73-5a-603 - Emergency power of state engineer.
73-5a-603. Emergency power of state engineer.
(1) The state engineer may intervene during dam emergencies if the owner of the damcannot be found or is unwilling to take appropriate action. Intervention may occur only when, inthe judgment of the state engineer, the condition of any dam is so dangerous to the safety of lifeor property as to not permit time for issuance and enforcement of any order.
(2) Emergency actions may include:
(a) alerting appropriate public safety entities of the problem;
(b) draining the reservoir;
(c) hiring personnel or leasing equipment to undertake emergency operations; or
(d) taking other steps considered necessary to safeguard life and property.
(3) Any expenses incurred in undertaking emergency operations shall be reimbursed bythe owner of the dam.
Enacted by Chapter 319, 1990 General Session