Plugs Used In Lake Reportedly Working

Clay plugs wedged into 20-plus holes in a bone-dry millpond on Spirit Lake six months ago appear to have done their job.

Supporters of a plan to plug leaks in the pond are claiming success and a state official said he is impressed with the outcome.

Runoff flowing into the millpond from Mount Spokane is causing levels to rise about an inch a day.

“I’m actually surprised that it’s coming up as fast as it is as soon as it is,” said Jim Brady, a navigable water specialist with the Department of Lands.

Skeptical state and federal officials approved an application last September to plug the holes with layers of gravel and bentonite, a clay-like, moistureabsorbing rock.