Determined to make certain the future of Wehr's Dam is in good hands, William H. Wehr made a surprise visit to the engineering firm hired by South Whitehall Township to evaluate the structure and to develop a five-year plan for its maintenance.

Wehr's personal connection to the dam is through his great-grandfather, also named William H. Wehr, who ran a mill powered by water from the dam in the early 1900s.

At the Aug. 5 commissioners' meeting, Wehr reported his impressions of Michael Baker and Associates, the engineering firm, which bid $26,500 to conduct the Wehr's Dam study.

"I reviewed the engineers' dossier and went to their office to meet them," Wehr said. "They were cordial and interested in learning more.

"They have a lot of experience working on dams. I am pleased you picked such a good company."

He reported the Citizens to Save Wehr's Dam organization is working on IRS forms to apply for 501(c)3 status as a non-profit group.

Wehr said he learned Upper Macungie is benefitting from a 501(c)3 designation for its park system.

"We are hoping to do some money raising events at the park when we have 501(c)3," Wehr said. "I am also looking into grants."

Commissioner Glenn Block responded to Wehr's comments.

"We'll do anything we can to help you along with this," Block said. "This would help us pay for it."