USA: Dams have paid big dividends
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Larry Caldwell, an engineer who worked for the commission and the Natural Resources Conservation Service, explained the theory behind the dams. The basic idea was “to keep the raindrop as close to where it falls as possible.”
“So instead of having large dams downstream, there will be several small dams in tributaries within the watershed area,” Caldwell said. “And each of those dams will collect the runoff from their drainage areas and slowly release it through a pipe. … It will control and greatly reduce the depth of flooding downstream.”
The dams benefit the state to the tune of nearly $100 million per year, mostly by preventing property damage, Caldwell says. The structures prevented $33 million in damages in May alone.
They have proven especially handy during the past year, when rainfall statewide has been far above normal. However, Caldwell noted that when times are dry they’re also important in helping to ensure a reliable water supply.
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