Ripshin Lake Dam Repairs Project Earns ACEC National Recognition Award for Engineering Excellence

May 19, 2026

Photo Credit: Kevin Parisi
Pictured left to right: Jason Reeves (S&ME), John Seward (Ripshin Lake Corporation), and John Weavil (S&ME) at the ACEC Engineering Awards Gala

S&ME’s Ripshin Lake Dam Repairs Project has earned a National Recognition Award from the American Council of Engineering Companies (ACEC), building on its earlier ACEC Tennessee Engineering Excellence Grand Award in the Water Resources Large Projects category.

Construction phase during embankment filling and dewatering layout prior to Hurricane Helene

Originally completed in the mid-20th century, the Ripshin Lake Dam is a 43-foot-tall earthen structure that impounds the 56-acre Ripshin Lake in Roan Mountain, Tennessee. Due to its location above nearby homes, Highway 19, and the surrounding community, the dam is classified as a High-Hazard structure, requiring modern safety upgrades to ensure long-term reliability.

Addressing Aging Infrastructure with Modern Solutions

The project evolved into a comprehensive rehabilitation effort that included:

  • Replacing the original siphon system with two new 20-inch HDPE siphon drains for improved durability and drawdown requirements
  • Repair of depression along upstream dam toe

    Constructing chimney, blanket, and toe drains to improve internal drainage and reduce seepage risks

  • Widening the dam crest and adding a stability berm to improve structural
  • Removing and replacing sections of embankment material with engineered fill to address subsurface concerns

S&ME also provided construction quality assurance (CQA) observation and testing throughout the project to ensure the design intent was achieved in the field.

Navigating Complex Conditions in Real Time

New 20-inch HDPE siphons at work

During construction, field conditions required continuous evaluation and adaptation. An approximately 100 year old pipe was embedded within the dam was addressed through targeted excavation and repair.

The project was further tested by extreme weather. During Hurricane Helene, the site received approximately 15 inches of rainfall over a two day period while construction was still underway prior to completion of embankment filling. The partially completed system successfully managed storm flows using the new siphons, pumps, and a temporary spillway constructed by the Contractor without overtopping the dam, demonstrating the resilience of the upgraded design.

“This project began as an evaluation of an existing lake siphon drain, but quickly expanded as previously unknown conditions were uncovered, including significant deterioration, a nearly 100-year-old embedded metal pipe, and unsuitable embankment materials. Close collaboration among the Engineer, Owner, and Contractor allowed the team to adapt in real time, evaluate subsurface conditions, and implement effective solutions. Despite a final test during Hurricane Helene, the dam safely conveyed storm flows without overtopping. The result is a long-term improvement that will serve the community for another 100 years. We appreciate ACEC’s recognition of this effort.” — Jason Reeves, Project Manager

Delivering Lasting Impact

Completed between September 2023 and January 2025, the Ripshin Lake Dam rehabilitation significantly improved the structure’s safety, performance, and longevity.

This work helps safeguard downstream homes, infrastructure, and the surrounding community while preserving a historic asset that continues to serve the region.