Become a member of HydroSediNET
Join the Network and support the planning, implementation and operation of effective and sustainable sediment management in storage reservoirs and Run-of-River hydropower plants.
Sediment management strategies
To sustainably develop a new dam, sediment management strategies that will be needed in the future should be identified and incorporated into the original design. Sustainable use of existing storage reservoirs and run-of-river hydropower facilities may require changes in operating rules, structural modifications facilitating the implementation of sustainable sediment management strategies.
With support from
HydroSediNet gratefully acknowledges the financial support extended by the Energy Sector Management Assistance Program (ESMAP) to develop and maintain this platform. ESMAP is a partnership between the World Bank and 18 partners to help low and middle-income countries reduce poverty and boost growth through sustainable energy solutions.
ESMAP provides users with open access to all its data and knowledge via its external website in compliance with existing privacy policy and terms of use: www.esmap.org.
The importance of managing sediment
Reservoir storage is required to regulate natural hydraulic flows. However, this storage capacity is now being depleted by sedimentation faster than new reservoir capacity is being built, resulting in the declining trend of net reservoir storage. Per capita storage is now estimated to be similar to the value in 1960s, and continues trending downward. This underscores the non-sustainable nature of the world’s surface water supplies and hydropower infrastructure.
There is clear need for sustainable management addressing sediment quality as well as quantity related issues.
45
km3 / year average loss
Is the average annual global storage loss due to reservoir sedimentation, equivalent to losing storage of 300 to 400 large dams annually. This leads to a declining trend of global net reservoir storage.
13
billion USD
Is the cost necessary to replace the loss of storage due to reservoir sedimentation each year.
7000
km3 storage capacity
Is the total global constructed storage capacity.
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May 2019
Implementing sediment management strategies is essential to extend the life of a project, to ensure a reliable and sustainable source of water and energy, and to maintain the river connectivity
The Network
HydroSediNet is an international network fostering collaboration between those involved in sediment management including hydropower companies, utilities, manufacturers, consulting firms, universities and research institutions, governmental agencies, NGOs and financial institutions.
Discover resources
Expand your knowledge with freeware and open-source technical analysis tools, publications, and research projects.
Find activities
Discover upcoming events, conferences and webinars to connect with the sediment management community.
Sediment management news
Find blogs and case studies promoting sustainable sediment management and adaptation to climate change.