Location: Farmington River | Status: Pending
Summary:
The Farmington River is the largest tributary of the Connecticut River, boasting remarkable biodiversity and recreational opportunities. Unfortunately, this vital tributary and its wildlife resources, ecosystem services, and intrinsic natural beauty are under significant threat. Just eight miles upstream from where the Farmington River joins the Connecticut River is the Rainbow Dam, owned by Stanley Black & Decker. This small, poorly maintained hydropower dam has been in operation since the early 20th century, but due to a quirk of law, it has no federal license to operate. Consequentially, for decades, it has been allowed to effectively block fish passage and degrade the water quality in the Farmington River—even leading to harmful algal blooms which can pose a threat to human health.
In April 2024, American Rivers named the Farmington River one of America’s Most Endangered Rivers based on the threat posed by the Rainbow Dam. Save the Sound has been advocating for the removal of this dam and monitoring Stanley Black & Decker’s compliance with all applicable laws in operating it.
Latest Step: Save the Sound has been advocating for the removal of Rainbow Dam and monitoring compliance with applicable laws.
Next Step: Await Stanley Black & Decker’s decision as to whether to remove Rainbow Dam. If Stanley Black & Decker continues to operate Rainbow Dam, Save the Sound will continue monitoring its compliance and may pursue legal action to enforce applicable environmental laws.
Further Reading:
Action Opportunities:
Last Updated: October 4, 2024