Page 5 - AR811 2023 issue 1

B2023 Arkansas Damage Prevention Summit
ack in Little Rock for 2023 and 2024, the Arkansas Summit kicked off February 20th and ran through the 22nd. 150 damage prevention professionals descended on the Embassy Suites for this unique event! Educational workshops, interesting and relevant sessions and an exhibit hall that wowed the attendees kept the event moving at a fast pace.
Sponsors and exhibitors alike lauded the enthusiasm and interest of attendees, while the attendees were actively involved in the sessions throughout the event.
This year’s show focused on enforcement for the Arkansas dig law. While talking about the long-range benefits of working together for creating support for fair and effective enforcement, it was announced to the audience that SB297 had been filed to strengthen enforcement in Arkansas. The final session was devoted to that bill and much participation from the stakeholders in attendance and even more questions went unanswered.
Already, next year’s agenda is being developed and much of it will revolve around the proposed legislation and if it becomes law, we’ll focus on how to make it sustainable.
We’re thankful for the promises of “can’t wait until next year!” As always, the Damage Prevention Summit strives to create the environment for stakeholder involvement in identifying best practices or possible solutions to issues that impact public safety and disruption of utility services without regard to utility type.
Until then, let’s work together to have a record reduction in damages in Arkansas!
Angela Sartori. Arkansas Public Service Commission presents the latest information and status of enforcement in the state.
Dr. Larry Cole kicks the Summit off with “People Smart Leaders” - how to achieve your potential as a leader.
Jay Prothro, PHMSA gives an update on the role of PHMSA in pipeline safety and PHMSA’s regulatory priorities.
The exhibit hall is always a place for catching up on products, news and services for the industry.
Morning session topics are discussed during lunch.
2023, Issue 1 Arkansas 811 Magazine • 3