This morning (May 9), Indiana Michigan Power (I&M) initiated the process of raising the water level to its standard spring and summer operating level at the Elkhart Hydroelectric Plant.
Contracted crews have completed the installation of an impermeable material, known as Aquablock, and have safeguarded it with a layer of stone between the dam and the boat barrier.
All you need to know about this operation
- Indiana Michigan Power (I&M) aims to achieve normal operating levels by Memorial Day, but unforeseen issues may alter the schedule.
- I&M will raise water levels in 6-inch increments, followed by a 48-hour waiting period to assess if the water level stabilizes before raising levels again. This process will continue until the levels have been increased by a total of 2 feet, reaching the summer pool level.
- During this process, it might be necessary to lower water levels without prior notice. However, the levels will not drop below winter pool levels.
- I&M advises affected customers who have not yet placed boats and other watercraft in the river to consider waiting until all operations are completed.
- Safety is I&M’s highest priority. They will continue monitoring the dam and performing required maintenance to ensure the safety of the surrounding community.
Gene Sirca, Hydro Dam Safety Engineer, stated, “Everything is visible and accessible at the hydro plant, allowing people to observe the happenings while walking or fishing nearby. Our top priority is the safety of the public, both upstream and downstream. We maintain and rehabilitate the dam with the public’s well-being in mind.”
I&M’s Generation Dispatch team continuously monitors the Elkhart Hydroelectric Plant and our five other hydroelectric facilities around the clock. The hydroelectric mechanics are always prepared to respond, even during weekends and holidays, to ensure the facilities function as intended.