Earth dams, a study

By: Burr Bassell

A silent morning on the banks of a newly raised embankment reveals the quiet power of human ingenuity, where earth and water meet in a delicate balance shaped by both nature and engineering. The enduring challenge of constructing earth dams-where the stability of soil and the force of water are in constant dialogue-unfolds with clarity and precision in this seminal study. Drawing on the principles of hydraulic engineering and soil mechanics, the work explores the intricacies of dam engineering, from the earliest stages of design to the critical nuances of maintenance and safety. Through careful analysis and practical insight, it illuminates the structural demands of water retention structures and the persistent threat of flood control, offering a lucid examination of embankment dam design that remains strikingly relevant for those invested in civil engineering and the stewardship of natural resources. What sets this volume apart is its measured, authoritative voice, guiding readers through the complexities of earthen dam stability without losing sight of the broader human and environmental stakes. Each page is grounded in real-world challenges, from the subtle art of dam maintenance to the sobering lessons of dam failure analysis, making it not only a technical reference but also a testament to the evolving relationship between society and the landscapes it seeks to shape. This book was out of print for decades and is now republished by Alpha Editions. It has been restored for today's and future generations. This edition is not just a reprint - it's a collector's item and a cultural treasure. For those drawn to the history of engineering, the enduring questions of flood control, or the quiet drama of shaping land and water, this restored work offers both knowledge and lasting significance.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 9374596172
• ISBN13: 9789374596173
• Release Date: May 2026
• Publisher: Alpha Edition
• Length: 74 Pages
• Weight: 0.25 lbs.
• Dimensions: 9.0" x 0.2" x 6.0"