Global analysis of the sedimentation volume on portuguese reservoirs

Abstract

This paper aims to examine the process of reservoir sedimentation, namely to try to estimate the sediment volume deposited in the main Portuguese reservoirs. The changes in fluvial sediment transport induced by the construction of dams on the major Portuguese rivers are described. Based on the values of dead volumes, the current situation of 166 Portuguese reservoirs is analysed to obtain an order of magnitude of available sediments and pre-select reservoirs that could potentially be integrated into a project for the artificial sand nourishment of beaches. This work was carried out as a starting point in order to implement a national plan for the use of reservoir sediments as an "added value" to the economy, which is as yet generally unexploited. (c) 2014 Taylor & Francis Group, London.