TU Supports Removal of Hollow Dam to Restore West Branch Oswegatchie River

Strategic Insights -

Trout Unlimited (TU) is strongly advocating for the removal of the Hollow Dam (Hydro Project P-12345) on the West Branch Oswegatchie River in New York, citing its negative impacts on the river's coldwater fishery and local recreational opportunities. TU's mission to protect, reconnect, restore, and sustain vital coldwater ecosystems aligns with the goal of restoring the river's native brook trout population and promoting sustainable recreational opportunities for anglers and paddlers.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Hollow Dam's removal would restore 18 miles of the West Branch Oswegatchie River, reconnecting fragmented habitats and eliminating a barrier to fish passage, crucial for the survival of the native brook trout.
  • The dam's impoundment creates a 2-mile-long, warm, and slow-moving reservoir that favors non-native and warm water species, making it unsuitable for trout.
  • Restoring the river to its natural state would provide a competitive advantage for wild brown and native brook trout, requiring large rivers to traverse to find resources.
  • The process of dam removal and river recovery would improve water quality, provide critical sediment and debris transport, and re-establish essential habitat features like rifles and deep pools.
  • Removing the dam would enhance recreational opportunities, providing anglers with access to 18 miles of free-flowing water and attracting more anglers and recreationists.
  • A solution that prioritizes public safety and ecological health is necessary, as the Hollow Dam may become unsafe without adequate funding and will no longer generate energy.

Statistics:

  • 18 miles of the West Branch Oswegatchie River would be restored by removing the Hollow Dam.
  • 2 miles of the river are currently impounded by the dam, creating a reservoir that favors non-native species.
  • The dam has been identified as a barrier to fish passage, threatening the survival of the native brook trout population.
  • Recreational opportunities would be enhanced by removing the dam, providing anglers with access to free-flowing water and attracting more visitors to the region.
  • The local outdoor recreation economy would be strengthened by increasing access to the river and promoting sustainable recreational activities.

Sources:

  • Trout Unlimited (2020). New York State Trout Stream Management Plan. Available from https://extapps.dec.ny.gov/docs/fish_marine_pdf/troutstreammp.pdf.