The removal of two long-obsolete dams and other structures has reopened nearly 10 miles of the South Mayo River in Patrick County, restoring habitat, improving safety and expanding recreational access.
The Eco Ambassador Council announced the completion of the South Mayo River Structures Removal Project following more than a year of planning and about four weeks of construction.
Members of the council visited one of the sites March 21 after the Dan River Basin Association’s annual celebration in Stuart, getting a firsthand look at the changes.
The project was funded through a combination of private investment from the council, additional funding sources, in-kind contributions from Patrick County and Branch Civil, and volunteer labor.
At the center of the effort was the removal of two dams that had outlived their original purpose but continued to block the river’s natural flow.
The former Clark Power and Light Company dam, built in 1916 to supply electricity to the town of Stuart, stood about 4 feet tall and 55 feet long. Crews dismantled the structure and repurposed materials to stabilize the downstream riverbank.
George’s Mill dam, a roughly 140-year-old concrete structure measuring about 12 feet high and 140 feet long, posed safety risks and had been linked to multiple drownings. Its removal eliminated those hazards and restored the river channel.
Crews also removed two sets of railroad piers that had contributed to debris buildup, erosion and limited access.
Together, the removals reopened habitat for fish, including the state-threatened orangefin madtom, and created opportunities to reintroduce native mussel species.
The work was led by Louise Finger, a stream restoration biologist with the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources.
“Projects like this show what’s possible when science, collaboration and community commitment come together,” Finger said. “By removing these obsolete structures, we’re not only improving fish passage and restoring natural river processes, but also making the river safer and more accessible for people.”
The Dan River Basin Association has worked for more than five years to advance similar projects across the watershed.
“Seeing the South Mayo River flow freely again is incredibly rewarding,” said Anna Wheeler, the association’s recreation and stewardship manager. “This project not only restores critical habitat for native species, but also creates safer, more accessible opportunities for people to connect with the river. It’s a powerful reminder of what strong partnerships and community dedication can accomplish.”
The Eco Ambassador Council is made up of regional businesses focused on environmental stewardship and economic vitality in the Dan River region. Members include Carter Bank, Blair Construction, Clark Gas and Oil Co., Frith Construction, Hooker Furnishings, Intertape Polymer Group, Jones and DeShon Orthodontics, and Pickle & Ash Restaurant.
Chairman Tyler Carter said the project reflects what can be accomplished through partnerships.
“This effort reflects the power of partnership — bringing together local government, private industry, nonprofit organizations, technical experts and volunteers to create real change,” Carter said. We’re proud to invest in projects that strengthen both our natural resources and our communities.”
Michael Jones, Director of Global Energy & Sustainability of (IPG) Intertape Polymer Group, which became a member of the EAC in 2025 added, “We are proud to be a member of the Eco Ambassador Council and play a role in the South Mayo River Structures Removal Project in Stuart, Virginia. This project will significantly improve the water quality, habitat, and safety of the South Mayo River. We would like to thank the Dan River Basin Association, Eco Ambassador Council, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources, and the many other organizations and volunteers that helped bring this important project to completion.”
