Waupun’s Harris Mill Pond leaking to low levels

City of Waupun leaders have announced the pond in Harris Mill Park in the city is draining due to a leak in the dam there. The pond is created by the dam located on the Rock River.

The dam has a bypass valve that is opened during heavy rains to avoid flooding, but after the pond was noticed to be low, inspectors opened and closed the valve thinking there may have been an obstruction in the valve causing the water to leak. After the valve was closed however, water continued draining from the pond.

The Wisconsin DNR was contacted and has instructed the city that the best and safest way to determine needed repairs is to let the water level continue to drop. Once water levels reach a level that allows crews to assess the problem, a plan will be developed for repair.

When asked about any impacts to fish in the river, officials were unable to answer what effects this could have, stating they will continue working with the DNR on a plan and will provide an update when more information is available.