2841 Turner Rd. Auburn, ME 04210

Dam Spillway Repair & Fish Ladder Services in New England

Ensuring Safe Water Flow & Supporting Aquatic Life

At CLH & Son, we specialize in dam spillway repair and fish ladder construction, ensuring the safe and efficient flow of water while preserving local ecosystems. Over time, dam spillways deteriorate due to erosion, sediment buildup, and structural failures, posing risks to infrastructure and the environment. Additionally, many waterways require fish ladders to support migrating fish populations. Our team provides expert solutions to repair, reinforce, and enhance water management structures across New England.

Dam Spillway Repair Services

A spillway is a critical structure that controls water discharge from a dam, preventing overflow and structural damage. When a spillway is compromised, flood risks increase, and the dam’s integrity is threatened. Our spillway repair solutions address structural weaknesses, erosion, and hydraulic inefficiencies to ensure long-term stability.

Benefits of Dam Spillway Repair Services

We offer a full range of excavation and utility services, designed to meet the needs of various industries and projects, including:

Reduces Erosion & Sediment Buildup

Strengthens the spillway against environmental wear.

Prevents Flooding & Structural Failure

Reinforces the spillway to handle high water volumes.

Restores Water Flow Efficiency

Eliminates blockages and improves discharge capacity.

Extends the Life of the Dam

Enhances durability, reducing the need for costly future repairs.

Ensures Compliance with Safety Regulations

Meets all state and federal dam safety standards.

Our Spillway Repair Process:

  1. Inspection & Damage Assessment – We analyze the spillway’s condition using advanced survey tools.

  2. Sediment & Debris Removal – Clearing buildup to restore flow capacity.

  3. Structural Reinforcement – Repairing cracks, leaks, and surface deterioration.

  4. Concrete & Grouting Repairs – Strengthening weakened areas to prevent water infiltration.

  5. Final Testing & Optimization – Ensuring proper water discharge and regulatory compliance.

Fish Ladder Design & Installation

Fish ladders, also known as fishways, help migrating fish navigate around dams and barriers, ensuring healthy aquatic populations. Many traditional dams block the natural movement of fish, disrupting ecosystems. Our custom-built fish ladders create accessible migration routes for species such as salmon, trout, and shad, promoting biodiversity and regulatory compliance.

Benefits of Fish Ladders:

  • Enhances Fish Migration & Ecosystem Health – Supports native species and aquatic diversity.

  • Reduces Fish Mortality Rates – Provides a safe route around obstacles.

  • Complies with Environmental Regulations – Meets state and federal fish passage requirements.

  • Minimizes Human Intervention – Self-sustaining designs require minimal maintenance.

  • Integrates with Existing Infrastructure – Designed to work with existing dams and waterways.

Our Fish Ladder Installation Process:

  1. Site Assessment & Species Study – Determining the best ladder type based on fish species and dam structure.

  2. Custom Design & Engineering – Creating a tailored solution to match water flow conditions.

  3. Construction & Installation – Implementing durable, fish-friendly passageways.

  4. Flow Monitoring & Adjustments – Ensuring proper operation and environmental impact assessment.


FAQ

This solution is ideal for culverts and drainage systems experiencing bottom deterioration, erosion, or reduced hydraulic efficiency.

With proper installation, this method can extend a culvert’s lifespan by 50 years or more.

No, our trenchless approach minimizes excavation, reducing costs and site disruption.

It is effective for concrete, metal, and stone culverts used in stormwater, transportation, and industrial applications.

Project timelines vary, but most installations are completed within a few days to a few weeks, depending on size and condition.

Yes, it helps prevent erosion and protects waterways by reinforcing existing structures rather than replacing them.

Yes, the smooth concrete surface reduces resistance, allowing for better hydraulic performance.

Yes, we provide structural concrete invert lining for municipalities, businesses, and private landowners.

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