Chapter 1
The river that runs backward
Chapter 2
Guardians of the water
Chapter 3
Canyons, cactus, and hidden life
Chapter 4
Taming the wild waters
YOUR GOAL
Master of The backward-flowing giant of Brazil
Ch 4 · Taming the wild waters
schopenhauer São Francisco River
Giant concrete walls, The wild river tamed, Lighting up dry lands.
schopenhauer Community efforts to restore eroded riverbanks through native tree planting.
schopenhauer Colorful graphics show the Paulo Afonso plant generating electricity next to dry riverbanks
schopenhauer Friendly animated guides stand beside a concrete canal of the São Francisco River.
Fun Fact
Drowned history: When the Sobradinho reservoir filled up, the church tower of old Remanso was the only structure left sticking out.
Glossary
dam (noun)
A barrier constructed to hold back water and raise its level. In 1948, CHESF began building major dams to harness the river at Paulo Afonso Falls.
A barrier constructed to hold back water and raise its level. In 1948, CHESF began building major dams to harness the river at Paulo Afonso Falls.
Quiz
What sustainable action are local communities taking to combat erosion along the São Francisco River?
Quiz
In what year was the Sobradinho Dam completed, creating one of the world's largest artificial lakes?
Quiz
What is a negative consequence of hydroelectric dams on the fish population of the São Francisco River?
Quiz
Which hydroelectric complex on the river was one of Brazil's earliest major power projects?
Quiz
What major ecological issue is caused by deforestation along the banks of the São Francisco River?
Quiz
Which massive reservoir on the São Francisco River flooded four historic towns in the 1970s?
Quiz
How many people are estimated to benefit from the water provided by the Transposition Project?
Quiz
What is the primary purpose of the controversial São Francisco River Transposition Project?