Community safety is a top priority for all of us, especially as we face increasingly severe and frequent weather events due to climate change. And now, watershed experts are proposing a solution that could help bolster our safety: the elimination of obsolete or unsafe dams.

According to a new white paper published by Utah State University, storms and floods have intensified in both frequency and severity since the construction of dams. And the fact that many of these dams are now in a state of disrepair only adds to the danger they pose to our communities.

The issue of dams has long been a contentious and polarizing topic, with some arguing for their benefits in terms of water storage and hydroelectric power, and others pointing to their negative impact on the environment and wildlife. However, as we face the realities of climate change, it’s becoming increasingly clear that the potential risks and dangers of dams far outweigh their benefits.

For one, climate change is leading to more extreme weather events such as heavy rainfall and powerful storms. This poses a significant threat to dams, which were often built decades ago and may not be equipped to handle such intense conditions. As a result, many dams are at risk of failure, which could have devastating consequences for the communities living downstream.

Furthermore, as we experience more frequent and severe droughts, the water storage capacity of dams becomes less effective. This means that they are less able to provide the water supply that they were originally intended for. In fact, studies have shown that some dams may even exacerbate the impacts of droughts by reducing the flow of rivers and streams.

But it’s not just the environmental impact of dams that we need to consider. With the increasing frequency of extreme weather events, there is a growing concern for the safety of our communities. Dams can create a false sense of security, leading people to build homes and businesses in areas that are at risk of flooding. And when these dams fail or overflow, the consequences can be catastrophic.

That’s why watershed experts are now recommending the elimination of obsolete or unsafe dams. By removing these structures, we can restore the natural flow of rivers and streams, which is crucial for maintaining healthy and resilient ecosystems. It also reduces the risk of dam failure and flooding, ensuring the safety of communities living downstream.

Of course, the idea of removing dams may be met with resistance, especially from those who have invested time and money in their construction. But it’s important to remember that the benefits of removing dams far outweigh any short-term losses. Not only does it mitigate the risks of flooding and drought, but it also allows for the restoration of important habitats for fish and other wildlife.

Moreover, the removal of dams can also have economic benefits. According to the white paper, the estimated cost of removing a dam is often significantly less than the cost of repairing or maintaining one. This means that, in the long run, removing obsolete or unsafe dams can actually save money for both taxpayers and private entities.

It’s time for us to start taking action to protect our communities, our environment, and our future. Removing obsolete or unsafe dams may seem like a daunting task, but the benefits are undeniable. It’s a proactive and necessary step in the face of climate change, and it’s one that we must take to ensure the safety and well-being of our communities.

In conclusion, eliminating obsolete or unsafe dams is a critical step in bolstering community safety amidst climate-induced weather extremes. These structures, which were once thought to be beneficial, now pose a significant threat to our environment and the safety of our communities. By removing them, we can restore the natural flow of rivers and streams, mitigate the risk of flooding and drought, and protect our communities from the impacts of climate change. It’s time for us to prioritize the safety of our communities and take the necessary steps towards a more sustainable future.