One notable issue discussed was the discovery of a leak in the dam, which was identified after an unusual amount of sand was observed in the brook area downstream. It was revealed that water was escaping through a hole on the dam’s right side, leading to sand dispersion. The trash rack, a component designed to prevent debris from entering the dam, was found to be clogged, exacerbating the leak issue. This blockage forced water to find alternative pathways, causing further complications.

Committee members discussed a temporary fix proposed by GZA, the engineering firm involved. The solution involves installing filter fabric along the dam’s face, topped with gravel and larger rocks, to mitigate the leak. This temporary fix aims to raise the lake’s water level again, pending approval from the Office of Dam Safety and resolution of regulatory hurdles posed by the Massachusetts EPA. The committee expressed frustration over delays due to these regulatory requirements, emphasizing the urgency of the situation.

The need for an environmental review was also debated. While the state’s Office of Dam Safety issued an emergency order that might bypass the need for such a review, the Massachusetts EPA interpreted the order as requiring a permit, thus necessitating an environmental study. Participants discussed the efficiency of conducting only one environmental study rather than two to avoid unnecessary costs and delays.

Concerns about the trash rack’s design were a focal point. It was noted that the existing design, made of rough rebar and positioned vertically, contributed to rapid debris accumulation. The committee members highlighted the importance of redesigning the trash rack to prevent future blockages and ensure proper water flow, which is critical for the dam’s structural integrity.

The estimated costs for the repairs were mentioned, with discussions hinting at figures in the range of half a million dollars. This raised further concerns about the financial implications of ongoing repairs and the necessity for proper planning to prevent a cycle of repeated maintenance.

In addition to the dam issues, the committee addressed ongoing beaver management challenges, particularly related to maintaining culverts. It was noted that previous management had faltered, leading to problems such as sinkholes. The highway department was expected to keep certain areas clear but had not done so in the past. A proposal was made for someone to volunteer to reach out to the highway department to clarify their plans for beaver management.

The issue of whether minor obstructions, like a few sticks, constituted a beaver dam requiring a permit revealed the gray areas in defining permissible actions under local regulations. There was a consensus on the necessity of proactive measures to prevent significant obstructions and potential flooding.

The committee also deliberated on its own structure and representation, particularly regarding the involvement of members from the Lake Wyola Association (LWA). Concerns were raised about the perspectives of those living around the lake versus those from other areas of the town who may not have a vested interest in the lake’s management. It was suggested that reducing LWA representation might disenfranchise those most engaged with the lake. The value of LWA’s involvement was emphasized, with members stressing the importance of their contributions to the committee’s work.

The conversation touched on historical context, referencing the committee’s formation in 1991, where the initial mission statement highlighted the lake’s multifaceted values for the community. There was discussion about the necessity of defining committee membership strictly, with some members questioning whether such a designation was needed at all. It was suggested that those familiar with the lake’s issues would naturally apply for committee positions.

A proposal was made to seek legal advice regarding the proposed membership structure to ensure compliance and inclusivity while addressing concerns over representation. The meeting concluded with a consensus to revisit the topic following legal clarification, with members reminded of the next scheduled meeting.