Dam Removals — A Discussion of Issues and Impacts

Rye, Marty E.

doi:doi:10.1061/40517(2000)344

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Proceedings / Volume 104 / Issue 40517 / RIVER RESTORATION / DAM REMOVAL: STATE OF SCIENCE AND RESTORATION OPTIONS

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Dam Removals — A Discussion of Issues and Impacts

ASCE Conf. Proc. doi:http://dx.doi.org/10.1061/40517(2000)344

Building Partnerships

Proceedings of Joint Conference on Water Resource Engineering and Water Resources Planning and Management 2000

Marty E. Rye, P.E

Short Elliott Hendrickson, Inc., 3535 Vadnais Center Drive, St. Paul, Minnesota 55110

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Abstract

As the country developed dams were constructed to provide power for local industries such as milling, forestry, and hydroelectric generation. Over time, economics changed eliminating the local manufacturing uses and often requiring alternative energy sources. Many of these dams remain long after the initial use has ceased. In addition, communities have also developed a strong identity with the dam and its reservoir. As these dams come into disrepair with age, the public has to decide whether to invest in repair or removal. This paper will briefly discuss some of the issues associated with dam removal from the local community planning perspective. Issues associated with dam removal including legal, historical, environmental, regulatory, and community planning will be briefly identified. Two case histories of recent dam removals will be discussed. Design components include removal of the dam and the construction of v‐rock weirs to allow fish and canoe passage. Water quality data was gathered during the removal process to assist in the evaluation of impacts to downstream resources. The testing results indicate that the impacts to water quality are relatively short term. Long‐term habitat benefits associated with the removal of a physical barrier will likely exceed the short‐term impacts to in‐stream water quality.