By Colten Parr, Meghan Ryan, and Jamie Schroeder

What Is a Dam?  Barrier constructed to contain water flow Sometimes can generate electricity Promotes irrigation Controls flooding in local areas

How Does a Dam Work?  Dams are often triangular for strength  Giant wall withstands pressure  Excess water stored, released when needed  Locks and gates contain water sometimes

Requirements of a Dam  Dams must be water tight  Must have ample strength  Ability to release certain water amounts  Capacity to contain large quantities

Benefits of Dams  Store flood water for human usage  10% of irrigation water from dams  Navigation occurs on dam water  Dam water is good for recreation

Hydroelectric Dams  Water travels to “powerhouse” near dam  Water then spins turbines repeatedly  Electricity is created cleanly and resourcefully

Gravity Dams  Use gravity to advantage  Heavy materials push down  Water pressure doesn’t do much

Arch Dams  Notches cut in stone walls  Curved arch placed in notches  Water pushes the arch into notches

Buttress Dams  Water pushes against the dam wall  Supports push back  The buttresses prevent movement

Embankment Dams  Entirely made of clay and earth  Water resistant soils are specially placed  Dam keeps the water in place

Impact on Environment  Environmentalists hate continued use of dams  Dams interfere with natural processes  Different fish species are affected  Minerals or extra salts may present

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