Dam Infrastructure Needs Increase in 2020

Record rainfall in the past weeks has highlighted the need for improved dam infrastructure after two dams failed in Michigan, and one potential dam failure in southwestern Virginia led to thirteen evacuated homes as a safety precaution.
 
The two dams that failed in Michigan were high-hazard dams, following a pattern of two-thirds of the state’s dams that are in a similar condition. The Association of State Dam Safety Officials (ASDSO) estimates at least $23 billion in funding is needed to repair high risk state dams across the nation. 
 
Creating and supporting funding efforts by federal and state governments is essential for dam repair because, unlike other infrastructures, most dams in the U.S. are privately owned, which leaves owners responsible for financial upkeep. Occasional upgrades and maintenance are necessary for dams to continue serving their purpose. Deterioration over time, changes in requirements, and a given area’s precipitation can all lead to needed repairs. 
 
Luckily, there are legislations addressing dam infrastructure currently making their way through federal approval. Last week Congressman Sean Patrick Maloney (D-NY) introduced the Dam Safety Improvement Act, which would better support the existing dam program and additionally provides better definitions for technical terms. The American Society of Civil Engineers fully supports this legislation, as dams are vital structures in protecting communities and driving the economy forward. The ASCE also hopes for the passing of the bipartisan America’s Water Infrastructure Act of 2020, which would authorize increased infrastructure projects and awaits a vote in the Senate.