UPDATE: Urgent repairs are now underway at the dam connecting Pennesseewassee Lake and Pennesseewassee Stream in Norway, Maine, following alarming inspections that revealed serious structural vulnerabilities. These repairs are essential to avert a potential catastrophic failure during high-water events, as engineers identified a faulty spillway that posed significant risks.
The decision to act comes after a surge of complaints about unusually low water levels over the summer prompted engineers to investigate the dam. Although they confirmed that there was no significant leakage contributing to the decline, the low water levels exposed critical issues that could have gone unnoticed had water levels remained high.
In an expedited response, Bancroft Construction Corp. began repairs on October 1, 2023, at an initial cost of $91,000. The project, which involves fixing leaking timber boards and reinforcing concrete beams, is critical to ensuring that the dam’s gates will function properly during the forthcoming spring runoff.
Interim Town Manager Jeffery Campbell emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, “The repairs will ensure that the gates will not fail during high water.” However, residents and recreational boaters in Norway Lake should brace for continued low water levels, as the repairs will not significantly improve conditions in the immediate future.
Concerned citizens had been calling town officials, worried about the lake’s low levels and signs of leaking in the dam. Sarah Carter-Hill, vice chair of the Norway Select Board, noted, “The engineers determined that leakage was not the cause of the lake’s low water levels.” Instead, the extreme lack of rain this past summer was the primary factor.
The timely completion of these repairs is crucial, especially since one of the dam’s boards was so damaged that it might not withstand the pressures of spring melt. Campbell reassured that while the dam’s main concrete structure is in good condition, failure of the faulty spillway could have resulted in uncontrolled water flow.
Repairs were completed in two phases, with initial work focusing on boards above the waterline, followed by underwater components. The low water levels allowed for easier access to these vital repairs, making it an ideal time for the construction crew to work without needing extensive measures to divert water.
Carter-Hill highlighted that while drought conditions have frustrated property owners, they inadvertently facilitated the repair process. “It made for perfect timing to do the repairs,” she said, indicating that the town had been planning these repairs for years, and community concerns expedited the timeline.
Additionally, Campbell announced ongoing efforts to mitigate leakage during dry months, including the use of bark mulch. The lake’s water levels are governed by a consent agreement between the Norway Lakes Association and the town, complicating management efforts.
Sal Girifalco, president of the Lake Association, remarked on the challenges faced in maintaining optimal water levels, stating, “It’s a very challenging operation to keep the water levels right.” He emphasized the delicate balance required to prevent flooding while also addressing low water concerns.
As repairs continue, community focus remains on ensuring the dam’s integrity for the future. The town of Norway is committed to addressing these long-standing issues and improving conditions for residents and recreational users alike.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story as the situation unfolds.
