The Deschutes river, eating its way through mudflats, was nearing its ancient channel on the bottom of the Mirror pond today, as drainage of the big basin, to permit of repair work on the power dam, neared completion. Work releasing water was started yesterday evening, and the pond was lowered about six feet. Today, the gates were further opened, permitting the impounded water to rush into the channel north of the dam.
The silt-filled basin attracted wide attention today, as the river flowed swiftly through the muddy bottom. Swans, geese and ducks did not appear to be greatly bothered by the disappearance of the man-made lake. However, riverside residents report considerable noise by the waterfowl through the night, as the birds apparently sensed that something was happening. This morning, the waterfowl were scouting for food along the drying basin, and were finding plenty, especially aquatic weeds.
To reduce the direct flow of the river as much as possible, water was diverted into the Central Oregon canal upstream, and the Crane prairie gates were closed. It is anticipated that less than 300 second feet of water will be flowing through the channel while the power dam gates are open.
The pond will remain dry for a week or 10 days, power company officials report.
Several projects may be undertaken in the Mirror pond basin while the water is out. Bend pageant committeemen will investigate the possibility of erecting permanent concrete piers for the pageant arch, to replace the temporary rock-filled pier. At Pageant park, the city plans to start work on a waterfront wall. Rock for this work has already been assembled.
Pageant committee anticipates some difficulty in getting the concrete pier constructed, inasmuch as contractors do not appear to be interested in the project. There is a question of finding a solid foundation for the pier.
Source: Bend Bulletin ©1941
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