Final answer:
Frick lowered the South Fork Dam for aesthetic purposes, compromising its integrity. The importance of maintaining natural water flows is now recognized due to environmental concerns affecting biodiversity and water quality.
Step-by-step explanation:
Henry Clay Frick decided to lower the South Fork Dam, making it weaker, for aesthetic and landscaping purposes. The decision was based on the desire to make the area more appealing for the South Fork Fishing and Hunting Club's members, rather than for environmental or safety concerns. It's important to understand that dam operations can greatly impact the natural habitat, affecting the ecology and physical characteristics of rivers both upstream and downstream. Many aging dams are being reconsidered in the United States due to ecological concerns with the goal of restoring natural water flows, which can lead to increased biodiversity and improved water quality.