December 10, 2001
Jonne Hower
(208) 378-5101
Walt Larrick
(509) 575-5848

Methow Subbasin Evaluation

A report that evaluates the workload in the Methow subbasin to meet salmon recovery goals identified as a result of the 2000 Biological Opinion for operation of the Federal Columbia River Power System has been completed by the Bureau of Reclamation.

The report presents an overview of the work identified for this fiscal year, which began October 1. A key component is technical assistance provided by Reclamation. This can include design and survey support for diversions and headgate automation, as well as upgrading fish screens.

The workload evaluation and report focused only on fish screens on irrigation diversions, resolving fish passage barrier problems, and flow acquisition for fish passage. This work is required by the 2000 Biological Opinion for Operation of the Federal Columbia River Power System issued by NMFS.

The Evaluations of Subbasins for Implementation of the FCRPS 2000 Biop was prepared by a team of Reclamation staff who visited the basin in the late spring. The report is available on the internet at www.pn.usbr.gov and following the link from the home page. For more information about Reclamation’s work in the Methow subbasin, please contact Walt Larrick at (509) 575-5848 ext. 209.