DamNation
This dynamic investigation into dam removal—including the Glines Canyon and Elwha Dams on Washington’s Olympic Peninsula—positions locals, scientists, politicians, and activists on all sides of the increasingly divisive issue as they battle for control of Earth’s greatest resource.
For centuries, humans have worked tirelessly to harness an imagined power over planet Earth. The industrial revolution spawned numerous examples of those efforts, and DamNation uncovers how intricately the engineering of dams has severely altered the landscapes, wildlife populations, and watersheds that surround the countless river systems across the United States. As the dam removal movement continues to gain traction, we’re seeing life restored to rivers and to the wild salmon, which now have the ability to return to the pristine spawning grounds they’ve been trying to reach for decades. Native populations have subsequently recovered invaluable folklore and tradition that was wiped away when the federal government altered the natural environment that existed for centuries before us. While stories are shared from both sides of this divisive issue, DamNation majestically inspires us to maintain a better connection to the wealth of our surrounding natural resources, a stronger respect for the ecosystems that are being tarnished because of our engineering pride, and a dedication to preserving our future by protecting the health of our rivers.
Director Biography
Ben Knight and Travis Rummel teamed together in 2004 to create a series of award-winning short films about fly-fishing. They created and operate a production company called Felt Soul Media based out of Colorado. Their 2007 film, Red Gold about the proposed Pebble Mine in Alaska’s Bristol Bay, was released to critical acclaim.
Sponsored by 4Culture, Seattle Office of Arts & Culture, Washington State Arts Commission, National Endowment for the Arts, Black Rapid Media, CityArts, New Belgium Brewing Company, Inc.