Simple Steps to Siphoning
URS Corp., March, 2013
This article discusses a practical approach to the design and implementation of siphons – specifically applicable to small-dam owners and operators. Many older dams were not constructed with an outlet or other means of draining the reservoir. Lowering the reservoir may be needed for temporary construction or for emergency response. Siphons can be a low-cost means of providing a reservoir outlet if one does not exist.
This short article was published in Vol. 1, Iss. 1 of the Western Dam Engineering Technical Note (WDETN) and describes considerations for design and construction of a siphon outlet at a dam. The WDETN was a collaborative effort between the states of Colorado, Montana, New Mexico and Wyoming which was made possible by the FEMA National Dam Safety Program state assistance grants. Special thanks to URS for authoring the article.
Revision ID: 8299
Revision Date: 01/23/2026