**Edenville Community Still Seeking Answers Five Years After Dam Disaster**
Edenville, MI — Five years after the catastrophic failure of the Edenville Dam, residents continue to grapple with the pain and destruction left in its wake. On May 19, 2020, the dam’s collapse unleashed catastrophic flooding, decimating Wixom Lake and affecting approximately 11,000 residents. Now, the community’s turmoil is compounded by a pressing need for justice and accountability.
In the years since that fateful day, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) had issued multiple warnings regarding the structural risks associated with the dam. Yet, despite the ominous forecasts, inadequate action was taken to mitigate these risks, resulting in widespread property damage and environmental contamination. Homes were inundated, and cherished recreational areas transformed into muddy wastelands.
Local residents, like Gordy Stryker, Chris, and Laura, have faced the monumental task of rebuilding their lives. “This isn’t just about property; it’s our homes, our memories,” Stryker said, staring at the remnants of what used to be a vibrant community. “We were told to prepare for any issues, but no one prepared us for this.”
As legal proceedings loom, scheduled to begin in 2026, residents are frustrated by the slow wheels of justice. Many feel abandoned, yearning for answers that remain elusive. “We demand transparency and accountability,” Chris stated. “We’ve been through enough; it’s time someone is held responsible.”
Despite the challenges, the spirit of Edenville remains resilient. Local leaders and community organizations are joining forces to advocate for improved infrastructure and emergency response systems to ensure this tragedy never repeats itself. As they commemorate the five-year anniversary, the hopeful cry of this community remains clear: they will not rest until the truth is uncovered.