Skip to main content
ARS Home » Plains Area » El Reno, Oklahoma » Oklahoma and Central Plains Agricultural Research Center » Agroclimate and Hydraulics Research Unit » Research » Publications at this Location » Publication #404134
Research Project: Development of a Monitoring Network, Engineering Tools, and Guidelines for the Design, Analysis, and Rehabilitation of Embankment Dams, Hydraulic Structures, and Channels

Location: Agroclimate and Hydraulics Research Unit

Title: RCC stepped spillways for embankment dams workshop

Author
item Hunt, Sherry
item CROOKSTON, BRIAN - Utah State University
item DIECHERT, ANDY - Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS, USDA)
item BASS, RANDY - Schnabel Engineering
item Kadavy, Kem

Submitted to: Association of State Dam Safety Officials Newsletter
Publication Type: Other
Publication Acceptance Date: 9/21/2023
Publication Date: N/A
Citation: N/A

Interpretive Summary:

Technical Abstract: Stepped spillways applied to embankment dams are commonly used in the rehabilitation of aging dams to increase the capacity of the dam to pass large design storms. The objective of this workshop is to provide an overview of the stepped chute research utilized to develop a comprehensive list of generalized standard design criteria for stepped chutes applied to embankment dams. Specifically, the workshop will include topics on design of stepped chutes, both converging and non-converging; associated stilling basin and rock apron; the use of labyrinth weirs in conjunction with stepped chutes; effects of beveled steps; computational fluid dynamics modeling of stepped spillways; case studies; and the latest trends in roller compacted concrete mixes (RCC) that provides better long-term durability particularly is harsh freeze thaw environments. By the conclusion of the workshop, end-users will have the tools and knowledge they need for determining basic hydraulic design parameters for stepped chute spillways and how advances in RCC mixes can extend the service life of these spillways that are applied to embankment dams. USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.