Go With the Flow - Assessing Scour Erosion in Pittsburgh Lock and Dam structures
At Seaside Engineering and Surveying (SEAS), we’re dedicated to supporting the stability and safety of our nation’s infrastructure. Recently, we partnered with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) in Pittsburgh to perform critical underwater surveys at lock and dam projects. These structures play a crucial role in managing waterways, but over time, water can erode their foundations, potentially weakening them. That’s where our team steps in.
How We Help Keep Dams Safe
Using advanced technology like hydrographic multibeam and high-resolution side scan sonar, we assessed scour erosion – a process where fast-moving water wears away at the foundation of dams and other structures. By conducting follow-up surveys, we can monitor any undercutting or significant erosion that might affect key parts of the dam, such as piers, aprons, lock chamber walls, and abutments. This type of continuous monitoring is vital for identifying early signs of damage, ensuring that repairs can be made before problems escalate.
Why This Matters to You
You might wonder why erosion monitoring at lock and dam structures is important to the everyday person. These structures do more than control water flow; they’re essential for preventing floods, supporting navigation for shipping, and maintaining a steady water supply for communities and industries. If these structures were to fail due to unchecked erosion, it could lead to catastrophic flooding, disrupt transportation routes, and compromise water access. By helping to maintain the stability of these dams, we’re not only protecting the infrastructure but also safeguarding the communities and industries that depend on these waterways.
At SEAS, we take pride in contributing to the long-term safety of these vital structures, ensuring that our waterways remain functional and secure for future generations. Our commitment to innovation and precision is what keeps us at the forefront of erosion assessment and monitoring, partnering with agencies like the USACE to protect the infrastructure that matters most.