Harwood prepares for a jump in water levels

Right now, the Sheyenne River is the only sign in Harwood of an incoming flood. The river has swelled close to the top of a permanent earthen levee. We talked with a family who lives on the other side of that barrier who feels calm and confident.

The noise of contracting crews hauling in loads of earth, and using heavy equipment, doesn't bother the Dide family.

“In a way it's a little bit reassuring, because we know they're just helping to shore up the dike in the back a little bit. There are a couple of weak spots, and they'll have those fixed shortly.”

They've lived on the Sheyenne for years and understand the downside of river life, when the water goes up.

“Two years in a row does get kind of difficult.”

The family is happy with the way the city and county is taking care of business, but they do have concerns. Like others in the area, they're worried about the possibility of the interstate going under again. Something engineers say is very likely, if or when the Sheyenne breaks out of its banks.

“It tends to be higher than a the surrounding ground and even though there's very little standing water right now, once the Sheyenne starts breaking out, it fills a lot of sections of land pretty quickly. Same as over closer to the Red.”

A few clay levees will be put up, sandbags and sand will also be delivered, but right now leaders say people should be feeling good.

“Last year really set the bench mark for a lot of these people, and they all feel like if it's not as bad as last year, they can deal with it.”

County leaders want to promote their website, www.CassCountynd.gov. There's a button for people to click on to get the latest information out. People can also call 297-6000 for any county related questions.

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