CLINTON TOWNSHIP -- The wind on White Oak Pond was really too strong for fishing on Saturday, but Lou Poltanis was determined to give it a try. After coming here for more than 80 years, this may be his last chance.
He said, "I used to come here with my older brother, he was the first soldier killed in World War II from Wayne County."
But officials with the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission say the dams at White Oak Pond and Miller Pond in Mount Pleasant Township are slated to be drained until they can be rehabilitated. A spokesperson points to the age and condition of both dams.
Poltanis added, "We will miss the pond, but if the dam is unsafe, what can you do, you can't kill people."
But not everyone is convinced the dams are unsafe.
Janet Curtis said, "In 2006 we had that awful storm and we had all that rain, the dam did not budge, I don't really think there is anything wrong with it."
Russell Curtis said, " The DEP, I don't think they are right here. The same with Miller (Pond)."
A public meeting is planned for October 22, from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Forest City High School.
People we met at White Oak Pond say they plan to attend that meeting and try to stop the draining plan.
We asked Janet Curtis if she believes the plan can be changed. She said, "I hope so, I really hope so."
Poltanis said, "Maybe they will change their mind, hopefully."
State officials however say there is no money available to repair and replace either dam.
