Prediction of water temperature in stratified reservoir and effects on downstream irrigation area: A case study of Xiahushan reservoir

With increasing concern in environmental and ecological protection, more studies have focused on solving the problems caused by dam. Large reservoirs often release low-temperature water in spring and summer, which have adverse effects on downstream ecosystem. The 3-D Environmental Fluid Dynamics Code (EFDC) and 1-D longitudinal stream temperature model were used in this paper, to predict the water temperature in reservoir and canal and analyze the effects on irrigation area. The results indicate that the affected area is within a 55 km distance mainly in the period between April and June. Some management and engineering measures should be adopted to reduce the impact.

► Simulated the water temperature of a stratified reservoir and river channel. ► Illustrated the rice growth will be affected by cool water during April and June. ► Predicted the influence range on the irrigation area.