During a recent government meeting, officials emphasized the critical need for funding to ensure dam safety across the region. A board member highlighted the importance of securing financial support, noting that while the governor's office may be weary of repeated requests, the potential consequences of neglecting dam safety could be catastrophic. Citing the Joe's Valley dam as a case in point, the member warned that a failure could have devastating effects on power generation and public safety.
The discussion also revealed that many moderate and low-hazard dams are undergoing repairs without any financial assistance. An example was provided of the Atwood dam, which was rebuilt at a cost of one million dollars by the Dry Gulf Irrigation company, entirely funded by the company itself. This situation underscores the broader issue of dam maintenance and the financial burdens faced by individual owners who must comply with safety regulations without external support.
Another board member acknowledged the extensive dam activity occurring outside the purview of the board, stressing that while inspections focus on high-hazard dams, many others also require attention and funding. The meeting concluded with a consensus on the importance of raising awareness about these issues and the ongoing need for financial resources to maintain dam safety effectively.