Federal Workforce Cuts Threaten Dam Safety
The Trump administration's workforce cuts at federal agencies overseeing U.S. dams are threatening their ability to provide reliable electricity, supply farmers with water, and protect communities from floods, employees and industry experts warn.
Agency Staffing Levels Critically Low
The Bureau of Reclamation provides water and hydropower to the public in 17 western states. Nearly 400 agency workers have been cut through the Trump reduction plan, an administration official said. "Reductions-in-force" memos have also been sent to current workers, and more layoffs are expected.
Experts Sound Alarm on Dam Safety
"Without these dam operators, engineers, hydrologists, geologists, researchers, emergency managers, and other experts, there is a serious potential for heightened risk to public safety and economic or environmental damage," Lori Spragens, executive director of the Kentucky-based Association of Dam Safety Officials, told the AP.
White House Response Criticized
White House spokesperson Anna Kelly said federal workforce reductions will ensure disaster responses are not bogged down by bureaucracy and bloat. "A more efficient workforce means more timely access to resources for all Americans," she said by email.
Dam Operators Emphasize Importance of Workforce
But a bureau hydrologist said they need people on the job to ensure the dams are working properly. "These are complex systems," said the worker in the Midwest, who is still employed but spoke on condition of anonymity for fear of possible retaliation.
Federal Judge Intervenes
A federal judge on Thursday ordered the administration to rehire fired probationary workers, but a Trump spokesperson said they would fight back, leaving unclear whether any would return.
Other Agencies Affected
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers also operates dams and has faced layoffs and closures. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration is laying off 10% of its workforce, and the Federal Emergency Management Agency's National Dam Safety Review Board was disbanded in January.
Dam Conditions Raise Concerns
An AP review of Army Corps data last year showed at least 4,000 dams are in poor or unsatisfactory condition and could kill people or harm the environment if they failed. They require inspections, maintenance, and emergency repairs to avoid catastrophes.
Recent Dam Failures Highlight Risks
Heavy rain damaged the spillway at California's Oroville Dam in 2017, forcing nearly 190,000 residents to evacuate, and Michigan's Edenville Dam breached in storms in 2020.
Senator Demands Accountability
Sen. Alex Padilla, a California Democrat, said the safety and efficacy of our dams is a national security priority. "Americans deserve better, and I will work to make sure this administration is held accountable for their reckless actions," Padilla said.
Contributing Reporters
Associated Press White House reporter Chris Megerian contributed from Washington, D.C.