JAMESTOWN, N.D. (NewsDakota.com) – A special meeting was held Wednesday night to answer questions regarding ongoing efforts following an emergency declaration from the City of Jamestown and Stutsman County.
Jamestown Mayor Dwaine Heinrich informed the crowd that steps were being taken as they worked with the US Army Corps of Engineers on proposed increased releases from the two reservoirs.
Stutsman County Emergency Manager Jerry Bergquist stated that releases this fall were going steady until the the heavy rainfalls in September and recent snowfall in October.
Matt Nelson, Water Control Manager with the Army Corps of Engineers, reports that they were well on their way to meeting the proper stage for winter storage, but the rains forced them to make changes.
Allen Schlag, Hydrologist for the National Weather Service, stated that in 125 years of recording data, there has never been a more wet September than in 2019.
Schlag pointed out that more precipitation could be possible even this weekend.
Nelson pointed out that they were looking to increase flows to a combined 2,400 cfs in order to prepare for winter storage.
Nelson pointed out they lower levels for the winter for a variety of reasons.
City engineers report that sandbagging efforts are currently underway to help alleviate rising waters downstream. Interstate Engineer Darrell Hornbuckle says around 65,000 sandbags will be filled and placed in areas near Klaus Park, the Townhomes near Taco Bell, the Ice House Dam area, and 17th Avenue, Southwest along the Pipestem.
Other areas are being looked at that may also need to be sandbagged.
The city estimates they’ll have sandbags ready for distribution by Friday and hope to have all designated areas sandbagged before Tuesday, October 22nd.
Flows will begin to ramp up once sandbags are in place.
Those who have concerns about potential flooding on their property are encouraged to call Jamestown City Hall at 701-252-5900 and they will send crews to assess the property. After hours, you can contact Stutsman County Dispatch at 701-252-1000.
