Earthen Dams Notice

Owners of earthen dams should perform a visual inspection of their dams to identify damages that may have resulted from the heavy rainfall and high winds associated with Hurricane Katrina. Specific findings that should be immediately reported to MDEQ would include:

1. Significant erosion and loss of turf on the downstream face of the dam indicating that the dam may have been overtopped during the storm.

2. Uprooted or winddamaged trees located on the slopes of the dam or within 200 feet of the downstream toe of the embankment.

3. Soft saturated areas or presence of water flowing out of the embankment, particularly in the lower third of the downstream face of the dam.

4. Any other circumstance or condition that the owner believes may pose a threat to the integrity of the embankment.

Report problems or direct questions to Gaylan McGregor at (601) 961-5642 or Mike Meadows at (601) 961-5272.