kiblerk@engr.orst.edu

Around the world, dams are built to satisfy the growing population’s demand for energy.  Although some consider hydropower a source of “clean” energy because it is associated with low carbon emissions, the environmental and social impacts created by dams are undeniable and in the past have often not been adequately considered in the decision to construct a dam.  In the US, aging dam infrastructure and a new heightened awareness of ecological impairment to rivers has prompted the trend of dam removal.  Given that some estimates put the number of dams in the US as high as 2 million, the opportunity for river restoration through dam removal is great, however, the effects of dam removal are difficult to predict due to a lack of conclusive data. 

My dissertation research encompasses queries into both the dam construction and removal process.  With respect to dam construction, my primary interests are to seek methods of enhancing the ecological and social sustainability of dams by integrating environmental flow constraints to dam operations and informing dam decision-making processes.  This field of interest has taken me to Yunnan Province in southern China to validate the Interdisciplinary Dam Assessment Model (IDAM) in two international river basins, the Nu and the Mekong.  In Oregon, my research focuses on design of robust effectiveness monitoring studies for dam removal projects, integrating work done on the Brownsville, Chiloquin, and Savage Rapids dam removals.

My interest in international water issues also extends to development of drinking water resources for those who still lack access to clean water.  I am the Project Coordinator of Oregon State University’s chapter of Engineers Without Borders and am currently managing a project that is improving access to clean water in rural El Salvador.  In my spare time I also enjoy doing yoga, spending time outdoors, and reading.