Audit Report: IG-0486

October 27, 2000

Federal Energy Regulatory Commission's Dam Safety Program

Under the Federal Power Act, as amended, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (Commission) is responsible for ensuring that over 2,500 non-Federal hydroelectric dams under its jurisdiction are properly constructed, operated and maintained. To determine whether the dams' physical structures are maintained in a safe manner to protect the public, the Commission performs onsite inspections to identify evidence of damage or other conditions that could impair proper project operation or violate license requirements.