Mechanics of overflow erosion on embankments. 1: Research activities

Part I of a two-part report presents model and prototype research studies which have been conducted in the United States and Great Britain to evaluate how embankments for dams, levees, roadways, etc. perform when subjected to overtopping flows from probable maximum flood (PMF) or near-PMF events. These studies provide the engineer with an understanding of the mechanics of overflow erosion through subjecting scale model and prototype embankments to overtopping flow events. The effectiveness of various protection systems in preventing overflow erosion is evaluated.