How Dams Are Removed
September 8, 2011 | Dams & Dam RemovalThis video clip shows a portion of the removal process for the Harmony Junction Dam on Connoquenessing Creek north of Pittsburgh, removed in 2009 to provide fish passage, increase boating access, to eliminate a public safety hazard, and minimize flooding in the area.
First the contractor uses a hydraulic hammer mounted on a track-hoe to cut a small notch in the dam to release the impounded water slowly. Then the opening in the dam is slowly enlarged to minimize downstream impacts.
Check out the video:
It took two weeks of work to completely remove the dam and restore the stream bank. The photograph shows what the site looks like two years after dam removal.
We think it's exciting to watch a river come back to life. What do you think?
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