In the case of an unplanned outage, the power plant control system
would open the crest gates automatically to maintain tailwater
elevation at the powerhouse to within the proposed ramping rate
described above (table 13). This would ensure an uninterrupted flow of
water downstream of the project tailrace. A small, short-term
fluctuation in downstream flows could occur as flow through the
powerhouse is reduced and flow over the spillway crest gates increases.
The estimated travel time from the spillway to the pool below the falls
depends on flow, but is estimated to be about 1 minute. Thus, any
fluctuation in river flow downstream of the project would be of short
duration and would be attenuated by water storage in the large pool
below the falls and in the river channel further downstream. Therefore,
the proposed crest gate operations, as described, would protect and
maintain aquatic habitat downstream of the project, and there would be
no need for a specific flow continuation plan as recommended by
Interior. Flow continuation would occur as part of normal project
operations, so downstream aquatic habitat, including UCR steelhead
designated critical habitat and Chinook salmon EFH below Similkameen
Falls, would be protected in the event of operating emergencies or
planned outages.

Anadromous Fish Passage at Enloe Dam

    Under the current proposed action, fish passage would not be
provided at the dam, and the 370-foot long bypassed channel would be
reduced to a minimum flow of 10 or 30 cfs during the low flow months
when most of the river flow would be diverted through the powerhouse
and returned to the river below the falls.
    American Rivers et al., BIA, and CRITFC commented that the issue of
fish passage was not resolved in a previous license proceeding for this
site; there is suitable anadromous habitat above the dam; and this
issue needs to be resolved prior to issuance of a new license. CRITFC
recommends that the applicant work with CRITFC's member tribes, the BIA
and other parties to resolve the issue of historical anadromy by
employing the best available scientific methods including
paleolimnological, genetic and archeological studies. CRITFC and BIA
also requested production potential estimates for salmon and UCR
steelhead be included as part of a fish passage alternative in the
current licensing proceeding. The BIA commented that cost estimates for
designing, constructing, operating, and maintaining upstream and
downstream fish passage facilities for the term of the license need to
be developed in case such an action is required in the future.
    The Colville, Okanogan Nation Fisheries Commission, Canadian Parks
and Wildlife Society British Columbia Chapter, and the Ministry of
Environment oppose introduction of anadromous fish passage above the
falls based on the belief that historical anadromy never occurred above
the falls, and introduction of anadromy would have negative impacts on
resident fishes and other aquatic life due to disease transfer and
competition for food and habitat; would provide a limited contribution
to a recreational fishery in the upper river; and would violate
traditional laws, the Coyote mythology that prohibits fish passage at
the falls, and sacred principles of the Tribes (Vedan, 2002).
    FWS has determined that it does not have sufficient information to
support filing a Section 18 prescription for fishways for the Enloe
Project at this time, because of the uncertainty of historical anadromy
above the falls. Both FWS and NMFS recommend that upstream anadromous
fish passage facilities not be required now, and have reserved their
authority to require fish passage under Section 18 in the future.

Our Analysis

    There are no documented accounts of Chinook salmon, sockeye salmon,
UCR steelhead, or Pacific lamprey anadromy above Similkameen Falls.
Aboriginal traditional beliefs suggest that Similkameen Falls
historically blocked anadromy (Vedan, 2002). In an Annual Report of the
Department of Indian Affairs for the Year Ended December 31st, 1890,
the Indian agent reported that ``at the mouth of the Similkameen River,
in the United States Territory, are falls which prevent the ascent of
salmon up the Similkameen...I have several times urged Indians to
construct a fish ladder and thus provide themselves with a supply of
salmon...'' (Department of Indian Affairs, 1890, in Vedan, 2002).
    More recently, conservation planners with knowledge of the affected
area and fish populations have weighed in on the issue. The Okanogan
Sub-basin Plan, which was prepared for the Northwest Power and
Conservation Council, concluded that Similkameen Falls was an
impassable historic barrier to upstream salmon migration (KWA Sciences
et al., 2004). The Similkameen watershed above Enloe dam was not
included in their sub-basin salmon ecosystem analysis for this reason.
    In 2007, the Upper Columbia Salmon Recovery Board issued the Upper
Columbia Spring Chinook Salmon and Steelhead Recovery Plan. The Upper
Columbia Salmon Recovery Board is composed of representatives from
Chelan, Douglas, and Okanogan counties, the Colville, and the Yakama
Nation. Their recovery plan does not identify upstream and downstream
passage of fish at Enloe dam as being a short-term or long-term action
that would contribute to the restoration of these fish stocks, based on
the uncertainty of fish being able to ascend Similkameen Falls before
the construction of Enloe dam (Chapman et al., 1994).
    Several entities including, Washington DFW, American Rivers et al.,
and CRITFC believe that steelhead, Chinook salmon, sockeye salmon, and
Pacific lamprey may be able to ascend

the falls and access the bypassed reach above Similkameen Falls under
some flow conditions. No data, provided in this proceeding, however,
have shown this to occur, or to be a likely possibility. Washington DFW
has stated that it has anecdotal information that places anadromous
fish above the falls, that UCR steelhead penetrated farther upstream of
the falls before construction of Enloe dam, and that rainbow trout
above the dam probably retain genetic similarity to UCR steelhead;
however, Washington DFW did not provide such information confirming
these assertions.
    In an effort to understand the historical range of anadromous
fishes in the Similkameen River, CRITFC commissioned Ford (2010a) to
analyze sediment core samples collected in Palmer and Blue lakes
upstream of Enloe dam. Sediment core samples were collected and
analyzed for isotopic content. The core samples appear to contain
isotopic signatures characteristic of marine-derived nitrogen, possibly
indicating anadromy; however, the preliminary analyses were
inconclusive and additional analysis is under way (Ford, 2010a, b;
Myers, 2010). CRITFC recommends that additional studies similar to Ford
(2010a) be required to attempt to resolve the issue of whether anadromy
occurred upstream of the falls. While such studies may provide some
indication of the former presence of anadromous fish upstream of the
falls, Ford (2010b) states that such results by themselves would not
provide ``compelling evidence'' that anadromous species once occurred
above the falls.
    CRITFC and BIA requested that production potential estimates for
salmon and UCR steelhead be included as part of a fish passage
alternative in the current licensing proceeding. The CRITFC letter
included estimates that the habitat upstream of Enloe dam could support
approximately 55,000 Chinook salmon and 98,000 steelhead spawners.
Although undoubtedly there may be some suitable habitat for salmon and
steelhead upstream of Enloe dam, based on available information in the
literature, it appears that anadromous fish likely did not pass the
Similkameen Falls in substantial numbers prior to the construction of
Enloe dam. An occasional account of a sighting of an anadromous fish
above the falls does not outweigh the lack of historic record
describing a salmon and UCR steelhead fishery or population above the
falls. Native American and First Nation belief that salmon were blocked
from the upper reaches of the Similkameen River above the falls is
additional support that salmon and UCR steelhead did not ascend the
falls and enter the upper reaches of the river to spawn prior to the
construction of Enloe dam.
    Regardless of whether anadromous fish historically migrated to
areas upstream of Similkameen Falls, if Okanogan PUD were to provide
for fish passage at the project, anadromous fishes that have been known
to occupy the plunge pool would be able to access habitat in the
Similkameen River upstream of Enloe dam for spawning and rearing.
Benefits to anadromous species could include an increase in the
populations of these fish stocks, as they gain additional spawning and
nursery habitat in the upper Columbia River basin. Other benefits to
upstream aquatic habitat would be the influx of marine nutrients
through the decay of salmon carcasses, which would benefit primary
production and the entire food chain, potentially enhancing resident
fish populations. Passing adult anadromous species upstream would also
have the potential to enhance the sport fishery in the river, depending
on regulations that would likely be put in place to protect stocks
introduced to the upper Similkameen River.
    The extent that these potential benefits might occur is not known,
and the introduction of anadromy to the upper Similkameen River could
also have negative impacts on both the anadromous and resident fishes
in the river. Anadromous fishes reaching the upper river may or may not
access suitable spawning and nursery habitat, as the reach immediately
upstream of Enloe dam (the reservoir) is not high-quality salmonid
habitat. While there may be suitable habitat upstream of the reservoir,
juveniles of anadromous species that are successfully spawned and rear
upstream of Enloe dam would also face an additional impediment to
downstream migration, the Enloe Project, which fish in the lower
Similkameen River would not face. Although the project may be required
to provide downstream fish passage facilities if anadromous species are
introduced upstream, such facilities are seldom 100 percent effective,
so fish from the upper river would be exposed to potential delay,
injury, and mortality. Resident species could be adversely affected by
the introduction of anadromous species by the potential for disease
transfer and competition for food and habitat between resident and
anadromous species.

Location of the Tailrace (FISH-09)

    UCR steelhead, Chinook salmon, and sockeye salmon enter the cooler
Similkameen River and migrate as far upstream as Similkameen Falls
during the summer months. The large, deep plunge pool below Similkameen
Falls is used as holding habitat until temperatures in the Similkameen
and Okanogan rivers decrease and these species can begin their spawning
activities (figure 4). Chinook salmon arrive in the plunge pool in July
and August, and hold prior to spawning in the lower river. Sockeye
salmon use the pool in August and September while also holding prior to
spawning in the fall. Sockeye and Chinook salmon generally leave the
pool by the end of September. Juvenile sockeye and Chinook salmon are
not known to utilize the pool area. Adult UCR steelhead occur in the
plunge pool below Similkameen Falls from September through March.
Juvenile UCR steelhead can be found in the pool year-round.
    Currently all flow provided to the plunge pool flows over the falls
and provides well oxygenated habitat for fish species. Bypassing flow
around the falls could result in reduced DO concentrations in the
plunge pool. To remedy this, Okanogan PUD proposes to locate the
tailrace so that it discharges into the plunge pool in a manner that
allows the flow to circulate to maintain water quality (TDG and DO) for
fish holding in the pool. Okanogan PUD also proposes to install turbine
venting to enhance DO levels in project discharges.

Our Analysis

    When the tailrace is operational under Okanogan PUD's proposal,
flow would enter the pool approximately 90 feet downstream from the
falls at an angle and create clockwise circulation in the pool upstream
of the tailrace exit. Orienting the tailrace to discharge flow into the
plunge pool in this manner would provide circulation within the pool to
prevent stagnation and water quality degradation. The potential TDG and
DO effects of the tailrace discharge are addressed in section <IP_ADDRESS>,
Water Quantity and Quality, Environmental Effects.
    Water circulation in the plunge pool, along with turbine venting,
would benefit all anadromous and resident fishes found in the pool by
ensuring adequate DO levels, while reducing TDG levels. These water
quality measures that reduce TDG, while maintaining adequate DO (see
section <IP_ADDRESS>), would have the greatest potential to benefit juvenile
UCR steelhead, as they are known to occupy the plunge pool year-round.
The proposed tailrace location would maintain the UCR steelhead
designated critical habitat and Chinook salmon EFH below Similkameen
Falls.

Side Channel Enhancement (FISH-10)

    Low velocity, high complexity side channels provide important
habitat for juvenile fishes. Elevated summer stream temperature and
limited rearing habitat are the most significant limiting factors for
salmonids in the lower Similkameen and Okanogan Rivers.\30\ The purpose
of the side channel enhancement measure is to create cooler water, side
channel habitat in the lower river to benefit anadromous fish, and
mitigate any impacts such as entrainment mortality and any decreased
production in the Similkameen River.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \30\ See license application.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Okanogan PUD proposes the side-channel enhancement project in reach
1 (RM 0-4.7). The project would include the enhancement of one to three
side channel areas in the Similkameen River located downstream of Enloe
dam. The candidate side channel would be approximately 800 feet in
length with an average gradient of 0.15 percent. The channel(s) would
be entrenched in the floodplain; the cross section would be
approximately trapezoidal with some undulation and woody debris in the
channel bottom. Riparian vegetation would provide cover and shade over
the majority of the open channel(s). The side-channel enhancement
proposal would provide cool water in these candidate side channels that
would enhance habitat for juvenile fishes.
    Cool water would be provided by a well to sustain flow in the side
channel. The well is expected to be about 12 inches in diameter with a
minimum depth of 40 feet. Total depth would depend upon site specific
sub-surface conditions. It is anticipated that a 25 to 30-horsepower
pump would be adequate to provide the desired flow rate of 2 cfs. Based
on water samples from adjacent wells, the temperature of water from the
well is expected to be near 14 [deg]C. Constructed riffles would
contain buried manifold systems capable of delivering 2-cfs low
pressure flow from the well.
    The cool water pumped from the well to the side channel(s) would
discharge water into a lateral channel of the mainstem Similkameen
River that is disconnected from the main flow during the summer low
flow period. The cool water discharged into the lateral channel would
extend downstream for at least 200 to 300 feet. The water in this side
channel would be backwatered by the mainstem flow, thus providing
additional ponding of cool water, and the discharge into the channel
would be approximately 4 acre-feet per day (2 cfs).
    Most of the construction activity would occur in a dry channel.
Sediment, erosion control, and water quality protection would be
implemented using procedures outlined in Washington DOE's Stormwater
Management Manual for Eastern Washington, as needed. BMPs would be used
to protect water quality and prevent streambank erosion.
Postconstruction monitoring would be conducted annually for the first 3
years after side channel construction, then every 5 years thereafter.
Monitoring would likely be accomplished through a snorkel survey and
the use of other fish observation techniques for shallow water, given
that UCR steelhead are listed as threatened and there is risk of
mortality or stress associated with electrofishing or seining. Sampling
would occur in the low flow August to mid-September time frame.
    The river stage at which flow would begin to naturally enter the
upper end of the side channel and the relationship between river flow
and side channel flow above this threshold value has not been
determined. This information would be collected during a second
planning and evaluation phase and would determine the timing of start-
up and duration of well operation. It would also provide insight
regarding the need to protect the side channel from flood flow; because
the river gradient is flat, flood stage may backwater the downstream
end of the side channel preventing higher water velocity from
developing. If a downstream backwater is present, large floods would
maintain natural processes within the side channel without destroying
the investment in rearing habitat.
    Washington DFW, Interior,\31\ and NMFS recommend the proposed side-
channel enhancement project. NMFS also recommends development of a fish
habitat enhancement plan in consultation with NMFS, FWS, Washington
DFW, the Colville, and the Yakama Nation. This recommended plan would
consist of provisions for side channel enhancement, as well as
Okanogan's proposed gravel supplementation plan (FISH-11) which is
discussed below. NMFS recommends the final plan be filed with NMFS at
least 180 days prior to the start of any land-clearing activities and
include a schedule for completion in 3 years, performance criteria,
monitoring provisions, contingency plans, and provisions for periodic
review of the plans.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \31\ As part of Washington DFW and Interior's recommended
Fisheries Enhancement Plan.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

Our Analysis

    The effect of the side channel improvements is not expected to have
a significant effect on water temperatures in the Similkameen River.
The side channel improvement would include the development of a small
area (~1,000 square feet) of cool water at the confluence of the side
channel and the mainstem river. It is expected that the outflow of 2
cfs (4 acre feet/day) of cool water from the side channel would
maintain cool water habitat in the lateral channel. Lower temperatures
would also be expected in the mainstem Similkameen River where the
lateral channel connects to the river; however the downstream extent of
the cool water influence is unknown at this time, but expected to be
200 to 500 feet.
    The purpose of the proposed side channel enhancement is to provide
coolwater rearing habitat for juvenile salmonids during the summer to
decrease mortality, improve fish condition, and mitigate the loss of
fisheries resources that could occur as a result of the construction
and operation of the project. The proposed side channel and lateral
channel enhancements would benefit juvenile UCR steelhead/rainbow
trout, Chinook salmon, and sockeye salmon in the lower river during the
low flow summer months by providing thermal refugia. Cutthroat trout
and brook trout are also present in very low densities and could
benefit. The proposed side channel habitat would be best suited to age
0+ steelhead/rainbow trout, and to a lesser degree age 1+ steelhead/
rainbow trout. The relatively shallow water depths in the side channel
would likely preclude significant occupancy by older age cohorts of
trout and salmon. Monitoring the side channel via snorkel surveys after
construction would determine if the newly created habitat was being
utilized by the target species.
    Installation of the structures, channel excavation, and other
instream work related to the proposed side-channel enhancement project
could cause short-term turbidity plumes and sedimentation when water is
turned back into the dry channel following construction. In-water
construction to connect the side channel with the river may cause
mortality of eggs, fry, and juvenile fish due to crushing or abrasion
during construction. It would be beneficial for Okanogan PUD to consult
with NMFS, FWS, Washington DFW, the Colville, and the Yakama Nation,
and file the side-channel enhancement plan with the Commission, as well
as providing copies to the agencies, at least

180 days prior to implementation, as recommended by NMFS.

Spawning Gravel Enhancement (FISH-11)

    The Similkameen River is a gravel-poor system and Enloe dam
prevents the transport of gravel from the upper watershed, which
results in limited spawning habitat for Chinook salmon, sockeye salmon,
and UCR steelhead in the lower 5 miles of the Similkameen River.
Spawning salmonids use gravel deposits near and downstream of RM 4, and
limited spawning occurs along the left riverbank (looking upstream)
near RM 5.2. Okanogan PUD proposes a gravel supplementation program in
reach 1 (RM 0-4.7). Okanogan PUD would supplement up to a maximum of
15,000 cubic yards of 1- to 3-inch diameter gravel on a schedule of
3,000 cubic yards 5 times at 5-year intervals. Each 3,000-cubic yards
of gravel deposited would have the potential of providing approximately
2 acres of additional spawning area.
    The preferred site for introduction of the gravel at RM 5.8 is near
an abandoned orchard that would not require any site grading to create
a pad for the conveyor belt and truck turn-around, and has a low river
bank (12 feet high), which would allow a shorter conveyance system to
reach the active channel of the river. The ground cover in this
location is predominately riprap with a small number of willow shrubs
and small cottonwoods growing in the riprap. Approximately eight willow
shrubs on the riverbank would be cut back and allowed to resprout
following the first supplementation.
    The gravel would be placed adjacent to or in the wetted channel
where it could be naturally redistributed at high flows. To reduce
disturbance of the riverbanks and associated riparian habitat, a rock
conveyor would be used to transport the gravel from an upland staging
area to the river channel. The in-channel gravel pile is anticipated to
be about 30 feet tall, 40 to 50 feet wide, and 150 feet long, and would
extend 35 to 40 feet into the wetted channel.
    Gravel supplementation is recommended by Interior, NMFS, and
Washington DFW.\32\ The Colville comments that the proposed gravel
supplementation program would reinitiate gravel recruitment processes
that have been disrupted by the presence of Enloe dam; would greatly
increase the quality and quantity of spawning habitat in the lower
Similkameen River, and would have minimal impacts on existing habitat.
The Colville also comments that the benefits of the proposed activities
would vastly outweigh any incidental impacts.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \32\ As part of Interior's Resident Fish Habitat Management
Plan.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

Our Analysis

    Enloe reservoir would continue to interrupt gravel transport from
upstream sources after the proposed project is constructed. The
proposed gravel supplementation program would provide long-term
benefits for spawning Chinook salmon and UCR steelhead/rainbow trout in
the lower river as the gravel is redistributed. The proposed 3,000
cubic yards of gravel, however, may need to be distributed over more
than one river location to allow efficient distribution under normal
flow conditions and prevent unwanted channel alteration.
    Deposition of the gravel into the wetted channel would likely cause
short-term turbidity plumes, sedimentation, and mortality of juvenile
fish due to crushing or abrasion. It would be beneficial for Okanogan
PUD to consult with NMFS, FWS, Washington DFW, the Colville, and the
Yakama Nation to develop and file a gravel enhancement plan with the
Commission, as well as providing copies to the agencies, at least 180
days prior to implementation, as recommended by NMFS.

Biological Review and Fisheries Monitoring Database (FISH-12 and FISH-
13)

    Okanogan PUD proposes a TRG to monitor the success of proposed
mitigation and enhancement measures. The TRG would: (1) Consult in the
design of management and monitoring plans; (2) review and evaluate
data; and (3) develop resource management proposals or other
recommendations to further improve the measures, if appropriate. The
group's meetings would be open to the public, and Okanogan PUD would
maintain records of the meetings and any recommendations made. Data and
information from the monitoring programs would be used to examine long-
term trends and make decisions regarding adapting measures to further
protect aquatic resources. As part of the biological review process,
Okanogan PUD would develop a central database for organization and
storage of the monitoring data related to aquatic resources. Database
format and development would be consistent with other aquatic data
gathered in the Okanogan River Basin. The monitoring programs that
would be included in the biological review process are:
     An entrainment study, including reservoir sampling;
     Tailrace barrier monitoring;
     Monitoring the use of boulder clusters upstream of the
reservoir; and
     A side-channel habitat monitoring program.
    Washington DFW recommends that Okanogan PUD develop an adaptive
management plan within 1 year of license issuance that includes goals,
monitoring protocols, decision criteria, and actions to be completed in
response to monitoring results.
    Interior recommends development of a Resident Fish Habitat
Management Plan within 1 year of license issuance that includes a
comprehensive study of resident fish species, populations, numbers, and
habitat conditions in the river from Nighthawk down to the reservoir to
complement the studies already completed in the reservoir and
downstream of the dam, and development of a fish habitat monitoring
plan for the river upstream of the reservoir. The plan also includes
provisions for temperature monitoring, riparian plantings in the
reservoir, the stocking of triploid rainbow trout in the reservoir, and
a fish habitat monitoring plan.

Our Analysis

    Development and implementation of the fish monitoring database and
study plans; interpretation of monitoring results; and development of
adaptive management strategies based on monitoring results would best
be accomplished through consultation among the proposed TRG and
Okanogan PUD to ensure integration between license measures and other
resource management plans, such as regional salmon recovery efforts.
Creation of a TRG and a database with the results of the proposed
monitoring programs would allow Okanogan PUD to manage project related
mitigation and enhancement measures, to determine the success of these
measures, and to modify these measures, if appropriate, to improve
their effectiveness. This TRG and its functions would satisfy the
Washington DFW recommendation for an adaptive management program.
    Interior's recommendation for a Resident Fish Habitat Management
Plan upstream of the project contains recommendations that are not
directly related to project operations or effects, and thus do not have
a direct nexus to the project. These recommendations include a
comprehensive study of resident fish species, populations, numbers, and
habitat conditions in the river from Nighthawk down to the reservoir;
and development of a fish

habitat monitoring plan for the river upstream of the reservoir The
proposed run-of-river operation of the reservoir would likely have no
effect on reservoir species, and would have little effect on the
riverine habitat upstream of the reservoir. Some of the recommended
provisions including temperature monitoring and riparian monitoring are
duplicative of Okanogan PUD proposals discussed elsewhere in the
document. The recommendation for stocking triploid rainbow trout has
also been recommended by other agencies and is discussed in detail
previously in this section.

Minimum Flow Proposal

    As we've said, Okanogan PUD proposes continuous minimum flows for
the 370-foot-long bypassed reach. Proposed minimum flows would be 30
cfs from mid-July to mid-September, and 10 cfs the rest of the year.
    Okanogan PUD also proposes to evaluate critical flow thresholds for
bypassed reach downramping requirements that may be implemented during
emergency situations after observation of in situ conditions during
provision of minimum flows.
    American Rivers et al. recommend a minimum flow release to the
bypassed reach equal to the requirements of Washington state law, to
prevent degradation of existing instream water uses (WAC 173-201A-310).
These releases would vary from 400 cfs to 3,400 cfs depending on the
month. CRITFC recommends maintenance of minimum flows in the bypassed
reach to provide biotic production and protect designated critical
habitat in the reach. Washington DFW also recommends establishment of
instream flows in consultation with Okanogan PUD as a condition for
licensing and operation of the project, to protect fish in the bypassed
reach and in the plunge pool below the falls. Neither CRITFC nor
Washington DFW recommendations contained specific volumes for their
recommended flow releases. In their preliminary recommendations,
Washington DFW notes that new information is likely to be developed
during the Washington DOE WQC process, and because fish and wildlife
resources are greatly affected by water quantity and quality,
Washington DFW will not be able to finalize its recommendations until
the certification process is completed.

Our Analysis

    Proposed flow diversions for project operations would cause flow in
the 370-foot-long bypassed reach to be reduced by up to 1,600 cfs when
the powerhouse is in operation. When river flow is greater than 1,600
cfs, the amount of water provided to the bypassed reach would be any
flow in excess of 1,600 cfs. When river flow is less than 1,600 cfs and
both generating units are operational, the only flow provided into the
bypassed reach would be either 10 or 30 cfs depending on the time of
year.
    Table 14 shows mean flows in the bypassed reach under current
conditions and under Okanogan PUD's minimum flow proposal. As shown in
Table 14, under Okanogan PUD's proposal, flows in the bypassed reach
would be greatly reduced for much of the year. The large majority of
the wetted area in the 370-foot reach would be dewatered and the
majority of aquatic habitat in this reach would be lost. While this
reduction of flow in the bypassed reach may seem extreme, the aquatic
habitat in this reach is not heavily utilized and is not accessible to
most fish in the project area.
    Similkameen Falls at the downstream end of the bypassed reach is a
natural barrier to upstream fish passage; therefore, the only fish that
could occupy the bypassed reach are individuals from resident
populations above Enloe dam that pass over the spillway. Washington DFW
states that rainbow trout could be washed over the dam into the
bypassed reach and could contribute to the rainbow trout/UCR steelhead
population in the river below the dam if sufficient flow and depth is
maintained to avoid injury. Rainbow trout have not been found in the
reservoir above the dam in previous sampling (Table 9), but in recent
(September 2010) snorkeling and hook and line surveys in the plunge
pool and bypassed reach immediately downstream of Enloe dam, rainbow
trout were observed. Smallmouth bass, northern pikeminnow, sculpin, and
unidentified suckers were also observed or collected.\33\ Flow
conditions did not allow a complete survey of the plunge pool, so
additional fish may have been observed if a complete survey had been
conducted.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \33\ Data were included in Okanogan PUD's November 10, 2010
filing.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Based on the recent survey, several species of fish are able to
utilize the habitat in the plunge pool at least during lower-flow
periods (river flow during the survey was about 600 cfs). Under
Okanogan PUD's proposed minimum flows, most of the habitat in the
plunge pool would disappear except during the summer months when
natural flows are higher than 1,600 cfs. This would be the same
timeframe when we would expect that fish would be washed over Enloe dam
due to high flows. Therefore, the plunge pool habitat would be
available during high flow months when resident fish may need it to
survive when they are washed over Enloe dam. The plunge pool habitat
would then largely disappear from August to March annually, as it would
only contain minimum flows of 10 or 30 cfs. This would probably be of
little consequence to resident fish populations, as no fish would be
washed over Enloe dam during this timeframe. The survival chances of
fish who would be occupying the plunge pool when it was dewatered
annually are not known; however, recent surveys have shown that their
numbers are quite small. Regardless of the numbers of fish in the
plunge pool after high flow events, those fish would benefit from the
minimum flows proposed by Okanogan PUD.

  Table 14--Comparison of Average Monthly Flows in Bypassed Reach With
               Okanogan PUD'S Proposed Minimum Flow Regime
                             [Source: Staff]
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                           Mean flows in   Mean flows in
                                          bypassed reach  bypassed reach
                  Month                    under current   under minimum
                                            conditions     flow proposal
                                             (cfs) \1\         (cfs)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
January.................................             659              10
February................................             682              10

March...................................             746              10
April...................................           2,086             486
May.....................................           2,086             486
June....................................           8,597           6,997
July....................................           2,965           1,365
August..................................             916              30
September...............................             596              30
October.................................             697              10
November................................             938              10
December................................             798              10
------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ Data from USGS Nighthawk gage no. 12442500 (1929-2005).

    Any fishes that would be occupying the plunge pool could be
negatively affected by the reduction in minimum flow provision in the
case of emergency operations, such as project shutdown. Okanogan PUD's
proposal to determine appropriate downramping rates through monitoring
and field observation would allow them to decide upon an appropriate
downramping rate that would be utilized during these situations. This
would be protective of any fishes utilizing the plunge pool.
    The minimum flow now proposed by Okanogan PUD and agreed to by
Washington DOE and Washington DFW would be only a small fraction of the
flow recommended by American Rivers et al. (400 to 3,400 cfs). Although
American Rivers et al. states that their recommended flow is based on
Washington regulations to ensure that state water quality standards are
met, neither of the Washington agencies has recommended this flow, nor
has American Rivers et al. provided a technical justification, based on
site specific data, for the higher flows that it recommends. American
Rivers et al. only states that its recommended flow would provide
adequate depth, substrate, cover and velocity, and does not provide any
analysis of alternative flows.
    Another issue associated with minimum flows in the bypassed reach
is the design of the minimum flow release structure, which we
previously discussed in section <IP_ADDRESS>. We concluded that a flow
release structure consisting of a gate and pipe using one of the former
penstock intakes would be the best option, because it would minimize
any potential water temperature increases, would allow placement of the
flow discharge at a point below the dam that would provide the greatest
environmental benefit, and would provide the best control of the flows
to be released. For the flow discharge point, a point closest to the
center of the dam would likely be best, to ensure good flow circulation
to most of the pool area. We also concluded that the final design of
this structure should be developed in consultation with the resource
agencies (Washington DOE, Washington DFW, FWS, NMFS, BLM, and the
Colville), prior to filing the design with the Commission for approval.
<IP_ADDRESS> Cumulative Effects
    We consider the geographic scope of cumulative effects on aquatic
resources to be the Similkameen River basin. Non-power development and
other activities contributing to cumulative effects on water quality
include historic and present land use as described in section <IP_ADDRESS>.
Hydropower development at the Similkameen Falls began in the early
1900s with Enloe Dam being constructed in 1920. The powerhouse operated
until 1958, when it was decommissioned and the flashboards removed from
the dam. The proposed Enloe Project would replace the flashboards with
crest gates, increasing the normal operating level of the reservoir by
4 feet, equal to its original operating level.
    Cumulative effects on aquatic resources would occur on both
resident and anadromous species in the Similkameen and Okanogan rivers,
with potential effects on anadromous species extending to the Columbia
River. For resident species, primary effects would be associated with
construction-related effects downstream of Similkameen Falls (increased
sedimentation and turbidity), and downstream passage through the
turbines. The Similkameen River already experiences degraded water
quality conditions associated with past mining activities, and high
water temperatures during the summer months. Construction-related
effects could add additional stress to both resident and anadromous
species downstream of the falls, although Okanogan PUD has proposed
measures to reduce construction-related effects, as described above.
These effects would also be of relatively short duration, would subside
after completion of construction, and overall would not contribute
significantly to cumulative effects on the fishery resources of the
basin.
    Fish entrainment through the turbines would result in the mortality
of some resident species that attempt to move downstream past Enloe
dam, and could have some effect on resident populations in the lower
Similkameen River, if those populations rely on recruitment from
upstream river reaches to maintain their populations. Okanogan PUD's
proposed intake design would include narrow-spaced trashracks that
would act to exclude larger fishes from passing through the turbines,
but would allow smaller individuals to pass. These smaller individuals,
however, would have higher survival rates than larger fish, and any
mortality may not significantly affect the downstream population.
Smaller/younger cohorts of fish populations typically have higher
natural mortality than older cohorts, so any turbine-related mortality
may not be detectable in the downstream population. Okanogan PUD is
also proposing to monitor fish entrainment at the project, to determine
the effectiveness of the proposed intake

design, so overall, any turbine-related mortality would not contribute
significantly to cumulative effects on the resident fishery resources
of the basin.
    Anadromous species occurring in the Similkameen River immediately
downstream of the project include the UCR steelhead (listed species),
Chinook salmon, and sockeye salmon. These species enter the Columbia
River from the Pacific Ocean and migrate over nine downstream
hydropower dams on the Columbia River, before reaching the Okanogan
River and tributary Similkameen River. These species use the plunge
pool at the base of Similkameen Falls as summer holding habitat prior
to spawning, but the falls blocks any further upstream migration.
Spawning for these species occurs in the lower Similkameen River or in
the Okanogan River. The proposed tailrace would discharge into the
plunge pool, but should have no negative effect on the holding habitat
in the pool, and would result in water quality improvements associated
with the reduction in TDG, and the maintenance of adequate DO levels as
a result of air injection in the turbine draft tubes. The turbine draft
tubes would also be equipped with barrier nets to prevent adult
steelhead from swimming into the draft tubes and contacting the turbine
blades. The project would operate in a run-of-river mode and would
implement specific ramping rates when operations are changed, so
proposed project operations would not result in excessive water level
fluctuation in the lower Similkameen River. Other enhancements proposed
by Okanogan PUD include construction of enhanced side channel habitat
for juvenile salmonids, and spawning gravel supplementation in the
lower river. In all, proposed project operations and enhancement
measures would result in a positive cumulative effect on the anadromous
salmonids occurring in the Similkameen River. Any beneficial effects on
Similkameen River salmonids resulting in increased production could
also be observed in the Okanogan and Columbia Rivers, as any increased
production could result in increased adult returns to those rivers.
3.3.4 Terrestrial Resources
<IP_ADDRESS> Affected Environment

Vegetation

    The Enloe Project area is located in the Similkameen River Valley,
within the Okanogan Highlands Province (Franklin and Dyrness, 1973).
This valley is a transitional zone between the Cascade Mountains to the
west and the Okanogan Highlands to the east. Columbia Basin steppe
vegetation reaches its northernmost extension in this valley.
Vegetation is a complex mosaic of three steppe vegetation units,
including the big sagebrush/bluebunch wheatgrass association, the
bitterbrush/Idaho fescue community, and the threetip sagebrush/Idaho
fescue community. Soil, slope, aspect, topography, and grazing
practices influence the distribution of these communities within the
valley.
    Previous botanical studies conducted in the vicinity of the project
include a vegetation mapping study conducted along the Similkameen
River in 1984 by FWS for the Corps and vegetation studies conducted for
the 1991 license application by the Okanogan PUD. Additional vegetation
and habitat mapping and riparian vegetation studies were conducted by
Okanogan PUD in 2006. The 2006 studies were completed in consultation
with state and federal agencies responsible for the management of
terrestrial biological resources of the Similkameen River.
    Five major vegetation communities were identified within the
project area: Shrub-steppe; upland meadow; riparian forest; riparian
shrub; and herbaceous wetland. Other minor communities included areas
of rock, unconsolidated shore, developed land and open water.
    The shrub-steppe community primarily occurs throughout the project
area on hillsides above the dam along the eastern side of the
reservoir. Smaller communities are located immediately downstream of
the dam along both sides of the Similkameen River. It is the most
extensive community, covering approximately 27 acres. Native shrub-
steppe communities have been diminished in both extent and condition as
a result of overgrazing by livestock, invasion of non-native plants,
agricultural conversion, and wildfire suppression. Most extant shrub-
steppe may appear to be in a natural condition, but it is actually a
considerably altered ecosystem, compositionally and functionally
different than pre-European settlement conditions (Altman and Holmes,
2000).
    Dominant species in this community include big sagebrush, threetip
sagebrush, bitterbrush, grey rabbitbrush, bluebunch wheatgrass, and
Idaho fescue. Other common grass and forb species include Sandberg's
bluegrass, cheatgrass, arrowleaf balsamroot, and prickly pear. Within
the shrub-steppe community, the bitterbrush/Idaho fescue community is
found on steeper slopes with coarse soils, while the big sagebrush/
bluebunch wheatgrass is found on gentler slopes. Invasive exotic
species, including knapweeds, thistles, and tumble mustard, are also
common, particularly in disturbed sites.
    A deciduous component of the shrub-steppe community occurs in draws
and the steepest slopes of the hillsides on both sides of the river.
Common shrub species in these areas are smooth sumac, serviceberry, and
Wood's rose. Rocky Mountain maple occurs in some stands of this
community. Scattered ponderosa pine trees occur within the shrub-steppe
community, particularly with the deciduous component.
    The upland meadow community occurs where shrub-steppe vegetation
has been cleared and replaced by grasses and forbs. Cheatgrass usually
dominates in these areas. Common grass and forb species include Idaho
fescue, knapweeds, and tumble mustard. This community occupies
approximately 4.3 acres of the project area and occurs primarily at two
locations. Both of these locations are old homestead sites, with the
larger situated near Enloe dam on the east bank of the river. These
areas are also used for grazing livestock.
    Riparian forest in the project area consists of stands of woody
vegetation from 12 to 80 feet tall. This community occupies
approximately 2.9 acres in the project area and is found primarily
along the reservoir. The largest stand is on the east bank of the river
at Enloe dam. The dominant tree in this community is black cottonwood,
but quaking aspen and water birch contribute to overstory canopy in
some areas. Common understory trees and shrubs include willow, red-
osier dogwood, chokecherry, black hawthorn, Rocky Mountain maple, and
mountain alder. Common herbaceous species include clematis, rushes,
sedges, and horsetail. Introduced species such as maple, juniper,
yucca, and lilac are found at the former homestead site near Enloe dam.
    Stands of riparian forest on the east side of the river burned in
1991. Many of the larger black cottonwoods are at least partly dead,
although resprouting is occurring. These stands are important as they
provide crucial habitat, especially to species that are not well
adapted to living in the arid grasslands and forests that dominate this
part of the region. Cottonwoods grow quickly and die relatively young.
They often provide cavities and snags, which are important to a variety
of wildlife species. These snags may eventually fall into the stream,
where they help create cover and pool habitat for fish and other
aquatic creatures. In this capacity, fallen or dead trees help to
stabilize stream banks and prevent erosion and siltation of streambeds.

    The riparian shrub community consists of woody vegetation that is
less than 12 feet tall. This community occupies approximately 7.4 acres
in the project area and is found primarily along the east bank of the
reservoir where the slope is gentle. It also occurs as a narrow fringe
elsewhere along the reservoir and the Similkameen River, including the
proposed side-channel enhancement site about 5 miles downstream from
Enloe dam. Willow stands, varying in size from bands of seedlings or
small shrubs to large dense thickets, provide over 75 percent of the
total shrub canopy cover. The dominant willow species are Bebb willow
and yellow willow. Other species in this community include red-osier
dogwood, chokecherry, clematis, smooth sumac, and young black
cottonwoods.
    The herbaceous wetland community is found on wet or seasonally
flooded areas. This community occupies approximately 3.5 acres in the
project area and occurs in scattered patches on low-elevation terraces
immediately adjacent to the reservoir. Dominant species are perennial
grasses, including reed canary grass and bluegrass. Other species
include cattail, horsetail, milkweed, and knapweed. Woody species found
in these areas include Wood's rose, red-osier dogwood, black hawthorn,
and willow, but they provide less than 5 percent of the cover in this
community.
    Several types of unvegetated areas are found in small portions of
the project area. These areas include rock outcrops along the hillside
slopes, bare soil, and sand and gravel bars (unconsolidated shore)
along the reservoir shoreline. Unconsolidated shore areas were mapped
as 5.0 acres in the project area. An unconsolidated sand and gravel bar
area exists at the outfall of the proposed side-channel enhancement
location where it connects to the mainstem Similkameen River. Some
sandbars support a sparse herbaceous cover and overlap with the
herbaceous meadow community. The open water of the reservoir and the
Similkameen River downstream of Enloe dam occupy much of the project
area (76.8 acres and 4.2 acres, respectively).
    Developed areas exist within the project area. These areas include
the dam itself, the old powerhouse, and various roads. These areas are
also unvegetated and represent 0.5 acre in the project area.

Noxious Weeds

    Noxious weeds and other exotic and invasive plant species are
defined as those plants listed by the Washington State Noxious Weed
Control Board under Washington Administrative Code 16-750 and adopted
by local county boards. They are classified as A-, B-, or C-rated
plants according to their current distribution and degree of threat,
with A-rated being of highest concern.
    Weed species have already infested the Enloe dam area and are
currently targeted for eradication/reduction. These include three Class
B weeds (houndstongue, diffuse knapweed, and sulfur cinquefoil), as
well as one Class C weed (babysbreath).
    Other weeds, such as thistles and tumble mustard, are common in the
shrub-steppe and upland meadow communities, particularly along
roadsides and disturbed sites. Invasive and noxious plants do not
appear to be spreading into forested lands or other less-disturbed
habitats.

Sensitive Species

    In July 2006, Okanogan PUD conducted floristic surveys for
sensitive species on all undeveloped land comprising the Enloe dam
project area. The entire project area from the upstream end above
Shanker's Bend to the downstream end below the existing powerhouse was
surveyed. In most areas, the project boundary does not extend much
above the ordinary high water line. Okanogan PUD conducted additional
vegetation surveys along the proposed new access road in 2007 and the
proposed side channel enhancement site in 2009.
    Habitat for two sensitive plant species, Ute ladies'-tresses, which
is state-listed as endangered and federally listed as threatened (see
section 3.3.5, Threatened and Endangered Species), and Snake River
cryptantha, which is state-listed as sensitive, occurs in the project
area. No sensitive plants were observed.

Wildlife

    The Okanogan Basin and Similkameen Subbasin are important
ecological corridors for migratory megafauna. Species such as mule deer
use the north-south corridor that connects the dry landscapes of
Canada's interior with the grasslands to the south. In addition to
megafauna, this corridor is a crucial part of the flight path for many
species of birds during annual migrations in the Pacific Flyway between
summer and winter ranges.
    The Enloe Project vicinity supports a variety of waterfowl, aquatic
furbearers, and amphibians. Prominent among the waterfowl are mallards,
common mergansers, and greater and lesser scaup. Canada geese are
resident in the project vicinity and small numbers may nest along the
water in the project area.
    Beaver is the most prevalent aquatic furbearer, feeding primarily
on willow found in the riparian shrub and tree habitats bordering the
reservoir. Amphibian observations are infrequent in the project area
due to limited habitat suitability. Amphibian species that may be
present in the project vicinity include Pacific tree frog, Columbia
spotted frog, western toad, long-toed salamander, tiger salamander, and
spadefoot toad. No amphibians were observed during reconnaissance
surveys carried out in August 2006.
    Riparian habitat, generally recognized as having a high diversity
of wildlife species, supports a number of song birds best represented
by the western flycatcher, eastern king bird, American robin, Bullock's
oriole, cedar waxwing, and various species of warblers, sparrows, and
woodpeckers. The upland area contains habitats dominated by sagebrush,
bitterbrush, serviceberry, and rock outcrops, which support mule deer,
yellow-bellied marmot, black-billed magpie, and ground-nesting species
such as the introduced chukar partridge and the native California
quail. Reptiles are also common in these habitats including western
rattlesnakes, racers, and gopher snakes.
    Wildlife species that use a wider variety of habitat types in the
project area include swallows, vultures, raptors, and coyotes. Common
swallow species in the project vicinity are barn swallows, bank
swallows, and violet-green swallows. Vultures and raptors are primarily
represented by turkey vultures. American kestrels, red-tailed hawks,
sharp-shinned hawks, golden eagles, and bald eagles are also present
but in smaller numbers. Except for swallows, these species may occur in
the project year-round. Swallows only occur in the summer months.
    Project area use by most of these species, as well as other less
common species, is greatest in the spring and summer and lowest in the
winter, when many species migrate, move upslope away from the river, or
hibernate. Prominent exceptions are mule deer and bald eagles, which
winter in the project area and remain active in this season.

Sensitive Species

    Townsend's big-eared bat, which is a federal species of concern and
a candidate for the State of Washington's threatened and endangered
species list, uses irrigation tunnels adjacent to the proposed access
roads immediately adjacent to or inside the proposed project boundary
as night roosts. During BLM surveys conducted in 2000 in the Enloe dam
area, one male Townsend's bat was observed. Washington DFW

states that the abandoned powerhouse and penstocks on the west side of
the river (figure 1) may provide suitable habitat for this species.
    State-listed wildlife species that may occur within the project
area include the state threatened bald eagle, state endangered sage
grouse, and state endangered Northern leopard frog. The bald eagle was
removed from the federal threatened and endangered species list,
effective August 8, 2007 (72 FR 37,346 [July 9, 2007]); thus, it is not
subject to ESA protection. The Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act is
now the primary federal law protecting the species. This eagle is still
state-listed as threatened in Washington, although it has been
recommended for down listing to sensitive by Washington DFW.
    Bald eagles occur along the Similkameen River during most of the
year, but they are most abundant from approximately October to April.
Very small numbers may occur during summer, but no nests have been
located along the river, below Palmer Lake, since 1989. It appears that
most bald eagles observed in the Enloe Project area are recorded as
they cross the area and fly up- or downriver. When present, eagles
range widely within the area depending on water conditions, prey
availability, perch site locations, and human disturbance.
Consequently, although bald eagles may be observed in the Enloe Project
area throughout much of the year, they neither nest nor appear to have
communal roosts there.
    The project area is within the historical range of the state-listed
sage grouse, but the nearest existing population of this species is
more than 60 miles to the south.
    Potential habitat may be present within the project vicinity for
the state-listed Northern leopard frog. The species typically occupies
waterbodies situated in grassland, scrubland, or forests. Although most
historical occurrences of this species were in the shrub-steppe
community, the project area is well outside the current range of the
species. Additionally, Washington DFW states that the Northern leopard
frog has not been found in Okanogan County for many years and may be
extirpated (ENTRIX, 2009).
<IP_ADDRESS> Environmental Effects
    Activities that would be authorized under a license that could
affect terrestrial species and habitats include: effects of proposed
project actions on wetlands, riparian and littoral habitats;
disturbance of vegetation, wildlife, and their respective habitats
resulting from construction, road grading, and grounds maintenance;
effects of water elevation changes on riparian and wetland vegetation;
grazing access; introduction and spread of noxious weeds; and effects
of proposed project actions on wildlife species. As discussed below,
Okanogan PUD proposes measures to reduce adverse effects on terrestrial
resources.

Effects of Construction, Operation, and Maintenance of Project
Facilities on Wetlands, Riparian and Littoral Habitats (BOTA-01 Through
BOTA-09)

    Okanogan PUD proposes to mitigate the modification of existing
riparian and wetland vegetation by facilitating the rapid development
of riparian vegetation to replace any losses when the low-flow
elevation for the reservoir is increased by 4 feet. This would be
accomplished through the implementation of its Vegetation Plan,
included in the additional information filed on March 2, 2009.
    The overall objectives of the Vegetation Plan are to ensure that
Okanogan PUD's proposed measures and agency recommendations are
successfully planned and executed. The Vegetation Plan would establish
the following measures:
     Planting riparian vegetation at previously identified
sites along the west and east banks of the reservoir to mitigate for
the temporary loss of habitat while fringe riparian vegetation
establishes along the new low water line;
     Abandoning and restoring the existing unimproved shoreline
road along Enloe reservoir to mitigate the effects of project
construction noise and habitat fragmentation;
     Planting riparian vegetation along the corridor to
mitigate the effects of the abandoned shoreline road;
     Planting riparian species on east and west banks
downstream from Shanker's Bend;
     Installing grazing control measures, including fencing, to
protect riparian plantings and other sensitive areas from cattle
grazing;
     Monitoring restored areas and replanting if necessary in
accordance with the performance criteria in the Vegetation Plan; and
     Employing BMPs to protect riparian and wetland vegetation
to reduce or avoid effects associated with construction activities.
    Okanogan PUD's Vegetation Plan would provide for appropriate
protective measures, if monitoring results show project-related
effects, and also would include employee training and monitoring to
determine whether the measures are effective. The Vegetation Plan would
provide for adaptive management, based on monitoring results and would
outline consultation with the agencies and provision of annual reports
on plan activities, with the opportunity to update the plan, as needed.
Okanogan PUD's proposed BMPs for resource protection, cutting and
planting methods for riparian trees and grasses, grazing controls,
noxious weed maintenance, vegetation monitoring, and training would be
included as part of the plan to ensure that riparian areas are
developed and become more valuable areas for wildlife.
    Okanogan PUD prepared the Vegetation Plan after consultation with
FWS, BLM, and Washington DFW to address the measures that would be
taken to facilitate the development and protection of riparian
vegetation that is otherwise expected to occur naturally. As such,
Okanogan PUD's Vegetation Plan would incorporate all the measures that
BLM and Washington DFW recommend, except a BLM recommendation for
additional sensitive plant species surveying above and below the dam.
    FWS, BLM, and Washington DFW recommend that Okanogan PUD prepare a
vegetation resources management plan that would include the measures
contained in the Vegetation Plan, but would also include measures
specifically addressing the restoration of riparian habitat lost,
degraded, or disturbed by project construction, operation, and
maintenance using a 3:1 ratio. Okanogan PUD replied that its Vegetation
Plan would provide the appropriate replacement ratio with a net
increase in riparian habitat over what currently exists.
    BLM, FWS, and Washington DFW further recommend that Okanogan PUD
monitor restored areas (upland sites, riparian and wetland sites) every
year for 5 years and continue monitoring every 5 years thereafter and
replant sites as necessary. Okanogan PUD's Vegetation Plan includes
provisions for monitoring of restored areas of sites that may convert
from upland meadow to herbaceous wetland.

Our Analysis

    Development and implementation of Okanogan PUD's environmental
measures contained in its Vegetation Plan for shoreline vegetation
would mitigate or reduce the effects of project construction,
operation, and maintenance on associated wetlands and riparian habitats
and would provide a benefit to wildlife species that use the riparian
habitats within the project area.
    Overall, implementation of Okanogan PUD's Vegetation Plan would
represent

a reasonable level of effort to mitigate the effects of increasing
reservoir surface water elevation that would inundate 0.4 mile of
riverine and wetlands habitat at Shanker's Bend. Okanogan PUD's
Vegetation Plan includes provisions for monitoring of restored areas of
sites that may convert from upland meadow to herbaceous wetland.
Restoration of these habitats under this plan would provide a net
increase in riparian habitat over what currently exists. Monitoring
restored areas every year for 5 years after license issuance for
success, with replanting if necessary, would be an appropriate measure
to ensure effectiveness of habitat restoration.

Disturbance of Vegetation and Wildlife Resulting From Construction,
Road Grading, and Grounds Maintenance (BOTA-03, BOTA-04, BOTA-08
Through BOTA-10, and WILD-02)

    Okanogan PUD proposes to abandon and restore a 2,000-foot-long
segment of the existing unimproved shoreline road traversing riparian
habitat along the east bank of Enloe reservoir. This area would be
restored to natural condition through the implementation of Okanogan
PUD's proposed Vegetation Plan. Abandoning and restoring this segment
of the road is intended to help mitigate the effects of project
construction by eliminating the current disturbance of wildlife by
vehicular traffic and associated noise and removing the current
interruption between upland and riparian habitat posed by the road.
Aquatic/riparian species, such as beaver, waterfowl, and other riparian
birds, and upland species, such as coyotes, deer, snakes, and birds
that forage in both upland and riparian areas, would be expected to
benefit.
    Okanogan PUD proposes in its Vegetation Plan to plant woody
riparian vegetation along the abandoned shoreline road. BMPs to protect
riparian and wetland vegetation would also be employed. Measures such
as flagging and temporarily fencing any wetland and riparian vegetation
in the vicinity of the project would reduce or avoid accidental
impacts. Okanogan PUD proposes to provide a biological monitor to check
construction sites on a weekly schedule to ensure that protected areas
are not disturbed and that fencing is intact. It further proposes to
limit construction and maintenance-related disturbance of sensitive
habitats by concentrating construction activities with the loudest
noise to occur in summer and early fall. This measure would minimize
potential effects on noise-sensitive species, such as over wintering
birds and bald eagles as much as possible.
    BLM recommends, in addition to the measures contained in the
Vegetation Plan, that Okanogan PUD develop a wildlife management plan
that would include a measure to plant fast-growing native shade
producing trees along the reservoir, such as native willows, alders,
and/or cottonwoods. While a formal wildlife management plan was not
developed, Okanogan PUD addresses facilitating the rapid development of
riparian vegetation in its Vegetation Plan. Several other related
recommendations made pertaining to wildlife were adopted (see table
23).

Our Analysis

    Construction effects on vegetation would be limited to vegetation
removal and possible noxious weed encroachment near the powerhouse and
access road and recreational access areas. Project operation would not
be expected to result in significant effects on the upland vegetation
communities near the powerhouse.
    Relocating the existing unimproved access road bordering the east
side of the reservoir approximately 200 feet to the east (up slope)
would not significantly affect wildlife; it would allow riparian
habitat along low-lying sections of the current road corridor to
naturally reestablish, resulting in a net benefit for wildlife and
their habitat. The proposed route would follow an abandoned irrigation
ditch through highly disturbed terrain largely consisting of low
quality rocky habitat and debris.
    Effects on wildlife would be minor, consisting primarily of
temporary disturbance or displacement of wildlife during construction.
Most wildlife may temporarily occupy other, nearby similar habitats
during construction. Once the project is complete, the minor and
constant noise associated with the project that could affect wildlife
would be masked by the sound of water flow. Minor impacts would be
associated with installation of crest gates, connection to Okanogan
PUD's nearby power distribution line, and relocation of a portion of
the unimproved access road along the reservoir.

Effects of Water Elevation Changes on Riparian and Wetland Vegetation
(BOTA-01 Through BOTA-05 and BOTA-07)

    Okanogan PUD proposes to install crest gates at the dam, increasing
reservoir water level elevations by 4 feet, which would result in the
inundation of approximately 0.4 mile of riverine and wetlands habitat
at Shanker's Bend. BLM comments that the larger reservoir would reduce
vegetation and wetlands along the shore of the current impoundment.
Okanogan PUD maintains that increasing the minimum pool elevation would
shift mesic conditions upslope, but would not necessarily result in a
reduction in suitable habitat.
    In response to BLM, FWS, and Washington DFW's recommendations for a
vegetation resources management plan, Okanogan PUD proposes to plant
riparian vegetation at previously identified sites along the west and
east banks of the reservoir to mitigate for the temporary loss of
habitat while fringe riparian vegetation establishes along the new low
water line. It also proposes to plant riparian vegetation on east and
west banks downstream from Shanker's Bend and along the corridor to
enhance the effects of abandoning the shoreline road. Okanogan PUD
would monitor restored areas and replant if necessary in accordance
with the performance criteria in its Vegetation Plan.

Our Analysis

    Habitat lost, degraded, or disturbed by project construction,
operations, and maintenance would be restored or replaced along the
Similkameen River. Habitat that is expected to be affected includes the
0.4 acre of riparian and wetland habitat that would be inundated by the
rise in water level elevation. Currently, the herbaceous wetland
community occupies approximately 3.5 acres in the project area and
occurs in scattered patches on low-elevation terraces immediately
adjacent to the reservoir. Although long-term inundation would affect
approximately 12 acres of habitat along the shore of the reservoir,
Okanogan PUD maintains that this does not suggest that all 12 acres of
habitat would be lost. The total acres of vegetated habitat in that
zone, including sparsely vegetated to barren rocky cliff habitat, is 7
acres. The remaining 5 acres of unconsolidated shore and water would
remain. It is anticipated that while some of the habitat may become
unvegetated; some habitat may merely undergo conversion to another
wetland cover type, resulting in a minor long-term impact.
    The restoration and subsequent operation of crest gates would
increase the minimum pool elevation and inundate narrow strips of
riparian and wetland habitat along the reservoir for longer periods
than now occurs. Some habitat loss would be short-term and naturally
mitigated as the inundated area would be replaced by the establishment
of new riparian habitat upslope within a few years. Fringe riparian
strips would eventually

reestablish along the new water line, in response to the higher water
levels. Permanent alteration of about 5.1 acres of wetlands and
riparian vegetation currently occupying seasonally exposed flats or
benches along the reservoir would likely occur.
    Under a run-of-river mode of operation, all project outflows would
approximate all project inflows at any point in time. In this operation
mode, a stable water level of the reservoir and stable flow in the
downstream tailrace would be maintained. As such, effects of modified
flows on vegetation and wildlife downstream of the dam would be
negligible.
    Implementation of Okanogan PUD's proposed riparian restoration as a
component of its Vegetation Plan would provide a reasonable level of
effort to restore and maintain these affected areas under altered
conditions. The measures proposed to protect, mitigate, and enhance the
affected riparian, wetland, and low-elevation upland habitats would
benefit wildlife in the project vicinity by helping to preserve and
enhance habitats surrounding the sub-basin that are important to
maintaining wildlife populations, including small game species,
migratory birds, and other wildlife.

Effects of Construction, Operation, and Maintenance of Project
Facilities on Grazing Access (BOTA-06)

    The lands within and adjacent to the proposed project boundary are
currently not fenced. Cattle have free access to the river wherever the
topography allows. Livestock grazing practices have led to trampled
streambanks, increased bank erosion and sedimentation, and changes in
vegetation, including loss of native grasses, effects on woody
vegetation, and establishment of noxious weeds (PNRBC, 1977).
Currently, grazing pressures occur mostly along the eastern side of the
project area.
    To protect riparian/wetland mitigation sites for the project from
grazing and trampling damage while mitigation plantings are
establishing, Okanogan PUD proposes livestock fencing for most of the
eastern side of the project area along the Similkameen River between
Enloe dam and Shanker's Bend. An additional security/safety fence
section is proposed for the landward side of the new powerhouse, its
intake at the dam, and the area between the intake and the powerhouse.
Protective enclosures for individual plants would be used to protect
young plantings from consumption by cattle and wildlife, such as beaver
or deer.
    FWS and Washington DFW recommend that Okanogan PUD install grazing
control measures, including fencing, to protect sensitive riparian
areas and restored sites. Okanogan PUD's Vegetation Plan includes a
provision for installing a stock watering tank approximately 300 feet
upslope from the river, just inside the project boundary and north of
the proposed recreation site, as an alternative source of drinking
water for grazing cattle (Okanogan PUD, 2009b). BLM recommends that any
new livestock water development associated with the project include a
wildlife escape ramp.

Our Analysis

    Okanogan PUD's proposal to install fencing would protect riparian/
wetland areas while accommodating livestock grazing. Okanogan PUD would
need to consult with BLM, however, regarding finalizing its proposal to
address grazing permittees' access to and use of water, including the
provision of a wildlife escape ramp as part of its Fence Plan
consultation (see section 3.3.6, Recreation and Land Use).

Effects of Construction, Operation, and Maintenance of Project
Facilities on the Introduction and Spread of Noxious Weeds Within the
Project Boundary (BOTA-11 Through BOTA-13)

    Noxious weeds and other invasive plant species can negatively
affect native plant communities and wildlife, as well as recreation,
aesthetics, cultural values, and economic resources. Several federal,
state, and county policies and regulations have been developed to
address concerns about the spread of weeds, and to guide management of
weeds on private and public lands. Landowners in the state of
Washington are required by state law and various county ordinances to
take steps to control the spread of certain specified noxious weeds on
their property.
    Okanogan PUD proposes to include a noxious weed control program as
a component of its Vegetation Plan. This program would include noxious
weed control measures for the proposed construction and management
activities. Monitoring provisions in the vegetation resources
management plan would include monitoring of sites that may convert from
upland meadow to herbaceous wetland.
    Okanogan PUD also proposes to include soil disposal and
revegetation measures BOTA-12 and 13, as a component of the Vegetation
Plan to further limit introduction and potential spread of noxious
weeds within the project area. Prior to excavation and placement of
spoil, existing vegetation in construction areas would be cleared and
grubbed and buried in spoil disposal areas.
    The spoil disposal areas would be surveyed for the noxious weeds
addressed in the Vegetation Plan and control measures would be
implemented to control any infestations of those species prior to spoil
disposal. Following completion of spoil disposal, the spoil disposal
areas would be hydroseeded with appropriate seed mixes to encourage
revegetation with native upland species and reduce the potential for
noxious weed introduction. These areas would be included in subsequent
weed survey and treatment efforts.
    FWS and Washington DFW recommend that Okanogan PUD implement a
noxious weed control program to increase wildlife forage. BLM
recommends the measures proposed in Okanogan PUD's proposed noxious
weed control program be incorporated as a component of its recommended
vegetation resources management plan. This plan would allow inclusion
of additional provisions that, at a minimum, would identify and limit
introduction and potential spread of noxious weeds. Specifically, BLM
further recommends expanding Okanogan PUD's proposed Vegetation Plan to
include surveying; documentation of species occurrences; treatment
method and type of application; post treatment and site rehabilitation;
and long-term prevention and control of noxious and invasive weeds; and
mapping and digital database development.
    BLM, FWS, and Washington DFW further recommend Okanogan PUD monitor
restored areas (upland sites, riparian and wetland sites) every year
for 5 years and continue monitoring every 5 years thereafter and
replant sites as necessary. Okanogan PUD's Vegetation Plan includes
provisions for monitoring of restored areas of sites that may convert
from upland meadow to herbaceous wetland and maintains monitoring
should be discontinued once success criteria have been met.

Our Analysis

    Noxious weeds and invasive non-native plants are a growing threat
throughout the west. Diffuse knapweed, in particular, is an invader
species and a serious water quality threat in the Similkameen
watershed. The introduced species crowd out the native vegetation and
create instability along the riverbanks. There are multiple small areas
of noxious weed infestations within the project boundary that would be
controlled, reduced, or eradicated

through the implementation of a noxious weed management program.
    While concentrated along access roads and disturbed areas, weeds
and invasive species are widespread throughout the project area.
Prevention of introduction and spread of weeds relies on early
detection, effective treatment, on-going education of land managers and
the public about weed issues, and proper planning and management of
ground disturbing activities. Monitoring existing weed populations and
patrols to identify new infestations are essential to evaluate the
success of the steps being taken to control and prevent the spread of
weeds.
    Without management, weeds would likely continue to spread because
of their tolerance for a variety of soil and moisture conditions, and
their ability to out-compete native plants. Project construction and
maintenance activities and increased human activity, in addition to
wind, water, and animal transport, would continue to serve as vectors
for weed dispersal.
    Implementation of Okanogan PUD's noxious weed control program as a
component of its Vegetation Plan would represent a reasonable level of
effort to control existing weed populations and prevent the
introduction and further spread of weeds in the project area.
Implementation of the program would also encourage the growth of native
plant species by preventing encroachment of non-native weeds on
existing plant populations. The adaptive nature of the program would
enable the plan to be responsive to changing conditions such as changes
in weed status, occurrence, or distribution.

Effects of Construction, Operation, and Maintenance of Project
Facilities on Wildlife Species (WILD-01 and WILD-02)

    Okanogan PUD proposes several measures to protect and reduce
effects on wildlife at the project. Construction activity (WILD-02)
would be timed to minimize effects on over-nesting and over-wintering
birds and bald eagles, as much as possible. Okanogan PUD also proposes
a new 13.2-kV, approximately 100-foot-long primary transmission line
(WILD-01). It would be constructed and connected to the Okanogan PUD's
existing distribution system at an existing pole immediately to the
east of the proposed project location. The existing pole would be
relocated or modified to prevent raptor electrocutions.
    FWS, BLM, and Washington DFW recommends that, in addition to the
measures contained in the Vegetation Plan, Okanogan PUD develop a
wildlife management plan that would include a measure to plant fast-
growing native shade producing trees along the reservoir, such as
native willows, alders, and/or cottonwoods. The agencies also recommend
that all dead trees along the reservoir be retained as perch trees
until the planted trees are large enough for raptor use and that the
project transmission line crossing the Similkameen River be visually
marked to prevent avian collision. They further recommend the
installation of 10 artificial perch poles along the reservoir shoreline
and in places where perch trees are sparse or lacking, and an
unspecified number of nest boxes for small birds in areas that lack
snags or natural tree cavities. They also recommend that to avoid
disturbance of Townsend's big-eared bats using project lands, Okanogan
PUD install barriers on irrigation canal tunnels to prevent human entry
while allowing use by bats, and exclude project activities during the
winter bat hibernation period. BLM recommends that Okanogan PUD
institute seasonal restrictions on human activity near active nest
sites of bald eagles, golden eagles, ospreys, peregrine falcons, and
other raptors on BLM-administered lands within the project boundary.
Washington DFW recommends that the wildlife management plan also
provide a 200-foot-wide buffer around wetlands/riparian habitat.
    While a formal wildlife management plan was not developed, several
of the agency recommendations made pertaining to wildlife were adopted
(see table 23). As a component of its Vegetation Plan, Okanogan PUD
would employ BMPs to limit vegetation maintenance in sensitive habitats
to the extent possible. This would include the retention of snags and
dead trees, with the exception of trees that pose a hazard to human and
facility safety. Okanogan PUD states that a previous fire resulted in
the loss of large shoreline cottonwoods and other trees that could
provide perching or cavity-nesting habitat. Okanogan PUD maintains that
the project would not affect perching or cavity-nesting habitat in
areas that lack such habitat and that perch poles and nest box
installation should not be required.

Our Analysis

    The construction, operation, and maintenance of the proposed
project is expected to have minimal effects on wildlife because the
footprint for the hydroelectric facility would be small and effects on
flows would be minimal. Primary effects would be associated with human
activity and noise associated with project construction and
restoration.
    Implementation of Okanogan PUD's WILD-01 and WILD-02 measures would
reduce the effects of project construction and operation on bald eagles
and other wildlife that use the project area. Bald eagle use of the
area is incidental and transient and is not expected to be affected by
the project. Modification to the transmission line pole would protect
wildlife that use the eastern side of the reservoir and reduce the
adverse effects of the power line on raptors and other birds. The
transmission line would not cross the Similkameen River, further
reducing the potential for avian contact (see figure 1).
    Okanogan PUD does not propose to remove any non-hazard trees along
the reservoir, including potential perching trees, therefore, no
effects to existing perching habitat are anticipated. Likewise, any
reduction in potential nesting habitat for cavity nesters would be
slight and temporary, as shifts in riparian habitat occur in response
to the new minimum pool elevation and new riparian vegetation
establishes. This would not be a substantial adverse effect and does
not require mitigation. Effects on bald eagles and other sensitive
species would be limited and would be mitigated by measures addressing
shoreline vegetation management, construction timing, and transmission
pole modification. The proposed project would not affect these
habitats. The Vegetation Plan, which includes the abandonment and
natural restoration of the 2,000-foot-long segment of the existing
unimproved shoreline road, would provide the same protection for
riparian and wetland habitats as the 200-foot-wide buffer.
    Construction, demolition, and blasting may disturb wildlife in the
immediate vicinity of these activities. Okanogan PUD proposes to time
construction activity to minimize effects on wildlife including nesting
and over-wintering birds and bald eagles, as much as possible. Bald
eagles and other wildlife may be temporarily displaced from the
immediate project area and may avoid perching or feeding near the
project. Because most perch trees are located considerably upriver from
the dam, the disturbance effect should be minimal.
    Most habitats in the project area are already affected by some
level of human disturbance, due to existing informal recreational
access. Development of a proposed public access site near the dam would
not substantially increase the level of human disturbance on water-
dependent wildlife within the

project area. It is likely that some vegetation would be removed or
disturbed for site access and improvement. Much of this disturbance
would occur in previously altered areas or in areas adjacent to
existing facilities. As a result of this disturbance, some wildlife
species that use riparian areas could be temporarily displaced.
Okanogan PUD proposes to provide a biological monitor during
construction to further assist with resource protection.
    Once the project is complete, minor noise would be associated with
the operation and maintenance of the hydroelectric facility, but
generally would be masked by the sound of water flowing over the dam or
the falls, or through the tailrace immediately below the dam (water
would not flow over the dam or falls for 10 months of the year, thus it
would not mask noise from operations). Noise levels at the facility
would be fairly constant at all times. Wildlife commonly habituate to
constant noise and human disturbance levels, provided they are not
harassed by people working at the facility. Most wildlife would be
expected to return once construction activities diminish and work is
completed.
    Activities related to the construction, maintenance, and increased
recreational use associated with the project may disturb Townsend's
bats, which are highly sensitive to human disturbance. Although not
proposed by Okanogan PUD, Washington DFW recommends installation of
barriers on the project's defunct irrigation tunnels. A recent
inspection in March 2010 noted that the tunnel entrance nearest to
Enloe dam had been blocked by a landslide, and, therefore, would not be
suitable habitat for bats. Tunnel sites near Shanker's Bend and further
upstream probably have more potential for good bat habitat than the
tunnels closer to Enloe dam. These sites are far enough from the
project site that recreational or construction noise would be unlikely
to affect bats.
    Under measure WILD-02, Okanogan PUD's proposes to concentrate
construction activities with the loudest noise to occur in summer and
early fall to minimize effects to over wintering birds and bald eagles
as much as possible. This mitigation measure would also serve to reduce
noise impacts to any bats potentially using the area close to the site
of construction.
3.3.5 Threatened and Endangered Species
<IP_ADDRESS> Affected Environment

Aquatic Species

    Bull trout (Salvelinus confluentus) are listed as threatened by the
FWS and have been reported to occur in the Okanogan River, but are not
found in the Similkameen River. We conclude that bull trout are not
present in the area that is subject to project effects. Therefore, the
proposed Enloe Project would have no effect on the federally listed
Columbia River bull trout.
    UCR steelhead (Oncorhynchus mykiss) is listed as threatened and the
Similkameen River from its confluence with the Okanogan River to the
Similkameen Falls is designated as critical habitat. UCR steelhead
spawn in the Similkameen River downstream from the falls. In its
February 26, 2010, letter, NMFS stated that UCR steelhead enter the
river from mid-September through April; spawning usually occurs in
March through July. Adults hold in the river from the mouth to the
plunge pool below the falls until spawning takes place. Most of the UCR
steelhead redds are found below Oroville Bridge at RM 5, and above the
cross channel with the Okanogan River. There are no known UCR steelhead
spawning areas within the project boundary. During Okanogan Basin
Monitoring and Evaluation Project surveys of the lower section of the
Similkameen in 2005, 106 UCR steelhead redds were counted; their
density was 18.8 redds per square mile. In 2006, 98 redds were counted,
and their density was 17.4 redds per square mile. Fry emerge from the
gravel between July and September, and move downstream in search of
overwintering habitat in the fall. Juveniles generally rear in
freshwater for 2-3 years before migrating to the ocean.

Terrestrial Species

Vegetation

    As previously mentioned, the Ute ladies'-tresses (Spiranthes
diluvialis) could occur within the project area. FWS lists Ute ladies'-
tresses as federally threatened and therefore protected under the ESA
(FWS, 2010). FWS initiated a status review in 2004 for this species,
but no determination has been issued to date regarding a change in
status. No other federally-listed plant species have been found within
the project boundaries. Ute ladies'-tresses is a perennial terrestrial
orchid that flowers from mid-July through August in Washington. It is
found in early to mid-seral vegetation in wet meadows, stream or river
banks, irrigated hay meadows, and wetlands associated with wet meadows,
springs, streams, lakes, irrigation ditches, and reclaimed gravel and
peat mines.
    Although this orchid was reported as historically found in riparian
areas in Colorado, Utah, and Nevada when it was listed, existing
populations were known only in Colorado and Utah at that time. Since
1992, populations have been found in Montana, Wyoming, Idaho, Nebraska,
and at four locations in Washington. One Washington location is in a
periodically flooded alkaline flat. The other three are on stabilized
gravel bars along the Columbia River. Washington populations are at
elevations ranging from 720 to 1,500 feet. No critical habitat has been
designated for this species.
    The nearest known population to the Enloe Project is at Wannacut
Lake, approximately 5 air-miles to the southwest. Wannacut Lake is in
the Whitestone Creek watershed, and the Whitestone Creek confluence
with the Okanogan River is approximately 9.8 miles downstream of the
Similkameen River confluence with the Okanogan River. No individuals of
Ute ladies'-tresses or any other species of Spiranthes were observed
during Okanogan PUD's botanical surveys of the project area in 2006,
2007, or 2009. However, the surveys identified two areas of suitable
habitat. An approximately 9-square-foot area at the edge of the
reservoir (Okanogan PUD, 2009d) and a sparsely vegetated area at the
downstream end of the proposed side channel enhancement location,
immediately adjacent to the active Similkameen River channel
approximately 5 miles downstream from Enloe dam, could provide
potential habitat for these species, although Ute ladies'-tresses were
not observed during an October 2009 survey.

Wildlife

    FWS lists three wildlife species potentially occurring in Okanogan
County that are federally designated as threatened and therefore
protected under the ESA (FWS, 2010). These species are the Canada lynx
(Lynx canadensis), grizzly bear (Ursus arctos), and northern spotted
owl (Strix occidentalis caurina). Designated critical habitat for two
of these species--Canada lynx and northern spotted owl--is also present
in Okanogan County. Based on literature review and agency
consultations, these species are not likely to occur within the project
area due to the lack of suitable habitat. Effects on these species are
not likely to occur due to their absence within the project area.

    Canada Lynx--The Canada lynx is a medium-sized cat that is highly
mobile and has a large home range. Its population and distribution is
closely tied to its main prey, the snowshoe hare. Populations in
northern boreal regions fluctuate in response to snowshoe hare
population level cycles; however, this cycling has not been found to
occur in Washington (Stinson, 2001).
    Canada lynx inhabit moist coniferous forests with cold, snowy
winters. In Washington, the majority of lynx records and evidence of
reproduction are from older lodgepole, subalpine fir, and spruce
forests at elevations higher than 4,000 feet (Stinson, 2001). Based on
Washington surveys, the nearest designated critical habitat for the
Canada lynx is located in existing Lynx Management Zones of the
Okanogan National Forest. The Okanogan Lynx Management Zone contains
extensive stands of lodgepole pine and supports one of the largest lynx
subpopulation in Washington. The project area, however, is not located
within this designated critical habitat.
    Furthermore, forests around the project area include shrub-steppe
and riparian species that are located well below elevations typically
occupied by Canada lynx, and are not characterized as forest habitat
that would be considered suitable for this species. Prey opportunities
are also not available at or near roadways, proposed facilities, and
other project features close to the Similkameen River.
    For these reasons, the Canada lynx is unlikely to occur in the
project area. No studies were requested or performed by Okanogan PUD to
investigate the presence or status of the Canada lynx in the project
area. We conclude the Canada lynx is not likely to occur in the project
area. The project would have no effect on the Canada lynx, and for this
reason, we do not discuss this species further in this EA.
    Grizzly Bear--Preferred habitats of grizzly bears include sub-
alpine meadows and open or semi-open forests, but individuals are very
wide-ranging and can be found in diverse habitats. Dens are typically
located far away from human activity on steep slopes where snow
accumulation is deep and persistent. Seasonal movements often occur
associated with patterns of newly sprouted vegetation, ripening
berries, spawning salmon runs, and the availability of other prey, such
as marmots.
    FWS established several recovery zones throughout the western
United States in 1993; the North Cascades Ecosystem Recovery Zone is
the only zone in north central Washington. Current population levels in
this zone are unknown, but are believed to be very low, possibly fewer
than 20 animals (FWS, 2004). Without augmentation, FWS concludes there
is a low likelihood of recovery in the north Cascades (FWS, 2004).
    Grizzly bears are unlikely to occur in the project vicinity other
than as a rare transient. Okanogan PUD did not perform and the agencies
did not request any studies to investigate the presence or status of
the grizzly bear in the project area. The grizzly bear is unlikely to
occur in the project area. The project would have no effect on the
grizzly bear, and we do not discuss this species further in this EA.
    Northern Spotted Owl--Northern spotted owls inhabit temperate
forests of the Pacific Coast region from southwestern British Columbia,
through the Olympic and Cascade ranges in Washington and Oregon to
north central California. The northern spotted owl is commonly
associated with old-growth or mature conifer forest stands, especially
during nesting, although younger stands that have late-successional
stand remnant structures are also sometimes used, especially during
times of dispersal (Thomas et al., 1990).
    Nest sites are generally located in previously excavated cavities
or on platforms in large trees, and northern spotted owls may use nests
built by other species (FWS, 2008). Established pairs normally remain
in the same territories from year to year and foraging areas may reach
nearly 2,500 acres (FWS, 2008). Breeding behavior is generally
initiated in March and continues into June, depending on elevation.
Parental care continues into September and sometimes October, as
fledglings learn to fly and hunt on their own. FWS considers the period
between March 1 and July 15 to be the early breeding season, when birds
are most vulnerable to disturbance. Birds may be less sensitive during
the late breeding season (July 16 and September 30).
    The northern spotted owl was listed as federally threatened on June
26, 1990. FWS issued a final recovery plan in May 2008 (FWS, 2008).
Based on Recovery Action 4 of the plan, FWS revised the designation of
critical habitat to provide for a network of managed owl conservation
areas that are of sufficient size and spacing to achieve long-term
recovery of spotted owls. The designation includes only federal lands.
FWS designated managed owl conservation areas in north central
Washington, which includes Critical Habitat Unit 3. It consists of
approximately 115,600 acres in Whatcom, Okanogan, and Chelan counties
and is composed of lands managed by the Okanogan and Wenatchee National
Forests.
    The project area is not located within Unit 3; the project area
does not meet the size requirement of small habitat blocks and is not
within the Okanogan National Forest. The forested areas around Enloe
dam and along the access roads and project facilities do not provide
suitable habitat for nesting, roosting, and foraging. No studies were
requested by FWS or other agencies participating in the licensing, and
none were performed by Okanogan PUD to investigate the presence or
status of northern spotted owls in the project area. The northern
spotted owl is unlikely to occur in the Project area. The project would
have no effect on the northern spotted owl, and we do not discuss this
species further in this EA.
<IP_ADDRESS> Environmental Effects

Aquatic Species

UCR Steelhead

    We evaluated the effects of Okanogan PUD's proposed measures on
aquatic resources, including UCR steelhead, the only listed fish
species known to occur in project affected waters, in section <IP_ADDRESS>,
Aquatic Resources. As we previously noted, the Similkameen River below
Similkameen Falls is designated critical habitat for the threatened UCR
steelhead, and UCR steelhead use the Similkameen River for spawning,
rearing, and thermal refugia.

Our Analysis

    Under the proposed action, fish passage would not be provided at
the dam, and the 370-foot long bypassed reach would only receive a
minimum flow of 10 to 30 cfs during the low flow months,\34\ when most
of the river flow would be diverted through the powerhouse and returned
to the river below the falls. As discussed in section <IP_ADDRESS>, we have
concluded that the Similkameen Falls is a natural barrier to fish
passage preventing fish migration further upstream, so the project
would have no effect on the upstream migration of the UCR steelhead.
Similarly, because steelhead are unable to use the bypassed reach as
habitat, and the reach is not considered critical habitat, there would
be no effect on UCR steelhead by only providing a relatively low
minimum flow in the reach.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \34\ This is Okanogan PUD's alternative minimum flow proposal
based on agreements reached in WQC negotiations with Washington DOE
and Washington DFW, as reported in its filing of October 28, 2010.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Other recent Okanogan PUD proposals related to the WQC

negotiations would also have no effect on the UCR steelhead, or would
act to enhance habitat quality for this species. The proposed
temperature and DO monitoring and associated adaptive management
program would ensure that water quality downstream of the project
continues to meet state standards, and adequate quality for the UCR
steelhead. Other measures related to developing appropriate ramping
rates for spillage flow over Enloe dam, and determining a point of
release for the minimum flow from Enloe dam, would have no effect on
UCR steelhead because this species does not occur upstream of
Similkameen Falls.
    Overall, Okanogan PUD's proposed environmental measures would be
consistent with the Upper Columbia Spring Chinook Salmon and Steelhead
Recovery Plan developed by the Upper Columbia Salmon Recovery Board to
restore viable and sustainable populations of salmon, steelhead, and
other at-risk species through collaborative, economically sensitive
efforts, combined resources, and wise resource management of the Upper
Columbia region. This plan is an outgrowth and culmination of several
conservation efforts in the Upper Columbia River Basin, including
current efforts related to the ESA, state and tribal-sponsored recovery
efforts, subbasin planning, and watershed planning. In regard to Enloe
dam, the plan does not identify upstream and downstream passage of fish
as being a short-term or long-term action that would contribute to the
restoration of these fish stocks. This conclusion was based on the
uncertainty of fish being able to ascend the falls before the
construction of Enloe dam at that site.
    Although Okanogan PUD's overall plans for development of the Enloe
Project would generally enhance aquatic habitat in the Similkameen
River, construction of the project would have the potential to
adversely affect UCR steelhead and UCR steelhead designated critical
habitat. These effects would be associated with: (1) The direct or
indirect effects of blasting activities that may cause mortality or
injury to steelhead adults and juveniles in the plunge pool immediately
below Similkameen Falls; and (2) turbidity plumes and sedimentation,
including potential contaminated sediment, within steelhead habitat,
which could cause injury or mortality of eggs, fry, and juvenile fish
due to smothering or abrasion. Okanogan PUD has proposed several
measures to minimize the effects of construction on downstream aquatic
habitat (the fish salvage plan for blasting, the Spill Response Plan,
the CSMP, the ESCP, employing BMPs, and the Storm Water Pollution
Prevention Plan). The proposed measures would minimize potential take
of UCR steelhead during blasting activities; however, some take due to
physiological stress, injury, predation, or mortality could still
occur. Development of a fish salvage plan that includes seasonal work
windows, in consultation with NMFS, FWS, and Washington DFW, would
reduce the potential for injury or mortality of steelhead during
capture and relocation activities. Measures to control erosion and
sedimentation would also reduce the potential for effects on steelhead,
but some physiological stress could still occur during unanticipated
releases of turbidity or sedimentation.
    Project operations could affect the UCR steelhead, as a result of
some flow fluctuations downstream of the project, and the potential for
adult steelhead to swim into the project draft tubes and impact the
runner blades. The project would be operated run-of-river so that
outflow equals inflow to the reservoir, but there could be some
fluctuations in flow releases as unit operations change or as spill
gates are opened or closed, possibly resulting in the stranding of
redds, fry, and juveniles. Okanogan PUD, however, is proposing a
ramping rate below the project ranging from 1 to 2 inches per hour
depending on the season and time of day. These proposed rates would
minimize any effects related to stranding of UCR steelhead downstream
of the project. Okanogan PUD is also proposing to install draft tube
net barriers to prevent adult steelhead from entering the draft tubes
during operational periods when lower outlet velocities may prevail.
Successful deployment of these barriers would prevent steelhead from
entering the draft tubes and experiencing injury or death by contacting
the runner blades.
    Okanogan PUD also proposes habitat enhancement measures in the
Similkameen River downstream of the project, including supplementing
spawning gravel, transporting large woody debris to enhance habitat
diversity, and providing side channel enhancements that would provide
coldwater side channel habitat for steelhead juveniles. Although the
measures would likely enhance aquatic habitat for listed UCR steelhead
downstream of the falls, the risk of incidental adverse effects on
individual fish cannot be entirely eliminated. Some short-term habitat
degradation would occur during construction and implementation of the
gravel supplementation program and side-channel enhancement projects.
All of these proposed measures would entail instream work, which has
the potential to result in injury or mortality of eggs, fry, or
juvenile trout that may be in the direct path of instream equipment, or
during placement of structures and/or gravel in the stream channel, or
create turbidity and sedimentation. In the long term, these measures
would provide benefits to steelhead, such as improved spawning and
rearing habitat in the river downstream of the dam and increased
productivity. Okanogan PUD's proposed biological review process,
fisheries monitoring, and adaptive management program would also
provide long-term benefits for UCR steelhead and UCR steelhead
designated critical habitat, because those programs would ensure that
the proposed mitigation and enhancement measures are being successfully
implemented.
    Although long-term benefits would occur as a result of measures
proposed by Okanogan PUD, we conclude that licensing the project would
adversely affect the federally listed UCR steelhead because proposed
project construction and habitat enhancement projects could result in
short-term increases in turbidity and sedimentation and the risk of
injury or mortality to eggs, fry, juveniles, or adults as a result of
runoff from construction and instream use of equipment. Construction of
the tailrace could result in injury or mortality to eggs, fry,
juveniles, or adults caused by capture and transport, relocation, and
blasting. We conclude that the proposed project would not appreciably
diminish the value of designated UCR steelhead critical habitat for
both survival and recovery of this species, but because of potential
impacts on steelhead during the construction period, we will request
formal consultation with NMFS pursuant to section 7 of the ESA.

Terrestrial Species

    The following sections summarize our analyses for Ute ladies'-
tresses, which may be affected by project operation or project-related
activities.

Effects of Construction, Operation, and Maintenance of Project
Facilities on Federally Listed Species and Their Habitats (BOTA-14 and
WILD-03)

    Habitat for the threatened Ute ladies'-tresses has been identified
within the project area. Okanogan PUD did not observe this species in
surveys of the project area it conducted in 2006, 2007, and 2009. The
survey of the proposed side-channel enhancement site was conducted in
October 2009, outside the typical mid-July through August flowering
period when Ute ladies'-tresses can be distinguished from other

plants; Okanogan PUD states, however, that the species may still be
flowering or fruiting as late as October.\35\ BLM states that Okanogan
PUD's plant surveys were not adequate to determine the presence or
absence of Ute ladies'-tresses. In response to agency concerns about
its plant surveys, Okanogan PUD proposes to conduct an additional 3
years of surveys for Ute ladies'-tresses prior to construction (BOTA-
14). Surveys for this species would be conducted in the summer/fall and
would be timed to correlate with the flowering period for the Ute
ladies'-tresses. Okanogan PUD would also take the following measures
that would protect the Ute ladies'-tresses: employ BMPs to limit
vegetation disturbance in sensitive riparian and wetland habitats to
the extent possible, control noxious weeds, conduct an environmental
training program for its employees, and provide a biological monitor
during construction.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \35\ The 2006 survey was conducted in July and the 2007 survey
was conducted in July-August.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    FWS, Washington DFW, and BLM recommend additional surveys, using
FWS and BLM's protocols, for Ute ladies'-tresses and other threatened
and endangered plant species as a component of their recommended
vegetation resources management plan. BLM further recommends that the
section of the vegetation resources management plan, which expands on
Okanogan PUD's proposed Vegetation Plan include surveying,
documentation of species occurrences, evaluation of impacts, and
mapping and digital database development.
    FWS and Washington DFW recommend that Okanogan PUD survey and
document threatened and endangered plants within 1 year of any license
issuance and every 5 years thereafter for the duration of the license
term. The agencies further recommend that Okanogan PUD monitor known
threatened and endangered plant habitat at 5-year intervals and
evaluating the effects of any new ground-disturbing activities or
substantive changes in project operation on listed plants and their
habitats prior to implementation of the activities or changes in
operation. Okanogan PUD would be required to evaluate the adequacy of
the vegetation resources management plan and update the plan as needed.

Our Analysis

    Habitat for Ute ladies'-tresses has been identified within the
project area along the reservoir and near the proposed side-channel
enhancement area. According to Fertig et al. (2005), perennial stream
and riverine habitats occupied by this species typically have short
vegetative cover maintained by grazing, periodic flooding, or mowing.
In the absence of disturbance or as sites become drier, streamside wet
meadow habitats may become encroached by riparian shrub or woodland
vegetation. Ute ladies'-tresses populations may persist for a short
time in the grassy understory of woody riparian shrublands, but do not
appear to thrive under these conditions.
    An approximately 9-square-foot area at the edge of the reservoir
could support Ute ladies'-tresses, although no plants were found in
Okanogan PUD's 2006 and 2007 surveys. Okanogan PUD states that any Ute
ladies'-tresses present along the reservoir would be adversely affected
if they occur in the area that would be permanently inundated by the
proposed crest gate operation and if they are unable to establish at
the new water line (Okanogan PUD, 2009d).
    Suitable Ute ladies'-tresses habitat has also been identified at
the proposed side-channel enhancement site. Okanogan PUD's October 2009
survey of the site did not identify this species. Okanogan PUD
anticipates temporary disturbance of vegetation at the side-channel
enhancement site to install the well pad, buried pipeline, and one
power pole for a distribution line to the well, and proposes to
minimize disturbance to the extent practicable. The disturbed area
would not exceed 40 feet in width within the lower 400 feet of the
channel. Along the pipeline route, the disturbance area is assumed to
be a 10-foot-wide by 300-foot-long corridor. Operation and maintenance
activities at the side-channel enhancement site would likely be limited
to activities at the well. The footprint of the proposed construction
and subsequent operation and maintenance activities could be adjusted,
if necessary, to avoid adversely affecting any Ute ladies'-tresses
identified in additional surveys.
    Okanogan PUD's 2006 and 2007 surveys of the Enloe dam and reservoir
area were adequate to identify suitable Ute ladies'-tresses habitat and
were likely adequate to determine the presence of the species, although
it is unclear whether Okanogan PUD's were conducted using protocols
acceptable to FWS and BLM. Therefore, there would likely be no adverse
effects on Ute ladies'-tresses as a result of inundation of the 9-
square-foot-area of suitable habitat at the edge of the reservoir.
However, Okanogan PUD's surveys of the suitable habitat at the proposed
side-channel enhancement site were not conducted at the optimum time to
identify the species.
    In order to ensure the protection of threatened and endangered
plant species, we agree with Okanogan PUD, FWS, and BLM that additional
surveys should be conducted before land-clearing or land-disturbing
activities, both in the Enloe dam and reservoir area and the side-
channel enhancement site.
    Monitoring of known threatened and endangered plant habitat and
evaluating the effects of any new ground-disturbing activities or
substantive changes in project operation would reduce any potential
effects on threatened and endangered species such as the Ute ladies'-
tresses and their habitat. Preparing and implementing a monitoring plan
after consultation with FWS, BLM, and Washington DFW would ensure that
the 3 years of additional surveys are adequate to determine the
presence or absence of Ute ladies'-tresses and other listed species. If
the surveys identify a listed species in areas that would be affected
by the proposed project, developing a plan, after consultation with the
agencies, to avoid or minimize adverse impacts would be appropriate. We
conclude that licensing the project, with staff's recommended measures,
would be not likely to adversely affect the Ute ladies'-tresses.
3.3.6 Recreation and Land Use
<IP_ADDRESS> Affected Environment
    The proposed project boundary includes about 2.75 miles of the
Similkameen River. The proposed upstream project boundary extends
upstream from the dam (RM 8.80) approximately 2.50 miles (RM 11.30);
the downstream extends 0.25 mile to encompass a short reach of the
tailwater (RM 8.55).

Recreation

Regional Recreation Opportunities
    As we've said, the Enloe Project is located in north-central
Washington about 2 miles south of the Canadian border and 3.5 miles
northwest of the city of Oroville on the Similkameen River in Okanogan
County (figure 5). BLM manages the recreation resources that provide
recreational opportunities within the Enloe Project area. The BLM's
Spokane District, Wenatchee Field Office, manages the informal Miner's
Flat area located about 3 miles upstream of Enloe dam and 0.25 mile
upstream of the project boundary. Dispersed camping occurs on the Flat,
which includes several informal fire rings created by recreational
users, and there are several trails and a rough road

that provides access to the river. Similkameen Camp, another primitive
campground maintained by the BLM, is located approximately 2.25 miles
upstream from the project boundary.
BILLING CODE 6717-01-P

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TN17MY11.004

BILLING CODE 6717-01-C

    No formal or developed recreation facilities are located within the
Enloe Project area. The nearest developed campground is about 4 miles
east of Enloe dam, in Osoyoos Lake State Veteran's Memorial Park.
Osoyoos Lake State Veteran's Memorial Park is a 47-acre camping park on
a 14-mile-long lake that stretches several miles north into British
Columbia.
    The park has 86 standard camping sites, one dump station, two
restrooms (one accessible) and two showers, a park office, small store
and entrance kiosk. Recreational activities include camping,
picnicking, boating, swimming, fishing, wildlife viewing, bird
watching, and horseshoe pits. Winter activities in the park include ice
skating, snow playing, and ice fishing.
    Washington DFW owns two river access sites on the Similkameen River
upstream of the Enloe Project area. The site known as Cutchie
4 is located about 7 miles west of Oroville on the Loomis-
Oroville Road. The site is surrounded by private land and is accessible
only from the river; it has no developed facilities. Another site known
as Cutchie 3 is located about 1.5 miles south of Nighthawk on
the Loomis-Oroville Road.
    The Loomis-Oroville Road in the vicinity of the Enloe Project area
is designated as a segment of the Pacific Northwest National Scenic
Trail (Scenic Trail). The Scenic Trail is a 1,200-mile-long multi-use
recreation trail that runs from the Continental Divide in the Rocky
Mountains to the Pacific Ocean. The Pacific Northwest Trail Association
constructed and maintains the Scenic Trail. A new Okanogan County
Nighthawk Scenic Trail (non-motorized trail) is currently under
construction and follows the abandoned railroad bed and Similkameen
River between Oroville and Nighthawk for a total of 12.5 miles. The
portion of the trail that has been completed can be accessed from the
City of Oroville and travels 3.5 miles to a scenic view of Similkameen
Falls at about RM 8.5 and just outside of the lower end of the proposed
project boundary (Okanogan County, 2010). The corridor of the old
railroad bed for the Great Northern Railroad runs through the
Similkameen River Valley, roughly following the west bank of the
Similkameen River from the railroad trestle bridge located about 2
miles below Enloe dam. The old railroad bed passes through the proposed
project boundary and goes through a tunnel near the upstream end of the
Enloe Project area. BLM owns and manages most of the Great Northern
Railroad corridor within the proposed project boundary.
    The Water Trail Committee is developing a work plan for a water
trail catering to canoes and kayaks in the Columbia River Basin. The
route of the proposed trail would include the Similkameen River from
the Canadian border to the confluence with the Okanogan River at
Oroville. The Water Trail Committee, working with federal, State, and
local partners, proposes to develop infrastructure, including launch
sites, directional signs, educational signs, sanitary sites, and
campsites.
    Extreme Adventures and Alpine Fishing Guides, a commercial
outfitter, provides raft floating and fishing trips on the Similkameen
River. This outfitter provides three experiences, including: (1) A
scenic flat water float that starts at the Canadian border and ends
near Nighthawk or at Washington DFW's Cutchie 3 site
(mentioned above); (2) an introduction to whitewater experience that
starts at Miner's Flat and ends at Shanker's Bend; and (3) a trip that
runs through Enloe Dam Canyon, which starts below Enloe dam and the
falls and provides some whitewater experiences depending on the season.

Regional Comprehensive Plans

    In terms of regional recreational management goals, Washington
State Recreation and Conservation Office (2008) identified the
following policy statements in its Defining and Measuring Success: The
Role of State Government in Outdoor Recreation, A State Comprehensive
Outdoor Recreation Planning Document:
     Recognize outdoor recreation sites and facilities as vital
elements of the public infrastructure, essential to the health and
well-being of Washington citizens, and important to visitors;
     Assist local and state agencies in providing recreation
sites and facilities that benefit our citizens' health and well-being;
     Provide adequate and continuing funding for operation and
maintenance needs of state-owned fish and wildlife habitat, natural
areas, parks, and other recreation lands to protect the state's
investment in such lands;
     Work in partnership with federal agencies to ensure the
availability of a variety of opportunities and settings for outdoor
recreation;
     Encourage the private sector to contribute needed public
recreation opportunities; and
     Encourage all agencies to establish a variety of financial
resources that can be used to significantly reduce the backlog of
needed outdoor recreation, habitat, and open space projects.

Recreation Opportunities Within the Enloe Project Area

    There are no formal, developed recreation sites within the project
boundary. Public use of undeveloped dispersed recreation sites consists
primarily of individuals who access the shoreline for fishing, hunting,
swimming, paddle sports (i.e., canoeing, kayaking, and river rafting),
picnicking, camping, hiking, biking (road touring and mountain biking),
ATV riding, horseback riding, gold prospecting, bird and wildlife
watching, photography, and scenic driving. Winter activities include
fishing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and cross-country skiing when
weather allows.
    On the east side of the river, two access roads to project lands
spur off of Loomis-Oroville Road. These access roads are not maintained
for passenger vehicles. The Enloe Dam Road or downstream access road is
a steep, one-lane road that contains exposed embankments, heavy ruts,
and active erosion areas. This county road is unsafe for passenger
vehicles and lies partially within the Enloe Project boundary. The
upstream access road or OTID Road provides informal access to the river
corridor and the reservoir shore for public use . Heavy brush impedes
clearance, and the road is heavily rutted and steep in places. The
upstream access road is impassable during the spring and early summer
due to the spring runoff and remains muddy for some time after the peak
flow period.
    Informal/unimproved reservoir access ramps are located just
upstream from the safety barrier. The old powerhouse eastbank access
road now provides pedestrian access only to the shoreline area below
the dam for boaters, miners, anglers, and hikers. An informal/
unimproved parking area is located near the top of the dam from which
emerge informal user-created trails providing access to the reservoir
above the dam and some dispersed camping areas on the east bank of the
reservoir.
    The steep terrain limits access to the shoreline on the west bank
of the Enloe reservoir and downstream of the dam. Below the dam and the
falls, the Similkameen River is confined between nearly sheer rock
walls until the canyon opens just below the railroad trestle about 2
miles downstream from Enloe dam. This downstream canyon area is
accessible only on foot from the east bank, via informal user trails.
Access to the west bank is limited because the old rail bed crosses
private land and is gated. From the west bank, access crosses private
land and occurs via game trails and existing hiking trails

leading to the river from the rail grade, which sits nearly 100 feet in
places, above the river. The only other means of access is by boat.

Recreation Use Within the Enloe Project Area

    Shore fishing and boating are the most popular activities inside of
the Enloe Project area. In the past, fishing for steelhead and Chinook
salmon has been popular downstream of the falls, and some trout and
bass fishing has also taken place there.
    During high water periods, the river attracts a limited number of
whitewater enthusiasts who run the river above Shanker's Bend and below
the dam. As water levels drop and the temperatures warm, the river sees
more relaxed water-based recreation. Rafting, kayaking, and inner-
tubing have been observed both above and below Enloe dam in the Project
area. Swimming near Shanker's Bend and floating in the canyon below the
dam are popular activities during these periods. Boaters and floaters
use a number of informal, user-developed access points in the Project
area. Some users walk down the old access road on the east bank of the
river to launch rafts, kayaks, and inner tubes just below the waterfall
downstream of the dam.
    Okanogan PUD conducted one visitor intercept survey between June 1
and October 15, 2006, to coincide with the peak recreational use,
particularly to encompass the recreational gold mining season, to
gather information to estimate visitor use of the Enloe Project area.
Because the survey was conducted during only one recreational use
season (2006), Okanogan PUD assumed that 2006 was an ``average''
recreational use year. Recreational use estimates were based on 59
survey records completed with respondents in the field on 21 days from
June 1 through October 15, 2006. Surveys were conducted on weekdays,
weekend days, and ``peak'' days (selected holiday weekends).
    Survey results indicate that use of the Enloe Project area is
estimated at 1,378 user days during the June 1-October 15 peak
recreation season. Table 14 provides Okanogan PUD's estimate of monthly
user-days during the June-October recreation season. Use peaks quickly
in July and remains at a fairly constant level from August through
October. Outside of the Enloe Project area the most popular
recreational activity is gold prospecting followed by boating, shore
fishing, and sightseeing. Most of the mining and camping activities
occur outside of the Enloe Project area.

      Table 14--Estimate of User Days by Month for the Project Area
                      [Source: Okanogan PUD, 2008a]
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                       Estimate of user
                                                             days
                        Month                        -------------------
                                                       Number    Percent
------------------------------------------------------------------------
June................................................       190      13.8
July................................................       346      25.1
August..............................................       267      19.4
September...........................................       278      20.2
October.............................................       297      21.6
                                                     -------------------
  Total.............................................     1,378     100.0
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Table 15 indicates estimated user days by type of day. In this
area, weekend and weekday use levels are similar, but peak days show a
marked increase in use.
    Fishing occurs mainly in the lower reaches of the Similkameen River
near Oroville; however, many anglers walk down the old access road on
the east bank of the river to fish just below the dam. Okanogan PUD
reported that as many as 30 people have been seen at one time fishing
below the falls. In response to surveys, visitors expressed the
importance of the river corridor below the dam and falls for fishing,
gold prospecting, and sightseeing; a desire for safety features or
assigned a high priority to the provision of additional facilities; and
a need for picnic facilities, vault toilets, garbage collection, and
improved river access.

                       Table 15--Estimate of User Days by Type of Day for the Project Area
                                          [Source: Okanogan PUD, 2008a]
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                                                                                Per