Effect of artificial flooding for reservoir construction purposes on the biological resources of the flooded area
Russia is currently busy implementing an extensive hydropower program, which will provide population with balanced and safe water supply. The XX century was the era of large-scale land reclamation, huge man-made reservoirs, and powerful hydroelectric power plants, which resulted in numerous artificial floods. Although the diking of large rivers contributed to the economic growth, their construction and operation had serious consequences for many river valleys. Unfortunately, defective diking projects still make this issue relevant. Water resources are the most important factor in human life and in nature. Artificial reservoirs have an enormous impact on the environment. On the one hand, their construction is economically justified; on the other hand, they violate the hydrological regime of the rivers, distort the river valleys, cause soil degradation, and kill terrestrial vegetation in the flooded areas. Moreover, they affect groundwater and river systems, thus causing climate change. Very often, man-made reservoirs deteriorate the sanitary and hygienic state of the adjacent territories, change in the amount of fresh water, and kill the fish. Large reservoirs have always received special attention from scientists, who believe that constant monitoring can prevent disasters. The state takes various measures to preserve water and land, as well as their recreational and biological resources. The mode of operation of hydroelectric power plants and reservoirs is an important factor of environmental protection measures. To minimize the negative consequences of diking, authorities should constantly assess and forecast the state of nature in the related areas, design detailed land development projects, and perform various preventive measures. Thus, this issue requires serious study and planning at the project stage.