Dams generally serve the primary purpose of retaining water, while other structures such as floodgates or levees (also known as dikes) are used to manage or prevent water flow into …

Dec 12, 2025 · dam, structure built across a stream, a river, or an estuary to retain water. Dams are built to provide water for human consumption, for irrigating arid and semiarid lands, or for …

6 days ago · The U.S. is home to over 92,000 dams dedicated to hydroelectric power, drinking water, and environmental protection for surrounding communities.

Oct 22, 2025 · The National Inventory of Dams (NID) documents all known dams in the United States and its territories that meet certain criteria.

Jun 21, 2024 · A dam is a structure built across a stream or river to hold water back. Dams can be used to store water, control flooding, and generate electricity.

May 30, 2025 · Dams are some of the most important and fascinating structures innovated by human civilization. They help us control water, generate energy, grow food, and protect lives.

Dec 16, 2025 · Most current dams in the United States were built in a boom of construction during the 1950’s and 1960’s, making the average dam 61 years old, according to the National …

By storing and managing water flow, dams have helped improve agriculture, urban water supply, and power generation, making them critical for economic growth and disaster prevention. …

Jun 1, 2025 · In this post, we’ll explore four primary types of dams — Embankment, Gravity, Arch, and Buttress — to understand their unique characteristics, engineering principles, and real …

Water is one of our most precious resources; our lives depend on it. Throughout the history of humankind, people have built dams to maximize use of this vital resource. Dams provide a life …