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.