The project will occur in the lower Twisp River and the Middle Methow Assessment Units. The lower Twisp River is affected by the volume of irrigation water diverted, limiting available spawning and rearing habitat for ESA-listed fish species. Acquisition of water in the lower Twisp for instream benefit is a Tier 1 strategic action (as are water temperature, levee removals, and reduction of fish injury and mortality) in the 2013 Biological Strategy. A portion of the MVID project will occur in the Middle Methow River, where side channel and wetland connections are listed as the number 1 ecological concern in the 2013 Biological Strategy. Currently, Alder Creek empties into the MVID West irrigation ditch, depriving flow to its alluvial fan and associated wetlands at the Alder Creek confluence with the Methow River.  In addition, the current condition of the MVID East Canal contributes to decreased water quantity in the Middle Methow. Currently, operation and maintenance of the MVID's Twisp River point of diversion involves push-up dam construction during low flows, which results in injury or mortality of listed fish species and alteration of instream habitat. In addition, redds and juveniles can become stranded in the MVID West Canal's intake and fish return channel. The project will eliminate the MVID irrigation diversion and address these impacts, and return a minimum of 11 cfs (and up to 15 cfs, the present diversion rate) and permanently trust the saved wa