Strengthening Argonaut

Innovative Rescue of Argonaut Dam Mitigates Toxic Risk for Community

In 2015, it was discovered that the Argonaut Dam near Jackson, CA was at risk of potential catastrophic failure that could result in over $100 million in damage and possible loss of life. With additional toxic substance leakage risks, The California Department of Toxic Substance Control stepped in and tackled its first dam remediation project.

Given the sensitivity of these hazards and fragility of an unstable dam, there were limited solutions. Lightweight Cellular Concrete provided quick strength and security without overbearing mass, an important factor given the 100-year-old dam could easily collapse and cause a toxic mudslide in the city center’s direction.

These remarkable risks were mitigated by an innovative application of Lightweight Cellular Concrete. The Superfund remediation project was successfully completed in December of 2018. 

2018 Project of the Year - ASCE-Sacramento, Mining Section

This air-filled and pump-able cement solution provided quick strength and security without overbearing mass, an important factor given the 100-year-old dam could easily collapse and cause a toxic mudslide in the city center’s direction.

ABOVE - Jackson, CA: A fluid cement solution is strengthening a vulnerable dam .