Aswan High Dam: What is it?

There are two dams in Aswan controlling the Nile River and generating hydroelectric power. The Aswan High Dam caused controversy due to potential environmental damage. The first Aswan Low Dam was built by the British to control flooding. The Aswan High Dam was built in the 1960s with Soviet help after other countries reneged on […]

Hoover Dam Bypass: what is it?

The Hoover Dam Bypass, opened in 2010, diverts traffic from US Highway 93 to relieve congestion and increase safety. The 3.5-mile corridor connects Clark County, Nevada and Mohave County, Arizona, and includes a bridge over the Colorado River. The bypass has significantly reduced traffic flow and is expected to see a 50% increase in traffic […]

What’s an earth dam?

Earth dams are embankment-type dams made of compacted earth, rock, and clay. They are cost-effective and can be designed with drainage layers, but can also be a safety concern if poorly engineered. Routine inspection and maintenance are necessary. They can be used for hydroelectric power, water supply, and flood control. An earth dam is a […]

What’s Hoover Dam?

Hoover Dam is a large concrete dam on the Colorado River in the southwestern United States, completed in 1936 and named after US President Herbert Hoover. It forms the Lake Mead reservoir and produces electricity from hydroelectric generators. The dam is a major tourist attraction and the surrounding area is a National Recreation Area. The […]

What’s Open Source DAM?

Open source digital asset management is a software-based way of storing and organizing digital files. It is becoming increasingly important for businesses and individuals. Open source software is free and can be modified by anyone. Commercial digital asset management programs offer different levels of asset protection, while open source programs offer greater flexibility in design […]

Check dam: what is it?

Check dams are small dams made of various materials used for sediment and pollutant removal, irrigation, and livestock. They’re often built across storm drains, small streams, or swales. They’re practical in poor areas and used in bioswales to remove pollutants. Stone, rock, and log check dams are common types. They require frequent inspections and maintenance. […]

Hydro dam: what is it?

Hydroelectric dams generate power from flowing or falling water, using a turbine to spin a generator and create electricity. They are often built on large rivers with a large drop, and can use multiple reservoirs to meet fluctuating energy demands. Hydroelectric power is a renewable energy source with minimal pollution production, but the environmental impact […]

What’s a flood dam?

Flood control dams protect communities from uncontrolled flood waters and can be installed by government agencies and communities. They control the flow of water across a watershed and can be designed with outlets and emergency spillways. Funding for flood control programs typically comes from government agencies. A dam operates as part of a flood control […]

What’s a dam?

Seawalls are structures built to protect shorelines from flooding and erosion. They can be made from various materials and can also provide recreational space. Different types of seawalls exist, including those built on the shore or in the water. Traditional dams are made of rocks and pebbles, while modern ones can incorporate concrete and metal […]

What’s the Three Gorges Dam?

The Three Gorges Dam is the world’s largest hydroelectric dam, producing 84.7 billion kW of energy annually. It reduces coal consumption and serves as flood control. However, it negatively affects the environment and society, causing displacement and endangering species. The Three Gorges Dam is the largest hydroelectric dam in the world, spanning the Yangtze River […]

What’s a concrete dam?

Concrete dams are built to retain water for flood control, power generation, and water management. They are made of water, cement, sand, and aggregate. Almost all modern dams are made of concrete due to its strength. There are three basic designs: arch, gravity, and gravity arch. Roll-compacted concrete is a good type for construction. Dams […]

Skip to content