The Connecticut River, among the most extensively dammed rivers in the United States, may soon be flowing at a more natural pace again.

A recently developed computer model could help dam managers coordinate the holding and releasing of water between the river’s 54 largest dams in an effort to balance human and natural needs.

It is the latest development in the emerging field of data-driven natural resource management, work made possible by recent advances in computing power.

Historically, the Connecticut River roared freely through New England’s wooded valleys. Teeming with fish, the river’s waters often overflowed its winding banks when snowmelt and rainfall combined during spring months.

Colonists began taming the 410-mile-long river soon after arriving from England. First, the forested valleys alongside the riverbanks were clearcut and converted into farmland. Starting in the 19th century, dams were added to prevent seasonal flooding, and to provide drinking water and hydropower to nearby towns.

Today there are over one thousand dams on the Connecticut and its tributaries. Full Article »