RIVER FALLS – The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) announced it has approved the feasibility study for removal of both dams along the Kinnickinnic River in River Falls.
The study examined …
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RIVER FALLS – The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) announced it has approved the feasibility study for removal of both dams along the Kinnickinnic River in River Falls.
The study examined both the cost and the environmental benefits of restoring the Kinnickinnic River to its natural setting by removing one or both hydroelectric dams on the river. The next step in the process is engineering design of the dam removal and river restoration, which will be a City Council decision and will be dependent on USACE funding for this next phase.
“The approval of the feasibility study is a significant and exciting step in the project,” said outgoing River Falls mayor Dan Toland. “Our staff has been engaged with the Army Corps throughout this process, and I want to thank them as well as the USACE staff for their continued work on this study. It has taken longer than anticipated to finish, but I’m so happy to have this next step in this very important project completed.”
The City of River Falls signed a Federal Cost Share Agreement with the USACE in early 2023 under the Continuing Authorities Program (CAP 206). The initial anticipated timeline for the study was 12-18 months, but internal USACE waivers were required that paused work on the feasibility study. Those waivers were ultimately received in November 2024.
The Kinnickinnic River, which flows through River Falls, is a Class I trout stream that currently has two dams along it: the Powell Dam and Junction Falls Dam. The dams have created two impoundments – Lake George and Lake Louise – that have resulted in higher water temperatures, sedimentation, and a decrease in the river’s aquatic diversity.
“The River Falls community is passionate about the Kinnickinnic River and has long supported the removal of the dams,” said mayor-elect Alison Page. “As I begin my tenure as mayor, I look forward to helping advance this project toward the ultimate goal of dam removal and permanent river restoration.”
In addition to fishing, the Kinni is a popular destination for kayaking, birding, and hiking. The City of River Falls is also currently working with the National Park Service Rivers, Trails, and Conservation Assistance Program to further advance the greenway planning along the riverway.
Submitted by City of River Falls
