First, statically, meaning how likely and how vulnerable a dam may potentially be to seepage and internal erosion. All dams seep, but seepage is controlled through countermeasures in the design and construction phases, and there are tolerance levels for certain amounts of acceptable seepage. Second, hydro logically, meaning how likely and how vulnerable a dam may be to a sudden increase of water that forces the dam to hold more water that it was designed. Third, seismically, meaning how likely and how vulnerable a dam may be to a large earthquake. Reclamation dams, canals and pipelines are on a rigid inspection schedule to insure the agency is continuously aware of the condition of its facilities.
Damsite evaluations take place in a number of ways.
Dam tenders, people who live at or visit the dam regularly, perform ongoing visual inspections. Dams are also evaluated on a yearly basis by the office responsible for its routine operation and maintenance. In Utah, most Reclamation dams are the responsibility of the Provo Area Office. Finally, in addition the the yearly evaluation, comprehensive facility reviews are conducted by Reclamation's Denver Technical Center every six years. All of our projects adhere to the strictest standards of safety and operation.