Water supply for domestic and industrial uses
The creation of water storage reservoirs is frequently intended for water supply, whether for domestic or industrial uses. The reservoirs associated with dams thus make it possible to supplement other water resources, whether through direct withdrawals from rivers or pumping water from aquifers. These various resources are moreover often used jointly, taking particular care not to over-exploit any one resource.
Water withdrawn from dam reservoirs receives particular attention with regard to quality, especially in chemical and biological terms. Water intakes are designed to capture good quality water. Raw water from dams is generally treated before use.
Reservoirs and their associated water networks are often interconnected in order to secure the water supply.