only partially address the HBC 

questions and needs and those identified are not the top priorities. The top priorities identified 

were protection of the HBC in refuges the monitoring of HBC population size and composition 

in order to determine if recovery is being achieved. It is noted that the top priorities should be 

part of a separate recovery program and we agree. We would also note that all activities 

associated with the HBC should be part of a separate recovery program, the foundation for 

which is being developed as part of the Humpback chub management plan. The MRP should 

address the top HBC priorities or defer all HBC related activities to a separate recovery 

program. If tasks are going to be divided out, a much clearer description of how they will 

interface and work together is required. 

o The sediment questions fail to provide a monitoring plan that will lead to the identification of the 

sediment lost or redistributed outside the primary study reach as a result of a BHBF. 

o The five year food base program does not address how fluctuating flows affect production and 

delivery of the food base. As a result, a subgroup of stakeholders: Arizona Game and Fish, 

Western Area Power Administration, SWCA and Argonne National Labs, Federation of Fly 

Fishers and Arizona Wildlands Council provided a proposed science plan to GCMRC to 

expand or amend their program. This science plan, directed at a clear scientific uncertainty that 

would inform the policy debate has been ignored by GCMRC and is not included in the MRP. 

Without addressing the above deficiencies, it is unclear whether specific high priority 

stakeholder science questions are being or will be answered over the next five years. 

We recommend that the draft document be approved as a working document to help guide 

preparation of the '08/'09 workplan and budget but that GCMRC be charged with addressing 

the above concerns in a final FY2007-11 document and that document \ brought back to 

the AMWG for further consideration next summer. 

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