Biological Assessment of Proposed Pecos River: 2002 Irrigation Season Operations on the Pecos Bluntnose Shiner

摘要

This Biological Assessment (BA) analyzes the potential effects of the Bureau of Reclamations (Reclamation) proposed actions on the Pecos bluntnose shiner (shiner), (Notropis simus pecosensis), a federally listed threatened species within the Pecos River basin. The proposed actions cover the irrigation season from March 1, 2002 to October 31, 2002. This species is native to the Pecos River and may be affected by irrigation season operations as proposed by Reclamation. Distribution and life requirements are discussed, as well as an analysis of the effects of the past three (1999, 2000, and 2001) irrigation season operations on this species. An Effects Determination has been made. The purpose of this interim BA is to formally consult with the U.S Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) over Reclamations proposed discretionary actions that may affect the Pecos bluntnose shiner in the 2002 irrigation season. During this period, if any new information or finding points to a need for revised operations, then Reclamation would consider modifying this current assessment or preparing a new assessment to address any significant operational changes which may be proposed. This BA is organized in the following manner: the description of the Pecos Basin; the authorities under which Reclamation operates in the Basin; the background of the hydrological baseline; the historical operations and ESA consultations to date; the description of the proposed action; the species description; analysis of effects; and effects determination.