Background: Tower and Kleber dams operate on the Upper Black River in Northeastern Michigan and their license is set to expire on April 30, 2024. A decision to relicense or remove the dams will need to be made by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission and the dam owner, Nelson Turcotte of Tower Kleber Limited Partnership, within the next several years. Our clients, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources and the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians, asked us to conduct an analysis of the impacts of the dams and explore the range of issues that need to be considered in decision-making.
Project Purpose and Methods: For this analysis, we sought to understand: (1) the current ecological, economic, and social impacts of Tower and Kleber dams; (2) potential impacts of dam removal; (3) key stakeholders, concerns, and considerations to be included in the decision-making process; and (4) information and processes that should be incorporated moving forward. We reviewed published literature and interviewed members of identified stakeholder groups. We also held a large public meeting where we presented our preliminary findings and gathered input from attendees. Our meeting and this final report aim to provide our clients and other stakeholders with a baseline understanding of issues surrounding the dams as they begin the decision-making process regarding the dams’ future.
Findings: We determined that the dams are in satisfactory condition and produce expected amounts of electricity. They affect water conditions and habitat for many aquatic species, including lake sturgeon whose current spawning and nursery habitats limit natural reproduction. However, the dams do not have a significant impact on Black Lake water levels. We identified many public concerns that should be addressed moving forward, including pond-front property, fishing opportunities, recreation, and tribal rights. To address misconceptions and confusion about dam impacts, we recommend gathering additional site-specific data and ensuring all information is made publicly available. To help alleviate conflict surrounding the issue, we recommend that our clients and the dam owner clarify the decision-making process, acknowledge concerns and emotions, work directly with landowners, directly involve tribal nations, and develop stakeholder visions for future dam scenarios.