Lecture Notes on Dams and Watersheds

Introduction

• Historically, the idea of removing a dam was considered radical.
• Reconnecting watersheds with fish offers hope and connects us to the past.
• Dams have significantly altered landscapes and ecosystems.

Historical Context of Dams

• Early dams were built to divert river flows for machinery.
• Hydroelectric Power:
  • First generated at Niagara Falls.
  • Once provided nearly half of U.S. power.
• Disasters:
  • 1889: South Fork Dam failure led to Johnstown flood, killing 2,200 people.
  • 1928: St. Francis Dam disaster in California.
• Legislation and Projects:
  • 1902: Reclamation Act promoted irrigation in the West.
  • Development led to resource abuse.

Environmental Impact & Conservation

• John Muir led environmental battles against damming natural parks.
• Endangered Species Act (1973) aimed to protect species from extinction.
• The removal of dams like Elwha and Edwards reflects shifts in policy.

Economic and Social Implications

• Dams provided jobs during the Great Depression (e.g., Hoover Dam).
• The era of dam-building was a response to economic demands.
• Many communities rely on dams for energy, water, and jobs.

Controversies and Conflicts

• Environmental Concerns:
  • Dams impact fish migration and ecosystems.
  • Hatcheries often fail to compensate for lost wild fish habitat.

Case Studies

• Elwha River Dam Removal:
  • Largest dam removal in U.S. history.
  • Aimed to restore wild salmon runs.
• Snake River Dams:
  • Criticized for limited power contribution and negative environmental impact.
• Condit Dam on White Salmon River:
  • Removed due to inefficient power generation.

Cultural and Indigenous Perspectives

• Indigenous Rights:
  • Treaties promised the preservation of native ways of life.
  • Dams like Celilo Falls destroyed cultural sites and fishing grounds.

Modern Perspectives and Future Directions

• There is a movement to remove obsolete or harmful dams.
• Some argue for selective dam removal while maintaining necessary structures.
• Current projects include the Klamath River restoration.

Conclusion

• The conversation around dams is evolving.
• Balance is needed between human development and environmental conservation.
• Potential future directions involve reassessing the necessity and impact of existing dams in the U.S.

Key Takeaway: Dams have played a significant role in shaping both landscapes and societies. However, the environmental and cultural costs have prompted a reevaluation of their place and purpose, leading to increased efforts in dam removal and river restoration.