Michigan’s Aging Dams Pose Threat to 100K Residents

MICHIGAN’S DAMS are a pressing concern for many residents, with over 100,000 people living downstream of potentially hazardous dams that are often aging, undersized, or neglected. Dam safety has become a critical issue, with many dams showing signs of deterioration, such as water seeping through embankments, spillways that are too small to handle major floods, and gates controlling water flow that are in a deteriorated condition.

Introduction to Dam Safety in Michigan

The state’s dams are regulated by both federal and state agencies, but despite efforts to boost oversight, safety shortcomings persist. In 2018, a near-disaster at the LaBarge Dam highlighted the risks, with hundreds of yards of trucked-in sand preventing a catastrophic failure. However, eight years later, federal records show that the dam still poses a significant risk, with water seeping through the embankment and a spillway that is too small to pass a major flood.

Jonathan Korbecki, a resident who lives downstream of the LaBarge Dam, is one of many Michiganders who are left to wonder how long the dam will hold. ‘It makes me nervous,’ he said. ‘Why should you be allowed to own a dam if you can’t maintain it?’ The question is a valid one, as many dam owners seem to be neglecting their maintenance responsibilities, putting the lives of thousands of people at risk.

Regulation and Oversight of Dams in Michigan

The regulation of dams in Michigan is a complex issue, with both federal and state agencies playing a role. The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) regulates hydropower dams, while the state regulates smaller dams. However, despite the presence of these regulatory bodies, many dams are still not being properly maintained. In fact, a study found that 19 of 153 high-hazard dams in the state are in poor or unsatisfactory condition, while 23 out of 155 significant-hazard dams are also in a state of disrepair.

The reasons for this lack of maintenance are varied, but one major factor is the lack of transparency in dam safety records. Federal policies allow dam owners to shield safety records from the public, making it difficult for regulators to identify potential problems. Additionally, state laws deem Michigan dams safe even when other states would consider them dangerous, which can lead to a lack of urgency in addressing safety concerns.

Consequences of Dam Failure

The consequences of a dam failure can be catastrophic, with the potential to cause loss of life, destruction of property, and significant economic damage. In 2018, the failure of two dams in Midland prompted unsuccessful efforts to boost oversight of Michigan’s dams. More recently, floods triggered a spate of failures and near-misses, costing taxpayers at least $5 million and likely far more.

The potential consequences of a dam failure are not limited to the immediate area surrounding the dam. Downstream communities can also be affected, with the potential for flooding, water pollution, and other environmental hazards. In fact, a study found that the 100,000 residents living downstream of potentially hazardous dams are likely a vast underestimate, as the figure only includes risks tied to state-regulated dams and does not account for federally regulated dams.

Steps to Improve Dam Safety

So what can be done to improve dam safety in Michigan? One step is to increase transparency in dam safety records, allowing regulators to identify potential problems and take action to address them. Another step is to upgrade state safety standards to align with national guidance, which would help to ensure that dams are being properly maintained and operated.

In addition, dam owners must be held accountable for maintaining their dams. This can be achieved through a combination of regulation, education, and enforcement. Dam owners must be aware of their responsibilities and take steps to ensure that their dams are safe and well-maintained. This can include regular inspections, maintenance, and repairs, as well as implementing emergency response plans in the event of a failure.

What Should You Do About Michigan’s Aging Dams?

For residents living downstream of potentially hazardous dams, it is essential to be aware of the risks and take steps to prepare. This can include staying informed about the condition of local dams, having an emergency plan in place, and being prepared to evacuate if necessary. Additionally, residents can contact their local representatives to express concerns about dam safety and advocate for increased transparency and accountability.

Ultimately, the safety of Michigan’s dams is a collective responsibility, requiring the efforts of regulators, dam owners, and residents. By working together, we can help to prevent catastrophic failures and ensure the safety of communities across the state. As Korbecki so aptly put it, ‘Why should you be allowed to own a dam if you can’t maintain it?’ It is time for Michigan to take a closer look at its dam safety regulations and make the necessary changes to protect its residents.

Michiganders have the right to feel safe in their communities, and it is our responsibility to ensure that they are protected from the risks posed by aging dams.

Will the state take the necessary steps to address the issue of dam safety, or will it continue to neglect its responsibilities, putting the lives of thousands of people at risk? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: the safety of Michigan’s dams is a pressing concern that demands attention and action.