UPDATE: Engineers in Norway, Maine, are rushing to repair a dam that poses a serious risk of catastrophic failure, following alarming complaints about low water levels. Inspections revealed critical vulnerabilities in the dam linking Pennesseewassee Lake and Pennesseewassee Stream, raising urgent concerns for residents and recreational boaters.
The dam, constructed in 1935, experienced inspections after citizens reported extremely low water levels over the summer. Although no significant leaks were detected, engineers identified a faulty spillway and other structural issues that could lead to disaster during high-water events, particularly with spring runoff approaching.
Bancroft Construction Corp. of South Paris has been engaged to address these vulnerabilities, with repairs commencing in October 2023. Over a three-week period, the construction team fixed leaking timber boards and reinforced concrete beams at an initial cost of approximately $91,000. The final expenses will be confirmed upon invoice receipt.
“This is a critical intervention to ensure the gates do not fail during high water,” stated Jeffery Campbell, interim Town Manager, emphasizing the urgency of the repairs. However, he cautioned that the repairs will not significantly alleviate ongoing concerns about low water levels for local residents and boaters who have faced challenges throughout the summer.
“Community members have reported seeing low water levels and potential leaks,” said Sarah Carter-Hill, vice chair of the Norway Select Board. Although the inspections confirmed leakage was not the cause of the low levels, the extreme drought conditions played a pivotal role in exposing the dam’s vulnerabilities.
The unusual low water levels allowed engineers to pinpoint specific failure points, making repairs more accessible and timely. The repairs were executed in two phases: the first addressing boards visible above the waterline, followed by underwater dam house boards that required advanced sealing techniques.
Campbell noted that at least one dam board was severely damaged, raising the risk of failure. “A failure during a spring melt could increase water flow over the dam, but the main concrete structure remains sound,” he assured residents.
The heightened awareness from concerned citizens has accelerated the timeline for these repairs, which had been planned for some time. “The town was already aware of the need for repairs due to ongoing issues,” Carter-Hill explained.
Despite the challenges posed by drought conditions, the low lake levels provided an unexpected opportunity for timely repair work. Typically, crews would need to install temporary cofferdams to manage water flow during repairs, but this was not necessary due to the current lake conditions.
Looking ahead, Campbell indicated that the town is also implementing measures to reduce leakage during dry months, including the use of bark mulch around the dam.
Maintaining appropriate water levels is a delicate balance, according to Sal Girifalco, president of the Lake Association of Norway. “If we misjudge the water levels, flooding can occur, or the lake may remain low during dry spells,” he cautioned.
As repairs continue, local officials are urging residents to remain patient while they work to mitigate risks and enhance the dam’s integrity. This urgent situation highlights the ongoing challenges of managing water resources in the community.
Stay tuned for further updates as Norway officials continue to monitor and address the dam’s condition and its impact on local residents.
