RECONNECTING NATURAL FLOWS

Discover how dam removals can renew, revitalize, and enhance ecosystem services for communities & landowners

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At the heart of our mission lies the commitment to preserve and enhance aquatic ecosystems. Our dedication to this goal aligns with dam removal initiatives, positioning us as a premier project manager or partner.

According to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ National Inventory of Dams, there are over 91,000 dams in the United States that are 62 years or older. Yet, only 3% of those dams generate hydroelectric power. These dams act as barriers to many vital environmental processes and the ecosystem services provided by our nation’s rivers while offering little in return to society. These old dams disrupt the natural flow of water, they disconnect and fragment habitat for aquatic species, and they can even have negative impacts on water quality. The ability of a river to freely transport natural nutrients and sediments downstream also plays a critical role in dealing with erosion, flooding, and habitat creation along the river’s corridor and our coastlines.

Removing obsolete dams can be an effective way to restore rivers and their ecosystem services while reconnecting aquatic habitat. Removing these older dams can also provide safety to our communities by making waterways safer for boaters, paddlers, swimmers, fishermen and women, and many more.

When a dam reaches the end of its planned lifespan or has been severely damaged, it can often be more economically feasible to remove it rather than repairing or replacing it. Due to this, full removal may be the reasonable and more attractive option for dam owners who no longer wish to generate power or if they find that maintenance costs are exceeding profits. However, the process of dam removal can be quite complex and often requires a great deal of consultation and coordination with a diverse range of stakeholders.

Available Services

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 Project Coordination
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Project Management

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Grant Writing

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Easement Holder & Stewardship

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Stakeholder Engagement

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REMOVING THE HOOSIER DAM

By working with a private landowner, nearly 5 miles of habitat for the federally endangered Cape Fear Shiner was reconnected and within 2 years of dam removal, the fish were present again upstream of the dam. 

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A RELIABLE CONSERVATION PARTNER FOR YOUR DAM REMOVAL PROJECTS

Navigating the complexities of dam removal projects requires a dedicated partner who understands the intricacies of environmental restoration, regulatory frameworks, and community engagement. Our organization works with many groups to facilitate dam removal initiatives that aim to restore rivers to their natural state. We offer comprehensive support from project inception through to completion.

Our expertise extends beyond the physical act of dam removal. We work closely with communities, local governments, and other stakeholders to ensure that each project aligns with ecological restoration principles and benefits all parties involved. Our approach is collaborative and focused on creating sustainable, long-term outcomes for rivers and their surrounding ecosystems. By choosing us as your non-profit partner, you're investing in a future where rivers flow freely, supporting biodiversity and community well-being.

We understand the importance of your commitment to environmental restoration and community engagement. Our organization is here to support your vision, offering expert guidance, resources, and a passionate team dedicated to making your dam removal project a success. Together, we can achieve remarkable transformations, restoring rivers to their natural glory and fostering healthier, more resilient ecosystems.

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Restore Healthy Rivers

Our experienced project managers work hand-in-hand with partners to remove dams and return rivers to their natural state.

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Support the Local Community

From ongoing stakeholder engagement to creative solutions for future economic opportunities, we help bring the vision of communities based on free-flowing rivers to reality.

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Establish Long-Term Value

We support with necessary functions that build value over the life of the project such as grant writing, easement holding, and stewardship

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Private Dam Owners
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Federal & State Agencies
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Environmental Consultants & Engineers
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Local Municipalities
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Environmental NGOs
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Funding Agencies & Foundations
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READY TO CONNECT WITH US?

Fill out the form to receive more information on your areas of interest and connect with our team

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