RECONNECTING THE SOUTH SKUNK RIVER
RECONNECTING the SOUth Skunk River
A crowd gathered for the dedication of Ames redesigned dam in North River Valley Park in May (2021). Though it looks different with all of the large rocks, the dam continues to recharge the aquifer. Ames relies on this aquifer for its water supply. The rocks breaks the dangerous downstream currents of the originally designed dam.
The rocks reconnect the upper section of the river to the lower section allowing the river to better support aquatic life. The water flowing over the rocks is aerated and better supports aquatic habitat too. Where similar dams have been modified for both habitat and recreation, the fishing improved. The rocks also create a way for paddlers to pass downstream on the South Skunk River Water Trail and enjoy a new whitewater play spot locally.
Ames redesigned North River Valley Park dam was made possible by its partners. Locally, the City of Ames, Story County Conservation, the Skunk River Paddlers, generous individuals and the Outdoor Alliance supported this project. There were also statewide groups that made this project possible: the Iowa DNR, Hawk eye Fly Fishing Association, Iowa River Revival and Iowa White Water Coalition.
The redesigned dam also makes the river more inviting. The sound of the water cascading over the rocks is the river's invitation to take a moment at the waters edge.
The rocks reconnect the upper section of the river to the lower section allowing the river to better support aquatic life. The water flowing over the rocks is aerated and better supports aquatic habitat too. Where similar dams have been modified for both habitat and recreation, the fishing improved. The rocks also create a way for paddlers to pass downstream on the South Skunk River Water Trail and enjoy a new whitewater play spot locally.
Ames redesigned North River Valley Park dam was made possible by its partners. Locally, the City of Ames, Story County Conservation, the Skunk River Paddlers, generous individuals and the Outdoor Alliance supported this project. There were also statewide groups that made this project possible: the Iowa DNR, Hawk eye Fly Fishing Association, Iowa River Revival and Iowa White Water Coalition.
The redesigned dam also makes the river more inviting. The sound of the water cascading over the rocks is the river's invitation to take a moment at the waters edge.
