In a significant and unanimous decision, the Yarmouth town council has voted to eliminate two town-owned dams located on the Royal River, while also exploring improvements for fish passage in the rapids between them. This milestone vote marks an important moment in a journey that has spanned over twenty years, culminating in this historic action taken earlier this month.
The resolution stems from a federal proposal introduced last spring, representing the most decisive step forward regarding the removal of the Bridge Street Dam and the East Elm Street Dam since initial studies began in 2009. These studies aimed to assess how their removal could enhance the health of the Royal River as well as support local fisheries.
The actions outlined in the resolution go beyond mere dam removal; they include plans to manage and monitor fish passage around and between the dams, as well as efforts to revegetate and stabilize parts of the riverbanks. Additionally, the plan aims to combat the spread of invasive species in the area. To maintain the water flow around Gooch Island, where the East Elm Street Dam has caused some diversion, the plan may incorporate modifications to a small section of the dam to safeguard aquatic habitats.
Notably, the resolution also emphasizes that Yarmouth lies within the traditional territory of the Wabanaki people, acknowledging the significance of the Royal River watershed that they refer to as “Westcustogo.”
During a recent meeting on January 2, town council members and environmental advocates expressed their excitement about the resolution, reflecting on the many years of advocacy and research that contributed to this moment. Town councilor David Craig described the journey as complex and emotional, stating that “it’s time to free the Royal” and restore the river’s natural flow.
In April, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers highlighted the significant potential of dam removal for improving river habitats and restoring fish access to historical spawning grounds—areas where sea-going fish like alewives have been largely absent due to the dams. Following this report, both the town council and a specially assembled Royal River task force engaged with the Corps to draft a resolution in line with the agency’s recommendations, also gathering feedback from the public.
An October environmental impact assessment by the Corps reaffirmed that removing the dams would not pose environmental risks or adversely affect the town harbor at the river’s mouth. While marina operators in Yarmouth Harbor had expressed concerns regarding the potential for chemical contaminants in sediments behind the dams, the Corps determined that the chemical levels found were low. They predicted that removal would result in only temporary increases in water turbidity and some minor erosion, concluding that these short-term impacts would not significantly harm the environment.
The resolution also instructs the town to support local businesses in securing “risk mitigation insurance” for marina owners, utilizing tax increment financing when suitable. Craig emphasized that this measure is crucial to mitigate financial risks faced by these businesses, despite the overall assurance regarding safety during the dam removal process.
However, during the December meeting, some marina owners expressed skepticism regarding the dam removal and the proposed financing strategy. Deborah Delp, president of Yankee Marina and Boatyard, voiced concerns about the uncertainty of the project’s costs. She emphasized the town’s responsibility to ensure the best financial decisions are made for the community.
According to the Corps’ estimates, the total cost of the project is projected at approximately $5.7 million, with Yarmouth potentially responsible for around 35 percent, or $2 million. Nevertheless, council members defended their decision-making approach, assuring that while a firm funding strategy has not yet been established, the town remains committed to various funding opportunities that can lessen the burden on local taxpayers.
In an effort to address apprehensions regarding any potential financial impacts on residents, the council amended the resolution on January 2 to ensure that property tax revenues will not finance the project. Instead, the town aims to secure funds from external sources, including government, nonprofit, and philanthropic organizations.
The resolution also commits to securing outside funding aimed at maintaining recreational access to the Royal River, both within Yarmouth and upstream in North Yarmouth, as the river’s flow is expected to return to historically lower levels following dam removal.
Landis Hudson, a Yarmouth resident and executive director of environmental nonprofit Maine Rivers, shared her support for the council’s decision, highlighting the challenging nature of advocating for such changes among community members with concerns about the future. She stressed the importance of embracing change, stating, “Rivers are about change.”
