Watterson Dining Commons was working feverishly to repair a plumbing issue that suddenly shut down its facilities on Saturday afternoon.

“A plumbing issue was discovered at Watterson Dining Commons and was closed Saturday afternoon for immediate repair,” ISU campus dining marketing coordinator, Tracy Widergren, said.

Meal plan holders received notification via email Saturday evening about the closure, as well as the temporary food service options that would be provided during the closure.

Amanda Carlson/Photographer: Corey Ranweiler, freshman business information systems major, adds toppings to his burger in the Brown Ballroom Monday afternoon, due to the temporary closure at Watterson Dining Commons.

 When a plumbing issue exists within any dining facility, water testing is necessary before a facility is able to be reopened in order to ensure safety and security, Windergren said.

“A Campus Dining Services employee noticed that the water appeared not to be clear and rather than take any chances, Campus Dining Services decided to close Watterson Dining Commons until the water could be tested,” Windergren said.

 Monday afternoon, Watterson Dining Commons received test results stating that the water met all regulatory standards.

Watterson Dining Commons will reopen for service at 7 a.m. today under normal operating hours.

“We were awaiting those results, and once we had more information, we were able to update our meal plan holders and the campus community on when Watterson would reopen,” Windergren said.

Staff is now beginning the procedures necessary to reopen the facility on time. For additional information, consult campus dining’s website or contact Tracy Windergren at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .