ASDSO Dam Safety Toolbox

On-Demand Webinar: Understanding and Managing Plant and Animal Intrusions in Embankment Dams and Levees – II

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Association of State Dam Safety Officials, 2021



This two-hour webinar builds upon a previous webinar given in 2015 and highlights the results of recent research and policies developed with respect to plant and animal intrusions into dam and levee embankments. Intrusions by plants and animals into water-retaining embankments have long been of concern for potentially degrading the integrity of these structures. Concerns have ranged from the potential for increased seepage and concentrated leak erosion to reducing the overall embankment cross-section due to tree blowovers. However, successfully managing such intrusions has often been difficult. Recent research provides improved insight on the relative risks of such intrusions as well as where they might be expected and potential mitigation methods for them. The guidance provided in this webinar continues to support the removal of all woody vegetation from embankment dams, particularly those embankment dams that commonly retain water. However, more nuanced approaches are outlined for the management of woody vegetation on levees. Specific remediation measures are discussed for both plant and animal intrusions together with their likely success.


Key Take-aways:

  • Myths and misunderstandings about the effects of woody vegetation on dams and levees – what does recent research tell us.
  • Improved understanding of tree root architecture and potential impacts on embankment integrity and how current one-size-fits-all management schemes will not be successful.
  • Recommended phased/tiered approach for managing woody vegetation.
  • Improved recognition of the consequences of animal burrowing – the embankment termites of dams and levees.
  • Alternatives for the management and mitigation of animal burrowing.


Access Training Here

Speaker(s): Leslie F. Harder


Revision ID: 2336
Revision Date: 08/19/2022