A project sponsored by the Habitat Stewardship Program for Species at Risk, 2001 - 2003 (Environment Canada - Atlantic Region)

Dealing with Various Issues

Removing abandoned dams implies that many interrelated concerns and priorities need to be taken into consideration. Issues, such as the health of the river, the fish and wildlife it holds, the impact on people who live nearby, the impact on recreational activities, sediment accumulation, public safety and sources of financing, are to be carefully considered before taking the decision to proceed with the removal. Solving all of the issues relevant to dam removal or reaching consensus with all stakeholders often means that compromises will have to be made in terms of according more priority to certain issues over others.

The issues relevant to the removal of small abandoned dams can be grouped in four main categories:

• Environmental issues generally relate to the natural resources of the area.

• Economic issues generally relate to comparing the overall costs and benefits associated with either repairing abandoned dams to make them safe or else removing them.

• Engineering issues relate both to the physical structure of the dam and the natural environment that is affected by its presence.

• Societal issues take into consideration the place that the dam holds in the community.

For more detailed information on dealing with dam removal issues, please consult our guide, "Reclaiming Free Flow - An Information Guide on Removing Small Abandoned Dams".