Multi-year project to mitigate seepage in dam embankment
The Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) is remediating the Boone Dam to repair seepage through the dam’s foundation. TVA has selected Black & Veatch as engineer of record responsible for the design and quality assurance of the fast-track project.
The Boone Dam was built in the early 1950s on the original channel of the South Holston River. It provides hydroelectric power, water supply and flood control for the region.
TVA has a robust Dam Safety Program with comprehensive inspections, monitoring and regular “health checks” to thoroughly analyze conditions at all of its dams. In 2014, TVA employees trained to identify safety issues as part of the overall Dam Safety Program discovered a network of seepage pathways through the dam’s foundation.
TVA’s top priority at Boone Dam is the safety of its employees and the general public. TVA has lowered water elevation at the reservoir while seepage mitigation measures are designed and implemented. The dam and surrounding structures are continuously monitored so that any potential issues or changes in their condition can be identified in their earliest stages. Due to the impact on the region due to lower water elevation, TVA expedited the project and construction work has already begun. TVA is committed to repairing Boone Dam as quickly, effectively and safely as possible. The reservoir is expected to return to normal operation in five to seven years.
“TVA has been very proactive in addressing the restoration needs for Boone Dam to ensure it will continue to provide ample electric power and water supplies for regional residents,” said Cindy Wallis-Lage, President of Black & Veatch’s water business.
“We have a long history of effectively completing fast-track projects and our professionals will apply this expertise on this vital remediation work.”
Cindy Wallis-Lage, President of Black & Veatch’s water business
Editor’s Notes:
- Black & Veatch worked recently on the McCook and Thornton Reservoir projects in the Chicago area involving grout curtains up to 400 feet deep.
- The company has been responsible for the analysis, design or construction of more than 1,500 dams in 20 countries.
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