Reclamation's Safety of Dams Program
"To ensure Reclamation dams do not present unacceptable risk to
people, property, and the environment."
Under its Dam Safety Program, the Bureau of Reclamation (Reclamation) regularly monitors, examines and evaluates the performance of dams in its inventory to ensure facilities do not present unreasonable risks to the public, property, or the environment. Issues are evaluated in terms of loading conditions, structural response and the potential consequences of dam failure. Reclamation strives to provide adequate protection from inherent risks. When risks are determined to be unreasonable, corrective actions are formulated and implemented
Safety of Dams Process
The SOD Program involves a four-pronged approach:
Inspection and Review: A Comprehensive Facility Review (CFR) is performed every 6 years and a Periodic 
Facility Review is performed halfway through the CFR cycle so that major reviews are accomplished every 3 years. Annual reviews are performed during the other years. The Comprehensive Review not only examines the dam itself, but also examines other issues over the years, such as construction reports, documentation, and observations -- compared with new information, new technology, and current engineering practices on dam safety.
Issue Evaluation: This phase involves additional studies, usually stemming from recommendations made during the CFR process such as evaluation of foundation deposits for liquefaction, evaluation of structural components to withstand earthquakes, evaluation of new hydrological information, and many other aspects of the dam or changes in understanding of loading conditions (such as seismic, static, or hydrologic).
Corrective Action Study: If sufficient justification to reduce risk is identified during the Issue Evaluation and there are sufficient benefits from the project, a Corrective Action Study is performed. In this phase, various alternatives are explored to reduce risks to an acceptable level. Operational changes and potential modifications are considered. Constraints are examined such as environmental, economical, constructability, feasibility and interim operations. Alternatives are developed and investigated to fix the problem, and the best alternative is chosen.
Design/Modification: This phase begins with collection of design data. Design data investigations may include evaluation of materials within the dam embankment, foundation, and/or materials to be imported to be used during construction. It usually also includes survey and photogrammetry. Design of the modification progresses as design data is gathered and includes a value engineering analysis. Once the design and associated specification package are complete, the project is issued for bid. The successful contractor submits proposals to accomplish each phase of the modification. Reclamation oversees the contractor’s construction activities, including testing of materials and assuring that the contractors work meets specifications. Upon project completion, the dam is returned to the beginning of this cycle (Inspection and Review).
For additional information, please contact MP Region Safety of Dams or call 916-978-5537
Last updated on: February 13, 2013