From Mirror staff reports

CLEARFIELD — A study into the feasibility and benefit aspects of replacing two low head dams in the Clearfield and Curwensville areas has found that removal of the dams and the placement of in-water recreational features would not only provide recreational opportunities but would benefit the environment, as well.

In an effort to share the study findings with the public, Clearly Ahead Development published a Frequently Asked Questions memorandum on its website that talks about plan alternatives for the replacement of low head dams at Pee Wee’s Nest in Curwensville and the Raftsman Memorial Dam in downtown Clearfield.

In spring, summer and fall of 2023, more than 30 local stakeholders, including municipal officials, discussed the possibility of in-water recreational parks as a way to improve the waterways of the West Branch of the Susquehanna River. In-water parks could also attract additional visitors to the area, increasing tourism and boosting the local economy.

In 2023, S2O Design & Engineering was hired by Clearly Ahead Development to conduct the study, funded in part by the Appalachian Region Commission and Visit Clearfield County.

Rob Swales, CEO of Clearly Ahead Development, said S20 found the deteriorating dams could be removed and replaced with in-water recreational features in both the Curwensville and Clearfield areas. The move would provide recreational park opportunities and maintain upriver surface elevations and flows.

S2O Design & Engineering, a global leader in the creation of public whitewater park design and engineering solutions, outlined multiple project objectives and identified targeted end-users as part of the study.

The firm looked at ways to: solve the ongoing repair issues associated with failing low head dams; eliminate inherent risk posed by low head dams by providing carefully designed recreational structures without adversely affecting above and below stream levels on public waterways; improve fish passage and connectivity; improve fish habitat and biodiversity; allow canoe and kayak navigation and eliminate dangerous portages around existing dams; provide enhanced recreational experiences for residents to enjoy on the water; provide a community gathering place for everyone to enjoy on and off the water; increase visibility of Curwensville and Clearfield as outdoor recreation destinations; and provide attractions to draw visitors for a “stay and play” experience to provide a significant positive economic impact for the community.

The FAQ on the low head dams and the associated study can be found on the Clearly Ahead Development website at clearlyahead.com. Click on Business Services, then click on News. Online documents include artist renderings of what the completed project could look like.