After lengthy discussions, the Maitland Valley Conservation Authority board has decided to begin the process of decommissioning the damaged Gorrie Dam.
MVCA Chair David Turton said the decision came down to a number of key factors including cost.
"The available provincial funding; there isn't any. But I think the biggest one was likely that it's just a recreational dam," he said.
Turton said the dam doesn't play a role in flood control. He also says there need to be a number of studies done alongside the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry first, making the decommissioning of the dam likely a lengthy process. He also says removing the dam will help wildlife and overall river health.
"It would be better for the river. Decommissioning it will, from an environmental perspective, improve the health of the river and provide better fish and wildlife habitat," said Turton.
Turton said they want to work with the public on improving the conservation area prior to removing the dam.
"We realize that people go there every day and the dam's been there for a long time," he said. "We need to look after our asset there."
Cleanups and removal of dead trees have already taken place at the conservation area.