Droughts and water management in England and Wales: with particular reference to reservoirs and lakes

Reservoirs and lakes are major sources of water supply, power generation and ecological diversity; they also have considerable amenity value and commonly provide extensive recreational opportunities. In most countries they constitute a primary component in water resources management systems which help bolster resilience to periods of drought. During dry episodes especially, careful stewardship and management of water bodies is essential to ensure that, with temperatures and water demand increasing, drought impacts on both human and wildlife populations are moderated. Here, the impact of droughts over the last 50 years on reservoirs and lakes in England and Wales is reviewed in the context of refinements in water management strategies and the challenges posed by global warming.