Sweden plans to remove last dams to restore fish migration in Stångån river

Sundsvalls kommun is preparing to demolish the final remaining dams in the Stångån river south of Sundsvall, Sweden.

This project aims to remove migration barriers that have existed since the 1600s to allow fish and other aquatic species to move freely across a three-kilometer stretch. The restoration project involves a collaboration between Sundsvalls kommun, Torrsjö kraft, and the organization Sportfiskarna.

While six dams have already been removed, the municipality plans to complete the demolition of the last two dams by 2027. Project leader Sven-Åke Westman says the work will return the river to a state similar to its condition before humans began using it for hydropower during the 15th or 16th centuries. The removal will open up long stretches of spawning and growth areas for species such as trout and salmon.

Local authorities have already observed sea trout moving into the river as part of the ongoing restoration efforts. The team hopes to eventually re-establish fish populations all the way up to Torringen lake.