The SPY run DAM removal in the maumee river basin project, located in fort wayne, indiana, includes the removal of the SPY run DAM, a 7 x 2 low-head DAM that spans the width of the creek and is a…

The SPY run DAM removal in the maumee river basin project, located in fort wayne, indiana, includes the removal of the SPY run DAM, a 7 x 2 low-head DAM that spans the width of the creek and is a barrier to aquatic movement. The project also includes streambank and aquatic habitat restoration as necessary. The removal of SPY run DAM will open 9.5 miles of SPY run creek and its major tributaries to the maumee river basin and reconnect the creek to 87 acres of wetlands upstream of the project area. The above mentioned project will include a comprehensive design, removal of latent sediment behind the DAM, and complete DAM removal to eliminate the in-stream barrier. Additionally, bank stabilization will occur utilizing native vegetative practices. Finally, the stream will be observed for up to one year to determine in-stream habitat restoration work necessary to bring back natural in-stream habitat. Techniques such as installing stone cross vanes and j-hooks will be employed to reestablish riffle-pool sequences if necessary.several federally listed endangered and threatened mussels historically lived in the maumee river basin including the clubshell, round hickorynut, and rayed bean mussels. The clubshell and round hickorynut were observed in a 2008 mussel survey on the rivers of fort wayne, and the species survival assessment for the rayed bean mussel states that if nothing is done within this section of the maumee river basin IT may become extirpated. Additionally, the state listed gilt darter was historically found within this watershed. Improving water quality, eliminating in-stream barriers, and creating habitat for mussels and their host fish in the maumee river basin is essential to the survival of these imperiled species. The city of fort wayne, division of city utilities has requested 33,794.62 from the FY23 great lakes fish and wildlife restoration act to assist with funding this large and meaningful project. The anticipated improvements within SPY run creek and the maumee river basin will have a positive impact on aquatic life within the system.