Observations/Finding

As requested, the site was visited by our AS Engineering and Consulting (ASEC) representative for the purpose of providing quality control inspection and testing services.  Visual observation techniques were employed to verify compliance with project drawing/specifications, applicable codes, and materials submittals. The following observations were observed on site this day.

On the above date our representative was on site to meet with Mr. Calvin McShan of Artisan and Mr. Hugh Rountree to observe standing water conditions at north side of the lake outside the toe of the dam embankment. The current conditions observed were that all vegetation had been removed and stumps had been grinded into mulch and left in place. A few stumps were still visible at ground surface with one noticeable to be about 24″ to 30″ in diameter. At the bottom of the slope approximately twenty feet from the toe, a wet area was observed. The objective of the visit was to determine if there was a leak in the dam or if this was a ground water issue and to make recommendations for repair prior to placing additional fill to fortify existing slope conditions building to a 3:1.

Recommendations made were to re-visit the site after the lake water level had been lowered and the orifice was sealed up.

1. All existing mulch would be removed from slope embankment to observe moisture conditions of slope embankment soils to observe for saturated conditions indicating a possible leak.

2. If no possible leaks are detected test pits could be excavated at the area of standing water to determine if this is a ground water issue.

3. Recommendations can be made after visual observations.

4. It is possible that tree stumps can be left in place where they do not disturb the integrity of the in-place fill.

5. If it is ground water issues, it may be necessary to install a french drain.

The writer also picked up two proctor samples from onsite stockpiled materials to perform moisture-density relationships (proctors).

Note: The inside slope embankment will require some repairs filling in eroded areas.

We appreciate the opportunity to be of service to you on this project. If you have any questions regarding this report, please feel free to contact us. We will be more than happy to discuss it with you.

Wet area at toe of slope

grade stack showing fill amount

View of lake

Outside slope embankment looking west with mulch covering

Cut fill stake

Outside slope embankment looking east with mulch covering

Looking from east to west full length