Aquatic Connectivity Groups

Clean, connected, resilient rivers are critical to species survival in the face of climate change and biodiversity loss – Thats why removing dams and improving passage at culverts is one of the most significant improvements we can make to river health. Across the country, state level Aquatic Connectivity groups work to share information, increase capacity, and effect on the ground change towards thriving, reconnected rivers. 

How many states have Aquatic Connectivity Groups?

As of 2024, 26 state aquatic connectivity groups have formed, with more launching across the country.

Click here to find out if your state has an active group.

Did you know?

In the Southeast aquatic species are disappearing at twice the rate of terrestrial and marine species.

Join Aquatic Connectivity practitioners in your state

Or learn more about starting one.

Upper Citico Creek Dam Removal | Photo by Erin Singer McCombs

No team yet? No Problem!

Join us in the National Dam Removal Community of Practice!

Existing Resources

Three Southeastern teams have already collaborated to complete resources including dam removal handbooks for aquatic connectivity practitioners.

Click to download
Click to download
Click to download

To support the mission of improving aquatic connectivity, the Southeastern Aquatic Resource Partnership developed and maintains the National Aquatic Barrier Inventory & Prioritization Tool, which enables prioritization of aquatic barriers for removal using the best available data.


Roadmap to 30,000 – Dam Removal Webinar by American Rivers

American Rivers has a goal to remove 30,000 dams by 2050. To make this dream a reality, we’re calling for the development of Aquatic Connectivity groups in every state, where practitioners who champion reconnected rivers can find support and resources to encourage and implement restoration and aquatic organism passage projects.