03/21/2024
My name is Tom Shoff and I am the President of the St. Joseph River Association, Inc. (SJRA)
Recently I was notified by my contact at Indiana & Michigan Power (IMP) that they would not be returning the river (the impoundment east of or behind the Johnson Street Dam) to the normal summer operating level. As most of you know IMP normally raises the river around mid-march.
Last year when contractors were working on the dam, they discovered some “seepage” that should not be occurring. When this was discovered, work was stopped. It should be noted that the work that was being done did not cause the issue. Several engineering firms were consulted and a “possible” solution was determined. Contractors intend to install aqueous blocks at the base of the dam, when exposed to water these blocks harden like concrete, once the contractors determine the seepage has stopped, they will cover the blocks with stone.
Work will begin on April first and it is hoped that it will be finished by the third week in May. IMP will then raise the river six inches and wait forty-eight hours and if no seepage is detected they will raise the river another six inches and wait again. This process will continue until the river is back to its normal summer level hopefully by Memorial Day.
This matter also impacts the Elkhart River Queen. Normally in May we “un-winterize” her and prepare for the season. The process of winterizing her is expensive and time consuming. The depth of the river would also impact the ability for our passengers to safely board her and also hinder navigation. Therefore, we have decided not to “un-winterize” her until we have confirmation the work on the dam is successful.
IMP has set up a line for you to call should you have any questions. 260-408-3724 or you may email them at [email protected] Project updates will also be available at www.indianamichiganpower.com/news.
I know how important our river is to all of us. IMP, I and the SJRA is recommending you wait to put in your docks and boats until the work is completed and is deemed successful. IMP has told me that the water level may need to be taken down even further than it is now.
Let’s all pray that the plan IMP has established will be successful and we can begin, while a bit later, a normal boating season.
Stay safe.
Sincerely,
Tom Shoff
President SJRA, Inc. & HERQ, Inc.
