Beyond Dams/Energy

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Beyond Dams

Options & Alternatives

A report by American Rivers & International Rivers Network

• Introduction and Overview
• Alternatives to Dams
• Water Supply
  • Water Diversion and Irrigation Methods
  • Sustainable Water Management Alternatives
• Flood Management
  • Reducing Runoff
  • Riparian and In-River Flood Management
  • Separating the People and the Threat
• Energy
  • End-Use Efficiency
  • Emerging Technologies
• Concluding Thoughts

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Concerns over the environmental and societal impacts of fossil fuel burning and nuclear power, and questions of energy security mean that identifying viable energy alternatives is a widespread concern affecting everyone, not just those interested in river restoration or hydropower dam construction. About 2400 hydropower dams generate roughly ten percent of the electricity in the United States. While many of those dams will continue to operate profitably, some dams no longer produce enough power to justify their benefits. By taking a look at the longer-term alternatives presented below, we can begin to consider options that eliminate the ecological concerns raised by hydropower dams and other traditional energy sources. The utilization of one or a combination of the following alternatives can help a community or government eliminate the need for an existing or proposed dam.