Human Interaction With reference to an example you have studied, describe and account for one way in which humans attempt to influence or control natural processes - Leaving Cert Geography - Question B - 2010

An example of this is the construction of the Hoover Dam on the Colorado River in the United States, which was built to control flooding, provide irrigation, and generate hydroelectric power.

Damming alters the natural hydrological cycle by changing the timing and distribution of water flow. It affects sediment deposition downstream and can disrupt ecosystems that depend on natural river flow patterns.

The impact of damming on fluvial processes can be significant. It typically leads to reduced sediment transport, which can cause riverbeds to erode and affect ecosystems that rely on sediment for habitat formation. In addition, the alteration of water flow can disrupt the spawning of fish species, leading to declines in populations. Furthermore, such interventions can result in changes to the floodplain, affecting the natural vegetation and wildlife that are adapted to seasonal flooding.

In regions where dams have created reservoirs, local climates can change due to increased evaporation and altered water temperature regimes, which can further impact land use and agriculture in the surrounding areas. For instance, communities that rely on seasonal flooding for agricultural practices may find their crops affected by the regulated flow of water downstream.

Overall, while damming can provide benefits such as hydroelectric power and flood control, it is crucial to consider the broader ecological implications and ensure that measures are taken to mitigate negative impacts on natural processes.