Effect of Water Withdrawal on the Appearance and Sound Level of Waterfalls

For rivers or streams with waterfalls, water withdrawal for multiple uses can lead to potential conflicts of interest. The question arises what extent impairs the appearance and acoustics waterfalls. A data set was analyzed 15 waterfalls different morphological types in Switzerland, Austria, Norway. It comprises discharge measurements as well photo imaging sound level measurements. variations waterfall decreased after reaching a threshold value all investigated types. low discharges, visible changes were more significant compared higher discharges. Acoustics less pronounced than visual changes. be calculated novel assessment equation using normalized discharge. Based on an impact intensity, which is function nonmonetary value, selected residual evaluated. In addition, software tool developed enable sensitivity analysis required maintain certain appearance.