Reoptimizing global irrigation systems to restore floodplain ecosystems and human livelihoods
Date
2007-10
Authors
Thomas, Gregory A., author
U.S. Committee on Irrigation and Drainage, publisher
Journal Title
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Abstract
The ultimate objective of the Global Survey project is to restore natural ecological functions, environmental services and the livelihoods they support to the downstream floodplains below the major dams of the world. There are today some 45,000 large dams operating in the world, the majority of which were built after World War II, and two-thirds of which are located in developing countries. Designed with a focus on economic and social benefits, these hydraulic projects have endangered the livelihoods of local communities who depend on rivers and their floodplains for their nutrition and livelihoods. In addition, they have caused pervasive damage to freshwater, riparian and estuarine ecosystems that support these human production systems. Yet recent studies suggest that such damage to natural systems and riparian communities is often unnecessary and can be reversed by modifying the operations of these facilities in ways that do not significantly reduce—and can sometimes even enhance—their irrigation, power generation, and flood control benefits. Building on the potential of this recent work, NHI and its partners are undertaking a global inventory of the most promising opportunities and techniques to modify the operations of major water storage and diversion projects.
Description
Presented at the Role of irrigation and drainage in a sustainable future: USCID fourth international conference on irrigation and drainage on October 3-6, 2007 in Sacramento, California.