US Corps of Engineers
Hensley Lake Water Safety Action Plan (FY25)
Location: U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Hidden Dam, Hensley Lake
Objective: Improve public safety and awareness around water through education, signage, equipment readiness, community partnerships, and outreach.
1. Signage & Public Messaging
Highway Advisory Sign: Year-round water safety messages at Hidden View Recreation Area entrance.
Phone System: Voicemail includes staff water safety messages.
Bulletin Boards & Banners: Water safety awareness posted at public boards and strategic areas.
Boat Ramps & High-Use Areas: Stenciled safety messages.
Ranger Buck Cut-Out: Visual mascot at headquarters to reinforce safety messages.
Recreation One Stop Receipts: Printed with water safety reminders.
2. Equipment Maintenance & Preparedness
Readiness Checks: Includes boats, trailers, docks, PPE, rescue stations, and loaner life jackets.
Water Safety Rescue Stations: Equipped with reach poles, Type VI PFDs, and signage, repositioned as needed.
Loaner Life Jacket Stations: 8 total — 4 at Hidden View, 3 at Buck Ridge, 1 at HQ.
3. Staff Training & Operations
Certifications Maintained: CPR, AED, First Aid, Bloodborne Pathogens, Emergency Response, Boat Operation.
Patrol Scheduling: Optimal coverage for both land and water patrols.
4. Educational Programming & Outreach
Interpretive Programs: Every program includes a water safety message.
On-site Focus During Peak Season: Minimized off-site outreach to maximize in-park engagement.
Annual Off-Season Goal: Reach over 3,000 students/visitors via off-site outreach.
Hazard Education: Special emphasis on submerged hazards.
Special Events with Safety Focus:
Kid’s Fishing Day
National Public Lands Day
Warrior’s Day on the Lake (USACE event)
5. Partnerships & Community Engagement
Courtesy Vessel Inspections: With U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary.
Material Distribution: Through CA Department of Boating & Waterways and during visitor contact.
Community Programs Participation: Includes Raymond Parade, local fairs.
Agency Collaborations: Central Valley Children’s Hospital, CAL FIRE, Fresno County Office of Education, etc.
Summary
Hensley Lake’s water safety plan is a robust, multi-faceted initiative combining infrastructure, education, community engagement, and enforcement to reduce water-related incidents. The emphasis is on proactive outreach and partnerships while ensuring the lake and recreation areas are equipped, staffed, and messaged for maximum safety impact.
