River restoration progress in Portland and Chicago is example for rivers nationwide
Contact:
Amy Souers Kober, American Rivers, akober@americanrivers.org, 503-708-1145
Willie Levenson, Human Access Project, willie@humanaccessproject.com, 503-936-6920
(Portland, Oregon) – The health of rivers in our nation’s cities including Portland and Chicago is on the rebound, but clean water and public health remain at risk unless the nation strengthens clean water protections. A new “Eye on America” CBS News story with Jim Axelrod that aired Monday, October 21 explores lessons from the Willamette and Chicago Rivers.
“The genesis of why Portland can swim in the Willamette River downtown today is thanks to the toolkit of strong federal clean water protections,” says Willie Levenson, executive director of the Human Access Project.
“It’s easy for many to give up on rivers in our largest urban centers,” Levenson says. “A lot of cities are impacted by pollution levels that seem too challenging to solve, and lack of access to the river’s edge. But two of our nation’s cities, Portland and Chicago, are leading the way and writing the playbook for other cities to reclaim their urban waterways for improved river health, public health, and recreation.”
“The Willamette River is Portland’s second largest public space and natural area, and is owned by the citizens of Oregon. A swimmable river is every urban city’s untapped source of livability, and in Portland our river asset is slowly but surely being embraced. Portland was one of the very first cities internationally to successfully manage removing sewage overflow into our river. It is exciting to see other cities following Portland’s lead and to be a part of what has become an international urban swimming movement.”
More than 80 percent of people in our country live in cities, and most live within a mile of a river. Yet many urban rivers and streams are unhealthy and polluted, have been paved over, and used as dumping grounds. This means a large portion of our population lacks access to clean, natural places crucial for health and wellness. Polluted rivers don’t just impact their immediate surroundings — they impact entire ecosystems downstream.
“Portland and Chicago demonstrate that people don’t have to accept pollution, and that there is a big prize at the other end for doing the work to reclaim urban waterways for people and wildlife,” says Levenson.
“It is fantastic to see the progress on rivers like the Willamette and Chicago, and it’s so important that we keep this positive momentum going,” said Amy Souers Kober, Vice President for Communications at American Rivers. “People want safe, clean water because it’s vital for our health. But polluters are working to weaken clean water protections for rivers nationwide, and water infrastructure is aging, increasing the threat of pollution. Voters can ensure we don’t go backwards. We can use our voices at the ballot box and we can support candidates who protect water and rivers.
“Safe, clean, reliable water is a bipartisan issue because it is a basic need and a human right that connects us all. No matter who you are or where you live, each and every one of us deserves clean water and a healthy river.”
Learn more: The Best Cities are River Cities
About American Rivers
American Rivers is championing a national effort to protect and restore all rivers, from remote mountain streams to urban waterways. Healthy rivers provide people and nature with clean, abundant water and natural habitat. For 50 years, American Rivers staff, supporters, and partners have shared a common belief: Life Depends on Rivers. For more information, please visit www.AmericanRivers.org
About the Human Access Project
Human Access Project, formed in 2010, is a nonprofit organization based in Portland, Oregon. Our role in the community is catalyzing cultural change around how people feel about and interact with the Willamette River. We want the community to view the Willamette River as an asset, something to be valued and protected. We want to foster and drive a connection between the people of Portland and the river that runs through our community. More information can be found at humanaccessproject.com
Contact:
Jaime D. Sigaran (240) 593-3433
Amy Souers Kober (503) 708-1145
Washington, DC – During Climate Week, the Biden-Harris Administration announced a series of climate commitments including critical investments and projects to restore rivers, support fish passage, enhance infrastructure for Tribal Nations, and protect clean water. Building on the Investing in America Agenda and the America the Beautiful Freshwater Challenge, the Biden-Harris Administration leaves a legacy that creates a new formula for success in how our nation strengthens the economy while expanding clean energy and balancing conservation.
In response to the White House announcement, Tom Kiernan, President and CEO of American Rivers issued the following statement:
“We commend the Biden-Harris Administration for their work to restore rivers and support clean water for Americans nationwide. Too many communities are held back and harmed by pollution, unsafe dams, and outdated infrastructure. The administration’s actions for water and rivers will make our communities safer and healthier, and our entire nation stronger.
“Rivers drive local economies and are the backbone of every community across America. No matter where you live, rivers and streams play a critical role in providing clean, safe, reliable drinking water, supporting businesses, farms and ranches, and giving families access to nature.”
“As a partner of America the Beautiful Freshwater Challenge, we are proud of the commitments made today and look forward to reigniting on our efforts to turn this vision into reality. Today’s announcement complements American Rivers’ mission to protect 1 million miles by 2030 and half of all rivers in the country by 2050.”
“We are particularly grateful for the Oconaluftee River Restoration project in North Carolina, a project to remove the Ela Dam and eliminate the only physical barrier preventing the Oconaluftee River from flowing freely and reconnect 549 river miles that benefit rare and federally endangered species.”
Key Highlights:
- 10 transformational fish passage projects that bring economic prosperity and opportunity to communities across Arizona, Alaska, California, Maine, Montana, North Carolina, Ohio, Oregon, and Washington.
- 3 contracts for long-term water conservation for the Lower Colorado River Basin all with the Gila River Indian Community which will provide 73,000 acre-feet of water savings.
- A new water infrastructure investment of $9.4 million for Tribal Nations to address drought relief and receive technical projects including wetland restoration, irrigation, and groundwater monitoring.
- An additional $92 million for Bureau of Reclamation’s WaterSMART Aquatic Ecosystems Restoration Program to restore salmon and native fish in the West as well as provide increased water quality, floodplain stability and drought resiliency.
About American Rivers
American Rivers is championing a national effort to protect and restore all rivers, from remote mountain streams to urban waterways. Healthy rivers provide people and nature with clean, abundant water and natural habitat. For 50 years, American Rivers staff, supporters, and partners have shared a common belief: Life Depends on Rivers. For more information, please visit www.AmericanRivers.org
Contact:
Amy Souers Kober, 503-708-1145
Mike Sertle, 815-238-3017
American Rivers announced today that Michael Sertle is joining the organization as its new Senior Director for the Central Region. Sertle has more than two decades of experience in river conservation and floodplain restoration, with a focus on public and private lands of the Upper Mississippi and Missouri River basins.
“Rivers and the clean, safe water they provide are vital to this region. Mike has deep roots on these rivers and a long track record of success advancing solutions that revitalize river health and strengthen communities. We are thrilled to welcome him to the American Rivers team,” said Heather Taylor-Miesle, Senior Vice President for Conservation.
“I’m excited to join American Rivers and bring my experience and knowledge of river conservation to the organization,” said Sertle. “Growing up and working on these rivers has taught me to love their uniqueness and appreciate the importance of protecting and restoring these systems for people, wildlife, and future generations.”
Prior to joining American Rivers, Mike served as manager of conservation programs for the Big Rivers Initiative at Ducks Unlimited, covering Iowa, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, and Indiana, and oversaw conservation program planning, budget management, and habitat restoration.
Previous positions include regional biologist at Ducks Unlimited, where he delivered conservation programs in Michigan, Indiana, and Illinois, and researcher at the USGS Northern Prairie Wildlife Research Center where he studied endangered wildlife, waterfowl migration, and wetland carbon sequestration.
Originally from the Driftless area of northwestern Illinois, Mike spent most of his life growing up on the Mississippi River and its tributaries.He received a B.S. from Western Illinois University in zoology and an M.S. from Southern Illinois University – Carbondale in wetland ecology.
Mike is based in the St. Louis area and begins at American Rivers on September 9.
About American Rivers
American Rivers is championing a national effort to protect and restore all rivers, from remote mountain streams to urban waterways. Healthy rivers provide people and nature with clean, abundant water and natural habitat. For 50 years, American Rivers staff, supporters, and partners have shared a common belief: Life Depends on Rivers. For more information, please visit www.AmericanRivers.org
Tribal and conservation advocates celebrate as river is returned to historic channel; restoration activities to continue for several more years
CONTACT
Ren Brownell, ren@klamathrenewal.org, KRRC PIO, 530-598-8255
Craig Tucker, craig@suitsandsigns.com, Consultant for the Karuk Tribe 916-207-8294
Matt Mais, mmais@yuroktribe.nsn.us, PR Director for the Yurok Tribe 707-954-0976
Klamath River Renewal Corporation • Karuk Tribe • Yurok Tribe • American Rivers • American Whitewater • California Trout • Environmental Protection Information Center • Institute for Fisheries Resources • International Rivers • Native Fish Society • Northern California Council, Fly Fishers International • Pacific Coast Federation of Fishermen’s Associations • Ridges to Riffles Indigenous Conservation Group • Salmon River Restoration Council • Save California Salmon • Sustainable Northwest Trout Unlimited
Hornbrook, Calif. – Today, the last coffer dams were broken at the former Iron Gate and Copco No. 1 Dam sites, returning the Klamath river to its natural path and marking an end to a significant construction phase in the largest salmon restoration project in U.S. history. The project is a major step toward healing a critical watershed for West Coast salmon production and is widely recognized as a Tribal justice initiative that will help revitalize the culture and economies of several Tribal Nations whose homelands are in the Klamath Basin.
“I am excited to be in the restoration phase of the Klamath River. Restoring hundreds of miles of spawning grounds and improving water quality will help support the return of our salmon, a healthy, sustainable food source for several Tribal Nations. This is truly a great day for the Karuk and all the Native People of the Klamath Basin,” said Russell ‘Buster’ Attebery, Chairman of the Karuk Tribe.
Another wall fell today. The dams that have divided the basin are now gone and the river is free. Our sacred duty to our children, our ancestors, and for ourselves, is to take care of the river, and today’s events represent a fulfillment of that obligation,” said Yurok Tribe Vice Chairman Frankie Myers.
Four dams have been under deconstruction on the Klamath river, which traverses the California-Oregon border, over the past year. Benefits of dam removal include reintroducing salmon to more than 400 miles of historical habitat, eliminating reservoirs that hosted massive blooms of toxic blue green algae each summer, and eliminating conditions that enabled fish diseases to thrive. All of these benefits are expected to support the rebound of what was once the third largest salmon fishery in the lower 48 states.
“While there is still work to be done,today we are celebrating,” said Mark Bransom, CEO of the Klamath River Renewal Corporation, the non-profit entity tasked with the removal of the dams. “Watching the Klamath River return to its historic path in the reservoirs and now through the dam sites has been incredible, and I feel honored to take this project over the finish line for our Tribal partners, and river communities.”
Although the construction phase of dam removal is expected to be completed by the end of September (some remaining riverside infrastructure is still being deconstructed), restoration of the land along the river and in key tributaries that were previously covered by the reservoirs will continue for several years. Resource Environmental Solutions (RES), the company contracted to oversee the restoration, is committed to remaining active in the basin until vegetation is successfully established and the newly restored habitat is on a positive ecological trajectory.
Background
Discussions about the potential for Klamath River dam removal began in earnest more than 20 years ago, shortly after an estimated 70,000 adult salmon died in the lower river before they could spawn. The 2002 fish kill was a traumatic event for Klamath River Tribal communities. In response, Tribal members started a grassroots campaign with the goal of removing the lower four Klamath River dams as a requisite step toward restoring the watershed to health. The Bring the Salmon Home campaign called on the company that previously owned the dams, PacifiCorp, to surrender the lower four Klamath River dams for the purpose of removal.
After years of protests, lawsuits, and direct action, PacifiCorp, the States of California and Oregon, Tribal governments, conservation groups, commercial and recreational fishing organizations, and local governments reached a settlement agreement in 2016 to remove the dams. It took additional negotiations to secure final approval from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) for the dam removal and restoration to proceed. FERC approved the license surrender order in November 2022, allowing the transfer of the hydropower project to the Klamath River Renewal Corporation so they could proceed with the removal.
The smallest of the four dams, Copco No. 2, was removed in 2023. The reservoirs behind the three remaining dams were drained in January of this year, carefully timed to minimize impacts on fish runs. The river has been returned to its historic path at each dam site. As of today, the Klamath River flows freely and will allow fish passage from the mouth of the river in California up to where it originates below Lake Euwana, just below Upper Klamath Lake in Oregon. Dam removal also opens access to hundreds of miles of high-quality tributaries for migrating salmon, steelhead, and other aquatic species.
More information about this historic dam removal and larger watershed-wide restoration effort is available at reconnectklamath.org and klamathrenewal.org
Quotes from Supporting Organizations
“The Klamath River was once the third largest salmon producing river in the continental U.S., and restoring its once-abundant salmon runs has been a priority for the coastal salmon fishing families that PCFFA represents for at least four decades. With the freeing of the river for salmon to once again fully occupy it, the valuable salmon runs from the Klamath are expected to more than double in numbers – which means more salmon fishing jobs and stronger coastal salmon fishing-dependent communities as an enduring legacy of these efforts. I am proud to have been a major part of making this happen.”
-Glen Spain, NW Regional Director, Pacific Coast Federation ofFishermen’s Associations (PCFFA)
“Because of Klamath River dam removal, salmon can return to the Upper Klamath Basin in Oregon for the first time in over 100 years. This will help restore salmon runs for Tribes up and down the river, including the Klamath Tribes in Oregon. Sustainable Northwest is proud to have played a role in this Tribally-led project to restore salmon runs and healthy river flows, and support Tribal justice.”
-Lee Rahr, Vice President of Programs, Sustainable Northwest
“Big things happen when committed people decide that failure is not an option. So today, on behalf of Klamath River salmon and steelhead and the communities that cannot live without them, we celebrate all the talented, relentless people who wouldn’t take no for an answer – the people who lit the fire, the people who worked behind the scenes, the public servants who did the right thing – all of the people who got it done when everyone said it wasn’t possible.”
-Brian J. Johnson, Senior Policy Advisor, Western Water and Climate, Trout Unlimited
“I’m proud that CalTrout has been at the table pushing for this crucial and pivotal river restoration project to transpire, and it is so satisfying to share the experience with partners from fellow conservation organizations, government agencies, and most especially our Indigenous and tribal partners,” said Curtis Knight, Executive Director of California Trout. “Dam removal on the Klamath River is special not just because of its magnitude and impact, but because of all the people that came together to make this happen. We started this journey 24 years ago sitting at a negotiation table. Together this amazing community of committed people are pulling off the largest dam removal and restoration project in U.S. history.”
-Curtis Knight, Executive Director, California Trout
”When we remove a dam, we don’t just restore a river, we heal communities. This tremendous milestone is thanks to the ongoing leadership of the river’s Tribes and grassroots advocates, and holds important lessons for other rivers nationwide. American Rivers named the Klamath as the River of the Year for 2024 because it proves that we can overcome seemingly insurmountable challenges and make incredible progress by working together. American Rivers is honored to continue our work advancing restoration and partnering with communities across the watershed.”
-Dr. Ann Willis, California Regional Director, American Rivers
“I am proud to say that the fly fishing community has been a part of this process for nearly 23 years, and that we joined many partners at the negotiating table who were focused on restoring the Klamath to its historical greatness. The river is now running free & in its historical channel. The fishery & river will now have a chance to begin the process of recovery. We are happy for the river, the fish, our negotiating partners, and the Tribal communities – The river people – whose lives are forever changed for the better. Never give up was our motto. It has worked.”
-Dr. Mark Rockwell, VP Conservation, Northern California Council, Fly Fishers International
“The Indigenous Peoples and Tribal Nations of the Klamath River have fought long and hard for the Klamath River to flow freely and begin recovering from colonization. Today’s final breach of the last dam on the river marks the beginning of a new era on the Klamath River during which Indigenous cultures can thrive alongside the many species and communities that are dependent upon the resilience of the Klamath River. We would not have reached this movement without the remarkable commitments of the Klamath Basin Indigenous Peoples and Tribal Nations and their many partners. We celebrate as a united Klamath Basin.”
-Amy Bowers Cordalis, Executive Director, Ridges to Riffles Indigenous Conservation Group
”Local families, especially native families on the Klamath River, fought for generations for this day. Many of us, and our kids, grew up in the movements for fishing rights and dam removal and many local people’s childhood memories include the toxic algae and fish kills. Now our children, grandchildren, and schools are planting seeds and engaging in dam removal and restoration. Youth are learning about the local successful movement for the environment and civil rights and how powerful they can be, and have hope for the future. We are so grateful we are able to celebrate this moment with our families, and that in the near future our youth will be able to enjoy salmon and a clean river instead of having to fight so hard.”
-Regina Chichizola, Save California Salmon
”Today marks a significant milestone in our commitment to restoring the health of the Klamath River ecosystem. The removal of the Klamath dams not only restores the natural flow of the river but also paves the way for the resurgence of the nearly extinct Klamath spring Chinook. Historically the largest run in the basin, the Klamath dams had blocked 90% of their habitat. Thanks to decades of advocacy protecting the Klamath’s last wild spring Chinook genetics, these heirs to the upper basin can finally return home.”
-Amber Jamieson, water advocacy director for Environmental Protection Information Center
“International Rivers stands in solidarity with the Klamath River Tribal communities who have championed the restoration of their ancestral waters and ways of life. This historic dam removal, improving access to over 400 miles of habitat, represents a shared victory for all who recognize nature as a living ecosystem to be cherished and protected. As the world watches the Klamath flow freely for the first time in over a century, we are witnessing a powerful example of what’s possible when we prioritize ecological integrity and respect Indigenous stewardship. This victory ripples far beyond the Klamath, offering hope and inspiration for river defenders worldwide.”
-Isabella Winkler and Josh Klemm, Co-Directors, International Rivers
“The removal of the Klamath River dams marks a historic moment not only for the river and the wild, native fish that rely on it, but also for the countless individuals, Tribes, community members, and organizations who have worked tirelessly for this celebrated outcome. This achievement is a testament to the power of collaboration and perseverance, as together we have made a lasting impact on the future of wild fish that will benefit generations to come. Native Fish Society is honored to join in celebrating of this incredible journey, and to continue our mission of working towards wild abundance throughout the Pacific Northwest.”
– Mark Sherwood, Executive Direct, Native Fish Society
Contact: Amy Souers Kober, 503-708-1145
Washington, DC – Today, the United States Senate and Energy and Natural Resources Committee reported the S. 4753, the Energy Permitting Reform Act of 2024 out of committee on a vote of 15 to 4. This bill contains provisions to accelerate permitting for energy upgrades and grid expansion to increase reliability of and reduce emissions from our electric grid. If left unchecked and unchanged, this bill could create disparate imbalances for rivers and people.
The following is a statement from Tom Kiernan, President and CEO, of American Rivers:
“American Rivers is deeply committed to balancing the protection of rivers and waterways with the safety and responsibility of meeting the nation’s growing energy needs.
We applaud Chairman Manchin’s commitment to get the language right on hydropower today and pledge to work with the committee and Congress to find common ground to include much needed hydropower reforms to build a more efficient licensing process under FERC. American Rivers will continue our advocacy to ensure S. 1521, the Community and Hydropower Improvement Act is passed. This bipartisan bill strengthens permitting by FERC, increases tribal engagement and oversight, and promotes healthy habitats and federal coordination in decision making.
We call on Congress to support S. 1521 to advance common sense hydropower solutions. Congress has a unique opportunity to find common ground on the role hydropower plays in addressing climate change while also restoring free-flowing rivers.”
Washington – American Rivers joined more than 500 organizations, businesses, growers, irrigators, and landowners representing a diverse range of Farm Bill stakeholders from across the country in submitting a letter urging Congress to pass a Farm Bill before the end of the year. The Farm Bill expires in September, which was extended by Congress in November 2023 to September 30, 2024, and will likely need another extension.
American Farm Bureau Federation, National Corn Growers Association, The Nature Conservancy, American Soybean Association, Ducks Unlimited, and American Rivers are among the than 500 organizations calling for the passage of a new Farm Bill.
“We’re proud to be part of this dynamic Farm Bill coalition. The Farm Bill is America’s largest investment in voluntary, incentive-based river conservation, restoration, and management of our lands and waters. We have to make meaningful progress now more than ever; the clock is ticking” said Tom Kiernan, President and CEO.
“Farmers can be vital partners in clean water and healthy rivers. We need Congress to act quickly to enhance key programs like the Emergency Watershed Programs so farmers can better deploy natural infrastructure solutions that can greatly reduce their overall flood risk, and at the same time improve river health.”
The letter was sent to House and Senate leadership and outlines the consequences of failing to pass a Farm Bill this year. Read the full letter here.
About American Rivers:
American Rivers is championing a national effort to protect and restore all rivers, from remote mountain streams to urban waterways. Healthy rivers provide people and nature with clean, abundant water and natural habitat. For 50 years, American Rivers staff, supporters, and partners have shared a common belief: Life Depends on Rivers℠. Learn more at www.americanrivers.org
Contact: Amy Souers Kober, 503-708-1145
American Rivers announced today that Leda Huta is joining the organization as its new Vice President, Government Relations. Huta is an accomplished coalition builder and conservation advocate, with more than two decades of expertise in water and wildlife policy.
“Leda has been working to address the growing biodiversity crisis and water health for more than 20 years. Her experience and bipartisan know-how will take American Rivers’ policy shop to the next level as we work to protect more than 1 million miles of rivers and remove outdated dams to improve river health and public safety. I welcome Leda’s leadership and look forward to working with her,” said Heather Taylor-Miesle, Senior Vice President for Conservation.
Most recently, Huta was executive director of Waterkeepers Chesapeake, where she forged strategy to secure the collective impact of 16 Waterkeepers of the Chesapeake Bay. Before that she served as executive director of the Endangered Species Coalition for 17 years where she directed the organizational strategy for policy and led innovative campaigns to engage communities and protect wildlife.
“Rivers are essential to all life, but the threats facing our rivers, from pollution to dams to climate change, are significant,” Huta said. “Fortunately, rivers provide excellent opportunities to bring communities together around solutions we need for clean water, wildlife, and public health and safety. I am thrilled to work with American Rivers and partners to build strong coalitions and champions for the rivers that sustain us all.”
Huta will start at American Rivers on August 5, based in the organization’s Washington, DC headquarters.
About American Rivers
American Rivers is championing a national effort to protect and restore all rivers, from remote mountain streams to urban waterways. Healthy rivers provide people and nature with clean, abundant water and natural habitat. For 50 years, American Rivers staff, supporters, and partners have shared a common belief: Life Depends on Rivers. For more information, please visit www.AmericanRivers.org
June 24, 2024
Contact: Amy Souers Kober, 503-708-1145
The Rapidan Dam on the Blue Earth River near Mankato, Minnesota is failing, putting downstream communities at risk. Recent rainfall and high water levels in the river undermined the integrity of the dam, which was already in a state of disrepair.
Brian Graber, senior director for river restoration at American Rivers, made the following statement:
“This is a serious risk for public safety that should have been avoided. Aging, unsafe dams are ticking time bombs. While the immediate focus must be on ensuring nearby residents are safe, we must do a better job at the state and federal level to improve the safety of dams nationwide.”
“This is not an isolated incident. Climate change is bringing more severe flooding, at a time when our nation’s infrastructure is crumbling. There are tens of thousands of obsolete, unsafe dams across the country. Hundreds of dams have breached or failed in recent years because of heavy rainfall and flooding, putting communities at risk.”
“The fact that Blue Earth County was aware of the dam’s poor condition underscores the need for more support and funding to expedite the process to remove or repair hazardous dams.”
“We must invest in our rivers to protect public health and safety. This means shoring up necessary oversight and safety regulations, while also increasing funding for water infrastructure, including the removal of outdated dams. The most cost-effective and permanent way to deal with obsolete, unsafe dams is to remove them.”
“It is more important than ever to reauthorize and strengthen the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s National Dam Safety Program. The National Dam Safety Program provides grants to State Dam Safety Agencies to reduce the public safety risks associated with dams. FEMA received an additional $725 million through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Legislation for dam safety, including programs like FEMA’s High Hazard Potential Dam Rehabilitation Grant Program, which can fund the removal or repair of eligible dams.”
About American Rivers
American Rivers is championing a national effort to protect and restore all rivers, from remote mountain streams to urban waterways. Healthy rivers provide people and nature with clean, abundant water and natural habitat. For 50 years, American Rivers staff, supporters, and partners have shared a common belief: Life Depends on Rivers. AmericanRivers.org
American Rivers receives $1.78 million for river restoration on Maryland’s Patapsco River
Contact: Amy Souers Kober, 503-708-1145
The effort to restore rivers got an important boost this week with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) announcing $240 million in recommended grants, supporting 46 projects to remove outdated dams and other river barriers in 13 states.
American Rivers has been recommended to receive $1.78 million to further restoration efforts on Maryland’s Patapsco River, a multi-dam removal effort that has been ongoing for more than a decade (see details below).
To learn more about dam removal or join our National Dam Removal Community of Practice, please visit AmericanRivers.org/DamRemovalCOP
Serena McClain, senior director for river restoration at American Rivers, made the following statement:
“This federal funding is fueling great momentum for healthy rivers across the country. We applaud the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration for their commitment to advancing locally-driven, community-supported restoration efforts.”
“Our rivers face serious threats, but the good news is that rivers can heal. There are hundreds of thousands of dams in the U.S. and up to 85 percent of dams in our country are unnecessary, harmful, and even dangerous. That is why American Rivers is prioritizing removing 400 dams by 2027 and kickstarting the removal of 30,000 dams by 2050. Removing a dam is the single most impactful way to secure a river’s future health. American Rivers is also working to improve operations of dams that should remain in place.”
Project details:
Daniels Dam Removal, Patapsco River, MD ($1,778,466): This project will lay the groundwork to complete the reconnection of more than 65 miles of upstream spawning habitat for river herring (blueback and alewife) and shad (American and hickory), as well as more than 183 miles of habitat for American eel, and address years of habitat fragmentation resulting from industrialization of the Patapsco River system. The Patapsco River flows into the Chesapeake Bay near Baltimore and has historically supported abundant stocks of river herring, shad, and American eel. The project builds on three previous dam removals on the Patapsco— Union Dam (2010), Simkins Dam (2011), and Bloede Dam (2018). This project will build the plans to restore the natural form and function of the Patapsco through the removal of Daniels Dam, so that fish and wildlife can seek refuge from the effects of climate change. As the last barrier in the system, the removal of the Daniels Dam is the last, best action we can take to ensure continued survival of shad and river herring in the Patapsco watershed. The project has the added benefit of removing a public safety hazard in Patapsco Valley State Park, the most popular state park in Maryland (2.65 million visitors annually). Through this project, American Rivers will forge new relationships and connections with diverse organizations, tribes, and others who utilize rivers in the Chesapeake region in order to reach our goal of removing 4,500 dams in the Mid-Atlantic by 2050.
More information on other projects funded by NOAA under this funding opportunity can be found here.
About American Rivers
American Rivers is championing a national effort to protect and restore all rivers, from remote mountain streams to urban waterways. Healthy rivers provide people and nature with clean, abundant water and natural habitat. For 50 years, American Rivers staff, supporters, and partners have shared a common belief: Life Depends on Rivers. AmericanRivers.org
American Rivers applauds latest legislative updates from House and Senate
May 3, 2024
Washington – This week, the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry and the House Committee on Agriculture released summaries and outlines of their respective farm bills. Both bills highlight reform opportunities containing more than 100 bipartisan provisions that would enhance locally led, incentive-based, voluntary conservation programs across the country.
A public draft of the House legislation is expected before the House Ag Committee’s markup of the new farm bill, scheduled for May 23rd. The Senate path is more uncertain, but progress is being made.
The following is a statement from Tom Kiernan, President and CEO of American Rivers:
“We welcome this exciting development and are eager to see both legislative outlines on the table. American Rivers applauds the House and Senate Agriculture committees’ step forward to enact a Farm Bill this year. The urgency is great, as communities depend on clean water and healthy rivers, while farmers are experiencing higher input costs to stay in business and are looking for new conservation tools. These timely proposals recognize that farmers on the frontlines need greater access to voluntary conservation programs, improved data and research capabilities, and technical assistance to improve river health.
While we wait for legislative text and Congressional Budget Office scores, we are excited about this step forward. We urge the committees to move forward with markups this month and encourage everyone to bring their best ideas forward. American Rivers remains ready to work with Congress in both chambers and across the aisle to create a pathway for bipartisan solutions in a final package that will make a meaningful difference for rivers and people.”
American Rivers receives $2,700,000 for river restoration
April 24, 2024
Contact: Amy Souers Kober, 503-708-1145
The effort to restore rivers got an important boost this week with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announcing $70 million in grants, supporting 43 projects to remove outdated dams and other river barriers in 29 states.
American Rivers is receiving more than $2,700,000 of this funding to lead restoration efforts on North Carolina’s Deep River, West Virginia’s West Fork River, as well as 10 dam removal projects across Pennsylvania (see details below).
To learn more about dam removal or join our National Dam Removal Community of Practice, please visit AmericanRivers.org/DamRemovalCOP
Brian Graber, senior director for river restoration at American Rivers, made the following statement:
“This federal funding is fueling great momentum for healthy rivers across the country. We applaud the Fish and Wildlife Service and the Interagency Fish Passage Task Force for their commitment to advancing locally-driven, community-supported restoration efforts.”
“Our rivers face serious threats, but the good news is that rivers can heal. There are hundreds of thousands of dams in the U.S. and up to 85 percent of dams in our country are unnecessary, harmful, and even dangerous. That is why American Rivers is prioritizing removing 400 dams by 2027 and kickstarting the removal of 30,000 dams by 2050. Removing a dam is the single most impactful way to secure a river’s future health. American Rivers is also working to improve operations of dams that should remain in place.”
Project details:
Lockville Dam Removal, Deep River, NC ($500,000): This project will reconnect more than 45 miles of the Deep River through the removal of the Lockville Dam, a former hydropower dam, which no longer produces power and is the most downstream barrier on the Deep River in the Cape Fear River Basin. The Lockville Dam blocks critical habitat for the federally endangered Cape Fear shiner and limits its migration to suitable habitat found downstream. The dam breached in 2023 and is in disrepair. Its removal will reestablish this critical habitat for the Cape Fear shiner, the Atlantic pigtoe mussel, and other species. In addition, the dam removal will increase climate resiliency, improve water quality, and create safe recreational opportunities. This project is part of a collaborative restoration on the Deep River that will reconnect more than 100 miles of the Deep River and has been supported by NOAA and NFWF.
Hartland Dam Removal, West Fork River, WV ($1,000,000): This project will reconnect 181 miles of habitat on the West Fork River via removal of the Hartland Dam, which builds on the 2016 removals of three upstream dams on the West Fork River. Hartland Dam is an aging component of Clarksburg’s drinking water supply intake system and a new river-friendly water intake must be operational before dam removal can be accomplished. This project will complete all planning, design, and permitting for both the dam removal and the new water intake replacement. Removal will restore habitat for three federally listed freshwater mussels (snuffbox, clubshell, and round hickorynut), as well as additional species of critical mussels and fish that are vital to the river’s web of life.
10 dam removals in Pennsylvania ($1,203,550): This effort covers a suite of 10 dam removals on Pennsylvania streams important for brook trout habitat. These dam removals will reconnect 190 miles of spawning, rearing, and foraging habitat for federally endangered species, imperiled species, and Species of Greatest Conservation Needs in the Ohio and Susquehanna River basins. Leveraging partner and government funds, these projects will also provide increased public safety, improved recreation access and recreational angling opportunities, and reduced flood risk.
About American Rivers
American Rivers is championing a national effort to protect and restore all rivers, from remote mountain streams to urban waterways. Healthy rivers provide people and nature with clean, abundant water and natural habitat. For 50 years, American Rivers staff, supporters, and partners have shared a common belief: Life Depends on Rivers. AmericanRivers.org
Contact: Amy Souers Kober, 503-708-1145
American Rivers today hailed President Biden for the America the Beautiful Freshwater Challenge, which sets bold new national goals for the protection of freshwater resources. These goals include protecting and restoring 8 million acres of wetlands and 100,000 miles of rivers by 2030.
The White House announcement comes one week after American Rivers released its annual America’s Most Endangered Rivers® report, spotlighting threats to clean water nationwide. The report points to a recent Supreme Court ruling that drastically narrowed federal Clean Water Act protections, leaving millions of miles of streams and wetlands vulnerable to pollution.
Tom Kiernan, President and CEO of American Rivers, made the following statement:
“This is a milestone moment. These are the boldest ever goals for clean water and rivers put forth by an administration. With this Freshwater Challenge, which builds on bi-partisan conservation commitments to preserve freshwater including the George H.W. Bush administration’s goal of ‘no net loss’ of wetlands, the Biden administration is underscoring the importance of clean water and rivers to our health, safety, economy, and strength in the face of climate change.”
“The Biden administration’s goals are a significant step toward achieving the protections our rivers need. There are more than 3 million miles of rivers in the U.S. and American Rivers has set the goal of protecting at least 1 million miles and removing 30,000 outdated dams by 2050.”
“Clean water is a bipartisan issue that should unite us, not divide us. Whether you’re a parent, a business owner, a hunter or fisherman, a farmer or rancher, clean water is our most fundamental need. Rivers and clean water can bring our communities together around lasting solutions with benefits for all.”
“We applaud the administration for its vision and its emphasis on collaboration and partnership. American Rivers is committed to working with the administration and galvanizing the nationwide river movement to achieve the action our rivers and communities need.”