The Future of Exeter’s Waterways: The Case for Removing Pickpocket Dam
As Exeter moves forward with the $2.1 million removal of Pickpocket Dam, the decision marks a pivotal moment for the town’s environmental and economic future. Advocates including CCANH, argue that taking down the dam will restore natural river flow, improve fish migration, and reduce long-term maintenance costs. However, the project has also sparked debate among residents concerned about potential impacts on water levels and surrounding properties.
Recently, town residences voted overwhelmingly to spend $2.1 million to remove the Pickpocket Dam.The bond article was approved by a vote of 1501 to 723, gaining the necessary three-fifths needed to pass.
In an op-ed preceding the vote, Melissa Paly aka – the Great Bay Waterkeeper, explores the broader implications of this decision, shedding light on the environmental benefits, community concerns, and what this means for Exeter’s relationship with its waterways.
CCANH has strongly advocated for the dams’ removal, publicly. Below is an op-ed published on SeacoastOnline explaining our stance on Pickpocket Dam and it’s removal. We are pleased to see the townspeople of Exeter agree and progress is being made on removing this outdated piece of unnecessary infrastructure blocking the flow of the Exeter River.
Conservation group backs removal of Pickpocket Dam
To the Editor:
The Coastal Conservation Association of New Hampshire is a non-profit conservation organization comprised of marine recreational enthusiasts, fishermen, and concerned citizens.
The objective of CCA NH is to conserve, promote, and enhance the present and future availability of resources for the benefit and enjoyment of the general public. As such, CCA NH strongly supports the removal of the Pickpocket Dam and warrant Article 4 to fund such actions.
The proposed removal would start the process of restoring habitat that is critical to our native diadromous fishes. Great Bay and its tributaries serve as nursery for a myriad of marine species of extreme economic, recreational and ecological importance. It provides an environment that, which if kept healthy and vibrant, is integral to the New Hampshire Seacoast Region’s continued economic growth and continued practice of cherished cultural traditions.
The science is clear as to the benefits of dam removal on Seacoast rivers feeding into Great Bay.Every dam removal is a step toward restoring migratory fish populations in our estuaries.
Allowing these critical rivers to flow freely is restoring them to their historic place where fresh and saltwater meet naturally. The recent removal of the Great Dam should serve as an example of what the River could be again, oxygenated water and free passage for fish to travel up or down river, as it was historically.
We strongly urge the town of Exeter to support the removal of the Pickpocket Dam via a yes vote on warrant Article 4.
Sincerely,
Zakary Robinson
Coastal Conservation Association of NH