SHAWANO, WI – Emergency efforts overnight appear to have stabilized conditions at the Balsam Row Road Dam, as crews continue working to manage high water levels and protect critical infrastructure.
According to an update from the Shawano County Sheriff’s Office, berms constructed overnight are holding and functioning as intended, helping to prevent further damage despite elevated water levels from recent heavy rainfall. Officials say water has now risen enough to cover the concrete platform portion of the dam, highlighting the ongoing concern as conditions remain volatile.
Crews returned to the site early Wednesday morning and are actively working to remove debris upstream of the dam. Officials say clearing that debris is key to improving water flow and reducing pressure on the structure as water continues to move through the area.
The Sheriff’s Office also credited the Shawano County Highway Department for its rapid overnight response, calling their work critical in protecting the dam. Without those efforts, officials say both embankments on either side of the dam could have failed, potentially leading to the structure being washed out entirely.
Authorities say they will continue to monitor the situation closely and provide updates as conditions evolve, urging residents to stay informed as high water levels persist across the region.
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