constructed a cofferdam to enable the removal of another dam section in the same way. After the removal of this dam section, the Kennebec River returned to its original free-flowing status, the first time in 162 years. The remaining of the dam was removed manually. They used this debris to fill an intake for the hydroelectric powerhouse as well as fill to redevelop the dam site into a park. Restoration Despite several negative visual and environmental factors at first, the ecosystem is healing itself. Initially after the removal of the dam, barren riverbanks and muddy water were evident along the lower of the Kennebec. Introduced smallmouth bass will suffer from the re-introduced striped bass, which tend to feed on young smallmouth bass. An increase in raptor populations, such as ospreys, bald eagles, herons, cormorants, and kingfishers, will be evident. Human activities also benefited from the dam removal. The exposure of rapids and the return of native fish species allows many recreational activities, including canoeing, kayaking, whitewater rafting, and fishing. An estimated $48 million is generated annually just from increased sport fishing. References External links Timeline of Edwards Dam Buildings and structures in Augusta, Maine Dams in Maine Dams completed in 1837 United States privately owned dams Former dams 1999 disestablishments in Maine Buildings and structures demolished in 1999 Dams with fish ladders