Topic outline

  • Principles of Earth Spillway Design

    Credits: 1 PDH

    PDH Course Description:

    This course is based on Chapter 50 of the National Engineering Handbook, published by the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS). This publication provides guidance on the design of earth spillways.

    Earth spillways are typically constructed of soil and/or rock materials and are used to safely convey excess water from a dam or other water control structure. The publication covers topics such as spillway selection, hydraulic design, erosion protection, and construction considerations.

    It emphasizes the importance of spillway integrity, which is the measure of a spillway's resistance to breaching failure, and provides detailed guidance on how to ensure spillway stability and integrity. The publication also includes helpful design examples and case studies. Overall, Chapter 50 provides valuable information for engineers, designers, and others involved in the design and construction of earth spillways.

    Topics:

    Introduction to Earth Spillways
    • Spillway Selection Considerations
    • Hydraulic Design of Earth Spillways
    • Spillway Erosion Protection
    • Spillway Construction Considerations
    • Design Examples and Case Studies
    • Maintenance and Inspection of Earth Spillways
    • Monitoring and Instrumentation for Earth Spillways
    • Emergency Action Plans (EAPs) for Earth Spillways
    • Spillway Decommissioning

    To take this course:

    1.) Enroll in Course: Click below to enroll:
    (must be logged into your user account)


    2.) Study: Once enrolled, click below to begin the course:

    Download the Study Guide

    3.) Test: Once you've thoroughly read the course materials, please click below to take the final examination.

    Take the final exam

    4.) Certificate: A passing grade of 70% or higher on the exam, is required to receive the certificate of completion for this PDH course.
         NOTE: After the exam is completed, you will need to return to this page, in order to print (download) the certificate of completion.

    Print the Certificate of Completion

    Intended Audience: This course is intended for environmental, civil, hydraulic, geotechnical, and other engineering professionals whose job description may require a general knowledge of earth spillway design.
    Publication Source: USDA NRCS

    Harlan Bengtson, PhD, PE

    • Topic 1