States
IndianaThe project to remove a low-head dam from the Big Blue River in Edinburgh, Indiana, has been successfully completed. This removal benefits lake sturgeon and American eel, as well as several species of mussels, including the threatened round hickorynut, rabbitsfoot, spike, wavyrayed lampmussel, kidneyshell, and purple lilliput.
The removal of the dam has improved ecological resilience by reopening habitat and increasing stream flow. Additionally, the surrounding community will benefit from enhanced safety for recreational activities, new economic development opportunities, and improved access to fishing.
Project Quick Facts:
| Project Status | Complete |
| Location | IN, Johnson County |
| NFPP Project Funding | $560,000 |
| Restoration Techniques | Low-head dam removal |
| Accomplishments | 373 Stream Miles Reconnected |
| Partner Project Lead | Ecosystems Connections Institute |
The National Fish Passage Program combines technical expertise with a track record of success.
Implemented primarily through the Service's Fish and Wildlife Conservation Offices, the National Fish Passage Program provides financial and technical assistance to partners across the country. Since 1999, the program has worked with over 2,000 local communities, Tribes, and private landowners to remove or bypass over 3,400 barriers to fish passage fish passage
Fish passage is the ability of fish or other aquatic species to move freely throughout their life to find food, reproduce, and complete their natural migration cycles. Millions of barriers to fish passage across the country are fragmenting habitat and leading to species declines. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's National Fish Passage Program is working to reconnect watersheds to benefit both wildlife and people.
Learn more about fish passage and reopen access to over 61,000 miles of upstream habitat for fish and other animals. Staff have expertise in fish migration and biology as well as financial, engineering, and planning assistance to communities, Tribes, and landowners to help them remove barriers and restore rivers for the benefit both fish and people.
Fish passage project proposals can be initiated by any individual, organization, government, or agency. However, proposals must be submitted and completed in cooperation with a Fish and Wildlife Conservation Office. (Please note that fish passage projects being used for federal or state compensatory mitigation or required by existing federal or state regulatory programs are not eligible for funding through the National Fish Passage Program.)
CONTACT A FISH PASSAGE COORDINATOR IN YOUR AREA TO GET STARTED.
