If the dam is drained, the non-native fish could disappear because the dam helps maintain the colder temperatures needed for trout species. After a five-year study on the razorback sucker, Colorado pikeminnow, humpback chub and bonytail, the Bureau is recommending river flows that will assist in the recovery of the endangered fish be controlled by the dam. There are five proposed scenarios for flows, set up to match the natural water cycle of the river. Although concerned the experimental flows tested on the river might hamper fishing, anglers now say it helped trout populations. There isn't much of a difference from what we have already faced.
Some people feel the best thing for the endangered species is to remove the dam.
They are certainly entitled to voice that opinion. The Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area is the flagship of the national recreation areas in the U.S. Forest Service. It was the first national recreation area in the agency. Written comments must be received no later than Sept. 5. We will analyze them all and determine whether they are pertinent to the EIS process.