ARE US FLOODED LANDS AND RESERVOIRS MAJOR SOURCES OF GREENHOUSE GASES?
Presenter/Author: Clark Row P.O. Box 1037 Edgewood, MD 21040 (410) 538-3111 Numerous studies have shown that flooded lands in the tropics, including reservoirs, are major sources of greenhouse gases, particularly highly potent methane. International controversy has developed over whether GHG emissions from hydroelectric projects partially or completely offset emission reductions from not using fossil fuel. Artic and boreal flooded lands have lower emissions. But how significant are GHG emissions from flooded lands in the U.S? Confident estimates have not been made; the data are not available. But emission rates could affect future projects justifications. Environmental conditions of most US reservoirs and other flooded lands suggest they too generate substantial GHGs. Emissions from US flooded lands have been measured only at a few western reservoirs in dry climates and in the Great Lake, all with relatively clean inflowing water No studies exist on flooded lands in the Midwest, Northe
