Work is underway to remove the White Rock Dam on the Pawcatuck River, along the Rhode Island/Connecticut border.The dam was built in 1940.
The White Rock Dam is located seven miles from the mouth of thePawcatuckRiver, near Westerly andStonington, Ct. Dams have restricted its flow since before the American Revolutionary War. The current dam stands six feet tall and more than 100 feet long.
Environmental officials say removing it will open nearly 25 miles of river and reduce the risk of future flooding. The project also promises to restore habitats for migrating fish and wildlife. The work will be completed by the Nature Conservancy and the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service. The federal government awarded nearly $2 million for the demolition.
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