The Colorado River flows from the Colorado Rockies to the Gulf of California. The primary source of Colorado River water is melting Rocky Mountain snowpack. Once the river descends from the Rockies, it flows through a landscape that is dominated by desert. Colorado River water carries a high load of sediment.
(a) Multiple dams have been erected along the Colorado River. Identify TWO benefits other than agriculture and recreation that people derive from that system of dams.
(b) Discuss TWO potential environmental consequences of damming a major river.
(c) Competition for access to Colorado River water has increased dramatically due to increased population size and intensive agricultural use. Describe TWO conservation strategies for reducing agricultural water consumption.
(d) Identify TWO possible environmental consequences of climate change on the hydrology of the Colorado River system.
(e) In addition to impacts on the Colorado River system, climate change is impacting the hydrology of coastal
ecosystems. Identify and describe TWO possible consequences of climate change on coastal ecosystems.