Where:
Norris Dam
When:
Thursday, April 11, 2024
Registration Fee:
$125 - Transportation to and from included with registration. All field trip participants must ride the transportation provided by ASDSO.
Description:
Constructed by the Tennessee Valley Authority between 1933 and 1936 on the Clinch River northwest of Knoxville, Norris Dam has a total length of 1,860 feet, a maximum height of 265 feet, and consists of a concrete gravity structure with a short earth embankment section on the right (east) abutment. Primary purposes are hydroelectric power generation, flood control, and flow augmentation for navigation on the Tennessee River, with secondary purposes of recreation, water supply, and aquatic ecology. Originally known as the Cove Creek site, the project location has a long history. Initially considered by private entities and later investigated by the Corps of Engineers, the dam and appurtenances were ultimately designed by the Bureau of Reclamation before becoming the first of more than 40 river dam projects completed by the TVA on March 4, 1936. Because of the underlying carbonate bedrock, extensive foundation treatment (including consolidation grouting, cutoff grouting, and mining of tunnels to excavate clay seams) was required to address solutioning and related defects. In advance of a field trip to the dam, this presentation will cover the history of the Norris Project - including planning, design, and construction. Additionally, how a dam in Tennessee came to be named for a senator from Nebraska, the influence of TVA architect Roland A. Wank, and role of Norris Dam in the Manhattan Project during World War 2 will also be discussed.
Schedule:
- 7:30 am - 8:00 am: Check-In
- 8:00 am - 8:45 am: Classroom Presentation
- Flagship of the TVA: Norris Dam - Walker, Scott R; Tennessee Valley Authority.
- 8:45 am - 1:00 pm: Field Trip to Norris Dam *Return time is Estimated
PPE:
Hard hat, safety glasses, and hearing protection will be required for this trip. TVA will supply PPE, but if you prefer, you may bring your own.
Dress Code:
The field trip dress code requires long pants (no skirts/dresses) and sturdy closed-toe / closed-heel shoes (no high heels, Crocks, sandals, etc.) Tennis shoes/sneakers are recommended. Remember to plan for the weather as needed and consider brining a jacket/coat/umbrella.
Background Checks:
Background checks will be required for this trip. Registrants will need to confirm US citizenship and provide their full name, date of birth, and driver's license number/state.
