H.E.L.P: Kentucky Dam Safety Program

July 28, 2026

10:00 a.m. EDT

Lakes, water reservoirs, and river spillways are valuable community assets that support recreation, water management, economic development, and public safety. Proper maintenance and regular inspections are essential to ensuring these structures remain safe, functional, and compliant with state requirements. Failure to identify and address potential issues can lead to costly repairs, environmental impacts, and, in extreme cases, catastrophic failures.

This session will provide city officials, utility personnel, public works staff, and other local leaders with a practical overview of dam and impoundment safety. Participants will learn about inspection requirements, maintenance best practices, common warning signs of structural concerns, emergency planning considerations, and resources available through the Kentucky Division of Water. Whether your city owns a small recreational lake or larger water control infrastructure, this presentation will help you better understand your responsibilities and the steps needed to protect these important assets for years to come.

Presenters: 

• Kentucky State Dam Safety Engineer Glen Anderson
• Kentucky Division of Water Environmental Engineer II Beth Harrod, PE

Credit: 1 hour of Community Safety and Health credit