FRANKLIN, Tenn. (AP) - Improvements to the Harpeth River should be completed and the area ready for visitors by the end of next month.

Until July, a small metal and concrete dam near Franklin had backed up the river for two miles, creating a pool of drinking water for the city.

Harpeth River Watershed Association Director Dorie Bolze told The Tennessean (http://tnne.ws/TK2YlG) the dam also created a waterfall that fish couldn't get over. And it tore up the riverbanks and reduced oxygen in a portion of the river.

Today rushing water tumbles between limestone boulders and fish swim freely. A stair-step embankment of logs along the bank will soon be planted with native grasses, flowers and trees.

The dam's removal makes the Harpeth the longest free-flowing river in the state.

Information from: The Tennessean, http://www.tennessean.com

Copyright 2012 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.