Dam Removal: Improving Fish Passage, Removing Hazards, and Catalyzing Community Revitalization

ABSTRACT ONLY - The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law appropriated over $2 billion to several federal agencies to remove barriers in rivers and streams to allow for natural fish migration, to restore ecosystems, and to improve public safety. Multiple federal agencies with various missions including dam safety, transportation, conservation, water quality and science are coordinating their activities and working with States, Tribes, associations, and communities to ensure that dam removal, culvert replacement, and other activities are beneficial to fish, and also meet other important safety and community objectives. The presentation will:• Discuss the potential public safety, economic, ecological impacts of dam removal, including how dam removal can benefit owners and play a role in revitalizing communities. • Detail the various types of funding and technical assistance available for dam removal.• Explain how interested parties, including owners and states, can find information about dam removal projects and funding, and assess whether removal is the right option for them.