Dam Removal: Science and Decision Making

Dams have long been familiar features of the American landscape, an integral part of the infrastructure that contribute to the nation’s economic and social well-being. Widespread interest in dam removal, however, is a recent development, spurred by the aging of many dams, by evolving societal values, and by new scientific understanding of the changes brought about by dams. Property owners, public utilities, state and local government officials, and private citizens are faced with difficult and complex decisions, and they need guidance as they attempt to incorporate scientific information into the decision-making process. Dam Removal: Science and Decision Making, a new report from The Heinz Center, is a first step toward filling this need.

Dam Removal: Science and Decision Making is the result of 18 months of research and deliberation by a panel of experts with experience in government, industry, academia, and environmental organizations. Focusing on the nation’s small dams, the report outlines the current state of research on and experience with dam removal. It is a primer for dam removal decision makers, recounting lessons learned from previous dam removals and providing a step-by-step design for informed and responsible decision making.

For the Dam Removal: Science and Decision Making report please visit our publications page.

For more information contact Sheila David, Project Manager