American rivers proposes a comprehensive aquatic habitat restoration project in pennsylvania s ohio and susquehanna river basins

This Project Grant award from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service under the National Fish Passage Program (CFDA 15.685) provides $1,203,550.00 to American Rivers Inc. to implement a comprehensive aquatic habitat restoration project in Pennsylvania's Ohio and Susquehanna River basins. The key activities include removing 10 dams to reconnect 190 miles of aquatic habitat for species of conservation concern, imperiled, and federally endangered species. The project will also restore approximately 28 acres of wetlands and floodplain. Expected outcomes include improved spawning, rearing, and foraging habitat, enhanced connectivity between large river habitats and headwaters, elimination of obsolete infrastructure, and improved recreational access. This multi-year initiative, with a period of performance from July 1, 2024 to June 30, 2027, aligns with USFWS species management plans and the Pennsylvania State Wildlife Action Plan.

The project aims to remove 10 dams, reconnecting 190 miles of aquatic habitat for species of greatest conservation need (sgcn), imperiled, and federally endangered species. By focusing on high-value watersheds designated as swim or TU brook trout portfolio areas, the project will improve habitat access, increase biodiversity, and provide climate refugia. Activities include DAM removal and the restoration of approximately 28 acres of wetlands and floodplain. Expected outcomes encompass improved spawning, rearing, and foraging habitat, enhanced connectivity between large river habitats and headwaters, elimination of obsolete infrastructure, and improved recreational access. The project aligns with USFWS species management plans, species recovery plans, and the PA state wildlife action plan. American rivers will collaborate with various state and federal agencies, as well as local boroughs, to implement this initiative. By bundling multiple DAM removals, the project aims to maximize efficiency and impact. Beneficiaries include aquatic species, local communities, and recreational users, contributing to both ecological restoration and public benefit.