The push to remove two dams on Northern California’s Eel River, making it the longest free-flowing river in the state, took a step forward Thursday with a major agreement among clashing communities.

Water from the Eel River has been funneled through the Potter Valley plant into the Russian River watershed since 1908 ― ...

The Tri-Dam Project says the decision was made to prevent the introduction of the Golden Mussel, an invasive species known for causing severe ecological and infrastructure damage.

While tearing down a dam can cost millions of dollars, the price of keeping an obsolete barrier in place may be even steeper.