MANAWA, WI- Residents debated the future of the Manawa Mill Pond dam at the last City Council Meeting. While some advocated for the dam’s full reconstruction, others argued for its removal due to financial concerns.
Rebuilding the dam would require multiple studies from the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and input from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), given the dam’s hydroelectric functions. Even with all approvals, funding remains a challenge. Mayor Mike Frazier emphasized that without significant grants, the city may be unable to proceed with the project.
Supporters of the dam stressed its economic importance to the community.
To address community concerns, an alternative plan inspired by a recent project in Amherst was presented. The proposal includes transforming the dam area into a green space with pollinator gardens, walking trails, and ponds to preserve water frontage for local homeowners.
Mayor Frazier recently held a closed-door meeting with state Representatives Kevin Peterson and Rachael Cabral-Guevara to discuss potential state funding for the dam.
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