How to Choose Your Dam Inspector: A Guide for Connecticut Dam Owners

Connecticut is home to over 4,200 registered dams, with an estimated 4,800 total when including unregistered structures. As a dam owner, selecting the right inspector is a critical decision—dams carry inherent risks, and a poorly conducted inspection can leave you vulnerable. At Ironwood Geotech LLC, we’ve seen too many reports from engineers lacking dam expertise, offering vague recommendations with no context or actionable mitigation strategies. Your dam deserves better. Here’s how to choose a qualified dam inspector to protect your investment and community.

Inspection of earthen embankment in Connecticut

Key Questions to Ask Your Dam Inspector

When hiring an engineer for a regulatory dam inspection, these questions ensure you’re getting the expertise you need:

1. What is Your Academic Training and Engineering Focus?

   • Why It Matters: Not all engineers are dam experts. With minimal regulation on who can inspect dams in Connecticut, you need someone with specialized training. Civil engineers with a focus in geotechnical engineering, water resources (paired with geotechnical knowledge), or structural engineering (with geotechnical experience) are best equipped. Think of it like choosing a specialist—would you trust a dentist to fix your eyes? Ask about their degree and coursework to confirm their foundation in dam-related disciplines.

2. What Experience Do You Have with Dam Investigations and Design?

   • Licensing: Look for a Professional Engineer (PE) licensed in Connecticut, requiring at least four years of practical experience or advanced studies beyond the initial Engineer-in-Training (EIT) certification.

   • Practical Experience: Dam engineering demands hands-on know-how. Federal agencies often restrict drilling through dams to seasoned geotechnical engineers—akin to surgery on a vital organ. Ask for their track record: How many dams have they inspected? Designed? Repaired? An experienced inspector brings proven insight, reducing your risk.

3. What’s Your Latest Training in Dam Safety?

   • Why It Matters: Engineering evolves—your inspector should too. Membership in the American Society of Dam Safety Officials (ASDSO) signals a commitment to the field. Inquire about recent courses, certificates, or conferences (e.g., ASDSO Dam Safety events). A passionate dam engineer will eagerly share updates on technology or studies, ensuring they’re current on best practices.

What to Expect from a Qualified Dam Inspector

Once you’ve chosen an inspector, these benchmarks indicate you’ve selected well:

1. Did They Request Historical Data?

   • A diligent engineer will ask for previous reports or records from you or CT DEEP. Skipping this step shows disinterest in your dam’s history, risking missed opportunities to address known issues and lower your liability.

2. Are They Transparent and Inclusive?

   • Expect an invitation to join the inspection. This openness lets you discuss your dam’s past—repairs, ownership changes, or planned projects—enhancing the engineer’s understanding while educating you on the process. Transparency builds trust and improves outcomes.

3. Did They Address Vegetation Management?

   • Proper inspections rely on visibility. If grass obscures your dam’s slopes, critical flaws go unseen—I’ve reviewed reports where tall vegetation hid the dam entirely. A good inspector will advise trimming vegetation beforehand and suggest optimal seasons (e.g., late fall) for clear visuals. Photos are vital for regulatory reports; if they don’t mention this, question their experience.

4. Do They Discuss Findings and Follow Up?

   • Post-inspection, a skilled engineer explains observations, risks, and next steps. Dams pose liability to you and downstream communities—your inspector should guide you on monitoring, maintenance, or mitigation, not just hand over a report. A willingness to talk paths forward reflects training and care.

Why It Matters

Connecticut’s dams—many aging relics from the 18th and 19th centuries—require expert oversight. A subpar inspection can overlook seepage, structural cracks, or erosion, amplifying risks. At Ironwood Geotech LLC, we believe in precision and integrity, ensuring your dam’s safety and compliance. Choosing the right inspector is your first step to peace of mind.

Need a dam inspection you can trust? Contact us at Ironwood Geotech LLC to discuss how we can safeguard your structure with expertise rooted in Connecticut’s unique geotechnical landscape.