Grand Rapids begins project to bring back river rapids lost to dams and industry

 After nearly two decades of planning, construction is underway in downtown Grand Rapids to restore the historic rapids that gave the city its name. The first phase will remove four low-head dams and replace them with natural rock features designed to improve fish passage, habitat and river access. The project also includes measures to protect mussels and control invasive sea lampreys. After nearly two decades of planning, construction is underway in downtown Grand Rapids to restore the historic rapids that gave the city its name. The first phase will remove four low-head dams and replace them with natural rock features designed to improve fish passage, habitat and river access. The project also includes measures to protect mussels and control invasive sea lampreys.