KEG provided geotechnical engineering, analysis, and construction testing services during the exploration, design, and construction phases of the state-mandated rehabilitation of this non-compliant high-hazard dam. KEG performed geotechnical explorations at the site to determine existing soil conditions for use in stability and seepage analyses. These analyses were required for design of the embankment remediation. Geotechnical explorations included performance of soil test borings and gathering of undisturbed and bulk samples for laboratory testing. Laboratory testing was performed to determine the shear strength and permeability characteristics of existing embankment and proposed borrow soils. These characteristics were used during two-dimensional seepage and embankment stability analyses of the dam remediation.
KEG worked closely with the client, civil designer, contractor, and the NC Department of Environment and Natural Resources (NCDENR) to develop responsive solutions during the design and construction phases of this project. KEG provided geotechnical reports, design sheets, geotechnical specifications, and laboratory data for NCDENR approval. The responsiveness of KEG engineers and field technicians to difficult and variable field conditions during construction kept the project moving forward during the fall and winter of 2011-2012. Of special note is that the remediation of the existing dam embankment was successfully performed while continuing to impound Cashiers Lake, a special requirement of the client.
