Hydroelectric plants constructed in Carbon County could save approximately 95,000 to 110,000 barrels of oil or more, annually, according to Lehighton Borough Manager Mortimer Smedley. He has been leading an all-out effort to realize his dream of having a hydroelectric dam built in the county.

Because of Smedley's efforts, Congressman Daniel J. Flood has authorized a study to investigate the potential for developing hydroelectric power in the Lehigh River Basin.