For more than 200 years, Readyville Dam has been positioned along the East Fork Stones River. Built in 1812, it once powered Readyville Mill, a busy center for grinding grain, sawing lumber, storing ice, and even generating electricity for the small rural community of Readyville. It helped shape the history of Cannon County—but the river and the community have changed a lot since then.
The mill was completely destroyed by a tornado in 2023. Now, Readyville Dam will be removed, giving the river a chance to return to its natural flow.
Restoring Balance
The East Fork Stones River provides drinking water, wildlife habitat, and opportunities for recreation. Over time, sections of the river have become impaired, and steep streambanks have added extra sediment to the water. By removing the dam to restore natural flow and stabilizing 1,200 feet of riverbank, this project will help bring the river back into balance—supporting cleaner water, stronger habitats, and more resilient landscapes for the future.
With funding from the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Tennessee Wildlife Federation and partners are working together to create a restoration plan for this privately-owned stretch of river that combines science with a simple goal: give the river a chance to thrive.
Why It Matters
A healthier river benefits everyone. Paddlers will find smoother, safer routs as they explore the East Fork’s scenic stretches. Wildlife like the smallscale darter, Brawley’s Fork crayfish, and freshwater mussels will once again have connected habitats to call home. And with cleaner water flowing downstream, communities that rely on the river for drinking water will see long-term benefits too.
A Look Ahead
This project is just the beginning of a new story for the East Fork Stones River. Soon, we’ll see the river flowing more naturally, streambanks lined with native vegetation, and habitats starting to recover.
The work ahead will take time, but the result will be a river that supports both people and wildlife for generations to come.
