Sedimentation accumulationin lakes and reservoirs has long posed a major challenge for water conservancy projectsin China. It reduces effective storage capacity, impairs water regulation functions, accelerates water eutrophication, and threatens both ecosystem health and flood control safety. Scientifically advancing ecological dredging is not only a key solution to this problem but also an opportunity to delivermultiple co-benefits.To achieve this, a careful balance must be struck among several critical factors. Efforts should avoid short-sighted and excessive dredging that may cause secondary disturbances to benthic organisms, while taking a long-term approach that integrates dredging with upstream sediment reduction strategies-such as basin-wide source control, pollution interception, and soil and water conservation.It is essential to regulate temporary sludgestorage and transportation to prevent secondary pollution. Furthermore, a full-chain technical system for “harmless treatment and resource utilization” should be establishedto enhance the efficiency and sustainability of sludge reuse.

ecological dredging of lakes and reservoirs;dredging technology;river and lake chief system