FirstLight Statement on Public Safety During the Turners Falls Impoundment Drawdown

Repairs to FirstLight’s Turners Falls Dam Bascule Gate #2 will commence early next week, requiring a drawdown of the Turners Falls Impoundment that is likely to beach boats and docks along the river. FirstLight is making every effort to maintain water levels through this weekend to allow boat and dock owners to remove or adjust their vessels and structures ahead of the drawdown, commencing early next week. Currently, the drawdown is scheduled to begin at approximately 2 AM on Tuesday, July 8, though the exact schedule is weather-dependent.

FirstLight expects that boat-based recreation and navigation on the river will be significantly inhibited for the duration of the drawdown and associated repair work. The company has consulted with state and local public safety officials and urges community members and recreation users to avoid the river during the drawdown, as the riverbed will be wet, presenting a sinking hazard. 

At this time, FirstLight expects the work will take 1-5 days, though it may take longer for the river to return to typical levels should the flows remain low, as they are now. Updates on the project will be provided via FirstLight’s Newsroom: https://firstlight.energy/news/