Instream Flow Assessments for Hydropower Applications in California

 Goals and Objectives

 TThe g          The primary goal of this program is to develop a scientific framework for identifying and reducing adverse impacts on aquatic species and habitats from instream flow variations caused by the operation of California hydropower facilities. Understanding how instream flow variations impact sensitive species and aquatic communities will allow stream managers and regulatory agencies to effectively tailor flows for maximal economic, recreational and environmental benefits, and will aid in the cost effective resolution of stakeholder conflicts during hydropower project relicensing proceedings. 

The specific goals and objectives of this program are:

• Identify research priorities on the ecological effects of instream flow variations on aquatic habitat and biotic communities;
   

• Document the ecological effects of existing flow alterations;
   

• Standardize the application of instream flow determination methodologies by establishing quality control standards for widely-used models;
   

• Refine and standardize alternative instream flow methods;
   

• Develop a recommended protocol for assessing possible ecological impacts of instream flow variations;
   

• Develop and disseminate media needed by agencies, researchers, and industry to access and share information intended to enhance the scientific understanding and assessment of instream flow variations on aquatic habitat and biotic communities.

This program meets the PIER Goal of improving the environmental and public health costs/risk of California's electricity improving assessment.  This program also meets the secondary PIER goal of improving the energy cost/value of California's electricity by reducing the time and costs associated with the relicensing of hydropower facilities by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission.