Abstract: To explore how to utilize or reclaim reservoir sediment as a natural resource, we present a study of the silt deposit in reservoirs focusing on its spatial distributions and main characteristics, based on the previously measured forms of sediment accumulation in typical reservoirs and considering dispersion, adsorption, transportation, and other properties of reservoir sediment. Using the concept and attributes of natural resources, we demonstrate that the sediment accumulated in reservoirs is characterized by the same attributes as those of natural resources in terms of versatility, controllability, and short supply. Effective utilization of reservoir sediment is feasible and the urgency of doing it is emphasized in this paper. Reservoir sediment can be used as a kind of natural resources if certain technical and social conditions are satisfied. Combined with practical experiences, this paper suggests several engineering approaches to reservoir sediment utilization such as to be used for construction materials, land reclamation and improvement, and flood control and regulation.