If the river looks different, you’re not imagining it! The old low-head dam has been removed.

Workers have completed removal of the low‑head dam on the East Fork White River ahead of schedule, marking a major milestone in the Riverfront Project. Crews finished dismantling the 1903 structure in less than the projected 10 days, opening the river to a natural flow and dramatically changing its appearance.

The dam, long considered an eyesore and a drowning hazard due to its deteriorating condition, was removed to improve safety, prevent erosion on the west bank and support long‑term river restoration efforts. Most of the project’s cost is covered by state and federal grant funding.