Opportunities for Reservoir‐Storage Reallocation

Abstract

A review of studies on reallocation of reservoir storage capacity for reservoirs in the Corps of Engineers and state of Texas has identified eight general cases of reallocation: (1) Use of water‐supply storage not under contract; (2) temporary use of storage allocated for future conservation purposes and sediment; (3) storage made available by change in conservation demand or purpose; (4) seasonal use of flood‐control space during dry seasons; (5) reallocation of flood‐control space; (6) modification of reservoir‐water‐control plan and method of regulation; (7) raising existing dams; and (8) system regulation of corps and noncorps reservoirs. While these general cases suggest a variety of opportunities for reallocation, feasibility must be evaluated for each specific site. A memorandum of understanding between the state of Kansas and the Department of the Army illustrates the different hydrologic, economic, environmental, legal, and institutional considerations required in reallocation investigations and the value and necessity of cooperation between responsible and interested parties.