ISHPEMING -- The Upper Peninsula Power Company began refilling the Bond Falls Reservoir on Tuesday.

The water level of the reservoir was lowered 20 feet so construction could be completed on the spillway, according to UPPCO.

Spillway construction was required by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission's Dam Safety Division.

"Although there is still a small amount of construction that needs to be completed this spring, UPPCO will be able to begin to refill the reservoir and operate the reservoir at higher levels throughout the year," said Jim Melchiori, Supervisor-Regional Generation.

The refilling of the reservoir is expected to take two years.

"We urge the public to exercise caution if they're using the area around Bond flowage for recreation," Melchiori added.