Bear Run Dam Removal Bear Run Nature Reserve

Bear Run Dam Removal Bear Run Nature Reserve PALTA – State College May 9, 2009 Andrew Zadnik

Bear Run Nature Reserve Background • 1 st parcels donated in 1963 • 5, 079 acres • Laurel Highlands • Hardwood and hemlock forests/conifer plantations • 4 high-gradient streams • “Fallingwater” Youghiogheny River gorge

Bear Run Nature Reserve

Bear Run Nature Reserve 2007 Conservation Plan Management statement Bear Run Nature Reserve is managed to protect, conserve and restore land water for the diversity of the region’s native plants, animals, and their ecosystems. Streams and watersheds, forests, and common and rare native species are the focus of management. BRNR is integral to biodiversity conservation in the Laurel Highlands and the mid-Appalachian region.

Conservation Targets • Mixed hardwood forest community • Hemlock forest community • High-gradient, clear-water streams • Allegheny woodrat • Goldenseal and American ginseng Imbedded Targets: e. g. brook trout, timber rattlesnake

Conservation Threat Bear Run dams • Constructed in late 1800 s • Once used for water supply • Obsolete • Stress on aquatic community • Safety liability

Bear Run Dam Removal Background • Options for removal? • Penn. DOT stream mitigation? • Partners: WPC, American Rivers, PA Fish and Boat, PA DEP – Dam Safety • Funding and labor • Permitting • Scheduling

Dam Pre-removal - Documentation • Stream profile and cross-sections • Fish surveys • Water quality parameters

Dam Removal - Implementation

Dam Removal - Complete

9 months post-removal

Bear Run Dam Removal Reflections/Advice • Establish partnerships • Look for opportunity • Clarify role of participants • Have a detailed work plan • Be willing to adapt • Document process • Follow-up if possible