Wow, I'm so glad the heads of Disney Theatrical Group (Thomas Schumacher and Peter Schneider at the time) didn't go with that idea. However, the idea was somewhat used earlier in the short film accompanied with 
Circle of Life: An Environmental Fable where Timon and Pumbaa create their oasis by blocking the river water with a dam. Also, Simba went and fought in the Coliseum in an episode titled "Rome Alone" from the 
Timon & Pumbaa series. Perhaps, the idea can be used for 
The Lion Guard  since the show is focused on environmentalism and conservation.
 
 