Development of Hydraulic Structures

The Bureau of Reclamation was established in 1902. Since that time, Reclamation has constructed more than 220 dams. Each dam, depending on its function, has two or more principal hydraulic structures. The main hydraulic structures are the spillway and the outlet works. The change in concept of these structures and their energy dissipators as developed by Reclamation from 1902 to the present (1988) is described. Included are stepped spillways, labyrinth spillways, traditional chute and tunnel spillways, and many types of energy dissipators. The emphasis during this period has been to establish standards for many hydraulic structures, to develop new concepts, and to provide unique designs when the occasion demands. The monuments to the success of this endeavor include T. Roosevelt Dam in Arizona, Hoover Dam in Nevada, Grand Coulee Dam in Washington, Hungry Horse Dam and Yellowtail Dam in Montana.