Maine has more than 1,000 dams across its rivers and streams and most of them no longer serve their intended purpose. Instead, these decaying structures continue to damage habitats and ecosystems associated with the rivers they obstruct. Yarmouth’s two dams on the Royal River, built more than 160 years ago, are an unfortunate example of how these relics impede the restoration of precious riverine habitat.

From Sabbathday Lake to Casco Bay, the Yarmouth dams affect fish, birds and animals that depend on the river’s resources by blocking access, slowing river flows, altering habitat and degrading water quality. We support removing these dams, as they harm the environment and pose risks of flooding and dam failure for the town. If the dams are not removed, taxpayers face long-term maintenance, repair and eventually significant replacement costs. Town officials have stated that if dam removal is approved, funding would come from grants and other sources, not the town’s budget.

The most effective way to restore the river and rejuvenate the ecosystem is through dam removal. Dam removals are happening across our state, country and even globally as communities recognize that the benefits of dam removal far outweigh leaving them to decay. Removing the obsolete East Elm Street and Bridge Street dams in Yarmouth would reconnect the Royal River to Casco Bay, opening access to 135 miles of upstream spawning and nursery habitat for migratory fish, like river herring and sea-run trout. The return of these fish supports birds, animals and other wildlife that rely on them for food.

As the fish populations expand, they support the marine ecosystem, provide a valuable bait source for lobstering and support commercial fishing by rebuilding ocean groundfish stocks, as they are an essential food source for fish, like cod and haddock. Free-flowing rivers are more resilient to climate change, adapting better to shifts in temperature, reducing flood risks and enhancing biodiversity. As plants grow once again on restored riverbanks, they capture CO2 in the atmosphere. Allowing the blocked river to flow naturally helps cool the water and boosts its oxygen levels, resulting in a healthier river for aquatic life.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) contracted with the town of Yarmouth in 2021 to study the feasibility of removing the dams and to address concerns about water levels, sediment volume and contamination in the dam impoundments. USACE found that the riverbed upstream of both dams has minimal sediment with mostly scoured bedrock and cobbles with a fringe of sediment along each bank. Testing of the available sediment showed very low chemical concentrations that pose minimal risk to aquatic life, consistent with previous studies.

USACE concluded that removing Yarmouth’s dams is safe for the estuary, surrounding infrastructure and downstream businesses. They recommend removing the Bridge Street Dam and partially removing the East Elm Street dam. At middle falls, where past industrial activity may have altered the riverbed and hindered fish migration, the USACE recommends modifications to support fish migration.

The USACE report confirms that post-dam removal, canoeing and kayaking will continue to be enjoyed upstream from the East Elm Street Dam, while white-water kayaking opportunities will extend downstream, and fishing and nature-watching opportunities will increase throughout the river. Removing the decaying dams will unveil natural features like bedrock outcroppings and cascades, enhancing the scenic beauty in the Royal River Park. The reflecting pool upstream of Route 1 will remain intact and continue to provide a gathering place for geese, ducks and other wildlife.

After 20 years of studies, Royal River Alliance urges the town of Yarmouth to take action and seize this opportunity to remove the dams. Dam removal is the most cost-effective approach to river restoration and will have a lasting positive impact on the river, wildlife and the community. Healing starts with dam removal. Nature will do the rest.