Heavy machinery removing Lyons DamLyons Dam in Ionia County, Michigan, a high-hazard structure located on the Grand River, was completely removed this summer, restoring natural river functions and allowing unimpeded fish movement.
Lyons Dam, owned by the village of Lyons, was an 8-foot-high, concrete-covered, rock-crib structure. The dam was in a deteriorated state, which earlier this summer prompted dam safety inspectors from the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality to issue an emergency order to stabilize the structure. Due to cost estimates, it was determined that removal was more feasible than repair. Project oversight was provided by the Ionia Conservation District and funded by grants from the Department of Natural Resources and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
The process for removing Lyons Dam was complex because several issues, including the presence of endangered snuffbox mussels, needed to be addressed. Design changes were made to reduce the overall project footprint, and snuffbox mussels were relocated prior to the removal and will be monitored for a period of time post-project completion. Demolition was slowed when the removal crew encountered a steel sheet pile wall that was not included on historical design documents. This discovery required the post-removal design to be changed dramatically.
“We’re thrilled to finally have this structure removed from the Grand River. This river reach can now function more naturally and all species of fish can move freely through the system,” said Scott Hanshue, DNR fisheries biologist and liaison on this project. “Additionally, it means great things for canoeists and kayakers who will now have a new experience to look forward to.” In the dam’s place is now a “Newberry riffle” – which looks and functions like natural rapids. The design includes a low-flow channel to allow for passage of canoes, kayaks and fish. During normal flow it also will allow for the passage of small boats.
To learn more about dams in Michigan, visit michigan.gov/dnrdams.
Source: www.thefishingwire.com.