Natural Resources

Efficiently and responsibly managing and protecting our water and land resources for the sustainability, health, safety, and economic benefit of the State of Arkansas

Resources For Dam Owners

Dam Owners Academy, Dam Owner Forms, and Related Publications

One of the most important components of dam safety is owner education. As a dam owner, you are legally responsible for maintaining your dam safely, and you could be found liable should your structure fail and cause loss of life or damage to the property of others. The Dam Owner Academy, developed by the Association of State Dam Safety Officials, provides videos and other resources to educate and inform owners on all aspects of operating and maintaining a dam safely. This free resource concisely presents the critical basics of owner responsibilities.

A responsible owner must be aware of:

  • State and/or federal dam laws and regulations;
  • Proper operation and maintenance practices;
  • Rehabilitation needs;
  • Emergency action planning and;
  • How to hire qualified dam engineers.

Through education, owners can take steps to:

  • Reduce the likelihood of incidents and failures;
  • Reduce their liability;
  • Improve the safety of dams;
  • Help to reduce the risk to communities

The Dam Owner Academy training videos can be accessed here: Dam Owner Academy video training (free)

Additional resources, including guidance on EAPs, common causes of dam failure, and inspection procedures can be found here: Resources for Dam Owners and Operators

Forms for Owners

Publications:

For more information contact:
Whit Montague, CFM
501-682-3969
Whitney.Montague@Agriculture.Arkansas.Gov