Under a new project, a cofferdam will divert 15% of Niagara Falls that flows over American territory to the Canadian side for five to ninths months to build a bridge. The free-flowing year round water of the Niagara River is a significant bird area for breeding and migration. Experts are examining the potential damages that will be caused if a part of the Falls is dried up for construction purposes. New York state experts assembled a report that states, “The project would not cause any long-term significant impacts on fish and wildlife.” More studies will be conducted to determine the environmental effects should part of the Falls be halted. Project funding also remains an issue.