2.2. DAMS & RESERVOIRS

GUIDE TO WATER CONSERVATION

2.2. Dams & Reservoirs

Historically, dams and reservoirs have contributed to drinking water supplies, agricultural production and energy production.  However, some have had negative consequences.  Typical problems that can arise for excessive dams and resevoirs include

• altered water characteristics,
• increased pollutant concentration,
• decreased dissolved oxygen (DO),
• altered temperature (DO and temperature can effect viability for various species),
• loss of habitat, and
• reduced sediment delivery (important to agricultural areas that rely on sediments to replenish soil fertility) (1).

(1) EPA (1995).

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