Summary
Highlights
The Mekong River, flowing through six Asian countries, is a vital shared water resource. Upstream activities like dam construction for hydropower and irrigation can significantly impact downstream regions. Visualizations and hydrologic data are crucial for understanding these cumulative effects and making informed decisions about regional development and sustainability.
Established in 1995, the Mekong River Commission (MRC) uses hydrology models to forecast changes from proposed development projects. The U.S. Department of State, USGS, and university partners are developing visualization tools to help policymakers and planners address complex river issues.
Mekong's floodwaters are essential for food security in Southeast Asia. The annual expansion and contraction of the Tonle Sap Lake, due to the Mekong's seasonal flow reversal, supports one of the world's most abundant inland fisheries.
While dams offer benefits, they can alter natural flow regimes and disrupt fish migration. The cumulative effect of numerous dams can be substantial, impacting sediment flow and the unique biodiversity of the Mekong, especially migratory fish species.
Forecast Mekong, in partnership with the MRC, is developing advanced computer applications and visualizations. These tools aim to enhance understanding of complex river issues and facilitate coordinated, sustainable water resource development across the Mekong Basin, benefiting people, fish, and wildlife.