Dam Removal Begins in West Dover to Enhance Water Quality and Wildlife Habitats
WEST DOVER, VT — The Connecticut River Conservancy (CRC) has initiated the removal of an obsolete dam on Jack’s Brook, marking a significant step in restoring the local ecosystem. Built in 1913, the six-foot-high concrete dam was originally designed to collect drinking water for nearby residents but has since fallen into decay and filled with silt and debris. The removal project, which began on Wednesday, follows four years of planning and coordination among CRC, Trout Unlimited, and state agencies.
Ron Rhodes, director of programs at CRC, was on-site as work commenced, highlighting the ecological importance of dismantling the dam. "This isn’t just a fish passage project; it significantly improves water quality," Rhodes said. He emphasized that the dam’s removal will enable lower river temperatures, critical for brook trout survival, while also facilitating better habitat connectivity for local wildlife, including black bears.
The project, funded by The Nature Conservancy of Vermont and Vermont Fish & Wildlife’s Watershed Grant program, is part of CRC’s broader effort to restore river systems. Since 2014, CRC has removed 25 small dams in Vermont and New Hampshire, enhancing habitats and reducing flood risks downstream. The total cost for the Jack’s Brook project is approximately $55,000, with funding directed to local contractors.
Rhodes noted that selecting which dams to prioritize is a collaborative effort involving various stakeholders, including local homeowners and the Fish and Wildlife Service. As the CRC works to eliminate barriers in waterways, they are also hosting a fundraising match challenge to support future projects.
For more insights and to contribute to conservation efforts, visit CRC’s donation page.
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