aerial image of the Bighorn Reservoir
Case Study

Pilot Study of Reservoir Sustainability Options: Bighorn Reservoir

As extended droughts and severe flooding become more common, they impact water levels and combined with large amounts of sediment, further impact the amount of water available to stakeholders. Using a sediment wall as a management tool for sediment accumulation will provide insight on sediment accumulation management for all reservoirs, and better address reservoir sedimentation and other stakeholders’ needs.

Location Bighorn Reservoir
Year
2021

Details

Hazards
Drought
Erosion and Shoreline Recession
Flooding – General
Multiple or All Hazards
Water Quality
Assets
Agriculture and Food Supply
Aquatic and Marine Resources
People
Water Infrastructure – General
Sources

Follow this link to read the full case study by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service:

Pilot Study of Reservoir Sustainability Options: Bighorn Reservoir

Organizations

US Fish & Wildlife Service

Relevant Options

Work with the water utility to keep and update data on source-specific water supplies. Establish and implement sector-appropriate outreach mechanisms when water levels get low. Consider agricultural needs when updating current water management infrastructure to maintain high-quality agricultural water supply at a reasonable cost Promote and support sustainable practices in all areas of the food system. The food economy is an integral contributor to the overall economic vitality of the City.

Steps to Resilience

Get Started
Understand Exposure
Assess Vulnerability & Risk
Investigate Options
Prioritize & Plan
Take Action
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Image Credit

Bureau of Reclamation Research and Development Office