DAM IT 2.0

In September 2026, emergency responders, public safety agencies, and partner organizations from across the region will gather for the DAM IT 2.0 Exercise at Cowan Lake. The multi-agency training event will bring together personnel from fire, EMS, law enforcement, emergency management, weather services, and state partners for a day focused on coordination, communication, and decision-making during a complex weather-related emergency scenario.

The tabletop exercise will challenge participants to work through rapidly evolving conditions, test public information procedures, and strengthen unified command operations between agencies. Drone teams, emergency operations personnel, and field responders will all play a role in the scenario, helping improve situational awareness and operational coordination throughout the exercise.

Exercises like DAM IT 2.0 are an important part of maintaining readiness in Clinton County and the surrounding region. While residents may never see the behind-the-scenes planning that goes into these events, the partnerships built during training help agencies work more effectively together during real-world incidents ranging from severe weather to transportation emergencies and large-scale public safety events.

Organizers note that one of the biggest strengths of the exercise will be the collaboration between local, county, state, and regional partners. The training will also provide an opportunity to identify future improvements, strengthen communications pathways, and continue developing coordinated response concepts for the future.

By the conclusion of the exercise, participants are expected to leave with valuable lessons learned, stronger professional relationships, and a renewed commitment to preparedness across Clinton County and neighboring jurisdictions.