projects

American Whitewater recently joined regional paddling and conservation partners in seeking additional class III paddling opportunities on Vermont's Little and West rivers.  The requests were formal filings made to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission.

This week American Whitewater, New England Flow and the Vermont Paddlers Club are filing a detailed written request for studies relating to a proposed hydropower project on the popular West River.  The requested studies would provide critical insight into the effects of the proposed project on recreation, hydrology, and Atlantic salmon.

The Army Corps of Engineers announced today that they will be releasing 1500-1800cfs all weekend (March 26-28).  Read the full article for details, and as always, be safe out there. 

A private hydropower company has proposed to install hydropower generation facilities in two Army Corps of Engineers Dams on the West River (VT), including Ball Mountain Dam which provides releases into the popular whitewater section of the West. The Company, Blue Heron Hydro (BHH) is hosting a public meeting and site visit to discuss their proposal. Paddlers interested in the effects that the hydropower installation may have on the West River are encouraged to attend the meeting and site visit.

The Nature Conservancy (TNC) is currently investigating opportunities for restoring natural functions to the Connecticut River Watershed in Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Vermont.  TNC's efforts are focused on reconnecting rivers and streams, restoring floodplain forests, and managing flows for people and nature. AW is working with TNC, and we are hopeful that this process will benefit several whitewater rivers and their enjoyment. 

Paddling representatives were shocked this week to receive a letter from Richard Carlson of the Army Corps of Engineers (ACOE) stating that the spring release on the Vermont’s popular West River would be made during the week rather than on a weekend as has been the practice for decades.  This news follows an ACOE decision last fall to move the release earlier into the spring when the state park that provides access is closed.  We ask that West River paddlers take action on this issue.