Fish Passage (Fremont, OH)
Project Description
The Ballville Dam project is located on the Sandusky River approximately 10 miles upstream of the mouth at Sandusky Bay in Lake Erie.
The dam impedes the passage of native migratory fish to the upstream areas of the Sandusky River, which contains ideal spawning habitat, thus impairing the reproduction of native fish species. During the feasibility study, the benefits and alternatives for fish passage, including dam removal, were evaluated. Target species are walleye, white bass, channel catfish, six species of suckers, lake sturgeon, and several other native and naturalized fish species.
The Sandusky River and Sandusky Bay spawning stocks are significant contributors to the Lake Erie walleye population and provide a significant spring and fall fishery in Ohio waters. The expected results of the proposed project are:
- The availability of an additional 22 miles of free-flowing river containing 300 acres of suitable spawning habitat to fish and benthic species
- Restoration of sediment transport processes
- Increased species diversity both upstream and downstream of the dam
- Enhanced foraging opportunities for bald eagles and other animals
- Prevention of future dependence on walleye stocking programs to sustain the fishery
- Contribution toward the goals outlined in the Great Lakes basin-wide management plan developed by the Great Lakes Fishery Commission and its partners
Modification or removal of the dam for the purpose of fisheries and ecosystem restoration is complicated by a flood damage reduction project located downstream of the dam. It is unknown at this point if modifications to the dam will have any adverse impacts on the flood and coastal storm damage reduction project.
Nonfederal Partners
- City of Fremont
- Ohio Department of Natural Resources, Division of Wildlife
Congressional Interest
- Senator Sherrod Brown (D-OH)
- Senator Robert Portman (R-OH)
- Representative Robert E. Latta (R-OH-5)
Current Status
A wetlands delineation of the project area was completed in 2010. The ice model and hydraulic model of the Sandusky River within the project area are scheduled for completion in March 2011.
Funding (feasability only)
| Total | Federal | Nonfederal | |
| Current working estimate | $9,000,000 | $5,850,000 | $3,150,000 |
| Funding to date | $754,000 | $754,000 | $0 |
| Funds required to complete project | $8,246,000 | $5,096,000 | $3,150,000 |
Project Manager Steven A. Vriesen Click here to download a copy |