Rover Training and Dam Inspection

The program supports the Litani River Authority to improve the management of water resources in the Litani River Basin. In April 2010, LRBMS sponsored an underwater inspection of Qaraoun Dam to locate leaks in the upstream facing that could jeopardize the dam's stability. Several leaks were identified and consequently repaired by LRA staff with LRBMS assistance. To ensure the sustainability of the monitoring of the dam, LRBMS provided LRA with a remotely operated vehicle (ROV or rover) to routinely conduct underwater inspections. In April 2012, LRA employees were trained in the usage of the Outland 1000 Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) by SeaTrepid International LLC. The training consisted of two parts: a classroom setting where employees learned about the components, setup, and basic operation of the Outland ROV, and hands-on training of ROV operation in the water and actual inspection of the dam. The training covered various aspects of ROV operation, including setup, configuration, care and maintenance, tether management, and repair. An inspection was also performed to identify leaks between the joints on the upstream face of the dam. The condition of the joints was recorded on a diagram of the dam face, and video of the entire inspection was recorded for future reference. No leaks were found during this inspection, even in areas where leaks had been previously detected during the previous inspection in April 2010. This confirms that the repairs carried out at the end of 2010 by LRA have been very successful, and no new leaks have developed since. The LRA is now capable of conducting its own underwater inspections and is encouraged to do so on a periodic basis for LRA staff to remain familiar with the process and for the dam to be regularly monitored. The use of the ROV has enabled the LRA to improve the management of water resources in the Litani River Basin and has contributed to the sustainability of the dam's monitoring and maintenance. The success of the ROV training and inspection activity has demonstrated the effectiveness of the LRBMS program in supporting the Litani River Authority to improve the management of water resources in the Litani River Basin. The program's technical assistance has enabled the LRA to acquire the necessary skills and knowledge to conduct underwater inspections and maintain the dam's integrity. The use of the ROV has also improved the efficiency and effectiveness of the dam's monitoring and maintenance activities, contributing to the overall sustainability of the dam and the water resources in the Litani River Basin.