From Low-Head Dam to Destination River: Engineering Waterways for Recreation, Tourism, and Economic Vitality
Description: A once-dangerous river transformed into a vibrant destination: this project replaces a hazardous dam with engineered whitewater, restoring ecology, enhancing safety, and fueling tourism. Blending hydraulic innovation with recreation and environmental design, it proves rivers can drive economic vitality while reconnecting communities to dynamic, accessible waterways.
Author: Kevin Kruse
Author Bio: Kevin Kruse is a Senior Project Manager in the Water Resources Engineering Department at JEO Consulting Group, Inc. During his 25 years plus at JEO, he has helped clients foster a safer and more resilient relationship with natural water resources. This has included hydrologic & hydraulic evaluations, design and construction administration of improvements to reduce flood risk and make communities safer. Kevin holds a Bachelor of Science and Master of Engineering from the University of Nebraska at Lincoln. He is a licensed Professional Engineer in Nebraska, Iowa, Kansas, South Dakota and Wyoming. Kevin has presented at local, regional and national conferences and is a regional expert in urban stormwater master planning and implementation.