Hundreds High-Hazard Dams in Poor Condition Across Multiple US States

Across the United States, many dams are classified as high hazard due to the potential for loss of life and significant property damage if they fail, with numerous structures also rated in poor or unsafe conditions. In New Hampshire, nearly 200 dams are under the highest level of scrutiny, with state inspections occurring biennially and recent legislative efforts increasing dam registration fees to fund safety programs. Massachusetts faces similar challenges, with 65 dams deemed unsafe and nine classified as unsafe high hazard, prompting Governor Maura Healey to propose significant funding through the READY Act to address these risks. Nebraska and Iowa rank relatively well nationally, with no high-hazard dams requiring immediate action, though some are in poor condition, while states like Oklahoma report critical issues, such as the severely deteriorated Cushing Lake dam, where funding and prioritization impede repairs. Kentucky and Indiana also have hundreds of high-hazard dams, many in poor or unsatisfactory condition, highlighting a widespread national issue of aging infrastructure and insufficient resources for maintenance and repair. Overall, these reports underscore a pressing need for increased investment and attention towards dam safety to prevent catastrophic failures across multiple states.