This project will remove one hazardous low-head dam on the McClure River in the Town of Clinchco, Virginia, to benefit the federally threatened Big Sandy crayfish within Critical Habitat. Removal of this dam will fully reconnect the 22-mile McClure River for Big Sandy crayfish, allowing movement between two currently isolated and genetically important populations separated by the dam. In addition to the species recovery benefits, this project will uplift a historically underserved community in rural Appalachia, by creating river recreation and tourism opportunities, which is currently not possible on the McClure River due to the hazardous nature of the dam. In total, 83 miles of upstream habitat will be reconnected upstream of Clinchco Dam. 

Project Quick Facts:

LocationVirginia
NFPP Project Funding$500,000
Restoration TechniquesDam Removal
Partner Project LeadCanaan Valley Institute
Scenic waterfall surrounded by lush trees and rocks in a serene forest setting.
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The National Fish Passage Program: Leaders in Building Bridges and Fostering Connections

The National Fish Passage Program is a national leader connecting watersheds and people. The program has decades of experience implementing infrastructure projects with partners. Fish passage project proposals can be initiated by any individual, organization, government, or agency. However, proposals must be submitted and completed in cooperation with a Fish and Wildlife Conservation Office. (Please note that fish passage fish passage
Fish passage is the ability of fish or other aquatic species to move freely throughout their life to find food, reproduce, and complete their natural migration cycles. Millions of barriers to fish passage across the country are fragmenting habitat and leading to species declines. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's National Fish Passage Program is working to reconnect watersheds to benefit both wildlife and people.

Learn more about fish passage projects being used for federal or state compensatory mitigation or required by existing federal or state regulatory programs are not eligible for funding through the National Fish Passage Program.) 

CONTACT A FISH PASSAGE COORDINATOR IN YOUR AREA TO GET STARTED. 

200 Million Dollar Investment in Rivers, Wildlife, and Communities

Clean free-flowing waterways are vital to wildlife, people, and ecosystems. But across the country, millions of barriers fragment rivers, block fish migration, and put communities at higher risk to flooding. The  Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Bipartisan Infrastructure Law
The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) is a once-in-a-generation investment in the nation’s infrastructure and economic competitiveness. We were directly appropriated $455 million over five years in BIL funds for programs related to the President’s America the Beautiful initiative.

Learn more about Bipartisan Infrastructure Law  , signed in November 2021, included $200 million for restoring fish and wildlife passage by removing in-stream barriers and providing technical assistance under the National Fish Passage Program. 

Species

A rust colored crayfish at the bottom of an aquarium tank

The Big Sandy crayfish is a freshwater crustacean found in streams and rivers in the Appalachian Region of Kentucky, Virginia and West Virginia. We have been working with state partners to determine where this dynamic creature is found, and whether it is in danger of extinction. In May 2016...

FWS Focus
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Animalia
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Programs

Juvenile Northern Pike in aquarium at Gavins Point National Fish Hatchery, South Dakota
The Fish and Aquatic Conservation program leads aquatic conservation efforts for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. We are committed to tackling the nation’s highest priority aquatic conservation and recreational challenges to conserve, restore, and enhance fisheries for future generations.
Program
Falls Church,VA
A person is walks through a large wide culvert that passes under a gravel road. A small river runs through the culvert.
Across the country, millions of barriers are fragmenting rivers, blocking fish migration, and putting communities at higher risk to flooding. Improving fish passage is one of the most effective ways to help conserve vulnerable species while building safer infrastructure for communities and...
Program