This document provides a straightforward, realistic, and executable Strategic Plan for the National Dam Safety Program (NDSP) based on the most efficient and effective uses of NDSP resources to reduce losses from dam failures in the United States. The goals, objectives, strategies, and priorities will serve as formal guidelines for all NDSP efforts. FEMA developed this Strategic Plan in coordination with the NDSP's two advisory boards: the National Dam Safety Review Board and the Interagency Committee on Dam Safety. The continued success of the NDSP hinges on the linked roles of the Federal, State, and private partners, all of which have independent responsibilities related to dam safety. These partnerships are predicated on a common vision and shared mission, which serve as the basis of Program direction and planning. The Plan presents the goals and objectives established by FEMA and its partners in the NDSP to reduce the hazards from dam failures in the United States. To achieve the goals and objectives, the Plan identifies the following supporting activities in the program areas funded under the Dam Safety Act of 2006: State assistance; research; training; and data collection, tracking, and analysis using the National Inventory of Dams (NID). This Plan provides a straightforward strategy for meeting Program goals and objectives. Successful execution of this Plan will involve refining existing policies, being responsiveness to legislative requirements, and aligning with FEMA initiatives and priorities for all of its programs. The pace of accomplishing the goals and objectives and the strategic priorities discussed above will depend on the resources available to the Program during FY 2012 through 2016. The Program will keep members and stakeholders abreast of advancements in science and technology, and adjust short- and long-term objectives and developmental efforts accordingly. The NDSP and its partners will remain focused on the elements of this Strategic Plan, but will adapt to contingencies and opportunities that may arise. If a dam failure occurs in the United States during the Plan period, the NDSP will initiate efforts to study the effects of that failure, including successes, failures, and unforeseen problems that arose in mitigation, emergency management, response, and recovery practices and policies. FEMA P-916.