Fort Covington Dam, Salmon River, NY

The Fort Covington Dam is the first barrier on the Salmon River, located five miles from where it meets the St. Lawrence River. The deteriorated and undersized dam is a public safety hazard that also contributes to upstream flooding because it causes high flows to back up more than they naturally would in a free-flowing river. In addition to improving public safety, the dam removal will enhance recreational boating opportunities and reestablish fish access to more than 35 miles of the Salmon River and tributaries. The project will restore sport fisheries and bring significant benefits to this rural community. The removal, which is funded in part through the American Rivers-NOAA Community-based Habitat Restoration Partnership, began in July 2009.

For more information, contact Stephanie Lindloff, American Rivers, 518-482-2631.

• Read the Press Release
• Read the Blog Post