I) In 1954, the decision was made to build the world's largest rock-fill dam at Aswan in the Middle East. II) The completion of this has brought many economic rewards. III) But there are also many unavoidable environmental problems with the dam such as soil deterioration and toxic build-up. IV) Moreover, the dam is a major and essential resource for agriculture and villages in the region. V) Only the future will tell if these outweigh the advantages.