Amazing Time-Lapse Video Shows Lake Emptied After Dam Removal

For 98 years, the 2-story hydro-power Condit Dam on White Salmon River helped power thousands of homes in the Pacific Northwest while creating a serene lake. The dam was dramatically breached Wednesday to allow an increased flow of water to restore the river to fish and other aquatic organisms, and National Geographic has posted an amazing time-lapse video of the lake's draining:

Another video of the draining from American Rivers:

According to Indian Country, the demolition was "a happy day for tribal members, the salmon, and for the White Salmon River itself." According to the AP, the dam removal cost around $32 million, while the improvements to the nearly century-old would have cost $100 million. Major demolition to the damn took place this week, and the rest of the dam is going to be taken down in the ensuing months. Studies that showed dam removal could be cost-effective began 14 years ago, and National Geographic reports that environmental organizations helped lead to the final moment.