1. (1) When, in the opinion of the department, an emergency condition exists which poses an imminent threat to life, the department may take such action as necessary to eliminate or mitigate the hazard and potential consequences. The dam owner or the owner's agent(s) may be directed to take actions, and if that failing, the department may take control of the project and take actions, including, but not limited to:

   1. (a) Altering the operation of the project;
   2. (b) Lowering the reservoir water level;
   3. (c) Draining the reservoir;
   4. (d) Making emergency repairs or modifications to the project;
   5. (e) Enlisting the services of federal, state, or local authorities to make emergency repairs or modifications to the project;
   6. (f) Breaching the dam.
2. (2) All costs incurred by the department as a result of taking control of the project will be charged to the owner.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 43.21A.064, [43.21A.]080 and 86.16.061. WSR 92-12-055 (Order 91-17), § 173-175-610, filed 6/1/92, effective 7/2/92.]