Record number of dams dismantled in Europe in effort to help wildlife thrive
Summary
Europe removed a record 602 dams and barriers in 2025 to help restore rivers and support wildlife. This effort is part of a larger goal to reconnect over 15,000 miles of rivers by 2030 for better natural water flow and healthier ecosystems.Key Facts
- Iceland officially removed its first dam on the River Melsá in 2025.
- Across Europe, 602 dams, weirs, culverts, and sluices were removed, an 11% increase from 2024.
- The removals reconnected 2,324 miles (3,740 km) of rivers in Europe last year.
- Sweden removed the most barriers (173), followed by Finland (143) and Spain (109).
- More than three-quarters of removed barriers were less than 2 meters tall and mostly no longer served their original purpose.
- River blockages have contributed to a 75% decline in Europe’s freshwater migratory fish population since 1970.
- The EU’s nature restoration law from 2024 requires the removal of many obsolete barriers to restore water ecosystems.
- Similar dam removal efforts are happening in the US and China to improve river health and wildlife habitats.
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