The dam functioned flawlessly over the past winter. This year the dam was closed April 16, 2019 shortly after ice out. This will raise the lake to the summer full pond level over about next two to three weeks depending on the weather.

As a reminder, to address seasonal changes the dam gate is opened to lower the water level on about October 15 (generally Columbus Day), and is closed again to raise the water level shortly after ice-out (between mid-April and early-May). This helps avoid shore damage from winter ice and protect loon nests in the spring. The water level will generally decrease/increase by about 18 inches over a two week period following the opening/closing of the dam gate. The dam is operated and maintained by the Watchic Lake Association dam committee. Click/touch here to read more about the Watchic Lake dam.