Simulated effects of water exchanges on streamflow and specific conductance in the Arkansas River upstream from Avondale, Colorado

The potential effects of future water-exchange scenarios on streamflow and specific conductance in the Arkansas River were simulated with two accounting models. The major processes in the models simulated the historical exchange potential in the Arkansas River and the operation of a native and a nonnative Arkansas River water exchange. The potential effects of future exchange conditions were simulated using streamflow and specific-conductance data from the 1986-93 water-year study period. Hydrologic conditions during the study period were considered about average, compared to the long-term 1966-96 conditions. Therefore, the simulation results were indicative of the potential effects of future exchange conditions on streamflow and specific conductance during periods of average hydrologic conditions.