Introducing Eflows
Originally published in anotherverse I first heard about “eflows” when I was working as an intern. Unacquainted with the term, I researched about it only to discover its interesting theory was closely related to my undergrad thesis work. This essay is an attempt to introduce eflows and their importance. People are dependent on dams for many purposes. Dams are built to control flood, to irrigate agricultural lands, navigate water supply, for hydroelectric purposes and also for recreation. While they provide crucial services for mankind, they also prohibit the natural flow of the water bodies. There are periods where river ceases to flow, to those periods where the rivers flow full and flash out to the sea. Specific patterns of flows support ecosystem services provided by the river system. These are important naturally occurring events. Flood pulses help move the river sediment to the plains. Seasonal inundation of floodplains and wetlands support ground wate...