Lessons Learned

Regular operation, maintenance, and inspection of dams is important to the early detection and prevention of dam failure.

Seemingly minor problems with instrumentation and dam appurtenances can escalate into major incidents and dam failure.

Seepage along penetrations through embankment dams should be controlled using a filter diaphragm instead of anti-seep collars.

Site security is a critical aspect of dam safety that shouldn't be overlooked or disregarded.

Stability of the dam foundation and other geologic features must be considered during dam design.

Static liquefaction should be considered as a potential failure mode for dams that have loose sands or silts in their embankments or foundations.

The first filling of a reservoir should be planned, controlled, and monitored.

The hazard classification of a dam can change over time (hazard creep).