The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) is exploring new methods to address sediment build-up in lakes and reservoirs caused by dams. Currently managing and operating 419 dams and reservoirs, USACE is facing the challenge of sediment accumulation reducing water capacity. To combat this issue, researchers are looking into water injection dredging, a method that injects large volumes of water into sediment to allow it to flow into another area. The team is constructing a larger dredge that can create a density current inside a reservoir and out through the dam. The Tuttle Creek Lake in Kansas has been selected as the first pilot project for water injection dredging.
The Tuttle Creek Lake pilot project aims to reduce the volume of sediment in the lake and find a less expensive alternative to traditional dredging. By injecting water into the sediment, a density current will be created, transporting the material from an old river channel towards the dam. This marks the first time water injection dredging technology will be used in a lake, and the success of the project will provide valuable information and potential applications for other USACE lakes and reservoirs. The team is also looking into the downstream environmental effects of sediment release to ensure sustainable sediment management strategies.
Moving towards sustainable sediment management strategies, researchers are evaluating potential downstream effects of sediment releases. The study will assess the physical habitat, water quality, and potential impacts on downstream organisms. Understanding the relationship between ecological and physical processes will help inform decision-making for USACE. The project is a collaborative effort across disciplines and agencies, aiming to learn from the effects of water injection dredging in habitats downstream of Tuttle Creek. While water injection dredging may not be suitable for all reservoirs or lakes, it offers a viable option for addressing sediment build-up and preventing the reallocation of water storage capacity to sediment storage. It is crucial to assess different solutions tailored to specific lakes and take action accordingly.
