Leakage is a major safety issue that, if left unchecked, may result in dam failure by various mechanisms. However, a lack of appropriate leakage investigation and monitoring can result in repairs that are unsuccessful in controlling or reducing leakage. A series of techniques have been developed to help in the assessment of leakage and seepage in dams. These techniques allow for identification of recharge zones, preferential paths, and transit times, which aid in monitoring and mitigating the dam leakage. The presentation describes various techniques and reviews several projects in the United States and abroad involving detection and prevention of dam and reservoir leakage, including leakage evaluation, analysis, design, construction, and post-construction verification of repairs.

Bio: Bethany Kelly is a geotechnical engineer with Barr Engineering in Minneapolis. Bethany earned a BS in Civil Engineering from Michigan State University and a MS in Geological Engineering from Montana Tech. She specializes primarily in dam engineering, typically working with mining and power clients.