During Tuesday’s Board of Supervisors meeting, the Department of Soil and Water Conservation defended the progress made in the Forestville Millpond drawdown. The controversial policy began in November of last year. Staff member Greg Coulthurst said there are definite signs that soil compaction is happening, thanks to a gradual drying out process. Coulthurst noted prominent geographic landmarks, such as large rocks, are becoming more visible. He also pointed out that plant life is increasing in the pond bed.

Groups contest the drawdown’s success, including the Friends of the Forestville Dam. They have filed a notice of claim in district court challenging the measure. That legal action was not discussed by Soil and Water. 

Other items discussed including a lengthy presentation by the Wisconsin Counties Association. That typically happens in April as a kind of orientation for newly elected officials but was pushed back due to COVID-19. Tuesday’s talk focused on ethics and a brief explainer of how government works at the county level. Representatives from the WCA will be at future meetings to conduct further training aimed at good governance.

*Millpond photo taken August 6, 2020. Water level has fluctuated significantly since then.