Geothermal plans included in high school renovation looking good so far

Building and Grounds Manager Greg Schaller told the Decorah School Board Monday night that the initial tests for inclusion of geothermal plans in the high school renovation proposal were looking good based on positive initial test well results. The next step is the drilling of a full well, with a full 24 hour test to evaluate a number of issues, including the pressure impact on city wells. If this step goes well, the project would include at least two wells that are basically the equivalent size of city wells. Shawver Well Company is doing the work.

School and city officials have met on the issue, and even discussed the city being able to utilize the wells (a process used in other municipalities), but currently the draw on city water does not demand additional need.