In general, dams slow the flow of water and change the habitat in the area of the reservoir from riverine to lake/pond. Both the dams operate in a “run-of-river” fashion, so the same amount of water that flows to the reservoir flows through the dam. Therefore, reduced flows are not an issue. Because the Kinni is a cold-water stream, the reservoirs warm up and contribute to a warming of the lower river. The reservoirs can trap sediments from upstream, preventing excess downstream sedimentation. However, reducing downstream sedimentation can also starve the lower river of sediment that would contribute to greater in-stream habitat diversity on the lower river.
How do the dams impact the ecology of the river?
River Ecology - learn more
- How do the dams impact the ecology of the river?
- How common are cold water streams are in this region?
- How does the uniqueness of the Kinni affect the value of restoring the river ecosystem?
- Don’t the dams now, and restored waterfalls with dams removed, prevent upstream fish passage?
- Is upstream movement of invasive species really an issue with dam removal?
- What are the negative impacts of our dams on the ecology of the river including fish, fowl, and other river/lake wildlife?
- Are there any positive impacts of our dams on river ecology?
- If you were to decide whether or not to remove the dams solely on environment impact, would you keep or remove OUR dams?
- Should we spend millions to clean up the Kinni only to see it later re-contaminated in 20-30 years?
