Picture This: A 3-D Subsurface Model to Support Dam Design

Stantec completed Preliminary Design of the Eagle Creek Flood Basin, which will reduce the risk of flooding in Findlay, Ohio. Stantec completed over 100 geotechnical borings along the proposed embankment alignment (3.75 miles) and within the basin footprint (765 acres). Characterizing subsurface conditions was critical for design. Earth Volumetric Studio software by C Tech (EVS) was used to generate three-dimensional subsurface lithological and hydrostratigraphic models of the site. These models provided a method to interpolate and visualize the subsurface conditions between boring locations and estimate the consistency of a natural, low-permeability soil blanket. The model was also used to map soils susceptible to seepage and liquefaction. The modeling helped quantify and outline the extents of suitable borrow material while reducing the risk of compromising the upstream natural blanket. The EVS models provided a means to support designs of the embankment, seepage cutoffs, drainage features, and structure foundations.