Full Notification

August 14, 2010


News Statement

From: Roger Garner, Midland County Office of Emergency Management
(989) 633-1012

Re: Sanford Lake Levels


Due to concerns over water seepage into the dike at Sanford Dam, Boyce Hydro, LLC (owner of the dam) in conjunction with engineers from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) have determined that a gradual lowering of Sanford Lake levels is necessary. Boyce Hydro intends to lower the lake approximately 3 inches per day until lake levels have been lowered by 3 to 4 feet. The exact amount the lake level will need to be lowered will be determined by how well the dike dries out over the coming days. It is estimated that it could be the first week of October before lake levels are returned to normal after repairs have been made.
The Midland County Office of Emergency Management has been primarily concerned with the safety of the dike. Actions being taken by Boyce Hydro are appropriate for the situation and an emergency has not been declared nor is one expected to be.
A press release is expected to be forthcoming from Boyce Hydro to further explain the situation.