After The Flood: Integrating ecology, history, and narrative in recreation site planning on the Snake River after dam removal

Abstract

Large dam removals are highly complex logistically, ecologically, and culturally, and include many stakeholders. Given how few projects there are as examples, the models for these types of projects are being formed now. In this project, I researched the ecological and cultural impacts of large dams and their removal, specifically looking at the Snake River and the potential removal of its lower four dams, and landscape architecture’s place in the process of restoration and redesign after removal. How can landscape architects confront the legacy of dams and address layered natural and cultural history through site planning? Grounded in the perspective that ecology and culture are inextricably tied, this project addresses stakeholders and the layered cultural and natural history. It creates a narrative of place through site planning of a recreation area below a dam on the Snake River.