To protect people against loss of life and property from flood and dam failure, DEC is entrusted with the regulatory power over dams. Dams are man-made barriers constructed to impound water. DEC enforces requirements to operate and maintain dams in a safe condition, and monitors remedial work for compliance with dam safety criteria.
Access Dam Safety forms and regulations
Find helpful resources for dam owners
General dam safety contact information and county specific contacts
Floodplain management involves land-use planning and corrective and preventative measures designed to reduce flood damage in flood-prone areas. These measures are adopted by local governments in order to minimize both flood damage and the financial impacts of floods on individuals. Communities participating in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) must adopt and enforce minimum floodplain management requirements.
Some of New York's coastline are especially vulnerable to coastal erosion. This erosion happens through natural actions and human activities. Erosion is the loss or displacement of land along the coastline.
The Coastal Erosion Hazard Area (CEHA) Permit Program provides written approval of regulated activities or land disturbance to properties within the Coastal Erosion Hazard Areas within DEC's jurisdiction.
Define common Coastal Erosion Hazard Area (CEHA) terms and CEHA Map terms.
Find general guidelines for repairs, along with guidance that can help avoid future property damage and habitat impacts when conducting coastal projects.
Human activities can increase coastal erosion of sandy beaches, dunes, and bluffs. This includes construction, shipping, boating, and recreation. These events play a major role in the coastal erosion process. Human actions can speed up the coastal erosion process.
Learn what it means to be a DEC Environmental Engineer and the unique work they do across New York State.
