Josef Krása

Geophysical Evaluation of the Inner Structure of a Historical Earth-Filled Dam

Small earth dams usually lack the detailed seepage monitoring system that would provide high resolution data on changes in seepage flow. Alternative solution is monitoring of the temperature and electrical resistivity in the body of the dams. Geophysical methods are useful techniques for a non-destructive exploration of the subsurface. We have utilized the combination of electrical resistivity tomography (ERT), ground penetrating radar (GPR) and multi-depth electromagnetical conductivity meter (CMD) techniques to observe the inner structure, especially internal failures, of the historical earth-filled dams. Longitudinal and transversal profiles of four typical fishpond dams in the Czech Republic were measured within this research. The dams were constructed as early as in the 15th century, some of them went through minor reconstruction. The aim of the application of geophysical methods for investigation of old fishpond dams was to detect and localize the boundary of the dam foundation, new earth material from the reconstruction works, cone of water depression, technical objects location, potential internal erosion, cavities, inhomogeneity in the water content pattern and any other anomalies. The primary results show that the ERT is suitable to observe the dam stratification, dam foundation, bedrock below the dam and large anomalies. GPR is suitable for small objects and anomalies detection in the shallow depths.

Close Range Photogrammetry and Thermal Imagery in Monitoring of Soil Moisture in Dam Structures of Historical Fishponds

Degradation of reservoir dams can lead to water percolation through dam structure. Here, close-range photogrammetry and UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle) thermal imagery can be used to monitor differences in dam moisture. The article presents a study of the dam of Podvinak Fishpond (Czech Republic). The TDR (Time Domain Reflectometry) data (soil moisture), the Theta probe data (soil moisture), and the temperature data of the dam top profile and the grassed area below the dam were compared. Analysis focused on the comparison between sampled data, and UAV data obtained by Optris TIM 450 (Portsmouth, USA) and Flir Tau2 336 (Wilsonville, USA) IR cameras. Based on the study, the spectral resolution, the accuracy of the results, and the reliability of both UAV monitoring systems is similar.

Sediment transport and water quality in Máchovo Lake (Czech Republic)

Sediment transport and water quality in Máchovo Lake (Czech Republic) Máchovo Lake is a historical reservoir founded by Czech King Charles IV. in 14th century. Located in northern part of central Bohemia it has been widely used for recreation purposes for many decades (or even centuries). Its catchments (ca 100 sq km) consist of intensively used agricultural land (ca 25% of area) and of large forested area under nature protection. Several other lakes (ponds) are chained on the two reservoirs inlets. Irrespective of its great recreation potential Máchovo Lake is one of the Bohemian lakes known for its problems with eutrophication and water quality. The project was set up to point out sources of nutrients and to search for proper solutions. Sediment loads in every lake within the catchments were measured and sampled in order to quantify the nutrients and other pollution. Point and non point sources of phosphorus and other nutrients were searched. Sediment transport within catchments was modelled using WaTEM/SEDEM model. Interestingly, the water quality in the particular ponds varies significantly even though each one of several hundred years old ponds is heavily silted. Soil erosion protection measures within catchments were proposed altogether with flood protection measures in the stream valleys and waste water treatment facilities in surrounding villages. Setting up water quality sampling devices in selected stream profiles was tested and designed. The continual proper management should lead to water quality improvement. Transport sedymentu i jakość wody w Jeziorze Mahovo (Republika Czeska) Położone w północnych Czechach Jezioro Máchovo jest zbiornikiem dla celów rekreacyjnych zbudowanym w XIV wieku przez czeskiego króla Karola IV. Jego zlewnia o powierzchni 100 km2 jest w 25% intensywnie użytkowana rolniczo, a pozostały zalesiony obszar podlega ochronie. Jakość wody i eutrofizacja wód jeziora oraz towarzyszących mu silnie zamulonych stawów stanowi poważny problem ekologiczny. Celem badan było określenie punktowych i powierzchniowych źródeł dostawy składników pokarmowych i rozwiązanie tego problemu. Do oceny dostawy sedymentu zastosowano WaTEM/SEDEM model. Została zaproponowana przeciwpowodziowa i przeciwerozyjna ochrona gleby przed erozją oraz gospodarka ściekami w obrębie zlewni. Działania te powinny doprowadzić do polepszenia jakości wody.