Placer County Water Agency (PCWA) contracted with MacKay Sposito and Mesa Associates to test the effectiveness of its Emergency Action Plan (EAP) for the Middle Fork American River Project (FERC License No. 2079-CA). The EAP details emergency notification procedures for PCWA’s three major dams. Our goal was to conduct a Functional Exercise that properly tested the plan, engaged and trained plan holders and stakeholders, and maximized the opportunity to improve the EAP and its protocols. After a site visit and interviews with PCWA staff, our team developed simulation scenarios and messaging, provided technical logistics, and facilitated both Table-top and Functional Exercises.
The table-top event was a webinar-based meeting to familiarize participants with the EAP, and help prepare them for the Functional Exercise to help maximize effectiveness. The Functional Exercise included a detailed situation that tested the effectiveness of the Emergency Action Plan. Through a series of messages delivered via phone, radio, and email, we engaged over 70 participants and observants in a simulated emergency situation. Our final deliverable includes an attendee list, summary of findings and feedback, a detailed contact log documenting outreach attempts, and an action plan to improve the EAP in the near future.
Our public involvement team was heavily involved in every aspect of participant communication, event logistics, and coordination to ensure our participants were prepared for each event. This support was invaluable as these exercises include stakeholders from dozens of agencies. They help ensure consistency in branding, messaging, and event continuity.
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