The Leavittsburg Dam removal that took place in the fall of 2025 is still raising concerns and hurting business, according to one local business owner.

David Shaffer, owner of Burg Bait and Tackle and a Leavittsburg resident of 65 years, says that the aftermath of the dam removal on the Mahoning River has caused a hindrance and concern for customers and members of the community.

"I could think of better things to do with $4,000,000 than to take out a dam that really doesn't make a difference," Shaffer said.

As the owner of Burg Bait and Tackle, Shaffer says that he has taken "a hit, big time," due to the park's closure, the dam's removal and construction in the area. 

"If you go up by the waterfalls, they have great big giant sludge and muck there, and people are saying it's starting to smell," Shaffer said. "When it's raining, you see a film, like an oil film, going into the river from the contaminants that are in it."

The dam was owned by the Trumbull County MetroParks, and its removal was up for debate for months leading up to the decision.

Previously, MetroPark officials deemed the structure a drowning hazard and environmental concern, while Warren Township Trustees had raised objections, citing the potential for erosion and property damage downstream once the dam is removed.

Shaffer says that it is no longer possible for boats or canoes to use the river due to log jams, which is also affecting the fish population. He said that the area is "an environmental disaster right now."

"A lot of people said they don't even want to invite their friends over anymore," Shaffer said. "There's nothing to go boating on and their backyard, which was nice and went right up to the river, now it comes up to 7, 8 or 9 foot drop."

Being a lifelong resident of the area, Shaffer states that this is the first time in his life he has ever seen logs above the water.