This paper presents a case of an earth dam in the Southwest in which cracks developed. When cracks were discovered, engineers made an extensive investigation with test pits, borings, laboratory testing, and a detailed system of piezometers to measure water pressures within the dam's shell, core, and foundation. Based upon these data, engineers had to make decisions about repair and remedial measures. Such decisions are difficult for the Owner, Engineer, and Regulator, and each has a different approach to such a decision. Evaluation of the cracks requires identifying potential failure mechanisms, and making conclusions about the likelihood of failure. This paper examines the difficulty in diagnosing the severity/significance of these cracks, and making decisions about the need for repair/remedial measures. The paper presents acquired geotechnical data and the theorized causes of cracks.
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