Pickwick Dam, campground losing TVA police protection

Feb. 17– Hardin County is losing a local law enforcement agency.

The Tennessee Valley Authority announced today its TVA Police & Physical Security organization is "realigning its operations and structure to enhance security at TVA’s non-nuclear power facilities."

TVA is ending uniformed patrols, increasing the use of security technology, and stationing contract guards 24 hours a day at critical TVA locations.

That means no more TVA police officers at Pickwick Dam and the affiliated campground, according to TVA spokesman Travis Brickey, who said a total of 61 officers across the TVA service area will be laid off.

David Jolley, vice president of TVA Police & Physical Security, said, "By focusing more of our non-nuclear security resources on our critical infrastructure, we will be in a better position to address the new and increasingly sophisticated threats facing the energy industry."

Security technology will be increased to provide improved protection at hydro plants, substations, distribution centers and other facilities. Contract guards are already being employed at five fossil plants and will now be used across the fleet, TVA said.

"TVA officers drive as much as 300 miles in a shift and may be as much as two hours away from an area that requires their response," Jolley said. "At campgrounds, recreation areas and other properties, TVA will continue to work with local law enforcement to provide appropriate response.

"Our realignment will better protect our employees and improve security at our power assets as TVA continues to focus on improved performance of our core business priorities," he said.

Security for TVA’s nuclear plants is not affected.

Brickey said the layoffs go into effect in 60 days.