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Aging Smaller Dams
The Hidden Risk Beneath Rural Waters
Since the 1950s, engineers constructed thousands of small dams across rural America. These structures, often referred to as “watershed dams,” served multiple purposes—flood control, drinking water supply, wildlife protection, and recreational opportunities. At the time, these dams posed minimal risk. If one failed, the damage might be limited to a flooded field or a broken fence. However, times have changed. As rural areas transformed into bustling communities, the consequences of dam failure have grown significantly. Today, aging smaller dams present a serious threat to public safety and infrastructure.
What the Latest Report Reveals about Aging Smaller Dams
A recent WatchBlog post sheds light on the deteriorating condition of watershed dams nationwide. The report emphasizes that as communities expand, the risks associated with aging smaller dams increase dramatically. Many of these dams now sit near homes, roads, and public utilities. If one collapses, the result could be catastrophic—loss of life, property damage, and disruption of essential services. Alarmingly, nearly one-third of these dams fall into the high-risk category due to their proximity to populated areas.
Are You Living Near a Watershed Dam?
Surprisingly, many people live near watershed dams without realizing it. Across the United States, nearly 12,000 such dams exist, most of them built on small waterways like creeks and streams. Builders used large earthen walls to manage flooding in agricultural zones. To find out if you live near one, visit the Army Corps National Inventory of Dams, an online database that tracks nearly 93,000 dams—including those classified as watershed dams.
Why Aging Smaller Dams Raise Concern
Initially, experts considered these dams low-risk because they stood in sparsely populated areas. However, as cities and suburbs expanded, the landscape changed. Today, many of these dams sit dangerously close to homes, highways, and utility lines. Their failure could lead to devastating consequences.
Age alone doesn’t tell the full story. Poor maintenance, extreme weather events, and outdated designs also contribute to the growing risk. Heavy rainfall, for example, can overwhelm even well-maintained dams. The USDA estimates that most watershed dams are nearly 70 years old—about 20 years beyond their intended lifespan. Clearly, aging smaller dams require urgent attention.
Moving Toward Safer Solutions
Fortunately, efforts are underway to improve dam safety. Federal and state agencies are working together to assess conditions, prioritize repairs, and educate the public. Communities must stay informed and advocate for infrastructure upgrades. By understanding the risks and supporting proactive measures, residents can help prevent future disasters.
Final Thoughts
The story of aging smaller dams is more than a tale of old infrastructure—it’s a call to action. As development continues and climate patterns shift, the need for safe, resilient water management systems becomes more urgent. Whether you live near a dam or simply care about public safety, now is the time to learn, engage, and support solutions that protect lives and property.