Ep 4. The El Cajon Dam
- TV-PG
- November 10, 2005
- 43 min
-
6.3 (12)
In season 3, episode 4 of Extreme Engineering, titled The El Cajon Dam, viewers are taken on a journey to the site of the El Cajon Dam in San Diego County, California. The El Cajon Dam has been in existence for over 80 years and provides a critical water supply to the surrounding area.
The episode begins by introducing the viewer to the challenges faced by cities in arid regions such as Southern California. The demand for water is high and the supply is limited, which has resulted in the need to build large dams like El Cajon to store and manage water resources.
Next, the episode dives into the history of the El Cajon Dam. Viewers learn that the dam was originally built back in the 1930s and was considered an engineering marvel at the time. The dam was built primarily using local materials, such as granite from nearby quarries, and required a massive workforce to complete.
As the episode progresses, viewers are introduced to the challenges of keeping the dam in good working condition. The show details the regular inspections and maintenance tasks required to keep the dam operational, such as checking the valves and gates to ensure they remain functional. The episode also features interviews with engineers who explain how they are able to monitor the dam and surrounding area for any signs of weakness or potential issues.
One of the most exciting parts of the episode is when the viewer is taken inside the dam itself. The show explores the various levels of the dam and shows the intricate network of pipes and valves required to control the water flow. Viewers also get a sense of the sheer size of the dam, as it stretches over a quarter of a mile across and stands 107 feet high.
Overall, the episode does an excellent job of showcasing the complexities of managing a critical piece of infrastructure like the El Cajon Dam. Viewers will come away with a greater appreciation for the importance of dams in managing our limited water resources and the incredible engineering feats required to build and maintain them.
