Assessing the Impacts on Natural Ecosystems of the Future Kambarata-1 Hydropower Station on the Naryn River, Kyrgyzstan : a GIS-based Approach

In the semi-arid climate of Kyrgyzstan, the rivers have a particular importance in providing water for irrigation in agriculture, and for the production of hydropower. Kyrgyzstan is in general rich in water resources. Nevertheless, there are conflicts surrounding the operation of Toktogul, one of the most important reservoirs in the region. Exploiting the hydropower potential of the currently free-flowing upper Naryn River is therefore an ongoing planning issue. Despite the obvious advantages, the planned construction of Kambarata-1 hydropower station would cause a significant alteration of the natural conditions of the Naryn. However, there are no recent studies on the ecological impact of this hydropower project. The present study contributes to filling this gap, delivering up-to-date information onthe potential impact of the reservoir construction on the natural ecosystems in the area. The results show that, due to the geomorphological characteristics of the reservoir site, it is mostly steppe ecosystems that will be affected by the reservoir construction, and only a relatively small area of floodplain forest will be destroyed. In conclusion, the ecological impacts of Kambarata-1 HPS are minimal due to the specific characteristics of the location