Foundation Evaluation
From ASDSO Dam Safety Toolbox
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| A diagram of piping through an embankment dam's foundation. (FERC) |
According to the Association of State Dam Safety Officials (ASDSO), the five most likely causes of dam failures are: overtopping, foundation defects, cracking, inadequate maintenance and upkeep, and piping.[1] In order to prevent a dam failure, a properly designed foundation is essential.
“The earth embankment and its foundation must be stable and withstand all anticipated loads without movements leading to failure. Provide measures for adequate seepage control under all anticipated loads.” [2]
Types of Foundation Evaluations
The situations below are common issues examined through foundation evaluation:
Examples
Best Practices Resources
Technical Release 210-60: Earth Dams and Reservoirs
Trainings
Citations:
Revision ID: 3113
Revision Date: 09/14/2022