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In-channel modifications
General features
Although in-channel modifications all serve roughly the same purpose, each different technique has its own set of preferred geological conditions and streambed characteristics, which determine the applicability and probability of success at a certain location. Design of in-channel structures and construction materials used are dictated mainly by economic considerations, since it is technically feasible to construct these structures from almost any material. Because in-channel structures are applied at widely varying scales, from small structures with a length of a couple of meters up to large dams with a length of 9 km (Oman), they are constructed and managed on all levels, from individual farmers to water authorities and governmental institutions.
A big advantage water stored in a artificial aquifer upstream of a dam is that in semi-arid regions, clean potable water is available to local inhabitants in times of drought. In-channel modifications do not interfere with land use and have minimal impact on inhabitants and on the ecosystem.