This course is based on 50 years of NRCS experience with investigating and remediating cracked earth embankments. The presentation consists of two main sections, covering: 1) the nature of soil cracking and the associated internal erosion failure modes; and 2) how to remediate cracked earth embankments. In the first section, general information is presented on which soils are most susceptible to cracking and which pose the greatest risk for fa...

The seminar provides comprehensive instruction in inspection and evaluation techniques for dams. The principles, concepts and procedures taught will be readily adaptable to any organization conducting dam inspections and evaluating their compliance with current design standards. Participants learn about a variety of dam types and their appurtenances, the function of typical dam features, and common dam failure modes and the conditions that can...

In this classroom seminar, participants will gain a practical knowledge of methods for simulation of runoff from storm rainfall. The methods covered relate to the processing of historical and hypothetical (design-storm) rainfall data; estimation of losses (infiltration); transformation of rainfall excess to direct runoff with unit hydrographs; routing of flood waves; calibration of model parameters; and modeling of runoff from watersheds. Expe...

The objective of this course will be to provide a comprehensive presentation of the significant principles and concepts of soil mechanics to the participants. The material will be presented with emphasis on the basic soil mechanics principles prerequisite to further study for design or rehabilitation of earth embankment dams. This is a basic level course intended as an introduction for those with minimal to moderate knowledge or experience in...

The objective of this course is to provide a general understanding of conduits, valves and gates in the context of the operation, maintenance and design of dams and dam safety. Emphasis will be placed on issues related to the design, construction, and performance of conduits, values, and gates types commonly used at dams. Case histories and practical exercises will be used to enhance learning of the purposes and features of conduits, valves, a...

The seminar provides comprehensive instruction in inspection and evaluation techniques for dams. The principles, concepts and procedures taught will be readily adaptable to any organization conducting dam inspections and evaluating their compliance with current design standards. Participants learn about a variety of dam types and their appurtenances, the function of typical dam features, and common dam failure modes and the conditions that can...

As dams deteriorate, or as their purpose and benefits diminish, there may come a time when the appropriate action is to decommission the dam. For some dams, this can be a very simple, rapid and inexpensive undertaking. For other dams, it can be a very complex and costly process, requiring years to accomplish. The purpose of this webinar is to provide an overview of recent trends in dam decommissioning in the United States with an emphasis on t...