The Nature Conservancy plans to restore about 150 acres of freshwater wetlands at Sunken Meadow in Surry County, Virginia, and reconnect 21 miles of streams to the James River.The project will remove a dam and its pond. The dam has been in the landscape for more than a century, and years of silt have put pressure on the creek, wetlands, and wildlife habitat.The restored landscape could support cleaner water and a wider variety of plants, fish, birds, and other animals. It may also create future opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and fishing across the nearly 700-acre property.The Nature Conservancy says the plans grew from almost a year of conversations with nearby residents, including open houses, a field trip, mailed information, and a final community meeting on August 19.Studies, engineering work, and permits are expected to take about two years before the dam removal is complete.