The Role of Microorganisms in Elevating the Turbidity of Dam Seepage Water

Abstract

Studies at one of the earthen dams of the Volga – Kama cascade of dams revealed an elevated removal of suspended particles in seepage water, resembling the process of mechanical erosion. Comprehensive studies show that active microbiological processes occur in dam bodies. Elevated turbidity of seepage water was caused by microbiological processes. Microorganisms are also capable of adversely affecting the physical and mechanical properties of soil and promote the risk of reducing the stability of hydraulic engineering installations. In this regard, there is a need to develop a method to study the extent of microbiological process hazard and to incorporate it into regulatory documents.