There are over 79,000 dams in the U.S., many of which are beyond or approaching the end of their intended design life and in urgent need of inspection, analysis, and repair. Dam owners are simultaneously facing a range of complex issues — from the risk of dam failure and loss of reservoir function to the reality of limited funding and the need to achieve regulatory compliance.

Our Approach  |  Proven Experience

Our Approach

Whether we are helping a client respond to a directive from a regulatory agency or simply improving the reliability of an existing reservoir or dam, we understand that in order to be successful, each dam engineering project requires a comprehensive and balanced understanding of technical, regulatory, and environmental issues. Furthermore, prioritizing the many needs competing for funding at a dam site is essential for finding practical approaches to managing the risks associated with dam operation and helping owners strive toward an acceptable level of dam safety practice.

Malcolm Pirnie’s dam engineering staff takes a comprehensive approach to our client’s needs. Throughout our history, we have been at the forefront of water resources and water supply development in the U.S.  Starting in the 1940’s, when much of the water supply infrastructure was being built in North America, Malcolm Pirnie helped lead the way with the design of over 18 large dams and reservoirs in the U.S., Canada, and Puerto Rico, as well as many smaller reservoir projects around the country.  As our experience shows, our tradition of providing quality dam engineering and dam safety services continues today.

While the design of new dams in the U.S has slowed significantly in the last 25 years, Malcolm Pirnie’s staff continues to plan and design new dams, as well as rehabilitate existing dams in the U.S. and abroad. Our staff, including recognized experts in dam engineering and hydraulics, has extensive experience with earthfill, rockfill, concrete gravity, masonry, and roller compacted concrete dams. This breadth of experience forms the basis for how we consult with dam owners and how we establish the right approach to manage the inherent uncertainty associated with the condition and behavior of most any dam.

Proven Experience

Safeguarding a Critical Dam and Reservoir After a Hurricane

Rehabilitating an Aging Recreational Dam