McMinnville underwent another inspection of its dam on Barren Fork River.
“This is the latest dam inspection,” said Water Department director Anthony Pelham. “Insert your dam jokes now, if you so choose.”
Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation is responsible for carrying out the requirements of the Safe Dam Act of 1973. The responsibility of maintaining a dam rests solely with the owner.
Pelham informed city Water and Sewer Committee members the dam passed its inspection, but recommendations were made.
“The dam passed. It’s in good shape, but they did recommend a few maintenance items, such as cleanup. As part of that, our staff will be working on the trees that are near the abutments where the dam keys into the bank on each side. We will focus on safety and section off that area. They want us to prevent any roots from going toward the dam or anything that would cause a deterioration or breakdown of the foundation.”
Alderman Everett Brock asked if the review included an underwater inspection.
“They did not,” said Pelham. “His inspection was on the outside.”
McMinnville was given its certification for safety. It is inspected every two years.