FirstLight Completes Repairs to the Turners Falls Dam Bascule Gate #2

On July 8, FirstLight safely and successfully completed repairs to the Turners Falls Dam Bascule Gate #2 and began refilling the Turners Falls Impoundment by early evening. After drawing down the impoundment in the early hours of July 8 and reaching river levels necessary for the FirstLight team to safely access the gate, personnel entered the gate, investigated the issue, implemented repairs, and completed testing to ensure the hydraulic system and gate were functioning properly. FirstLight then began refilling the impoundment and estimates that the river will return to typical levels in one to two days depending on inflow.

FirstLight appreciates the many partners who offered consultation, support, and assistance as we navigated this issue, planned the repair, communicated with the community, and completed the drawdown and repair effort. The support from state and federal agencies, local officials, first responders, environmental groups, marinas, local news sources and so many more, was invaluable in FirstLight’s ability to swiftly, safely, and successfully complete the repair and begin returning the river to typical summer conditions. We also extend our thanks to the community for their patience and understanding as we navigated and resolved this unprecedented challenge.