Craig Goff & Tim Hirst:
Remote Sensing and Modelling Tools for Dam Safety Management: How Satelite Data Can Help Save Lives

This session will look at how dams fail, what indicators we look to monitor to give warning of failure, and some of the more traditional methods for monitoring these indicators. We will then consider what types of remote sensing data can be used augment this, touching on UAV’s aircraft and satellites. We will then focus on satellite datasets and use as an example, the DAMSAT system to illustrate how different datasets can be used for dam safety, and presentation of risk modelling information for dam operators.. Specifically, we will look at breaching and flood spreading for consequence analysis. Finally, we will explore the use of life safety modelling use within emergency planning.

HR Wallingford is The specialist across all water-related challenges. As an independent civil engineering and environmental hydraulics organisation it's what we deliver, the world over. We create smart, resilient solutions for the natural and built environments to help the world understand the changing influence and impact of water.

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DAMSAT harnesses satellite technology to remotely monitor water and tailings dams. The system helps to reduce the risk of failure of these structures and the consequent risk to population and damage to ecosystems downstream upon which many vulnerable communities rely for both their source of water and livelihoods. Dam safety is rightly a priority for owners, the public and for governments. Catastrophic failures can devastate communities downstream of a dam, causing loss of life and long-term damage to the ecosystems people rely on for their water and their livelihoods.
To reduce the risk of these structures failing, and to reduce the consequent risk to the population, dams need to be continuously monitored using routine inspections and safety reviews.
HR Wallingford’s DAMSAT system uses satellite technology to remotely monitor water and tailings dams and other tailings storage facilities. DAMSAT provides regular intelligence to support remote monitoring of water and tailings dams. DAMSAT is tailored to the specific needs of our end users.