A new online resource for hydropower developers, researchers and operating companies seeking to improve Source: IHAsediment management in reservoirs has been launched by the International Hydropower Association (IHA).

The Hydropower Sediment Management Knowledge Hub presents a range of strategies and resources, including 18 case studies from 15 countries in Africa, Asia, Europe, Central and South America and the Pacific.

Sedimentation in river systems is caused by both natural erosion and human activities such as deforestation, mining, agriculture and infrastructure development.

Sediment transport can cause considerable operational and maintenance challenges for hydropower facilities when passing through critical components of water passageways. Dams are typically designed to provide enough storage to offset 50 to 100 years of sediment accumulation, and changes in the sediment regime can ultimately compromise the expected performance and lifetime of a project.

The new online hub is hosted jointly by IHA with the support of the South Asia Water Initiative, a partnership between the World Bank and the governments of the UK, Australia and Norway.