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Human activity impacts on surface processes - Leaving Cert Geography - Question 2C - 2021
Question 2C
Human activity impacts on surface processes. Examine this statement with reference to one of the following: - The impact of flood control measures on river process... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Human activity impacts on surface processes - Leaving Cert Geography - Question 2C - 2021
Step 1
The impact of flood control measures on river processes.
Answer
Flood control measures, such as the construction of dams and levees, significantly alter river processes.
Impact on River Processes:
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Alteration of Natural Flow: Dams regulate flow and reduce the frequency of flooding. This can prevent erosion of riverbanks but may lead to sediment accumulation upstream.
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Ecological Effect: The natural habitat for aquatic life is disrupted, affecting species migration and reproduction.
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Human Safety and Economic Impact: While these measures protect communities, they can also create a dependency, leading to costly maintenance and potential failures in extreme weather events.
Overall, while flood control measures offer immediate benefits in safety, they also pose long-term risks to river dynamics and ecosystems.