Virginia Department of Conservation announces awardees of $4 million grant for dam safety, flood protection

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- The Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) has announced the awardees of the more than $4 million state grant awarded for Dam safety and flood protection.

According to a press release, the award is for Dam safety, flood prevention and protection assistance fund. This grant program is designed to help both local governments and private dam owners enhance public safety through:

• Improved dam infrastructure
• Flood prevention planning

This year, the DCR has awarded $4.4 million in grants to 63 recipients across the Commonwealth area and funded projects such as dam rehabilitation, engineering studies and emergency action plans.

"The Dam Safety and Flood Prevention Fund is an essential tool in helping communities reduce risk and protect lives and property from flooding and dam-related hazards," said DCR Director Matt Wells. "We are proud to support localities and dam owners in advancing safety and resilience in the face of growing environmental challenges."

Although on behalf of DCR, the dam safety grant is managed by the Virginia Resource Authority, and awards grants through a "competitive" application process, which is later approved by the Virginia Soil and Water Conservation Board.

According to the DCR, the program provides financial support to enhance public safety that aligns with Virginia's broader efforts to build more resilient and adaptive communities during extreme weather events.

To find the full list of winners, you can visit the DCR website.