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U.S. Department of Energy
Office of Scientific and Technical Information

Biotic effects of rapidly varying flow from hydropower facilities

Conference ·
OSTI ID:5793251
Rapid changes in flow below hydroelectric facilities result from peaking operations, where water is typically stored in the reservoir at night and released through turbines to satisfy increased electrical demand during the day. The potential impacts of these short-term recurring disturbances of aquatic systems below dams are important considerations in hydropower development. Reduced biotic abundance, diversity, and productivity in tailwaters may be due to flow variations or a variety of related factors, such as changes in water depth or temperature, or scouring of sediment deposits. Information needs for site-specific evaluations of potential impacts at hydroelectric peaking projects are outlined, along with management and mitigation options to reduce anticipated adverse effects.
Research Organization:
Oak Ridge National Lab., TN (USA)
DOE Contract Number:
W-7405-ENG-26
OSTI ID:
5793251
Report Number(s):
CONF-830939-4; ON: DE84000687
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English