The Elwha Dam was a 108-ft high dam located in the United States, in the state of Washington, on the Elwha River approximately 4.9 miles (7.9 km) upstream from the mouth of the river on the Strait of Juan de Fuca.
Elwha Dam in 2005
Restoration prospects for various species of fish in the Elwha River. Prospects are presented for the different options and degrees of dam removal or fish bypass plans. Shows that removal of both dams results in the best prospects for all types of fish.
The former bed of Lake Aldwell, now occupied by the Elwha River, in October 2012
The progression of reclamation of 715 acres (2.9 km2) of vegetation habitat currently covered by the lakes. The river channel restores itself to a natural state as does the vegetation. Prior to dam removal, upstream waters are depleted in nutrients, impounded waters increase in temperature, and downstream waters are depleted in sediments and woody debris.
The Elwha River is a 45-mile (72 km) river on the Olympic Peninsula in the U.S. state of Washington. From its source at Elwha snowfinger in the Olympic Mountains, it flows generally north to the Strait of Juan de Fuca. Most of the river's course is within the Olympic National Park.
U.S. Route 101 crossing the Elwha River with Mt Fairchild in the Background.
Elwha Dam with Lake Aldwell behind. The power house can be seen in the center.
The lower Elwha (below the former Aldwell Reservoir) is rated class II.
