Ecological Restoration of Rivers via Dam Removals

Human-made dams degrade river ecosystems by blocking the free movement of fish and aquatic organisms, trapping wood and sediment, and harming water quality by raising temperatures and reducing oxygen levels. Even a single dam can have detrimental effects. When multiplied by the 3,000 dams left in place across the state, these structures significantly degrade the Commonwealth’s important natural habitats.  

Dam removal is one of the most effective ways to restore the health of river ecosystems. The positive effects are immediate and permanent, while the risks are short-term and easily assessed and controlled. Beyond the suite of ecological benefits, removing dams also addresses significant public safety hazards across our landscape. Most dams that exist today serve no active use, are well beyond their design lifespan, and are structurally defective. 

Mass Audubon works with partners to remove obsolete dams for the benefits of ecology and public safety. 

Current & Past Projects

Vinica Brook Watershed Restoration  

• Summary: One of the largest watershed scale projects ever in Massachusetts, restoration of Vinica Brook will remove dozens of barriers across a coldwater stream network within over 2,000 acres of forested land. Beaver re-colonization is key to success here, with increasing biological diversity as the top goal. 
• Status: The restoration design and engineering phase of the project is in progress as of spring 2025.          
• Location: Norcross Wildlife Sanctuary, Wales  
• Partners: Norcross Wildlife Foundation, American Rivers, Stantec, UMass Amherst, Mass Wildlife 
• Acres: 1,600 acres of total restoration, including 300+ acres of wetlands 
• Barriers: Up to 9 dams and 40 culverts   
• Other benefits: Increase biological diversity, improve water quality, and expand habitat for rare, threatened, and endangered species. 

Gravesleigh Dam Removal at Sackett Brook 

• Summary: A small dam removal had a big impact, reconnecting over 100+ miles of stream, and inviting increased biological diversity into the area.
• Status: Completed in 2013              
• Location: Canoe Meadows Wildlife Sanctuary, Pittsfield
• Our role: Project management and on-going stewardship 
• Partners: City of Pittsfield, Natural Resource Damage Assessment and Restoration Program of the MA Department of Environmental Protection, and the US Fish and Wildlife Service, MA Division of Ecological Restoration, Stantec, and others 
• Acres: 3 acres of restored floodplain with native plantings 
• Barriers: 1 small dam removal   
• Other benefits: Improved water quality; expanded habitat for fish and wildlife; on-going learning opportunities through partnership with nearby schools.