When it comes to infrastructure, few assets are as vital and as misunderstood as dams. For the Turkey Creek Dam and Dike Conservancy District, maintaining this critical structure isn’t just about engineering and water management. It’s also about navigating a complex and often unforgiving insurance landscape.

The Insurance Challenge

Securing insurance coverage for dams is notoriously difficult. For Turkey Creek, the hurdles have included:

• High premiums: Coverage is expensive, especially for small districts operating on tight budgets. In fact, Turkey Creek’s premium jumped from $24,000 in its first year to $50,000 in 2026, driven in part by a wave of natural disasters across the country.
• Strict inspections: Insurers require clean, detailed inspections before even considering a policy.
• Limited broker interest: Many insurance brokers simply won’t take on dam-related risks, leaving districts scrambling for options.

These challenges aren’t unique to Turkey Creek. Across the country, dam operators face similar struggles.

Why Dams Are Considered High Risk

Insurers view dams as high-risk for several reasons:

• Potential for catastrophic failure: A dam breach can lead to massive property damage, environmental harm, and even loss of life.
• Aging infrastructure: Many dams were built decades ago and require ongoing maintenance to meet modern safety standards.
• Regulatory scrutiny: Dams are subject to federal and state oversight, and non-compliance can trigger liability issues.

What Can Be Done?

While the insurance market remains tough, districts like Turkey Creek can take proactive steps:

• Invest in inspections and maintenance: A clean bill of health makes insurers more willing to engage.
• Partner with public agencies: FEMA and state emergency management offices may offer support or alternative coverage options.
• Advocate for reform: By sharing their stories, districts can push for more equitable insurance practices and funding mechanisms.
  

Cofferdam Gate #2 with gate stiffener installation

What Turkey Creek Has Done

The good news is that Turkey Creek was able to secure insurance from a traditional insurance company this year, which for the most part is only available through the wholesale market from very few insurance companies. Fortunately, the conservancy’s restoration and repairs of the 60+ year old flood control device (dam) include the following:

1. Replaced critical flood control gate parts showing significant wear from over 60+ years of use
2. Application of state of the art, Semco polymer coating to the concrete surfaces to prevent freeze/thaw damage during the winter months and normal deterioration from sun, rain & wind.

Downstread Spillway with SEMCO Coating

1. The building of a “coffer dam” which allows for repair/maintenance of the gates in a water free environment and more effective below water inspections of the flood control gates moving forward. 
2. Above/below water annual inspections
3. A well-documented Emergency Action Plan in cooperation with the Town of Syracuse