Waterloom Dam in New Ipswich has been closed in anticipation of scheduled maintenance to address a headgate assembly that has been rusted shut. As part of the work, the water in the pond will be drawn down, starting on Aug. 1
The drawdown process is expected to take several weeks, depending on weather conditions, as water levels are gradually lowered to allow for safe access and repairs. Once the water level has been sufficiently reduced, maintenance work on the dam will begin and is anticipated to take approximately four to six weeks to complete. Water levels in the pond will drop to approximately the same extent as during last year’s emergency dam work. Once maintenance is completed, pond levels are expected to return naturally over time with the help of seasonal precipitation.
The New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services has been notified and is aware of the upcoming work.
Members of the public are reminded to stay off the dam property during this time. The area will be an active and potentially hazardous construction site and is also private property.