North Carolina dam tested three water flows for 20 years, and scientists found the level that protects river wildlife while keeping more water for power

North Carolina dam tested three water flows for 20 years, and scientists found the level that protects river wildlife while keeping more water for power

For two decades, the Roanoke Rapids Dam has been diligently analyzing water flow levels. Scientists observed the effects on fish and mussel populations, discovering that a medium flow rate supports wildlife while optimizing power generation. This significant finding permits greater water diversion to enhance electricity production, as the dam commits to using this medium flow strategy for an additional eighteen years.