An analysis of the scientific connotation and construction path of ecological dams

WANG Jianhua; ZHANG Yunchang; HU Peng

doi:10.3969/j.issn.1000-1123.2025.20.004

Abstract：For a long time,the construction of dams has involved contradictions and trade-offs between socioeconomic benefits and ecological impacts,which has triggered discussions and debates in related fields.In the new historical period,guided by Xi Jinping's thought on ecological civilization,the Ministry of Water Resources has proposed the construction of"ecological dams"as a strategic response and innovative practice to this fundamental issue.Although many studies and practices have been carried out on the ecological and environmental effects of dams and corresponding mitigation measures,comprehensive and systematic analyses of the scientific connotation of ecological dams are still limited,and specific construction pathways remain unclear.From the two aspects of controllable ecological impacts and the realization of ecological benefits,the basic concept and scientific connotation of ecological dams are proposed.Based on the whole life cycle of dams,including planning,design,construction,impoundment,and operation and maintenance,the key points of ecological dam construction are analyzed,including that planning and design should minimize ecological risks,ecological impacts during construction and impoundment should be controllable,and operation and management should maintain the ecological health of both reservoirs and downstream rivers.Furthermore,the establishment of monitoring and evaluation systems and technical standards is suggested as a pathway to promote the construction of ecological dams at the present stage.