Riverbank Stability and Monitoring at Grand Coulee Dam

by David W. Harris, US Bureau of Reclamation, Denver, CO, USA,
Richard A. Shoemaker, US Bureau of Reclamation, Denver, CO, USA,



Document Type: Proceeding Paper

Part of: Waterpower '85

Abstract:

The capability for hydroelectric power generation at Grand Coulee Dam was substantially increased following construction of the third powerplant in the mid 1970s. Increased river fluctuations resulting from this expansion necessitated stability analyses and the establishment of a monitoring program for 6 miles of riverbanks immediately downstream from the dam. Stabilization features, including slope reshaping, shafts with radial drains, and pumped drainage wells, are being implemented to enchance stability of the riverbanks during future planned river operations. A computerized system for monitoring various instruments along the riverbanks is being developed to provide an early warning of potential slope instability.

Subject Headings: River bank stabilization | Hydro power | Dams | Power plants | Drainage wells | Slope stability | Rivers and streams

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