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YouTube user Javier Cornejo has posted an interesting video of a scale model of a dam and how flow can seep through it. The water on the upstream side of the dam has had dye added to aid in the visualization of the seepage through the dam.  Additionally, as the seepage has…

In the United States there are primarily two methods of apportioning the use of water by individuals or organizations (for the purposes of agriculture, farming, irrigation):  Riparian (land based) and Prior Appropriation (use base)

One of the most common questions that we receive is how much straight channel is required upstream of a Parshall flume.  The answer is quite simple...

There are several components to measurement errors when using staff (level) gauges to determine flow depth in a flume or weir.  In general, staff gauge reading errors can be attributed to: Distance between the staff gauge and the observer The angle at which the gauge must be…

For those unused to measuring seepage from embankment dams knowing when to measure can sometimes be challenging.  In its Embankment Dam Instrumentation Manual, the Bureau of Reclamation lays out how frequently inspections should be made. Note that the table below indicates…

Seepage through, below, or around an embankment dam is a critical indicator of the health and condition of the dam.  The amount of seepage is normally directly related to the water level in the reservoir.  However, any sudden change in the amount of seepage without an…