Tara Lohan Discusses Her Book 'Undammed: Freeing Rivers and Bringing Communities to Life'

Lohan draws inspiration from various authors, including Robin Wall Kimmerer and Elizabeth Kolbert, who influenced her writing process. The book's central thesis is that while the U.S. has thousands of dams, many are obsolete or unsafe, necessitating a reevaluation of their existence. She highlights the positive impacts of dam removal, which include improved river restoration, public safety, water quality, economic benefits, and enhanced recreational opportunities.

Addressing concerns about water management after dam removals, Lohan explains that critical water needs are typically managed through engineered solutions. For instance, a 2020 dam removal on the Middle Fork of the Nooksack River allowed for a new water intake system, preserving the city of Bellingham's water source while restoring habitat for salmon. Similarly, a diversion dam on the Cuyahoga River was replaced by a pump system that supports water flow without blocking the river.

Lohan also discusses the importance of adjusting water supply strategies, such as using groundwater instead of river sources, as seen in her visit to Chest Creek in Pennsylvania. She believes there is potential for aquifer storage to mitigate the need for dams.

In recommendations for additional reading, Lohan mentions several important works that complement Undammed, including Amy Bowers Cordalis's The Water Remembers, Zak Podmore's Life After Deadpool, and Catherine Schmitt's The President’s Salmon, all of which delve into water issues relevant to her narrative.

Sharing her experience with the publishing process, Lohan notes that while developing a book proposal is challenging, finding a publisher that resonates with her work, like Island Press, allowed the process to progress smoothly. Her advice for those writing about water is to persevere, emphasizing the significance of storytelling in this critical field.