MDNR works with local communities and owners of hydroelectric dams to remove dams that no longer serve a useful purpose. The removal of a dam that no longer serves a purpose provides an opportunity for river restoration. Not only are fish able to pass freely, but water quality is often improved. Dam removal also eliminates concerns surrounding old dams that are unsafe or require extensive maintenance.

Big Rapids Dam on Muskegon River, Mecosta County was built in 1914 and owned by the City of Big Rapids. In 1966, a portion of this 17-foot hydropower dam operated by Consumers Power was improperly removed, causing a massive release of sediment downstream. A remnant portion of the dam 5-feet in height was left in place. This remnant dam posed a safety hazard and contributed to several drowning deaths. An effort led by the City of Big Rapids, Michigan Department of Natural Resources, Michigan Department of Environmental Quality, U.S. Geological Survey, Great Lakes Protection Fund, National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, and the Great Lakes Fishery Trust led to the removal of Big Rapids Dam in 2000 and 2001. The removal of this dam involved extensive sediment removal (not contaminated). Additionally, numerous studies of stream morphology, sediment transport, habitat and fish/benthic populations were conducted to assess before and after conditions.

For more information, go to:http://www.ci.big-rapids.mi.us/damremoval/general/outline.htm

Big Rapids original dam

Big Rapids Dam prior to removal in 2000

Muskegon River after Big Rapids Dam removal in 2001