Question

How are dams helpful to us?

Answer 1

Dams provide a range of economic, environmental, and social benefits, including recreation, flood control, water supply, hydroelectric power, waste management, river navigation, and wildlife habitat. They are described below-
1) Recreation
Dams provide prime recreational facilities. Boating, skiing, camping, picnic areas, and boat launch facilities are all supported by dams.

2) Flood control
In addition to helping farmers, dams prevent the loss of life and property caused by flooding.

3) Water storage (Fire and farm ponds)
Dams create reservoirs that supply water for many uses, including industrial, municipal, and agricultural.

4) Irrigation
Croplands are irrigated using water stored in dams. Thousands of jobs are tied to producing crops grown with irrigated water.

5) Electrical Generation
Dams produce over 103,800 megawatts of renewable electricity. Hydropower is considered clean because it does not contribute to global warming, air pollution, acid rain, or ozone depletion.

6) Debris control
In some instances, dams provide enhanced environmental protection, such as the retention of hazardous materials and detrimental sedimentation.

7) Navigation
Dams and locks provide for a stable system of inland river transportation throughout the heartland of the nation.