Case study (Water management) Flashcards
(40 cards)
What are the main factors putting pressure on the Colorado River as a water resource?
Population increase, urbanization, and agricultural demands
What was agreed upon in the 1922 Colorado River Compact?
Seven states agreed to allocate water by state
What are the two main ways the Colorado River is being managed?
Water allocated to each state and 29 dams + numerous diversion projects
What is water stress and how does it relate to the Colorado River?
Water stress is where water demand exceeds water supply
What is Minute 319 and what was its purpose?
Minute 319 was an agreement between the USA and Mexico to give some water back to the river to revive the health and habitat of its delta
Who are the key stakeholders involved in the Colorado River management?
Farmers, city dwellers, environmentalists, recreationalists, indigenous groups, Mexican people, and the US federal government
What are the environmental impacts of the Colorado River management schemes?
Environmental impacts include reduced river flow, habitat destruction, and decreased water quality
How has urbanization affected water demand in the Colorado River basin?
Urbanization has increased water demand, especially in cities like Phoenix and Tucson
What are the challenges associated with meeting all water allocations in the Colorado River management scheme?
Challenges include not having enough water to meet all allocations and the overuse of water by US states
How has climate change impacted the Colorado River?
Climate change has led to drought conditions, reducing the river’s flow
What is the significance of the Glen Canyon Dam?
The Glen Canyon Dam is significant for hydroelectric power generation and water storage.
How does agriculture impact water usage in the Colorado River basin?
Agriculture consumes a significant portion of the river’s water, especially for crops like alfalfa.
What are the benefits and drawbacks of the water diversion projects on the Colorado River?
Benefits include reliable water supply and hydroelectric power; drawbacks include environmental degradation and reduced river flow.
How have indigenous groups been affected by the management of the Colorado River?
Indigenous groups have faced water scarcity and loss of traditional lands and resources.
What measures have been taken to conserve water in the Colorado River basin?
Measures include water-saving technologies, regulations on water use, and public awareness campaigns.
What role does the Colorado River play in the economic activities of the region?
The river supports agriculture, industry, and recreation, which are key economic activities in the region.
What has been the impact of the Colorado River’s water management on biodiversity?
Water management has led to habitat destruction, altered ecosystems, and reduced populations of native species.
Describe the impact of the Colorado River water management on Mexico.
Mexico has experienced reduced water flow, impacting agriculture and communities; Minute 319 was an effort to address some of these issues.
How do the Upper Basin and Lower Basin states differ in their water usage and needs?
Upper Basin states have less developed infrastructure and use less water compared to Lower Basin states, which have higher water demand and more intensive agriculture.
What future challenges does the Colorado River face in terms of water management?
Future challenges include increasing water demand, climate change effects, and the need for sustainable management practices.
How many countries share the River Nile?
11
What are the two main tributaries of the Nile River?
The White Nile and the Blue Nile.
Which countries are part of the Nile River Basin?
Ethiopia, Sudan, Egypt, Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, Eritrea, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
What is the significance of the Nile River to Egypt?
The Nile is Egypt’s primary source of freshwater, crucial for agriculture and drinking water.
