DISCUSSION ON THE REMEDIATION TECHNIQUES FOR EARTH DAMS IN KARST GEOLOGIC ENVIRONMENTS

The placement of dams is not always by choice but by the most suitable location to meet expectations from the dam. common geotechnical investigations are often not to the extent necessary to design the dam and perform a full scale analysis. karst topography can sometimes underlay the dam and prove to be a major issue. the nature of karst topography is very complex and at times nearly impossible to model. upon the appearance of issues developed due to karst topography it is imperative to perform a full scale geotechnical subsurface analysis within the area of the proposed dam, downstream of the dam, within the embankment of the dam, and within the reservoir itself. upon first filling the cavities can become washed out and an increase in seepage could be observed. there are a number of techniques available for minimizing or to completely stop the seepage. the following paper discusses common practices for grouting and treatment of seepage in case of specific circumstances.