When I talk about what flow is needed for a comfortable run from Burrells Ford to hwy 28 (Section 1, Rock Gorge section), I'm talking about actual flow on that section, not runoff down at the hwy 76 bridge.

Based on my own experience on similar rivers, on sections similar to the wide, relatively low gradient stretches that make up MOST of Section 1, these sections will be passable above 300 cfs, but a lot more comfortable at 450 cfs. 

The areas where Section 1 is steeper, it is also narrower, and 450 cfs should be plenty of water.  But I want to stress, if you have a choice, you don't want to run Section 1 unless there is good water.  And you need a gauge that tells you that there is good water flowing at the Burrells Ford bridge.

On sections 00 (Chattooga Cliffs) and 0, I leave it to the steep creekers to say what is enough water.  Probably Section 00 should have less water to be safe.  Basing a run on a gauge at Burrells Ford would be much better than predicting from the river level at hwy 76.

Paddlers should not have to register in advance.  They should be able to come to the river, examine the level, and then register on the spot.  If the USFS feel they need advance indication of intent and qualifications, then they should set up email pre-registration, after which the paddlers could go run the river when they judge the level to be right. 

If you deliberately run the upper Chattooga below the specified level, or without registering, then they should drive down to the take out and ticket your ass.