Sprout Brook Dam Removal

The removal of an obsolete dam improves diadromous fish migration and habitat in a tributary to the Lower Hudson River.

Recognizing that the most effective way to restore fish migration is to remove a dam that has outlived its usefulness, the Hudson Valley Stream Conservancy (HVSC) sought to remove the obsolete five-foot-high Sprout Brook Dam. Located within a popular park, it is the first in a series of small dams along the Sprout Brook, a lower Hudson River tributary. In partnership with Westchester County and with funding from NY DEC, HVSC turned to Biohabitats for help in removing the dam and restoring Sprout Brook to improve diadromous fish migration and habitat, most notably for alewife (Alosa pseudoharengus) and American eel (Anguilla rostrata).

After meeting with representatives from the dam’s owner, the Town of Cortland, Biohabitats conducted a detailed site investigation that included geomorphic observations of the upstream and downstream channels, dam/weir measurements, identification of surface utilities and infrastructure that could be impacted by the project, impounded sediment probing, sediment sampling, and the identification of any rare, threatened, or endangered species and potential historic and archeological concerns. Biohabitats then estimated the quantity of impounded sediment, conducted a hydrologic assessment and hydraulic modeling, and developed a plan to manage the impounded sediment, which had the potential for mobility post dam removal. Biohabitats prepared engineering design plans and permit applications, and provided construction oversight. The restoration improves fish migration and habitat while also enhancing water quality, biodiversity, and recreational opportunities.

TAGS

• Assessment+Monitoring
• Ecological Restoration