Milburnie Dam - November 5, 2017
This picture was taken as the water level of the Neuse River was being lowered in preparation for the removal of the dam.
After more than 150 years at this spot, the Milburnie Dam is being removed. It started life powering a paper mill, then became a hydroelectric plant to power Raleigh's street cars, then a gristmill and finally a hydroelectric plant (again) before being decommissioned. It has been a fun fixture to see on the Neuse River Trail but its time has come. Its removal will improve water quality, aquatic environment and increase wildlife habitats.
While I completely understand why it is being removed, I'm really hoping they leave some part of the structure behind if only to serve as a reminder.
