Measures to Balance Hydropower Development and Ecological Status Protection: A Case Study in the Lancang River

The Lancang River upstream basin has a rich aquatic ecological environment and contains relatively fragile freshwater fish species. The planned multi-dam construction program in the Lancang River upstream basin may affect the ecological status of these species. Thus, it is necessary to survey the current environmental and ecological status of this water body. Therefore, we analyzed the planned dam construction effects along the river and investigated the hydroecological status and ecological status of fish in the Lancang River upstream basin as well as the effects of the planned hydropower construction development on the hydroecological status and ecological status of fish. This research also provides a comprehensive framework of measures to safeguard the hydroecological status of the Lancang River upstream basin in balance with the hydropower development. Assessments of water quality and riverbed substrates were performed. The fish composition, distribution, spawning sites, and reproductive ability were evaluated. We also recommend appropriate and effective ecological protection measures. With this analysis and a recommended framework of countermeasures, dam construction, which ensures both ecological protection as well as hydropower production, is possible.