The Pros And Cons Of The Glen Canyon Dams

When dams are created, such as the Glen Canyon Dam, their done so in hope to manipulate water flow for our benefit. These benefits, or positives come from a wide rang of categories. Some include hydroelectric power, controlled water supply, flood control, recreational areas for leisure activities such as boating and fishing. However, as we have progressed since the building of the damn in 1963, it seems we have dug up a lot more negatives than positives.

The building of the dam has created a problem with the sedimentary flow along the Colorado River, and important aspect for creating and livable habitat for fish, plants, and other wildlife. Since the building of the damn, we have seen four fish species go extinct, and a few more on the brink

(Amanda Lee Myers). Not only did the sediment displacement provide a habitat for plants and animals, it also made beaches for visitors, and helped with the preservation of archaeological sites. (Rubin and others, 2002; Wright and others, 2005).

This is not all lost on the operators of the dam, as we have seen them try to redistribute sediments back into the river, by issuing a three-day flood, thus recreating sand bars and beaches for the natural habitat. (Amanda Myers). The Glen Canyon Dam has created a balancing act for decision makers, On one hand we can generate power, while on the other, we loose plants and animal life. Just like the damn provides water flow to cities and farmland, in return drying up the delta; and important aspect in the distribution of sediments along a river. Without a doubt more needs do be done, however, it should be done in a progressive manner, rather than a reactionary one. For example, once we find a way to harness new energy resources and water supply for the surrounding area, then we can begin to deconstruct the Glen Canyon Dam, and rebuild the once thriving ecosystem.