Effect of hydropower dam flow regulation on salt-water intrusion: São Francisco River, Brazil

Paiva, B. P., Schettini, C. A., & Siegle, E. (2024). Effect of hydropower dam flow regulation on salt-water intrusion: São Francisco River, Brazil. Journal of Marine Systems, 241, 103904. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jmarsys.2023.103904

A new study reveals that the construction of hydropower dams on Brazil’s São Francisco River, the fourth largest in Latin America, has drastically altered the river’s estuary, causing a severe increase in saltwater intrusion.

Researchers from our SCOR group found that the regulation of river flow by these dams has significantly reduced river contribution. This reduction has fundamentally increased mixing. The study identified an exponential relationship between the fluvial discharge and salt intrusion.

The overall consequence is that the average salinity in the estuary has increased by a factor of nearly 20 due to this flow regulation.

The findings highlight the need for correct water use and updated water management strategies.