Glaciated Landscapes: Human Activity In A Glacial Environment Case Study - Grande Dixence Dam, Switzerland Flashcards
1
Q
Where is the Grande Dixence Dam located?
A
At the head of the Val des Dix valley.
2
Q
When was the Grande Dixence Dam built and how much did it cost?
A
Between 1951 and 1965, costing 1.9 billion US dollars.
3
Q
How many glaciers feed the Grande Dixence Dam?
A
Meltwater comes seasonally from 35 glaciers.
4
Q
How much power does the Grande Dixence Dam generate?
A
2000 GWh, which is enough to power 400,000 homes.
5
Q
How much Swiss electricity comes from hydroelectric power stations?
A
Over half.
6
Q
How much impact does the Grande Dixence Dam have on the surrounding glacial environment?
A
Very little, however the changes in water flow can cause flooding, the rivers to dry up or over-erosion of the river beds.