North Carolina Dam Balances Wildlife Protection and Power Generation
The Roanoke Rapids Dam in North Carolina has completed a 20-year study to determine the optimal water flow that protects river wildlife while maximizing hydroelectric power generation. Operated by Dominion Energy, the dam tested three flow levels—low, medium, and high—since 2004, under its federal license. Researchers monitored the impact on American shad, eels, and freshwater mussels, concluding that the medium flow level provides sufficient habitat for wildlife without compromising electricity production. 
