Thursday September 17, 2026
KRCR —
Federal regulators are seeking public input on a proposal to remove two PG&E-owned dams on the Eel River, a plan supporters say could bring significant ecological benefits while reshaping recreation for nearby communities.
The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission held a meeting after releasing a scoping document that outlines what the agency plans to study as it considers the dam removals. Ren Brownell, the Connectivity Campaign Manager for Caltrout, said she attended “in a personal capacity” and said the document is meant “to ensure that this is a safe and effective dam removal.”
Brownell said the meeting was “the public’s opportunity to speak their mind about what they thought about the document and share any thoughts or ideas about what they would like to see studied.” She added, “I am very supportive of this dam removal.”
Brownell said PG&E owns the two dams and that “ultimately they’re just not profitable anymore,” adding that “they haven’t generated power in five years.” She said PG&E tried to sell the dams and “they were put out for bid, and ultimately there was never any takers,” leading the utility to decide to remove them.