05-04-2022, 02:29 PM
(05-04-2022, 02:13 PM)Therapist Wrote: So how will the xtra release affect the Green River Fishery below the dam ??? Will that increased flow damage the Blue ribbion fishery ??? I am sure the yakers and tooners this summer will enjoy the increased flow !!!
The release is consistent with traditional releases that occur in a moderately wet year, it's just more than what would occur in a moderately dry or drought year. Water down there is a good thing, especially after the river has been so low with 850 cfs releases since November 1st. The concern for the tailrace fishery would be the low releases that might occur in future years, when the BOR has to retain water to rebuild the water storage in Flaming Gorge. This occurred in the mid 2000s when the river was at base flows for most of the year. The abundance of trout increased, but the size, growth, and condition of trout was low. Hope that helps, Ryno