Bloomsbury Dam Removal
LOCATION: The Bloomsbury dam is located approximately 7.8 miles up-river from the confluence of the Musconetcong River with the Delaware River between the borough of Bloomsbury, Hunterdon County and Greenwich Township, Warren County.
BACKGROUND: The Bloomsbury Dam is a run-of-the-river dam that is approximately 7 feet high and 170 feet long. The dam does not generate hydroelectric power. The Musconetcong River has been federally designated as a National Wild and Scenic River
that has outstanding ecological value in free-flowing condition. Bloomsbury Dam is one of
two remaining dams on the lower Musconetcong River that acts as an impediment to
migratory fish from the Delaware River. Warren Mill Dam is the other and is located three miles downstream.
PURPOSE: Removal of the dam would result in numerous environmental benefits
including restoration of free-flowing conditions, free passage of aquatic organisms, and
improved aquatic habitat. Approximately 7.8 miles of the river would be reconnected and
approximately 7.5 acres of impoundment would be restored to natural river conditions. Key
native fish species that would benefit from the project would include brook trout and
American eel. Removal would also eliminate a public drowning hazard and provide safe
passage for recreational boats.
PARTNERSHIPS: The Army Corps and the NJDEP are partnering on the cost share for the design and removal. Other partners are the Musconetcong Watershed Association, NJ Fish and Wildlife, NRCS, Trout Unlimited, RC&D…etc.
SCHEDULE: ONRR anticipates construction of the removal of the dam to take place in the Winter of 2024.
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