SERVICES PROVIDED
- Seismic hazards studies
- Geotechnical investigations
- Static and dynamic stability analysis
The Aviemore Dam is a key component of the Waitaki River Hydroelectric System, which provides more than 30 percent of New Zealand's hydroelectric generation capacity. As part of the owner's dam safety program, URS conducted a system-wide evaluation of seismic hazards for the Waitaki River system.
URS' evaluation resulted in an improved understanding of the region's tectonic regime and revealed a greater degree of activity of the Waitangi fault, which crosses the dam foundation, than previously had been known. Consequently, URS performed a comprehensive evaluation of the seismic hazard at the site and of the safety of the dam. The dam was found to comply with the New Zealand Society on Large Dams guidelines. Based on the URS study, the owner implemented a response program to minimize the risk posed by earthquakes.