Narrows Dam 
Narrows Dam is an all-concrete dam whose construction began in April 1947. The first bucket of concrete was placed into the dam in June 1948. Completion of the dam was in 1950 and dedicated in July 1951, upon completion of the entire project. The hard work and quality job performed by the construction crew has proved evident throughout the 64 years the dam has been in operation. Despite the skilled knowledge and craftsmanship involved in the construction of Narrows Dam, frequent inspections, evaluations, and consistent monitoring remain an integral component to this amazing structure.
Every five years, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Lake Greeson Field Office, hosts a comprehensive, proactive emergency exercise for authorities involved to ensure that each entity understands their responsibilities.
On May 28th, 2015 a “Tabletop Emergency Action Plan Exercise” will be reviewed as well as an emergency drill for the South Pike County Public Schools. The drill and exercise is a step-by-step plan that involves many different entities, from dam operators, emergency responders, county officials, and the South Pike County School district to ensure that everyone who can respond to an emergency of this nature will be able to respond swiftly and appropriately. Narrows Dam undergoes a rigorous inspection schedule to evaluate its integrity. During a recent inspection, as well as past inspections, Narrows Dam was given a DSAC IV safety rating, which is among the highest safety ratings of any dam in the nation. Despite its impeccable assessment, an emergency action plan is not only encouraged, it’s also vital for the protection of our local community, as well as residences farther downstream.
Depending on the extremely unlikely situation, and whether it is a potential dam breach emergency, or an imminent failure, prior preparation is critical. The exercise will be unperturbed, orderly, identify protocols, and be used to make a great plan better.
For more information regarding the emergency action plan exercise, feel free to contact Andrea McRae or Eric Jenkins, 870-285-2151 ext. 55001.
