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Show Alternative B: Monitor river water quality ( preferred alternative) River waters in the NRA would be monitored periodically to document their continued conformity with health standards or to detect episodes of contamination. Monitoring would be conducted during high runoff and normal flow periods in all of the rivers, with each river segment being monitored once every few years. A problem- assessment survey of backcountry stream waters would be included for the detection of Giardia on at least the Escalante River drainage. Park rangers would continue to monitor compliance with regulations applying to commercial raft trips that require the carry- out of human waste. Alternative C: Increase educational programs on the hazards of drinking untreated water ( preferred alternative) • Current efforts to warn visitors of the health hazards associated with drinking untreated water would be supplemented by informational material developed specifically for the NRA and distributed through visitor contact stations. Included would be information on the most effective disinfection techniques and best- camping practices to avoid disease. ( When health problems do occur on river trips, epidemics are common.) If Giardia is found to be prevalent in particular areas, special signs may be required at trailheads. III. F. 3. Recommended course of action. The expenditures for Alternatives B and C would be low enough to be easily implemented, and public safety and health would be better protected. Under these alternatives, rivers and streams would be monitored for bacterial contamination and the presence of Giardia. Also, educational programs on water quality, disinfection techniques, and backcountry hygiene would be expanded through the distribution of pamphlets, campfire talks, or other means. Signs may be erected at trailheads where a special warning is needed. III. G. Springs, Seeps, and Waterpockets III. G. 1. Statement of the problem. The natural waters of Glen Canyon NRA include springs, seeps, and waterpockets located in canyons and uplands. These waters are recognized for their significance as habitat and as unique ecosystems of the desert, but they have received little study and are poorly understood. Seeps are common in alcoves along the walls of canyons and at the heads of canyons. The seeps, in fact, help form the alcoves. These water sources support a specialized vegetation known as " hanging 37 |