The Benton County Economic Development (BCED) committee members made a tour of the Harry S. Truman Lake Powerhouse on January 24 as part of their monthly meeting, along with Congressman Mark Alford and his staff. A staff member from the office of U.S. Senator Eric Schmitt also attended.
“Long ago, the public could tour the powerhouse, but not anymore,” said Jo Ann Lane, BCED Director. “Our committee was excited to be able to schedule a tour during our last Wednesday of the month meeting, and to be accompanied by Congressman Alford.”
Congressman Alford’s office issued a statement after visiting the powerhouse reporting that he and his team look forward to continuing support (in Washington D.C.) for this site and community.
“Truman Lake Powerhouse plays a pivotal role in not only the health of the lake, but the area as a whole,” said the congressman. “On our tour, we had the opportunity to see the inner workings of a slant axis turbine powerhouse, one of the only slant axis powerhouses in the country. Seeing this facility up close and personal gave me and my team a profound appreciation for all it does. We are so blessed to have Truman Lake Dam in our district.”
Brandon Ward, Powerplant Superintendent at U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, was with the touring guests. He said that tours are normally done within the agency, but public tours were limited after 9ll when security was increased. He said the powerhouse was doing great even though more power is needed in cold weather. When asked about the difference between a slant axis turbine powerhouse and other powerhouses, he said that they were more economical to build, but not necessarily more efficient. https://issuu.com reports that slant axis turbine powerhouses have a unique design that allows more generation to be packed into a smaller area.
The Harry S. Truman Dam and Reservoir was originally named Kaysinger Bluff Dam and Reservoir when construction was authorized in 1954. Actual construction began in August 1964 and it was renamed in honor of President Truman who was from Missouri. The dam was completed in 1979.
Congressman Alford represents Missouri’s 4th District in Congress. He assumed office on January 3, 2023, and holds the seat formerly filled by Congresswoman Vicky Hartzler.
