The Woolwich Board of Selectmen heard an update on Monday evening, Nov. 3, concerning the replacement of a problematic valve at the Nequasset Dam and Fish Ladder.

The valve is located about six feet from the top of the dam. The valve needs to be opened for the next alewives season, but it is currently uncertain if the valve will open because of needed repairs.

Speaking at Monday’s meeting, Fish Commissioner Bill Potter provided a concise summary of the problem.  

“The existing valve, because of age and wear, doesn’t operate properly,” Potter told the board. “It needs some short term repairs to allow us to get through another season.”

Alewives are a migratory fish that use the environment of the fish ladder, lake and dam when they spawn each May. Winter months would not be the best time to replace the valve.

One suggestion was to put on some type of split collar on as a temporary repair for the next six months.

Board Chairman David A. King, Sr. was in favor of the proposed near-term solution and full replacement of the valve in June or July of 2015.

“Waiting until after the alewives season would give us time to go out to bid,” he added.  

By unanimous vote, the board gave Potter permission to speak with Atlantic Mechanical, which has been engaged in construction at the fish ladder to see if they might be able to complete the short term repairs. Potter will also contact the Bath Water District to advise them of the proposed repairs.