Environmental Studies and Forestry

Storing and managing water for the environment is more efficient than mimicking natural flows

S. E. Null, H. Zeff, et al.

This innovative research conducted by Sarah E. Null, Harrison Zeff, Jeffrey Mount, Brian Gray, Anna M. Sturrock, Gokce Sencan, Kristen Dybala, and Barton Thompson evaluates the efficiency of allocating water for environmental purposes with storage management compared to mimicking natural flows. The study reveals that storing environmental water significantly enhances ecosystem function while balancing other water demands.

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Abstract

This paper evaluates whether allocating water to the environment, with storage to manage it, is more efficient in meeting ecosystem objectives than mimicking natural flows. Using a priority-based water balance model and a reservoir temperature model, the authors compare pass-through of reservoir inflow with allocating storage capacity and inflow for downstream flow and temperature objectives. Results indicate that storing environmental water is more efficient, improving ecosystem function while mitigating trade-offs with other water demands, particularly concerning cold-water preservation.

Publisher

Nature Communications

Published On

Jun 27, 2024

Authors

Sarah E. Null, Harrison Zeff, Jeffrey Mount, Brian Gray, Anna M. Sturrock, Gokce Sencan, Kristen Dybala, Barton Thompson

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