Potworks Dam Repairs Could Restore Storage of 800 Million Gallons

Utilities Minister Melford Nicholas says the government has received an engineering plan to repair a decades-old leak at Potworks Dam, a project that could restore approximately 800 million gallons of water-storage capacity.

Nicholas said Cuban engineers completed a technical assessment of the dam and submitted their report, dated Aug. 17, outlining the work needed to repair the southern spillway.

He made the disclosure Tuesday night during the government’s “Taking Stock” radio programme, describing it as breaking news because he had not yet presented the report to Cabinet.

According to Nicholas, the leak has affected the dam for about 25 years and prevented it from reaching its full storage capacity.

“I discovered that there was a 25-year leak on the southern spillway, which meant that the dam could never really be filled,” Nicholas said.

He explained that seepage beneath the original spillway caused erosion of the underlying soil, eventually weakening the additional structure built above it.

“The spillway is leaking because there was seepage underneath the original spillway that was done, which caused the built-up spillway to falter because the soil from underneath was eroded,” he said.

The Cuban engineers have provided technical drawings and engineering recommendations, but the government must now determine the cost of carrying out the repairs.

Nicholas said he wants the project approached urgently so the work can be completed before Antigua and Barbuda receives significant rainfall.

Repairing the spillway could allow Potworks Dam to retain an estimated additional 800 million gallons of water, he said.

Potworks Dam covers approximately 320 acres and can hold about two billion gallons when filled. Nicholas said its deepest section is estimated at between 22 and 24 feet, while shallower areas are about 14 feet deep.

At a depletion rate of approximately one million gallons daily, the dam could provide a significant supply of water, although evaporation must also be considered.

Nicholas said not all water overflowing from Potworks is lost to the sea. The dam has two spillways, and water passing through one is directed toward other dams in the Collins area, where it can also be collected.

The government is also considering additional water-catchment projects as it works to improve the country’s resilience during prolonged dry periods.

This article was originally published by Antigua News Room. Read the original article here: Engineering Plan Submitted to Repair Potworks Dam Leak.