Hydroelectric facilities and fish

Abstract

This article gives an overview the impact hydroelectric power facilities on ichthyofauna and river ecosystems. Issues addressed include the destruction of fish by grates and turbines; disturbances in the hydrological regime of rivers; changes in the water physicochemical regime resulting from damming; the muddying of spawning and feeding grounds. Suggestions are made for counteracting these disadvantageous transformations. This is achieved by equipping hydroelectric facilities with appropriate safety devices that lead fish away from the facility to a secure place where they can swim safely downstream, and also eliminate sharp fluctuations in water level that can occur below dams. It was determined that none of the existing methods eliminate ichthyofauna losses. It is recommended to combine several protection methods such as grates and electric barriers. Due to the negative impact hydroelectric plants have on the ichthyofauna, it is essential that the energy consumers participate in the costs of fish stocking to compensate for losses.

CORRESPONDING AUTHOR:

Wiesław Wiśniewolski, Inland Fisheries Institute, Departament of Rivier Fisheries, Główna 48, Żabieniec, 05-500 Piaseczno, Poland, Tel./Fax: +48 22 7562044,+48 22 7562088; e-mail: rzeki@infish.com.pl