IDWR extends Outlet Dam construction
An aerial view of construction on a permanent Breakwater structure on Priest Lake. In the last year, the Idaho Water Resource Board has invested $5 million in the Priest Lake Improvement Project to create a new, permanent Breakwater structure, deepen the Thorofare channel, and add 6 inches of height to the outlet dam.
(Photo courtesy STEVE STUEBNER/Idaho Water Resource Board)
PRIEST RIVER — Construction on Outlet Dam has been extended for another year, Idaho Department of Water Resources officials decided Friday.
Officials said the extension is needed to prevent lateral water flow, which causes erosion.
"[Water] is moving sideways instead of from top to bottom,” said Neeley Miller, senior resource planner at the Idaho Department of Water Resources on Monday. “The water is actually getting in below, and then moving up, under, and then moving down and coming back out.”
According to Miller, it is unclear what caused the abnormal water flow, but Miller said that they have identified a solution to the problem.
A concrete apron is being built below the dam in order to improve the dam’s structural integrity in order to extend its lifespan.
In this circumstance, an apron is constructed to prevent erosion underneath the dam, usually constructed with loose rock or concrete.
Construction on the dam has been going on for two winter seasons. Construction can only take place during the winter months for a couple of reasons, not only is it safer for the workers, but winter pool levels on Priest Lake reduce the amount of water that needs to be diverted around the construction area — meaning that the winter months are the only reasonable time to carry out the necessary repairs.
In the next few weeks, IDWR will be notifying the nearby residents of the extension, a notification that is expected to be less-than-welcome.
"I don't think anyone was aware that it was going to go into a third season yet. I'm sure the folks around the dam won't be that — thrilled,” Miller said.
The sentiment was echoed by Dale Van Stone, Idaho Water Resource Board member and chair of the Bonner Soil & Water Conservation District.
"Folks who live close to the dam, I'm sure they are a little tired of the construction being there and stuff that goes on on a daily basis during the winter months.”
According to Van Stone, the repairs are necessary to the dam’s longevity.
"The dam is aging. We knew we had to do some structural work on it. ... We've gotta get it done. We can't go backwards on this, we have to do it the right way," Van Stone said on Monday.
Even though construction has been happening for quite some time, Outlet Dam is still structurally safe and sound for those who live and recreate in the area, according to Miller.
"The dam is completely safe, this is just — you don't want water moving around under there over the long term, so we wanted to make sure we were doing things right,” Miller said. “But we can easily operate the dam as needed until we get this fixed.”
Both officials are resolute that the work is worth the wait.
“We want to get this fixed so the dam can have a longer life,” Miller said.
Those who wish to contact the Idaho Department of Water Resources can do so by going to their website at idwr.idaho.gov, or by calling at 208-762-2800.