St. Croix River shows returning alewives and blueback herring following dam removal

Wildlife groups report that alewife and blueback herring numbers in the St. Croix River have risen after the 2021 removal of a landmark dam, with summer 2023 monitoring showing about a threefold increase in alewives and noticeable gains for blueback herring in upper stretches.

The St. Croix River is showing early signs of ecological recovery after a landmark dam was removed in 2021. Wildlife advocacy groups and monitoring teams intensified surveys in the summer of 2023 and reported increases in alewife and blueback herring. The restoration aimed to improve fish passage and restore habitat that had been fragmented by the dam. Local organizations, state and federal partners, and research institutions have been involved in monitoring and analysis. Key findings: - The dam removal was completed in 2021 and reopened previously blocked habitat along the St. Croix River, which flows between Minnesota and Wisconsin. - Summer 2023 monitoring reported about a threefold increase in alewife numbers compared with pre-restoration data. - Blueback herring showed a noticeable comeback, especially in upper stretches of the river that were formerly obstructed. - The restoration effort was led by a coalition of local wildlife organizations and received state and federal support, with universities and research institutions assisting monitoring and analysis. - Local business owners and community members reported renewed interest in recreational fishing and ecotourism; a local tackle shop owner was quoted noting likely economic benefits. - Conservation biologists described the return of these forage fish as a positive step for the river’s food web and overall biodiversity. Summary: The reported increases in alewives and blueback herring point to early ecological gains following the 2021 dam removal, with monitoring in 2023 documenting measurable recovery. Ongoing long-term monitoring and expanded research by conservation groups and academic partners are planned to track progress and inform future management.