Dam removal can significantly benefit the environment by restoring natural river flows, improving water quality, and enhancing aquatic habitats. Removing dams allows fish to migrate freely for spawning and feeding, and it can also reduce the negative impacts of stagnant water, like excessive algae growth. 

In Virginia, at least 46 dam removals have been documented through 2021; recent examples include the removals of Monumental Mills Dam and Wilson Creek Dam.

Here’s a more detailed look at the benefits:

1. Restoring Natural River Flows:

• Dams disrupt the natural flow of rivers, altering water temperature, sediment transport, and overall river dynamics. 
• Dam removal allows rivers to flow naturally, which is crucial for the health of the ecosystem. 
• This natural flow helps restore riverbed habitats and allows for the movement of sediment and debris, which are essential for downstream ecosystems. 

2. Improving Water Quality:

• Dams can trap sediment, leading to nutrient buildup and increased algae growth in the reservoir. 
• Dam removal can eliminate these issues, reducing algae blooms and improving water clarity. 
• It can also help reduce the release of methane, a potent greenhouse gas, from decaying organic matter in reservoirs. 
• By restoring natural flow, dam removal can also help cool down water temperatures and increase dissolved oxygen levels, both of which are vital for aquatic life. 

3. Enhancing Aquatic Habitats:

• Dams act as barriers to fish migration, preventing them from reaching spawning grounds and limiting access to suitable habitats. 
• Removing dams allows fish to migrate freely, promoting the recovery of fish populations. 
• It also helps restore the natural structure of the riverbed, creating diverse habitats for various aquatic species. 
• The return of natural flow also allows for the natural movement of sediment and large woody debris, which are important for creating and maintaining diverse habitats. 

4. Climate Change Mitigation:

• Dams can contribute to greenhouse gas emissions, particularly methane, from reservoir sediments. 
• Dam removal can help reduce these emissions, contributing to a healthier climate. 
• Flowing rivers also play a role in regulating local temperatures and can help mitigate the effects of urban heat islands. 
• By restoring natural river flows, dam removal can contribute to a more resilient and sustainable water system in the face of climate change, according to The Revelator.