Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Vermont's Dam Removals Restore 125 Miles of River

12/23/2025

27 4

Summary

Story summary

The Winooski River watershed in Vermont contains at least 140 dams, many deemed unnecessary and hazardous.
In 2023, nine dams were removed, reconnecting 125 miles of river, according to Michele Braun of the Friends of the Winooski River.
The Vermont Dam Task Force identified 47 more dams for potential removal.
Recent floods heighten urgency, and dam removal is expected to improve ecosystems and water quality.

1 of 1

Story summary

The Winooski River watershed in Vermont contains at least 140 dams, many deemed unnecessary and hazardous.
In 2023, nine dams were removed, reconnecting 125 miles of river, according to Michele Braun of the Friends of the Winooski River.
The Vermont Dam Task Force identified 47 more dams for potential removal.
Recent floods heighten urgency, and dam removal is expected to improve ecosystems and water quality.