History
Maintenance and Monitoring
Maintenance and Monitoring
The Crystal Pond dam was acquired by the Association in 1989 from a local landowner. The Association owns and operates the earthen dam and concrete penstock that increases the water level of Crystal Pond by five feet and helps regulate the flow of water. The current depth of Crystal Pond is important as it prevents weed growth in a sign
The Crystal Pond dam was acquired by the Association in 1989 from a local landowner. The Association owns and operates the earthen dam and concrete penstock that increases the water level of Crystal Pond by five feet and helps regulate the flow of water. The current depth of Crystal Pond is important as it prevents weed growth in a significant portion of the lake and promotes recreational enjoyment of the pond. A consistent and reliable water level is also vital for our water monitoring program. Since 1989, Association volunteers have operated the penstock, controlled vegetation growth on the earthen dam, communicated with state regulators and documented the procedures and processes involved with maintaining a Class BB dam.
Maintenance and Monitoring
Maintenance and Monitoring
Maintenance and Monitoring
The dam committee performs bi-weekly checks of the dam including water level and observation for leaks or animal activity that could impair the dam operations.
Drawdown
Maintenance and Monitoring
Drawdown
Every October, the penstock is opened to begin the annual lake draw down. The drawdown helps ensure retaining walls, docks and foundations are protected as the lake freezes. The overall goal is to achieve a 30-inch drawdown before thick ice forms on the lake. Historically, the drawdown allowed for freezing of lake weeds which help deter
Every October, the penstock is opened to begin the annual lake draw down. The drawdown helps ensure retaining walls, docks and foundations are protected as the lake freezes. The overall goal is to achieve a 30-inch drawdown before thick ice forms on the lake. Historically, the drawdown allowed for freezing of lake weeds which help deter weed growth during the warmer months. Due to increasingly warm winters, the opening date of the penstock and full draw down are very weather dependent. When the long-range forecast suggests warm winter temperatures with rainfall, the water level is kept as high as possible to prevent shoreline erosion. As the long-range forecast suggest freezing temperatures and ice formation, the penstock is opened further to allow for a full draw down.