Augusta, GA
Lock and dam lawsuit could keep Ironman away in the future
The water levels of the river are dictated by the releases from Thurmond Dam. The Army of Corps of Engineers is looking to install a rock weir in place of the existing Lock and Dam that will be more environmentally friendly and allow certain species of fish to pass through.
Plaintiffs including the state of South Carolina and the city of Augusta says the weir would dramatically affect the useful purpose of the river, citing a simulation in which decreased water levels, left some boat docking areas on dry ground. If installed, it could also remove recreational opportunities like the Ironman event.