Did You Know...

...that the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission has authorized, through its licensing authority under the Federal Power Act, almost 1,700 hydroelectric projects. These projects include about 2,300 dams and multi-purpose water resource developments that, in addition to providing about 55,000 MW of hydroelectric generating capacity (about one-half of the nation's hydro capacity), include other benefits such as flood control water supply, conservation storage, fish and wildlife benefits, recreational development and other uses.

Reservoirs licensed by the FERC provide recreational opportunities that result in about 100 million visitor days annually. Recreational development at hydroelectric projects has also created numerous jobs, increased the local tax base thereby providing funds to improve schools, medical facilities, and other social needs, and created new local economies that have generally raised the standard of living.

Thanks to Ron Corso for contributing this "Benefits of Dams."

(reprinted from the USCOLD Newsletter, November 1994, page 3)