Jointly thinking the post-dam future: exchange of local and scientific knowledge on the lakes of the Lower Rufiji, Tanzania

Duvail, S.; Mwakalinga, A.B.; Eijkelenburg, A.; Hamerlynck, O.; Kindinda, K.; Majule, A.. 2014 Jointly thinking the post-dam future: exchange of local and scientific knowledge on the lakes of the Lower Rufiji, Tanzania [in special issue: Hydrological science for environmental flows] Hydrological Sciences Journal, 59 (3-4). 713-730. 10.1080/02626667.2013.827792

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Official URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/02626667.2013.827792

Abstract/Summary

A large dam is planned at Stiegler’s Gorge in Tanzania. The change in the Rufiji River flood pattern will affect downstream ecosystems. This paper concentrates on the highly productive floodplain lakes that play a vital role in local livelihoods. A participatory monitoring system with village-based observers collected water level, rainfall, fisheries and food data from 2001 to 2011. Water balances of the lakes show dependence on the Rufiji River flood, with varying vulnerability. With the dam design flood of 2500 m3 s-1, lakes with a high threshold and small catchment will dry out quickly. Lakes with a lower threshold and substantial catchment are more robust but may still dry out during prolonged local drought. Analysis of rainfall (1923–2012) indicates a recent decrease. The data were analysed through feedback workshops with local observers, government technical staff and researchers. Through this collaborative approach, local capacity in preparing for the post-dam future was enhanced.

Item Type:	Publication - Article
Digital Object Identifier (DOI):	10.1080/02626667.2013.827792
UKCEH and CEH Sections/Science Areas:	Acreman
ISSN:	0262-6667
Additional Keywords:	Stiegler’s Gorge Dam, lakes, participatory science, environmental flows, climate change, Rufiji River, Tanzania
NORA Subject Terms:	Ecology and Environment Hydrology
Date made live:	29 Jan 2015 11:52 +0 (UTC)
URI:	https://nora.nerc.ac.uk/id/eprint/509532

Item Type:

Publication - Article

Digital Object Identifier (DOI):

10.1080/02626667.2013.827792

UKCEH and CEH Sections/Science Areas:

Acreman

ISSN:

0262-6667

Additional Keywords:

Stiegler’s Gorge Dam, lakes, participatory science, environmental flows, climate change, Rufiji River, Tanzania

NORA Subject Terms:

Ecology and Environment
Hydrology