Sedimentation is one of the key technical problems present throughout feasibility demonstration, design, construction, and operation of the Three Gorges Project. Since the Three Gorges Reservoir began impoundment operation in 2003, important progress has been made in sedimentation and regulation technologies through systematic research and practices. This paper reveals the asynchronous propagation pattern of flood and sediment peak inflows, sediment movement in the backwater area during drawdown period, sediment flocculation, and sediment deposition that compromises the flood control reservoir storage, and puts forward new sediment regulation techniques, including sediment peak discharge regulation during flood season, siltation reduction in the backwater area during drawdown period, dynamic adjustment of the reservoir level during flood season, and joint sediment regulation in cascade reservoirs. A real-time monitoring, forecasting and dynamic regulation platform for water and sediment inflow in the Three Gorges Reservoir was developed; a new mode of dynamic sediment regulation called “regulating sediment for greater benefits” is proposed, which addresses the constraints of sedimentation on the optimal operation of Three Gorges Reservoir. By enabling more flexible operation, this mode improves the process and pattern of sedimentation, ensures the safety of reservoir operation, and significantly augments the comprehensive benefits of the Three Gorges Reservoir.

The paper thoroughly examines the Mississippi River basin's watershed management, identifies challenges, proposes a vision, and recommends strategies for a resilient, sustainable, and equitable future. It also emphasizes innovation and outlines critical research needs.

A water use framework that covers four levels of water management infrastructure: the water source, bulk conveyance system, the irrigation scheme, and the irrigation farm can be used to improve irrigation efficiency. The water balance approach can be applied at any level, within defined boundaries, or across all levels to assess performance within the whole Water Management Area.