Final Environmental Assessment for a Temporary Deviation in the Operation of Cochiti Lake and Jemez Canyon Dam, Sandoval County, New Mexico

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Albuquerque District (Corps) is proposing a temporary deviation from its normal flood control operation at the Cochiti Lake Project as well as the Jemez Canyon Dam Project, Sandoval County, New Mexico. This planned deviation from the current Water Control Manual would entail a proposal to implement a temporary deviation from its Water Control Manual for the Cochiti Lake Project and the Jemez Canyon Dam Project to facilitate spawning and recruitment flows for the Rio Grande silvery minnow, (RGSM, Hybognathus amarus), and provide overbanking opportunities to create ideal habitat for the Southwestern Willow Flycatcher, (SWFL, Empidonax traillii extimus). The Cochiti Lake Project and Jemez Canyon Dam Project were authorized for flood and sediment control by Public Laws 858, 516, and 86-645. The Cochiti Dam Project is also authorized for recreation (PL 534), and development of fish and wildlife resources. All Project facilities and a major portion of the flood control pool lie within the bounds of the Pueblo de Cochiti and Pueblo of Santa Ana. The duration of the planned deviation for both projects is from late February through June beginning in 2009 for the next 5 years. Approval from Pueblo de Cochiti, Pueblo of Santa Ana and the Rio Grande Compact Commission (Commission) will be required for the Corps to implement the proposed deviation. Prior to implementation, the planned 5-year deviation would require the approval of the Corp's South Pacific Division.