News Release Archive

Reclamation Awards $3.6M Contract to Paul Reed Construction Supply, Inc. for Safety Work at Box Butte Dam

Media Contact: Tyler Johnson, (406) 247-7609, tjohnson@usbr.gov

For Release: April 10, 2017

BILLINGS, Mont. -- The Bureau of Reclamation has awarded a $3,617,708.10 contract to Paul Reed Construction Supply, Inc. out of Gering, Neb., for Toe Drain Modification work at Box Butte Dam. Box Butte Dam is located approximately 30 miles northwest of Alliance, Neb., in Dawes County.

The need for modification of Box Butte Dam became apparent following visual observations of elevated levels of seepage, soft foundation conditions, and material being transported through the toe drains in the summer 2011.

"Once discovered, fixing the issue related to the toe drain became a priority so that Box Butte Dam can continue operating safely and reliably," said Great Plains Regional Director, Mike Ryan. "The earthen dam was constructed between 1941 and 1946 and, regardless of age, we are going to make sure it continues to operate on behalf of the American taxpayer."

The work to be performed includes: removal and control of water from excavation; excavation of the existing dam embankment; abandoning existing toe drain pipes by connecting to new filter/drain system; furnishing and laying new toe drain pipes; furnishing and placing filter material around existing outlet works; furnishing and placing zoned earthfill materials to reconstruct dam embankment; and wetland mitigation development.

All work must be completed no later than October 23, 2018, however, it is too early to know the contractor's planned schedule for this work.

Box Butte Dam, which is situated along the Niobrara River, is used for both irrigation and recreation.

For more information, contact Tyler Johnson, 406-247-7609, or tjohnson@usbr.gov.

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