Annual flood damages continue to rise in the United
States in spite of massive investments in flood control structures
since 1936. These increased losses can be attributed, in part,
to the inherent Limitations in scope and nature of traditional
"structural" approaches to flood control. Acquisition of flood
plain lands is...
Small hydroelectric development, the construction or reconstruction
of small scale hydropower systems, has become a much discussed alternative
for the future supply of U.S. energy. In the Pacific Northwest,
the greatest potential for small hydro application is in the development
of new dam sites. Although much is known about the...
Flood damage mitigation by means of land use regulations,
as mandated by the National Flood Insurance Act of 1968, has been
controversial and slow in implementation, in part due to the conjecture
that residential land values will be adversely affected
in the regulated areas. There has been relatively little research...
Nonpoint sources of pollution are being recognized
nationwide as a significant threat to groundwater quality.
In Oregon, groundwater supplies in several areas have been
affected by contamination possibly caused by nonpoint
sources associated with agricultural activities, on-site
sewage disposal, and inadequate hazardous materials
management in urban areas. State groundwater protection...
Oregon's minimum stream flow program
attempts to preserve adequate flows of water for
the instream needs of aquatic life and pollution
abatement. Conflicts with consumptive uses of
water have indicated that improvements are needed
in the program. The conflicts are explored and
specific improvements suggested.
Bull Run Reserve was used as a case study of conflicts
in management. The Bull Run Watershed supplies the Portland
Metropolitan area with its water. Conflicting goals led to
various management decisions. Sustained yield logging was allowed
within the watershed. Concern that continued logging
would lead to increased turbidity and...