Responsibilities and Liability
The two types of dam structures on national forests are:
- Operated and owned by the Forest Service.
- Operated and owned by the holder of a Special Use Authorization
The owner is responsible for the operation and maintenance of a safe dam. Maintaining a dam safely is a key element in preventing failure and limiting the liability that an owner could face. The extent of an owner's liability varies from State to State and depends on statutes and case law precedents.
Owners can be liable for any failure of a dam and all damages resulting from its failure. Any uncontrolled release of the reservoir resulting from a dam failure can have a devastating effect on persons and property downstream.
This guide is designed for a wide audience. The recommended action taken by individuals will be determined by their expertise with dam maintenance. Inexperienced individuals should photograph suspected problem(s) and report to the owner who is responsible for the dam.
When you become aware of any unusual conditions that seem critical or dangerous to a dam, report them immediately to the appropriate Federal or State agency official. You may need to contact a professional engineer in dam safety to address the conditions.
Figure 1—Typical
dam diagram showing
common terms.
For a longer description click here.
Figure 2—Some causes
of dam failures.
For a longer description click here.
Figure 3—Typical
gate valve used with
a principal spillway to
control water level.
Figure 4—Typical drop
inlet riser serving as
a principal spillway to
control
water level.
