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Dam-induced impacts on the water temperature of the Charef River (North East Algeria)

Omar Ramzi Ziouch , Naouel Dali, Rabah Zebsa, Tarek Daifallah, Hadjer Laskri, Chaima Ziani, Rabab Nouar, Zinette Bensakhri

Abstract

Context. Dam’s construction appears to have multi-dimensional effects on the river environment, and it especially affects the thermal condition of rivers. Aims. The objective of this work was to assess downstream thermal responses to the Charef dam in relation to the water flow and the water residence time. Methods. During the year 2012, the hydrological parameters upstream and downstream of the dam were monitored. Key results. Salinity, EC, TDS, and water flow all respond similarly, with larger magnitudes in waters upstream of the dam than downstream, whatever the season. In terms of flux, the Charef dam retains 59% and 56% of the incoming water and TDS fluxes, respectively. Furthermore, the upstream waters temperature is higher than that of the downstream in 83% of samples. During the dry season, the thermal response of the waters downstream of the Charef dam can exceed 2°C (downstream cooling). Conclusions. Despite being a small dam, the water residence time (2.3 years) in the Charef dam has a significant impact on the downstream water temperature. Implications. These temperature changes may cause significant physicochemical and biological issues. Restoration practices like increasing discharges during dry seasons and riparian cover restoration could mitigate thermal impacts and minimize negative impacts.

MF24219  Accepted 13 January 2025

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