Dam Watch, developed by USEngineering Solutions Corp. in Hartford, gives DEP instant access to all plans, inspection reports and records related to these dams as well as "real time access" to gauges that monitor rain fall and water levels near these dams.
While the system is currently focused on state-owned dams, it will also help DEP assess and monitor conditions at many of the more than 4,000 private dams in the state. These dams are often located close to and in the same watersheds as the state-owned dams.
DEP staff will be training on the new Dam Watch system in coming weeks and it is expected to be fully operational in early 2008. A similar system is currently in use by the state Department of Transportation to monitor condition at bridges across the state.
Rell said, "Dam Watch system is a perfect example of state agencies taking advantage of the latest technology to meet their responsibilities and protect the people of our state. By building this electronic system and putting it to use, DEP can more easily make certain that state-owned dams are in sound condition and can keep close tabs on them during severe storms."
"The DEP has many responsibilities but none is as important as protecting the health and safety of our residents," said DEP Commissioner Gina McCarthy. "Being able to constantly monitor of the dams we own in the state is an enormously important tool to help us do that job."
