I&M: Dam repairs complete

ELKHART — Indiana Michigan Power (I&M) on Thursday announced it has completed raising the water upstream of the Elkhart Hydroelectric Plant on the St. Joseph River to its normal spring and summer level.

The annual process was delayed due to ongoing maintenance work on the dam that began in the spring and was necessary in order to raise the water levels.

“We understand that the delay had the potential to affect those who rely on the reservoir for everything from recreational enjoyment to economic development opportunities,” said Katie Davis, I&M vice president of external affairs and customer experience. “We appreciate the crews who have been working six days a week since the project began to meet our goal timeline. We also want to thank the Elkhart community for their patience as we worked as quickly and safely as possible to complete this project.”

Maintenance work began in early April with the goal of being completed by Memorial Day. In advance of the maintenance process, I&M cautioned affected customers who had not already put boats and other watercraft in the river to consider waiting until work was completed.

I&M will continue monitoring the dam throughout the summer pool period, Davis said. There is still the potential that it might be necessary to lower water levels later. I&M said it would continue to keep customers updated on any next steps related to work around its hydroelectric facility.

I&M runs the plant in accordance with its license issued by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission. The Elkhart Hydroelectric Plant has been owned and operated by I&M since 1913. It is one of six run-of-river hydroelectric plants on the St. Joseph River. Combined, I&M’s six hydroelectric facilities generate more than 22 megawatts of electricity – enough to power 15,000 homes a year.