Free the Falls

Nothing says “surprise” like learning the United States Geological Survey (USGS) is on its way to help! That’s right — the USGS is big on fish research, and that research extends to the Gorge Dam. In this episode, Mike and Elaine catch up with USGS Research Biologist Dr. Matthew Acre (Matt) and discuss the fascinating ways fish respond to environmental cues. Matt shares insights from his research on fish spawning, migration patterns, behavior and more. Listen to find out whether a dam can alter the genetic makeup of fish, why some biologists need gym memberships, which fish monitoring methods Matt’s team uses and how this relates to the dam section of the river. 

For more, visit bit.ly/freethefalls

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Ohio Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) isn’t like those other state EPAs, they’re a cool state EPA. After all, they helped Ohio become a leader in water quality assessment!

Mike and Elaine are joined by special guest Bill Zaweski, Ohio EPA environmental supervisor of the Division of Surface Water. Bill explains why water should have integrity and how the Gorge Dam compromises the Cuyahoga River’s. Learn the Tale of Two Fish, find out which one of our cohosts ruffled Bill’s feathers and why, and explore the negative ripple effects of keeping the dam in place — for fish, humans and everything in between. If you're curious about how Ohio became a water quality trailblazer, this episode is a must-listen! 

For more, visit bit.ly/freethefalls 

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In our premier episode, cohosts Mike and Elaine are joined by special guest Lisa King, executive director of Summit Metro Parks. Mike and Elaine recall their first meeting (hint: it involved a dam) and Lisa shares how an undesirable job eventually led to a career with the park district (thanks, dad!).

What the heck is a MOAD? Why didn’t the Gorge Dam live up to its dam potential? Why not just let the sediment flow down the river? Tune in for answers and discover the history and challenges of the Gorge Dam, collaborative efforts and the cost to remove it, and the vision for its future. 

Free the Falls website: bit.ly/freethefalls

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Where's our dam host? In Alaska! While he's out exploring the Land of the Midnight Sun, Summit Metro Parks Biologist Jason Whittle shares a sneak peak of what's to come. Free the Falls premieres next month!