Remove the Neshaminy Weir Dam at Tyler State Park
Remove the Neshaminy Weir Dam at Tyler State Park
The Issue
The tragic death of Alec Campbell at the Neshaminy Weir dam in Tyler State Park underscores the urgent need for action. Neshaminy Weir dam is a centuries old low head dam. Low head dams, often referred to as "drowning machines," pose significant risks to those who venture near them. These structures create a hydraulic, or a recirculating current, which can trap and submerge even the most skilled swimmers.
In Pennsylvania alone, there are more than 2,000 low head dams, with many being unmarked or inadequately signed. Many dams were constructed during a time when industries like grist mills required the use of a water wheel. When those industries were abandoned the dams remained intact.
This calls for immediate intervention by relevant authorities to prevent further tragedies. Removing the Neshaminy weir dam will help protect future visitors at Tyler State Park.
Moreover, there's a pressing need to increase public awareness about the dangers of low head dams. At Wicked Water Ops, we are trying to do just that. Here, we have compiled a blog with additional information about the Neshaminy Weir dam.
By dismantling the Neshaminy weir dam and propagating awareness about the inherent dangers of these dams, we can save lives. The community, local representatives, and state officials must come together in this endeavor. We urge the authorities to prioritize the removal of this dam.
Sign this petition to honor Alec Campbell's memory and ensure the safety of everyone visiting Tyler State Park. Together, we can make a difference and prevent future tragedies.
Let's raise awareness and remove this death trap from Tyler State Park. It is long past time to get the job done.
Excellent article from phillyburbs.com
A pair of socks lay at the dam that took Campbell's life. Photo Credit: JD Mullane, Bucks County Courier Times
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The Issue
The tragic death of Alec Campbell at the Neshaminy Weir dam in Tyler State Park underscores the urgent need for action. Neshaminy Weir dam is a centuries old low head dam. Low head dams, often referred to as "drowning machines," pose significant risks to those who venture near them. These structures create a hydraulic, or a recirculating current, which can trap and submerge even the most skilled swimmers.
In Pennsylvania alone, there are more than 2,000 low head dams, with many being unmarked or inadequately signed. Many dams were constructed during a time when industries like grist mills required the use of a water wheel. When those industries were abandoned the dams remained intact.
This calls for immediate intervention by relevant authorities to prevent further tragedies. Removing the Neshaminy weir dam will help protect future visitors at Tyler State Park.
Moreover, there's a pressing need to increase public awareness about the dangers of low head dams. At Wicked Water Ops, we are trying to do just that. Here, we have compiled a blog with additional information about the Neshaminy Weir dam.
By dismantling the Neshaminy weir dam and propagating awareness about the inherent dangers of these dams, we can save lives. The community, local representatives, and state officials must come together in this endeavor. We urge the authorities to prioritize the removal of this dam.
Sign this petition to honor Alec Campbell's memory and ensure the safety of everyone visiting Tyler State Park. Together, we can make a difference and prevent future tragedies.
Let's raise awareness and remove this death trap from Tyler State Park. It is long past time to get the job done.
Excellent article from phillyburbs.com
A pair of socks lay at the dam that took Campbell's life. Photo Credit: JD Mullane, Bucks County Courier Times
28
The Decision Makers
Petition created on June 1, 2025