We read a report this week announcing the work on Wolf Creek Dam had reached the 35 percent stage of completion and data and observations have shown no stability abnormalities in the earthen embankment.

There has been a critical area identified in the repair project where the earthen part adjoins the concrete section. Work was suspended in this section near the concrete portion in March when instrumentation indicated material movement deep in the dam. Reports stated engineers were more concerned about existing cracks in the roadbed of U.S. 127 atop the dam. The cracks have expanded up to an inch since the first of this year. The Corps’ latest project update says suspension of work in Critical Area 1 will continue until August 31.

Test results are expected to be completed this week on soil samples from Critical Area 1 to determine stability of the embankment near the juncture of the earthen and concrete sections. Based on these tests, a recommendation will be made to the division commander of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers by mid to late August. These findings apparently will determine how the Corps will proceed to repair the most critical seepage area.

 Progress is about two weeks behind schedule and Fred Tucker, public affairs officer for the Corps’ Nashville District, said the report in mid to late August will give indication of whether the current December 2012 completion date of the dam rehabilitation project will have to be extended.

There has not been any determination made about the future level of Lake Cumberland.

Rumors have been reported at all ranges as to the future level of the lake.

The future level of the lake is very important to the economy of the area. The economical future of the area is directly connected to this fact. Not only in terms of real estate values around the lake but in all other areas as well including the number one - visitation numbers.

The area has just not been able to overcome the initial reporting  by the media which painted a picture that Lake Cumberland was dry.

Some are now speculating the lake level will never return to it’s original levels.

This has not been determined by any means and all indications are that the lake will return to normal operations once the repair is completed.