Dams - What Goes Up Must Come Down, and Then What?

The video discusses the complexities and uncertainties surrounding dam removal, highlighting the need for scientific understanding to guide community decisions. Dartmouth geographer Frank Mcgilligan, supported by the National Science Foundation, conducts research on river systems to assess the impact of dam removal. His team uses Lidar and GPS technology to gather detailed topographic data before and after the removal of the Homestead Dam on the Ashuelot River. The research reveals significant changes in river paths and bank erosion, emphasizing the importance of informed decision-making in dam removal processes.

What changes in the river's path have been observed since the dam's removal?

Why is it important to understand how rivers flow when making decisions about dam removal?