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  • Elwha Dam Removal: Restoring the River Mouth Ecosystem
    Changes to the River Mouth

    The Elwha dam removals have had a number of significant impacts on the river mouth, including:

    * Increased sediment input: The dams had trapped sediment for decades, preventing it from reaching the river mouth. With the dams gone, sediment is now able to flow freely down the river, creating new sandbars and mudflats.

    * Channel widening: The increased sediment input has also caused the river channel to widen, creating more habitat for fish and other aquatic species.

    * Increased water flow: The dams had slowed the flow of water in the river, which had a number of negative impacts on the river ecosystem. With the dams gone, water is now able to flow more freely, which has improved water quality and habitat conditions for fish and other aquatic species.

    * Increased fish populations: The dam removals have led to significant increases in fish populations in the Elwha River. Salmon, steelhead, and bull trout are all now returning to the river to spawn in greater numbers than they have in decades.

    * Improved water quality: The dam removals have also improved water quality in the Elwha River. The water is now clearer, colder, and more oxygenated, which is creating a healthier environment for fish and other aquatic species.

    The Elwha dam removals are still a work in progress, but they are already having a number of positive impacts on the river mouth and the surrounding ecosystem. As the river continues to adjust to the changes, we can expect to see even more benefits in the years to come.

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