US removed 100 outdated dams, setting a new river restoration record

AI Summary

In 2025, the United States removed 100 outdated dams across 30 states, setting a new record for river restoration with over 4,893 miles reopened to fish habitats and improved river connectivity. Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, and Vermont led the efforts, enhancing public safety and ecological restoration.

In 2025, the US removed 100 outdated and unsafe dams across 30 states, reconnecting more than 4,893 miles of rivers, the highest number of upstream river miles restored through dam removal in a single year. The projects reopened fish habitats, improved river connectivity and addressed public safety concerns. Pennsylvania led with 14 removals, followed by Massachusetts with 11 and Vermont with nine.