New spillway leads to low-flow hydropower installation

The 100-year-old spillway at the Black River Falls Hydroelectric Project badly needed improvements or replacement. We designed and managed construction for a new tainter gate spillway and small hydropower unit for the new powerhouse.

Our skillful management kept construction on schedule while administering the equipment bid for the powerhouse and spillway equipment. Our phased construction approach diverted the entire range of flows from the 1,600-square-mile watershed from one side to the other within the main channel, where the new spillway and powerhouse were also constructed. The additional hydropower is a clean energy source that powers the community’s energy grid and helps offset costs from purchasing power. Our dedication and close work with the client led to a beautiful new dam that allows for recreational opportunities for the next century.