Hard Engineering River Management Quiz

Hard Engineering River Management

• Main purpose is to control flooding and manage river flow through the construction of physical structures.
• Techniques often include the construction of dams, embankments, and flood relief channels to prevent or mitigate flood damage.

Advantages of Building Dams

• Dams regulate river flow, providing water storage for irrigation and drinking, while generating hydroelectric power.
• They create reservoirs that can help maintain water levels during dry periods and reduce flood risk downstream.

Disadvantages of Straightening Rivers

• Straightening rivers can increase water flow speed, leading to heightened erosion of riverbanks and bed.
• Disrupts natural habitats and river ecosystems, negatively impacting biodiversity.

Impact on Erosion Rate

• Straightened rivers typically experience increased erosion rates due to the continuous swift current that undermines banks.
• This can lead to long-term changes in river morphology and contribute to sediment displacement.

Cost Factors for Dam Construction

• High costs of building dams are influenced by materials, labor, environmental assessments, and land acquisition.
• Engineering challenges and the need for extensive infrastructure further elevate expenses.

Consequences of Unreinforced River Banks

• Without reinforced river banks, vulnerability to erosion and collapse increases, leading to potential loss of land and property.
• Floodwaters may inundate areas unexpectedly, resulting in environmental damage and risk to human safety.

Purpose of Embankments at Cockermouth

• Embankments were created to provide flood defense for the town, protecting it from surge waters of the River Derwent.
• They help to regulate river stages and prevent overflow into populated areas.

Disadvantages of Flood Relief Channels

• Flood relief channels can alter the natural flow of rivers, potentially causing flooding in other regions.
• Construction can disrupt local ecosystems and displace wildlife.

Disadvantages of Embankments

• Embankments may create a false sense of security, leading to inadequate flood preparedness in surrounding areas.
• They can restrict the natural movement of water, potentially intensifying flooding upstream.

Purpose of Creating Flood Relief Channels

• Flood relief channels are designed to divert excess water away from vulnerable regions and lower flood risks.
• They help manage high flows during storm events, providing an alternative pathway for overwhelming river volumes.