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THE ROLE OF ANTHROPOGENIC AND NATURAL FACTORS IN THE HYDROECOLOGICAL STATE OF THE UPPER DNIEPER AND WESTERN DVINA

В.А. Снытко

Abstract

The Dnieper and the Western Dvina are the largest transboundary water arteries originating in Russia. Currently, the rivers have lost the purpose of one of the main transport routes, while remaining the most important source of water supply. The ecological state of the upper reaches of these rivers within Russia also affects the territory of neighboring states. A comprehensive expedition to study the historical waterways of the Institute of the History of Natural Science and Technology of the Russian Academy of Sciences investigated the Upper Dnieper (between the cities of Smolensk and Mogilyov) and Western Dvina (between the cities of Velizh and Vitebsk). The subject of the study was the main morphometric and hydrological characteristics, hydrochemical indicators of the surface and groundwaters of the basin, as well as the existing situation with environmental management in the territory of river basins. Studies were conducted during the rafting on the river in two boats using a special portable hydrology and meteorological laboratory. Field research were conducted during the rafting on the river in two boats using a field hydrology and meteorological laboratory. The recreational potential and changes in the natural environment as a result of the economic use of river systems were also analyzed. Channels, dams, water retaining embankments, water mills, bridges and other hydraulic engineering monuments were also identified (a retrospective analysis of old and modern maps was carried out) and described (registration documents were drawn up). An analytical review of the combination of political, socio-cultural and economic factors that influenced the development of the relevant water system was carried out. Were investigated possible violations of the ecological and anthropogenic balance, developed over the centuries. Changes in the landscapes of river basins and the microclimate of the regions can be observed. The performed work allowed to unequivocally determine the studied objects as elements of a single historical-natural complex. In general, the state of the surface waters of the territory under consideration can be considered satisfactory. As a result of landscape observations, detailed descriptions of river valleys were compiled.

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DOI resolver: doi.org/10.5593/sgem2019/5.2/s20.093

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