ELOHA (Ecological Limits of Hydrologic Alteration)

ELOHA (Ecological Limits of Hydrologic Alteration) is a scientific framework used to understand how changes in water flow—such as from dams, water withdrawals, or land use—affect river and stream ecosystems. It identifies specific flow patterns essential for maintaining the health of aquatic habitats and species. By assessing how much flow alteration a river can tolerate without harming its ecological functions, ELOHA helps guide sustainable water management practices that balance human needs with environmental protection. Essentially, it helps determine safe limits to ensure rivers remain healthy and resilient.