The Wilder, Bellows Falls, and Vernon dams started the process of securing new operating licenses in 2012. Final license applications were submitted in December 2020, and the owner, Great River Hydro, has proposed operational changes for their three dams that river advocates say will be a big win for the river.
However, they say that Great River can still do more to protect this resource.
Once issued, these dam licenses will remain in place for the next 40 to 50 years. River advocates say those living along the Connecticut River “have a once in a lifetime opportunity to move these three dams to more river- and fish-friendly operations.”
These issues will be discussed at a virtual event, the “Hydropower Happy Hour,” planned for Tuesday, April 6, from 6:30 to 8 p.m.
To register, which is required to receive virtual link to join, visit hydropowerhappyhour.eventbrite.com.
Speakers will include Kathy Urffer, the Connecticut River Conservancy's river steward; Katie Kennedy, applied river scientist for The Nature Conservancy; and Jim McClammer, chair of the Connecticut River Joint Commissions' FERC Working Group.
Additional partners on this event include the Ashuelot River Local Advisory Commission, the Cheshire County Conservation District, the Sullivan County Conservation District, the Grafton County Conservation District, the Windham County Natural Resources Conservation District, and the White River Natural Resources Conservation District.