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Pond Dam Repair

Nontypcl1

Nontypcl1

Member
The past few years of above normal rainfall and flooding weakened the dam to my overflow pond and this spring it gave way. The water eroded away a section in the dam about 2' wide by 4' deep, causing a 2' deep gully about 30 yards long right through the field I'm planting to NWSG.

I was wondering what would be the best way to repair the dam? I have a bobcat and tractor on hand and a large amount of clay leftover from a construction project. I thought about just dumping bucket loads of clay in and then tamping with the bucket and by hand until filled and solid. I've never had to repair a dam before so I don't know if this is would be effective or not.

I will also be improving the tile system that drains this pond as well. There is also an old overflow channel that is supposed to divert water to a drainage ditch when the tile is unable to keep up. I would think that as long as the tile is in proper working order and the channel is sloped properly then there shouldn't be a lot of pressure on the dam, but I may be wrong.

Any thought?
 
We develop land for a living, and have had this happen in our subdivisions before. You need to grade the washout out so you can drive equipment across the dike. Refill it with clay, layering it or "lifting it" up in 12 inch lifts. The best way to compact it with out a roller or sheeps foot is to run it back and forth with a small piece of equipment (bobcat) with the bucket loaded with clay (the wetter the better, more weight). This maxes your psi to compact with. Finally, if you can get your hands on any bentonite, layer that in before you start your lifts. it is a naturally occuring substance that expands when it gets wet. It will prevent you from having a "seam" that will leak after you complete the repair. Oh ya, don't forget to compact the grading before you start your lifts. Its a pain, but just dumping dirt in it is asking for trouble down the road. the water will seep into the less compacted soil. Good luck
 
Leaking ponds

Search the net for leaking ponds and there is a ton of info.
do you know if that pond has bentonite as a liner?
 
Visit your local agricultural supply company to obtain bentonite or a chemical pond sealant. Unless your pond dam is severely compromised (which would be very clear as water would be visibly pouring out the other side of the dam), an application of these substances according to manufacturers' directions will solve the problem.
 
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