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An impact identification framework for large reservoirs

University of British Columbia

This study is undertaken on the premise that virtually all large reservoir projects, in addition to meeting certain primary objectives, cause certain other secondary effects, which are often unanticipated during planning stages. Whether these secondary effects are deemed to have positive or negative value, their recognition during the preoperational period would be advantageous. Hence, the objective of the thesis is development of a check list framework approach for identification of physical, biological, and human or cultural effects which stem from the creation of reservoirs. The thesis commences with a review of the secondary effects of reservoirs in various parts of the world. Both temperate and tropical environments are considered, and both concrete arch and earth fill dams. The review forms the basis for development of the impact identification framework. A stepped matrix approach is used in the framework. Initially, the potential "objectives" of reservoir creation are identified. Meeting of these "objectives" requires certain "methods of execution", and these are identified on the second axis. The third axis identifies the "impacts" of the various "methods of execution", and continues with an indication of the potential "multiple order consequences". The thesis concludes as the framework approach is applied in an illustrative manner to a proposed reservoir development at Moran Canyon on the Fraser River in southwestern British Columbia. Potential impacts and consequences are discussed. Finally, an assessment is made as to the utility of the framework identification approach, and to methods by which the technique might be improved.

Text

2011-04-12

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http://hdl.handle.net/2429/33570

Planning

University of British Columbia

Graduate