Abstract: Hydropower exploitation in the upper Yangtze River is one of  China’s strategic measures to tackle energy shortage and ecoenvironmental degradation when the economy is growing steadily and rapidly. Yet it would cause ecodamage and environmental pollution while generating enormous economic benefits. It is, therefore, of the most priority to coordinate between hydropower exploitation and eco-environment protection. The authors analyzed  the status quo and tendency of hydropower exploitation, pointed out the ecological  restrictions, and discussed the influence of exploitation on the environment. Preliminary coordination measures were provided in terms of basin management, laws and regulations, and engineering technology. The research results will offer theoretical and technological supports for hydropower exploitation in the upper reaches of the Yangtze River.

Key words: the upper Yangtze River, hydropower exploitation, ecological restrictions, coordination measure