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Parks director flags Wolf River dam generator issue, ash‑tree removals and sturgeon habitat work
Summary
Staff reported a Wolf River dam generator failure upstream that could cause unstable winter water levels, outlined ash‑tree mortality and wood‑chip disposal options, and said DNR staff have proposed larger riprap to improve sturgeon spawning habitat along the river.
Parks staff reported several operational items on Jan. 7, including a reported generator failure at an upstream Wolf River dam, widespread ash tree mortality and a DNR recommendation to place larger riprap in parts of the river to improve sturgeon spawning habitat.
These items matter because fluctuating water levels can damage shoreline infrastructure and affect winter ice safety; the ash‑tree die‑off will generate large volumes of wood to manage; and sturgeon‑habitat improvements could require coordination with the Wisconsin DNR.
Ginger said Shawano County reported a generator failure at the Balsam Roll/Wolf River dam above Shawano Lake and that dam operators and the DNR were meeting to assess the impact; she said the county posted a warning that shifting water levels could make ice unsafe. John told the committee the exact magnitude of downstream fluctuations was uncertain and urged property owners to document shorelines if they are concerned. Staff noted that repeated fluctuations in winter could lift and refreeze shoreline ice, potentially stressing concrete seawalls and other bank structures.
On ash trees, staff warned of widespread ash mortality along the river corridor and said the city will need a plan to remove dead trees and manage resulting wood chips. Staff discussed multiple disposal options: selling firewood by lot sale or sealed bid, hiring a wood‑processing contractor to produce firewood for resale, giving chips away to residents, or contracting grinding and removal. The committee discussed quarantine and movement rules and said DNR guidance has relaxed in practice; staff planned to consult the DNR urban forestry coordinator about movement and processing protocols.
Finally, a sturgeon biologist contacted staff about smaller riprap along Pfeiffer Park, saying eggs there are vulnerable and recommending larger rock (about 24‑inch) to create suitable sturgeon spawning habitat; staff said the DNR would lead any such project and that Memorial Park had similar work previously.
No formal votes were taken on these updates; staff will monitor the dam situation, coordinate with DNR on shoreline and fish‑habitat work, and develop options for ash‑wood processing and disposal.
