DamWatch

This web-based monitoring software solution can assist with monitoring and managing NRCS-assisted dams. The tool empowers dam owners to predict, identify, prepare for, manage, and record potentially destructive environmental events. DamWatch^® centralizes and makes accessible all database and geospatial information through an interactive web interface. When dams are experiencing a dangerous or critical event, essential personnel are alerted via any electronic medium (cell phones, pagers, email, and fax) and can implement Emergency Action Plans (EAPs) if necessary. 

NRCS has worked with U.S. Engineering, a software development company, since 2012 to customize the DamWatch® web application to meet the needs of the approximately 12,000 NRCS project dam owners and sponsors. The application gives registered users access to important information, including as-built plans, operation and maintenance agreements, emergency action plans, inundation maps, inspection reports, photos, videos and assessment reports—in real-time emergency situations. In 2021, NRCS entered into an interagency agreement with the U.S. Forest Service to add up to 600 of its dams to the system.