Small impoundment complexes as a possible method to increase water supply in Alabama

Abstract

At some locations in Alabama, increasing the amount of surface water is the only option for adding to available water for use by municipalities, industry, and agriculture. Because of environmental concerns, there is limited opportunity for impounding major streams. There is, however, much overland flow from rural, upland watersheds that could be captured for use. Small impoundment complexes often have been used to capture and store overland flow for use in aquaculture. These impoundment complexes fill during periods of high rainfall and do not greatly impact downstream flow. Similar systems possibly could be used as an environmentally-responsible source of water for other purposes and provide income for rural land owners.