Request to DNR

TO: DNR Legal Counsel
DATE: 1.10.05
TIME: 3:12pm

I am writing on behalf of the Rock-Koshkonong Lake District to memorialize our conversation earlier this afternoon regarding the trash rack replacement underway at the Indianford Dam.
The trash racks on the powerhouse end of the dam required replacement.

The District contracted for fabrication of replacement racks, which were recently delivered to the site.

District Chair Brian Christianson communicated with Sue Josheff by email to let her know that the District would need to temporarily close the wicket gates in order to do the replacement work. By responsive email, Sue advised the District Chair that the work could be undertaken. (I have not seen this echange of email. I understand that Sue referenced an NR code section and indicated that the operation should be done so as not to exceed level requirements under the water level order.

When the District's contractor removed the old racks and lowered the replacement racks into position, they discovered that the new racks could not "seat" properly due to an unknown obstruction. The District hired divers who investigated today and learned that rip-rap placed to secure the old racks had settled into locations that interfere with seating the replacement racks.

The settled rip rap is too heavy for hand removal by divers. The District is working diligently to devise a means to remove the rip rap by use of mechanical equipment and is aiming to get that done as soon as possible.

Depending on how fast the settled riprap can be removed, it is possible that the water level will elevate above the authorized maximum level. The District will take all necessary measures to complete these repairs and return the wicket gates to open position when the new racks are installed.

You requested that the District communicate by email with Sue Josheff and Ken Johnson to advise them of this situation.

I am sending a copy of this message to Ken, Sue and the District Chair for the record.

Please confirm that the Department recognizes that any increase in the water level as a result of this repair is an unavoidable consequence of the repairs and does not require any action from the District other than promptly completing the needed rip rap removal, rack installation and re-opening of the gates.

Thank you for your assistance.