Monday, May 07, 2018

Killer Dams

In 2011, the largest dam removal in U.S. history began on the Elwha River in Washington State.

This is incredibly surprising, especially since both of the dams were hydroelectric power stations, which provided much needed natural energy to surrounding communities. It took over 3 years to complete the project, and was deemed a success by local citizens and conservationists. This dam existed for nearly 100 years but ended up doing much more harm than good.

It is amazing to me how a well-meaning dam can destroy so much life. Although the water was able to be controlled, the net effect of killing almost every type of fish species, nearly destroyed the region's ecosystem.

These "Control Dams" are often constructed in churches; unfortunately with great intent, cost, and purpose. Yet these tools, systems, or rules put in place to HELP, as time passes, become obstacles that HURT. Life is snuffed out, generations of fish (Jesus would use this analogy too) are often lost to concrete structures that will endure long after those who created them have passed on.

Many dams are incredibly helpful and necessary. Distinguishing between a life-giving structure and life-taking structure is not by reviewing their intended purposes, because every dam is built for a noble cause. Rather, we should probably stop staring at the impressive colossal formations we built 20 years ago and analyze the effects of these structures. In other words... let's get downstream and see how the fish are doing.

Remember not the former things, nor consider the things of old. Behold, I am doing a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert.
Isaiah 43:18-19