There are many types of water control structures; nevertheless, regardless of one’s choice, the primary purpose of these structures is to control the flow of water. These structures can either be permanent or temporary, depending on the end goal.

• Permanent – These structures must be stable and enduring. Their primary purposes are either to harvest water for agriculture, power generation, or harvesting and refining drinking water. Permanent structures can also assist in controlling flood water or heavy flow.

• Temporary – These structures are used to either provide a dry environment for working on short-term projects, hold back flood waters, and redirect the flow of dense water

The choice between permanent or temporary water control structures generally depends on the end goal. The main functions of a water control structure are:

• Allow controlled release of outlet flow
• Improve the quality of water
• Allow timely drainage to improve wetland control
• Allow precise water level control
• Reduces nutrient export
• Agriculture use such as fishing, irrigation, etc.
• General water level management
• Riparian zone control
• Wetland management
• Residential flow control and more

Common Water Control Structures And Techniques

1. Dewatering (Un-Watering)

Dewatering is a technique of draining or removing surface/groundwater. This technique is mainly applied to construction sites. It is a method that must take place before subsurface excavation takes place on things such as cellar space, shoring, building foundation, and repairs to existing water structures.

Water control structures play a huge part in the above processes because they allow work to proceed in a dry environment, which is conducive to construction. Examples include:

• Dredging
• Bridge repairs
• Shoreline restoration
• Boat ramp repairs

2. Diversion

Diversion is a technique of re-routing water to a specific location or merely forming an area where it is no longer desired. This technique is often temporary. It is a technique that may be required to prevent flooding, allowing a project to continue, control the buildup of water, and enable specific projects to begin. Examples being:

• Bridge repairs
• Flood control
• Dredging
• River flow
• Spillways

3. Damming

Damming is a very common water control structure, which creates a barrier that holds water back; often strong forces. These barriers have many uses or benefits like collecting water for storage, maintain water table levels, or preventing water from crossing safety thresholds. Examples include:

• Flood protection and control
• Dredging
• Canals
• Cold weather protection
• Bridge repairs
• Environmental protection
• Wetland protection
• Spillways and more

Which Is The Best Water Control Structure?

Even though damming is considered the best water control solution, the choice is often up to an individual and what they are looking to achieve. Experts say the best option is a cofferdam because it offers many benefits. There are many factors to consider when choosing a particular water control structure over the rest. These factors are:

• Affordability
• Practicality
• Adaptability
• Durability
• Responsibility
• Availability
• Longevity
• Expandability
• And labor requirements

For example, in a standard construction situation, a dam cannot be a viable solution for water control. However, a barrier or damming is the best solution for bridge construction. In other words, the best generally depends on the end goal.