Dams fragment rivers and stop migration of fish. Free flowing rivers allow the natural transfer of wild fish, nutrients, and sediment. Dam removals are expensive. Free-flowing rivers cost nothing. Dams can exacerbate flooding and risk to personal property and infrastructure. Free-flowing rivers connected to their floodplains create more resilient landscapes and protect our communities. That’s a true statement! Dammed waters can create recreational opportunities. Free-flowing rivers connect to the core joys and satisfaction of the human experience on water. 

Blydenburgh Pond Dam, also known as Stump Pond Dam, was destroyed in August 2024 storm. The county has already allocated $6.6 million for planning and reconstruction, and preliminary engineering services, surveys, and watershed mapping are underway. In partnership with Seatuck, Save the Sound, American Rivers, as well as both the Art Flick & Long Island  we are advocating for a free-flowing Nissequogue River which would offer long-term ecological, economic, and recreational benefits, supporting Trout Unlimited’s mission to care for and recover streams and rivers for future generations.

Please join me in signing The Free Flowing Nissequogue River Petition today!