Re-thinking hydro dam management: A conservation tool for preserving of Nova Scotia’s important freshwater habitats.

The implementation of hydroelectric power over the past 100 years in Nova Scotia has resulted in changes to the habitats of many important species. In the watersheds where hydro dams have been constructed, plant, fish and animal habitat have all been impacted to some extent. Although some of these impacts have been positive (the creation or reservoirs have made good fish habitat for example), degradation in the habitat of many species has also been documented. However it may be possible to manage hydro dam infrastructure in such a way that these important habitats are preserved or even recovered. The objective of this project is to research and develop management strategies that could be used by Nova Scotia Power to manage their hydro dams in a way that is more conducive to species and their habitat needs, while also meeting their electricity production targets.

Faculty Supervisor:

Michelle Adams

Student:

Partner:

Discipline:

Life Sciences

Sector:

Utilities

University:

Dalhousie University

Program:

Accelerate