Hydraulic Modeling of Boating Hazards and Sedimentation?Union Avenue Dam, Denver Colorado

Pugh, Clifford A.; Klumpp, Cassie C.; ,

Hydraulic Modeling of Boating Hazards and Sedimentation?Union Avenue Dam, Denver Colorado

by Clifford A. Pugh, U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, Denver, United States,
Cassie C. Klumpp, U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, Denver, United States,

Document Type: Proceeding Paper

Part of: Hydraulic Engineering

Abstract:

Hydraulic jump type energy dissipators are a hazard to recreational boaters. Many white water boaters have been trapped in 'reverse roller' hydraulic jumps. Numerous drownings have resulted. The Colorado Water Conservation Board (CWCB) requested the Bureau of Reclamation's assistance in developing a modification to the Union Avenue Dam on the South Platte River in Denver, to reduce risks to recreational boaters while protecting the major functions of the structure. A model study was conducted at Reclamation's hydraulic laboratory in Denver with direction from the CWCB consultant, Wright Water Engineers (WWE). The model was used to develop refinements to the boatchute configuration to improve boatability and safety. Several recommendations were made to reduce construction costs. A water supply intake structure for the city of Englewood located at the dam was studied with respect to sediment buildup and sluicing. A standard boatchute configuration evolved from the Union Avenue study. Flow over the structure during high discharges was also studied to ensure that the flood capacity of the river channel is not affected by the boatchute modifications.

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