U.S. dismantles 100 aging dams in 2025, restoring nearly 5,000 river miles
In 2025, the United States removed 100 dams across 30 states, reconnecting more than 4,893 miles of rivers, according to American Rivers.
American Rivers reported that 100 dams were dismantled in 2025 across 30 states, reopening over 4,893 river miles to natural flow. Pennsylvania removed the most structures, 14, bringing its total documented removals since 1912 to 433. Ecological restoration drove 59 of the projects, while 37 addressed dilapidated or failing dams and 20 cited safety concerns.
Notable examples include the Forest City Dam removal in Iowa, which restored 99 miles for fish, and the DuPont Experimental Station Dam removal in Delaware, which enabled American shad spawning after a century. The Georges Mill Dam in Virginia was taken down after multiple drownings, improving habitat for the endangered orangefin madtom. Tribal involvement featured in the Jenny Creek Diversion Dam project in California, highlighting cultural dimensions of river restoration.
Why it matters
Restoring river connectivity improves ecosystems, fish populations, and public safety across the United States.
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