SUBMITTING DATA

How to Submit & Update Data

If you notice data that is out of date, incorrect, or missing, you can submit a data change request. Learn how here.

Introduction

The Low-Head Dam Inventory is a new dataset that captures what is known about low-head dams in the U.S. While the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers publishes the site, the dataset is based on information provided by a variety of entities. The quality and availability of information greatly varies and in some cases is incomplete or missing. Available data will continue to change as the initial dataset is reviewed and improved.

Data changes can include updates to an existing low-head dam or addition of data for a new low-head dam not yet in the dataset. Examples of updated or new data include geospatial information (e.g., the dam alignment and location) or dam attributes (e.g., design and construction and ownership information).

Submitting Data for New Low-Head Dams

The Low-Head Dam Inventory does not include all known structures in the U.S. If you’re aware of a low-head dam not yet in the inventory and have information on it, please contact us to initiate a request to add the dam.

To be added to the dataset:

• The dam must meet the definition of a low-head dam. If you are unsure, you can contact the National Inventory of Dams helpdesk who can help you determine if your project meets the definition of a low-head dam.
• GPS coordinates are needed to locate the low-head dam. The National Inventory of Dams helpdesk can review and verify the data provided and work to include the dam in the dataset.

If additional information is available – such as the owner, height or length of the structure, parts of the low-head dam, etc. – please include it with your submission.

Photographs are also helpful to include in your submission and can be displayed on a low-head dam’s Summary page. Sharing this media can help confirm the dam’s location and promote public recognition of the structure when on the waterway.

Updating Data for Existing Low-Head Dams

Information for low-head dams included in the dataset greatly varies. Should you have information about a low-head dam you see in the inventory, please contact us to initiate a request to add data for the dam. When sharing additional data, please include in your submission the name of the low-head dam and identification number in the inventory.

Additional and review of available data can include the following:

• Confirmation of the dam’s location and main features
• Information about the dam’s owner
• Photographs of the low-head dam
• Relevant summaries of the dam’s design, construction, and condition
• Known safety issues, such as degrading conditions or presence of dangerous currents for people

Feedback

The Low-Head Dam Inventory is an important step to improving public safety by sharing what is known about these dams nationwide. Your feedback can help us continue to improve the site, available data, and educational resources. Feedback - including on what data fields and information are most important to display – can be shared by emailing us at NID@usace.army.mil.