Water Quality Impacts of Dam Removal on Blackwater Creek

Student Author Information

Wrenn Cleary, University of LynchburgFollow

Location

Room 232, Schewel Hall

Access Type

Campus Access Only

Entry Number

77

Start Date

4-8-2020 3:15 PM

End Date

4-8-2020 3:30 PM

Department

Environmental Science

Abstract

The removal of dams is beneficial to restore ecological integrity but harmful if the dam stores sediment and removes pollutants from impacted river systems. I analyzed chemical and biological components of water quality before, during and after draining of College Lake. I found water quality before and after draining to meet state environmental water quality standards. During the draining water quality violated state standards. Draining of College Lake suggests dam removal in this instance polluted Blackwater Creek substantially. Further, dam removal must be accompanied by sediment management to avoid this pollution in the future.

Faculty Mentor(s)

Dr. Thomas Shahady
Dr. Nancy Cowden
Dr. David Perault

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