Highland Dam Removal Creating New Concerns

The partial demolition of the Highland Dam has caused new problems in the West Fork River, including dropping water levels and exposed sewer lines.

Bill Hoover, general manager of Greater Harrison Public Services, tells the Exponent Telegram that the department has been monitoring water levels since April. He says he’s never seen the water level this low.

While there hasn’t been any damage to the exposed sewer lines, Hoover says it’s possible. Freezing temperatures and heavy rains can both cause line breakage.

A sewer line break would subsequently contaminate the West Fork River.

Clarksburg Water Board President Paul Howe says the problems should be addressed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and that neither the Water Board nor Greater Harrison Public Works should be liable for the cost of repairs.

The Fish and Wildlife Service couldn’t be reached for comment.