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The major impacts are associated with dams and reservoirs related to the power plants.

Reservoirs cover land which was previously in vegetation or forests,. Once underwater the plants decompose anaerobically releasing methane, a powerful greenhouse gas.

In addition the flooded land may have contained eco-systems needed for plant or animal habitats.

On the plus side - hydroelectric plants may replace coal fired plants reducing the emissions of carbon dioxide and acid gas components.

Hydroelectric power plants have a very small effect on the environment, considering the average age of an existing powerhouse in the United States is over a half century, and they release no pollutants into the air.

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